Chapter 1: The Gathering Storm

**Day 9 since the start of the black fog's invasion** 

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The days that followed the emergency meeting at Area 51 were filled with tension and uncertainty. The United World Council is still trying to grapple on with the implications of the expanding black fog in the Atlantic Ocean.

"Any progress, Elder?" Commander John promptly asked. 

"Hmmm, I wouldn't say progress, but the remnants of these ancients' texts are quite similar to the Aztec Ruins and some parts belonged to the Maya civilization." Elder Xing responded quite uncertain. 

"Those ancient civilizations? Is there really possibility of it being helpful in our current predicament?" Commander John directly asks for the main point. 

"15% Commander, these ancient glyphs and tablets require to work precision with the best Archaeologists in the world, without them it will be harder for the team to carry out this task." Dr. Wilson responded this time. 

"Especially these weird location writings and rituals, there's also an image of somewhat like the black fog in here, perhaps." Elder Xing lamented. 

"Hiring the best Archaeologists is not a problem, I will recommend someone to you at the end of this week. Keep up with the task first while monitoring the black fog's progress." 

"Yes Commander", everyone replied at the same time. 

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**Day 17 since the start of the black fog's invasion** 

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At Area 51, Commander John and his team worked tirelessly to analyze the data gathered from various monitoring stations around the fog's perimeter. Dr. Wilson, with other renown Archaeologists collaborated closely with Elder Xing and his granddaughter, Little Fu, pouring over ancient texts and historical records that hinted at similar phenomena in ages past.

"Well, I'm sure there are some results this time, right Elder?" Commander John asked in curiosity. 

"For sure, all of their efforts are just a waste. We're wasting both money and time here, Commander John! This needs to be addressed with our country's latest nanotechnology, in collaboration with the National Institute of Robotics and Technology in Japan, rather than believing in some scrappy texts from old times," Ellington jested.

"It seems that you want to die early Ms. Ellington. Didn't we already finish this useless bicker of yours last time. If you keep on distracting the progress of this project, we will fire you out and replace with another competitive person." Commander John replied sternly. 

"I— I just want to face this world crisis with technology! This is the reality Commander John, no magic, no sorcery, no rituals exist! Only crazy fanatics like that old fool out there believes in them. I— 

But before she can continue, Elder Xing suddenly took out a tablet with golden patterns and hues that makes someone mesmerize for just a single look. 

"Magic or whatnot you call them exist, isn't this the best proof here?" Elder Xing commented. 

"Is that the final product Elder?" Commander John asked. 

"Not yet, but once we transcribe this one in text, we can put it into use. Together with the team, we're able to find a common mechanism between Aztec and Maya, which is the runic language." 

"I can explain more about it, Commander John." Dr. Wilson hurriedly replied. 

"Based on the data we've gathered and deciphered this is the 70% result of it: 

『 "Runic Language and Its Connection to Ancient Civilizations - The Runic Language"

The runic language is an ancient system of writing that uses symbols, or runes, to convey meanings, often associated with magic and mystical powers. Each rune holds a specific significance and can be combined with others to create spells or incantations. The runic language is not just a method of communication but a means to harness and channel energy, often used in rituals and protection spells.

Historical Connections: Nordic Influence

The runic language is most commonly associated with the Norse and Germanic tribes of Northern Europe. The Elder Futhark, the oldest form of runic script, dates back to the 2nd century AD and was used for inscriptions, rituals, and communication. These runes were believed to possess magical properties, providing protection, strength, and foresight.

Aztec and Maya Civilizations

Though the runic language originates from Northern Europe, its mystical aspects resonate with the ancient civilizations of the Aztecs and the Maya. These Mesoamerican cultures had their own systems of writing and magic, with symbols and glyphs that held significant power.

Aztecs: The Aztec civilization used pictographs and ideograms in their writing system, which were often connected to their deities and rituals. They believed in the power of symbols to invoke the gods and alter reality.

Maya: The Maya civilization had a highly sophisticated writing system, known as hieroglyphs, which combined logograms and syllabic signs. These glyphs were used in their sacred texts, monuments, and rituals, believed to be imbued with divine power.

The concept of using symbols to convey magical power and protection is a common thread between these ancient cultures.

Deciphering the Codes

Deciphering the runic language involves understanding the individual meanings of each rune and how they combine to form potent incantations. Here are some steps to decipher and use runic codes:

Identify the Runes: Begin by recognizing the individual runes in the inscription. Each rune corresponds to a letter or sound and has a specific meaning. For example:

Fehu (ᚠ): Wealth, prosperity Uruz (ᚢ): Strength, health Thurisaz (ᚦ): Protection, conflict

Translate the Message: Once the runes are identified, translate them into a coherent message. This involves not just a literal translation but understanding the context and the intended magical effect.

Combine for Effect: Runes can be combined in specific sequences to amplify their power. For instance, combining Fehu and Uruz might be used in a spell for health and prosperity.

Ritual Application: Apply the translated runes in a ritualistic manner. This could involve carving the runes onto objects, chanting them in a specific order, or drawing them in sacred spaces.

Channel the Energy: Focus your intention and energy through the runes. The belief and concentration of the practitioner are crucial in activating the runic magic.

Example of Usage Against the Black Fog

To temporarily fight the black fog, we could use a combination of protective and purifying runes. For instance:

Algiz (ᛉ): Protection, shielding Sowilo (ᛋ): Sun, purification Eihwaz (ᛇ): Defense, resilience

They might inscribe these runes on stones, create a protective circle, or chant them in unison to form a barrier against the encroaching darkness.

Conclusion

The runic language, with its deep roots in ancient European traditions, shares a mystical resonance with the symbol-based magic of the Aztec and Maya civilizations. By understanding and harnessing the power of runes, the Tarot children can create temporary defenses against the supernatural threats they face, tapping into a wellspring of ancient wisdom and magic. 』

"This is an amazing discovery Dr. Wilson!" Commander John happily replied. 

"That's not yet the 100%, we still need to have people to draw those runic language and infuse it with the ancient rituals to make it work properly." Elder Xing added. 

"But you have already gotten forward to the next plan, Elder Xing?" Commander John replied with a smirk.

"Of course, brat, who do you think us for? Give us 5 more days, I hope this would last before the black fog will start to show its movement again." 

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**Day 22 since the start of the black fog's invasion** 

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In a secure laboratory deep within the base, Dr. Wilson and his team meticulously prepared the artifacts and scrolls written in runic language. 

Elder Xing cleared his throat before speaking. "I suggested everyone before that we can try using magic, I'm many of you are skeptical and think I'm crazy like that old woman sitting over there."

Then everyone's head turn to Ms. Ellington, making her more embarrassed than the previous dispute. 

"Ahem- now I'm suggesting we explore every avenue available to us. Desperate times call for desperate measures, ladies and gents I present to you our fruits and labor: the R-XWA -1" 

Every high ranking and important personnel in the meeting room was given a tablet documenting the summary of the runic language, up to the way on how to use it. 

"Will this really work?"

"Yeah, it seems like it's a final paper for thesis" 

"Is this really the result Elder?" 

"What about —

As everyone was a bit frantic of the information they were given, Commander John began to assure everyone's concern. 

"That's why take a look at the monitor, everyone eyes here." 

"Commander, I don't want to die yet but I will try my best" Dr. Wilson commented. 

"Folks, now we will test the waters of this endless possibilities, shall we?" Commander John spoke confidently. 

Next Chapter: The Theory Vs. The Theorists