Aethercross-Real Game，The Borderland of Reality and Fantasy

Chapter 24: Aethercross World

Sky, catching up to Echo who was leading the way, queried through the mesmerizing cityscape of Aethercross World, amid a kaleidoscope of people. Magicians draped in flowing robes engaged in conversations with mech-armored warriors, and anciently garbed swordsmen strode alongside youths exuding a cyberpunk aura.

"Are all these folks actual players?" Sky asked, catching up with Echo. The city's liveliness rivaled that of a bustling metropolis in the real world. If these were genuine players, the headcount here alone would eclipse several hundred thousand. This city was just a small segment of the vast expanse of Aethercross World. The thought of the sheer number of players inhabiting the entire world was staggering.

The possibility of such a massive player base shuttling between the real and Aethercross worlds without causing a real-world uproar seemed far-fetched.

Echo addressed Sky's doubts, "No, most here are the original denizens of Aethercross World."

"Original denizens? Like NPCs in games?"

Echo shook his head. "Remember the novice trial in the replica world? Did the people there strike you as mere programmed NPCs?"

Reflecting on his ordeal in the dystopian environment of Satellite City No. 14, Sky shook his head. "No, they weren't mere game NPCs. They were tangible, living souls." He stressed 'souls', recalling his soul power awakening during the trial's climactic moment – an experience that deeply resonated with him.

"Living souls?" Echo's smile grew even more radiant. "Precisely. Hence, we players commonly refer to them as the natives. Let's sit and delve deeper into this."

Entering what seemed like a restaurant, they pushed open massive bronze doors, revealing a decor blending medieval and cyberpunk elements. The great hall, constructed from enormous stone bricks, had a medieval castle feel, while the ceiling's pipework added a futuristic touch. Oriental wooden screens artistically divided the space, and flying gadgets busily delivered exotic meals and drinks, served by robotic waiters on sleek, modern tables.

Settling in a secluded nook, Echo ordered a fruit-flavored beer-like beverage and a barbecue platter for two.

"This one's on you," Echo said, savoring his drink. He motioned to the platter, "Try this. It's a local delicacy, unlike anything on Earth. Feast away, and let's unravel the mysteries of the Aethercross World together."

Sky, feeling a hollow in his stomach, sampled the fare and was pleasantly surprised at how it appealed to his palate.

Echo, with a gentle smile, watched Sky hungrily devour his meal. She began to unfold the mysteries of the Aethercross World. "To be honest, I don't have extensive knowledge about the Aethercross World. It all started three months ago with a sudden countdown, and next thing I knew, I was transported here.

My initial adventure was in a fantastical world of magic and swords. Following the system's guidance, I hunted some goblins to complete the trial, which led me to the City of Stars. This city, though it seems just a city, is in fact the epicenter of all the known void worlds and is continually expanding.