Ixion was gleeful as he left the baffled Andrea behind in favor of returning to his chambers, despite the sun not having completed even half its journey through the sky.
The day was young, but Ixion was ready to retire.
Once he reached the chamber door, Sebastian opened it for him and closed it behind him, leaving him alone in the expansive bedroom.
'Ah…'
This sort of happening was routine for Ixion — stowing himself away in his chambers all day, that is.
Or at least appearing to.
Ixion pulled back the canopy veil, then jumped forward, sprawled out on his bed, and looked up toward the heavens blocked from view.
Due to his elevated constitution, he didn't need to eat or do much of anything to stay alive, and with his chancellors all sedulously doing his job for him, he hadn't the need to even leave his room, lest he felt obliged.
Ixion held his hand up and willed his Aether to gather at his fingertips.
As for what Aether was…
Aether was the underlying elemental principle by which the world was governed. Every living being possessed Aether within them to varying degrees. It was the natural, primordial substance that provided a connection between the soul and the body, and between the body and the world.
Through awakening, one could tap into, grow, and control Aether, which would build a stronger connection between the three and gave them an ability based on their Soul's Cry.
There were three types of existences, two of which could awaken: Aether Constructs, which could awaken; Insensate Constructs, which couldn't awaken; and Flesh Constructs, which could awaken.
Human, which was what Ixion was, was a Flesh Construct.
As for the significance…
It was harder for a Flesh Construct to follow the path of ascension; it was even harder for a Flesh Construct to beware and bear their soul, and their bodies withered over time. There were also some advantages, like a stronger tie to the world.
Aether Constructs were overall superior, but had their own drawbacks.
Not that Ixion cared to ruminate on something other than himself…
Ixion's Aspect, Soul Winder, his essential ability, gave him an innate connection with his soul and the ability to sense and read others. And then he had Traits which enhanced his Aspects' powers; all of which he unlocked as he climbed the arduous path of ascension.
In any case…
Ixion had a Trait called [Astral Projection], which allowed his soul to leave his body behind at will and travel as far as his connection allowed. Plus, he could enter others and potentially override and pilot their bodies.
With his Rank, Boundless, and Class, Seraph, his limit was insanely far, roughly 1,069 kilometers.
"Zabaniyah, protect my body."
Ixion smiled as his hand slumped to the side and his perspective swapped.
His view began to drift up toward the heavens until he took a look back and saw his own sleeping form.
'Gods, I am so handsome!'