Veiled Secrets and Looming Shadows of Enlightenment

Obviously, this feeling was something that Stefan was anticipating. He immediately realised what it was trying to convey. Taking a decision silently, he swore to himself that this book must contain some unknown secrets and that it should eventually end up in Tylor's hands.. However, since this isn't in his fate, he might as well let Tylor get it, as that would be more plausible for his future actions.

Concerning the decision he just made, there is a possibility that Tylor might become an ally. Observing how much eager Tylor is regarding the book, he might be aware of something.

While Stefan was pondering the reason behind Tylor's eager anticipation towards this book, the magician interrupted him and asked, "Do you have any idea about what exactly enlightenment is?"

Stefan looked blankly towards the magician that is Jack. Jack sighed and started to explain,

"Enlightenment" refers to a profound and deep understanding or realization achieved by individuals on their path to spiritual or martial cultivation", said Jack.

After a pause, he continued, "Enlightenment is not just about gaining physical strength or mastering martial arts techniques, but it's also about reaching in depth understanding of the world, the self, and the nature of existence. This understanding often comes through profound experiences, insights, or moments of clarity that occur during the rigorous training process."

"Enlightenment can encompass a wide range of understanding of all, including the interconnectedness of all things, the impermanence of life, the pursuit of balance and harmony, and the transcendence of worldly desires", explained Jack.

Stefan interrupted Jack by asking, "Is this, by any chance, beneficial to us in any way?"

"What do you mean?" Jack was thinking if he had not explained it thoroughly.

Oblivious to the fact, Stefan asked in a much more simple manner, "What do I gain from this enlightenment?"

Jack was surprised by Stefan's abrupt question, however since he is explaining it, he might as well answer his question, "Individuals who achieve enlightenment may gain access to hidden powers, unlock new methods of cultivating themselves, or even attain spiritual powers."

Stefan spoke after observing that Jack had nothing more to say in this matter, "I see. So, Overall, enlightenment signifies not only mastery over their physical and spiritual selves but also a deep and profound understanding of the universe and their place within it."

"That's right! My friend. So, what you just released was the breath of enlightenment. In case if you were thinking of somebody when you gained this enlightenment and that individual happened to be around you, both of you will benefit greatly from it." said Jack enthusiastically.

"Then this enlightenment is surely amazing since it is so beneficial to us", exclaimed Tylor.

Jack cautioned, "It surely is a good thing, however, every good thing must have its limitations. Attaining enlightenment isn't a simple feat. Countless individuals never encounter the chance to gain enlightenment throughout their entire lives. Therefore, it's necessary to be discreet about the aura, and you must keep this aura within you unless you find a remote place to release it."

"But, what happens if the aura leaks out in front of a large group of individuals because I was not able to store it in my body due to its large amount?", asked Tylor curiously. 

Actually, Tylor already knew the consequences of such thing. However, he still asked this question, acting as if his curiosity was piqued because he wanted Stefan to be aware of this. If he had told the consequences, Stefan and Jack both would have been suspicious of this information and about its source.

Coupling with the fact that Stefan knew he was smaller than him in age, would have contributed to the suspiciousness. Obviously, he cannot just tell them that this is his second life, so he needed to exercise caution when dealing with such things. However, if he wants, he will let Stefan 'unintentionally' come into contact with 'someone' who knows a thing or two about it.

"They will be hunted, captured, enslaved and tortured by the institute. Although this still is a rumour, we have to remember that rumours aren't born without any basis. There must be something wrong with the institute for it to gain such rumour" said Jack seriously.

'An institute? Wasn't it an organization? In my previous life, when I investigated the missing cases, obviously it was all related to the organization. After digging much deeper, I realised that this organization has a history of more than a thousand years. The person who killed me was the vice leader of that organization. Additionally, I also came to know that many influential sects have been in cahoots with them for a long time and the reason behind their sudden growth is related to this organization.' thought Tylor.

"Can you tell me more about this? In case, I need to be cautious when dealing with them", Stefan implied.

"Sure, however don't tell anyone that this information was given to you by me", while saying this, Jack made a circle in the air that shone with golden light and pushed it towards a spot.

Stefan and Tylor watched as the circle expanded and circled them like a halo.

Their attention was diverted only when Jack continued, "This is an anti-spying array. The reason it only took me some time to make it because my friend gave me this partially finished array so that it can be used when necessary".

Both Tylor and Stefan had a look of understanding.

Jack continued, "The Institute of Ascendant Torment - a name that evokes chilling terror, where those who attain enlightenment are ensnared, subjected to torment, and pursued relentlessly in the pursuit of unlocking the secrets of enlightenment."

"Since this institute has such a horrific name, why would students enrol in it? Isn't it obvious that there might be something wrong with it?", questioned Stefan.

"Off course, they know it. But, do you really think those people would just sit back as their reputation worsens?"

"Then, does it mean that they take some measures that blindfold the public from the actual situation?"