《The Writer of Magic》


 Calestros Wooden Spoon

    Where am I? I know I felt sleepy when I got home. But it wasn''t this breezy, nor was it this bright. There was a sweet smell wafting through the air, like lemon zest. There were even birds singing calmly. I wish I could sleep like this forever.


    Then an unfamiliar buzz of a crowd annoyed me, and the voices of... teenagers? Why do I hear them in my room?


    "Just leave him. Entrants who have abyssmal grades like him won''t get inside the Academia anyways." An irritable voice seems to criticize me, so I grouchly opened my eyes. Only to find myself overseeing a clear blue sky, and an over the top academy with clear windows and the symbol of the Libra Constellation.


    ''I must be dead.'' I thought to myself.


    "Last five minutes before we close the gates!" The student called, her voice amplified by the megaphone. She looked really familiar... Hair red as the setting sun, and eyes blue like the sky. I then caught myself under her gaze and she frowned.


    "Hey wooden spoon! You''re gonna get written up again!" She called and I staggered. Wooden spoon?


    I then found out my hands weren''t mine at all. It was filled with unknown callouses, I never handled things that made my hands like this.


    ''What in the world is this?!'' I asked myself. When I began to think that, a huge blue square appeared in front of me.


    ''Sub-Quest! Cross the School Gate!''


    Clearing Condition: Be on time for the Assessment by going inside the school!


    Clear Rewards: EXP and Skill: ''Inspection'' and Access to ''System''.


    Failure: -50 Academy Reputation


    ''Yep... definetly going crazy.'' I laughed nervously.


    "3 minutes!" She called again and I cursed under my breath and made a break for it. Once I crossed the gates, a golden screen then appeared before me.


    ''Sub-Quest Cleared!''


    ''You have leveled up!!''''You have learned "Inspection" and have been granted access to the System Menu.''


    "System?" I asked and a screen appears infront of me. I then realized where I was by the name of my title:


    Name: Yman Caliesto


    Level: 2Weapon Proficiency: None


    Class: EntrantAcademy Ranking: 900th


    Title: Calastro''s Worst Entrant


    "What in the name of fresh hell?" I said, Calastro... That''s the school I made on a whim when I was writing that Fantasy Novel I never finished back when I was a college student!


    Pridesworn. That was what my friend suggested when I was first starting off my writing dream.


    It was a story about a group of academy students who solve problem after problem, which starts in the school up until the whole continent. The only problem is... I didn''t continue writing it. Since I lost the master script of my novel, I fell into a stump until I completely decided to put it an indefinite hiatus. Until I completely forgotten about it... until today.


    "This must be a joke." I whispered to myself.


    To make matters worse, the character I''m playing... I haven''t named anyone ''Yman Caliesto''. So who are you?!


    I head over the fountain and inspected myself. Hair dark as ebony, eyes blood red, and complexion was fair but scratched up. I transmigrated in my discontinued novel as an extra!!


    "Not only are you a wooden spoon, you''re also insane." A girl''s voice said, sending shivers down my spine. I looked behind and saw piercing green eyes looking down at me, her blond hair was tied to a ponytail and was glistening in the sunlight. I vaguely remember her character... Then I remembered the skill I obtained.


    ''Inspection''


    A display then appeared before my eyes, it read:


    -Due to a high level difference, skills and talents have been rendered hidden-


    Name: Claire Venus


    Level: 4


    Weapon Proficiency: Polearms


    Class: Entrant (Possible Route: Lancer)


    Academy Ranking: 4th


    Title: Prodigy of the Spear''s Path


    "Why are you staring at me? Are you possibly a pervert too?" Claire looked flabbergasted and I narrowed my eyes. Sure, she has the looks I mean, her family is the Venus Line. But she isn''t my type.


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    "Sorry." I said blandly and she rolls her eyes.


    "It''s my mistake for ever striking a conversation with a wooden spoon like you. I hope you''re ready to be expelled." Claire said in a haughty manner and strides off toward the large building, which I assume is the gymnasium.


    I pondered on what she said, and then I remembered. Calastro Academy has a cruel yet effective education system. Those below the 800th rank will be eliminated. And as it stands, I was at the bottom rung. I will be cleaved if I don''t do anything.


    ''But why should I do anything? I''m just an NPC, an extra. I won''t have an impact in this story!'' I told myself, and that was when I realized that saying things like this means I''m tempting fate. Because once I thought of that sentence, a golden quest screen appeared:


    ''Main Story Quest!I AM NOT JUST A SIDE CHARACTER!!''


    Clearing Condition: Rank up in the Academy Standings to avoid expulsion!! Be at least the 800th Ranked Student. There will be bonus rewards for every hundreth rank jump.


    Initial Reward: EXP, New Title, and Talent:''Late Bloomer''


    Failure: Expulsion from the Academy


    And I feel like a ton of bricks just fell on my shoulders. How the heck can I rank up if the assessment is today?!


    "Hey, did you hear? This assessment will be a team exercise. Those who gets first place will automatically be placed in the Top Spots." The students walking towards the gym said. And I perked up, that''s a great way to motivate the students.


    Except I know that the Hero and his team will always be ranked one. My luck is just playing tricks on me.


    Tobias King, or ''Toby'' to his friends. I created him from the ideal heroes cliche. Likable, strong, wise, and has a string sense of justice. He had soft brown curly hair, fair complexion, and sea blue eyes. He is a consistent Rank 1 student, and was every teachers favorite.


    "Guess I should just get over there." I sighed and ran towards the Gym.


    It was jam packed with students carrying swords, bows, shields, hammers, axes, claymores, staves, and even guns. Yep, this is a futuristic setting if I ever see one. I wonder what possessed me for writing this?


    "Hey, is that him? The Wooden Spoon?" A student asked and all eyes were now on me. They were all giving me conceited looks.


    "Man, we''re finally going to be rid of him. His last assessment, he used a gun. You just point and shoot right? Yet he failed that too..." A marksman said and they were all laughing.


    "That means he is a master of none. Heh, look, he''s going for the weapon''s rack." They were still looking at me once I reached the Hall of Armory.


    The Hall is lined with Academy Weapons, basic things that offer basic stat boosts. The problem is, according to my profile... I have yet to find a weapon that is compatible with me. But now... I have a skill to determine if I am compatible with it.


    ''Inspection.''


    I first looked at the Swords:


    -Item Appraised!-


    Academic Steel


    Type: Sword


    Bonus Stat: Strength


    Compatibility Rate: E


    Then at the Polearms:


    -Item Appraised!-


    Academic Javelin


    Type: Polearm


    Bonus Stat: Strength and Aim


    Compatibility Rate: E


    Then at the Bows:


    -Item Appraised!-


    Academic Sling


    Type: Bow


    Bonus Stat: Agility and Aim


    Compatibility Rate: E


    I appraised every weapon rack. And found out I was incompatible with every mainstream weapon.


    ''I am so screwed.'' I told myself.


    "Entrant! You''re the only one left!! Hurry up!!" An instructor barked at me and I looked at her pitifully. None of these weapons were compatible with me. I was about to give up when something caught my eye. It was a rack of Magic Catalysts. Dolls, Paper, Crystal Balls, even Books. I took a deep breath and head over there and activated:


    ''Inspection.''


    -Items Appraised!-


    Name: Academic Puppet/Academic Astrolabe/Academic Sheets/Academic Grimoire


    Type: Catalyst


    Bonus Stat: Mind and Intellect


    Compatibility Rate: B/B/B/B


    "ENTRANT!" The instructor barked again and I cursed under my breath and just took the Grimoire.


    A screen then appeared before me yet again:


    -Hidden Quest Cleared!-


    -You have leveled up!--You have been bestowed the Title of: The Path of the Spellcaster-


    -You have now access to Beginner Magic of:<u>Script of Water</u>/<u>Script of Wind</u>/<u>Script of Light</u>-


    "What? Did he just... came out with a book?" The students looked at me and they all laughed. But the instructor narrowed her eyes at me.


    "This is your last chance to prove everyone wrong kid. Get to the board, your team has been decided." She said and I obliged.


    I head for the large screen in the center of the gym, and my name is listed with the Male Lead, Second Lead and the best friend of the female lead:


    "Tobias King, Claire Venus, and Lheon Khalid. You will be paired with the last placer." The Headmaster said and I could tell, Lheon and Claire didn''t like the idea. But Tobias walked up towards me and gave me a reassuring smile.


    "Hey there, Yman Caliesto, right?" He asked.


    "Y-yeah. I''m in your care." I bowed politely and Tobias grinned widely, Lheon sighs and Claire rolls her eyes again.


    Off to a great start I suppose.

 Extend Gate

    ''Inspection''


    -Due to a high level difference, skills and talents have been rendered hidden-


    Name: Tobias King


    Level: 6


    Weapon Proficincy: Swords, Daggers, Claymores


    Class: Entrant (Possible growth to Swordsman)


    Academy Ranking: 1


    Title: Voyager of Destiny


    ''Voyager of Destiny'' the title of the Hero who is destined to save the world. I made him like that because he reminds me so much of my idol back in reality.


    He was a very charismatic and gentle person to boot, only the villains I made are the ones who hate his guts.


    Then I turned my gaze to the Second Male Lead:


    ''Inspection.''


    -Due to a high level difference, skills and talents have been rendered hidden-


    Name: Lheon Khalid


    Level: 6


    Weapon Proficiency: Firearms


    Class: Entrant (Possible growth to Marksman)


    Academy Ranking: 3


    Title: Dusk of the Barrel


    Lheon Khalid, the third son of the Khalid family and an excellent marksman. He has soft silver hair, praire green eyes, and an expression that appears apathetic but he is actually a very expressive person.


    I wrote him as a cold person towards strangers and enemies, but a warm individual towards his companions. He is also the voice of reason for Toby. As well as his greatest advisor in his journey.


    Toby smiled at us as we approached the Warp Gate for our Assessment.


    "Okay team, let''s get over the plan! Uh... Leo, what''s the plan again?" Toby asked his best friend and he massaged his temples.


    "This assessment, we''re going to be hunting a C-Class Monster, and our destination seems to be a Desert. I''m only speculating, but our target might be an Emperor Scorpion." Leo briefed and I applaud his rational mind. He knows the topography of our mission already and has an open ended suggestion.


    "So, here''s the plan. Toby, you should use a Claymore. That way, you can bust the hard exoskeleton. Claire, you take up a commando role. Try poking the soft bellies and make sure to stay clear of their large pincers and equally large stinger. As for me and the Wooden spoon, we''ll provide rear back-up." Lheon just pointed me as if I was deadweight, but I just acknowledged it.


    We entered the gate but, Lheon pulled me aside.


    "You better pull your weight kid. Otherwise, you''ll get more than expulsion." He threatened me with his piercing green glare. And I can only nod.


    Clutching my grimoire, which I strapped to my side, I entered the warp gate. And as my eyes adjusted, I was greeted with an arid air and sandy foothold. This is one heck of a simulation.


    Just then another screen appears in front of me:


    -Sub-Quest! Water you Waiting for?-


    Clear Conditions: Clear the Assessment by defeating the target with a Water Spell.


    Clear Rewards: EXP, Title, Talent: ''Hydropathy''


    Failure: None


    Okay this is new... A quest that involves me using a spell. So that means, I am a mage or something. I then opened up my system and read the available skills:


    -Script of Water-


    Allows the spellcaster to create water out of formless energy. Recite words that symbolizes the power of water.


    -Script of Wind-


    Allows the spellcaster to generate wind out of formless energy. Recite words that symbolizes the power of wind.


    -Script of Light-


    Allows the spellcaster to weave light out of formless energy. Recite words that symbolizes the power of light.


    Okay this system is vague as hell. How the heck can I use my magic?!


    "Come on, since it''s midday, scorpion species tend to hide deep in caverns to cool off." Lheon said.


    We head out, the three had no problem navigating the desert environment, but for me. I was having a bit of a hard time catching up, but I didn''t want to slow them down, so I trailed behind them.


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    The scorching sun was beating down on us, my sweat drenching my forehead and my back. All I see is sand and more sand. And it was getting unbearable.


    "How much time has passed?" Claire asked when we decided to seek shelter in a rock formation. It had a protuding black crevice and the cliff was surprisingly sharp.


    "Not much. We''ll still be in the lead." Lheon said confidently.


    I collapsed on the sand, my breathing was uneven and my feet would be screaming in pain if they have mouths. Why is this body so useless?


    "You okay there?" Tobias approached me with a slapstick grin on his face.


    "G-give me a minute." I heaved. My sweat dropping down the ground like bullets.


    "We don''t have that luxury." Lheon told me and they began to head out again to the desert.


    But I stared at the ground, why is the sweat drop still lingering and hasn''t been absorbed by the sand? Unless...


    I looked at the crevice of the ''rocks'', they look seemingly alive. No strike that... They ARE alive. And it''s twitching in the wind.


    "Guys? You better stop now before you step on something." I told them.


    "Step on what?" Tobias asked and sure enough, when his left foot hit the sand, it made a loud thud. Like stone in an exoskeleton. Then the stones began to rumble and sink. The stinger of the target erupted and tried to impale Tobias, fortunately, he was quick on his feet and avoided an embarrassing end.


    "Weapons ready now!" Lheon barked and he pulled out his rifle as Tobias pulls me behind him.


    The Emperor Scorpion surfaces and unleashes a ghastly shriek, its pure ebony body glistening in the desert sun. But the three of them are unfazed.


    "What now Leo?" Tobias asked as he summons a claymore from his sub-space.


    "Stick to the plan. Now!" Lheon said as Claire proepls herself to the air, her spear poised to strike from above. When she landed, it pierced the hard exoskeleton like it was nothing. It shrieked again and flailed around wildly, Causing her to dismount from the monster''s back.


    Tobias followed up by slashing one of its legs like it was made out of butter. Green liquid was splashing around violently.


    "Hey, if you''re just standing there like an idiot, get out of the way!" Lheon pulled me down and fires a bullet infused with pyroclastic material. The bullet bursts and engulfs the scorpion into an inferno, but... It just turned the flame into an armor.


    "Why isn''t this thing dying?!" Claire asked, and she and Tobias can''t close because of the flames. tt then sent them flying with a whip of it''s now burning tail. Claire and Tobias were suffering from burns, but they were still standing.


    "B-but the intel said that Scorpions are weak against fire." Lheon was taken aback for once.


    I wondered, why didn''t fire work. Then I remembered and activated:


    ''Inspection!''


    -Due to a high level difference, skills and traits have been rendered hidden-


    Desert Emperor Scorpion


    Battle Rank: C


    Level: 7


    Weakness: Water


    Water?! Wait... My sub-quest. But... I don''t know how to use my magic. It just said, say something related to water. Like what?


    Then something appeared, like a piece from my memories when I started my writing career, my friend always say:


    "Spellcasters are better than most mages. They can create their own magic using their imagination alone. I like them because they''re so original."


    It was a gamble, but it''s all I got. I took a deep breath, and opened my Grimoire. Particles of blue energy began to gather around me and an orb begins to spiral from the pages. I then recited an incantation with a shout:


    "Raging cascades: Aqua Edge!"


    I closed my book with one hand and the energy orb dissipates. Then in front of me, azure blades made out of water billows forth towards the Scorpion, dousing it and removing the fiery exoskeleton, making it extremely brittle.


    The others were looking at me with surprise. And Lheon was the first to recover.


    "Hey! Can you make a sigil?" He shouts as he loads on another bullet.


    I gave him a nod and focused water energy again from my book. I then punched the air with that energy and made it stationary, like a gate made out of water.


    "Energy''s at max capacity!" I called towards Lheon and he steps behind the gate and aims.


    "Full throttle!" Lheon shouts and pulls the trigger. But instead of a bullet, a beam of pressurized water blasts forth. Engulfing the Scorpion whole and defeating it.


    "W-we won?" I asked and then a screen appeared:


    -Sub-Quest cleared!-


    You have leveled up!


    You have leveled up!


    Title: "Speaker of Water" received.


    Talent: ''Hydropathy'' received.


    I then checked my newly received talent:


    -Hydropathy-


    Water Spells that hit allies will now heal them.


    Tobias, Lheon, Claire and I were relieved as the simulation ended, and we''re back to the empty gym. So we were the first ones back.


    "You okay Toby?" Lheon asked and Tobias gave him a brave smile.


    "Just a bit burnt, other than that I''m fine." He said, but he kept wincing.


    Claire isn''t doing too good, her arms were suffering from extreme sunburn and now actual burns.


    "I... Maybe I can do something about your injuries." I offered and they all looked at me. I didn''t wait for their reply and just channeled the spell:


    "Oh spirits of harmony, purify our ailments: Recover!"


    I directed it first to Claire, who was engulfed by a fresh blast of cooling energy. Sure enough her wounds closed up and her burns... were all gone. Her expression was that of relief and happiness.


    I then repeat the same to Tobias and Lheon, and both of them felt actually relieved.


    "Thanks Yman, that was great to see." Tobias said.


    "Your magic... It felt different from what other mages use." Claire notes and I laughed nervously. Spellcasters are pretty rare in my novel after all. Since Mages here don''t use incantations and just rely on the element their staff has.


    "Still... That last Water Magic of yours. I couldn''t believe a Unison Art would manifest." Lheon pondered and gave me a warm smile. "Looks like I made a wrong assessment of you."


    "I''ll say, you pulled your weight there... Y-Yman." Claire stuttered when saying my name. "Sorry, I''m just not used to say your name."


    "It''s fine. I''m not used to it either." I admit, whoever named this body must be laughing really hard.


    "Hey, Yman. Wanna hang out after school?" Tobias asked and I was taken aback. Hang out? Back when I was in reality, I sacrificed my social life for writing. Now... I am living inside my discontinued novel, and who knows if I can go back or not.


    But I don''t want to live the same way as before. This time, I want to try it. Have a social life, even if I am an introverted person.


    "Sure... Tobias." I smiled.


    "Call me Toby." He said and we shook hands.


    Maybe things will be different around here. And to be truthful, even though I never finished the novel, that means, the events in my knowledge can only get me far. And who knows, the tory must''ve changed at some point.


    And for once, I''m not scared.

 Supreme Authority

    The Assessment Exams ended when the last students came back battered and bruised. There were medical teams on stand-by so those who were grievously wounded were transferred immediately.


    The Headmaster, Mr. Valkyris, stands in front of us and looks at the results. He then gave a hearty laugh that made everyone flinch.


    Headmaster Ivar Valkyris. I wrote him as the same troupe as any other elderly characters. Wise, fun, extremely vague with the answers, and extremely powerful.


    "Announcing the Top Ten Entrants who will now advance to Class A indefinetely. Regardless of their previous ranking. And to make you believe the results yourselves, please look at the screen as we recorded the Battle data! Ranked 1, Tobias King!"


    The video shows off Toby hacking the Scorpion''s legs like butter with a claymore, his icy stare was cool and enamouring for everyone. Toby on the other hand, was a bit embarassed because of his facial expression when green blood splashed all over him. His face was brick red while standing in the podium.


    "Ranked 2, Lheon Khalid!"


    The feed switches to Leo, who pulled me aside to shoot at the scorpion''s eyes, and then when he shot that beam of water towards the scorpion. A collective gasp of admiration went towards Leo as he proudly presents himself in front of the crowd.


    "Ranked 3, Claire Venus!"


    The feed switches to Claire''s aerial mobility and her elegance in aerodyanmic combat. The guys cheered as she brandished her spear with finesse. Everyone also applauded her sky assault, her landing was easily the highlights of that feed. Claire proudly walks to the stage, and she smiled calmly at the cheering crowd.


    "Ranked 4, Yman Caliesto!"


    Silence filled the whole room, then an uproar of protests clammored. But the Headmaster snapped his fingers and the feed changed.


    It showed me casting Magic effectively, as well as creating the Extend Gate for Leo to fire at. It then showed me healing my teammates when we were outside the simulations. My teammates beckoned me to head in front. The other students were still not convinced about my skills but decided to keep quiet.


    -Main Quest Cleared!-


    -You have leveled up-


    -You have leveled up-


    -Proficiency with Grimoires ascends to Rank A-


    -Proficiency in Water Magic ascends to Rank C-


    -Title: Not just a Side Character-


    -Talent: ''Late Bloomer'' obtained-


    -Due to a huge Rank Leap, the reward has been converted to a Unique Talent-


    -Talent: ''Spell Charge'' obtained-


    My mind was already swirling from the surreal experience so I turned off the window for now and focused on the rankings again.


    "Ranked 5, Charles Aspersa!"


    I froze. Charles?! I looked at him and sure enough I knew, he was Toby''s shadow. The Final Boss.


    ''Inspection!''


    -Due to similarities in Level, Skills, and Talents have been revealed.-


    Name: Charles Aspersa


    Level: 7


    Weapon Proficiency: Swords


    Class: Entrant (Possible route Swordsman)


    Academy Ranking: 5


    Title: Scion of the Dark''s Bane


    Skills: Midnight Phantom, Severing Wind


    Talents: Supreme Authority


    ''Yep... I made this guy op for absoluetely no reason.'' I want to slap my 18 year old self. Why did I give the final boss an OP talent at the start of the story?!


    -Supreme Authority-


    Grants the weilder a strength boost when facing a foe with a higher level.


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    Charles stood beside me, and he towered over us. His silver gray hair and ruby red eyes stands out even amidst the sea of faces.


    His feed shows him dominating a Dullahan, a Rank-C phantom class monster. His Academy sword piercing the armor like it was nothing, probably the effects of Supreme Authority. But I didn''t think about it a lot. Charles was giving our group a glare, his eyes fell on me and he I heard him click his tongue.


    ''Rude...'' I thought to myself as the Headmaster read through all the remaining ranked 10.


    When the whole ordeal was over, Leo and Toby pulled me aside, Claire also made sure our route outside was clear. They led me towards the grounds and all four of us were breathing heavily.


    "That was some escape plan Leo." Toby laughed as Leo takes a breather at a nearby bench.


    "You know the drill. Once you get to the rankings, the others will hound you until you come into terms with their begging." Leo said. And we all laughed.


    "Still... I''m surprised you pulled your weight there Yman. Why didn''t you use the Book when you first started out?" Claire asked.


    What I say might affect my relationship with them. So... I told them the truth:


    "I... was forbidden to use it." I said. That''s not even a lie, Spellcasters are so rare, that only a handful of families use them. And that''s an easy story to spin.


    The three of them understood about that situation and Leo pats my shoulder.


    "Sorry about being too harsh before." He said, his eyes sincere and filled with sympathy.


    "M-me too... I was taught to never judge a book by its cover, but I guess I still have much to learn." Claire sighs.


    "Hey... Guys it''s okay. I''m not mad." I said and they all sighed with relief.


    "So you''re another bleeding heart." A new voice sent a chill down my spine. I turned around and I was face to face with Charles. His blood red eyes were penetrating my own.


    "What do you want?" Toby got in between us, his face was unreal without his usual smile.


    "I''m talking to the wooden spoon here, King. So beat it." Charles said, sizing up our whole group.


    "What do you want?" I asked as I beckoned Toby to back off for a bit. Charles then let out an amused sound.


    "You''re not scared? That''s good. Then I request a duel." He said and a screen appeared before me:


    -Character Quest: Aspersa''s Challenge-


    Clear Condition: Force Charles Aspersa to admit your strength in combat.


    Rewards: Academy Reputation +50, EXP, and Invocation: ''Script of Darkness'', and Talent: ''Spellthief''.


    Failure: Reputation with Aspersa Clan -50, and Title.


    "What?" I was taken aback, why me? And this quest is pure bull crap. Why would I want to have any ties with the main Villain?!


    "I''ve yet to fight with a Mage like you. Plus, Tobias and his posse seem to regard you with high expectations. So, fight me. I won''t take no for an answer." He said as he activates ''Supreme Authority''. We have the same level so it won''t work on me. But Charles is a swordsman, on par with Toby, so if I were to accept his challenge, it would be a like accepting and signing a free death sentence and cremation ceremony.


    "That''s completely unfair, Yman is a magic user. Against you, it''s like letting a child fight a war." Leo intervenes but Charles shakes his head.


    "I''ve already requested the venue. Unless, you want to make an enemy of the entire Aspersa family. Accept the challenge, Caliesto." Charles threatened me, but when he said my last name, it had so much venom that even I began to question who Yman Caliesto really is? Yet, I shivered like a rabbit in front of a wolf. No scratch that, a rabbit in between a wolf, a lion, and a tiger. And an Eagle somewhere at the sky, ready to unsheath her talons.


    "I accept." I said reluctantly, earning the concerned looks of my friends and a smile from Charles, who pats my shoulder.


    "Stadium 2, tomorrow noon. Don''t be late." He said, his shadow trailing behind him and seems to be engulfing me.


    Once Charles is out of earshot, Leo and Claire pounced at me.


    "Are you insane?!" They both screamed at my ear and I shuddered.


    "What else was I suppose to do then?" I asked. And Toby just reassures me.


    "What''s done is done. All you have to do is give it your all, you got this Yman." He smiled and I nod. "Great! Now, let''s go back to the dorms and change. I''m feeling generous so we''ll grab a bite out to the Shack!"


    Dorms? I cursed... Yman Caliesto is just a minor character, so I have no clue where this guy''s room was.


    "Hey Yman, you coming?" Toby asked, his eyebrows arching with concern.


    "I... uh... forgot where I''m staying at." I laughed nervously and all of them sighed and grabbed me by the wrist. All four of us were heading for the Boy''s Dormitory, the big Silver building near the training complex. While the Girl''s Dorm, was the neighboring Gold Building near the Cafeteria Complex.


    We sped through towards the dorms, talk with the landlord, Omar, who was a dwarf with flaiming red hair and beard, and he just looks at the sheet of paper.


    "Yman Caliesto''s room assignment is floor 3, room 8." Omar said with a bored expression. "So Caliesto survives another day huh? Pity, I was about to take you in if you''ve failed. I am in need of a kid who can man the counter."


    "Floor 3? Eh, you''ll be transferred to the 5th floor in no time. Meet us back here Yman." Claire winked and heads onward to the Girl''s dorms.


    "Thanks Omar, but Yman is going to be busy from today onwards. Come on dude, it''s dinner time and I am starving!" Toby laughed as Omar gave a faint smile on his bushy lips and jokingly told us to get lost.


    After minutes in the shower, I changed to a more comfortable set of clothing, I don''t know what the deal was, but Yman and I have the same taste in clothing. A black dress shirt and white pants, paired with leather boots.


    When I got down, Leo was already waiting. And he looked pissed.


    "Finally, where''s Toby?" He asked and I shrugged.


    A few minutes later, Toby barrels down from the staircase, his forehead sweaty and his grin was taking up his face.


    "We''re getting our weapons next week!" He exclaimed.


    "Wait, what? Really?!" Leo''s usual cool demeanor melted instantly.


    "And that''s good news because?" I asked and they both nod at each other.


    "That means... No more lectures Yman! We''ll be cadets instead of entrants now!" Toby said and the doors swung open, and revealed an extremely annoyed Claire.


    "I have been waiting for you three idiots... FOR THIRTY MINUTES!" She screams and we followed her out towards the cafeteria.


    And suddenly, my fight with Charles tommorow doesn''t bother me. Right now, I''m enjoying the time with Toby, Leo, and Claire.


    But who knew that night will be filled with dread more than the fight with Charles Aspersa tomorrow.

 Flashing Fang

    That night, the four of us enjoyed the festivities of passing the Assessment as the Top students. Many students were asking Toby, Claire, or Leo for tips on how to improve in their various fields. But what''s more surprising, is that there are some magic users talking with me.


    "H-hey... Woo- I mean... Yman Caliesto, right?" A guy with lightning yellow hair and ornage eyes approached me, his smile is a bit forced but he doesn''t seem like a bad guy.


    "Yeah, what''s up?" I asked politely and he bows his head.


    "I''m really sorry!" He apologized so abruptly, even I was taken aback.


    "H-hey... There''s no need for you to apologize." I said, this situation is embarrassing me.


    "R-really? Well, I''m Arthur by the way. Arthur McGillan!" He said and shakes my hand.


    McGillan? As in... the Adopted brother of the Female Lead, Lucy McGillan? Arthur was his name... When I wrote Lucy''s character, I didn''t her adopted brother died while she was on her arms. Which awakened her true power as a Ranger. In short, I''m talking to a sacrificial character.


    ''Inspection!''


    -No further information available, despite the Level Difference-


    Name: Arthur McGillan


    Level: 5


    Weapon Proficiency: Fists


    Class: Entrant (Possible route to Brawler)


    Academy Ranking: 119th (Previously 190th)


    Title: Neophyte of the Fists


    Talent: ''Armor Crusher''


    So he''s a close quarter entrant, and by the looks of it, he can be useful when dealing with hard armored enemies.


    So how on earth did this guy die? I didn''t get to explain it in the main story because I was suppose to leave it out when Toby and Lucy were supposed to be lost during a duo mission. But then silly me misplaced the original manuscript and I didn''t have a copy of it.


    But seeing how cheerful Arthur is, I guess he really has an impact on Lucy''s life, especially saving the lives of others.


    ''A compassionate and loyal woman who strives to protect her loved ones.'' That is how I made Lucy. And how she and Claire became best friends. Losing Arthur meant she knows the weight of losing someone so close.


    "Nice to meet you Arthur." I said and shook his hand. Arthur was so glad that I forgave him or something, because he sat down beside me and talked incessantly. Mainly about how he can crush White Iron with a single blow.


    "But doesn''t that hurt?" I asked him and he gave me a proud grin.


    "These puppies have yet to let me down." He flexed his muscles and just realized how much of an impact this will affect Lucy. Arthur was her source of annoyance and her first sun. Right before she met Toby.


    "Hey, Arthur? You have a sister right?" I asked, better late than never to know if he really is Lucy''s adopted brother.


    "I do... but she''s with her friends." He said, a flash of sadness played across his face momentarily.


    "I see... Hey, let me introduce you to my teammates." I offered and his face became pink.


    "W-what? Y-you mean with Tobias King, Lheon Khalid, and Ms. Claire Venus?" And I think I became acquainted with a simp. An MC Squad simp...


    "Hang on... Why is Claire the only one with honorifics?" Toby, Leo, and Claire suddenly came from my back and shocking Arthur to high heaven.


    "I-I-I''M SO SORRY SIR TOBIAS, I WASN''T BEING TOO INFORMAL." Arthur said shrilly and I could tell, Toby had a very mischievous side of him, and that''s teasing flustered people.


    "Toby that''s enough." Leo said and turns to Arthur and extends his hand and shakes Arthur''s. "Lheon Khalid. Call me Leo."


    "Hehe, sorry kid. Tobias King, call me Toby!" Toby also shakes Arthur''s hand, rather a bit violently.


    "I''m Claire Venus. Nice to meet you Arthur." Claire said, but she was a bit indifferent. But... Didn''t she and Lucy meet already?


    "Y-yes... Nice to meet you too Ms. Claire, sir Leo." Arthur said weakly, I feel like he''s about to faint.


    "I''m going to get a drink, you guys in?" I asked and their eyes perked up.


    "Sure Yman, we should celebrate! Since we''re getting our-" Toby was about to say we''re about to get our weapons when Leo suddenly covers his mouth and Claire coming in clutch:


    "Getting our drinks! We''re really thirsty, so... Can we request you to get us some? I''ll get the Peppermint Special."


    "The Red Robin for me." Leo pipes in and Toby''s eyes perked up as he was released from Leo''s grip:


    "I''ll take Summer Night, thanks a bunch Yman!"


    "W-wait, I''ll come with you!" Arthur said and I happily accept. The kid''s a welcoming company that''s for sure, but I can''t shake the feeling. Does he really need to die in order to set the path for Lucy?


    I shake my head and try to stay positive. Maybe I misread my own novel. Yeah let''s go with that. But like I always tell myself: Don''t tempt fate:


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    ''Character Quest: The Heart and the Fist''


    Clear Conditions: Protect Arthur McGillan from the Assault while using the Script of Light.


    Clear Rewards: EXP, Title, Talent: ''Holistic Blessing'' , Skill: ''Script of Lightning'' and ''Script of Fire''


    Failure: -1000 Academy Reputation, -100 Reputation from the McGillan, King, Venus, and Khalid Families.


    What in the name of hell?! The failure conditions are completely stacked up to murder me! Basically, I''m screwed if Arthur dies. But... ''The Assault?''


    Then an explosion occurs just as I remembered what it meant. But before any debris hits me, Arthur, and anyone within a meter of me:


    "Torrents Bring Refuge!"


    A wall of cascading but soothing water screens everyone from harm. I glared from the windowsill, and sure enough... Experimented Beasts, or Chimeras, were pouring in the cafeteria. Three turtle heads with ebony shells, three wolf heads with crimson fur, and one Lion head with a silver mane.


    "Yman, what are those things?" Arthur panicked, so did the other students. And not gonna lie, I was also shaking.


    The Turtle Heads glared at our direction and they snarled, or snapped... or whatever sound turtles make when they''re angry and charged towards us.


    -Inspection!-


    Name: Ebonshell Chimera


    Level: 7


    Weakness: Light and Fire


    Note: Their hard Shells absorb Magic


    Of course... The quest system really does know how to give useful hints on what to use. But I have a problem... Their shells are capable of absorbing magic.


    "Shit... Arthur, watch out!" I yelled and grabbed Arthur''s collar as the Turtles barrel through the counter.


    "Yman... what are they? They look like beasts but... I though Calestro Academy won''t have any beasts because of the barrier put up?!" Arthur stammered. But I can''t reveal it just yet. I need more evidence if I want to prevent an even greater tragedy.


    "Arthur, can you fight?" I asked him and he looked at me with a huge concern face.


    "What? Shouldn''t we wait for the seniors and evacuate?" Arthur panicked, but I took out my grimoire and proceed in a battle stance.


    "I''m not the only one whose thinking of waiting for the Seniors. Plus, if we can distract them long enough, then we can keep the damage to a minimum." I said, and right on cue, three bullets suddenly shot from our backs, and I imbued it with Light energy, it pierced two of the turtles'' heads, but the third one managed to block it with its large arms. The two turtles were staggering yet they still lived, the bullets didn''t dig too deep I suppose.


    "Yman! You good?" Leo asked as he reloads again. His head was bleeding and he can only use one of his eyes.


    "Yeah... I am, where are Toby and Claire?" I asked, but not taking my eyes off the turtle.


    "Taking care of the wolves, only they can keep up with their speed." Leo cussed, clearly it made him bite his pride as a marksman, but I''ll give him effort points for seeing his limits. "What are they Yman? They don''t look like any beasts in the Beastpedia?"


    "They''re artificial... And I don''t want to use my magic at these turtles all at once, those shells... I don''t think my magic can break them." I said while hiding my ability to inspect. Not because I don''t trust Leo, but I think someone else might be watching.


    "Got it... Should we try that Water Beam again?" Leo asked and I shook my head.


    "We might hit the unconscious students." I warned and he cursed his oversight.


    "Yman... I want to help." Arthur said from my back and he was wearing his academy bracers, he was still shaking from his feet but his face was filled with determination.


    I admire his bravery, but couldn''t help but tease him a little bit:


    "You really want to fight despite shaking to your boots?"


    "S-shut up! Your magic can''t even touch them!" Arthur flared and I laughed.


    "Don''t worry... Once we get rid of those shells, then we''ll be able to do whatever to them." I reassured him.


    "Those shells look hard... I don''t think my bullets will be enough to pierce them." Leo cursed under his breath.


    "Leave it to me. If you give me the signal, I''ll pull through." Arthur said as he runs for the second floor. I have to hand it to him, he needs momentum to deliver a precise and devastating blow.


    "Got it. Leo, let''s try and distract the turtles." I said and Leo nods and fires a pot shot at the turtles. They made their noise again and charges towards us.


    ''Light and Fire magic can hurt them... but Magic is useless on them unless I break their shells. But Leo''s bullets were imbued with light energy.''


    "Yman stop day dreaming and focus!" Leo''s voice snapped me out from my overthinking, and I barely dodged the barreling of the turtles, despite their size, they were a bit fast and could hit hard.


    "S-sorry..." and I mentally slapped myself. This is no time to be overthinking. I don''t want to hit their shells, so I just have to take away their sight.


    "Leo, Arthur! Close your eyes!" I called out and I was hoping they did as I recite the incantation:


    "Light, shine down! Photon Flash!!"


    A blinding light erupted from the faces of the turtles, and all three of them were staggering and stumbling backwards. Their arms covering their eyes and they were wailing in pain.


    "Arthur, now!" Leo shouts as he reloads his gun. Just then, Arthur comes from above:


    "Armor won''t save you!"


    Arthur''s fist made a resounding sound when it connected with the shells of uninjured turtle, smashing the shell to smithereens.


    "Nice one Arthur!" I said and fired off a sword made out of light from my grimoire. Easily evaporating the chimera. One down, two to go.


    "Holy crap that actually worked." Arthur exclaimed as he comes closer to me and Leo.


    "Dang, doesn''t your fist hurt after that?" Leo asked.


    "Nope, I feel fine. Now that the element of surprise is gone, only two turtles left!" Arthur said, and he wasn''t shaking from fear anymore.


    "I have an idea. But I need you to trust me on this Arthur." I said and Arthur nods.


    "What do you want me to do?" He asked, I smirked and he shuddered.


    "Y-Yman... why do you have that creepy smile?" He shivered.


    "Let''s do a Unison Strike." I said and Leo understood and steps forward.


    "I can give you at least a few minutes. Whatever you''re planning Yman, better make it count." He said as he strafes on the Turtles.


    "Yman... dude, I trust you and all. But..." Arthur began but I gave him a reassuring smile.


    "My magic won''t hurt you. Don''t worry, I''ll be imbuing your whole body with Light Elemental Magic." I told him and he nods.


    "Okay. I trust you." He said and offers his fist, and we did a fist bump. This is it.


    "Leo, stand back!" We called and Leo fires a smokescreen for the both of us. Now!


    "Demons Descend!" I cast the spell and it envelops Arthur in pure light as he propels himself towards the Turtles.


    "Coming through!" Arthur''s fist collides with both Turtles and a blast of light envelops around them, melting the turtles into non-existence.


    Three down, four more chimeras to go. But as we turn towards the wolves, a scream cuts our moment of victory.


    "LUCY!" Arthur called as the Lion Chimera was closing in on Lucy McGillan. And he gets in between her and the beasts claws.


    SLASH!


    "ARTHUR!!"

 Destiny Editor

    Blood stained the pavement and the walls, a wail in the night under the blanket of flames. Lucy McGillan, crying out her brother''s name, pleading him to wake up. Her hands shaking and wet with the life essence of her brother, who was slowly sinking in the depths of the abyss of death.


    That was the scenario I''ve written for Lucy''s backstory. Now, seeing it in person... I felt sick so bad I vomitted. Arthur, puts his life at risk to protect his beloved step sister. He, an adopted child of the McGillan family, a family whom he loved even though he wasn''t given much attention. Yet he still protected his sister...


    This is my fault... Why did I write this kind of backstory?! This is too cruel.


    "Yman snap out of it!" Leo''s voice snapped me out of the trance. His Academy Rifle fired a loud band and the bullet detonated against the lion chimera.


    "Arthur! Stay with me, stay with me please!" Lucy''s cries was piercing the night, and not even Leo''s bullets are getting the attention of the Chimera.


    "Light shine through and banish the darkness." I whispered the incantation and rushed forward. Light energy was radiating from my fist instead of the book.


    "Yman!" Leo warned but he was too late when I slide in between chimera and the siblings, and I unleashed the spell to the face of the Chimera.


    "DIVINE STREAK!"


    A beam of pure light engulfs the head of the Chimera, cleaving its head off clean. But I didn''t celebrate, no one did. Only the cries of the wounded and the greiving were audible. I gave Leo a signal to help Toby and Claire, and he nods, but his expression was concerning. When he joined the fray, the battle was finally over, and the seniors and staff members were now coming. Assessing the damage and helping those in need.


    I looked over at Arthur''s dying state, he was still... smiling. That generous, unwavering, and brave smile.


    "L-Lucy? Are... are you crying? Who hurt you?" He coughed and Lucy held her brother''s hands.


    "Arthur? I''m here... We''ll get you help... Stay with me please." Lucy said.


    I knelt down at Arthur and he looked at me, his eyes were happy... and he was still smiling.


    "Was I... cool, Yman?" He asked me and I grit my teeth.


    "Shut up and live, then we''ll talk more about that." I snapped at him and tried to heal him with Water Magic. But the wound was deep, and I don''t have enough experience to heal wounds like this.


    "Hey... Can I ask you for a favor?" Arthur began and I know where this is going. "Take care of Lucy for me..."


    "Arthur what are you saying?! You''re not going to die, please Arthur!" Lucy wailed and I almost lost my focus. It''s true... Arthur''s fate was to die while being cradled by Lucy. It was... the fate I wrote as the author of this unfinished book.


    "I said shut up and stay alive." I told him, but my voice was already cracking. I knew this was an impossible ordeal. But what am I doing? I sealed his fate. I''m to blame for his untimely death.


    "Yman... please." Arthur said and I snapped:


    "ARE YOU REALLY GOING TO LEAVE LUCY ALONE LIKE THIS?! DIDN''T YOU WANT TO STAND SIDE BY SIDE WITH TOBY AND THE OTHERS?"


    With everyone silent in the grounds, everyone''s attention was on me.


    "Tell me Arthur. Do you really want to die here? Because I can end your pain; right here, right now." I asked him, and Lucy glared at me.


    "What are you saying?!" Lucy tried to defend Arthur from me, but Claire and Toby appeared and held her back.


    "Claire let me go! That bastard, he''s going to kill Arthur!" She screamed, but Claire was giving me the look that says:


    ''If you have a plan, do it.''


    "Answer me, Arthur McGillan." I said, my expression was cold and unforgiving and Arthur''s usual smile evaporated, and was replaced with tears, sadness, and desperation.


    "I don''t want to die... I want to live Yman." Arthur coughed and I nod. Then a screen appeared before me:


    ''Hidden Quest Cleared: Defier of Fate''


    Obtained the Skill -Destiny Editor-


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    -Destiny Editor-


    An Unknown Edit Skill that allows user ''Yman Caliesto'' to re-write the fates of those who want his help.


    Perfect timing to give me an Edit Skill huh? Well, whatever... If it''s for the sake of redeeming myself as a scummy author, so be it.


    "Toby, Claire. I''ll be right back." I smiled at them and activated ''Destiny Editor''.


    A sphere of light envelops me and Arthur, and everyone''s voices faded.


    The light dies down and I was transported to an unfamiliar space. The background was sparkiling with numerous spheres of light. When I touched the spheres, they revealed Arthur McGillan''s memories.


    Memories of training, teasing Lucy and always being there to protect her. Even the time when he spent studying just to be in Calestro Academy in order to be recognized more than just the adopted son of the McGillans.


    As this novel''s author... I should''ve paid more attention to their lives. I created this world because of impulse, completely disregarding them as nothing more but ink on paper. But now... I''m living in this world as one of its character. I still have hopes to return to reality, but still... I have to make amends. But suddenly, a booming voice resounds all around me:


    "A mortal overstepping his dismal authority? How quaint."


    I watched on as a Pillar of Flame erupts in front of me, the searing winds and blistering heat was making it difficult to see. When the flames died out, I was now looking at a visage that takes on the form of Arthur, the only difference is that his golden hair was replaced by flame orange hair, and his eyes were dark as pitch.


    "Who are you? You''re not Arthur!" I called it out and it nods.


    "I am only imitating the visage of the owner of this body. I am an Incorruptus. His dream, his soul. His Identity made sentience." It said. "Now, what is your purpose inside my host''s body?"


    "If I tell you that I wish to save him, will you stop me?" I asked.


    "That is not the destiny written for him by our primordial lord. Do not interfere in his grand canvas, boy." The incorruptus firmly said and it assumes a fighting stance.


    Fine... If that''s how you want to play it.


    -Inspection!-


    ''Due to a high level difference, some information are rendered unviewable.''


    Name: Incorruptus Ira


    Level: 30


    Class: Monk


    Weakness: Light


    A level 30 Monk, on top of that, I don''t have any information regarding the incorrupti. And their existence to serve the Primordial Lord? Who the heck is that.


    But I shook off my thoughts and prepared to fight. The incorruptus rushed forward and assaults in a barrage of fists and kicks.


    It made it difficult for me to cast a spell, and I couldn''t dodge its unrelenting fury. It then connected it''s palm on my chest and a sudden force shudders my whole body and sending me flying.


    I crashed on the floor, skidding across the wet floor. My head was bleeding and my mind was swimming.


    "Yield youngling. Mortals cannot hope to topple the designs of our lord." It said.


    "Funny... When I first made this world, I never wrote about you guys." I whispered, I was addled and my adrenaline was making me woozy.


    "You speak as if you are the maker? How blasphemous. I shall smite you and offer your tongue to the Primordial Lord!" It rushed forward and made his fist condensed with pure energy. But I smiled as it got in range:


    "Shackle the very essence of life: Tightening Chains!"


    Numerous chains of light erupted from the ground, rooting the incorruptus in place. It''s face morphed with bewilderment and rage.


    "Such insolence!" It bellowed.


    "You said that the Primordial Lord gave you life, correct?" I asked, the Incorruptus struggled in the chains, its whole being was getting torn apart.


    "That is correct, I was given this wonderous task by my primordial lord. And Arthur McGillan, is destined to die to awaken Lucy McGillan!" It said and sighed.


    "When I first wrote this book, I gave Lucy''s awakening a rather... swift opening. A nameless character, an extra. I never once mentioned you, nor your host. So tell me... What are you really?" I asked, and placed myself dangerously close.


    "I am an Incorrupti. The Soul of the Body. The Destiny made Whole." It said.


    "But do you have to die in order to fulfill your wish?" I asked quietly.


    "It is the will of my lord! You cannot change this! No one can!" It snarled at me and I gave him a middle finger.


    "Screw your rules, I make them." I said and focused the memories of Arthur as my source of power. The Incorruptus'' face made a horrified expression.


    "W-what?! This is... Only the Primordial Lord can-"


    "Incorruptus of Arthur, no... Incorruptus Ira. Forgive me but... I will be terminating your services as the destiny that I have written." I said and its eyes widened, it tried to speak but I cut it off with:


    "Re-Write."


    Sheets of Paper swirl around us, until it was the Incorruptus'' turn to evaporate into paper. Its face was filled with horror as it finally understood who I was.


    "I am sorry for giving you such an ardous task, be reborn... and live. As Arthur''s destiny, as his inner self. I want you both to live." I said. and came back to the outside world.


    I watched as Arthur''s whole complexion relaxed and returned to normal, his wounds closing up and he was... breathing. Just unconscious... But breathing.


    "W-what did you do?" Lucy asked, shocked by what she just witnessed.


    "Just something that I''m suppose to do." I said as I suddenly coughed out blood. My head swirls around and everything was going hazy.


    My last recollection was that Leo and Toby were calling for someone, and Claire was cradling me, I couldn''t make out her words as my world began to darken. Then... I fell to a dreamless slumber.

 Ventus Platoon

    Did I do the right thing?


    Knowingly changed a person''s fate... No... I changed Two people''s fates that night. Arthur McGillan didn''t meet his end, and Lucy McGillan''s Awakening didn''t trigger.


    But Toby needed Lucy''s assistance during his missions. If Lucy didn''t awaken to a Ranger Class in the early part of the story, then do I have to re-write several fates I order to get the original story moving?


    But my existence alone was proof that we were already deterring from the original story. In the initial state, there was no Yman Caliesto. There was no Grimoire weilding Spellcaster. And there certainly no Incorruptus and a skill called Re-Write.


    Yet here I am. Another day in my unfinished novel.


    I grouchily opened my eyes to the welcoming sight of my dorm. As much as I don''t want to believe it, this is the reality that I am living.


    I groaned as I tried to get out of the comforts of my bed. My whole body protested as I got up, my hair was a disheveled mess and my body had bruises and blue patches. Injuries of which I sustained when I fought against Arthur''s Incorruptus.


    ''Damn... I look awful.'' I thought to myself and I remembered. My rewards. I then opened up the system and the notifications appeared:


    -Character Quest Cleared!-


    Learned -Script of Fire-


    Earned the Title -Defier of Fate-


    Academy Reputation +50


    -Character Quest Cleared!-


    Learned -Script of Darkness-


    Obtained the Talent -Spellthief-


    Charles Aspersa Reputation +10, Academy Reputation +50


    Wait... I also cleared Charles'' Quest?! But... I didn''t even fought him.


    "Yman? We''re coming in!" A voice called out my door and when it opened, it was Leo, Claire, and Toby. When they saw me wide awake, Leo was the first to rush forward and tackling me with a hug. Was he... Shaking?


    "L-Leo?" I stammered. I wrote Leo to be a cold person to his enemies but a warm person to his allies, but this is a bit too much.


    "He''s worried Yman. That''s how he usually expresses his heartfelt concern." Toby smiled and lightly punches my shoulder.


    "What happened? Where''s Arthur?" I asked, I don''t remember much of the aftermath and what took place.


    "Arthur''s fine, Yman. He wanted to visit you too, but he''s still hospitalized after losing too much blood." Claire informed me and I sighed with relief. That really means he''s alive and well.


    "As for what happened three nights ago, the aftermath was a disaster. The Headmaster told us that someone was practicing Chimera Research and let them loose. Fortunately, nobody died. Heavily injured, but still fine." Toby said.


    "And about your duel with Charles. He called it off, he said that he doesn''t need to find out how strong you are anymore since... Well. Many students saw how you revived Arthur and made a huge contribution in protecting the other students." Leo said, and he was done embracing me. Then he punched my chest really hard.


    "That''s for scaring the shit out of me." He said and walks off, but not before grinning at me.


    After catching up and insising that I am fine, they all settled down. It feels good, being surrounded by people you trust.


    "But still Yman. What''s that thing you screamed? For that Water Screen thing?" Claire pondered and Toby grinned.


    "Torrents, bring refuge? Dude... That line was epic as hell." He agreed.


    "It was a spur of the moment kind of thing." I lied, I was always using lines from most of video games I have played.


    "At any rate. The headmaster wishes to speak with you." Claire informs me and I nod. No doubt he wants to know how I saved Arthur.


    "Yman... It''s good to have you back. See you at the barracks soon." Leo said and they all left. I wasn''t sure how to make of it, but... I did it. I changed Arthur''s fate. Perhaps... there are other characters that needed their fates to be salvaged.


    I noticed that the uniform I''m going to use changed, instead of the entrants basic blue and white uniform, I was given a black and red tunic, black fatigues and combat boots. My name was also stitched on the right side of the chest pocket. ''Y.Caliesto'', this still feels surreal.


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    I changed into that uniform and head towards the 5th floor, or the Office of the Headmaster.


    I knocked on the door, and it opened automatically. The interior was a mess. Stacks of paper were scattered haphazardly across the floors and tables. And the headmaster scrambling around the office, trying to locate a paper within the mess.


    I looked at the headmaster with a pitiful stare, and I used the time to do a quick peek:


    ''Inspection!''


    -Due to a vast difference in level, most information is hidden.-


    Name: Ivar Valkyris


    Class: Sage


    Level: 110


    ''Sweet mother of... how the hell?!'' I thought to myself.


    The headmaster may look like 30 years old with white hair and clothes that screams he is not doing well financially, but his overall strength was appalling.


    "Um... sir?" I cleared my throat and he finally pulled out the piece of paper


    "Ah yes, can I help you?" He asked and I personally want to get out of the room. But then again, I couldn''t. What if he becomes a hostile?


    "Cadet Yman Caliesto reporting, sir." I said and he gave me a crooked smile.


    "At ease Mr. Caliesto. Please, come in and ignore the endless array of papers." He invites me inside and the door closed on its own. The whole room was a huge mess, but it didn''t seem to phase the Headmaster. He was pouring tea for the both of us and he sets it front of me.


    "You must be concerned for my sudden summons Mr. Caliesto. Don''t worry... I''m not going to punish you. In fact, I''m here to reward you." He said but the glint in his eyes tell me otherwise.


    "I feel a big if coming..." I told him and he gave a hearty laugh.


    "Nothing gets by you huh lad? You''re right, I do have something in my for you." As soon as those words left his lips, a silver screen appeared before me:


    ''Class Quest: A Spellcaster''s Trial''


    Clear Conditions: Finish the Task of Headmaster Ivar Valkyris.


    Clear Rewards: EXP, New Class, Talent: ''Silence Immunity'', Invocation: ''Script of Augments''


    I gawked at the screen. I can advance already? And to the Spellcaster at that. I looked at him and he was expecting my reply.


    "What is it sir?" I asked and he hands me the paper. I read the content and paled.


    "S-sir?! You don''t seriously mean this... right?" I asked but he shakes his head.


    "As headmaster... I cannot risk being discovered in the open. So I need someone like you to do the honors. Cadet Yman Caliesto, from this day henceforth, I bestow upon you the membership of the Investigations unit, I hope that you find that the team I will assemble in due time will be of service for your endeavors." Sir Valkyris said.


    "The team that you will assemble huh?" I was already concerned. Do I have to deal with other people again?


    "At any rate, I''ve kept you at bay for too long. Go on, you have some catching up to do. Oh and by the way, you belong in Ventus Platoon." Sir Valkyris informed me and I was slightly glad. I know the Ventus platoon. I thanked him and head down towards the Gym, but it turns out I was now in the innermost part of the Academy.


    Callastro is divided into two sections; The Outer Academy houses the Entrants, while the Inner Academy houses the Platoons and those who are now fit for missions and combat. Callastro Academy is also the military and security forces of the continent of Custos.


    The inner academy''s gym is three times larger than the outer gym, since it houses the True Hall of Arms and the Simulation Devices are more omnipresent and more realistic than the ones outside. Standing outside the Hall of Arms were Toby, Leo, Claire and three other girls whom I never met before. And the guy who was holding a clipboard, green eyes scanning the content as he fixes his blond hair, was our captain.


    "Sorry for the delay sir, Cadet Yman Caliesto reporting, sir!" I salute and the Captain smiled.


    "Heh, at ease soldier. And welcome to Ventus Platoon. Since you''re the first to introduce, I''ll go next. I''m Ventus Ashari, 3rd Year with the class of Trailblazer. Pleasure to meet everyone again." Captain Ventus flash a smile that can rival Toby''s.


    Trailblazer? So he branched off from the Archer line. Everyone had a chance to introduced themselves, But just to be sure, and to see if no one is lying...


    -Inspection!-


    ''Due to a high level difference, some information has been deemed unreadable.''


    Name: Ventus Ashari


    Level: 15


    Weapon Proficiency: Throwing Knives


    Class: Trailblazer


    So he said everything there is about him, but I looked at the other girls. Starting with the girl with mint colored hair:


    Name: Angela Calmaira


    Level: 10


    Weapon Proficiency: Whip


    Class: Dancer


    Then, the girl with a darker skin tone and confident aura about her:


    Name: Soraya Rajavi


    Level: 9


    Weapon Proficiency: Claymore


    Class: Warrior


    Lastly, the timid girl also with Glasses:


    Name: Hanabi Asano


    Level: 8


    Weapon: Staff


    Class: White Mage


    So all of us are stacked and covered. We have two forward tanks, namely Soraya and Toby, Speed skirmishers like Claire and Captain Ventus, Disruptors like Angela and Leo, and the mages, me and Hanabi.


    "Yeah, well met everyone! Now that we''re all here, let''s get the briefing started." Captain Ventus said in an enthusiastic voice. "Our mission is simple, it''s a simple clean up. Chimeras are starting to gather at Sandata Gorge, just the west of the academy."


    "Sandata Gorge... A huge open crevice made possible by a mining accident. No one died there, but the ore deposits were releasing a dangerous substance known as arsenic." Hanabi informed us, and I''m impressed. Seems like there are other hidden talents here now that I am part of this novel story.


    But I knew we have detracted from the main story, because I didn''t write the Ventus Platoon, and Toby was supposed to lead his own squadron after the incident of the Cafeteria in the Outer Academy.


    So now here I am... Stuck in the story that I will be forced to see through till the end. But I won''t quit. As the writer and creator, who knows what hidden secrets this uncomplete novel of mine has to offer. And I couldn''t help but feel excited at the prospect of learning these secrets.

 Ruin Pathfinders

    Sandata Gorge. Just like Hanabi mentioned, is a huge and desolate place. Black stones, jagged like swords and spears, poke out the ground, exuding sand and dust. The whole place was brimming and overflowing with Earth Elemental Energy. And it was so abundant that it made my head spin.


    "This is the place. Sad state of affairs ain''t it?" Captain Ventus whistled, earning a grin from Toby and Soraya.


    "Yman? What''s wrong? You look a little pale." Claire notes and I agree with her. The excess amount of earth energy was making my chest heavy.


    "Right... magic users are sensitive in mana. The overflow of mana is highly dangerous, so Yman, tell us right away if the concentration is already too much for you to handle." Captain Ventus informs me and reassures me.


    "Captain... I''m seeing activity from beyond the entrance. " Leo informs us, I think he already obtained his talent: ''Hawk''s Vision''.


    "How many can you see Leo?" Claire asked as she readies her spear.


    "Three to five chimeras. They''re wolf-breed." Leo cursed under his breath.


    I haven''t fought with the wolf breeds yet, but according to what Toby and Claire experienced, they were agile creatures with excellent mobility and claws sharp as steel. The only magic that can effectively subdue them is Earth Magic. But I haven''t received the Script of Earth yet.


    "We have to lure them out of here. Arsenic readings are spiking in the inner corridors." Angela surmised.


    "Easier said than done. Those wolves have fast reflexes." Toby grit his teeth, he must''ve had a very difficult time in dealing with those things.


    "Hey... Yman, right?" Soraya began, it seems even she was having difficulty in pronouncing my name. "You can use Light magic yeah?"


    "Yeah, I can... why?" I pondered and she grins.


    "Be our bait." She offered and everyone stared at her.


    "What?" Toby inquired with an angry tone.


    "Hear me out... Like all chimeras, they are susceptible to Holy and Light elements. And whenever they see a light source, they attack it without mercy. So, why not use that to our advantage." Soraya explained and she did make valid points.  But the others weren''t trying to risk that idea.


    "I''ll do it." I put an end to their squabbling. But Toby and Leo were dead set on stopping me.


    "Yman this is too dangerous!" Leo puts in.


    "I know... But the mission comes first. And I know you guys will have my back."


    "What is with you? You''re always like this!" Toby said.


    "Like what?" I asked them with a cold tone. "Toby... If it''s a job to protect our school and the community, I don''t have the luxury of being timid. It is our duty as cadets."


    "B-but..." Toby was trying to find a loop hole but Captain Ventus intervenes:


    "That''s enough cadets. Yman, you should know that they''re just concern for your well being, no need to be cold. Leo and Toby, your comrade is ready to do the task suggested to him. So, as his companions, it''s our job to make sure he comes back home safe too. Right?"


    "But captain, their concerns are warranted. Yman is a Mage, he can''t outrun those beasts." Claire puts in, she''s clearly upset but she wasn''t letting herself be affected by it. She really does have the mission close to her being.


    "That''s why I''ll be there with him." The Captain volunteered and all of us were gaping.


    "C-captain?!" Even Soraya was perplexed by the sudden impulse of the captain.


    "Ease up Soraya, your reaction makes it seem like I''m gonna haze the new recruit. Nah, I just need a bit of time with Caliesto here." Captain Ventus said, but the others still weren''t convinced.


    "We should trust the captain." Hanabi said timidly, and she was... blushing towards the Captain. Do I detect something?


    "That''s our Hanabi! Anyways, catch you guys later. Be sure to get ready when we give the signal. Leo, show us your marksmanship. Claire, Toby, back him up as his melee cover. Hanabi, reserve your strength for Team buffs. Soraya, Angela,


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    just grabs me by the neck and drags me away towards the edge.


    "I''ve heard from the headmaster. Seems like he has faith in you." Captain Ventus'' voice suddenly became a whisper. And I nod, his face was serious and stout.


    "He asked me to investigate the origins of the Chimeras. And that already coincides in trying to get along with the platoon, I presume?" I investigated and Captain Ventus nods.


    "Yep... But listen Yman. As your captain, it''s my responsibility to ensure your safety, that''s why I volunteered to be with you when luring those wolves. Plus, I''m curious about your capabilities." The captain said and we reached our destination, a secluded cliff overlooking the pit.


    And I could hear them, rasping breathe, the distinct clash of metal and stone, and the thuds of feet in the bedrock. I could hear at least 6 chimeras. The captain gives me a nod and I readied my spell:


    "Blind them with your brightness; Ray!"


    An orb of light appears above and rains down a barrage of luminous lasers at the pit. Howls and yelps sound in reply, and then angry snarls began to resonate in response. I think we''ve got their attention. Just then, huge shadows began to leap in the air, and the wolves were now surrounding me and the Captain.


    "Captain... What do we do now?" I asked and the captain smirked.


    "We fight... Set the signal off now!" The captain said and hurls a storm of blades at the wolves, some dissipated for being impaled by the daggers, but most got out in harm''s way. Although it bought me enough time to signal the others.


    "We''ll need to hold out for another minute or two sir." I said and he snickered.


    "Seems like you underestimate your own teammates Yman. But, I get it, they have been hiding their talents like you. And since Claire, Leo, and Toby were earlier than you, they''ve adapted to my platoon with finesse." Captain Ventus informed me as he stabs a wolf and throws a blade towards one in mid-air.


    I didn''t know what he meant but only ten seconds passed and Claire comes in from the sky, plunging on top of a wolf, her spear impaling the wolf who skids away from the captain''s barrage.


    When a chimera was about to pounce at either the Captain or Claire, a bullet pierced it''s skull out of nowhere. At the highest edge of a cliff, Leo was positioning his barrel towards the incoming and climbing chimeras.


    At the same time, a flash of steel began decimating the incoming reinforcements, swings of a claymore and a sword moving at wind speed, and a blur of black and blond hairs was all what the poor chimeras saw, as Soraya and Toby dance around the field, I could feel my strength surging, the I realized these were buffs, I look at the cliff and saw Angela and Hanabi''s magic. Hanabi''s divine magic was protecting us, while Angela''s dance was invigorating our strength.


    "See? This is how we do it in the Ventus Platoon." The captain said as he brandished his knives in a cone, impaling the legs of three chimeras. He then nods at me to finish the deed:


    "O light of the fragile stars; Energy Blast!"


    Three spheres of light envelop around chimeras and burst out in a loud bang! The howls dissipate as they turn to fur and claws.


    The aftermath of the fight was anti-climactic. But I did learn one thing, our platoon functioned in their best performance.


    "That''s only a few of the main bulk." Leo said as he counts his bullets and checks his rifle.


    "Gotta agree with the marksman. The report said a very particular chimera is roaming about the gorge. Says to have a brighter coat, and the fangs and claws were brimming with elemental energy." Angela said, taking a breather to massage her aching legs.


    "Um... Yman? Are you hurt? Is your mana reserve low?" Hanabi asked me, her expression was that of concern, and she does look like she tired.


    "I''m fine, you don''t have to give me your Mana potion... in fact..." I just realized. Whenever I used magic, I never get tired, well except from talking and reciting the incantation. But other than that, not once did I had the need to drink a mana restoration potion.


    "I-I see..." She blushed and walked away.


    "How should we proceed now, captain?" Soraya asked.


    "Hmm... Since the entry way is cleared, we have one shot in clearing this place. So how about we finish the deed?" Toby suggested but Angela shakes her head.


    "There''s the issue with the Arsenic gas too." Leo explained and Toby''s face sank down.


    "But Toby did make a point... Who knows if we''ll get another shot like this?" Claire puts in.


    "Yman, Hanabi, any thoughts?" The captain asked us two magic users.


    "Well... We still have supplies, but it won''t last for a full blown expedition in the depths of the Gorge. But I also agree that we might lose this opportunity if we run away now." Hanabi ponders on the options.


    I weighed in our choices. The Sandata Gorge isn''t a walk in the park either. From what I remember in my making this place, Toby and his platoon were dispatched here during act 2. And they briefly mentioned the countless number of expeditions failing to see it through. But it also here where Toby acquired Awakening and his weapon, Oathsworn.


    "I''ll clear the way." I said and all eyes fall on me, without allowing any of them to protest, I was already chanting.


    "Scatter and dissipate upon the breeze; Storm!"


    A gale of green energy bellows forth and blows away the black sand and yellow vapor. Leaving only a clear pathway.


    "Is it accessible?" I asked and the Captain gave me a solid thumbs up.


    "No arsenic residue can be detected anywhere near the entrance." Angela notes. "Well... that solves the glaring issue."


    "Heh, having a mage sure is handy. Glad to finally see the natural elements being blown away." Soraya lets out a hearty laugh.


    "Well, since we''re already here... Why don''t we explore it even further?" Captain Ventus asked and all eight of us entered the ruins deep inside the Sandata Gorge.

 Oathsworn

    When doing an expedition in an unknown area, I have got to follow these sage rules:


    NEVER EVER SPILT UP IN A GROUP OF TWO PEOPLE!


    Let''s go back 10 minutes after we decided to descend into the depths of the ruins beneath the Sandata Gorge.


    The grand hall was sealed by an intricate gate. Red, blue, green, and yellow. The colors of the four elements.


    "We have taken a record of the gate. Shall we delve further captain?" Leo asked as he finished taking a photo of the gate.


    "Everyone, I''m detecting something... from all four halls. They seem like concentrated mana." Hanabi said. Her detection range sure is strong, even as a white mage class.


    "Yman... Can you detect them as well?" Toby pondered and I nod. When I first held the grimoire, my mana veins opened up, at first, it was torture. Now, it felt normal. And when I''m in the presence of highly condensed mana, I can feel a tingle. But what I also know, is that beyond the gate, was a Divine Artifact.


    But I kept it a secret. Toby must be the one who should draw that sword.


    "I get it... it''s one of those four keys thing they taught back at the outer academy!" Angela said and Toby''s face lit up as if he just realized it too. Oh the bliss of ignorance.


    "Captain? Your orders?" I asked and Captain Ventus was still pondering.


    "We have no information regarding the four hallways. And I would suggest all of us to split in groups of two." The captain said and we were all posing to say no.


    "I know it''s risky... But if we bring in more manpower, then this will be a group effort, not our team anymore." Captain Ventus said and I understood his reasons. The inner academy awards high points to the platoon that made a huge discovery. That''s how Toby and his Platoon were able to get clearance for an early promotion.


    "I agree with the captain. Nothing ventured, nothing gained... right?" I asked them and poor Hanabi looked like she was about to cry. But eventually they all relented.


    "Okay but before that, Hanabi. Can you tell what element are those beyond?" I asked her and she shakes her head. Then I told everyone the element of each hall. When they understand the gravity, it was likely we''ll face chimeras of that element.


    "Leo and the Captain will take the Hall of Wind in the north, since it may contain flying chimeras. Toby and Soraya will take the Hall of Earth in the south, it has a high chance of having the turtle chimeras. Angela and Claire will take care of the Hall of Fire in the East, most likely they''re the wolves. Finally, me and Hanabi will take the Hall of Water in the west, since that one has an unknown chimera."


    "Hang on, you two? But what will happen if you two get hurt?" Soraya asked, she was clearly concerned about Hanabi.


    "If there''s one thing I know, it''s that Hanabi will be the one who will protect Yman." Toby said while Claire and Leo nod in agreement.


    "I''ll make you eat those words Toby..." I smirked and suggested that if the two of us haven''t returned, they can head for the Hall of Water.


    When we reached the entrance, a heavy feeling began to weigh me down. Like the increase of water pressure when diving deep in a trench.


    "Yman, I feel heavy..." Hanabi told me, she was also heaving rather dangerously.


    My eyes also felt heavy, what is happening? Then I can hear hissing, and then a shadow lunged. It grazed my shoulder when I shield Hanabi. A bloody gash was stinging my left arm. Great, not only can I hold my book properly, I''m also causing Hanabi more trouble.


    "Y-Yman! You''re injured!" Hanabi paled but I gave her a reassuring smile. The pain helped me cope with the pressure.


    -Inspection!-


    Due to the same level as the target, information are as follows:


    Bladetail Serpent


    Level: 9


    Family: Serpent


    Skills: Shadow Strike, Envenom, Gravity Gaze


    Weakness: Fire and Light


    Dang... This is trouble. Serpent Class chimeras are a pain to deal with. Their ability to maneuver complex terrain makes it hard for me to pin point it''s exact position. What''s troubling, is their gravity gaze. So that''s why there''s pressure in this Hall.


    My vision was getting hazy all of a sudden. Then I remembered... It has the Envenom skill. And Serpent poison is hard to deal with.


    "Yman?" Hanabi panicked, but I was still giving her a reassuring smile. Ignoring the searing pain of the poison circulating in my system, I focused.


    Fire and Light... Two Elements that are really dangerous in close area spaces. But since we have a lot space here, I could spread it out, but that would mean I''m going to risk hitting Hanabi as well.


    "Hanabi... Can you hide behind the pillars and enhance it with Mageskin?" I whispered to her, trying hard not to let her know my straining voice. "And whatever you do, don''t leave that pillar. And if I get caught, run. Head for the others."


    "What are you planning?" Hanabi inquires but I gave her a sharp look, my red eyes seem to frighten her, so let''s just hope she takes a bite on my bluff. Fortunately she did and head for the nearest pillar and begins to channel the protection spell.


    I then rack my brain for a solution... Serpents, how did Toby and his team handle it? For starters, I gave these things mobility, so again, only the Earth Element can help me. But I let loose myself from my train of thought when another shadow lunges, narrowly missing my forehead. I bit back a curse and focused.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ''If I can''t stop them, might as well detect them.''


    Wind and Fire... A dangerous combination. But it''s all I got. Good thing I have a new talent;


    "The flames will roar..."


    I focused the fire energy, no matter how sparse it was, and when I gathered enough, I sealed it inside my grimoire, the gem encrusted at the center was giving off a crimson hue. I was about to speak another incantation when something coiled around me, making me drop my grimoire.


    I was now face to face with the Bladetail Serpent, it''s inky body suffocating me while scrapping its blade end tail against the ground. It''s yellow eyes met mine and it sank it''s fangs on my injured shoulder. I screamed out in pain, the venom circulating before was being backed up by another dose, my vision was getting blurry.


    ''Shit... shit...'' I was so stupid. Why did I put up that false bravado?! Was it because I didn''t want anyone in this Platoon to die? Was it because of my guilty conscience? I don''t know anymore...


    "HEAL!"


    A sudden surge of strength courses through me, the wound didn''t hurt but I still feel the venom inside me. I pushed down the pain and my hand wiggles out from the coiling body and my grimoire flew back to my clutches.


    "Oh fearsome storm, let loose the flames of the lord of fire; Flare Tornado!"


    A storm of flames began to blow forth as the stored fire energy from my book was used up and the wind energy I charged in my palm combined.


    -Spell Charge-


    Can combine one or two elements to create another spell.


    The blazing winds was enough to make the serpents back off, and since it was omni-directional, they had no way to escape and just accept their fates and evaporate back to the shadows they were made from.


    When the flames settled down, the heavy pressure died along with it. I took a deep sigh but chills began to overtake my body.


    Serpent Venom... This is bad, another thing I hate when I wrote this type of venom... They can''t be dispelled by magic. Only medicine made by an Alchemist Class can cure this.


    "Yman!" Hanabi rushed to my side and tried to lower her staff on my shoulder but I stopped her.


    "This isn''t any normal venom Hanabi... Can you help me up? We need to get to the end of the hall." I smiled at her, but she shakes her head.


    "Stop being stubborn! Why are you rushing head first into danger you big dummy!" Hanabi screamed right at my ear and she pressed her staff on my shoulder anyways.


    "Remedy!"


    A faint glow from her staff begins to envelop me, I wanted Hanabi to stop, but behind her glasses, were blue eyes burning with tears and determination.


    My shoulder felt a bit light, but I could still feel the venom coursing inside me.


    "There... are you okay?" Hanabi asked.


    "Yeah, right as rain!" I lied. I didn''t want her to worry, but knowing that this poison will only be cured by conventional tools is something most healers will overlook.


    "Let''s get going... And uh... Can you keep this a secret to the captain?" I pleaded but she shakes her head.


    "No. You were injured. Plus, you only kept me safe by directing the aggression only at yourself. We''re a team here Yman. I just hope you know that." Hanabi said firmly as we walked towards the now empty altar of the Water Key. Did I made Hanabi mad?


    When we reached the Gate, the others were also coming out of their respective halls. Leo and the Captain were covered with cuts and feathers, Claire and Angela were also covered with fur, but they were otherwise, fine. Soraya and Toby have sustained a lot of bruises, but they were grinning like they went out the tavern.


    "You look like hell what happened to you?" Leo asked Toby, who glanced at Soraya and they both laughed.


    "I like this kid a lot Captain!" Soraya exclaimed loudly.


    "Let me guess, you two made a bet and ended up with a tie." Claire said.


    "That we did! What happened to you Claire?" Toby asked.


    "Ugh... wolves. And the area was a bit cramped so I wasn''t able to jump around." Claire groaned. "Thankfully, Senior Angela was there to pick up the slack."


    "You''re too modest Claire. You did all the heavy lifting." Angela winked at her and they shared a laugh.


    "Hey... Hanabi? Why are you looking all glum like that?" Soraya noticed and Hanabi sighs.


    "I wasn''t thinking straight and put myself at risk." I told them and Hanabi looked at me, as if she wouldn''t think that I would tell them.


    "That''s a given." Leo said as he dusted the feathers.


    "What mess did you put Hanabi in this time?" Claire sighs.


    "We know... We just hope Hanabi would talk some sense into you." Toby smirked sat down.


    "He didn''t gave me trouble... He just... did what Reiko did." Hanabi said and she hands the key to Captain Ventus, not talking about it anymore.


    When Hanabi said that name, the whole platoon''s spirits went a bit downcast. Especially the Captain, but he immediately recovered.


    "Okay, Yman... We''ll talk later about your team spirit, but for now... We''ll see what''s beyond this door. Shall we?" The captain said and everyone''s spirits were lifted for a bit. I couldn''t help but feel at ease with Captain Ventus is around.


    When we turned the keys and unlocked the gate, a blinding light surrounds us. When the light died out, we were now looking at the sword imbued with divine light.


    "Who turned on the lights?!" Toby complained.


    Admittedly, I was a bit disheveled, but when I look around, only Toby, the captain, and I were rubbing our eyes. We were now staring at the sword with radiant light. The scabbard was gleaming like the silver moon, and the diamond on the hilt glinted with divine energy.


    "Light? What do you mean? Dude that''s just an empty altar." Leo said, but the I shook my head towards Toby.


    "R-right... sorry." He caught on.


    "Well, an empty altar, and chimeras guarding the keys." Claire recounts.


    "Sounds like someone did this purposefully. A trap to kill off platoons." Soraya suggested.


    "That''s a plausible theory. Still, this was a solid mission guys. Let''s just set-up a mark and head home." Captain Ventus said and we all nod.


    The others head above to signal that we have successfully cleared the Sandata Gorge Ruins. But Toby and the Captain and I stay behind, as we look on at the sword.


    -Inspection-


    Name: Oathsworn


    Weapon Type: Sword


    Attribute: Light


    Compatibility: E


    I knew it... The sword of one who brings hope. The Sword of Heroes.


    "Well, since only the three of us can see it. Why don''t we collect it as incidental gain?" Captain Ventus suggested and Toby looked excited, but he frowned.


    "But... I didn''t do much in this mission. Do I deserve this sir?" He asked, right for him to be modest despite his overly enthusiastic nature.


    I pat Toby''s shoulder. It''s my job to give this kid a fighting chance in the days to come.


    "You deserve it man." I said and he smiled and thanked me.


    As he walks up towards the Altar, Toby grabbed the sword and the chains that bound the sword broke and Toby lifts the sword from the scabbard, revealing the blade made out of divine mithril.


    "That''s... That can''t be." The captain whispered.


    "Captain? What is it?" I asked, feigning ignorance.


    "The Sword of Promise, Oathsworn." Toby said and he lifts the sword towards the ceiling and a blast of light bathed the entire ruins. And I swear, I could hear the deaths of multiple Chimeras in the vicinity of the Sandata Ruins.


    ''My jobs done... Now it''s your turn to be the leader you''ve ought to be, Tobias King.'' I told myself.


    Little did I know... Of the aftermath of my little encouragement would bring.

 A Maidens Grief

    3 weeks have passed when we first set off for the Sandata Ruins, and our Platoon was showered with praise, well mostly the captain who was forced to go to 10 drinking sessions every night. We were given at least a week of vacation leave. I was slowly getting the hang of being in the Platoon, maybe except the Drinking Sessions. Hanabi was the reining champion with 5 bottles in and she wasn''t even drunk. And when we returned to active duty in the Inner Academy, Claire, Leo, Toby and I were granted clearance for weapon updates.


    "Wait... we can have our own weapons now?!" Toby asked, as if he was ready to ditch his Academy Steel. But I knew he wants to hide the fact that he already has Oathsworn, but the captain insisted that he should choose another and practice dual wielding.


    "Yep, just got an order from the top brass. Oh and uh... Yman, the headmaster would like a word with you after you claim that new weapon of yours. Kay?" Captain Ventus said and he and the others head out, But Hanabi remained and she actually drags me away for a while. I got a glance of everyone from the platoon and... why are they smirking like that?


    "Hanabi? Look about what happened in the Sandata Ruins, I didn''t mean to upset you or anything, it''s just... I don''t know my own strength and, I might accidentally hurt you." I said, but she shakes her head.


    "I''m sorry too... I should not have snapped at you before. It''s just... you reminded me a lot of Reiko and... I couldn''t stop myself." She said, her eyes welling up and she cried. Everyone around us were talking and were glaring at me.


    "H-Hanabi... look... I promise I''ll try harder to trust everyone... it''s just. I can''t control my magic from time to time." I said.


    "Then promise me that you''ll all be careful in using your magic. I won''t take no for an answer Caliesto!" Hanabi said and stormed off before I could say anything.


    I scratched my head and ignored the swirling gossips that say that I got dumped or something.


    When I got back to the Hall of Arms, Toby was whistling innocently while Claire and Leo found a new interest in the curtains and ceilings.


    ''They''re bad at acting.'' I sighed and went inside first.


    The Inner Academy''s Hall of Arms was fancier and the selections were already named. Unlike the outer Academy''s weapons, here, we have the power to choose our weapons.


    "You guys coming in or what?" I asked my friends and they pretend to take interest in the weapons. But I know they''re distracted because Claire was looking at the shields, Leo at the daggers, and Toby with what I assume is whip.


    ''These damn kids...'' I sighed.


    "So... Did you and Hanabi have a little, argument?" Toby began and I shot him a look that can wither a meadow.


    "Are you interested in becoming a Dancer now Toby?" I shot back and he looked at the selection and laughed nervously. "And what Hanabi and I talked about isn''t as... steaming that you should gather like fishwives."


    "S-sorry... it''s just, Hanabi may be our senior, but she is also our age too. So we thought, she finally said it." Claire puts in.


    "Said what?" I asked, my curiosity was getting the better of me.


    The three of them glanced at each other and sighed.


    "Oh brother..." Leo said and walks over at the gun selection.


    "You''re a smart cookie Yman, figure it out by yourself." Claire said and rushes toward the javelin sections.


    "H-hey... Listen, I like to stay and chat but... These weapons won''t be picking themselves... hehe..." Toby said nervously but I grabbed his shoulder.


    "That''s bullshit and you know it... Now talk King." I whispered.


    "I uh... don''t know what you mean... Listen Yman, I need to pick a good weapon." Toby was now sweating bullets.


    "You already have Oathsworn, that lie won''t work on me." I said.


    It took me 30 minutes to make Toby spill the beans.


    "What do you mean? Hanabi is just concerned about my well being is all." I dismissed the rumor that Hanabi Asano and I made our feelings known in the Sandata Ruins. Plus, we''ve only met just a few weeks ago.


    "Aiya... you''re a tough nut that''s for sure." Toby said and heads for the sword section.


    I didn''t think much of it anymore and just head over the Catalyst section. The selection was... Bare.


    As in there was only a handful of useful grimoires for me to use, but their bonuses are... less desired.


    -Inspection!-


    ''Items have been appraised''


    Name: Records of Ervasti


    Type: Grimoire


    Proficiency: A


    Bonus: Light Magic can now bypass Stat limitation to C rank.


    Name: Melody of Tides


    Type: Grimoire


    Proficiency: A


    Bonus: Water Magic can now bypass Stat limitation to C Rank.


    Name: Hymn of the Four


    Type: Grimoire


    Proficiency: A


    Bonus: Wind Magic can now bypass Stat limitation to C Rank.


    These tomes were great... But with Spell Charge, I don''t need these kinds of bonuses anymore. I sighed and resigned to the fact that the academy has a shortage of weapons for Spellcasters like me.


    But I could still help my friends choosing their weapons. For Leo, I told him to pick the "Altair" rifle, since it will lessen his need to reload. For Claire, I told her to pick out the ''Wyvern''s Talon'' since it provides the ''Second Wind'' passive. And finally, Toby''s second sword, the four of us were torn, because the swords were all good for Toby''s martial prowess.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    "Toby you should use the Titan Breaker." Leo said as his eyes were brimming with excitement. I mean, sure, the Titan Breaker sword has the element of Lightning, and the blade was indeed captivating, at least an arm''s length, with a sharp tip and intricate guard.


    "That''s true, but the Wild Horn is also a great contender." Claire argues as she points the Nature Elemental sword Wild Horn. I checked the passive and dang it also has the Regeneration effect, plus it absorbs Water and Earth Elemental Damage.


    "Hm... What about you Yman? What sword do you think?" Toby asked for my opinion and the other two were staring daggers at me, as if telling me to agree with their suggested blades. But what caught my eye was a non-elemental blade, it was plain looking one but the passive alone was worth looking into:


    -Inspection!-


    Name: Brightsteel


    Type: Sword


    Proficiency: E


    Bonus: Grants the wielder to utilize elemental blades.


    I pointed to Toby and they all looked at Brightsteel.


    The sword was as long as his Academy Steel, but the pommel and the guard were intricate like gryphon wings, the blade was giving off a dazzling onyx hue.


    "Brightsteel? Hey, what do you guys think?" Toby asked and the other two seems to have also heard of the Brightsteel blade.


    "Get it." They said and Toby took the sword.


    "Hey, Yman... You didn''t find a book?" Toby asked and I nod.


    "None of the catalysts here suit me. Plus... I can''t switch to other forms. So I''ll guess I''ll petition to the Captain or something." I said and they understand. That means I''m still stuck with my trusty Academy Grimoire.


    "Hey, the headmaster wanted to see you right? I wonder why?" Toby wondered.


    "If you''re curious, why not come along with me?" I asked them but they all paled.


    "Y-yeah... no thanks." Leo stuttered.


    "What''s wrong?" I asked.


    "N-nothing... Good luck Yman." The three of them bolts out, leaving me confused.


    When I got to the 5th Floor, I could hear people talking inside. The voices belong to Captain Ventus, Headmaster Valkyris, and... another man''s voice.


    "... And I am telling you, there is no way I will let my daughter remain in your Platoon, Ventus. Especially now, of all places, you''ll send her there!" The man''s voice glowered.


    "That''s for her to decide Mr. Asano. Hanabi chose this path and became a member of the Academy''s Trainees. Plus, if you keep shielding her, she won''t let go of her past and move on." Captain Ventus drawled, I stopped myself from snickering. The captain really knows how to touch other people''s nerves.


    "Headmaster Valkyris! This Captain of yours is showing the utmost disrespect!" The man, Mr. Asano, screamed at the top of his lungs.


    "That''s enough. Captain Ashari, please be a bit... courteous with our guest." The headmaster droned as well, as if he and the captain were in the same wavelength.


    "Roger that sir." The captain said and the doors flew open, the man heading out had ebony hair and the same blue eyes as Hanabi. When he saw me, he huffed and brushed me aside.


    "Ah, Cadet Caliesto. We''ve been waiting for you." Headmaster Valkyris said and I salute:


    "Cadet of Ventus Platoon, 8th Member, Yman Caliesto, reporting." I said and they smiled and beckoned me to come inside.


    Captain Ventus was the first to notice the grimoire at my side and frowned. "Didn''t find a good book I take it?"


    I nod and sighed. Spellcasters are rare after all, and most mages use Staves and rods as conduits for their magic.


    "I''ve read something from Private Asano''s in-field reports during the Sandata Ruins expedition. She said that you use External Mana instead of Internal Mana, is that correct Cadet?" The headmaster inquires.


    "That''s right. I mostly rely on the abundant energy around me and use that as to conduit of my magic. My grimoires also acts as a storage catalyst so I can save up magic for later use." I explained how my magic works and they both nod.


    "Efficient, though you said that you need to speak to the energy, yes?" The headmaster pressed the question.


    "Yes sir. Which is why everyone keeps looking at me strangely whenever I cast a spell or two." I laughed lightly.


    "Hey, I don''t judge Yman." Captain Ventus joined in. "In fact, it''s refreshing to know if we need to step back or scatter since, you need time to finish the spell."


    "Agreed, most mages use Magic instantly, resulting in friendly fire, however, whenever they hear you speak an incantation, it''s a good signal for them to back off." The headmaster agreed, and I can''t argue with that assessment.


    "But you didn''t call me here just to ascertain about my magic, correct?" I inquired, talking about me is a bit... off putting to say the least.


    "That''s right. And fortunately, you haven''t picked up a new weapon from the Hall of Arms." The captain gave me a huge grin and places a really old spellbook, but judging by the cover alone, I figured it wasn''t old, but the actual design.


    It has a verdant green skin, with a ruby gem encrusted at the center. The flowers that decorated the spine offer great balance and the gilded lettering was polished as if brand new. I couldn''t wait anymore and activated:


    -Inspection-


    Name: Tome of the Emerald Dream


    Type: Grimoire


    Proficiency: A


    Bonus: Grants a permanent Blessing to the Skill: ''Inspection'', transforming it into ''Scry'' and gives the Invocation: ''Script of Nature''.


    Transforming my sight skill? That''s a huge bonus. I looked at the captain and the headmaster, it seems even I couldn''t hide my excitement.


    "Judging from your expression, it seems the book is to your liking?" Captain Ventus asked. "Well, it better. You have no idea how long it took for me to haggle it from the other Platoons."


    "Wait... you did what now?" I asked and the captain feigned ignorance. I feel a sudden increase of respect to Captain Ventus, even though I never fully trusted them during our time in the Sandata Ruins... He was looking out for me.


    "T-thank you." I said, my voice cracked by being touched by his kindness.


    "You''ll thank me by making it up to Hanabi. The girl is still upset by your actions Yman." He said and I nod. And on that note, was the return of the system:


    -Destiny Re-Writing Quest received!: Tears of the Lost Souls -


    Info: Investigate the Incident of the Kusanagi Forest and Subjugate the Destiny of a Misguided Soul.


    Clear Conditions: Successfully Re-write the destinies of Hanabi Asano and Reiko Kusanagi


    Rewards: Asano and Kusanagi Reputation +100, Invocation: ''Script of Earth'', Talent: ''Chainspell''.


    Failure: Reiko Kusanagi will be your Mortal Enemy.


    I almost choked on the quest. So... I''ll be up against the Incorrupti again. I should''ve known... Now I remember who Reiko was. He was the Main Villain of the Third Arc, or the Rainforest arc. It was where Toby and Lucy were separated from their platoons and worked together in restoring the Rainforest''s ecological stability, but it was also where they defeated the main boss of that arc, the Kusanagi Ranger. Reiko''s corrupted form.


    I looked at my clenched fist. The Kusanagi Ranger... I wrote him as a sharpshooter, whose arrows of deepwood can cause insanity and grief. And when Toby plunges his sword through his stomach, his last word were: ''Forgive me... my flower, I never wanted to leave you all alone.''


    So Hanabi Asano... She is also a victim here. Reiko''s Flower. The memento the ranger drops for Toby.


    "I feel a mission coming." I said. And the Captain nods.


    "Kusanagi Rainforest. A joint mission with Jove Platoon. But the platoons will split four each, in your case, It will be you, Leo, Angela, and Hanabi. While you''ll be meeting the other platoon at point B. I''ll brief the others there." Captain Ventus stops abruptly.


    "Is this because of your conversation with Mr. Asano?" I asked and he sighed.


    "Yeah... Hanabi''s past is still weighing her down, and the only way for her to move on. Is confront it. Plus... Hanabi was the one who suggested the Subjugation on the Forest. So, I guess that''s one step. but Yman... As your captain, make sure to keep close to Hanabi. I know you''re more empathic than you think, but... Please. Look out for her for me." The Captain told me. "I feel like she''s pushing herself."


    Aside from my quest to change the destiny of Reiko... I also have to take in consider Hanabi''s feelings as well. This is her fate as well. But I know what I have to do. As someone who lives in this novel... I have to set things right.


    I have to set this right. For Reiko, for Hanabi, and for myself.

 In the Forest of Magic and Madness

    Kusanagi Rainforest.


    A rainforest situated at the eastern part of the Academy''s location, namely within the border of the Senzakura Region, normally, we would''ve used a teleportation pad but our method of transportation was by boat due to the land being... too traditional. The trip was spent in silence, knowing the destination was an even treacherous locale was keeping us in our toes. Even if I did get a new grimoire, the nervousness was settling in my mind rent free.


    Kusanagi Rainforest, a name that strikes fear even in the most veteran of soldiers. Aside from the dense canopy and vicious flora, the fauna is mostly a mutated populace of avians, serpents, and aquatic life.


    The heavy rain was not a good sign either. Aside from the unexplored terrain, some areas of the forests will be unpassable due to the flooded pathways. But for me... It''s a little too personal.


    "So... any ideas on what we''ll face?" Toby spoke up amidst the driving rain and the crackling of lightning.


    "Well, for one. This rain, two, the plant life, and three. Hypothermia." I said but the sarcasm flew over Toby''s head.


    "Great, thanks for the info Yman." Toby smiled and I sighed.


    I was getting irate. Not only is the weather at the most ideal condition, but also the fact that the story has progressed to a more chaotic route. Toby, Leo, Claire are still cadets. Meaning, this may either make them into soldiers, or break them as soldiers.


    Let''s not also change the fact that the serpent''s venom was still inside me. I tried to find apothecaries, or anyone with the alchemist class. Sadly, those who are adept in the field of inoculation and mechanics are sent to the branch Academy in Calces in the far west. The Medical Team in the Main Branch are all Saints and Magic users, so it wasn''t as effective.


    Every night was torture. Serpent Chimera venom was potent in giving night terrors. Driving their prey insane until they fall off to their own demise. In my case, irritability and a bad case of sass.


    It was hard trying to keep calm, even with Hanabi''s recovery magic, I was still a bit... cranky with everyone who tries to talk to me. But I was getting the hang on being subtle.


    "Alright guys, the docks are just up ahead. Again, this will be a joint mission between two Platoons." The Captain said.


    "Remind us again who our partners will be?" Toby raised his hand.


    "All right, The Jove Platoon is the 18th Ranking Platoon in Calastro. Led by Captain Jove Iverson. They''re... Pretty hard to miss." Captain Ventus remarks and Soraya couldn''t stop laughing.


    "Their team comprises of two rangers, one dedicated healer, a magic user, one spearman and one dedicated tank. In all honesty, his team is lacking an all rounder." Angela reads the file of the Jove Platoon from the Database.


    I looked it up as well, but it wasn''t as accurate as the ''Scry'' skill. I was looking over at the names, until I see a name that sent shivers down my spine. Charles'' second-in-command in the original and the one who kidnaps Leo in the arc I was suppose to write.


    ''Jeremiah Shickshal, Private Second Class''


    Jeremiah was a Reaver class, proficient in slash type polearms, he was second to none in the ways of subterfuge and subjugation. He even defeated Claire in single combat when I wrote his introduction in the cliffhanger arc.


    Now I''ll be teaming up with one of the group''s future enemies. But... Why did I made him into a villain again? Jeremiah was a highborn. He had everything. So why?


    I shake off my thoughts because the venom was acting up again, and this time, Hanabi saw me wincing.


    ''Oh crap.'' Was my initial thoughts, but Hanabi looks away. Is she still mad at me?


    I was about to tell everyone about my condition when a notification sounds all of a sudden, and the screen reveals an elder man, way older than the Headmaster.


    "General Kamui. This is a surprise." Captain Ventus salutes and we followed.


    The General and overseer of the Senzakura Region, Nagatsugikiri Kamui. He was on his deathbed when Toby and his Platoon were in the region who came to investigate the perpetual rainstorm and the rising activity of chimeras in the Kusanagi Forest.


    But looking at him now, he is missing an injury. Namely the gash on his chest that saps away his vitality. A gash that I wrote when I purposefully made Senzakura, a land of tranquility and elegance, be the first to be laid under siege by Charles and his posse. And sends the whole region in turmoil.


    "Greetings Captain of the 177th Platoon, Ventus Ashari. I trust you are upon the shorelines of the Yoshie Port?" The general inquires.


    "Yes sir, we''ll be disembarking within the next minute." Captain Ventus confirms, the General then stroke his white mustache, and I swear I can hear Toby struggling not to laugh.


    "Then we have time. Now, I''m sure you are aware of the situation of the Kusanagi Rainforest? The sheer amount of rainfall has drastically upset the balance of the ecosystem. If this situation is left to fester even more, I believe Senzakura will be besieged by floods within the next few years." The General briefs.


    ''Make that months...'' I wanted to say but I held my tongue. The rainstorm will only intensify because the Kusanagi Ranger''s presence alone aggravates the Rainstem. The source of the Abundant water energy in the rainforest.


    "Thus, I have issued a state of emergency here in Senzakura. And I want you and the Jove Platoon to heed my decree: You are to split up in groups of two per Platoon to maximize efficiency." The general said and we were all shocked by the order.


    "But sir-!" The captain began but he was cut off.


    "They are not students anymore, I know you have four cadets and one private under your wing Captain Ashari. But know that it is under your hands whether they should stay as cadets, or rise to the occasion. The Jove Platoon have sent their confirmation already. What say you, Captain?" The General''s tone was cold as permafrost, the Captain looked at us apologetically and he rescinds to the order.


    "Excellent. Now then, best of luck to all of you. And I expect results." The general cuts the feed off, and that was when Soraya and Toby burst out their frustrations. Angela was in shock, Claire was baffled, Leo was tensed, and Hanabi was looking pale.


    I for one, am scared. This has turned from a subjugation into a suicide mission. No way are we surviving this ordeal unscathed.


    "Captain this is absurd, is he telling us to die?" Leo was trying hard to keep calm, but his fists was white.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    "We are in Senzakura territory now. Their laws far differ to ours back at the Academy. So while we are here as reinforcements, they have jurisdiction on how we will operate here." The captain told us, and we didn''t say anything.


    We''ve arrived without saying another word to each other and we''ve met the Jove Platoon. And sure enough, I finally got what the captain meant about Captain Jove being hard to miss.


    He... She... I don''t know how to make of them. But they have a lean frame and short black bob hair, with sky blue highlights. Their eyes were like a pair of gleaming amethysts, and on their side, was a quiver full of bolts. Curiosity took over and I used;


    -Scry-


    Name: Jove Iverson


    Level: 17


    Class: Ranger


    Title: Purveyor of Equity


    Skills: Quickdraw Barrage, Vampiric Slayer, Shadowbinder


    Talents: Precision, Silverbolts


    So they are one of the Archers in their platoon.


    "Ah, Venti!!! So nice of you to finally come!" Captain Jove said, their voice drowning out the deluge.


    "Hi Jove... you''re in good spirits." Captain Ventus said and Jove flashed all of us a wide grin.


    "Hello Venti Platoon! I''m the ever famous captain of the 18th Platoon, Jove Iverson. Pleasure to meet you all." They said and we all greeted them with a lukewarm response.


    "Wow, tough crowd. And you have a very balanced team Venti!! You have two skirmishers, another ranger, a dancer, a healer and a mage. Oh my, your healer and mage! Aren''t they just adorable!" Captain Jove exclaims loudly.


    I never realized what it was until they pointed it out. Hanabi and I were wearing nearly identical coats, but the colors were different, I had the lighter tone while Hanabi''s was darker. Both of us looked away, and I could feel my face getting hot.


    "That''s enough Jove. What''s the situation?" The captain suppressed a smile as he gives Captain Jove a meaningful ''get to the point'' stare.


    "Spoilsport... But anyways, I''ll stop now. Venti, you and I will take the western forest, and bring another one with you, preferably the cute lady." They wink at Soraya, who shivered.


    "My platoon is already ready, two of them will be by the entrance of each glade. Oh, and just a heads up Venti... Have the Mage and Healer pair up in the East route."


    A silent conversation happened between the two captains, until Captain Ventus sighs.


    "Yman, Hanabi. Head to the east now. You have... different orders." Captain Ventus said, his expression was that of mortification and anger.


    Hanabi and I head to the eastern glade in silence, the rain was getting louder the more we head towards the east. And the more I think about it, the more the venom inside me was making me restless.


    "The serpent''s venom is still inside you... isn''t it?" Hanabi broke the tension and silence.


    "It is... Like I said, magic isn''t effective against it." I admitted.


    "Why didn''t you tell the captain?" She asked quietly.


    "Even if I did, our Platoon isn''t a standardized one. Calces will only accept platoons that have no more cadets in their ranks." I reminded her and she sighed.


    "If you feel any pain, tell me. Don''t be a hero." She said and walks ahead of me.


    "Hanabi wait." I chase after her but we were greeted by the two members of the Jove Platoon, the Spearman and the other Ranger.


    "Finally, what took you two do long?" The boy with gray hair and yellow eyes said, he hefted the halberd on his shoulder as he glares at us. Judging from the rich kid like demeanor, and that snobby way of looking at us. I''d say I found the potential scum bag.


    "Sorry for being late... Sir Shickshal." I said, feigning humility wasn''t hard thanks to the Serpent''s Venom.


    "Whatever. Hey healer! You better keep those heals coming, otherwise, I''d report to your captain about how poor you are at doing your job. Got it?" Jeremiah gloats and heads in first to the Eastern Glade.


    "Dumb fuckwit..." I muttered under my breath but Hanabi heard me and tries to suppress a smile.


    "Sorry about Jeremiah... he''s a bit... shirty with newcomers. I''m Trent by the way... Trent Rasca." The ranger introduces and offers his hand, which Hanabi and I shake on in turns, but once I grabbed his hands, my Scry ability activates on its own:


    Name: Trent Rasca


    Level: 10


    Class: Entrant (Possible Route Ranger)


    Skills: Clustershot, Grand Barrage


    Talent: Elemental Infusion


    I was surprised by how much talent Trent has. Is he... an extra in the novel as well? Like Arthur and Hanabi?


    "You okay Yman? You''re staring quite a lot at the distance." Hanabi asks, her tone was softer now.


    "Yeah... thanks. Anyways Trent, I''m Yman Caliesto, and this is Asano Hanabi."


    "Asano? You mean... You''re Chairman Asano''s Daughter?!" Trent hyperventilated and Hanabi just shushes him all of a sudden.


    "S-sorry... I forgot about that." Trent said and I was beyond confused. What''s gotten into Hanabi all of a sudden?


    We head over to the Eastern glade and a wall of rain splashes down on my face. Trent and Hanabi were safe but I was the unlucky one who got splashed. Jeremiah''s trail was apparent, since he was hacking away at the overgrown flora.


    "So how did you get paired up with Mr. Shickshal?" Hanabi inquires.


    "Captain Jove wanted someone to rein him in, but to be honest. Not all of us can stop Jeremiah." Trent admits.


    ''Of course no one can rein him in, his destiny is to be a member of the Final Boss.'' I thought.


    We were catching up with Jeremiah when I stopped on my tracks. There was something, or someone keeping an eye on us. That feeling of being watched from the distance was making me shiver.


    "Yman? What''s wrong?" Trent asked. Before I say anything, I sensed a loosed arrow and was aimed at Hanabi.


    "Torrents bring refuge; Rain Screen!"


    By utilizing the waters around us, a wall of water cushions the arrows. Making them float around harmlessly.


    Then I hear a sound coming from the left, and arrows began flying towards us.


    "Trent, Hanabi, Run!" I barked and we booked it towards the forest.


    This is not our day. We only got inside for like a few minutes and the Kusanagi Ranger was already behind us.


    Then something else just weighed in on my mind... I couldn''t see nor hear Hanabi and Trent. The jungle was dense and the rain makes it hard to hear if anyone was calling for me.


    Just then an arrow whizzes from my back and makes a cut on my cheek. The stinging sensation was was like pressing a hot knife on my flesh was so surreal it made me look behind me. And there he was... draped in leaves and eyes glowing bright gold.


    -Scry-


    Name: Reiko Kusanagi


    Level: 20


    Class: Ranger


    Title: Lord of Kusanagi Rainforest


    Skill: Grand Barrage, Forest Hymn


    Talent: Guardian of the Woods


    ''Shit...'' I cursed, this guy... He''s been grinding in the forest ever since. And now... He''s come to use me as fodder for his power.


    "Primordial... one." He said and I froze. What did he say? "Aberrant. An enemy to the ecosystem."


    It nocked a ruby-tipped arrow and it flew at blinding speed, hitting me square in the chest. But instead of piercing me, it exploded in a cloud of red dust.


    I coughed and gagged. Something about this arrow was... preventing me from speaking. Hushpollen?! I looked up and Reiko was gone, but something landed behind me, and when I turned around, a blow on my stomach knocked the wind and blood out of me.


    As my consciousness begins to fade, the Ranger whistled, and vines began to tangle and drag me away. I was following Reiko somewhere, but I didn''t know where as I blacked out. And all I heard was a single phrase:


    "You... don''t belong in this world."

 The Forest Gods Plight

    Rain... I hate the rain.


    It happened while I was planning on my vacation. I just got confirmation of my 13th month pay and I wanted to rest on editing numerous works. I wanted to go back to my home country, Spend time with my parents, and maybe even catch up with my childhood friends along the way.


    That is until that freak storm happened. Out of nowhere it engulfed the city, classes were rendered suspended. Streets were flooded, and people were just trying to go home. So was I... If only I didn''t take the scenic route. If only I blended in with the crowd more. If only I wasn''t so reserved, maybe I wouldn''t have been struck by lightning on the fateful day.


    What was the reaction of my parents? Was I dead? Or was I in a vegetative state in reality? I don''t know anymore.


    The crackle of fire was enough to wake me up. I grouchily looked at my surroundings. My tunic and coat were hung on the side. And when I got up, the shoulder that was bitten by the serpent was patched up. The Hushpollen was still linger inside me. But... Why don''t I feel anymore pain, nor did I have anymore nightmares?


    A movement from my right alarmed me and I was now face to face with the Kusanagi Ranger. His eyes were a pair of golden orbs, and the way he walks was creeping me out.


    "You... have woken up." He said and tosses my grimoire away from my reach. And he removes the cloak he was wearing, revealing his light green armor and his helmet.


    Reiko''s face was slowly being eaten by a purple and pulsating vein. His left eye was also tinged in purple, but his right eye was a beautiful shade of teal. His hair was uneven, with his glossy black hair tinged with violet tips.


    I gestured my throat, and he shakes his head.


    "You speak your magic. The vines have told me so. It is dangerous for the master if you are to speak." Reiko said and approaches me.


    "You are carrying a dangerous toxin inside. In more ways, you and I are not so different from one another." He said and he forces me to stand up. His grip was so strong, that even if he is a Ranger, he can still kick my ass easily.


    He looked at me with his suspicion filled eyes, and all of a sudden he drags me out and tosses me off the cliff.


    I couldn''t scream because I was still under the effects of the Hushpollen, but I wanted to hurl so many curse words at him before plunging into the deep blue lake. My back crashed hard on the Waters surface, stunning me as I sink down the watery abyss. Is this how I die? How ironic... Then I felt something tugging me, and I was picking up speed, and I burst out the water''s surface and noticed the tree root, or should I say tail. Was rising.


    From the surface, the tree looked like an ordinary one, but as I look at it a little bit closer, the eyes were glowing dull teal, and the vines were literally its beard.


    "Welcome... Child of man." It said, I wasn''t sure what to make of it, but still, I was mute.


    "I see you are under the influence of my children. I apologize, my ranger is... a bit hostile towards your kind." The serpent said. "Ah, where are my manners. I am Arbor. I''m sure you know who I am."


    I nod. The Serpent Deity who Charles killed off to start the Rainforest Arc. Arbor, Lord of Nature. Seeing him now, I guess Charles granted him a swift and merciful death. Nature Elemental Energy was coursing through his pale white body. I could feel his power waning with each day passes. The serpent sighs and a wind of fresh minty air wafts through me, and then I could feel my throat easing up, and I could speak again.


    How I wanted to talk one more time. Good thing Arbor gave me the chance again.


    "Lord Arbor... that boy is a mage, a speaker of magical incantations." Reiko arrives as he plunges from above, and both of us exchanged glares.


    "I would fry you for throwing me off the cliff and stripping me of my clothing. But I can''t... so count yourself lucky." I told him and Reiko only chuckled.


    "You? Fight me? You were so helpless when we first fought, how can you hope to beat me now?" He leaned in front of me, he wasn''t bluffing, this guy means business.


    "Enough... both of you." Arbor sighed and coils tighter. The Serpent god was wincing each time the tree shook. Reiko was looking at the serpent with the utmost concern.


    "By the looks of things... it seems you know what it is that''s afflicting me?" Arbor inquires. And I nod.


    "I do. But to be completely honest, what Reiko is doing is just delaying the inevitable. And I would stop you from asking, but my powers can''t fix you. I''m sorry." I said, telling the Old God that my magic is not as omnipotent as a God''s.


    The Serpent laughs, but it was a light and full of satisfaction, but Reiko was glaring angrily at me.


    "I wasn''t talking about prolonging my life child. All Gods know that death comes to all." He said. "No, in fact... I am asking if your power... as a traverser from another realm can free my servant from his vow." As the Serpent God said those words, a quest appears;


    -Sub-Quest received! The Vow of the Forest-


    Free Reiko Kusanagi from his Vow as ''Kusanagi Ranger''


    There were no clear rewards, nor even a Failure penalty. So this is... Arbor''s true and only wish. I looked at Reiko, he wasn''t looking at the Serpent God, but he was frustrated.


    I know what Arbor meant. If Reiko remains as the Kusanagi Ranger for a longer time, Arbor''s apparent death will contaminate him as well. Those who made a vow with their God as protectors will carry the burden of the Gods themselves.


    A cruel way of reverence. That''s how I wrote their belief. You can''t have a blessing, without first suffering.


    "I can." I said and the serpent god gestures at Reiko, who looked at him with fear and betrayal, then at me with vindictive hostility.


    "I won''t let you do it." Reiko said and he rushes for at with blinding speed and locked me in a choke hold. His strength surprised me as he was almost knocking me out again.


    "REIKO KUSANAGI, STAND DOWN." Arbor bellows and the whole valley shakes from the surge of Natural Energy. Reiko releases me from his grip and I was gasping for air. Anger roared in my ears as I used the nature energy holding Reiko in place, even without my grimoire.


    "Burst and grow forth, Ivy Rush!"


    Ivy vines materialized around Reiko, and constricts him, then yellow flowers blossomed and explodes into a blast of gold pollen. Reiko skids across Arbor''s body and gives me a murderous glare.


    "Oh you''ve done it now kid." He said and his bow materialized in his hand and a pitch black arrow was on his other hand. While I was ready to speed cast another spell.


    "ENOUGH!"


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    The bellow was enough to break my concentration, and Reiko stopped as well. Arbor''s presence was overbearing on me, like gravity increased ten fold. But the effect only lasted briefly as the serpent god was beginning to strain. The both of us rush towards the Serpent''s head, and I could see it up close now.


    "This taint... Did it came from the humans in Senzakura?" I inquired. I wrote about the Violet Plague, but I never expounded around it before. It''s an unknown disease caused by Chimera blood. If the God of this forest has been tainted, that would mean, the whole forest is affected.


    "Senzakura is only a factor, but not the main one. This toxin, it''s very foreign. One that can harm even a God. And one that can transmit and infect their chosen." The Serpent God hissed in pain. Then I glanced at Reiko, he didn''t like to share this topic it seems.


    I spent my days there with Reiko and Arbor, days turned to weeks, weeks turned to months. With my communicator busted, I couldn''t send an SOS signal. And even if I did, the dense jungle canopy will block out the signal. I wonder... Were they all alright?


    Arbor and Reiko didn''t kept me as a prisoner here, and my relationship with them turned from apathy to co-existence. I didn''t want to use Destiny Editor yet, so to make up for their suffering, I was treating them like my patients. I was using Water energy to alleviate their pains bit by bit. Looking at Reiko and the God, it seems healing Arbor first will also benefit his acolytes.


    "How long has it been ailing you?" I asked one session. And the God just looks at Reiko. And it dawned unto me. The Kusanagi Incident.


    "Roughly two years ago. When I was still part of the Jove Platoon. Hanabi and I were recent Cadets, long story short: Something went awry and I had to borrow the power of the Forest Protector. I succeeded but the price was steep. I had to leave the Platoon... and Hanabi." He said wistfully. Mentioning Hanabi must''ve awakened unfavorable memories. "I''m sure you know how that mission went, considering you and Hanabi are teammates now."


    "I don''t. I never pressed Hanabi for answers." I said and Reiko gave a hollow laugh.


    "You don''t fool me. Mages like are always hungry for knowledge. Your curiosity will eat you one day, then you''ll be forced to confront Hanabi about it?" He gloated and I could feel my face heating up with anger. What''s this guy''s beef with me?


    "I''m not that kind of person. Whatever your prejudice towards the mage community, leave me out of it." I said, it''s true though. I''m not part of any mage community, nor do I even belong in this world in the first place.


    Reiko was about to say something when Arbor began to writhe in pain. His breathing became so tense even I was taken aback. Then I saw the violet veins beginning to fester even more.


    "Move it!" Reiko pushed me aside as he places his hand on the Serpent''s Plagued Veins and it seems like he was offering his vitality to absorb the plague, it was getting smaller, but that meant the plague was going inside Reiko instead. His right eye was turning purple by the second.


    "Reiko! Are you mad?!" I shouted as I pulled him away from Arbor.


    "Let me go! Arbor needs me!" Reiko shouted as he pushed me away, despite his lean frame, he tossed me aside like I was nothing. "Master, I''m here. Please hang in there!"


    Reiko was forcing the Violet Plague inside him to cure the Dying God. If this keeps up, Reiko will lose his sanity. Thus, creating the Boss of the Kusanagi Rainforest. Arbor gave me a glance, telling me to stop Reiko.


    "I''m sorry Reiko. But this is for your own good!" I said as I condensed Natural energy on my fist and it became as hard as wood and I pushed Reiko away from Arbor.


    "You bastard, stop interfering!" Reiko shouts but I stopped him by summoning vines. Entangling him and rendering him unable to move.


    "Reiko stop!" Arbor orders but Reiko was still struggling.


    Before any of us could do anything, something cold was seeping in, like a gust of northern winds began to billow on towards us. I looked behind, and couldn''t see anything, but I could hear it. The footsteps of quadrupeds. Invisible ones at that.


    "That can''t be good." I whispered and released Reiko''s bindings. He too stopped as if the situation required his full attention.


    "Where''s my book." I asked and Reiko points at the top, I silently cursed and condensed nature element energy.


    "When I give you the signal, cover the master." Reiko said and I nod, our priority was protecting Arbor. Because if he dies, so will Reiko.


    "Now!"


    I slammed the energy on the ground to cover the sick god as I ascend through the vines, Reiko shoots an arrow that burst into a cloud of pollen, revealing our enemies.


    Red veins pulsating from their eyes, black tipped horns, and bodies filled with color changing pigments. It snarled at me and Reiko and they surged forward. While ascending, I gave them an intense look and activated ''Scry'':


    Name: Horned Changeling


    Level: 11


    Species: Chameleon


    Weakness: Darkness


    Skills: Camouflage, Horn Launcher, Tongue Lash


    They were mean, they were green by nature, and they can launch their horns at their targets. This is not good.


    Once I''ve ascended to the top, three changelings were waiting for me, and they were holding my grimoire. I felt so annoyed that they grabbed it with their grubby forelimbs.


    "Hands off." I said and commands the vines to toss them aside and towards the lake. I grab hold of my grimoire, and just took Reiko''s cloak once I realized that I was still going around topless.


    At the base of the tree, Reiko was being slowly overwhelmed by the sheer number of changelings charging towards him, and I doubt the vines that I used to protect Arbor would be enough to help. I grit my teeth and slide down, ignoring the quest screen when it appeared in front of me as I was gathering Dark elemental energy.


    "Abyssal blades raze those who would be thine enemies, Onyx Sabers!"


    Countless blades made from my shadow rained down in front of Reiko, blocking and killing the encroaching changelings that even he can''t  deal with in close quarters. I landed beside him and he nods.


    "Sorry I''m late." I said.


    "That''s my cloak." He notes and I rolled my eyes.


    "Can we just focus in protecting Lord Arbor." I snapped.


    "Doesn''t explain the cloak." He said and releases three arrows in quick succession.


    "Engulf the land with purest darkness, Oblivion!"


    I coalesced dark energy on my grimoire and launched that orb forward, when it hits one of the changelings, it expanded, creating a void that pulls in the others.


    "Grand Barrage!"


    Reiko shoots multiple arrows to the sky, and it all rained down on the cluster of enemies inside Oblivion.


    We may have defeated a lot of them, but there were more crawling through the entrance.


    "We need to close that. They can gnaw through wood." Reiko grits his teeth.


    "I can''t use Earth Magic." I said, and Reiko just stared at me.


    "What?!" He shouts but I willed the water to create a wall that surged forward. Drowning most of the changelings. "You can use Nature but you don''t know how to use Earth?!"


    "Now''s not the time!" I shout back and a horn sailed past me and lodged on the vine wall. Then the chameleons fired more of their horns. It was clear on who their target was.


    Reiko and I raged. I technically said screw it and unleashed every element in my disposal. The flames roared, the winds bellowed. Vines were given sentience, and the waters danced. Light shines down and Darkness gobbles up.


    The changelings were afraid by the barrage of magic, but it soon made me bleed through my nose due to fatigue and overload of spellcasting. Sensing my weakened state, they were surging forward again.


    Reiko wasn''t doing too good either, his fingers were bleeding from non-stop shooting, his eyes were also strained from the stress and the times he had to keep his accuracy in their breaking points.


    I looked at the Vine Wall, and sure enough I could see something oozing from it. Blood.


    "Master!" Reiko shouts but a tongue wraps around his neck and the same thing happened with me. The changelings pinned us down and took turns in smacking us with their forelimbs and blunt claws. All the while attacking Arbor''s weak cover.


    "S-Stop it!" I shout but to no avail. This was a hopeless fight. We were easily overwhelmed. Until a piercing light engulfs the changelings. A light I was so glad to see.


    "This is Private Tobias King! I found our missing comrade!"


    Toby said and brandishing Oathsworn, he decimates the chimeras in front of him.


    From his back, Leo shoots a burning ammo, which explodes on contact. Claire comes in, spear rending through the front ranks. Among them was Trent, he was shooting arrows, though not as efficient as Reiko, but it was imbued by the Element of Fire.


    And behind them, brilliant light empowering them, was Hanabi, wielding her staff as she casts a healing spell on both me and Reiko.


    "H-Hanabi?" Reiko stuttered and I was stunned. How did they find this place? And... What will happen to Reiko now?

 Woven Path

    The Battle was turned to our favor. The vast majority of the changelings were decimated by the sheer power of my friends, and by Reiko''s ferocity. The chimeras were easily routed, but some tried to escape. But Reiko and I had other plans for them.


    "Break through o'' twisted door of distortion; Negative Gate!"


    The space in front of the retreating chimeras was closed off by a distortion that was absorbing anything that gets in range. Some got sucked in, others were doing their best to hang on to their dear life.


    Reiko was thirsting for blood, and he sent a barrage of arrows made out of hard red wood. Blood stained the forest floor, and the cries of the dying chimeras all died down in a flash.


    One managed to dodge but I flung myself towards it, and with fire magic brimming from my hands and I incinerated the chimera. Nothing remained from the chimera but ash and... a small metallic link.


    The battle was over. And Reiko and I collapsed from exhaustion. But I was caught by Trent and Toby, while Claire and Hanabi helped Reiko.


    "You okay?" Hanabi asked Reiko, her face was riddled with worry, relief, and possibly anger.


    "A bit sore... But I''ll live. Thanks Hanabi." Reiko replied weakly.


    I looked at my friends, they seem... gaunt for some reason. And when they stared at me, they all frowned. Like I was a disappointing piece of meat.


    "H-hey guys." I said weakly and they exploded. Telling me off about not sending an SOS signal or maybe even trying to establish a connection.


    "We all thought you were dead, you idiot!" Toby said, his usual smiling self was gone without any trace at all.


    "Captain Ventus was blaming himself, and he hasn''t been functioning very well ever since." Leo informed me.


    "Was he overexaggerating a bit?" I asked.


    Claire shakes her head. "Ever since you went MIA, his actions in Senzakura were a bit... concerning. He became highly aggressive when it came to missions concerning the rainforest."


    "You were part of his responsibility Yman. It will be a big red flag for everyone if he didn''t care for his subordinates." Leo puts in.


    I let that sink in. Captain Ventus was acting out of character? Well to be fair, I never knew him as his maker. But as his subordinate, he was upbeat. Caring. Why the sudden attitude change?


    "I''ll make sure to apologize." I promised them, but I heard a strong gagging sound and I did a 180. Reiko wasn''t doing too good, and sure enough. The Violet Plague was eating his body.


    "W-what is this? I never seen this kind of affliction before!" Hanabi said and she tried to touch Reiko but Trent stopped her.


    "It''s called the Violet Plague... A dangerous disease caused by contamination from Chimera blood." Lord Arbor spoke, and as the vines withered away as I saw him injured and bleeding. My vision narrowed and blurred. I tried to rush for him, but my legs wouldn''t budge. Instead, I fell face down.


    "Help me up... Please. I have to save him!" I pleaded and Leo help me stand. He and I trudge towards the Serpent God, his wounds were so grave that even with Hanabi''s healing magic won''t be able to salvage him. The Lord of the Forest looked at me, his eyes fading in color.


    "Child of man... You... Why the sad expression, surely you know this would happen?" He asked. And I was bewildered. I grit my teeth and placed my hand on the serpent god''s snout.


    "Arbor, save your strength." I said, I think it was either dementia or delirium.


    "I''m afraid I don''t have that luxury anymore. Child of man... No. Yman Caliesto. Listen to my final request. I want you to sever the Vow of Apostleship." Arbor said weakly. Hearing that, Reiko looks up and:


    "Don''t do it! I won''t forgive you if you do!!" He shouts.


    "If I die, he dies with me. But there is another catch. The Rainforest... From it''s roots and it''s fauna, they will be changed. The rain will intensify further, the flowers that bloomed will wither, and the animals that thrived will go berserk and attack Senzakura. Even with its defenses, it will be overwhelmed indefinitely." Arbor said forebodingly. "And soon, the rest of the world will suffer too. I''m sure you realized that..."


    I grit my teeth. If Arbor was determined. Then... I have no other say in the matter. I looked at Reiko and apologized through my eyes and with a heavy heart, I opened my Grimoire.


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    "YMAN DON''T DO IT!" Reiko shouts.


    "Destiny Editor." I whispered and Leo, who was beside me, gave me a shocked look as a blinding light engulfed me and Arbor''s body.


    When the light died down, the land that I was standing on was so bright it had no room for any shadows. My head felt heavy, and my heart was beating faster, something''s wrong with this place. It felt different from when I was inside Arthur''s cognition. Possibly because I was inside a deity''s fate. But I shook off those feelings and glared at the figure that was sitting on the throne. Arbor''s Incorrupti. It took the form of a young man, its slits were snake-like and his hair was bright green.


    "Welcome... frankly this is the first time I''ve received visitors. And not incorrupti at that." It said but it didn''t stand up. The incorrupti was also suffering from the violet plague it seems. As if mirroring Arbor''s dying state. "I am the Incorrupti of the Kusanagi Rainforest, the destiny of the God of the Forest. Invidia... you may call me by that name."


    I shook my head in great disapproval. And used;


    -Scry-


    Name: Invidia


    Family: Incorruptus


    Level: 35


    Skills: Anecdote of Interrogation, Invocation: Infusion


    "You don''t look surprised, human..." Invidia said. Its expression was perplexed.


    "You''re not the first Incorruptus I''ve faced. And certainly won''t be the last." I said and readied my grimoire but it only raised its hand.


    "So you''ve met Ira first. That warmonger..." It said and coughs. I hesitated a bit. Is it putting up a front?


    "I have nothing to say to stay your distrust. But please... Hear me out. Child of Man." It said and I grit my teeth.


    "My name is Yman Caliesto. And stop trying to copy Arbor!" I shout. The space''s silence was deafening.


    "Understood. Now... what are you doing here?" It asked and I explained to it my goal. It pondered a bit and gave me a silent stare.


    "I''m not asking for your cooperation, but I need to save someone." I said.


    "By using the power to reshape destiny? Are you sure you''re not just absolving your guilty conscience?" It asked.


    "This isn''t up for any discussion nor any debate." My voice was shaking and my fingers were digging in my palms. My ears were ringing and my heart was pounding in my chest.


    "No matter how much you try to convince yourself. You are holding yourself accountable for this beyond your control, thus making yourself responsible for things that are relatively unrelated to you." It said.


    "Shut up..." I whispered.


    "And now... You are trying to use a power that isn''t yours to begin with. Carelessly weaving elemental energy, hopelessly sticking your nose in others business. And to make matters worse, trying to impersonate the Primordial One. A power that isn''t yours to use originally."


    As soon as it said the word Impersonation. I stomped my foot on the ground, and a shockwave ruptures the whole space. My hands were shaking, my blood boiling from anger... from the guilt.


    "Impersonate? Me?" I was ticked off, this was MY novel. How dare this... thing call me a fake. "Fuck off..."


    I was so angry that I struck down the incorrupti with Fire Magic. The incorrupti skids across the floor, its form dissipating from the shock of the attack. But it looked at me with eyes full of pity.


    "You do possess some of the traits I know that is similar to the Primordial One. But yours feels... Disconnected. Uneven. Tragic..." Invidia said.


    "You know nothing." I growled.


    "The more you resist. The less you''ll know. Tell me... Have you ever considered every angle of your current situation?" The Incorruptus asked.


    "Listen... I know what happened to me back then. But if there is a chance for me to go home. I''ll take it. But for now... This takes priority." I said and then something went wrong. My head began to scream in pain, and my vision became blurry. A strong ringing sound was making the disorientation worse.


    "And that was the third question. Sleep well... Yman Caliesto. Soon... You will know that some fates. Are beyond you." Invidia said as my vision was getting hazier.


    I woke up from the sound of an alarm. Wait... that tone?


    I sat up bolt, turned around and reached for my glasses. And what was before me was... My room. And not the bunk room of the novel... But the room I stayed in reality.


    I pinched myself, heck I even slapped myself. It stung. Was this for real? Am I... Am I really back?!


    I went out of the room and was greeted by the lemon zest air freshener I always bought at the local convenience store, the ambient serenity of my apartment.


    The ringing of the phone startled the bajeebers out of me and I rushed to answer it.


    "Finally you answered. Do you have any idea how worried mom was for his filial son?" That voice... It was the first time in many months since I''ve heard that voice.


    "Dad? Is that you?" I asked, my voice was shaking.


    "Huh? Did you smack your head or something stupid brat? Anyways, your mom''s worried sick. Come home once in a while."


    Dad''s voice... I never thought I''d hear it again. From the excitement, I looked at my phone. It was the day after I got hit by lightning. Wait... I did get hit by lightning. But my body looks fine and physically well too.


    My phone had one notification. It was my boss. My request for leave was granted and I don''t have to go to work today. This... is actually good. I was back. I''m... I''m home.


    I was finally back home.