This new life of Axel's had brought him more sorrow than joy thus far. He had been duped by the old man, though he'd narrowly escaped his clutches.
Then came the issue of soul rejection, leaving him paralyzed and born into a family that despised him. By all appearances, he would likely face continued family issues in the future as well.
But now he chose to focus on the one good thing in this world: the magical elements. To experience the power and magic contained within these fundamental building blocks of energy - the source of all wonder in this world. He was certain that with sufficient power, he could rise above others' rules and restrictions.
This was his opportunity to truly build and grow - not in the conventional sense, but in the most profound way imaginable. With enough power, he might even achieve immortality like the other mighty beings of this mysterious universe.
Every step he took, every effort he made, was an investment in his future. Nothing would go to waste. These convictions had taken root in Axel's mind, and the scientist within him was thrilled at the possibilities ahead.
When Axel asked Gizmo about his elemental affinities, the question carried far greater significance than it appeared.
[It seems we're finally making progress. Axel, as you may have guessed, your soul shows the strongest inclination toward the light element. This was precisely why the old man took interest in you - light is exceptionally rare, and your affinity for it is remarkably high.]
[To be more precise, your light affinity isn't merely strong - it's distinctly unusual.]
Axel found this revelation surprising. In his previous life, he'd been overly sensitive to light since childhood, always preferring darkened rooms. How could he possibly have an affinity for it now?
'Gizmo, please explain more. What exactly makes my affinity peculiar?'
[I can't identify the exact nature myself, as I have no records of anything comparable. But essentially, your soul appears capable of influencing the light element directly.]
[This is unprecedented - known elements don't exhibit such behaviour. Unless... No, that seems impossible. Regardless, that summarizes your light affinity. There's more: through the Blair family lineage, you've also inherited thunder affinity.]
[While your thunder affinity isn't as extraordinary, it's still considerably strong by normal standards - potentially surpassing even your ancestors'. So this too deserves serious consideration.]
[However, I must advise focusing on just one element initially. True advancement in this world comes to those who dedicate themselves to mastering a single path.]
Axel felt pleased with his talents, though their full potential would only become clear with time. For now, he was content with his discoveries and prepared to embrace five years of scholarly pursuit in his otherwise limited existence.
'I agree, Gizmo. I can't divide my attention too much, but perhaps I can find an efficient solution. Wastefulness goes against my nature,' Axel concluded.
A smile spread across Axel's young face at Gizmo's revelations. Yet due to the paralysis affecting his right side, the expression took on a slightly unsettling quality.
Note(Axel's current appearance):
His hair is dark, though it had a softer sheen to it—almost like silk in the dim light. It falls in gentle waves over his forehead, slightly longer than it would be today, giving him a sweet, innocent look.
His eyes are a striking shade of deep amber or honey gold, bright and alert, filled with questions about everything he sees. These eyes, so vivid and expressive, seem to take in every shadow, every flicker of light.
His skin is smooth and unblemished. His amber eyes sparkled with dreams and stories waiting to unfold.