《Magnum Opus》


 Prologue

    If you hear this message, it means you made it out alive most likely by the grace of my master and that the incantations I laid on you have worked. There is no reason to fear Kyle because I am you, just a different older version.


    Let me explain how we got here. I spent so many years my sole aim to reach the pinnacle of magic. Day in day out, studying, gathering the resources necessary to hone my craft.


    But several months ago, my core matrix started to warn me of danger, Courtesy of my jade eye soulution skill sight beyond sight, which gave me the benefits of a type of clairvoyance. You don''t get to the level of a Great Mage if you don''t have keen instincts.


    The minute I got my first warning, I stopped preparing to ascend to a High Mage and put all my focus on figuring out what I was being warned about.


    In the following days I scryed prying into every nook and cranny of the future I could see. It came as a great shock to me that my fellow disciple had plotted my downfall, not only that. But that he had succeeded, once I caught a glimpse of what had been well hidden from me. The whole plot rolled out before my eyes, how I had been lied to and used to weaken my master''s position on the council of the orthodoxy. The scheme started with My brother disciple had my masters notice of assignment forged to investigate Dusk valley and black magic.


    I spent five years researching Warlocks and the intricacies of their black magic; How they use a potion called dusky hemlock to transform their bodies subtly. So they can feed off negative emotions, which they use to pollute the mana in their core matrix to turn it into negative energy to power their spells.


    How warlocks use their soulution dark heart''s skill, miasma clout To corrupt the ambient mana of Dusk valley, Significantly weakening anything reliant on mana. The corrosive effects of miasma get stronger the deeper you go into Dusk valley, Making it an almost impenetrable stronghold against non-warlocks.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Until I found out a shocking secret, on the cusp of birth of the orthodoxy, it was not seven guilds that came together to form the orthodox council and to create the first version of the accords. But eight the guild was called Midnight Haze, the fact that most of their members were not magi but warlocks.


    The seven other guilds led by the Rising Sun demanded an explanation for their betrayal. Preparing to strike they were caught off guard, by the power coming from the guild leader Amond Velte. He and his warlocks disappeared in a wave of negative energy.


    Later, when the seven guilds raided the Midnight hazes guild house, they found evidence. That Amond Velte had secretly been studying the dark heart soulution not just him but all of Midnight haze had been studying, learning and changing it for their use for many years. Amond was the first successful by-product of that research the first Dark Magus. Instead of using a potion to transform their bodies, they focused on using runes to copy its effects and the abilities of warlocks, while keeping their ability to use pure mana.


    After finding out the truth of Midnight hazes treacherous actions, the orthodoxy finalized their internal agreements. They Whipped all traces of Midnight haze from history, hiding their embarrassment. Ultimately putting the matter behind them. Letting pride cloud their judgment they never wondered where the Dark magus Amond took his guild or why they never appeared again. This was my downfall, researching black magic without the council''s approval and find out about the secret shame of the orthodoxy.


    There is so much I want to say even if it''s only to myself, but they should be here soon. I''ll leave you with a quick summary of the major incantations I''ve laid on you.


    While there are only two major incarnations, there are several minor and even more lesser ones. The first major incantation is voidial treetus. It''s what I consider my personal masterpiece. It controls and houses all the other incarnations while simultaneously hiding them from prying eyes. The second major incantation is, reincarnation gambit; it''s usually, only used by magi close to death. To use it, one must sacrifice all their mana and core matrix to the incantation, while sealing their memories until they form their core matrix. In return, one''s body is brought back to its peak form, another chance at life. But not many use it do to its steep price.


    I hope the plans I''ve set up for you to help you reach higher than I did and farewell.

 1.1

    Ouch, putting my hand to my temple, hoping to soothe some of the pain. I take in my surroundings. I''m in a small but modest room. I think the walls and floor might be made of stone. Sliding off the edge of the bed on to the, I let a breath out as I struggled to my feet. I couldn''t figure out why I felt so weak, way to go past me and thanks for the heads up.


    Shuffling my way to a full-Length mirror I take in my new appearance it feels so weird in my memory. I was just picked up by a wandering Magus, who planned to take me to her guild. The day before I was just working on my family''s farm, skin bronzed from the sun and a body built for farm work. Now I''m pale and thin with bone grey hair like I''ve never seen the sun. Ugh.. what did my past self do I look horrible!


    With a creak, the door to the room swung in, a man short and stout is the best way I can describe him came through the entryway pausing as he took in my disgruntled figure.


    With gusto, He said, "Oh, you''re awake, Great! I was worried, long-distance teleportation can be very tiring normally. But you''ve been unconscious for days I haven''t seen a case of teleportation sickness this bad in years."


    ¡°Umm..¡±


    What am I supposed to say? I have no clue who this man is, where this is, or what teleportation is. Do not panic!... I''m panicking!


    Grabbing my chest, I stutter out, "My chest... I.. I.. I don''t think I''m getting enough air."


    The man clapped me on the shoulder with his ham-hawk like palm "Calm down lad no need to rush, take a slow deep breath. My name is Mancin Hayward; luckily, your guardian said your memory might be all jumbled up. From the accident, or I''d think you were a basket case."


    Bending over, putting my hands on my knees trying to catch my breath I wheeze out


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.¡°Right. Right. Deep breaths, should they hurt and accident?¡±


    "Hmm, let me see, yes an accident. I don''t know all the details. Your guardian said something about an experiment that went bad. Maybe I should have asked more questions. How about you take a seat and I''ll perform a more in-depth inspection " He said his voice laced with worry.


    Walking back to the bed was a struggle, thankfully Mr. Mancin was there to give me a helping hand. Sitting down was a relief; it''s like I could feel the strain on my body lesson. Mr. Mancin''s hands start to glow as they weaved and bobbed over my chest. With a scowl, his eyes began to glow a blue hue to match his hands. He began to scan my whole body.


    Taking a step back the light from his eyes and hands faded he said " hmm, there is very fine scaring laced through your body but its densest in your chest. I''m not sure what to make of this. Unfortunately, my specialty does not lay in healing. Let me go find a healer to see if they can figure out what''s going on."


    Twisting the material of my pants nervously. I said, "umm, ok, is that bad cause that sounds serious."


    "No, no it''s not bad, the scaring seems to be healing, I''d like to get a professional opinion. You wait right here I''ll be back as soon as I grab a healer."


    "Oh, okay, I will."


    I am left with my thoughts, as Mr. Mancin walked out the door. I wondered what my past self. Had done to my body and if it was going to be okay. The silence was going to kill me, with all the what-ifs floating through my head. Hearing loud noises coming from outside the door. A loud bang rang out as the door hit the wall behind it.


    Four people barged in, at least I saw the somewhat familiar face of Mr. Mancin, he didn''t look very happy.


    Putting his hand on the young girl''s shoulder. He said, "Sigh, I''m sorry, Kyle, this is my daughter Madison Hayward she can be a bit rowdy."


    Raping his other arm around the older lady''s waste. He said, " and this here is my wife, Daphnia Hayward, the most talented Witch in our guild if I do say so myself."


    Taking his hand off Madison''s shoulder, he grasped the last person of the group by the back of the neck and said with a smile " this strapping tall lad here is the current pride, joy and son of our guild leader, Alfred Fowntain."


    I wouldn''t say I''m the nervous sort, but basically having your mind scrambled and be being put. Into a completely foreign environment would put anyone off.


    "It"s nice to meet you all." I said, with an awkward wave.

 1.2

    Taking his arm from around Mrs. Daphnia and taking Alfred and Madison by the shoulders, Mancin said sternly ¡°Now I told you both, but mainly you Madison that he needed rest and not to bother him.¡±


    Madison looking offended she said ¡°dad, how could you say that about me I am not a bother?¡±


    "Really, Maddy let''s go I''m sure Kyle will love talking to you after he gets better and the okay from your mother." Alfred said as he pulled Madison towards the door.


    Turning halfway around as she was dragged from the room. Madison looked at me and said, " it was nice meeting you Kyle I''m sure we''re going to be great friends, forgive Alf for being standoffish he isn''t mean, he''s just stuffy."


    Then they were gone, leaving me with only the Hayward couple and awkward silence. Broken by the swish of Mrs. Daphnia''s forest green robe, as she gracefully strode to my bedside.


    Taking a seat next to me, she said. " I''m sorry about my daughter, she has always been a bit of a firecracker, but she gets it from her father."


    Mr. Mancin gave his wife an affronted look as He said. " Oh she gets it from me, does she. I quite clearly, remember someone. Hexing a whole dorm full of students for calling her roses gaudy."


    Shooting her husband a glare She said. " how could you bring up that old story, I think I remember a certain someone attempting to burn a man''s guild house down because he said something rude about his wife."


    Looking embarrassed, He said, "Daphnia, my love, we could go down memory lane all day. but we''re here for you to check out Kyle."


    Their playful banter helped me release the tension; I had been feeling. I couldn''t help but laugh, Catching my breath. I said, "Mrs. Daphnia, are you the healer Mr. Mancin said he was going to get?This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    Mrs. Daphnia turned to me giving me a smile she said " that''s better not so tense, Kyle there is no need to call us Mr. or Mrs. just using our names will do, and yes I am. I was raised by the Nature faction of the guild Coven and am a plant witch. Let''s just say I have quite a few spells, in my arsenal for healing among other things.


    Not knowing what that all means. I said, "Wow, that sounds amazing!"


    Letting out a pleased laugh. She said, "I wouldn''t go as far as to say amazing, but it has gotten me out of some tough situations. Now let''s see if we can find out what''s going on with you, shall we?"


    She was staring at me deeply, and before I knew what was going on. I was glowing, in all sorts of different shades of green. It just kept getting brighter until all I saw was green. I felt myself starting to panic again, but before I could set into a full-blown panic attack. A soothing wave flowed through me. I felt myself falling than a snapping sensation. Then everything returned to normal, I could see normally again, and I wasn''t glowing.


    Her hand fell from my shoulder as. She said, "I apologize, I didn''t realize how sensitive you would be too mana. On the other hand, I have good news and bad news, which would you like to hear first?"


    With my fingers grinding into my palms. I said, "Umm, tell me the bad news first, then the good."


    Patting me on the leg, she said " there''s no reason to worry, the bad news is I couldn''t figure out what exactly happened to cause your scaring. I did, however, find that the scarring is healing quite fast. Most likely, due to the fact that you have o.m.s, which is short for over-mana-saturation. In easier terms to understand, your body had a large amount of mana shoved into it.


    Human bodies just aren''t meant to hold mana naturally. So when your body was forced to bear such a large amount of mana. Instead of burning up, it tried to pass it through as safely as possible. Leaving you with internal scarring and a bad case of heightened mana sensitivity, you''re quite lucky most people die from o.m.s.."


    Coughing gruffly Mancin said, " dear, your rambling and probably scarring poor Kyle here."


    Looking embarrassed, Daphnia said, "oops, I''m so sorry, I tend to ramble on when it comes to anything to do with healing."


    Hurrying to reassure her I said, " no, no, it''s not a problem, I''m just glad it''s not permanent, and I''ll get better.. I will get better right?"


    The couple was shooting looks at each other, silently communicating, what I don''t know, but it made my stomach feel hollow.

 1.3

    Her eyes, flickering with a hint of sadness. Daphnia said, "overall, you will get better, but your body will not be the same. Physically speaking, you will be weaker than average, and you will always be highly sensitive to mana. The issues your having now aren''t from the scarring but from the fact that they''re still raw. You should be able to walk with very little trouble as early as tomorrow, but it could take a few days."


    I released a punt up sigh in relief, at least I''m not dying, looking at Daphnia I said ¡°thank you for giving me some answers. But where does that leave me, I almost blacked out just from your mana?¡±


    Letting out a sigh, she said, "Well it makes sense why your guardian sent you here. Coming from the High Cliff Province probably means your guardian was a Shaman. I''m sorry to say, even if your scars heal. The pathways that the mana took through your body. Will always be there, and that''s where your physical weakness comes from. Even if you persisted on becoming a Shaman, with your condition, there would be a very little chance of you becoming a successful Shaman. But with your heightened mana sensitivity, you could make great strides in becoming a Magus. Only if you choose to take that path, it would also help you handle your mana sensitivity."


    As Mancin shot me a look of sympathy, He said, "Dear your rambling again, I''m sorry Kyle, she gets carried away but she means well."


    With a staunch look on her face, she said, "I was not rambling, I was trying my best to explain Kyle''s circumstances to him. So he understands why I suggest he becomes a Magus."


    Looking sheepish, he said, "Right. Ok. I was just worried that it''s a bit much for him to take in, especially under these circumstances."


    Before Daphnia could respond, I said, "It''s okay, I asked for more information, and she gave it to me. Sure it''s a little confusing, but it gives me a starting point to figure out what I should do."Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    Daphnia shot her husband a triumphant look as She said, "See dear, he appreciates my knowledge and guidance."


    Mancin put his palm to his face mumbling, jokingly, he said "I give up, go along on your merry way. It''s been a long day. I don''t need the added stress of monitoring both you and Madison."


    I feel somewhat bad, I''ve probably been a considerable drain on his time since I''ve got here. Being unconscious and all, then when I wake up. I''m physically speaking nearly completely crippled. Speaking of days, that reminds me to ask about the time, there were no windows in this room, so I couldn''t tell what time of day it was. For that matter, I don''t even know what year it is, if it weren''t bad luck I''d curse my past self.


    She said "I might be a little long-winded, but your dramatic and you wonder where Madison gets it from. But you were right about one thing."


    Getting up and turning to look at me she said "Kyle here, just woke up and the best thing for him right now is rest. You hear me, young man, No gallivanting around and the less stress you put on your body, the better.


    Looking up at her, I said, "Yes, Daphnia, that reminds me though what time is it anyway?"


    I didn''t want to reveal how off my memory was, but I figured it was okay to at least ask about the time.


    Coming forward Mancin said " I completely forgot there were no windows in here, it must be pretty disorienting. Let me see here; it''s just a little past seven at night. I hope that helps. Oh, that reminds me!"


    As the ring on his right hand started to shine, and he reached towards me, a bracelet appearing in his hand. He said, "Here, your guardian said he forgot to give you this spatial focus before you left. So he sent it here right after you left, but you''ve been unconscious, so I''ve been holding on to it for you. I''m glad remembered to give it to you, it''s well made."


    Taking the offered focus in my hand, it felt light. I wanted to ask what it was and what I was supposed to do with it, but before I could.


    With a knowing smile, Daphnia said "It''s already been bound to you. Your guardian must have been working on it for a while. All you have to do is put it on, and you''ll be able to use it.

 1.4

    "I''m sure things seem confusing and hard to handle after all your life has been completely upended. But I''m sure everything will settle down, and it won''t be so bad and if you need anything, pull one of the petals." Daphnia said as she swung her glowing hand. Towards the small desk in the corner, a little flower appeared.


    I know she said I should become a Magus, and my past self stated I should go down that path too. But being a Witch sounded and looked like a good choice also. I mean being able to heal people is cool, and summoning plants is awesome. I wonder what other things witches can do.


    Looking at Daphnia and Mancin getting a little emotional. I said, "I know we don''t know each other very well, but I just wanted to say thank you. You guys took care of me while I was unconscious, and you''ve both made me feel welcome here."


    Daphnia swooped down, giving me a motherly hug. She said, "Oh sweetling it''s not a problem, your so young and to be going through all of this by yourself, it hurts my heart. I know I don''t know the details of your life before you came here, or what accident you were in that caused your o.m.s. But what kind of guardian sends their wounded charge, through a teleportation array, alone to a foreign place."


    "Daphnia, my dearest, you can''t judge a person based on unfounded speculation, and you said you don''t know what happened. I think it''s wise not to make assumptions, don''t you? That being said, Kyle, I''ve been Merchant even longer than I''ve been a Magus. I''m great at reading people, and I can tell, you lad have a good heart." Mancin said he gave me a warm smile as he gently placed his hand on Daphnia''s shoulder.


    Letting out a sigh Daphnia stood, fixing her ruffled robes. She said, "Your right, I don''t know the details, but I still don''t agree with it. But that''s neither here nor there, Kyle I want you to know as long as you''re here in Free city, you can count on us for aid.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Smiling at her. I said, "Thanks, Daphnia, I do have a question. I''m sure I haven''t seen all the magical things you''re capable of. But seeing as you can heal people and summon plants which I find amazing. I was wondering if I could become a Witch too?"


    Seeing the expressions on their faces, I had a horrible feeling. That my dreams of being a walking forest, are about to be crushed. It''s okay though, and it''s not like I don''t have other options.


    Taking a quick look at Mancin, as a slight frown appeared on her face. Daphnia said, "I''m flattered that you were, inspired by me. but.. well... I''m just going to say it; I don''t think you should go down the path of a Witch. First and foremost, Witches don''t store mana internally; they use their familiars to hold it for them. So becoming a Witch wouldn''t help with your, heightened mana sensitivity. Secondly, the path of the Witch is usually started at birth. You would be put at a great disadvantage."


    Looking down, trying my best to smile. I said, "It''s okay, I guess, it''s just my luck. I wouldn''t be able to become a Witch, but I still become a Magus."


    Letting out a sigh, Mancin said, "With my beautiful and talented wife as a role model. I can understand why you would want to become a Witch and not an old boring Magus like me."


    Shooting her husband a look Daphnia said, "Don''t listen to that blockhead, he might not seem very interesting, but I promise you he is definitely a talented Magus. Honestly speaking going down the Magus path, is really your only option to lead a successful life with anything to do with mana. Not that success is what''s important, but I figured you should know the truth now rather than get your hopes up later."


    Lifting my head, I said, "Your right, Daphnia, I want to be able to do magic, and if I''m going to do anything. I mise well be good at it, if that means being a Magus it''s not the end of the world.


    Looking at me with smiles on their face almost in unison, they said, "That''s the spirit."


    I feel like my past self somehow planned this, I mean what are the chances that the only way I can overcome his level is by being a Magus. But I''m not going to mope around feeling sorry for myself, that''s for sure.

 1.5

    Still smiling Daphnia said, "I like your attitude, you''ll see all the different paths are capable of great things. I wish we could talk longer, but you should get some rest if you want to heal. Plus there are still some things we have to do for the guild, so I''ll be taking this lug with me. But if you need anything, anything at all just pull a petal from the flower, and one of us will be here."


    Left alone again, at least this time I have something to occupy my mind. Flipping the, what did they call it again, oh ya spacial focus. It basically looks like a bracelet cuff, three bands of different sized metal laid on top of one another. With the thickest being on the bottom, it has a weird hexagon shape on the top. At least from what Daphnia and Mancin said it should be a good quality item.


    I know I''m dragging my feet but if this came from my mysterious guardian. Who in fact is just my past self, I''m sure I''m in for another wonderful surprise. Biting the arrow as great Gramps used to say, slipping the bracelet over my left hand. It let off a soft light as it shrunk to fit my wrist perfectly, although it pains me to say it, even if my past self made this, that it''s still pretty cool. Just as the glow faded, my vision began to blur, and a very familiar feeling washed over me, as a voice started talking.


    "If your getting this message it means not only have you made it to the Free city but also to the Merchant guild Sundry Chamber. It''s the third-tier guild I chose to receive you after you were sent to Free city. They have deep roots there, are highly regarded as trustworthy and are known to house clients until they meet the


    requirements for residency in Free city.¡±


    "Which serves your needs perfectly. The first seal on your memory contains both the information I thought important about Free city. As well as other miscellaneous knowledge about the world, that wouldn''t have matched your new/old age. Had the Jade Palace bothered to follow you after sending you to wherever they had sent you to die of old age."


    "Hopefully the reincarnation gambit incantation worked as I intended and you are a young lad in the prime of his life ready to dive headfirst into the world of Magic. I hope you can unlock the second seal on your memory soon. It just requires you to be able to sense mana. It contains all my knowledge on the acolyte level, which will not only help you in reaching apprentice-level quickly it will also give you a sturdy foundation of knowledge to build your success no matter what path you take."Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    As my vision cleared, a slight discomfort settled behind my eyes, but I wasn''t even that bothered. It felt great not to be so lost about where I was and what I should do next. But before I could enjoy my newly acquired knowledge, my vision started to blur, and I heard my past selves voice again.


    "Congratulations Kyle for unlocking the second seal and gaining my knowledge of the acolyte level. There a lot there so it might take you some time to adjust and really make some of that knowledge more like instinct. To unlock the third seal on your memory, just use the mana you''ll eventually draw into yourself and craft your first rune. Remember, you might have all the knowledge but don''t be in a rush; it could lead to flaws."


    My sight returned, but the slight discomfort I felt before had transformed into a searing pain that covered my whole head ¡ª trying my best to breathe, as I tried to find a comfortable position, that didn''t make my head feel like it was exploding. Failing to find that, I laid down as the storm of pain arched across my nerves.


    As the minutes ticked by, I felt the pain lessen, from all-encompassing to more of an ice pick shoved between the eyes. Which by this point I even find it manageable, debating on the merits of getting up and pulling one of those petals. Choices, I''d hate to ask for help, when It''s not even that serious.


    I''ve already taken up enough of Daphnia''s and Mancin''s time. Deciding instead to use some of my new knowledge or should I say required knowledge. I try to push the pain out of my mind, using a deep breathing-mantra meant for meditation.


    Coming to groggily, rubbing my eyes, I don''t know when I passed out, but I felt a hundred times better now that''s for sure. Pulling myself sideways into a sitting position, I go over what could have gone wrong and come to the conclusion that what my past self said was correct. Maybe more so in some areas than others, the seals on my memory aren''t seals per say. A better way to put it would be they are seals but there also vessels. Holding my past selves knowledge within the voidial treetus.

 1.6

    Taking in the room now that I was alone and not so mentally overwhelmed, really taking it in. I watched colors flow here and there, overlapping not just the furniture in the room but its walls and floor even the air. Some were stronger than others, much of the room was awash with bright green and to a lesser extent a neon blue color. While there were other threads and patches of color, they were mostly faded and quite sparse.


    I know I shouldn''t be surprised, but it felt so new even with the memories, I''m still amazed by what I saw. With what I now know as mana sight, which is one of the most basic spells to cast in any path. Except I don''t have to cast any spells to use it, I didn''t just get heightened mana sensitivity from the o.m.s. I also Gained the talent to see mana, its properties, and traces, naturally. Turning down my perception of my talent, all the overbearing colors mostly disappear from my vision.


    I was interrupted in my exploration of my talent, by the door opening quietly, as I heard two familiar voices arguing softly. The toneless voice of Alfred came from beyond the opening door. "Maddy, your parents are going to kill us if they find out we came here without their permission." "No, they won''t, we''re just here to see if Kyle would like to maybe, get cleaned up and get some fresh air. Stop being a stick in the mud. I can''t imagine being stuck in this room for so long." She said irritatedly.


    I couldn''t help but laugh if this is what they call sneaking around, it could use some work. Their argument stopped as they came into the room, no doubt startled by my laughter.


    Madison looks somewhat embarrassed, said, " Umm¡­ we umm¡­" coughing patting her fist against her chest. She said, " sorry I had something stuck in my throat, what I was trying to say was. Are you interested in getting out of here maybe stop by the Marble halls for a quick shower and a change of clothes? Then we could show you around our little portion of the free city, just think of us as friendly neighborhood tour guides."


    Hmm, let me think, on the one hand, I''m sure Daphnia and by extension Mancin, won''t be happy about me leaving. But on the other, I''ll be able to get out of this rooms stretch my legs a little, see some of the sites. Even my past self hadn''t physically been here before. It could be fun and just the thing to unwind after last nights trauma.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    Getting up and giving my best smile, I said, "Okay, I''m up for a tour." "Yes, come on, let''s get going." she said, nearly screaming rushing forward to grab my arm. Pulling back, I said, "Hold on, let me write a note to your parents. I''m going with you."


    "Ugh! So boring, you sound like Alf." She said, rolling her eyes.


    I barely had time to find a piece of paper and scribble out a short message. Before I was yanked out of the room by Madison, this seemed more like a kidnapping than a tour. I wasn''t complaining. We might be in a hallway, but it felt less stuffy than that room, that''s for sure. After several turns and just as many stretches of the straight corridor, we came out onto a busy side street that was bustling with people.


    Giving my arm another tug, she said, "Come on this way, we''re almost there."


    Twisting and turning through streets, alleys, and even buildings, which I think I would have been surprised by if I didn''t know that Free city, has grown through the years instead of building new levels all at once. It''s more like a Hodgepodge of buildings smashed and stacked together using a variety of materials. It''s rumored parts of the city are held together by nothing but a few runes and dense pockets of mana.


    Just passing, through our twenty-ninth turn, if I was keeping count right. I noticed that the dingy grey cobblestone had cutoff, in its place was black and white marble. Looking at me with a proud smile, waving her arm in a showman style, Madison said, " Welcome! to the Marble Hall, the best place to get really clean and relax in the west-end of Free city." Turning to the ever quite Alfred, She said, "Could you show him to the stalls. I forgot to grab him a change of cloth?"


    She didn''t even wait for his response before she was running off, to who knows where. Alfred let out a sigh as he grabbed my already sore arm pulling me deeper into the Marble hall, what''s with these two and the pulling.


    At first, I was a little uncomfortable thinking we were going to the communal bathing area. But then we passed the giant water pools set in jet black marble, hidden behind gauzy drapes hanging from marble pillars. So the baths were out I wonder where Alfred is taking me then, I don''t remember much of anything about this place I thought, irritatedly.

 1.7

    I guess I shouldn''t be surprised, my past self was a Great Magus and most likely not concerning himself. With taking care of basic needs like showering, when you can use spells, to make all those pesky mundane problems disappear. Jarred by our sudden stop, I had been to lost in my thoughts to notice we had left ¡ª the more open and obviously communal area of the Marble Hall for a more private Corredor. Made of dark grey marble, lined by doors on both sides and enchanted lights across the ceiling, it was very muted.


    Alfred silently waved at the door we had stopped in front of, obviously signaling me to enter. Looking at him for clarification, I said, "You want me to go in there, right?"


    In a gravelly tone of disuse, He said, "Yes, I''ll wait here, you can find a change of cloth in the locker, and you can just throw what you''re wearing now in the bin."


    Looking confused, I said "hold on, if there''s a change of clothes in there why did Madison have to run and get different ones. Also, how do I open the door, there''s no handle?" looking irritated He said, " It''s not like she gave me a chance to tell her anything before she ran off. Do you really think Daphnia and Mancin don''t know their daughter? By the second day, you were here and had to tell her where they kept randomly going off to. Knowing Maddy''s previous stunts, they had you added to their personal invite-list for Marble hall, to save themselves some hassle."


    Well, that explains a lot and isn''t surprising, thinking about it they seem the type. Smiling at him, blatantly ignoring his irritation, I said, "Thank you, I hope I''m not keeping you from something important."


    He didn''t respond, but I wasn''t expecting that anyway, already heading towards the door. I almost tripped, I wasn''t prepared for it to ripple out of my way, maybe slide or open by itself. But Definitely not for it to turn to water and part down the middle, I don''t think I remember an enchantment for that. But after so many let downs, I Mise well take it in stride. Entering the lavatory, as the door flowed back together, I took in the room, it''s white marble backdrop and dark wood furnishings. Didn''t match the hallway at all, quickly undressing I tossed my clothes into the tube-like hamper.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Heading for the shower stall, I caught my reflection in a full-length mirror. I wonder if I could use my talent on my reflection, turning to face the mirror. I tap into my talent, slowly raising my perception of mana. After adjusting to the ambient mana, I''m able to see my reflection overlapped by mana. The scarring left by the o.m.s isn''t very vibrant, it''s more like trails of shimmering dust flowing throughout my body. Following the paths, it''s easy to see where the scarring has healed and where it''s still a little raw.


    After readjusting my perception of mana to a more bearable level, I head to the shower stall lining the back of the room. The minute I stepped into the stall, water started pouring from the ceiling washing over me. It smelt like lavender and mint. Not knowing this enchantment either but not caring as I lost myself in relaxation, it was just so peaceful.


    Thinking about the third seal on my memories, I wondered how long I should wait to condense a rune inside my body. Knowing the steps is the easy part but the possible repercussions from unlocking the seal. It definitely made me worried, adding all that knowledge at once, especially while my mind is still recovering from unlocking two seals so close together. Just to be on the safe side I''ll wait a month, that''s not too long, and it gives me time to make sure my body is just as ready as my mind.


    Getting out of the shower, I felt even better than I did this morning, my mind felt refreshed, and I felt less worried about my future. I had forgotten to look for a towel, leaving the tile section outside the shower to look for one in the cabinet. The minute I stepped onto the dark wooden boards, they flashed a bright white color. Bathing my body in their light for just a few seconds, leaving me perfectly dry. At least this enchantment is familiar, or at least its effects are. If I remember correctly it''s called Desert-b1 a very common enchantment.


    Opening the cabinet, I found a stack of clothes pulling out the shirt. First, I slipped it on, it was a little loose, but it felt so soft. Pulling on the pants, sure they were a bit baggy, but they were comfortable. Going back to look in the mirror, while they don''t look bad, The muddy browns and beige tones didn''t help me look healthy. Laughing, feeling content, I head towards the door to leave.

 1.8

    Stepping out of the lavatory, I caught sight of a glowing red sphere heading towards Alfred. It was obviously a tracking spell, probably orb-H1 from the looks of it. Madison came running up to us slightly out of breath. She said, " I made it halfway there when I realized I forgot to see what your clothing size was." Bopping herself, she said, "Hey¡­ those aren''t the clothes you were wearing earlier. Alfred if you had clothes for him, why did you make me run halfway across the West End?"


    Alfred''s silent response was her only reply. Embarrassingly, she said, "Well, I guess I didn''t give you a chance did I. "You know what who cares, Kyles cleaned up and has clothes." She said. Turning around and raising her arm, She said, "Let''s head to the tavern to get some grub." Once again headed through the streets and alleyways of Free city. I honestly think you''d have to have been born here, to be able to navigate its twists and turns without magic or a guide.


    Reaching what I assume is the place we''re eating at, after fifteen or so minutes of fast-paced walking. Turning to me, Madison proudly said, "Welcome to Milken''s tavern, while not the highest class tavern they definitely take the top spot for diversity and friendliness!" Leading us through the busy tavern. "Yes I''m so lucky, this is my favorite spot, it''s the best for quick service, plus it has a great view for people watching," she said finally picking a table. Sitting down, I couldn''t stop my mouth from salivating the smells floating through the air, were delicious.


    The tinkle of silverware against our plates were the only signs food had been at the fable. I didn''t think I could feel any better after that shower I was wrong. Smiling at Madison, I said, "Thank you for the food, Madison, it was delicious." Returning my smile with a content look, She said, "It''s not a problem, I''m happy you enjoyed the food."


    Our conversation was interrupted as a small group of people came over. The tall brunette smiled and said, "Madison, Alfred, I haven''t seen you guys in forever. How have you been?" Getting up and hugging the brunette Madison said, "Oh my gosh Amber, it''s been too long, we''re doing good, how about you?" Looking back at her group, Amber said, "You guys can go on ahead. I''ll ketchup later." They gave a weird salute and left the tavern. I wonder if they are soldiers of some sort, I thought. "I''ve been good, finally managed to land my own troupe." Amber said, turning back to us.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Congratulations, I''m not surprised you were always a hard worker. Come, come, take a seat, we have so much to ketchup on." Madison said, waving at the seat across from her. "I''d love to but I can''t, we were just on a small break since we had to pick some things for Maria. We were already going to cut it pretty close as is, getting back to North port. But we definitely need to meet up, here''s my new address." Amber said, pointing at the table, as her necklace glowed and a small card appeared on its surface.


    Watching her walk away, without even acknowledging my presence at the table, left me feeling very awkward. "Who was that? She seems¡­ kinda rude." I said, turning to Madison. Emotionally she said "That was Amber Lampar, we used to hang out a lot before she officially became a junior guild member, of the adventurer guild Aquamarine. Their one of the leading forces in North port, they do a lot of work with Sundry Chamber as well. No, she''s just really focused, always has been." Uncertainly I said, "If you say so." That explains there blue and grey uniforms, but I still think she''s rude, I thought. "Good, okay, let''s head out, there are so many cool things I want to show you." She said, heading towards the counter to pay.


    The crowded streets lined with busy storefronts made a chaotic medley of constant movement and chunks of unmoving stillness. I couldn''t tell if it was the time of day that caused or if we just in a busy part of the city. Madison had been dragging me through so many stores, that I''m not even sure how long we''ve been walking.


    Coming to a quiet storefront that was definitely off the well-traveled street. Madison said, "This is Perfect potions, while not well known by most people, it''s one of Free cities best alchemical apothecaries. Instead of mass-producing potions, or making potion people order, they make tailored potions." Now, this is a shop that I can actually find interesting, not having so many people crowding around is definitely a plus.


    As we walked in, a tall, broad-shouldered man said, "Welcome to Perfect potions, but I''m sorry to say, we''re not taking any new orders right now." Glancing up from whatever he had been reading, He said, "Oh Madison, it''s you, what can I do for you today." Smiling, she said, "Nothing Sheen, I''m just showing my new friend, Kyle around and how could I not show him the best alchemical apothecary in the city." With suspicion, clearly written on his face he said "Ya right flattery, while I agree we''re are the best. Try again, what do you really want Madison?"

 1.9

    Letting out a huff of indignation, Madison said, "What I can''t just come, see a friend, to introduce another friend?" Blankly looking at her, Sheen said, "When have you ever come here without wanting something, whether a potion or information, so which is it this time?" "I''m not that bad I stay to talk after I get what I want, don''t I? Hey. I also invited you out to lunch, but you said you were busy." She said, putting her hands on her hips. Slightly embarrassed, He said, "Well, that''s true, but I still want to know what you want. I was busy. I can''t really leave the storefront when everyone else is busy."


    As they were talking, I decided to look around. Everything was made of polished wood. There were coves of varying sizes. Bearing a wide variety of plants, some even had glass domes covering them. One that really caught my eye was a small purple flower that had such strong mana fluctuations. I could see it without really tapping into my talent. But it''s still not what I expected when I heard it was an apothecary.


    Her posture relaxed as she said, "Fine, I believe you, anyway I guess your not totally wrong because I didn''t only come here to introduce you to Kyle. I also wanted to know what you could tell Alfred and me about Edens admissions test?" Sighing, He said, "You guys know, I''d love to help you out, but I can''t because I am bound by the school to not share anything with potential students." "Oh come on, can''t you tell us anything?" She said pouting. "Don''t try that face on me, I know it works on most people, but you know very well. What I meant when I said I was bound, I am under a geas not to share anything." Sighing, She said, "Fine, you can''t blame me for trying."


    Placing my hand on the counter, I said, "I hate to interrupt, and please don''t take this the wrong way but your store. Isn''t what I envisioned when I heard it with an apothecary, it''s not bad or anything, just different." Laughing loudly, he said, " It''s okay, we get that all the time here and since your friends with Madison. I''ll give you a little more detail. This shop was designed and run by my great, great, grandmother Yeta Silversmith. We just call her, great Yeta for short, she was one of the first pioneers of integrating The Witch path and the technology of the Mana Smith path.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Your great, great, grandmother sounds amazing. It''s well known that anyone pioneering a path in magic has a great mind." I said, impressed. Letting out another chuckle, Sheen said, "Thank you, I like this one Madison, he''s got a good head, the last friend you brought in here was a bad seed." With a puzzled look, she said, "Wasn''t the last person I brought in here, Alf?" Shooting Alfred, a look Sheen said, "Exactly, a non-communicative brute with the personality of a board."


    I''d have to agree, I would never say it, but he''s very standoffish, I thought.


    Looking irritated, Madison said "That''s not fair, you know Alf has proble¡­ Grabbing her arm, Alfred said, "Madison, stop, they don''t know." Looking at him with concern, She said, "I''m sorry Alfred, I forgot." Releasing her arm, He said, "It''s fine, Maddy."


    Well if that''s not interesting, so there''s a reason Alfred so cold. I smell a secret, but I''m not one to be nosy, I''m sure I''ll figure it out. Eventually, I thought.


    Just as Sheen was about to respond, the door behind us banged open, a group of people came through, they were all dressed in grey and black uniforms. The tallest one in the group stepped forward, with a sneer on his face. He said, "Well, well, look here, two duds from that washed up guild." Turning to his right, looking at a stocky looking boy. He said, "I have such a hard time remembering trash. What''s the name again, Greg?" "What did you say p, you sleaze ball Loser!?" Madison said, her face going red with anger.


    "You heard me you failed excuse for a Magus. Never mind Greg, I''d hate for you to waste the air, on such trash." If Alfred hadn''t grabbed her, Madison would have gone for his throat, it was written all over her face. "You pigeon sodden idiots! Don''t know anything." She said, her chest heaving, as she huffed uncontrollably. The group of what I know as, sleazy-pigeons surged forward in indignation, screaming over each other calling Madison names. It would have developed into a full-blown fight


    if Sheen hadn''t cast some sort of spell or maybe activated an enchantment.


    Causing everyone to freeze, He said, "There will be no fighting here, I don''t care where you come from, am I understood?" Cowed in somber tones, everyone said, "Yes." With self-assured confidence, Sheen said "Good, now, if your not here to pick up a potion you can leave or if you are here to order a potion. I''m sorry to say we aren''t taking orders right now, so you can still leave." "How dare you treat members of Ravens fare with this level of disrespect. He said spluttering. "I don''t care if you were royalty, you won''t act this way in this store," Sheen said uncaringly.

 1.10

    "Whatever I was sent here to get, I''m sure I can find it somewhere else, with higher standards. Let''s go. This place is lacking." The tall sleaze pigeon said as he and his group of followers stormed out of the apothecary.


    Her face still red with anger, Madison said, "Grrrr, why that no good two-bit flea bag.." Taking a deep calming breath as she turned towards Sheen, Madison said, "I''m so sorry, Sheen for causing you so much trouble." Smiling in return, He said "There''s no need to apologize Madison, I know his type well. He would have caused problems regardless if you were here or not." Sighing, she said, "I still feel bad, I shouldn''t have let such a slime-ball get to me." Letting out an abrupt laugh He said, "Exactly, so don''t, learn from it and then let it go."


    "You''re so right, although on that note we should probably get going, more places to show Kyle. Thank you for sparing us some of your time." She said confidently. "Umm. Before we go I was wondering if I could ask about that plant, it really caught my eye." I said, pointing towards the umbrella-like plant that had such strong mana waves. Coming out from behind the counter, reaching the plant I had pointed to. He said, " this is one, right?" "Yup that''s the one," I said, joining him by the plant.


    "This little beauty is called Manium sanaritous. It''s great for calming down chaotic mana. Usually used by practitioners to help their meditation but it''s best used in potions instead of just staying by it. Well in less you have a whole field of them, but they''re hard to grow, so I don''t see that as an option anyway." Sheen said as he gently pet its purple herbage.


    Having my past selves memories unsealed and gaining his knowledge, hasn''t been very helpful. I mean sure it''s nice, not being so lost and recognizing enchantments. But I could have missed this plant that could help me unseal the third seal even quicker. I''m definitely going to be reading up on alchemy. I thought.


    Madison must have dragged Alfred over while Sheen was talking. "Oh wow that''s really cool Sheen, I''m sure it''ll make the perfect, new friend gift for Kyle, we''ll buy it," Madison said, shooting me a knowing look. "I''m sorry Madison, but we aren''t taking any new orders right now," Sheen said, apologetically. "No, no, I''m not asking to order a potion, I just want the plant, you can do that right?" She said, slightly pleading.


    Sighing, He said, "Fine, I guess I can do that, it''s not how we normally work, but we''re friends so I''ll make an exception."The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    Taking a small crystal orb, from his work apron, it glowed as Sheen tapped it against the flower. "Yes, thank you so much!" Madison said, jumping at Sheen to give him a giant hug. "Okay, okay, here take it and get off me." He said, shoving the orb into her hands. Stepping back and looking at the orb, She said, "What do I owe you for it?" Giving madison a look, He said, "Nothing, just consider it a favor." "Thanks, I''ll owe you one," Madison said, with a wink. "Come on guys let''s go look at some other stores," Madison said, heading for the door.


    Turning back onto one of the Main Street, we traveled with the busy throng of people. I preferred the of the quiet of the apothecary. Shortly after we had made a few turns, we came to a small outcropping of stores. Madison called it small-circle, none of the stores were as nice as Perfect potions, but the people were very welcoming. While Madison stood with Alfred, haggling with one of the shopkeepers over a necklace. I wandered over to a stall covered in different pieces of enchanted equipment. Just as I was about to pick up one of the small daggers. Someone shoved me from behind, not expecting it, hitting the side of the table as I fell.


    My vision swam, as I heard someone yelling I felt a blow land, on my ribs trying my best to get up. Coughing, pain racking my body, I heard more yelling, but I was having a hard time understanding what was being said. Lost in the haze of pain, I did something I don''t remember doing before. I subconsciously reached for the mana instead of just looking at it with my talent.


    Grabbing it with my senses in a way I can''t describe, sensations exploded across my mind as I pushed the mana att unseen attacker. Finally being able to catch my breath, I heard a panicked yelp of surprise, as I struggled to stand up. I saw what I had done in my struggle to defend myself. An oblong circle was burned into the ground around me. Madison had my attacker, pinned to the ground under her red glowing heel. I noticed two things right away, one my attacker was in the same uniform as sleazy pigeons. The second was a burn mark seared on a quarter of his body.


    By the time I blinked Alfred was by my side, putting his arm under mine to help me support my tired body. He said, "Hey, deep breaths ok, I''ve gotcha. How are you doing that was a pretty strong Mana pulse." Madison turned her head in our direction. She said, "Ya, it was pretty awesome. I didn''t know you were an apprentice." Turning back to the man stuck under her spelled heel, her body casting off waves of red mana like a furnace. She said, "What in the blazes! Were you thinking, attacking someone not only unprepared but defenseless as well? Like some pathetic coward, the Raven Fare should be ashamed."


    Leaning on Alfred as I felt my body start to shake uncontrollably, with the sound of marching footsteps echoing in my ears, I barely opened my mouth to speak before. I passed out, everything fading to black.

 2.1

    ¡°Ughh my head," I said, putting my hand to my, sore temple. Waking up in strange places is starting to be a pattern, I thought. Just as my blurred vision cleared, her face blocking my view, Madison said, "Good your finally awake.¡± Turning her head, She said, "Mom, he¡¯s awake.¡± Madison quickly backed up, so her mother could take her spot by my bedside.


    Catching a glimpse of my surroundings, the first thing I took note of was that this wasn''t the room I had been staying in. Sure it was made of the same grey brick, but it was way longer, and beds lined both walls. Before I could take in more of the room, leaning over me, Daphnia said, "You poor thing, I can''t believe Raven Fare has let their member''s behavior get so bad. Listen, we don''t have much time but whatever they ask you just tell them the tru..¡±


    Daphnia was interrupted by the door to the room slamming open, in walked a man. His sturdy figure cut a strong presence in the room, he was dressed in a leather uniform with metal padding decoratively placed on his chest, shoulders, and hips.


    Following him, was a shorter man slimmer too, dressed in a layered white robe, holding a medium-sized orb in his palms.


    Coming towards daphnia, the sturdier, Man said ¡°Daphnia, please don''t contaminate my suspect, I''d hate to have to charge you for breaking the law. I''m going to need both of you to clear the room once I''m done with my interrogation you may come back in.¡± Shaking her head in agreement, Daphnia said, "Of course, Constable Sherk, we¡¯ll leave you to your work.¡± Looking at me and then Madison before she headed towards the door, She said, "Don''t worry Kyle, all you have to do is tell the truth, we¡¯ll be right outside the door. Come on, Madison, let''s let the constable do his job.¡±


    As Daphnia dragged Madison from the room, the man she called Constable Sherk flung his glowing orange hand at the door, and it slammed shut. Looking at the white-robed man, Sherk said, "Oracle, please start recording.¡± The white-robed man bent his head, while the orb in his hands started to glow, from its core with, a white light.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Turning to face me head-on, Sherk said, "Hello, Kyle Greenar, You can call me Constable Sherk, I am bound by the laws of Free city to inform you. That you are now being recorded by an oracle, from the guild Truth Scale.¡± Waving at the oracle to come forward, Sherk said, "I need to ask you some questions about the altercation that happened earlier today. Please, place your hand on the truth reading orb, so It can record the truthfulness of your answers. Placing my hand on the orb, I felt a gentle wave of mana flow through my body.


    Looking me dead in the eye, gruffly Sherk said ¡°I don''t have to, but I''m going to tell you anyway If you lie the orb will flash black and you tell the truth the orb will flash white. Now, is it true that you have reached the apprentice level?¡± ¡°No, I''m just at the acolyte level," I said, the orb flashed white, signaling the truth. Rubbing his fingers together, pondering his next question. ¡°Hmm, if you aren''t at the apprentice level, how do you explain your use of mana without a focus?¡± He said accusingly. ¡°I''m not really sure, I was in pain and confused trying to protect myself, and I felt the mana respond," I said, my tone carrying a hint of confusion.


    As the orb flashed white, He said, "Interesting, well, this is my last question for now, did you knowingly travel Free city, without your permit?¡± Looking at him uncomprehendingly, I said, "What permit?¡± Coldly looking at me, He said, "Please, just answer the question.¡± Trying to hide my irritation, I said, "No, I didn''t know anything about a permit.¡± The orb flashed white.¡°Thank you for your time if we''ll be in touch either with you or your counsel of choice.¡± He said, walking out of the room with the oracle.


    Left alone with my thoughts, I began to stew in frustration. The memories and knowledge I got, might be from my past self, but they sure don''t come easily. I basically got knocked out from one small fight, but I learned something, being able to influence mana without a focus before the apprentice level.


    Means it has to be a talent, everyone knows you can only have one talent, and I sought mine was mana sight, but I obviously was mistaken. I wonder if I could ask Daphnia about it, my past self wasn''t very interested in talents or didn''t bother giving the information in the seals I''ve already unlocked, I thought.

 2.2

    ¡°I''m so glad everything worked out like I thought it would," Daphnia said, walking back into the room followed by Madison. Swing sideways so could sit on the edge of the bed, looking at me with concern. Daphnia said, "Do you feel alright, maybe you shouldn''t get up yet?¡± In a reassuring tone, I said, "I''m okay, really, just a little shaken, that''s all.¡± Taking a seat in a chair directly across from, Looking apologetic. Daphnia said, " I''d like to apologize, it never crossed my mind that you would know about how the lockers work in Marble hall. Looking at her in confusion, I said, "What do you have to be sorry about! What does Marble hall have to do with anything that happened?¡±


    ¡°I''m sure constable Sherk asked you something about a permit, which in case you don''t know what that is. It''s a type of identification used by Free city every resident and visitor must have one if they plan on entering the city. Well, we filed for a permit for you while you were unconscious. Seeing as my daughter, was sure to hound you to go sightseeing. I figured she''d take you to the Marble Hall. First, it''s her favorite place, and you could get cleaned up there. So I got some cloth ready and your permit, and put them in our personal room and told Alfred about them. But your permit was with your shoes and a small guide book in the lower section of the locker.¡± Daphnia said, her eyes spoke volumes about how bad she felt.


    Cutting in and looking down, Madison said, "I''m sorry as well I was too excited to show you around Free city I didn''t even pay attention.¡± ¡°Alfred wanted to apologize too, but his dad came to pick him up, he definitely wasn''t happy mostly because of politics," Madison said, shrugging. ¡°Really it''s okay, I''m okay, you guys are taking this too seriously things happen but thank you for caring so much," I said, my face flushed with embarrassment.


    Looking relieved from the weight of guilt, Daphnia said, "I don''t want to pry, but I''d like to know if you''re really at the apprentice level or was the spatial focus that your guardian gave the reason you could influence mana?¡± Before I could reply, palming her forehead, Madison said ¡°I forgot about the flower we got from the apothecary, I held onto it for you, but I didn''t realize you had a spatial focus. Her necklace glowed as the Manium sanaritous appeared in her hand. Coming forward, gesturing at me, she said, "Here take it.¡±This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    Holding the plant in my hands, awkwardly looking at Daphnia and Madison. I said, "Well this is a good as time as any I guess, I just don''t know where to start, let me think. Okay, I''ve got it, I''m still a little foggy on the details, but when I put on the Spatial focus, I remembered some things, like I had been training to be a Magus and that I was at the acolyte level.¡±


    Fidgeting with the plant, I said, "But something was different after I woke up, I could see mana. I''d heard stories about talents letting people do some fantastic things without casting spells or a focus. I thought I had got the talent mana sight from the o.m.s, but when I got hit, I started to panic. Being disoriented, I felt the mana around me clearly, wanting me attacker to stay away from me I felt the mana respond.¡±


    With a thoughtful look on her face, Daphnia said, "Hmm, that explains why when I checked you over after you woke up I didn''t see any runes. I was never really interested in talents, but I know a man who should be able to find out what talent you have. If that is something, you''re interested in looking into?¡± Her eyebrows scrunching together, Madison said: "I''m so jealous you have a talent like Alfred''s vocal resonance!¡±


    Shooting her daughter, a hard stare Daphnia said, "Madison! telling someone else''s secrets is wrong even if it''s by mistake, your going to have to apologize to Alfred.¡± Turning to look at me, she said: "Could you please, promise me you won''t go sharing that information around.¡± Looking startled and slightly abashed, Madison said: "Oops it just slipped out, and I wasn''t thinking, I got too excited, I''m sorry.¡± Shaking my head reassuringly, I said: "Of course, I promise I won''t share Alfred''s secret with anybody.¡±


    ¡°Good, good, okay you two let''s head to Mancin¡¯s study, and then we can get a bite to eat," Daphnia said, heading towards the door. With a hop in her step, Madison followed behind and still holding the Manium sanaritous in my hands, I followed behind them. Once again traveling through the twists and turns of Free city. I noticed this section was enclosed in stone with high arched ceilings, lit only by enchanted lights.

 2.3

    As Daphnia helped me put the Manium sanaritous in my spatial focus. She said, "Seeing as how your memory is all messy, you probably don''t remember if your guardian told you anything about Free city?¡± Rolling her eyes and huffing, Madison said: "Here she goes again, I swear mom you could talk forever about the most boring stuff.¡± Sharply turning her head towards Madison, She said, "Listen here, young lady, you may not be interested in learning about Free city. But Kyle wasn''t born here, and I think he might like to know the layout of the city.¡±


    The light from her mana faded from my wrist as She said: "Unless you''re not interested in hearing about the city?¡± She¡¯s been so nice to me, I can tell by her glittering eyes that she really wants to lecture. It might even help me make better progress with my memories, and Who am I to say no to a font of knowledge, I thought. ¡°Of course I want to hear about Free city, who knows when I''ll need to find my own way around," I said, Smiling at her. ¡°You''re such a, such a slug-tooth," Madison said, under her breathe with a huff.


    Laughing, Daphnia said ¡°Wonderful, hmm.. let''s see where should I start, I''ve got it, I''ll just give you a brief overview of the city. I''d love to get into all the details, but my husband''s study isn''t far enough away, maybe later if you''re interested, we can be more in-depth. The first thing you need to know to find your way around the city is what the locals call the four and three rule. In the west lays stone, the east rests metal, north is grown with birch and south riddled with ruin. The third circle holds the four, the second is a marvel, and the third is the crown.¡±


    ¡°That¡­ it''s interesting for sure.¡± I said, slightly confused. Laughing, She said, "I know it sounds weird, but it''s used to teach children about the city. It basically means you can tell what part of the third circle you''re in by the quantity of material it''s made from. You''ll find most if West end is made from stone, while North port its wood, in East hill its metal and the south slum doesn''t have a specific material it''s¡­ hard to put into words. But for you, it should be easy to tell, because there is little to no mana in South slum.¡±


    Cutting in, Madison said, "What she means to say it''s a dump, now I know it can''t really be helped, but it''s still true.¡± Looking fed up with her daughter''s antics, She said: "There is no reason to be so crass, I blame your father.¡± Before I could comment, we made one more turn shortly after we reached a dark oak door. Running her finger across the center of the door, runes flashed to life from her mana. Turning to Madison, She said, "Darling, could you go to our rooms and start getting dinner sorted. It looks like your father is going to be a few minutes. I figured Kyle, and I would talk about the city in a little more detail.¡±


    Not even asking any questions, Turing, and starting down the hall we were. Madison said, "Sure, no problem, I''ll see you guys in a few.¡± Shortly after Madison turned the corner. Opening the door and waving at me to follow her in, She said, "Mancin and I have something to talk to you about.¡±This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    Daphnia and I sat down in the chairs that matched Dark oak door, across from Mancin. Taking in his study, books lining the walls and most of the room taken up by his sturdy oak desk, covered in stacks of paper. Sconces of light doting dotted the walls in between bookshelves, it was very Cousy.


    Shuffling through the stacks of paper beside him, He said ¡°Hmm, ahh here it is. Before we get started, Kyle, could you please look over this contract.¡± Taking the contract in hand, I said: "Sure I can, but I''m a little lost, what''s this about?¡± His eyes crinkled as he smiled, trying his best to be reassuring. He said, "If you read the contract, we can get to that, I truly believe it will make your life easier.¡±


    Taking the aged page in hand, Shaking my head in agreement, I noticed the runes covering the page glimmered with mana. I began to read the contract, it read.


    Contract


    Of


    Mana-geas


    By signing this contract, both parties agree to enter, under the established set of geasa and may both parties knowingly or unknowingly uphold said geasa. This contract, therefore, binds the following parties to the following terms as stated below.


    To the best of the parties abilities, knowledge, and under all circumstances.


    Under no act or force magic or otherwise, may either party share secrets shared or learned after signing this contract.


    Said party of one Mancin and Daphnia Hayward, guild members of Sundry Chamber agrees to house and care for the upbringing in place of his guardian. One Kyle Greenar, until he reaches the age of maturity.


    That the previously stated party will manage and handle, one Kyle Greenar¡¯s. Assets to the best of their abilities with integrity.


    As long as Kyle Greenar has not knowingly broken a law of Free city. The previously stated party will offer their honest counsel without reserve or misdirection.


    The previously stated party will be paid the full amount for their services, after signing this contract by the Guardian of one Kyle Greenar.


    If under a circumstance that this contract might be put into breach, both parties agree that the established set of geasa. May use the parties own mana in violation of the contract to inflict punishment.


    This contract will fully activate once in the hands of one Kyle Greenar.


    If either party is under any circumstances unable to reach one another. This contract will still hold until the previously stated condition is met.


    Attached to the contract was a slip of paper that glowed with a blue-hued light that matched Mancin¡¯s mana. Reading it I was shocked, to say the least, I knew things weren''t making sense, but I wasn''t sure if it wasn''t my spotty memories fault.


    Trying not to sound hysterical, I said ¡°This¡­ this can''t be right, can it?¡± Holding my hand, Daphnia said, "I know it''s a lot to take in, finding out two hundred years of passed you by without you even knowing. But we wanted to wait till we could get a better read on your mental state. Plus Mancin had to dig up the contract from the archive.¡±

 2.4

    Pointing at the glowing contract, Mancin said: "That sets my mind at ease, I was apprehensive you might have been an imposter, of some sort.¡± Looking Apologetic, patting my hand, Daphnia said ¡°I''m sorry we didn''t tell you the truth right away but the lesser geas that informed us that you appeared. Could have been misled and deceived by a few creatures or magics but the greater geas on the contract is almost foolproof.¡±


    Reassuring them, conveying as much understanding as I could. I said, "There is no reason to apologize, I probably would have done the same thing in your position.¡± I mean, how can I be upset with them, when I''m keeping my own secrets. Looking at the couple, questioningly. I said, ¡°But how could this have happened, I don''t think my guardian would have sent me through such a dangerous and unstable form of teleportation.¡± He probably would have, if it fit his plans better, I snidely thought.


    Looking at Mancin, She said, "I think I can probably explain this part better, don''t you and you can explain how it affected him?¡± He shook his head in agreement. Turning to face me, She said, "Do you remember what I told you about the South slums, well that ties into this. Just about the time, you were being sent here, a great tragedy swept across the land. Caused by who, we later found out were Dark magi, they set loose massive waves of never before seen dire beasts. Sending Teams of their dark agents to attack every city, town, and village. Everyone was panicking trying to figure out how to best protect themselves. When Free city was attacked, we were luckily entering into an agreement with one of the few known tier ten Magi. So while we did suffer severe damage in the south, enough that the Miasma of Dark magi is still dampening the ambient mana there today.¡±


    Taking over-explaining, looking grim, Mancin said ¡°It was a terrible time for sure, let me tell you how we think that caused your situation. As you should have been arriving, their attack hit the city. We think the polluted mana caused interference with the enchantments of the city. Just as you arrived, throwing your teleportation into a static cycle.¡± ¡°I don''t really think I understood all that, it''s just so much to take in," I said, fidgeting with my hands.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    Maybe this was all planned out by my past self, I don''t know it just seems that there''s too much coincidence. But it''s not like I have any real proof and who knows maybe he didn''t have anything to do with it, I thought.


    Coughing, obviously trying to get my attention. Mancin said, "I know all this is a lot on top of having problems with your memory. But I''d like to get these last few things in order because some of them are time-sensitive, is that okay?¡± Looking at him and letting out a sigh, I said: "Go ahead we mise well get it over with.¡±


    Shuffling through another stack of paper, pulling out a booklet and handing it to me. He said, ¡°First you might not have been here, but your guardian sent your things here, before you. We as promised have handled your assets for you. This here is the ledger for all your holdings and investments in Free city and a few other places we''ve made throughout the years. You don''t have to go through that right now, but I wanted to make sure you had it, so you know that we have looked after your interests.¡±


    Looking at Mancin In irritation, She said: "Dear, why don''t you tell Kyle about the school?.¡±


    Looking embarrassed and defensive, He said ¡°I was getting to it, we were wondering if you maybe wanted to join Madison and Alfred at Eden this year. There are still a few more weeks before the admissions tests start. I''m sure it would help, catch you up on things you''ve missed and I saw the recording of what happened to that sod of a¡­ anyway, it was a fine bit of mana control you showed there. It should be easy to get you ready for the test.¡±


    Her face flushed with embarrassment, She said: "Oh, dear, I forgot to tell you Kyle isn''t an Apprentice he''s still at the Acolyte level.¡± His eyebrows raised in shock. He said, "What, but I checked his focus, and while it is a fine piece of work, it was just a spatial focus.¡± Looking at me seeking approval, I shook my head, giving my consent,. She said, "But he has something, I''m sure you could work with to get him ready or at least in some other way. Kyle here has a talent, something mana based. with both the ability to see and manipulate it.¡±

 2.5

    With a look of surprise, Mancin said, "Oh really, a talent and what sounds like. One of the more unique ones, at that. That''s even better for your future than being at the apprentice level right now would have been.¡± Leaning forward, pressing her for arms into the edge of the desk, Daphnia said, "Right, I thought the same thing once he told me about his talent. Being at the apprentice level at his age would definitely get him marked as talented. But having a talent and one that can do what he says will make his path to becoming a Magus so much easier.¡±


    Rubbing his at his chin, He said, "Hmmm, I could talk to the Guild leader about talents to see if he could shine some light. On what Kyle''s talent is but I''m not sure he''d leave it alone after. You know how he gets about secrets and anything to do with talents, Daphnia. I''d rather talk to Desmond about it, might take a little longer. But he knows just as much as the Guild leader about talents, probably even more if I''m honest.¡±


    Leaning Back and shaking her head in agreement, Daphnia said: "You don''t have to be so secretive, Madison spilled the beans about Alfred having a talent.¡± Squinting his eyes, in irritation, He said ¡°Ugh Daphnia, what are we going to do with her, she''s always been too wild and fiery. But I''m starting to get concerned about how it will affect her future if she keeps this up.¡± In a soothing voice, looking lovingly at her husband, She said ¡°I¡¯m sure she''ll grow out of it she''s just young, and it''s not like Alfred is really going to be mad at her. Anyway, we''re here to talk to Kyle and help him not to discuss our daughter''s problems.¡±


    Turning to me, She said, ¡°Understandably, he is Alfred''s father, after all, I''d feel and do the same for Madison. But I agree, Desmond is definitely the better option, and it''s a great start to helping Kyle get into Eden if he wants to?¡±


    I''m definitely in need of new sources of information, who knows what all has changed over the past two hundred years. What''s a better place to learn. All that than a school, especially a school with such prestige like Eden.


    Looking at the couple trying to look as confident as possible. I said, "I''m definitely interested in attending Eden, and I''m really close to reaching the apprentice level. I should be able to make it before Eden starts their admissions tests. Since you both feel like Desmond is a better choice, we can just go with asking him, I don''t mind waiting a little longer.


    Banging his hands on his, Mancin said ¡°Great, I like your decisiveness Kyle, I''ll get started on getting the ball rolling, first thing tomorrow. Giving me a bright smile, Daphnia said, "That''s wonderful, that will definitely help you have a better chance at getting into Eden. Now, how about we head to our room to eat dinner and relax from all this stress.¡± Getting up and stretching, He said: "That sounds amazing, I haven''t eaten anything today, and I''m absolutely starving!¡±This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Following the couple out of the room, before we can get too far down the hallway. I said, "I don''t want to be rude, but I could really use some time alone to process, I''d really like to just head to bed if that''s okay?¡± Looking at Me in understanding and then toMancin, She said ¡°Of course you can! Never feel like you have to do anything, just to make us happy. Dear would you, help Kyle get to his room your so much better at navigation spells than I am.¡±


    ¡°Of course my love anything for you and Kyle she''s right your own peace of mind is more important than anything else. Just follow this, and it will get you to your room in no time.¡± He said, raising his hand as it began to glow, releasing a blue orb from his palm.


    After saying our goodbyes and going our separate ways, I followed the little blue orb as it bobbed and weaved. Down the twists and turns of the hallway, it didn''t take more than ten or fifteen minutes before I reached my room. Just as I stepped through the doorway, my little blue guide disappeared in a small flash of mana. Taking a deep breath, it felt nice to be alone like I could finally decompress. I sprawled out on my bed just to take a few minutes to myself, without worrying.


    I''m not sure if I should wait longer before trying to undo the third seal on my memories. But with Edens admissions tests coming up soon I don''t think I''ll have the time to wait. Feeling rushed yet trying to stay as calm as possible, I assumed a cross-legged position. Preparing to follow my memories on how to enter, a deeper state of meditation. I began breathing, three counts breath in, four counts hold, breathe out, and repeat. I felt myself sinking deep into the mana flowing inside me. It''s like I could actually see it, all the paths it took in my body.


    Following the flow of mana as my awareness bobbed with the current, I waited, trying to find a spot that would be easier to condense a rune. Where I wouldn''t have to fight, the mana inside me to hold the rune. Not knowing how much time has passed, I finally found a spot. A little nook where flows of mana swirled around each other. I began to picture the three-pronged rune, using as much focus as I could muster. Pushing the image at the spot, I had found I began to fold the mana surrounding the nook into the rune.


    From the memories I had, I expected it to be harder to get the mana to bond to the runic image, but it felt and moved so smoothly. Following what I wanted it to do, with the barest touch from my awareness. The runic image glowing fully with mana gave off the sensation of what I can only describe as a pop. Coming out of deep meditation, trying to prepare myself for what was to come. When the third seal on my memories came undone.

 2.6

    Ugh, Where am I, Whatever is going on here is really strange, I thought. All I could see was thick fog, trying to move forward I found that I could move at all. It felt like my body was being weighed down by a mountain, this was completely different than the last time I released one of the seals on my memories. As I heard rumbling, like stone falling on stone, the fog around me began to boil and roll. A giant city made of crystal appeared, its monolith like spires pierced through the sea of fog. It was massive, trying to turn my head to see more of its structure, it looked like the city went on for miles and miles.


    With the fog around me gone, I could finally see I was standing in the crystal city. I noticed that the Crystal that made up the whole city. Even the bricks under my feet had murky shades of indigo flowing through it. If going by how average cities were built and the tallest point was at the center, then I was far away on the outskirts. The rumbling in the distance, Sounding like it was getting closer. Everything started to shake and letting out a cry of fracturing crystal. The part of the city I was in, separated from the rest, began to fall.


    As it fell, it began to break up into smaller and smaller pieces, until only a small circle around me was whole. My decent started to pick up speed as the crystal I was locked to began to spin. What felt like an eternity of spinning later, became a heart-stopping moment of panic. Ounce I realized the crystal under me was starting to crack, bits and pieces flinging off into the inky darkness around me. With no warning, the whole thing shattered, closing my eyes as I fell through the cloud of diamond dust. With a jarring smash, I hit something substantial, taking just one sweet second to savor the lack of movement.


    Opening my eyes, I dragged my Weary body up, the first thing I noticed was that I wasn''t back in my room. But in another vision, this time I was on a grassy hill overlooking a small town in the distance. Standing to my right was my past self, staring at his wrinkled face, I could see him talking, but the words didn''t match his lips and what he was saying didn''t make sense. Gesturing into the air making glowing diagrams appear that I couldn''t understand, he was obviously trying to explain something to me. I just didn''t understand what he was trying to say but trying my best to piece everything together, I listened.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡° Crystal Palace¡­¡­¡­ soulution¡­..


    not¡­.. but you¡­¡­¡­¡­


    I found¡­¡­... Dark heart¡­¡­ still not¡­¡­¡­¡­.


    ¡­¡­..hope you¡­¡­...


    Blue Book¡­.. combines¡­¡­¡­ best of¡­...


    If you¡­¡­¡­..


    can be fine¡­¡­¡­.


    your choice¡­¡­¡­.. don''t rush¡­¡­¡­.¡±


    My past-self said, continuing to gesture at the shifting diagram beside him.


    The best I could decipher is that he was talking about my choices of soulution. One of the most important decisions in becoming a Magus is picking which core matrix soulution to use. It will shape your path, what your capable of, and overall profoundly affect how far you can go. Not being able to hear what he''s saying about my choices could definitely affect my choice of soulution.


    As he swept his arm at me, the shifting diagram, split into three separate circle-shaped pieces. Flying towards me coming to a stop, they floated within arms reach of me. The one on the left had an outline of a castle. While the middle one had an outline of a book and the one on the right had fangs under a four-pointed star.


    First looking at the left one its green glow plus the castle outline. Made me think of the Jade Palace and the fact that this is the soulution that my past self must have used. While Middle one with the blue glow and the outline of a book must be the blue book soulution, he tried to tell me about. Then the final one has to be the Dark heart, which if I remember correctly is the soulution of the Dark Magi. It''s not a hard choice to make, I don''t want to follow in my past selves footsteps, and I definitely don''t want to be a Dark Magus. Especially after they caused all that chaos, so that leaves me with the Blue-book soulution.


    I''ve been making do, with all the forced and unexpected changes. That have come my way, why stop now. I thought reaching to grab what I''m pretty sure is the Blue-book soulution. Just after my finger went through the small blue circle, everything faded to black.

 2.7

    Coming to, my head felt Thoroughly scrambled, the pain from unlocking the third seal was at least five times worse. Then when I unlocked the second one, at least I was prepared this time, I thought. I noticed I had sprawled out at some point during my meditation. The twisted blanket, hanging off my bed, told the story of the struggle my body went through as my mind experienced visions. Wincing, I pressed my palm against my throbbing forehead as I struggled to pull myself to a sitting position. Trying my best to block out the pain, I thought of the ways I could lessen it. But all I could think of were things that required, either substantial amounts of concentration or a potion I didn''t have access to.


    I could tell something was definitely wrong, a lot of my newly acquired memories were foggy at best. It even felt like some of my memories from the second seal were missing. At least this was something I think I could deal with, using a technique from one of the clearer memories I got from the third seal. It was called mental looking glass, from what I could tell from the description it was a type of meditation. But instead of dealing with mana it let you project your awareness into a space that represents your consciousness as a mindscape. Which allows you to use your projection to interact, influence, or alter your mindscape.


    That''s not so bad I''m just not sure I''ll be able to use it, but it''s worth a try at least, I thought. Deciding it wasn''t worth aggravating my head more, to get into a proper meditation pose. With closed eyes, placing my hands on my knees. Breathing in and out to the tune of my heartbeat. The deeper I sank into meditation, the more the pain in my head felt like the gong of giant bells. Feeling my awareness of everything around me disappear until finally, I even stopped feeling the pain. Just as I reached that state of inner peace, the darkness of my closed eyelids was replaced by sprawling fields of deep blue.


    It was apparent what was causing my pain, a dozen of huge chunks of glass were spread through my mindscape, jutting out of the blue field with tore up trenches surrounding them. Pushing my floating projection forward, towards the nearest chunk of glass. On closer inspection, I noticed that the fragments of glass represented my newly acquired memories. Not only that, but there were thousands if not more of small shards of memories scattered everywhere. My mindscape was in shambles it looked like it had been hit by a storm of meteors.


    Heading towards what first drew me in this direction, passing a few more chunks of glass, my projection reached the edge of a giant gorge. The dark blue grass that covered the rest of the field was utterly overturned here, leaving a barren and darker color of blue earth in its place. In the center of the gorge sat a huge upside-down glass pyramid. Ignoring the hundreds of the glass shards surrounding it, I had my projection head straight towards it. Focusing my awareness, I had my projection touch the glass pyramid.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Once I had direct contact with it, I could tell it contained all the knowledge about my soulution. I also found a lot of things that dealt with the mind, I even found the mental looking glass technique within it. Deciding to have my projection take a seat on top of the pyramid. As I searched for a method to fix my mindscape. Diving into all the knowledge the pyramid held was daunting. It didn''t just hold the knowledge of how to use my soulution. It also had what runes to use to form my core matrix and what spell matrixes I should scribe onto it.


    But also information about plants and animals that either had psychic abilities or increased a wide variety of things related to the mind. One that caught my eye was the grey-clad bat if you were to take some of its blood and add it to a mana potion. Not only would the potion restore your mana but it would strengthen our mindscape, not that I had access to a grey-clad bat. Skimming past the section about spells, I finally reached the section about incantations and techniques.


    Almost reaching the end, I found a technique that was meant to be used in tandem with the mental looking glass. It''s called the method of loci, used to enhance one''s memory by attaching memories to a familiar environment to quickly recall information. But my past self improved on the technique by combining it with a spell matrix called crystal palace. It sounds beneficial and because I''ve lost a lot of memories, from my reckless decision to undo the third seal on my memories. I think that''s it''s going to be one of my first spell matrixes, I mise well use a palace as the shape of my loci.


    Pulling my awareness from the pyramid, I decide this spot is as good as another to build my loci. Sending my awareness, through my mindscape, I call all the chunks and little bits of memory I can. The white clouds overhead were covered by an Aurora of glass swarming in my direction, answering my call. Just focusing on the image of a palace, I let my subconscious do most of the heavy lifting. Shortly after all the pieces had formed what I could only call a rough outline of a palace, could I tell how bad my memory loss was.


    With gaping holes everywhere and cracks running through every part save the pyramid in the center, my mind palace was a reck, but it was the best I could do for now. Maybe once I studied the knowledge that the pyramid held in more depth, I could find a better way.

 2.8

    I let out a breath in relief as I exited my meditation, I could instantly tell, using the method of loci had relieved almost all the pain I had felt coming from my head. Letting out a groan as I stood up, stretching my stiff body. I noticed five hours had passed since I first entered meditation. I guess I shouldn''t be surprised, it felt like an eternity, but time is experienced differently in your own head.


    The glow of a small blue dome with a note on it caught my eye. Going over to the desk, reading the note from Daphnia, it read.


    I know you wanted to be alone to process everything that happened today, but you should still eat something. So I had Mancin send this over, I hope you like and have a good night. The stasis field will break when you reach for the plate, so don''t let it sit too long afterward or it will get cold.


    P.S just so you know, Madison will most likely be coming to bother you tomorrow morning.


    Steam wafted off the plate of food, as my hand went through the blue dome. Deciding to listen to Daphnia advice, I took a seat at the desk. Plus the food looked and smelled amazing, I thought. As I stared at the diced potatoes, green squash and chunks of what looked like pork. I felt the saliva start to collect in my mouth, undoing the third seal, and doing mental work. Must be more physically taxing than I thought.


    Digging in, It didn''t take me long to polish that off, I thought, leaning back in the chair Letting out a content sigh. Feeling more energized than I expected, I decided to try my hand at forming my first spell matrix. I just can''t resist the thought of truly casting a spell for the first time. I admit I''m a little giddy, ever since I saw Daphnia do magic


    I''ve wanted to do it too. Could be the feeling of actually being able to see mana but something about it just calls to me.


    Heading back towards my bed, taking a more classic meditation pose. Resting the back of my hands on my knees, beginning to breathe. Following the same breathing mantra that I used before, after a few minutes, I felt myself fall into my body. Taking some time to stabilize my awareness. I decided to try out a hunch I had, instead of looking for a calm spot where the mana flowing inside me wasn''t so volatile. Like I did when I was condensing the three-pronged runes. I would start the process of building my first spell matrix, wherever my awareness first landed.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Taking in the view of the mana surrounding my awareness, as it flowed everywhere. I began to condense runes, Using the method of loci. It was easy to picture, all the runes I needed for the levitate spell matrix. The runic images appeared one after another until I had almost a hundred floating around my awareness. Once again using the method of loci, it was to easy to recall. The exact positions I needed to place the runes at.


    Watching the runes float around, as I willed them to their correct positions. When the final rune came to a stop, using my awareness. I when over the outlined spell matrix just to make sure everything was in the right spot. I began to fold in the mana much like I did with the three-pronged rune and it was just as easy. Smiling in satisfaction as the spell matrix began to glow as mana filled it up. The blue glow of the runes kept getting bright as more and more mana pooled into them.


    I had only a few seconds of warning that something was wrong. Before the spell matrix collapsed, releasing a bright flash as it disappeared. Letting out a muffled shout in shock, as I came out of my meditation. Gently rubbing my watering eyes, what could have gone wrong. I know I pictured the runic images correctly, I''d even say perfectly, I thought. Deciding to hold off on making another attempt at forming another spell matrix.


    Looking at the time, it had only been twenty minutes since I started to meditate, twenty minutes wasted. But at least I tried my hunch, and I''m pretty sure my talent makes it easier for me to make spell matrixes. Clearing my mind, I began to center my breathing, I felt an airy feeling tingle along my skin. As my awareness entered my projection, in my mind palace.


    Diving back into the upside-down pyramid, I began to search for answers. On what I could have done wrong. Or at least what could have caused my spell matrix to collapse, so close to completion. I''m not actually sure how I found it, I think mostly by luck, I mean it''s so minuscule. That the fact that you have to fill each runic image up separately and then connect them into the form of the spell matrix. Exiting my mind palace, I noticed I''d spent two hours in there trying to find an answer. Should I get some sleep and try again tomorrow or should I just give it another shot tonight? Choices, choices I thought.

 2.9

    Well I''ve figured out the problem I mise well just give it another shot,. Edens admissions test is right around the corner, and I''m sure being able to form spell matrixes, will look great. Getting back into my meditative pose, I began my breathing mantra. Falling into my body even quicker this time, I started to condense the runic images for the levitate spell matrix right away. Folding mana into each one slowly, until every one of them shined, fully. Connecting them together took barely a few seconds, the whole spell matrix glowingly rotated in my awareness. Everything was going great, I couldn''t wait to use my first spell matrix, I thought with a smile.


    I felt a tug on my awareness, drawing me towards the rightmost corner of the spell matrixes. Just in time to see one rune shatter, releasing white sparks that spluttered shortly after. Causing the whole matrix to destabilize, the mana inside the rest of the runes began to glow brighter. As they shifted drawing closer together in a tangled mess of misplaced runes and glowing lines. Their jostling causing screeches to ring out, like glass rubbing against glass. My heart dropped, as the whole thing shattered, releasing a white flare, that blotted out my vision.


    Falling backward as I was shocked out of my meditation again, hitting my head on the wall this time. Rubbing the back of my sore head, I got back into a proper sitting position. What could be going wrong, I followed the instructions to the letter, and yet it still fell apart. But I''m going to get this, I have my talent and all the knowledge I need to form a proper spell matrix, I thought.


    Watching the tenth spell matrix rotated in my awareness, I tried my best not to let the build-up of frustration. From the nine previous failed attempts overwhelm me and cloud my focus. I felt a rune in the third layer of the spell matrix shatter, not even bothering to wait as the rest of it fell apart. I took the spell matrix in my awareness and smothered it. Watching small white sparks shoot out and splutter, as the whole matrix disappeared. Just watching the streams of mana in my body, as they flowed and swirled.


    Trying to reach some form of calm for myself. I thought about the positive things I have learned so far. The first, I think, is probably going to be the most helpful. By my third attempt at forming a spell matrix, I was able to stay in meditation even while disturbed. The fifth time I found out, I could even slow it down as I tried to stop it from falling apart? Not to mention the fact that by my seventh attempt, in a fit of anger, I smashed the spell matrix to pieces. It''s nice not having to wait for the whole thing to fall apart. Letting out a sigh of defeat, I promised myself that once I got to ten, I''d stop.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    Wearily Exiting my meditation, my eyes stinging from the stress of failure, I sprawled out on my bed. I felt like I had just shut my eyes when a loud banging woke me up.


    Ugh, what... I spluttered out, Jerkily pulling myself from the bed and trudging to the door, opening it angrily. With bloodshot eyes and rats nest hair, scowling I said ¡°What!..¡± looking at me, she bent over laughing. She said, "I''m sorry... I shouldn''t be laughing, but you should see yourself, it''s too much.¡± Taking a deep calming breath. I said, "No, I''m sorry Madison I shouldn''t have yelled at you, I just had a rough night.¡±


    Waving at me to stop. She said, "it''s fine! No need to apologize, I''m not much for being woke up myself, so I get it. Plus the laugh was worth it, seriously you look deranged. Anyway, my parents wanted to know if you wanted to come over for breakfast and I volunteered to come to get you?" Trying to rub the sleep from eyes, when I loud grumble came from my stomach. Blushing from embarrassment, groggily. I said, "Sure, I could use something to eat anyway.¡± ¡°Here let me help you look a little less well¡­ tragic.¡± She said, tapping me on the arm with one of her rings.


    As it sent a pinkish-red light cascading over my body, She said, ¡° There we go, now you don''t look so haggard. When your a busy lady like myself, sometimes you just don''t have time to enjoy a nice shower. So I had daddy whip me up a cleaning focus, with all the bells and whistles for my last birthday.¡± Sweeping me out of my room and down the twisting and turning halls of the free city. In the whirlwind fashion, that I''ve come to know is just Madison''s way. We arrived at the Hayward¡¯s rooms maybe fifteen minutes.


    But it could have been faster. I felt like we were running at some points throughout or little jaunt. Following behind Madison as we entered through a light brown oak door. Blinking as my eyes tried to adjust to the sudden change in lighting. As I took in the breathtaking view of a bright garden, the sun shined from overhead. As a breeze ruffled my hair, I Watched a kaleidoscope of butterflies flutter by, dancing between swaying trees.

 2.10

    Laughing broke me from my daze, drawing my eye to the glowing figure of Daphnia. As She glided out from one of the swaying trees, closer to my right. I was surprised I didn''t catch any hint of her mana, till she came out of the tree. I''m definitely going to have to investigate the limitations of my talent. Because it''s quite apparent that there are ways to block it, or maybe I''m just not using it right, I thought.


    Joining in the laughter, between fits of giggles, Madison said, "Oh you.. should have¡­ seen your face. It was priceless, mom always likes to pull that trick on unsuspecting visitors.¡± Coming forward as she wiped a tear from her eye, wrapping me in a warm hug. Daphnia said, "I''m sorry I just couldn''t resist, I''ve found, you never really get to surprise someone unless you do right when they walk in.¡± Pulling back to look me in the eyes, smiling, she said, "To make it up to you, I''ll make you my signature dish. I call it the Hayward table stack, hmm how does that sound?¡±


    I wanted to be upset, but it was a harmless prank, I wasn''t really so surprised


    by her entrance anyway. More by the fact my talent didn''t sense her, but she''s


    done so much for me I''ll just let her think she surprised me. Not only that but


    this place was definitely not an illusion or least I don''t think it is


    or my talent should have picked up on it, I thought.


    Chuckling, giving her my best impish smile, I said: "It''s fine, I guess, but a nice breakfast would probably make me feel better.¡± As she guided us through the grove of ankle-high grass, I couldn''t help but take in. The wide variety of flowers that grew around the denser parts of the forest. With a menagerie of small woodland creatures scurrying through the bushes and trees, everything felt so vibrant.


    Just when we passed the far side of the grove, the air around us rippled. Causing all the colors in my vision to blur, into a nauseous soupy mixture. It felt like the world tilted for a split second then just as quick righted itself. Before I had time to fall, I felt a pair of arms prop me up. Turning I saw daphnia, looking thoroughly apologetic, She said, "I''m so sorry! I''m such a klutz sometimes, I didn''t even think about how your talent would interact with you being dislocated.¡± Leading me towards a chair, She said: "Are you okay?¡±


    Taking in the giant spread of boiled eggs, diced potatoes, fresh fruit and pitchers of a dark red liquid. As the feeling of nausea left me, I said: "I''m okay, it just took me by surprise.¡± Looking over from across the table, shaking his head. Mancin said, "See my love, this is what happens when you play your little games.¡± Cutting in, as she took the seat to my left, in true Madison fashion. She said, "Ya but where''s the fun in that, plus it''s not like anything really bad ever happens.¡± Honestly, even though I haven''t known her that long. It''s easy to tell she likes fun and fun to her is almost always related to trouble.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Shooting looks of blame at each other over their daughter''s antics, caring on a whole silent conversation. Turning to look at me completely ignoring her husband, Smiling. She said, "Anyway.. what would like to eat Kyle? We have turtle-quail eggs, spur potatoes, an assortment of fruit and one of my favorites all-fruit nectar.¡± Just looking at all the delicious choices made my mouth water. I said, "Mmm. It all looks so good, I guess I''ll take a little of everything.¡±


    Letting out a deep laugh after looking at his wife as if she was the sun itself. Turning to me, Mancin said, "So Kyle what do you think of Daphnia¡¯s macrocosm? It cost a fortune, not to mention the paperwork to get the proper permits from the city. Which was a nightmare of hoops to jump through and greedy palms wanting money for a job they were already getting paid for!¡± Coughing as he patted his chest, He said, "Sorry, I get worked up remembering it, but she was and is definitely worth it. How could I let my lovely wife suffer in the city when her Witchy magic calls to the forests of nature.¡±


    Leaning over and giving him a warm kiss. Daphnia said, "Oh my sweet man, you and that silver tongue of yours always know what to say to melt my heart.¡± Settling back in her chair, turning to smile at me. She said, "Don''t listen to him, Kyle, Mancin just likes to complain, and he enjoys my grove just as much as I do.¡± My face was slightly flushed, from their sappy love talk. I said, "It''s amazing! it''s nice to feel and smell the warmth and freshness of nature after being in the city.¡±


    It didn''t take long for us to finish our meal, between listening to the Haywards witty banter and savoring all the new and delicious flavors of the food, it was very relaxing. Finishing off the last of my nectar, turning to Mancin I said ¡°Could I talk to you later about some of the problems I''ve been having with a spell matrix? I figured it would look good, with Edens admissions test coming up.¡±


    Before he could respond, almost screeching. Madison said, "What! You''re going to try out for Eden too?¡± Practically jumping out of her chair in excitement, she said, "That''s fantastic. I can''t wait, we''re going to have so much fun.¡± Smiling, I said, "Ya, your parents convinced me I should try to get in. Because it''s a great opportunity and course of my talent as well.¡± Shaking her head in agreement, She said: "Yup, that sure sounds like them.¡±


    While we were talking, Daphnia was busy looking off to the far right mumbling something I couldn''t quite hear. Turning to look at Mancin, with a frown. She said, "constable Sherk is here to talk about Kyle''s case.¡± Looking towards where Daphnia¡¯s gaze had been, his eyes flashing with blue light. Before he disappeared, looking stern. He said, "I''ll go talk to him, I''ll be back in a few minutes.¡±


    Letting out a sigh, shooting a worried look at Mancin as he disappeared. She said, "I probably should go with him, you never know what your father could do. You know he detests the constable.¡± Her mana bled from her body, blending into the surroundings, like a drop of paint falling in the water. Then she was gone, leaving Madison and me to our own devices.

 3.1

    Taking in the blue sky overhead I thought to myself, I''m kind of worried about their reaction to constable sherk¡¯s visit. But it''s out of my control, so why focus on that, when I could be doing something productive. Turning to Madison but before I could ask her about Eden. She leaned forward in her chair, conspiratorially. She said, " I''m sure you want to know why my parents acted so weird about Sherk?¡± Well, that''s not what I wanted to ask. But she''s not wrong either, I''m even more curious now.


    Letting out a sigh She said ¡°Fine, be a spoil-spud! But since we''re friends, I''ll tell you anyway. My parents and Sherk grew up together, they used to be the best of friends. But they had a falling out over¡­¡± Not getting a reaction out of me, she was most likely hoping for. Letting out another sigh in frustration, She said, "You''re almost as bad as Alfred. Anyway, it was a love triangle! Can you believe it, it''s just like something out of a sappy romance novel. Obviously, my mom chose my dad, but it broke up their friendship. Now, whenever their all together, it''s always awkward, and Sherk and my dad almost always start fighting.¡±


    Well, I guess that makes a lot of sense, not as exciting of a secret as I thought it would be. But that''s probably for the best, I thought. Awkwardly, I said, "That''s not really what I was going to ask... but thank you anyway. What I really wanted to know was what you could tell me about Eden?¡± Her face tinted red from embarrassment. She said, "Oh¡­ well, that''s easy enough. Hmm.. let''s start with the basics, first Eden is one of the only three, tier seven academies on the continent. People come from all over, just to try and make it.¡±


    Looking surprised, I said, "Wow! I didn''t know Eden was so important.¡± Shaking her head, She said, ¡°Yup, yup, It''s a well-known fact if you can graduate from a tier seven academy. No one would turn down your services, and anywhere you go as long as you can prove you graduated. From a tier, seven academy will definitely treat you better.¡± I said, "That seems over the top what''s so important about graduating from a tier seven academy. Not only that but what''s stopping someone from just saying they graduated from a tier seven academy?¡±If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Laughing, She said, "You''re so suspicious, think about it this way. The higher tier an academy has, the better the resources, teachers, and facilities it has. Which means it''s students are better equipped to reach a higher tier themselves. Plus for an academy to reach tier seven, they have to have a tier ten headmaster. Now I''m not sure of the exact enchantment process. I do know that they''re tied to both the Academy, that made them and their owners. So There is no way someone could replicate a tier seven graduation medallion.¡±


    Rubbing my temples as my head pounded from the information overload but I guess getting into Eden was definitely important, I thought. Before we could continue talking, ripples spread out from where Daphnia and Mancin had been sitting. With a flicker, a light began to shimmer in a circular pattern. They both walked out of the glowing circle. I noticed Mancin''s mana was volatile as it bubbled like hot water. His face was scrunched into an angry frown, as he grumbled. The only thing I think I could understand was something about a weasel, or maybe it was a toad.


    Taking their seats, as she rubbed Mancin''s arm. She said, "Dear, you really need to stop getting so worked up when you''re around him. It doesn''t do you any good, and it even makes things more complicated.¡± Pinching the bridge of his nose and letting out a deep breath, Mancin said: "I know that, I''d change it if I could he''s just so irritating.¡± Slightly smiling and Turning to us, mainly Madison. She said, "I hope you two didn''t get into any trouble while we were gone?¡± Her eyes flickering with guilt. Madison said, "No! What kinda trouble could we get into anyway? You guys were only gone for twenty minutes.¡±


    Her eyebrows raised in a questioning manner. Daphnia said, "Really, Madison? You could get into trouble in five minutes, let alone twenty.¡± Looking at her mother directly in the eyes. She said, "Well, not this time, I was just telling Kyle about Eden.¡± Letting out a breathe, Daphnia aid ¡°Oh, that''s great, I''m glad you could help fill him in on what to expect.¡± Turning to me, She said, "Well, I''ve got good news and bad news. Good news, your case is no longer pending, and you aren''t being charged with any crime. Bad news, neither is the mappers on who attacked you.

 3.2

    I didn''t even think it was that serious, sure I attacked him with mana, but it was in self-defense. Drumming my fingers on the arm of my chair. I said, "What were they trying to charge me with? He attacked me; first, I was only trying to defend myself.¡± Looking like she could chew on nails. Daphnia said, "That''s just it, they weren''t trying to charge you for anything to do with the fighting. They completely ignored the whole incident! Trying their best to sweep everything under the rug, so to speak. Their only interest was in you, not having a permit on you and if you were at the apprentice level. We¡¯re just lucky that you passed the truth sayers tests.¡±


    With her arms crossed over her chest. Madison said, "That''s not right! He attacked you and the only thing they''re worried about. Is if you infringed on some minor laws!¡±


    Suddenly getting quieter, as her eyes bounced from me to her parents. She said ¡°I can''t really say, him not getting charged is that unfair all things considered. I mean well, mmm¡­¡± Tapping her chin, in deep thought. Snapping her fingers. She said, "Roasted! That''s the word I''m going for. You roasted a little over half his body with your mana pulse thingy.¡±


    Laughing as he slapped the table. Mancin said, "Ha, she''s right about that, you really did a number on him. Even if he gets the help of a healer, it''s going to cost him or his guild a lot of money. If they even choose to go that route, they might just let him suffer from the burns as punishment. That''s part of the reason that the city tried to go after you for not having your permit on you. If I were to guess the other reason they went after you. Is they''re very touchy about outsiders causing problems in the city.¡±


    Wow, I didn''t realize I caused so much trouble. I''ll definitely have to be more careful in the future, I thought. Patting his arm, Daphnia said, "Mancin darling, why don''t you take Kyle to your study. So you can answer his questions about spell matrixes. While Madison and I have a little chat hmm.¡± With his brows scrunched together. He said, "I completely forgot you asked me to help you with that. I''m sorry, things tend to slip my mind when I''m frustrated.¡±This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    Shaking my head, I said, "It''s not a problem, sometimes it just happens. Getting up from the table, Mancin lead me off towards the left side of the grove. Blue sparks of mana, flickered over my body as the scenery around us began to ripple. Appearing a room that looked a lot like his other office. The first thing I noticed was how bright his study was. With a giant window behind his desk overlooking the grove. Everything was made of lighter shades of color as well. A few feet in front of his desk was a pair of couches and a coffee table. His study was definitely bigger than his office, that''s for sure.


    Waving at the couch, on the left. He said, "Here take a seat, there is no need to worry about anyone listening in here. After the Dark Magi attacked the city, it made me think about a few things. It''s one of the reasons I got Daphnia a microcosm, but I also had my study built into it as a sub-layer. So it has twice the enchantments for preventing eavesdropping. Plus a few other things that make it even harder to get into. Anyway, we''re not here to talk about my study are we.¡± That''s impressive, I didn''t even think about people scrying.


    As he sat down, Mancin said, "I don''t know how complex the problem you''re having with a spell matrixes is. But one of my favorite sayings is, why to suffer uncomfortably when you can suffer in comfort. I will say, it''s a little early for you to be working on spell matrixes. But go ahead and tell me about your problems, I''ll try my best to help.¡± Twisting my hands in nervousness. I said, "Well, I remembered a levitation spell matrix. That I thought would be a good place to start training. At first, I set up the whole spell matrix than filled it with mana. But before I knew what happened, it destabilized and fell apart. Then I tried filling the runic images with mana before connecting them, that didn''t work either. No matter what I did, it kept falling apart?¡±


    Leaning forward, He said, "I''m not trying to be mean when I say this, but it''s quite obvious, from what you''ve told. That your missing one of the basic tenets of runes and building a spell matrix. Which is all runes resonate. They interact with each other and mana through form, position, and resonance. If all three aren''t correct, well you''ve experienced what happens for yourself. Luckily without consequence, Albeit on a smaller scale.

 3.3

    What?! How could I miss something that important? Taking a quick second, I tapped into my mind palace. I searched through the whole thing, and there was plenty of information about form. A few tidbits about position but not one mention of resonance. I felt my stomach sink, as I realized how bad the memory loss really was. I just thought since the pyramid with my soulution was completely intact that I didn''t lose anything super important. Dropping my head into my hands to hide how shocked I was.


    Looking up, as I felt a hand touch my shoulder. Wearing a look of sympathy. Mancin said, "Kyle, as I said before, it''s a little too early for you to be trying to form spell matrixes. It''s nothing to get worked up about. Sure, it would look good to have a few spell matrixes for Edens admissions test. But it''s not the end of the world if you don''t have them. You still have your talent, that definitely puts you ahead of most of the applicants. But I guess..¡±


    Pausing, Letting out a sigh. He said, ¡°It wouldn''t hurt if I went over the basics with you. To see if that helps you form a proper spell matrix. From what you told me previously, you seem to have a pretty good grasp of form. But your grasp of position is sloppy at best, and it sounds like your knowledge of resonance is disastrous.¡±


    These misunderstandings keep happening at the worst times. I can''t even explain my reaction. Without either exposing my biggest secret or maybe losing my best chance to get a better handle on spell matrixes. Before taking Edens admissions tests. With my head hanging low. I said, "That''s pretty accurate of my situation. If there''s anything you can do or advice you could give. Anything at this point would be an improvement, and I''d be very thankful.¡±


    Sitting across from me, Mancin''s jolly and gruff demeanor vanished. In its place was the air of a scholar, a seeker of knowledge. Sternly, he said, "Before we start, I just want you to know. At any point, if you don''t understand something or have a question. Stop me even if I''m in the middle of explaining something and I will go over it again. I''m not teaching, for the sake of teaching but teaching so you learn. Do you understand?¡±


    I could tell, he took teaching very seriously. Shaking my head in agreement, I said: "Yes, I completely understand.¡± As his glowing right hand, swept towards a bookcase on the far right of the room. Causing a large book that sat on one of its packed shelves. To fly towards us, as it landed on the coffee table between us. The first thing I noticed was its cover. Made of rich grey leather, that had shimmering specks of silver running through it.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Turning the book towards me. He said, "Good, this tome is one of my favorites, that covers the fundamentals of spellcraft.¡± Flipping through the tome, stopping as he reached a complex diagram. Of a spell matrix, that covered two pages. He said, "Looking at this diagram, you would think spell matrixes are complicated. While I''ll admit, there are a lot of complex aspects of spellcraft. Spell matrixes, themselves are not all that complex. They can be broken up into three base aspects, called the glyph triad. Which are form, position, and resonance.¡±


    Looking pensive, He said, "Even though you seem to have a good grasp of form. I''ll go over it just to make sure you''re not missing something. The best way I can put it is form is not only the shape of individual runes. But also the way you connect runes together to make the shape of the spell matrix. It''s both the easiest of the triad to learn as well as the trickiest. Because the effects of form on a spell matrix are a lot of small changes. As long as you aren''t too far off from what the shape of the runic images should be. Overall it only affects the final outcome of a spell matrix.¡±


    Pointing at the center of the diagram, Mancin said ¡°This rune here, is called the core rune. It represents the position of the spell matrix as a whole. Position affects how stable the matrix is.¡± Sliding his finger in a circle around the whole diagram, he said, "This is also the position of the spell matrix. If you move the core rune towards the left, just an inch will impact your spell matrix. In some way, depending on what spell matrix you''re trying to form. It could just cause your spell matrix to collapse. Or if it doesn''t collapse it could weaken the effect you get when you activate it. The variety of problems a misplaced core rune could cause is staggering.


    Turning to the next page, that showed another diagram. That looked a lot like the first one. Pointing to six runes that looked identical. He said, "These runes are called secondary runes. Their only purpose is to help balance the resonance, of a spell matrix. Now resonance is probably the hardest part of the triad to grasp. Because of its more ephemeral nature. You can''t see it like the other parts of the triad, it can only be felt. Resonance is not only the vibrational frequency a rune emits. But also the frequency of a spell matrix as a whole. If even one rune is not synchronized correctly. You won''t be able to form a spell matrix at all.¡±

 3.4

    I could almost feel my eyes unfocus, as I tried to take in every small detail that Mancin talked about. Broken from my thoughts by a cough. Focusing back on Mancin, I said: "Sorry for spacing out, I was trying to remember everything you said.¡± His shoulders shaking, Letting out a light laugh. He said, "There''s no need to look so guilty. I just wanted to ask if there was anything you''d like me to go over again?¡±


    Hmm, Forming runes came easily enough, and I know what position the spell matrix needs. So all I really need to do is find a way, to sense and alter the resonance and I''ll be set. Squaring my shoulders, I said, "I don''t think I misunderstood anything you said. If you don''t mind? I''d really like to try applying what I learned and see if I can form a spell matrix.¡± His eyes gleaming as Mancin smiled at me. He said, "That''s the type of spirit, I like to see in young apprentices. Willing to apply the things they learn and not afraid to take chances.¡±


    Assuming my meditation pose on the couch, I closed my eyes. Feeling my awareness, sink into my body. Following the twists and turns of the mana. As it flowed smoothly, curling through me. I went right to work. Concentrating, I condensed the first runic image of the spell matrix. Filling it with mana, till it shone fully. Quickly moving on to the next runic image. I could tell all my previous failed attempts to form a spell matrix had paid off in, experience. Following the same steps, I used on the first runic image, I formed the rest of the runes. Using my awareness, to watch the hundred and twenty- five, glowing runic images float in place.


    Trying to look past, the visual aspect of the runes. So I could feel the resonance of each runic image. Just as I was about to give up on being able to feel the vibrational frequency. After what felt like thirty minutes, of pointless staring. I felt a slight flutter across my senses. As I focused my awareness around that sensation. The slight fluttering sound, transformed into a loud buzz. Once I felt that transformation, it was like something inside me changed with it. I no longer had to concentrate my awareness. Just to struggle to grasp the resonance of the runic images.


    As I used my awareness, to experimentally nudge and prod, the vibrational frequencies. I felt them harmonize as a whole. Working quickly, I began to connect the runic images. One after another, until the whole spell matrix came together. Releasing a harmonic resonance, this time, I could feel the difference. Just when I thought it was finally going to work. The spell matrix exploded, in shards of light and motes of energy. Being violently thrown from my meditative state. Trying not to let the throbbing pain, that began to beat at my temples, overwhelm me.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Feeling the bite of my nails, in my palms. As the corners of my eyes started to burn, Frustratedly. I said, "I don''t understand, I felt the resonance. The harmonic vibration of the spell matrix. Everything was fine one second and then bang everything exploded. I just don''t understand what could have gone wrong?¡± Looking concerned Mancin said, "Take a deep breathe, being emotional is seldom helpful. When it comes to spellcraft, especially when you are dealing with spell matrixes. There is no need for you to be so worried anyway. There is always a cause when something goes wrong, and it''s just our job to figure it out.¡±


    Feeling my chest relax, after taking his advice. I said, "Thanks I needed that, it''s just a lot to handle. Every time I get close, success just within reach. It''s ripped from my hands, and I''m back where I started.¡± Letting out a sigh, He said, "Kyle, life is full of disappointments, and when you travel on the path of magic. Every step you take could be a step back. The most important thing to do is to learn from your mistakes and the mistakes of others. Anything can be a lesson and a chance for you to grow as a person and a Magus.¡±


    Tapping on his chin, He said: "Hmm, this is definitely an enigma, and you''re sure you got the resonance, right?¡± Confidently, I said, "Yes, I''m positive I did. It was like¡­ I don''t have words, it just felt right.¡± Shaking his head in agreement, He said, "That sounds about right, for someone''s first time dealing with resonance. So if it''s not resonance what else could it be.¡± Looking at me seriously. Flipping his hand, causing a piece of paper to appear on the coffee table. He said, ¡°Kyle, this is definitely not a proper behavior a Magus, but I would really like to help you. So if you would be willing to write down your spell matrix. I might be able to see what could be going wrong.¡±


    It might be a spell matrix created by my past-self, but it''s one of the more basic matrixes. At this point, just the thought of being able to finally form this spell matrix left me thrilled. Not hesitating, I began to sketch out the spell matrix. Leaning back, I took in the diagram of the levitate spell matrix, I had just finished. Raising my head to look at Mancin, as I pushed the finished diagram towards him. I said, "I trust you, plus I was never told I couldn''t share it anyway.¡±

 3.5

    Watching Mancin pour over the diagram, with such focus. It was like everything besides the piece of paper in front of him disappeared. After several minutes of him making small noises. As he ran his finger from rune to rune, across every connection, methodically. Just when I thought I was going to explode from the suspense of watching him. He let a short ¡°Ha¡± stabbing his finger at one of the runes. An inch or so away from the center of the spell matrix.


    Looking at me, Mancin said, "I''d first like to say, this is not the common version of the levitate spell matrix.¡± Tapping on the rune, that he had stabbed with his finger earlier. He said, "I¡¯m not sure who made it or why, but it has a lot of extra runes. That I think are just meant to support this rune here.¡± I''m not sure where he''s going with this, but I just hope he has an answer. What If this spell matrix doesn''t work or was made wrong. It could mean all the spell matrixes in my head are useless. My chest was tight from the stress, and I could feel the panic building.


    Flicking his hand at another packed bookcase, this one towards the left of us. Causing a book bound in brown leather, to fly towards us. As it landed on the coffee table next to the grey one. Flipping through the pages, Mancin said ¡°This book is a primer. On positions in the body and how they interact with spell matrixes. It''s usually used by advanced apprentices. That are on the verge of becoming magi. I want to properly explain this, so you can easily grasp. What you need to do to form this spell matrix.¡±


    Coming to a diagram, almost three-fourths in the book. He said, "Ah, here it is.¡± Turning the book towards me, Mancin said, "This Is obviously an outline of the human body. But this diagram focuses on the head and positions you can place a spell matrix to increase certain effects. I''m sure it sounds confusing, but it''s not, I promise. All you have to remember. Is to take advantage of the benefits of a certain position in the body. Is to have the correct rune that goes with that position, in your spell matrix. The downside of this method is if you have a rune matching a certain position. In your spell matrix and you place the spell matrix, in a position that doesn''t match the rune. your spell matrix won''t work.¡±


    It was the right decision to come to ask for help, I don''t know how long I would have been stuck if I didn''t. I could literally feel the weight on my chest disappear. Letting out a breath in relief, I said: "Thank you, I can''t begin to tell how much stress this spell matrix was causing me.¡± Tapping the head portion of the outline, He said, "It''s not a problem, I''m here to help. Now while we''ve found the how and the why. We still need to make sure you can find the proper position, to place your spell matrix.¡±The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    With a slight scowl on his face, He said, "This isn''t a technique, I would normally suggest using, but it''s a start. Just don''t make it a habit, or you will never develop the proper instincts and skills. Necessary to dive into the deeper depths of spellcraft. This is basically a shortcut, in matching the rune to the position in your body. All you have to do is condense this rune; first, it represents the head.¡± Using his finger to circle the rune, he had pointed out earlier. He said, "Than fill it with mana and let it go. It will lead you to the right position. Once it stops moving, you''ll know your in the right position. Then you can condense the other runes and form your spell matrix.¡±


    Once I got the answer, I wasted no time in getting back into the proper meditation pose. Sinking my awareness into my body, I felt the world fade away. Replaced by the flowing currents of the mana inside me. Smoothly getting my bearings, I got right to work condensing the runic image. It looked a lot like a twisted fork, by the time I was done. Folding in the mana, once it glowed fully I released it. Following it with my awareness as it traveled through the twisting currents of mana. After what felt like forever, it finally came to a stop. Using my awareness, I noticed that this position didn''t look any different. From where I tried to form the spell matrix before. But I''m sure Mancin wouldn''t lie to me.


    Not letting the quick flash of doubt stop me. I began to condense the other runes. Once I had all the runic images condensed. I started filling each one with mana. It looked like I had a small field of stars floating in my awareness. After taking a second to enjoy the beautiful sight, I tapped into that part of me that could feel the vibrational frequency. Adjusting the frequency of each rune until I felt that perfect feeling. The spell matrix quickly began to form, as I connected each rune together. Until finally the whole spell matrix spun. Shining brightly in my awareness. I waited, holding my breath. Because I was so afraid that it would fall apart again and that this spell matrix was never going to work.


    Just when I was about to be overwhelmed by doubt. The whole spell matrix released a harmonic ring and stopped moving. It worked, it really worked, I was so excited I couldn''t wait to share the great news. Pulling myself from my meditation and Smiling at Mancin, as I felt my eyes start to burn. I said, "It worked! I just.. I don''t have words, it''s been so frustrating.¡± Getting up and coming around the table. Wrapping me in a bear hug and slapping me on the back. He said, "Congratulations, I know it can be hard to figure out a problem once you''ve hit a wall. But not only did you persevere and not give up. You had the courage to come and ask for help when you couldn''t figure out the problem.¡±

 3.6

    Stepping away from me and heading back towards his seat. Mancin said, "Why don''t you try using your new spell matrix. Just so you know what it feels like to cast one. It will help stop you getting the phobia about using spell matrixes, most apprentices are prone to. Yes, spell matrixes are temporary, unless they''re a part of your core matrix. But once you make a spell matrix, it gets easier to make it again.¡±


    Giving me an accusing look, He said: "So there is no reason to hold onto one like it''s more important than it is.¡± Holding up my hands in surrender, I said, "No, no, you don''t have to tell me. I totally get it, I don''t plan on not using this spell matrix. I''ll do it right now if it will put your mind at ease.¡± shaking his head in encouragement. He said, "Good, you do that, and after, we can talk about. Some of your other problem areas that I noticed.¡± Looking at him confused, I said, "What other problem areas? I didn''t even bring up anything except this spell matrix.¡± His face sternly scrunched, He said, "There''s no need to worry it''s not that serious, for now. Anyway, we''ll get to that after you use your spell matrix .¡±


    Getting into a more comfortable position, I thought over what I knew about casting a spell matrix. After forming a spell matrix, it would stay in your body until you used it. All you had to do was insert your awareness into the spell matrix to activate it. After being cast, it would disintegrate. But just like with forming a spell matrix, the process is essential. If you don''t control how you put your awareness into a spell matrix. It can affect how much mana you waste and the area affected by a cast spell matrix.


    With Mancin''s words still fresh in my mind,. I decided to just go for it and not worry about if I did something wrong. That caused the Spell matrix not to work. When I could just make another spell matrix if it didn''t work. Taking a deep, slow breath, I sunk my awareness into my body. I''m not sure what it was, but the minute I found my awareness surrounded by the currents of mana. I knew exactly where my spell matrix was. Sending my awareness, streaming towards the spot where I felt the matrix.


    Just as my awareness touched the spell matrix. It seeped into the runes and flowing the connections. Causing the whole matrix to shine brightly. A wave of mana spread from the spell matrix. Feeling the surge of mana rather than seeing it surround my body. I could barely contain my excitement, as I felt the feeling of weightlessness take ahold of me. Trying to pull most of my awareness away from the spell matrix without stopping it. It was like splitting your concentration in two.


    Sure reading a book, while you ate an apple wasn''t hard. But trying spinning an apple on your finger. While at the same time, striving to carry on a full conversation and walk. That''s the level of difficulty an apprentice has to deal with to use spell matrixes.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. But I was determined to succeed on my first try. I had all this knowledge and these experiences crammed in my head. I should definitely be able to do this easily. Separating a few strands of my awareness, to keep the spell matrix going. Turned out to be easier than I thought it would. Sure, I had a few slip-ups as I tried to withdraw most of my awareness from the spell matrix.


    But pretty soon I was looking at Mancin as I floated above the couch in an awkward sitting position. Smiling at me, He said, "Not to bad on your first try casting a spell matrix. Your hold on the spell matrix seems to be pretty steady and your casting time is about two minutes. Overall I''d rate you a solid two out of five on the casters scale. Which isn''t bad, considering most apprentices rate one at best. Of course, there are exceptions, but I''d say one out of every twenty or so apprentices. No, come down so we can talk.¡±


    Breaking my connection with the spell matrix, I immediately felt it disintegrate. With it keeping me up, I plopped down onto the couch. Letting out a huff, as I righted myself on the couch. I said, "There, I''ve used my spell matrix. Now can you tell me about these problem areas of mine?¡± Rolling his eyes, at my Antics. He said, "Ugh, I see hanging out with Madison bad behavior has rubbed on you. Anyway, what I wanted to talk to you about was, well. I''m not trying to sound degrading about where you come from. But because from what you''ve shone. Of your splotchy knowledge of magic, at least the magi type of magic. Which isn''t really surprising, considering high cliff is a more shaman dominate province. That just won''t work out well for Edens admissions tests.¡±


    Coughing, he waved at the same bookcase from before. Causing two books this time to come flying over, landing beside the others already on the table. Moving all the books in a row. He said, "Now, I''m more than willing to help you with whatever and whenever you need. But making sure your fundamentals, are more well rounded. I''d like for you to take these books to study.¡± Pointing at the new addition, on the far left of the row of books on the table. He said ¡°This book is called spatermer¡¯s brake, it''s more of a study guide. On how to break down spell matrixes, into pieces and decipher how those pieces go together. It''s a great book for budding apprentices to really learn the more intricate parts of spellcraft.¡±


    Moving to the new addition to its right. He said ¡°This book is called Junior''s almanac, it basically a listing of runes and their uses. One of my favorite sayings is if you know the use of a rune than you know a component of a spell matrix.¡± Waving his hand towards the books that had already been on the table, he said, "These are more advanced books. Just in case you get done with the beginner level reading and want to give the advance stuff a shot. You can take these too but just make sure you have the basics down first.¡±

 3.7

    Looking at Mancin, as I put the books in my Spatial focus following Daphnia¡¯s instructions. I said ¡°Thank you for the books and of course I''ll treat studying them very seriously. I want to be the best I can be before Edens admissions tests.¡± Smiling, He said, "That''s reassuring, I knew I saw the heart of a scholar in you..¡± He paused, turning his head to the side.


    Looking into the distance, as his eyes glowed a blue hue. He mumbling something I didn''t quite catch. Turning his head back, to look at me. He said, "Well, it looks like our time might be cut short. My lovely wife just informed me, that Alfred is here to pick up Madison. I guess they made plans a few days ago, to go see Madame Astred today. Madison wanted me to ask if you would like to go with them?¡±


    The last time I went out with them, things didn''t turn out for the best. But this time I''m better prepared to handle trouble. Plus I''ve got my permit, so I can''t get into trouble for not having it, either. Although I don''t know who Madame Astred is but she sure sounded interesting. No, I can''t let my curiosity get the best of me. I just told Mancin that I''d take studying for Edens admissions tests, seriously.


    My indecision must have shown on my face, Because. Mancin said, "While I truly believe learning is important. It won''t be the end of the world if you don''t start right now. Plus Madam Astred is known as one of Free cities best mana tenders. People from all over the city to haven help them with their mana.¡±


    My eyes shining, I said, "Really, are you sure? I just told you I''d take studying seriously.¡± Interrupting me before I could continue, smiling. Mancin said, "Kyle, just stop. This isn''t some test to see how serious you are about studying. Going out and experiencing life can be great chances to learn something new.¡±


    Standing up, He said, "Come on, let''s get out there. So you can go, experience more of the city for yourself.¡± Following behind Mancin as we walked out of his study, back into the grove. I said, "I''d just like to say thank you again for your help.¡±This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    Pausing, He said, "It''s not a problem.¡± Coming up to Daphnia, Madison, and Alfred as they talked about their plans for today. Turning towards us, Daphnia said, "Ah, there they are, see I told you both they''d be out shortly.¡± Getting up and rushing at me. Madison said, "Come on, you need to change, so we can get going. If we want to get there before noon.¡±


    We said our goodbyes and I thanked Daphnia for breakfast. As Madison pushed us out the door. Taking maybe ten minutes to reach my room. Shoving me through the door. Madison said, "Hurry up and get changed, I don''t want to be late, and I hate dealing with the crowds of East Hill.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, there''s no need to push me," I said, shutting the door behind me so I could change. It didn''t take me long to finish getting ready. Checking my reflection in the floor-length mirror, Before heading towards the door. Setting off down the ever twisting paths of the city. After walking for over half an hour, did it dawn on me how big Free city was. We had been walking down, the same Long cobblestone hallway broken up by wooden doors and intersection of other hallways.


    Just when I thought we¡¯d never get out this hallway. We came out onto a busy street, crowded by a sea of people. Wearing heavy fabrics of various colors that hung on their bodies. With large gold rings on their fingers, necklaces made of large diamonds glistening in the sunlight and giant gaudy earrings framing their faces. It was a spectacle, to mention the heavy smell of clashing perfumes that clogged my nose.


    Coughing, I said, "Madison, what is wrong with these people, and why didn''t you warn me about the awful smell?¡±


    Laughing, she said, "Where''s the fun in that, I really wanted to see how you''d react. It was definitely worth it too. Those people? They call themselves the elated throng. But they''re really just servants of the nobles and the wealthy. Copying anything they think is a trend that the nobles do.¡± My nose burnt, from the overload of fragrance. My stomach turned with nausea from the swirling colors of the crowd. Trying not to puke, I said, "Are we close to Madame Astred¡¯s? Because I don''t know if I can handle this crowd.¡±


    Her face scrounged into a frown, She said, "Not that I blame you, but yes we''re close. We just need to head further into East hill, for a few more blocks. Reaching towards me and pulling my arm. She said, "Come on, the sooner we get through this. The sooner we can get to Madame Astred.¡±

 3.8

    Spending the next twenty minutes, going through street after street, crowded by people. With Madison''s hand being my only guide, as I was surrounded by countless layers of fabric and a medley of clawing scents, that choked me. I was on the verge of having a mental breakdown, from the lack of space and clean air. Just as I felt the last bit of my sanity start to crumble. Space opened up around us. As the crowd of gaudy people, dispersed in different directions. Taking huge gulps of semi-untainted air, I said ¡°You... could have.. given me. A minute to prepare! Before dragging me through that.¡±


    With her body radiating tension. Madison said, ¡°Listen, there was no way around it, we could have traveled an extra thirty minutes and still had to deal with that nauseating mess. Plus what would being prepared do for you? This right nothing.¡± Taking a deep breath, She said: "I''m sorry for snapping like that, the crowds here drive me up a wall, and I just wanted to get it done with.¡± I could understand that, it''s not like she did it on purpose, this time. Shrugging my shoulders, I said, "It¡¯s fine, please tell me we''re almost there?¡±


    Raising her arm, pointing halfway across the huge circular plaza. She said, "Yup, that''s the place right there.¡± Reaching the building she had pointed at. The first thing I noticed was the yellow sign that hung above the door. It read Mystia Cafe in big dark green cursive letters. Going through the glass door under the sign, we entered a small room. It had white walls, speckled with green and blue spots. With dark brown benches lining the walls. It wasn''t what I expected of such a big building that''s for sure. Before I could ask Madison about what was going on.


    A young lady wearing a long white robe, with long brown hair pulled back into a ponytail. Came through a door, I had obviously missed. When I was checking out the room before. Smiling at us, bowing slightly. She said, "Welcome to Mystia Cafe, do you have an appointment?¡± Returning her smile, coming forward. Madison said, "Yes, we do, it should be for Hayward.¡± As the lady''s eyes turned a milky white color. She said, "Ah yes, we have an appointment for a Hayward, with Madame Astred. She''s finishing up a session with a customer. But I can take you to your table to wait.¡±You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Heading to the wall towards our right. As the lady placed her hand against its speckled surface. A door shaped section of the wall slid sideways. Turning back to face us. Waving her arm towards the new opening, softly. She said, "Follow me, please.¡± Following behind Behind Madison and Alfred, as they trailed behind her. We entered a room, it was filled with turbid clouds of scented smoke. You would think after going through the crowds of East hill, with their nauseating fragrances. My nose would be overloaded by another scent, but this one was very soothing. It was a very mellow and earthy scent. It reminded me of the forests outside my village.


    Even though it was hard to see, past the cloudy smoke. I could just make out the outline of a big, half-circle table, as we passed them. Reaching the wall at the back of the room. Turning to her right, towards a smaller half-circle table. Bowing slightly again. the lady said, "Please sit, Madame Astred will be with you shortly.¡± Watching her walk away, disappearing into the turbid cloud of smoke. As Madison and Alfred took their seats, along the rounded side of the table. Taking my spot, on the left side of the table.


    Turning to Madison, I said, "What''s up with this place, everything here is weird?¡±


    Looking thoughtful, Madison said, "I could see why you feel that way. But don''t worry, it''s all part of the process. Mystia Cafe is run by the three, Astair sisters. They are all Mana Tenders, but they each use their abilities differently. The eldest sister uses plants to help people with mana problems. While the youngest uses crystals and the middle sister uses. Hmm, the closest I can come to describing it as ceremony.¡±


    Before Madison could continue talking, she paused. Turning her head sideways to look at something behind me. Just as I was about to turn around. I heard the soft squeak of wheels, coming from beside me. Out of the corner of my eye. I caught sight of an old lady, pushing a small cabinet like cart. Her grey hair tied in a tidy bun, on top of her head, shifted slightly. As she came around the table, positioning her cart by the chair across from us. Looking at Madison and Alfred, Smiling. She said, "It¡¯s great to see both of you again. It''s been too long, hmm, I think the last time I saw you both. You were both just tiny tots.¡±

 3.9

    Turning, looking at me with her milky grey eyes. The spindly old woman said, "Now, who is this young fellow? I''ve been told I never forget a face and I believe I know all of the young ones of the free city. Who have special circumstances.¡±


    Leaning forward Madison said, ¡°Madame Astred, he''s..¡± But before she could continue.


    The old women, that I now know, as Madame Astred. Turned her head sharply, locking onto Madison with her hawk-like eyes. Astred said, "I wasn''t asking you! I was asking him, and he''s the one that should answer.¡±


    Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Madison¡¯s body tense. Getting ready to respond, she clutched the arms of her chair. Alfred grabbed her arm, causing her to pause. Shaking his head, as Madison looked at him. She released her white-knuckle grip on the arms of the chair while taking a calming breath.


    Before the situation could deteriorate, I rushed to introduce myself. Slightly coughing as I bowed my head. I said, "My name is Kyle Greenar, Madame Astred. I''ve been staying with the Haywards. As they help me get a permanent residency permit.¡± Looking slightly disappointed, sitting in the chair across from us. She said, "That''s not what I asked you. But don''t worry, you''re not the first to give me the wrong answer, and you definitely won''t be the last.


    I''m so confused, I thought she asked me who I was, how did I answer that wrong.


    Madame Astred began to pull out; three small teacups, a teapot, a little gold whisk and stone jars of various sizes. From the cabinet like doors on the cart. The cups and matching teapot we''re made of dark blue pigment. With gold flecks running through it, that matched the gold whisk.


    As Madame Astred lined up the items, she pulled from her cart. Mumbling to herself, she said, "Astred old girl, why do you always get your hopes up. When you ask that question. You know, you always get the same response.¡±


    Letting out a sad sigh. She said, ¡°I can tell why your here, just by looking at you."


    Pointing at Alfred, She said, "You need something to soothe that throat of yours.¡±


    Moving her finger over, pointing at Madison, she said, ¡°You young lady, need something to cool you down.¡±Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    I''m not exactly sure what she was talking about. But by the looks on Madison and Alfred''s faces. I Could tell her words meant something to them. I was a little scared and interested in what she was going to say about me. For some reason, I don''t understand. My heart started to pound as she slid her finger left.


    Pointing at me, She said, ¡°Now there''s you.¡± Her face fell, as her eyes began to shine with a bright white light. Just as quickly as the light came, it disappeared from her eyes. Looking sad, She said, "I don''t want to get your hopes up, so I''ll just tell you upfront. I''m afraid there isn''t much I can do for you. Regardless, you are more than welcome to sit at my table and enjoy my tea.¡±


    I should have known, Daphnia wouldn''t have counted out Madam Astred. If she could have helped me with my mana scaring. Bowing slightly, awkwardly I said, ¡°Thank you, Madame Astred, I''d still like to enjoy your tea.¡±


    Arranging the teacups in front of us, as she shifted the jars by her side. Then with a flip of her sleeve. She lifted the lid of the teapot, causing steam to billow out of its opening. As the unnatural steam spread from the teapot, in waves. Mingling with the already turbid air in the room. Grab one of the smaller jars, pouring its content into the teapot. The steam coming from its opening took on a rose hue. Replacing the jar in her hand for a slightly larger one. This one she just took a dash from and threw it into the teapot. The steam transformed in color from a slight rose hue to a deep ocean blue.


    I couldn''t even see past the giant blue cloud of steam. But I could feel the mana in the steam, start to press on my body. Just when I started feeling little pinches all over my body. A deep thrum resonated through the steam, causing it to ripple. The vibrations kept changing pitch, setting my teeth on edge. I didn''t feel very good I kinda regretted. Agreeing to try Madame Astred¡¯s tea, if this is what I had to go through. All of a sudden, the steam changed from a deep blue to a bright green color. Bringing with it the smell of fresh apples and honeysuckle in bloom.


    The lights of a thousand different colors. Flashed through my vision. My stomach twisting with nausea as my sense of direction and location disappeared. I felt like a boat cast adrift in a storm. Feeling a weightless pressure descend on my body. I heard a voice that sounded like raspy wooden wind chimes. As it is below, so it is above. The body is the foundation for your consciousness and spirit. It is the field that you must plant your crop. As well as what you shall reap come the dusk of autumn.

 3.10

    As the voice finished speaking. Leaving my skin feeling raw from its deep baritone. The bright green mist began to ripple. Rolling back to reveal my immediate surroundings. The first thing I noticed was Madame Astred¡¯s glowing eyes. That looked like two white stars. Just looking at them, made my eyes burn. As if I was trying to stare directly into the sun. Shifting my eyes away from the painful sight. I took in Madison and Alfred.


    Who looked like they were in a trance, staring off into space. Madison''s eyes flickered with deep red flames. While Alfred didn''t have the outward appearance. Of being affected by the mist. He was quite obviously in a trance. As the cocoon of green mist circled around us. Madame Astrid waved her arm over the dark blue teapot. Causing three different colored orbs of liquid, to fly out from it. The orb that was rose-colored flew into the cup, in front of Alfred. The royal blue orb flew into Madison¡¯s cup.


    As the final orb of liquid which was a murky green color fell in my teacup. Placing her arms beside the teapot. Drumming her fingers in arhythmic staccato. With her voice sounding, like multiple people were talking at one time. Madame Astred said, ¡°You may now drink.¡±


    After drinking the tea, in one fell swoop. Breathing deeply, bowing slightly, Alfred said: "Thank you.¡± Before I could take in the changes in his voice.


    Madison followed his lead, finishing her tea. Bowing slightly, She said, ¡°Thank you, Madame Astred.¡± I didn''t really notice anything different about her though.


    Hurrying to follow their lead, I grabbed the teacup in front of me. Pushing it to my lips, I couple smell the rich and floral scent of the tea. As the liquid traveled down my throat. I felt my body temperature rise, it was electrifying.


    The electric sparks I felt running along my senses disappeared. As a soothing wave came over me. Bowing slightly, I said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    As Madame Astred¡¯s eyes returned to their normal grey color. The green most surrounding us dispersed. As she put away her tools, returning them to their positions in her cart. It took a few minutes for Madison and Alfred to fully come out of their trances. But after they did, they bowed to her again. Thanking her for all the help, she gave them.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Once she was done tidying up, the space around her. Turning to us, with a tired smile on her. She said, "It¡¯s what I do. It''s my and my sisters calling in life. To help anyone we can.¡±


    letting out a sigh, She said, ¡°It is tiring, but that''s the path we chose to walk.¡±


    Turning to me, the smile slipping from her face. As she took in my pale face. She said, "I didn''t think it would be that hard for you. To go through my ceremony, but it was obviously a trail for you. I''m sorry.¡±


    As we came out of the halls connecting East hill to West end. I still felt like I could smell the nauseating scents. From walking through the crowds of East hill, wafting from our bodies. Turning towards one of the food stalls as we walked by it. Pressing her hand to her stomach. Madison said, ¡°I''m so hungry. Let ''s stop here and get some food!¡±


    Following behind her as she rushed towards the stall. Zipping through the sparse crowd. Before I could see where she went, she had disappeared. Trying my best to follow Alfred instead. His back got further and further away. As I felt my joint start to burn from exertion. Catching up to his still frame. With my hands on my knees, trying to catch my breath. As sweat dripped from my brow. I said, "You guys.. have to stop.. going so fast..¡±


    Straightening my body, I finally saw. What caused Alfred to pause, standing in front of him. Was a familiar trio of guys that were apart of the group. Madison got into a fight with at Perfect potions. The man in the lead that looked like a rat. With Sneer in his face. He said, "Well, what do we have here. The mute from sundry and his tag along. Chasing after that little spitfire, are we?¡±


    I could literally feel Alfred tense. As his mana began to fluctuate, rolling off his body. To my talent, it felt like hundreds of bees were buzzing, along with my senses. I really think he would have attacked them. If not for the timely intervention of a man. Wearing a badge. That read patrolman of the free city in big, bold print. Yelling, as he rushed our group. He said, "Break it up! there will be no fighting here.¡±


    The crowd around us started to back up, sensing the apparent growing tension.

 4.1

    Reaching our group the patrolman. Stepped in between us, and the group from Ravens Fare. The first thing I noticed after he stepped between us. Was the rough, and dull runes lining his uniform, flashing repeatedly. They might have looked unassuming, but my talent made it very clear they were beyond sturdy.


    With his shoulders tensed, in preparation for trouble. Lifting his hands, out towards both our parties. In a gruff voice, the Patrolman Said, "I''m going to need to see all of your permits. There will no fighting, and you all will be getting marked with a warning. For attempting to violate the peace. Am I understood?"


    Instead of following the orders given by the patrolman. The man in the middle of the group. With a long nose that made him look like a rat, stepped forward. With a slimy smile and a nasal whine. He said, "We weren''t going to fight, we''re just friends with little rivalry. There''s no need to give us a warning, right?" As the lie rolled off his tongue. I saw a rune on the patrolman''s jacket, vibrate and release a flash red.


    The Scowl on the patrolman''s face deepened. Shooting the rat-faced man, a disgusted look. He said, "Are you sure you want to continue with that line? If you do, I feel obligated to tell you. I have a truth-telling incantation, ready to verify your statement."


    I watched as the rat-faced man''s face. Paled in fright, from being caught in a lie. Spluttering, he said, "Umm¡­ no, no need to bother you, with the extra work."


    Fumbling, at the shoddy brass-buckle that hung from his side: It looked like a small plate with a chunk of smoky-quartz crystal in the middle, with runes spiraling out from its center. That made it evident that it was his spatial focus. Pulling out his permit and handing it to the patrolman. He said, "Here''s.. my permit, sir. Do you need anything else?"


    He obviously wasn''t as strong-willed. As the previous leader, of the thugs from ravens fare. The toady henchmen by his side hurried to follow his lead. Reaching for their spatial focuses and handing over their permits to the patrolman. Noticing, Alfred pulling his permit, from his spatial focus. While also not wanting to get the third-degree, like the rat-faced man. I reached for my spatial focus, pulling out my permit. I handed it to the patrolman after Alfred had handed his permit over.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    Back across Free city, in the Mystia Cafe. In a cozy private room, that was obviously an office. Sitting behind the honey oak desk, was Madame Astred. With a tired frown on her face, she drank a cup of soothing tea. A blue glow started to shine on the chair across from her. As little white specks of light began to shift inside the blue glow. A projection of Mancin took shape. Coughing, the projection opened its mouth. It said, "Can you hear me okay, Astred?"


    As Madame Astred placed her teacup, on the coaster in front of her. Letting out a sigh, she said, "Yes, Mancin I can hear you just fine. I take it you''re contacting me, about the group of younglings you sent my way?"


    As the Projection of Mancin shifted forward. It said, "Yes, how was it, were you able to help them with their problems at all?" Turning its head, the projection froze. As the edges of the projection blurred slightly. Looking at Madame Astred, It said, "Oh, yes Daphnia, wanted me to tell you hello and asked if you were doing well?"


    Giving the projection, a slight smile. Madame Astred said, "That sounds just like Daphnia. Tell her I''m doing fine, and we should definitely get together sometime soon. As for that interesting group of younglings. I was able to provide some assistance to young Alfred and your daughter. Alfred''s talent has definitely gotten stronger. Since the last time, I saw him, which can be expected. Luckily, Madison''s talent, on the other hand, has stayed the same. It''s unfair how that poor sweet girl. Got saddled with such a vicious talent. That kyle though, I couldn''t help him even having him go through my tea ceremony. Was a bad idea, I didn''t realize how sensitive his talent makes him."


    The projections smile slowly slipped from its face. As Madame Astred had continued to report her findings. A deep sigh came from the projection. As it gave Madame Astred a slight bow, It said, "Thank you Astred, even though you couldn''t help kyle. You still tried, and this is a great clue we can take with us. When we talk to Desmond, about Kyl''s talent. At least you were able to help the others, so that makes it worth it."


    As the patrolman was going over our permits. I heard a familiar high-pitched yell, coming from my left. Turning to see, Madison maneuvering through the crowd, racing towards us. But I wasn''t the only one to notice her shouting. As the patrolman looked up from reading our permits. I saw the minute he laid eyes on Madison. The stony frown on his face softened into a slight smile.

 4.2

    Coming through, the crowd around us. Smiling at the patrolman, Madison said, ¡°Marcus, how have you been?


    With his slight smile turning into a full-blown grin, Marcus said. ¡°If it isn¡¯t Madison Hayward. How have you been? I¡¯ve been fine just doing the same old stint.


    Invading his space to hug him, pulling back.


    The same smile still plastered on Madison¡¯s face. She said, ¡°I¡¯ve been well, and that¡¯s good to hear. It¡¯s been what, at least a few months since I last saw you?¡±


    As they separated, scratching his face awkwardly, looking thoughtful. He said, ¡°I think the last time we saw each other. Was the autumn festival the previous year.¡±


    Just like that, it was like the rest of us disappeared. Patrolman Marcus only had eyes for Madison. Must be that Hayward charm.


    Batting her lashes at him, She said. ¡°Oh yeah, that was fun. Anyway, what¡¯s going on here. Have these two caused you trouble, Marcus?¡±


    I could see the dawning realization, cross Marcus¡¯s face. That he had forgotten entirely about the people around him. Coughing He said, ¡°Oh, you know these two, Madison?¡±


    Pointing at Alfred, Madison said, ¡°Yes, I know them, this is Alfred Fowntain.¡± Then moving in my direction, She said, ¡°This is Kyle Greenar, he¡¯s currently. Being watched over by my parents.¡±


    His eyes creased as he looked over Alfred. Inspecting him, as if he was a unique exhibit and Marcus didn¡¯t look impressed. There was a different type of tension in the air. He didn¡¯t even bother to look at me. I feel like I should be offended.


    Turning his head, back towards the permits in his hand. Marcus said, ¡°Well, it was nice seeing you again, Madison. But I¡¯m currently working, so I don¡¯t have time to talk.¡±


    Well, this was awkward whatever charm had first caught Marcus¡¯s attention, was broke. Now the stony-faced patrolman was back. I was so hoping, Madison was going to get us out of trouble.


    Passing their permits back to the group from Ravens Fare. Marcus said, ¡°I¡¯ve put a warning on your permits. If you¡¯re caught causing any more trouble. Expect to get fined and possible jail time. Now get going and quit being nuisances.¡±Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Their faces as they huffed and stormed off were priceless. I felt a slight ripple across my senses. As my talent let me feel a bubble of mana surrounded us. Turning to us, wearing a stern look on his face. Handing us our permits, Marcus said, ¡°Now for you guys, It was quite evident that you guys were on the receiving end of bad intentions. So I¡¯ll let you go with only a verbal warning.¡±


    What!? That¡¯s not what I was expecting at all. Just as I was about to thank him in gratitude. I noticed the rune on his chest was glowing red. The same rune that operates as a lie detector. He¡¯s lying! He must just want to look good in front of Madison. Which means our permits probably have a warning on them too. I guess you need to be a good actor to be a patrolman. I wish I were paying more attention when he was handling the permits. So I knew how the warnings were added.


    Watching him walk away after giving Madison. What I can only now see as a slimy smile, I felt the bubble of mana surrounding us pop. Following Alfred¡¯s lead, I worriedly put my permit in my spatial focus. I¡¯m definitely going to have to mention this to them. But I¡¯ll wait till we¡¯re not so exposed to so many people.


    Turning to Madison, with a frown, in a gruff tone. He said, ¡°Maddy, you need to stop running off. This whole mess could have been avoided if I wasn¡¯t busy trying to catch up to you.¡±


    Looking down, Madison said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I just got too excited.¡±


    Oh! Her face how can someone look that sad and repentant. With using mana or at least not any form my talents picking up. Taking a peek at Alfred¡¯s face, to see his reaction, it was stone cold! Wait, there¡¯s a slight twitch next to his eye. He must be trying not to react to Madison¡¯s charm. I wish I could just reach into his head and see what he¡¯s thinking right now. I wonder if he¡¯s going to say something o just stand there.


    Letting out a breath in defeat, Alfred said, ¡°I know, that was just really stressful. I didn¡¯t mean to take it out on you.¡±


    He caved, it¡¯s not surprising after watching them interact with each other. Plus Madison¡¯s parents weren¡¯t joking. When they said, Alfred couldn¡¯t stay mad at Madison for too long.


    Lifting her head, beaming Alfred with a huge smile. Madison said, ¡°Really. If your really sorry you¡¯ll treat me to lunch, right?¡±

 4.3

    Entering the food stall, Madison had guided us to. Passing through the heavy curtains, that blocked the doorway. The heavenly smell of slow-cooked meat and stewed vegetables wafted into my nose. Accompanied by the noise coming from the packed tables. Catching little chunks of conversation. As we made our way to an open table, on the other side of the room.


    ¡°Did you hear about the infestation of long-tailed scrapers, in the south crux?¡± said a man, slamming his mug against the table. With a beard so long, it disappeared under the table.


    My eyes slide across, a woman wearing a Dark-green dress. As she said


    ¡°Poor Dianna, she didn¡¯t deserve what that dirty-pig did to her. I told her she should have left him sooner.¡±


    Taking our spots at the empty table. A waitress in a blue-grey dress came by. Lifting a small pad, She said, ¡°Welcome to the Spotted Crow, what can I get you?¡±


    Looking at the waitress Madison, smiled and said, ¡°We haven¡¯t been here before, what are our options?¡±


    Returning Madison¡¯s smile, the waitress said ¡°Our specials for the day are: Chicken Patty on a bed of sea greens, Twenty-four-hour stewed duck with rice, Stoned Cracked Chicken and Baked Pheasant with Bread Pudding.


    ¡°Yum! That sounds absolutely delicious.¡± Madison said, smacking her lips, In hunger. Turning her head, to look at us, she said: ¡°What are you guys thinking of getting?¡±


    In his usual baritone, Alfred said, ¡°I think I¡¯m going with the Baked Pheasant with Bread Pudding.¡±


    Taking a second to decide what I wanted to get, I said, ¡°I am gonna have the Twenty-four-hour Stewed Duck with Rice.


    With a thoughtful look on her face, Madison said, ¡°Hmm, I think I will go with the Baked Pheasant with Bread Pudding as well.¡±


    Turning her head to look at the waitress, Madison said, ¡°We will take two Baked Pheasant with Bread Pudding and one Twenty-four-hour Stewed Duck with rice.¡±


    Scribbling on the small pad, the waitress said, ¡°Okay, that will be ready in a few minutes. Can I get you anything to drink?¡±


    Not taking any time to respond, Madison said, ¡°I¡¯ll take some water.¡±


    Chiming in Alfred said, ¡°I¡¯ll also take water.¡±


    I really wanted juice, but I didn¡¯t want to be a hassle. Smiling, I said, ¡°I guess, I¡¯ll take water too.¡±


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Pocketing her small pad, the waitress said, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be back shortly with your food.¡±


    Watching her walk away, I thought about telling Madison and Alfred. About Marcus lying, but then thought about all the snippets of conversation. I caught, walking through the room. It probably would be better to wait till I can talk to Mancin and Daphnia. Plus their rooms have wards that are way better for privacy.


    While I was lost in my thoughts, our waitress brought our food. Standing by our table, holding a wide-rimmed tray, with three plates of food and our glasses of water on it.


    Picking up two of the plates of food from the tray perched on the edge of the table. Placing them in front of Madison and Alfred. The waitress said, ¡°Here ya go, two plates of the Baked Pheasant and bread pudding.¡±


    Picking up the last plate on the tray, placing it in front of me. She said, ¡°And one plate of Twenty-four hour Stewed duck with rice.¡±


    Smiling at us, the waitress said, ¡°Here are your waters, if you guys need anything just wave and I¡¯ll be right over.¡±


    Finishing our meal, it was delicious. It was perfect, turning to Madison, I said, ¡°That was perfect, it was a great choice coming here. Thanks, Madison.¡±


    Paying our bill and leaving the food stall. Making our way through the late evening crowd. It was a completely different experience from the day time crowd. The people in the crowd wandered around in a haze, instead of walking with purpose. There was a heavy scent of alcohol. That drifted on the night breeze, around the streets of West end. At least it wasn¡¯t a problem to keep up with Madison, no one was in a rush.


    Entering the corridor leading to the Hayward¡¯s rooms. Stopping Madison, I said, ¡°I¡¯m really tired after today. I think I¡¯m just going to go to my room.¡±


    Smiling at both Madison and Alfred, I said. ¡°Please thank your parents for breakfast this morning, and Thanks for inviting me, today was fun.¡±


    Looking at me in surprise, Madison said, ¡°Oh okay, and it¡¯s not a problem.¡±


    Smiling, She said, ¡°I¡¯m glad you could come, I had fun too. We¡¯ll take you to your room then head to my parent¡¯s rooms after.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure I don¡¯t want to be any trouble,¡± I said, looking at Madison questioningly.


    Laughing, Madison said, ¡°It¡¯s not a problem at all. Right, Alfred?¡±


    Shaking his head in agreement, Alfred said, ¡°Ya, it¡¯s basically on the way to your parent¡¯s rooms anyway.¡±


    It didn¡¯t take us long to reach my room. Along the winding corridors of West end. We said our goodbyes and parted ways at my door. Entering my room, shutting my door behind me. I let a breath in tired relief from the stresses of the day.

 4.4

    I had an exciting day, that¡¯s for sure. It was nice of Madison and Alfred to invite me on their outing. But I¡¯m definitely glad to get some time by myself. I have a lot I want to get done and not a lot of time. Before Edens admissions tests start, I don¡¯t even know what there going to be testing. The only thing I can do is prepare as best as I can.


    Taking a minute to think about how I want to go about preparing myself. It¡¯s probably not efficient and wishful thinking that I could learn everything in the books, Mancin gave me. So why not work out the problem from the other end. I¡¯ll pick out a few spell matrixes and use the books to make sure there are no problems with them.


    Getting into a comfortable meditation position on my bed and taking a deep breath, I enter my mind palace. After doing this so many times, it¡¯s not even a challenge anymore. Not even bothering to take in my splotchy mind palace. Heading straight for the upside-down pyramid in the center of my mind palace. I begin looking through the spell matrixes stored inside it. As my awareness flipped through the spell matrixes at my disposal. I thought about what I was going to aim for. I want a few spell matrixes that are flexible to cover a wide variety of situations.


    The first spell matrix to catch my attention was called subtle-charm. But its description left me wanting something more. I can think of several situations where it would be handy. To be able to basically hypnotize a target. But it¡¯s really only suitable for one target at a time. It can also be broken by a moderate amount of stress. Definitely not worth the effort right now. Continuing to look through my collection of spell matrixes.


    I finally decided on several of them to use for Edens upcoming admissions test.


    The first is called mass-illusion when cast it will cause the target to experience an illusion. It¡¯s kind of like the subtle-charm, but it can be used to manipulate targets, which won me over. The second is force-pulse, which allows the caster to release a kinetic-wave from their body. What drew me to this spell matrix is not it¡¯s physical application. But its flexibility in how it can be used for multiple targets or a single opponent.


    The last is called sympathetic-dissonance. Instead of being an illusion-based spell matrix, that affects the mind. It physically attacks the senses constantly causing them to shift with one another. I didn¡¯t only choose this spell matrix to add diversity to the spell matrixes at my disposal. But also because instead of being flexible, it¡¯s only meant to be used against a crowd. Although what it lacks in flexibility, it makes up for with a stronger attack.


    Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    Exiting my mind palace, I felt the awareness of my body and the room around my return. Touching my spatial focus, I pulled out the books, Mancin gave me. Spreading the four books in a line in front of me. Pulling the junior¡¯s almanac towards myself, reading each page. Trying to match each rune in the mass-illusion spell matrix, to one of the runes in the almanac.


    After forty-minutes of flipping page after page. Rubbing my eyes as they burned from being dry. This is way more time-intensive than I thought it would be. I¡¯m still a little under half-way done with checking the runes in first spell matrix.


    After another hour of slowly searching through the juniors almanac. I finally finished checking the first spell matrix. Going over the runes i¡¯d just finished finding, making sure to check for the position rune and the core rune.


    What I found strange was that the position rune of mass-illusion. Matched the position rune from the levitate spell matrix. Deciding to take a break and try condensing the mass-illusion spell matrix. Before trying to research the runes for force-pulse Positioning myself in a more comfortable meditation position.


    Feeling my awareness sink into the flows of mana in my body. Working quickly to get my bearings, I began condensing the position rune first. Watching it turn in my awareness as I began to fill it with mana. Giving off light as it began to vibrate and move through my mana flows. After several minutes of following the position rune, it finally came to a stop.


    Remembering Mancin¡¯s words, about this method of finding the correct position. For a spell matrix, being a crutch. Using my awareness, I tried to feel for some difference in the location the position rune lead me to, but I could feel anything in particular.


    Promising myself, I¡¯d keep trying to find the correct method to condensing a spell matrix. I began to get to work condensing the rest of runes. Even using an almost completely different spell matrix. I was still able to quickly finish condensing the rest of the runes with ease.


    As I finished connecting the last rune to the spell matrix. I felt more than saw a rumble pass through the matrix. I could feel my heart drop, as I thought the whole matrix was going to fall apart. But the rumbling I felt pasted just as quickly as it came. Arcs of mana jumped from one rune to the next until the whole spell matrix glowed brightly. Watching as the Spell matrix for mass-illusion spun in my awareness.

 4.5

    Exiting my meditation, a giant wave of mana pass through my room, causing my skin to prickle. I felt unsettled, the best way I can describe it is the mana felt angry. Feeling slight vibration coming through the stone under my bed. As I shifted my body, stiff from hours of staying in the same position. A more significant rumble shook my room, knocking over the chair by the desk.


    Wondering what was going on, as I thought about using the flower Daphnia left me to contact her. An even bigger quake happened, causing my whole room to shake. Runes intertwined in the stone walls flared to life, as a film of mana spread through the walls covering them in a soft glow.


    The shaking stopped, and if I didn¡¯t have my talent. I probably would have thought everything was fine. But I could still feel the ripples of the same angry mana pass through my room. Just when I was getting ready to get up. I felt a different kind of mana I¡¯d even say familiar, appear in my room. A big blue oval materialized in front of me. As it hovered three feet off the ground, an image of Mancin and Daphnia appeared on its mirror-like surface.


    ¡°Oh Kyle, I¡¯m sure all the racket has got you worried, but there is no need to fret. The cities wards have dispersed the vibrations.¡± Daphnia said, leaning over mancin¡¯s shoulder looking worried.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, I just didn¡¯t know what had happened, that¡¯s all. Actually, I¡¯m still not sure what is happening?¡± I said, staring at Mancin¡¯s eyes. That looked like bright pools of shifting water.


    Looking at Mancin, lovingly, Daphnia said. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely sure, Mancin is looking into it now.¡±


    Just as we finished talking about him, Mancin¡¯s eyes dimmed, returning to their dark-brown color. Giving his body a shake, looking at Daphnia than turning to me. Mancin said, ¡°No need to be overly nervous. There seems to be a nest of long-tailed scrapers, in the south slum. That turned out to be bigger than what was to be expected. The guards were not prepared and made a big mess of things. But they were at least able to push the swarm back to their breeding grounds in the south crux.¡±


    Pausing, his eyes flashing a bright blue color, Macin said. ¡°Well that¡¯s a surprise, I didn¡¯t expect Eden to capitalize on current events. They just sent out a notice to all the trial-takers representatives. That the first test of this Admissions period is to aid the city in combating the long-tailed scraper infestation. Any trial-takers in the city should get ready to head to the long-tailed scrapers nest, to purge them from the city.¡±


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Looking affronted, Daphnia said, ¡°What! How could they expect a group of children to take on a swarm of beasts? Especially with such little preparation and alone at that!¡±


    Grabbing Daphnia¡¯s hands as she started to work herself into a fit. Mancin said, ¡°Dear, think about what Eden is, they only want the best. Not only that, Participants can work in teams, and Long-tailed scrapers aren¡¯t that dangerous. Plus any trial-taker that doesn¡¯t feel up to the task can back out.¡±


    Letting out a breath in defeat, Daphnia said, ¡°I guess you¡¯re right, but it doesn¡¯t mean I have to like it.¡±


    They both turned to look at me. I don¡¯t know, I mean I¡¯m not really prepared, but having a team would definitely lessen the burden. It¡¯s not like I¡¯m defenseless. Either I have my new matrix plus I¡¯m sure I can sling around raw mana if I have to.


    Giving me a reassuring smile, Mancin said. ¡°Listen, Kyle, whatever your choice is we¡¯ll support you.¡±


    Trying to sound as confident, as I was trying to make myself feel, I said. ¡°I want to participate in the attack on the nest of long-tailed scrapers.¡±


    Even though She looked worried, Daphnia said. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll do a great job, and With Madison and Alfred. That makes a battle-triad one of the basic units used for wide-scale battles. Make sure you get some sleep, tomorrow is going to be a busy day. I¡¯ll wake you up or have Mancin wake you up to meet with Madison and Alfred to get ready.¡±


    As participants of Eden¡¯s first trial, across the free city prepared for their first test.


    Along the border of the south slum. Stood not only the city guard but also several Guilds hired for extra aid in combating the long-tailed scrapers.


    Coming back from the slums, the group of patrolmen saluted a tall man with a beard. The patrolman leading the group stepped in front of the others and said. ¡°Captain, we just finished checking the low-wash, and it looks like the swarm haven¡¯t made it that far.¡±


    Shaking his head, the Captain said, ¡°Good, good, with the low-wash, cleared, and twisted-bent cleared we just have to worry about the south-crux.¡±


    The patrolman standing to the right of the man who reported to the Captain. Taking a gulp of air, he said, ¡°But Captain, what about the people in the slums? The wards aren¡¯t strong enough to keep out the swarm.¡±


    Turning to look at the questioning patrolman, smiling the Captain said, ¡°That¡¯s the spirit; we are the free city¡¯s guards. The fact that the slums are still apart of the city, most like to forget. There¡¯s no need to worry that¡¯s what we are here for. While you were checking low-wash, I got a message from the council. It looks like Eden¡¯s first admissions test is to take care of our long-tailed scraper infestation. We are just here to help strengthen the wards protecting the houses. What¡¯s your name patrolman, how long have you been a patrolman?¡±


    Blushing from the compliment, the patrolman said, ¡°Thank you, Sir, my name is Van Hanrick. I¡¯ve been a patrolman for two years now, Captain.¡±

 4.6

    Making my way through the twisting, and turning corridors of the free city, with Madison and Alfred. As we went over what supplies we needed to get for the trial.


    Waving at Alfred, Madison said, ¡°I think it makes more sense to start with getting a good set of armor. Then worry about what kind of potions and weaponry we need.¡±


    Alfred said, ¡°But that means we¡¯d have to double back, and waste time. When we can stop at Mossey¡¯s potions to get potions first. Then head to Finricks Amour to get proper battle-wear and finally to Grandais Action to get weapons.¡±


    They have been arguing over which shop we should go to first since they came to pick me up. It¡¯s honestly like I¡¯m not here, but I don¡¯t really mind. It gives me time to think and to figure out what best would fit with the skills I have available to me.


    As we came out onto a main street crowded with people, With her face tinged red, in irritation. Madison said, ¡°Fine will do it your way. Come on kyle Mossey¡¯s is this way.¡±


    Dragging me off towards the right, headfirst into the bustling mass of people, leaving Alfred in the dust. Coming up to a storefront, with a huge wooden sign. In the shape of a lily pad, that read Mossey¡¯s potions, that hung over the door.


    After keeping up with us through the crowd, Slightly-huffing, Alfred said. ¡°I don¡¯t know why you have to be so irritated. Over the fact that this way saves us time. You even agreed to do it this way, and now you¡¯re acting like a¡­¡±


    Whipping her head around like a snake ready to strike. Madison said, ¡°What were you going to say, hmm.. I¡¯m acting like a what?¡±


    I could almost see the flames of anger burning in her eyes. As the wheels in Alfred¡¯s head turned at a rapid speed. Trying to figure a way out of the mess he got himself into.


    As Madison and Alfred were having a stair-off, a man came out of the shop behind them. With his rainbow-like hair, swaying in the breeze. His Gold snake-like eyes began to sparkle, staring at Madison. He said, ¡°Madison? I thought I heard your beautiful voice out here. Are you here to see me, or maybe you¡¯re finally going to try my wears?¡±


    Turning to look at the man that came from the store, Madison said, ¡°Mossey how are you? Of course, I¡¯m here to see you and to buy some of your wears.¡±


    Smiling at Madison, Mossey said, ¡°I figured, word on the street is Eden¡¯s first trial has started early, and it¡¯s about taking care of the infestation in the south slum.¡±


    Looking at Alfred coldly, Mossey said, ¡°It¡¯s been a while, Alfred?¡±


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.Walking towards me smiling, Mossey said, ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Mossey owner of Mossey¡¯s potions obviously, and who might you be?¡± As he stuck out his hand for me to shake, I noticed the scale running from his pointed fingernails towards his wrist.


    Stiffly returning his smile, I said, ¡°Nice to meet you, my names Kyle Greenar.¡± I don¡¯t know why I have to be so awkward when meeting new people.


    Turning and heading back into his store, waving at us, Mossey said, ¡°Anyway, come inside so we can get you all sorted.¡± With the click of our shoes against the stone floor, in the background. As I took in Mossey¡¯s longer than wide store. Its walls covered in racks filled with potions in a variety of colors and bottles. Some potions even had a deep glow about them, but I couldn¡¯t tell if I could tell they glowed because of my talent or because of what kind of potion they were.


    ¡°I know the potions I provide aren¡¯t like Perfect Potions unique brand. But just because I mass-produce potions doesn¡¯t mean their shoddy potions. I just believe massed produced top-quality potions are a better route than unique potions, at least for me.¡± Mossey said as we made it to his counter in the right corner of his store.


    Going behind the counter, rubbing his palms together, Smiling Mossey said, ¡°Now, I¡¯m relatively certain I know what you plan to use these potions for. But why don¡¯t you guys tell me what you¡¯re looking for? So I can get a feel for what I have that will fit the bill, so to speak.¡±


    Madison and Alfred didn¡¯t even spare a glance at each other. Looking at Mossey, They said, ¡°Let¡¯s start with the basic healing potions, two... no three potions of rejuvenation, a fire suppressant potion, and several potions of concealment.¡±


    Looking at me, Madison said, ¡°Sorry, Alfred, and I discussed what potions we were going to get this morning, on our way to get you. I forgot to ask earlier, what are you planning on getting, Kyle?¡±


    Quickly going over what would best suit my abilities. I said, ¡°Umm, how about a potion of clarity, and several potions of befuddlement.¡±


    Rubbing his chin, Mumbling Mossey said, ¡°Hmm, that¡¯s not too complicated. But what would best fit your situation? Ah, yes, I know just the thing.¡±


    With a snap of his fingers, potions flew off the shelves. The tinkling of glass against glass rang out. As the bottles of potions Landed on the counter in front of us, in little groups.


    Picking up each potion and moving them around. So there was a group in front of each of us. Smiling at us, Mossey said, ¡°Here we go, only the best of what I have in stock, for friends. Three healing, rejuvenation potions, and two concealment potions for each of you. Two fire suppressant potions for the lovely lady. A potion of clarity and something a little better than a potion of befuddlement. One of my personal inventions, I call it black mist.¡±

 4.7

    Heading towards East hill, this time going with the flow of the crowd. Just as we almost crossed over into east hill, we took a sharp right turn. Going down several side streets, I noticed potion stores on what felt like every corner.


    Getting Madison¡¯s and Alfred¡¯s attention. I said, ¡°Mossey was nice, and all, but I¡¯m curious, I¡¯ve seen several potion stores we could have gone to?¡±


    Smiling, Madison said, ¡°Mossey was right in a way when he said Perfect potions serve only unique potions. But that¡¯s not the whole picture, sure if you want a specific potion something that will fit you and your situation to a T, you¡¯d want to go to Perfect potions. That takes a lot of time and money. So when you need good potions, you can count on. It really comes down to trust, You¡¯ll have to find a store that focuses on mass production and Mossey is trustworthy as they come.¡±


    Shaking my head in agreement, I said, ¡°Oh, that makes a lot of sense.¡± It really does now that I think about it, potions are very finicky. Plus, people lie, what¡¯s stopping an alchemist. From saying they used the best ingredients, when, in fact, they used subpar materials at best. When your in a situation where a weak or wrong potion could mean death, I¡¯d want the best too.


    Reaching, a relatively clean section of street. Compared to what we¡¯ve had walked through before. Nestled in between a bookstore and a little cheese shop. Stood Finricks Armour, Its sign a glossy Dark-oak. Heading through the Olive colored front door, the rich-earthy scent of leather and polish wafted into my nose. The tinkle of a bell still slightly ringing as we made our way deeper into the store.


    A man wearing glasses came around the corner of a large shelf, filled with jackets. His smile deepening the wrinkles around his almost jet-black eyes. He said, ¡°Welcome to Finrick¡¯s Armour, how can I help you.¡±


    Returning his smile and stepping forward, Madison said, ¡°Hi, we¡¯re looking for enchanted armor. I¡¯ve heard Finrick¡¯s Armour had the best.¡±


    I¡¯m surprised; honestly, I was starting to think Madison knew everybody in the Free city. I swear, the minute he heard enchanted armor, his eye sparked to life.


    His eye still twinkling, the older man said, ¡°Hmm, I¡¯m guessing, you¡¯re participating in Edens admissions test? Your name wouldn¡¯t happen to be Madison, would it?¡±


    Well, I guess if Madison doesn¡¯t know someone, there is a good chance that person knows her. Looking surprised, Madson said, ¡°Yes, we are participating in Eden¡¯s test, but how do you know me? I¡¯m pretty sure I haven¡¯t met you before.¡±


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    Instead of answering Madison¡¯s question, looking towards Alfred and Me, looking us up and down. He said. ¡°Hmm, you must be Alfred and kyle than.¡±


    Turning back towards Madison, He said, ¡°As for how I know you, I don¡¯t. But to my surprise, late last night, I got tens of orders, placed by a variety of people. They all left descriptions, so I knew who to look for. When they came to pick up their orders. Two of those orders were from your parents.¡±


    Pointing at Alfred, He said, ¡°While another order was placed by his Father.


    ¡°Anyway, best not waste time. I can tell just by looking at you lot, that your parents gave me the correct measurements.¡± He said, clapping, causing three sets of clothes to fly from behind the counter to the left of the shop.


    As each one of the flying outfits flew towards us, landing in our arms. Pointing behind the shelf filled with jackets, he had come from behind. He said, ¡°There are changing rooms that way, don¡¯t worry about paying your parents already covered your bill.¡±


    Following behind Madison, and Alfred as we made our way down the hallway, the old man directed us towards. Coming out of the hall, into a big circular room with seven doors positioned in between giant mirrors. Picking three of the doors closest to us, we separated to get changed. Taking a second, to really look at the outfit that had been in my arms. As I separated the different pieces from one another.


    At first glance, the leather material the armor was made from, looked thin. But it was actually very thick, with some sort of gold thread woven through it. Slipping on the white undershirt, that was made from a material I couldn¡¯t place.


    Pulling up the thick leather pants, buttoning them up. Struggling, with the armor piece that¡¯s obviously supposed to go over the undershirt. It¡¯s straps and snaps crisscrossing, in a complex mesh pattern.


    Coming out of the changing rooms, I saw Madison and Alfred already fully dressed in their armor¡¯s. Our armors almost looked identical, except Alfred had metal sitting on his chest, shoulders, and hips. While Madison¡¯s armor had a deep blue tint to it. With the clopp of heavy-soled boots, accompanying us as we walked back through the hallway.


    Just as we came back into the central part of the store. The old-man standing behind the counter said, ¡°Ahh, a perfect fit, but that¡¯s what you can expect from Finrick¡¯s amour.¡±


    Eyeing the clothes on our bodies, releasing a sigh. The old-man said, ¡°Quad-formed leather, with leyline enchantments, and our personal brand of curing solution. Even if they¡¯re not my best work. They are things of beauty if I say so myself.

 4.8

    Walking down the turning and twisting side-streets of the free city. Making our way along the border of the East hill and west end, towards the south slums.


    Huffing in irritation, Madison said, ¡°I can¡¯t believe that old Man was Finrick. My parents were the ones who told me to go there for armor. They couldn¡¯t stop going on about how he¡¯s the best when it comes to making battle armor. I usually go to Thread-Ball for all my clothes, but it¡¯s more towards the north. Plus I¡¯ve never been in a serious fight, so when my parents were all your normal clothes are not going to cut it. I listened, but that doesn¡¯t mean I have like Finrick and his conceited attitude.¡±


    Cutting off Madison¡¯s rambling, squeezing her shoulder, giving her a smile. Alfred said, ¡°Madison, breathe, I haven¡¯t seen you ramble on like this forever, it¡¯s always been your tell when your nervous you start to ramble. We¡¯ve got this, there is nothing to be worried about.¡±


    I¡¯m surprised, I didn¡¯t pick up on her nervousness before. It¡¯s obvious now that she has been acting strange all day. I don¡¯t know what it was, but even the tension. I didn¡¯t realize I was carrying, disappeared from my shoulders, from listening to Alfred¡¯s speech.


    Returning his smile, Laughing, Madison said. ¡°Thanks, I needed that, I guess I can get nervous too. Just one more stop than we¡¯re going to be headed straight into the action.¡±


    Making another turn, this time back onto one of the busy Main-streets. I could see a giant sign, across the sea of people bustling about. It was by far the gaudiest sign I¡¯ve seen yet, it looked to be about double the size of the whole storefront. It read, in huge bold golden lettering, Grandais Action.


    Coughing, I said, ¡°Is that really the place we need to go? I mean, it¡¯s fine if it is. I just wasn¡¯t expecting that, umm... look.¡±


    Shooting Alfred an awkward look, Madison said, ¡°Yes it is, I haven¡¯t been here myself, but I¡¯ve heard things, from a lot of people across the city. It¡¯s supposed to be a great place to get focusses and the like. But the owner has an absolutely horrid personality. Which, I guess, could be a good thing, maybe?¡±


    Entering Grandais Action, I was shocked again. It¡¯s interior did not match it¡¯s sign at all. Everything was a cold-grey color and almost entirely barren. Besides a circular-counter, in the center of the store. In the center of the counter sat a man with silver-grey hair, wearing wire rimmed glasses and a black apron. Sprawled out beside the grey-haired man, was a row of tools as he tinkered with a silver box that sat in front of him.


    Looking up from his project, tonelessly, the grey-haired ManMan said. ¡°Welcome to Grandias Action, but we are sold out right now. So in less, you have a previous order, you¡¯ll have to look somewhere else.¡±


    Looking shocked, Madison said, ¡°What, how can you be out of everything. Are you really trying to tell me you don¡¯t have anything in stock?¡±


    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Giving Madison an irritated look, sliding his eye across our armor. The grey-haired man said, ¡°Well, as I¡¯m sure you know, there is an infestation in the south slum. That Eden is using to test its possible students. Everyone wants to be prepared.¡±


    Letting out a sigh, at Madison¡¯s drooping shoulders, the grey-haired ManMan said. ¡°But I do happen to have one or two things left, but they¡¯re lackluster.¡±


    Pulling out a wide black case from behind the counter. Flipping it around to face us and opening it. So we could see its contents, pointing to each object. The grey-haired Man said, ¡°This is what I call my lesser explorers bundle; A deep-water-flask, able to hold up to ten gallons of water. Torch-stick, everyone needs a good fire fire-starter, but why can¡¯t it double as a weapon too. As well as a screecher-bell, keep those pests at bay. An air-ring, for when you want to stay dry and who doesn¡¯t like a little extra protection in battle. A dark-marsh orb, able to trap prey. Plus, one of my two favorites, a cloak of intangibility, for when you just need to getaway. I like to save the best for last. A silver-fish, when you don¡¯t want to get your hands dirty.¡±


    Not looking impressed, even a tad skeptical. Madison said, ¡°I take it we have to buy the whole bundle. So how much is it?¡±


    Smiling, the grey-haired Man said, ¡°I love when I get smart customers. The whole bundle comes out to twenty-thousand gold coins.¡±


    Looking at him in shock, Madison said, ¡°What? That¡¯s way too expensive, How can you charge so much?¡±


    His shoulders tensing in offense; the grey-haired Man said, ¡°Hold on there, missy, I¡¯d usually charge more, but I view these as defective products. They just don¡¯t meet my standards, but they are still fine pieces of work.¡±


    Before She could continue to fight the Man, Alfred stepped in. Staring at the Man, he said, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with them for you to call them defective? We need some of these things, but we won¡¯t pay for things we don¡¯t need.¡±


    Looking put off by the sudden switch, the Man said, ¡°Well, the scorch-stick works like it should, and so does the deep-water-flask. But the others have some unique drawbacks. The air-ring is excellent at keeping out water, but its defense in actual combat is terrible. It barely lasts two minutes before breaking. As for the screecher-bell, it¡¯s the only drawback, is the sound can¡¯t be directed. The Dark-marsh orb needs to be recharged after about ten uses, in a solution of ash and mud. The cloak of intangibility has two sides one for projectiles and the other side for physical contact fazing. The silver-fish is just a failed flying-fish, so it does everything a flying-fish but not as good.


    I was standing closer to Madison, so I could literally feel the wave of heat coming off her. Start to build as the ManMan continued listing off his products defects.


    Grumbling loudly, Madison said, ¡°Why you little¡­¡±


    Cutting her off, turning to me. Alfred said, ¡°Madison, stop. Could you take her outside? I¡¯ll handle the rest.¡±


    Shaking my head in agreement, awkwardly, I said. ¡°Sure, come on Madison, how about we go get some fresh air.


    Shooting a death stare at the Man, Madison said, ¡°Fine..¡±

 4.9

    Walking up to the line of guardsmen, bustling around. One Guard with a heavier set of armor on came towards us, carrying a long polearm by his side.


    Slamming his polearm into the ground, He said, ¡°Do you have your tokens from Eden?¡±


    He could obviously tell we were participating in Eden¡¯s trials, but I was worried, I don''t remember anything about a token.


    ¡°Oh, I almost forgot, here they are, this one belongs to him,¡± Madison said, pulling the tokens from her spatial focus, showing them to the guard.


    ¡°Here¡¯s my token,¡± Alfred said, handing his token over to the guard.


    Closely inspecting our tokens, as his hand glowed a brownish-red color, the guard said, ¡°These seem to check out. You can proceed, but be careful those vermin are slippery.¡±


    Turning to me, and handing me a white-stone token, She said. ¡°Sorry I completely forgot to give this to you this morning.¡±


    Passing through the line of guardsmen, into the south slum. The minute we passed through the ward separating the west end from the south slum. Choking, as I felt the air get pulled from my lungs. Panicking from the lack of air, with my vision blurring. Falling to my knees heaving, trying my best to breathe. I could feel a pair of hands on my arm, hearing a voice shouting at me, but it sounded so far away.


    ¡°Kyle, Kyle, are you okay what''s wrong?¡±


    In my frenzy to get air, the edges of my vision started to go black. I felt my talent flare to life, causing my perception to sweep away from my body. Some form of instinct kicked in as I sensed the sparse mana in the air. Pulling with everything I had, I felt the mana swirl through the air, coating me in a film of ambient mana.


    Finally, as my heart stopped hammering in my chest, as I caught my breath. I felt another pair of hands on my other arm. Still a little out of it, as Madison and Alfred helped me up. Standing, working out the tension in my body. I said, ¡°Sorry, I don¡¯t know what happened, I just suddenly couldn¡¯t breathe and I panicked.


    With a frown of worry on her face, Madison said, ¡°It¡¯s fine, are you sure your okay, do you need a minute. Maybe we should head back?¡±


    Shaking my head, smiling, I said, ¡°No, I¡¯m fine. We can get going, I¡¯m good, I promise.¡±


    Finally feeling like I wasn''t dying, taking in the south slums for the first time. Even with the damage from the recent infestation of long-tailed scrapers. I could still tell the south slum from before the infestation, wasn¡¯t in the greatest condition. Timeworn buildings lined the broken streets, varying sized rubble littered the ground. But I think, what caught my attention the most. Was, even with the layer of mana, dampening my sense of mana. I could still feel the ambient mana or lack thereof, just little wisps of mana floating around.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Carefully, constantly checking our surroundings, walking deeper into the south slums. My shoulder-blades began to itch, from the tension. After sweeping several alleys, for vermin. The setting sun casting long shadows against the sandstone walls. Whispering to Madison and Alfred I said, ¡°Maybe we should go deeper? I don¡¯t think they¡¯re this far out.¡±


    Keeping her eyes moving, looking out for possible dangers. Madison said, ¡°I agree, we¡¯ve been at this for a half-an-hour, and nothing to show for it.¡±


    Shadowing, Madison¡¯s every move, Alfred said, ¡°Why not, but I think we should go in a different direction. I don''t like walking in a straight line like this.¡±


    Walking in a zig-zag path through the jagged and torn streets, with dust, and dirt constantly flying up, blocking our vision. Hearing a Screech!! Come from further down the street we were on. I didn¡¯t have time to process the sight of the creature, scurrying towards us. Before Madison¡¯s mana filled my vision, like a giant pyre burning a bright red color. Having only a few seconds of warning before a wave of fire spewed from her hands. Incinerating not only the screaming creature but also everything else on the street in front of us, leaving nothing but black-soot behind.


    Shocked, looking on as steam rose up from the chard stone. Turning to Madison, I said, ¡°That was a bit overkill, for just one scraper, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Laughing Alfred said, ¡°Madison¡­ you probably did more damage to south slum than that long-tailed scraper ever did.¡±


    Embarrassment coloring her face red Madison said, ¡°I Can¡¯t help it, it was the first thing I thought to do.¡±


    A Screech! Louder than the last one. Interrupted our banter, as five more long-tailed scrapers clawed their way onto the street we were on. This time I could clearly see what the creatures looked like; their long-reptilian claws scraping away at the stone, long barbed tails swinging in the air. Showing us their Pointed rows of teeth, as they hissed at us. They looked like someone combined a rat, and a dog together. Just to add a touch more nightmare threw in a rattlesnake.

 4.10

    I felt my heart stop for a second, looking at the leader of the pack of long-tailed scrapers. It was at least twice the size of the other, it also lager scales. Creeping forward; globs of yellow spit dripping from their fangs. as they crept forward, releasing chittering-hissing sounds, testing us. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Alfred pull the silver-fish from his spatial focus. It was the wake-up call I needed, panic wouldn¡¯t serve me here, I needed to be focused and calm.


    Letting out a calming breath, I said, ¡°I can use..¡± But before I can continue, a chorus of shrieks came from behind the pack of vermin. Ten more long-toothed and barbed tailed monsters joined the pack in front of us. As they shoved their bodies into the street. Scraping their scaly hide against one another, causing a grating sound to ring out.


    Returning the silver-fish to his spatial focus. Alfred said, ¡°There are too many for the silver-fish to be useful, in an enclosed space like this. I can definitely stun them maybe more, but a warning, block your ears as best as you can.¡±


    Having no time to ask what he was talking about, as I saw a look of understanding cross Madison¡¯s face. As she covered her ears, backing away from Alfred. Deciding it would be prudent to follow her lead. Covering my ears, I followed her back a few feet from Alfred. I could sense Alfred''s mana start to vibrate. As his mana started vibrating faster and faster, spreading away from his body, in quick-silver like waves. Alfred¡¯s body flashed with silver light matching his mana. I couldn¡¯t see his face, but I could see the leader of the pack of long-tailed scrapers. Pausing it¡¯s jerky gait forwards, tilting its head down submissively.


    Before I could wonder further what Alfred was doing, I felt it. His mana bathed the street around us in a silver glow. Causing the very air to vibrate in sync with his manas pulsating. With the hair on my arms raised up as the only warning, I had. A deep bellow rang out, as a sonic wave flew from Alfred slamming into the pack of vermin. They flew back smashing into one another, scuttling around in a frenzy. As six of the smaller long-tailed scrapers, lay broken on the street. Bleeding from whatever magic Alfred had used. Crawling over their fallen companions, making their way towards us.


    I haven¡¯t done this intentionally before, but I know my talent allows me to manipulate mana. Stepping forward to stand beside Alfred, with my ears still ringing from the blast. Feeling for the mana still in the air, pulling it towards me. Working to compress it down into something more solid. Using my awareness to invasion an orb in front of me. I felt the mana I was drawing on start to sputter, fighting my pull. Going for a different method, I tried copying what Alfred did to create that sonic wave. Feeling the mana in my awareness begin to vibrate, I thought I had succeeded. But the mana just floated around me vibrating, nothing else was happening.


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    As what was left of the pack of long-tailed scrapers, filled with bloodlust. Started racing towards us. Out of options and feeling panicked, I pushed the mana with my awareness towards the incoming pack. Trying to envision what I wanted to happen when I felt the tingle of static burst across my senses. My vision going white, as arcs of lightning tore through the air. Striking the pack of vermin, chunks of charred flesh and twitching limbs strewn everywhere.


    Coming over and poking my shoulder, gesturing at the demolished street around us. Madison said, ¡°You had some nerve to say I was over the top. Then you go and release a lightning storm¡±


    Thinking about something I read in one of the books Mancin lent me. Awkwardly shrugging my shoulders, I said. ¡°That¡¯s not fair it¡¯s not like I had time to practice unstructured magic. Before Eden turned this infestation into a test.¡±


    Outside of the south slum, along its border in the west end. Stood four men in long dark hooded-robes, looking over at the slums as a cacophony of sound came from within.


    One robed man said, ¡°Should we be worried? The test has barely started, and there seems to be a lot more. Intense fighting than there should be at this point.¡±


    Another robed man said, ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯s fine. You know how kids are, trying to prove their worth.¡±


    In a husky-burnt sounding voice, the third man said, ¡°I agree, mana and youth make a volatile mix.¡±


    Pausing looking off into space, Madison said, ¡°Do you guys hear that?¡±


    Tilting my head to the side, focusing on my hearing. The sound of rushing footsteps and metal hitting stone rang out down one of the side streets to our right. Facing towards where I heard the sound coming from. Getting into a better position for battle, Alfred said, ¡°Yes, it sounds like five maybe seven people for of which are wearing heavy armor.¡±


    Looking at him doubtfully, I said, ¡°How can you be so sure?¡±


    But before Alfred could respond, a group of people came rushing out of the side streets. My body tensed at the long-pole arms at their sides, heavy-looking blades poised to attack.

 5.1

    With Madison looking like she was ready to set fire to this new group of people, that had appeared from a side street. Stepping forward to stand in front of Madison, Alfred said, ¡°We are participants of Eden¡¯s trial, my name is Alfred, This is Madison and kyle. Who might you be?¡±


    Looking affronted, one of the men in armor said, ¡°How dare you talk to the princess that way, you peasant.¡±


    Waving her hand, the women in the middle of the group said, ¡°Clyde, there is no need to get hung up on titles here. I might be a princess but I will just be another student in Eden.¡±


    Bowing, the man who spoke before said, ¡°Forgive me, princess, I didn''t think about how you would want me to respond.¡±


    Smiling She said, ¡°It¡¯s okay Clyde, I know you were just being overprotective.¡±


    Now that I was actually looking at the group of people. I couldn''t tell what six of them looked like. Through the heavy-looking armor covering their whole bodies. But I could clearly see the princess, surrounded by her guards in a petal formation. Her figure cut a strong image; long-blonde hair draped over her wide-shoulders, wearing a pristine white robe, that had runes of protection flickering in its folds. I noticed that four out of seven of the group were weird. My talent showed me that they were composed of pure mana, lacking a true physical body.


    Bowing slightly towards us, her gold bracelets jingling. She said, ¡°Please forgive Clyde, he was just doing his duty as my guard. My name is Lukteia, First princess of the Winding tribe.¡±


    Waving her arm at the other man by her side, She said, ¡°You already know Clyde¡¯s name, but this is Samson my other guard. These other four might look like people but they''re just my summons. It¡¯s very nice to meet other potential students of Eden.¡±


    Relaxing her body, and heading towards Alfred. Smiling, Madison said, ¡°It¡¯s fine, everyone''s a little high strung right now anyway. It¡¯s nice to meet you too Lukteia. I''ve always wanted to visit the Wayland, and see how their shamanistic magic in person.¡±


    Joining Alfred, and Madison where they stood, awkwardly, I said. ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you too.¡±


    Waving at her summons, causing them to part. Stepping forward, Lukteia said, ¡°I know we got off on the wrong foot, from Clyde¡¯s rash behavior. But that doesn¡¯t mean we can''t still work together to pass this trial, what are your thoughts?¡±


    Turning to look at Alfred and me, Madison said, ¡°What do you guys think?¡±


    Looking over Lukteia¡¯s group, Alfred said, ¡°It¡¯s not against the rules for more people to work together. Having more people to help would increase our chances of getting a better score.¡±


    I didn¡¯t get any bad vibes from Lukteia, not that I have an opinion on the matter. I said, ¡°I¡¯m fine with whatever you guys decide.¡±


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. Smiling at Lukteia Madison said, ¡°Sure, let''s team-up. How do you feel about heading deeper into the South slum?¡±


    After spending the last thirty-five minutes, slowing going through street after street. I¡¯m surprised that we didn¡¯t run into any groups of people. Even though we didn¡¯t come across any long-tailed scrapers, the slow pace gave us time to smooth out how we worked together.


    Just as we were about to move on to the next street, pausing Madison said, ¡°We are getting close to the south crux. If what I heard is correct is where the nest of vermin is located. So we should be prepared to face them.¡±


    Lukteia sent two of her summons in front of us, as we entered a wide-circular area. Drawing up short; as we spotted four long-tailed scrapers, with grey-patches of fur covering their body. They looked way different from the vermin before, with thinner bodies. Screeching loudly as they spotted us, at least twenty scaled covered long-tailed scrapers poured out from dirt mounds around the area, chattering at the two grey vermin. Looking at us with their beady yellow eyes, they rushed at us.


    Some time while I was taking in the rest of the swarm of vermin. A third grey scraper had snuck up beside us. As it jumped heading right towards Lukteia, screeching claws outstretched towards her. Lukteia swung her arm at the grey scraper, causing it to smash back into the ground. Broken body bleeding out, twitching as the last bit of life left its corpse.


    Looking disgusted, spitting, Lukteia said, ¡°What a weak little rat.¡±


    Watching on, as Lukteia¡¯s summons hit the oncoming swarm first, blades flashing cutting into the scaly hides of the long-tailed scrapers. Dispatching body after body, Clyde and Samson dove headfirst into the turbulent battle in front of us. With the swarm of scaled-scrapers dwindling to a sparse few. The four grey-furred scrapers in the back released another round of screeches. After finishing off the last of the scaled scraper, Clyde and Samson retreated back to Lukteia¡¯s side. The only signs they had been in battle, their heavy breathing and slight shaking of their hands.


    Grumbles and dust rising in the air, coming from the mounds strewn across the south crux.


    Stepping forward, pulling out two silver objects from his spatial focus. Alfred said, ¡°We¡¯ll take the next wave.¡±


    As I felt Madison start to release small waves of red mana. Walking to Alfred¡¯s side, smiling, Lukteia said, ¡°It¡¯s fine we¡¯ll join you; I haven¡¯t even gotten warmed up yet, while my summons can take a beating. I¡¯m sure Clyde and Samson will be fine after a little rest to clear their minds and refocus themselves. But thank you for the offer.¡±

 5.2

    Hundreds of scrapers burst out of the mounds; chitering and screeching rang out through the air, grey-furred and scaled scrapers viscously crawling over one another. A whistling flash of silver flickered through the oncoming swarm of scraper, piercing body after body. From Alfred deft hand at controlling the silver-fish. Lukteia¡¯s summons surrounded us, their pole-arms shining with a gold light. Creating a circular formation, keeping the scrapers from overwhelming us. With Clyde and Samson darting in and out of our protective cover, picking off scrapers one by one. Where the duo were graceful in their attack, Lukteia was like an unstoppable force tearing through scrapers like they were paper.


    As Madison flung well-controlled fireballs left and right, causing bursts of flame to explode a few feet from our group. I felt useless, not only was the ambient mana sparse and chaotic, but i couldn''t guarantee that I could control the outcome of unstructured casting. Only having two spell matrixes at my disposal, that I didn''t want to use so early in the battle. I didn¡¯t really see a choice in the matter, I couldn''t just stand around doing nothing. Pulling out the dark marsh orb from my spatial focus, rolling it in my palm. I began to reach inside myself with my perception, touching the mass-illusion spell matrix.


    As my awareness riding on the wave of mana released from my spell matrix. Passed from my body rolling out across the south crux. It was easy to tell the difference between the Variety in the human presence in my perception, and that of the scrapers that felt like one organism. Blanketing the swarm of scrapers, trying to influence their minds with my spell matrix. I felt something try and push back at my illusion, but I could still tell that my spell matrix was working because the scrapers had started to slow down.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    With the sound of blades against scale and blood hitting stone. Sweating, as he stepped back into the Summons formation. Alfred said, ¡°We can¡¯t keep going like this, they are able to come at us from all sides. I don¡¯t know how long your summons can keep up this formation? We should fall back to the street and use the walls for cover.¡±


    Stepping into the formation, breathing heavily. Lukteia said, ¡°With as many vermin that are surrounding us I''m not sure how long it can hold.


    Injecting mana into the orb in my hands, working on keeping the swarm around us slowed down. I said, ¡°I can stall them, but im stretched a little thin between my spell matrix and using the orb. I don¡¯t think ill be able to move, I¡¯ll need someone to drag me.¡±


    Reaching for my sides, Clyde and Samson said, ¡°Do your thing, we¡¯ve got you.¡±


    This is embarrassing getting lugged around like a sack of potatoes. Trying to keep the embarrassment from my face, I said, ¡°Thanks.¡± Focusing back on my task, I activate the dark marsh orb, sending a thick sticky web of marsh water across the scrapers nearest us.


    Pulling a flask from his spatial focus, slamming it on the ground causing a cloud of black smoke to rise into the air blocking us from view. Alfred said, it was worth it to get one of these potions for myself too. Lets go.


    Falling back to the street we took a minute to regroup, handing out Mana potions, Madison said, ¡°Here take these we can¡¯t have one of us running out of mana.


    Still lost in my head, paying attention to how the swarm of scrapers and my spell matrix were interacting. But something about the way my awareness interacted with my spell matrix caused my perception to be amplified. I noticed that whatever was causing the pushing sensation I felt was coming from deep underground, way outside the range I could effect with my spell matrix.

 5.3

    Having my spell matrix active for so long was beginning to put a strain on my awareness, like someone slamming bricks into my head.


    With sweat dripping down my brow, gritting my teeth. I said, ¡°I don''t know how much longer I can keep this up for. Something or maybe someone is fighting my manipulation.¡±


    Furrowing her forehead, Madison said, ¡°Kyle, why didn''t you say something sooner! Drop your spell before you really hurt yourself.


    Pushing myself off the wall, I said, ¡°It''s not that bad, just a little straining is all.¡±


    Shooting me a stern look, She said, ¡°I wasn''t asking you, I was telling you to drop your spell, now!¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, no need to yell, I''ll stop now,¡± I said, raising my hands in surrender.


    Disconnecting from my spell matrix, my stomach flipped with nausea as my awareness snapped back to me like an elastic band. Grounding, and ridding myself of the excess energy from the shifted perception, and fighting that foreign awareness. Coming back to my senses, as I noticed the Flickering formation around us, and the massive wall of scraper bodies trying to tear their way through it.


    Turing to Madison, Alfred said, ¡°Hey, do you think you can torch some of these scrapers to give us some breathing room? I don¡¯t think this formation can take any more of this stress.¡±


    Looking at the shifting wall of scraper bodies. Madison said, ¡°Yeah, I think I can do that.¡±


    Madison walked towards the edge of the formation, facing the scrapers. Her mana started to boil releasing waves of scorching heat. Causing the temperature of the air surrounding us to rise. Placing her hands flush against the barrier protecting us. The heat that her boiling mana gave off, spiked. Waves started to ripple off her body, causing the very air to distort. With a whoosh of displaced air, a giant pillar of fire spewed from her hands. The screeching of dying scrapers rang out, as the heat started to drop and the flames flickered out.


    Bending over, hands on her knees, and breathing deeply, Madison said, ¡°Okay.. that was¡­ a lot harder than I thought it would be.¡±


    Looking over at Lukteia, Clyde, and Samson, frozen in shock. It dawned on me that what Madison just did wasn''t considered normal.


    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.Rushing to Madison¡¯s side, holding her shoulder. Smiling, Alfred said, ¡°Come over here and take a break, you did great. We can handle the rest of them till you feel up to more fighting.¡±


    Once Madison got settled, the rest of the group got to work picking off one Scraper after next. With the stench of charred rat wafting through the air, Zipping in, and out of the formation, back and forth through the scrapers that weren¡¯t incinerated from Madison fire. Now I''m back to feeling useless, down to only one spell matrix, and still not comfortable using unstructured casting. I sent forth my perception using my talent, to keep track of anything weird. That could be going on around us, better a lookout than doing nothing.


    As my vision went auratic with colors from the chaotic mana floating around. Mostly dominated by traces of the scrapers mana, bright red patches that matched Madison¡¯s mana. But there were a few splotches of silver and several golden flecks that were floating around, I assume they came from Alfred and Lukteia¡¯s summons. Further away from us I caught flashes of varying shades of green, flashing brightly through the scrapers.


    As Alfred stepped back into the formation, I said, ¡°I think there might be another group fighting scrapers, about a quarter of the way through the south crux.¡±


    Pausing with a thoughtful look on his face Alfred said, ¡°I think we should head towards them, even though we are almost done with this wave of scrapers. I don''t think we should count on there not being another one coming our way. Madison do you think you can move now?¡±


    As she got up, dusting herself off. Madison said, ¡°I''ve rested enough, I¡¯m good to go whenever you guys are ready.¡±


    Joining us, and shaking her head in agreement. Lukteia said, ¡°I agree, it would be best to have more people.¡±


    ¡°Well let''s get going then,¡± Alfred said, heading towards the opening to the south crux.


    Walking in a line instead of a circular formation, Alfred leading us through the hoard of scrapers. With the glowing Shriek bell rotating between his palms. Sending blades of silver at every scraper that crossed our path. Blades of light cutting into their scaled bodies, leaving them easy prey for the other to finish off.


    While Alfred and the others were dealing with the scrapers. I took in our surroundings, the south crux was almost unrecognizable from what it used to look like. Over an hour of fighting and destruction; left every stone scratched, scorched and sword marks everywhere. Black soot floated through the air as we drew closer to where the other group was fighting.

 5.4

    Coming into view of the unknown party; I noticed that the group consisted of five people creepily identical in looks, and built tall and lithe. Long rich-brown hair which framed their green toned skin. The armor they were wearing was also identical, which if i wasn¡¯t mistaken it was made from some type of wood. As we drew closer, whatever they were doing or using to fight the scrapers. Was leaving giant clouds of green-mist floating through the air.


    Turning and looking at us, their eyes glowing with an emerald fire. In perfect unison they said, ¡°We are the Nein, who might you be.¡±


    What''s a Nein, peaking how they look and how they''ve acted so far. I''m going to go out on a limb and say not completely human, maybe not human at all.


    As he continued to fling silver blades at incoming scrapers, Alfred said, ¡°We are another group of participants, in Eden¡¯s trials. I can only speak for my group, my name is Alfred Fowntain, these are my friends Madison Hayward, and Kyle Greenar.¡±


    The Nein stared at Alfred, stone-faced they said, ¡°Why is a silver tongue talking to the Nein?¡±


    His face went all weird, like someone had spit on him. Obviously trying to compose himself, Alfred said, ¡°You are mistaken i am not a silver tongue, but I can understand why you would think so.¡±


    Turning their heads sideways in unison the Nein said, ¡°But the Nein are never wrong.¡±


    Smiling at the Nein, Alfred said, ¡°Well your wrong about this, I have a talent that makes me seem similar to the silver tongues, but i''m not one.¡±


    Shaking their heads in agreement the Nein said, ¡°We understand, talents are an exception to our knowledge.¡±


    While the Nein and Alfred were talking, leaning towards Samson and Clyde, Lukteia said, ¡°So it''s true, Eden has opened its doors to halflings, and their ilk.¡±


    Walking to Alfred¡¯s side, Lukteia said, ¡°I am princess Lukteia of the winding tribe from the Wayland, and these are my guards Clyde, and Samson.¡±


    Locking their glowing eyes on Lukteia the Nein said, ¡°Hmm, the Wayland has no trees.¡±


    Looking back at Alfred, they said, ¡°We understand, you would like us to join you in taking care of these Long-tailed scrapers,Yes.¡±


    What did I miss something, maybe they can read minds.


    Smiling, Alfred said, ¡°Yes we would like you to join us. I can take that as your answer than.¡±This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    The giant green orb circling them paused, and expanded out. Pushing the scapers around us, screeching, and chittering away. As their barrier slid over Luckteia¡¯s summons formation. I saw the green mana mingle with the gold mana, giving off a feeling of friction to my senses. Now that i wasn¡¯t so worried about Lukteia¡¯s formation. I started paying more attention to the scrapers in general. Their numbers had dwindled from the hundreds down to a bare fifty.


    Looking over the south crux, Nein said, ¡°There are only a few left, and we should make quick work of them.¡±


    Relief written on his face, Alfred said, ¡°While there are not that many left we should still be careful.¡±


    Shaking their heads in agreement, the Nein said, ¡°Yes, that would be prudent.¡±


    Spreading out at the opening of the street, facing the scrapers. Everyone began attacking, picking off the scrapers, one by one, and sometimes several at once. The black marsh orb vibrated in my hands, it''s color fading even more as I used it to slow down the grey furred scrapers. Lukteia didn''t go out and attack the scrapers this time, commanding her summons to attack in her place. Now that she didn''t have to use them to protect us. Pillars of fire flared up, claiming the life of a large number of scrapers.


    Putting his hand on Madison''s shoulder, shooting her a worried smile. Alfred said, ¡°You are you''re spreading yourself to thin. I can tell your fire is getting weaker go ahead and take a break.¡±


    Letting her hands fall to her sides, looking at him in confusion. Madison said, ¡°Okay, that sounds good, I feel so tired.¡±


    As she went and leaned against the brick wall letting her head fall on her knees. The Nein said, ¡°The fire one burns to bright, but she has such, hmm¡­ power.¡±


    Spending the next thirty minutes sweeping through the last of the scrapers. Even though we were working together, adding another group made things tense. To many different personalities. The Nein flung a tandral of green mana, arcing through the air, slaying the last of the Scrapers. Everyone was tired, and dirty, covered in sweat and blood. With no more scrapers coming from the ground I let out a breathe in relief.


    Without a warning, I felt my connection with the sparse ambient mana snap. Causing my perception to slam back into my body, with the force of a sledgehammer. Pain racked not just my mind, but also my body. As my vision blurred; the ground began to shake, and Huge cracks spread from the scraper mounds, with giant billows of dust shooting into the sky, a great howl came from below the south crux.

 5.5

    The hair on my arms stood up on end, something under the ground was hungry, and very angry.


    With the ground starting to shift even more, stones buckling falling into the growing cracks. Causing more plumes of smoke to rise into the air. Looking at each other in terror as a vicious bloodlust radiated from the ground.


    Clenching his fists to stop them from shaking. Alfred said, ¡°We should temporally retreat until we can figure out what''s coming up from below south crux.¡±


    Returning her summons to her side, Lukteia said, ¡°I agree, this feeling is unpleasant to say the least. Clyde, Samson we are retreating.¡±


    Bowing, Clyde and Samson said, ¡°Yes, princess.¡±


    Releasing i quite humm, the Nein said, ¡°We agree as well, we can not tell what''s down there. Being further away when it comes up would be best.¡±


    Exiting the south crux, and making our way through the streets of the south slums. Although we weren¡¯t going very fast, everyone was tired, and drained from the long fight. We made it past several streets before a vibration shook the ground under us. The building on either side of us, lite up with small gold runes as cracks spread up from the ground.


    Worse for the wear, and mana chaoticly flaring, heat rolling off her worn body. Madison said, ¡°This is too much! I want to finish this trial already.¡±


    Shooting her a worried look, Going over, giving her shoulder a pat. Smiling, Alfred said, ¡°Maddy its okay, just calm down, and we¡¯ll be done with trial shortly.¡±


    With huge chunks of stone flying through the air, a giant figure ascended from under the south slums; Covered in thick jagged scales, and thick long limbs. With an even longer tail flipping, curling in the air offensively. It¡¯s giant gold eyes glowing with wrath, it let out a bellow showing off it¡¯s many rows of teeth, releasing putrid clouds of purple smoke.


    Choking from the nauseous smell that came from behind us, turning to look to see what had happened. Shocked, stuttering, I said, ¡°What is that?¡±


    Looking just as shaken as I felt, in unison the Nein said, ¡°That is a rarity, a variant Long-tailed scraper queen.¡±


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. With eyebrows scrunched in worry, Alfred said, ¡°I did research about long-tailed scrapers the minute I found out about the trial. I expected a queen to be in the nest, but there hasn''t ever been a queen of this size, at least recorded.¡±


    I had no clue what a Long-tailed scraper queen even was in the first place let alone the rarity of a variant species. But a more important question was how come no one noticed it, and how long has it been here hiding here.


    They Nein began to vibrate, their bodies releasing small hissing sounds. The Nein said, ¡°We should move quicker. Our instincts.. we can¡¯t explain¡­!


    As the giant scraper started sniffing the air, It locked its glowing eyes on us. Shaking from the intensity of its gaze, I said, ¡°Yeah, we should probably speed up a bit, I''m pretty sure it¡¯s looking at us, and it''s not happy. Shifting its body forwards, it screamed, releasing a wave of putrid smoke across the south slums. My eyes burned, blurring from tears. I felt light headed, and my chest felt tight, I think the smog the queen scraper was releasing was poisonous.


    As a green wave of mana was released by the Nein I felt the burning in my eyes lessen, and my head clear.


    Smiling in unison, the Nein said, ¡°The queen scraper is releasing a potent poison, which happens to be beneficial to the Nein. But it is most likely harmful to other forms of life.¡±


    Feeling the air, easily enter my lungs. I said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Their glowing emerald eyes, flashed with mirth. In unison the Nein said, ¡°As we said before it is beneficial to the Nein, so it makes sense to take in more of the poison. But you are welcome.¡±


    Along the border of the south slums , where the three robed men stood. A loud whistling noise, and a bright red glow came from the orb rotating between them.


    Looking at the south slums, The robed man on the left said, ¡°That''s not good, how could we have missed a creature that can emit such, bloodlust.¡±


    Sniffing the air, flicking his tongue as if he was trying to get a better taste of something. The robed man on the right said, ¡°Procter, do you want me to go handle it, whatever is releasing that putrid smog is way out of the league of the children.¡±


    As the robed man in the middle, the other men called proctor. Placed his hand on the vibrating orb, his eyes flashed a deep red color. He said, ¡°No, we will all go, that is a never before seen variant queen, of the Long-tailed species. It''s better not to take chances with variants, I want no mistakes.¡±

 5.6

    As we entered one of the bigger streets of the south slums; there were about thirty people bunched together in groups, all staring at the monstrous scraper in the south crux. I noticed, they were prepared to fight, surrounded by small bundles of runes that looked like parts of a formation. But they looked just as worn out, and tired as we did.


    Two men dressed in chunky metal armor stepping towards us, they said, ¡°Who are you, and what happened in the south crux?¡±


    Stepping forward to meet the two armored men, Alfred said, ¡°We are a mixed group of trial participants, and the south crux is done for, a variant scraper queen was hidden there.¡±


    With shouts of shock, coming from the group behind them, the man standing to the left said, ¡°How could that be, I mean how could Eden miss a scraper queen.¡±


    Looking slightly irritated, Alfred said, ¡°It¡¯s not just a scraper queen, it¡¯s a variant.¡±


    As the two groups were talking, cracks began to appear in the ground around them. With little warning, huge holes opened up, with swarms of scrapers flowing from them. Screeches rang out as spells, mana, and weapons of all sorts. Flashed out, biting into the bodies of the scrapers, but more scrapers filled the spots of their dead kin, pushing us into a circle, rounding us up.


    A Woman dressed in a deep-blue robe Said, ¡°Mikeal, we can¡¯t keep doing this, there is no order everyone is fighting their own battle. While the scrapers are working as one unit, I can''t believe I''m saying this but we need teamwork.¡±


    The tall man to her right, stepping back from swing his morning-star, a crushed scraper body falling to the ground. He Said, ¡°Selien, I take it you want me to do something about that then?¡±


    Flinging her glowing hands towards the scrapers to her right, long spears of ice piercing their bodies nailing them to the ground. Selien said, ¡°Yes, just give everyone some breathing room, and then we can try to get everybody on the same page.¡±


    Not looking happy about what she said, Mikeal said, ¡°Fine, but I could have kept going.¡±


    Swinging his morning-star around in a circle causing it to vibrate, and release a blinding white light. As a dome of mana flew from Mikeal¡¯s body, pushing the swarm of scrapers away from the mess of people fighting them. A giant wave of mana rolled through the south slums; hitting the wards along its borders, causing sparks to fly through the air, and shockwaves making the ground ripple.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Cursing, righting themselves from the wave of toxic mana, continuing on their way. The two magi accompanying the proctor began to take this more seriously. Flying towards the south crux with the other two men in toe, their robes whistling in the wind, the proctor began to strategize.


    Looking over the whole south slums, Proctor said, ¡°Mential, you will be in charge of making sure that vile smog doesn''t leave the crux. Yerian, you will aid me in taking this beast down, I want you to keep it from moving as best you can.¡±


    In unison with tones of reverence, the duo said, ¡°Understood, Procter.¡±


    The robed man on the right, whose name was Yerian. Flying down, landing in the south crux as he began to glow, surrounded by a light-blue aura of mana. Thick chains of ice sprung up from the ground. Slicing through the queen scrapers body, binding her in place.


    Mential, with his flapping robes picking up speed as grey-threads of mana flew from his body; Flying through the air, the grey threads began to bob, and weave through the cloudy-purple smog, stopping the cloud from spreading.


    The Proctor with his palms glowing began to chant in a foreign dialect. Causing a massive field of mana to descend on the south crux. Screeching, crying out in pain, and fear the queen scraper began to struggle against Yetrian¡¯s ice chains; chunks of frozen scales falling off its body, as droplets of violet blood dripped down the chains causing them to steam.


    Falling short of mana, everyone in the group was bone-weary, tired from the constant struggle.


    With my eyes burning from the sweat dripping into them. Head pounding from exhaustion, I slashed out at one more Violet scraper, as it flew towards me; my breath hitched as I felt the ambient mana around me start to thin even more, from overuse. Barely squeezing enough together for a small blade, that just pushed the violet scraper sideways. A flash of bright red flame and the violet scrapers burn corpse fell to the ground. Falling to my hands, and knees my whole body shaking from fear, at how close to death I just came.


    Turning my head to find Madison behind me, I said, ¡°Thank.. You.. for the rescue!¡±


    Looking at me, worry plainly written on her face, Madison said, ¡°No problem, but take a break you look terrible.

 5.7

    As the sparks flew from the clash of the mana wave, and the barrier separating the south slums from the rest of the free city. Most wouldn¡¯t be able to tell anything happened due to the multi-layered formation of the barrier, unless under a certain set of circumstances. One man enjoying dinner with his family just so happened to meet the criteria.


    A middle-aged brunette in a weary tone said, ¡°Dear what''s wrong, why aren¡¯t you eating your meal?¡±


    Being broken from his trance, smiling the Man said, ¡°Nothing marge, nothing at all just lost in my head.¡±


    Along the border of the south slums, the free cities guardsmen bustling about. One such guardsman, wearing a silver badge that marked him as a lieutenant. Running to his superior, saluting the guardsman said, ¡°Sir, the oracle division wanted me to tell you that we should prepare for a possible barrier breach.¡±


    Captain of the west-guard, looking at the lieutenant in disbelief. The Captain said, ¡°How, Eden sent a third-tier magus as proctor along with two, second-tier magi as assistance. There shouldn¡¯t be anything in the slums that could cause them a problem. Contact the oracle division again double-check, and see if they can get more information on what the source of the problem is.¡±


    Saluting again, the lieutenant said, ¡°I¡¯ll get right on it Sir.¡± Before turning, running off to follow the captain''s orders.


    The scraper queen let out a loud hiss, struggling harder to free herself. The sound of rattling ice-chains rang out across the south crux. Violent waves of mana rolled from the scraper queens body. Accompanied by the sound of breaking glass, one of the ice chains snapped. As the broken links fell to the ground. Letting out a gasp; quickly swiping his fingers through the air, the broken chain began to glow an even darker hue of blue, causing it to reform at a lightning speed. Yerian said, ¡°My Tundric ice-chains aren¡¯t that easy to destroy.¡±


    Screeching even louder, the scraper queen began to glow with a violet hue, her body bulging with thick-corded veins, wiggling. The pressure the queen released increased greatly putting more pressure on Yerian. If anyone had been there and had their mana sight activated. They would see the scraper queens mana, devouring the blank spaces in between the sparse ambient mana. The scraper queen went silent for just one second, going completely still, except the huge veins wiggling beneath her scales.


    You don¡¯t become a third-tier Magus without having a keen sense of danger. Speeding up his chanting, the Proctor pulled out a large scroll from his spatial focus. While simultaneously activating a spell matrix called Thought-send.


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.With just a flicker of the color of his eyes giving away a change in the proctor. Yerian and Mential heard the proctor¡¯s voice in their heads. In a serious tone, the Proctor said, ¡°Stop what you''re doing, and start sending your mana to me immediately.¡±


    Looking at each other in confusion, Mential stopped his manipulation of the wind, diverting his mana to the Proctor. Yerian was tied deeper in His Tundric ice-chains, causing him to take longer to divert his mana. But once he released his connection with the tundric ice chains, they evaporated almost instantly, sending his mana to the proctor.


    Looking worried about what could cause the proctor to change his plans. Yerian said, ¡°What do you think is going on?¡±


    Deciding it would be best to head to the ground, instead of wasting his mana on flight. Landing beside Yerian, Mantial said, ¡°I don¡¯t know but whatever it is it can''t be good.¡±


    Without Mantial keeping the smog from the scraper queen in check. causing it to spread quickly throughout the south slums, blanketing everything in putrid violet-clouds. Where the groups of trial participants were fighting the scaled scrapers. Adding another hurdle they had to fight against was the poisonous fog.


    Stepping forward, in unison the Nein said, ¡°We can handle the smog, but we will need protection from the scrapers if we are to purify so much at once.¡±


    Coughing, and wheezing, multiple people said, ¡°Just... do it... We will cover for you.¡±


    Sitting in a circle back to back the Nein began to glow a deep emerald color, sending waves of matching mana. Cascading through the battlefield, purifying the toxic smog from the air. While the other trial participants began to pick off scraper after scraper. Just when they finally had a working rhythm down. A violent tremor shook the ground under their feet causing a few trial takers to stumble.


    One trial taker with long jet-black said, ¡°Now what.¡±


    The scraper queens body Began to show signs of breaking apart; jagged cracks glowing with violet light spreading over her scales, as a high pitched vibrational whine shook the very air around the twisted form of the scraper queen. Just as the Proctor finished casting his spell, the scraper queens body began to expand at an even faster pace. The cracks in her scales grew wider, in the core of her being a violet ball of violent fire raged. As the last of the sinews holding the queen''s body together broke apart, releasing a fiery explosion of violet energy. Sweeping outwards, slamming into the proctor¡¯s mana field.


    Now freed from chanting, with a grunt from the force of the collision of the two opposing energies. The proctor said, ¡°We have to hold this down, we are too close to the border. If this explosion hits the barrier, the whole thing might break, and spread this mess into the rest of the free city.

 5.8

    The violent mass of rithing mana battred at the field, the proctor had cast. Powerful waves rolled through the south crux, causing loose chunks of stone to fly around. With his robes being blown back by the force of the collision.


    Sparing a glance for Yerian, and Mentia the proctor said, ¡°I don¡¯t know how much longer the faraday cage can last. I didn''t expect the explosive force to be so strong, one of you should contact the academy, tell them we need either two more third tier magi, or one fourth tier magus.¡±


    Streams of mana flowing through the air, arcing from the three Magi to the faraday cage, holding the ever growing mass mana within.


    Sweat dripping down his brow from over exertion, yerian said, ¡°Mential, i¡¯ll help hold the field while you contact the academy.¡±


    Cutting off his mana flowing through the connection to the faraday cage, Mential Said, ¡°Okay, but who should I ask for?¡±


    Without giving it a second thought Yerian said, ¡°Ask for Henrick, he should be able to get the people we need.¡±


    Hands shaking from exhaustion, pulling an orb from his spatial focus, and injecting his mana into it. Mential said, ¡°Connect me to Henrick.¡± As Mentrial¡¯s mana coursed through the viewing orb. Grey static filled its depth.


    A nasaly voice said, ¡°Henrick, who? I¡¯m sorry sir i¡¯m going to need your identification number.¡±


    Before Mential could start yelling at the person at the other end of the viewing orb. A high pitched whine came from the giant orb of mana floating in the south crux. The glowing lights of the violent mana within it flared, as a crack began to spread up the side of the faraday cage. Pushing more of his mana into the faraday cage, trying to seal up the crack caused by the growing force of the volatile mana. The proctor said, ¡°Their not going to make it in time. I''m going to release my hold on the top of the faraday cage, to get rid of the built up pressure. Prepare yourselves as best you can.¡±


    Flipping his hands in a circular motion, releasing a short chant. The top of the faraday cage flashed, thin threads of mana released opening a gap. But before it could open all the way, the volatile mana burst through the small opening, shattering the top of the glasslike orb. As the giant pillar of purple mana, shot into the sky dispersing the clouds overhead. The bottom of the faraday cage shattered from the polarizing force of the volatile beam of mana. Hidden within the wave of force that spread from the explosion, was a wave of resentment, spreading throughout the south slums.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    Luckily most of the mana was focused upwards, so the resentment lacked a source of power to cause any harm, except to those sensitive to such energies. Out of the hundreds of people in the radius of the projected resentment only two had such ability.


    The scrapers surrounding the groups of trial participants, began to screech, crying out in agony. Small cracks spread over their bodies, as they fell to the ground, writhing. The trail froze in shock from the scene, only a few of them had time to throw up barriers. Before the writhing scrapers writhing burst, Exploding into flames, throwing violet-fiery mucus across their surroundings. Screams of pain rang out from almost half of the trial takers, who were closer to the scrapers.


    I was beyond shocked by what just happened, what had caused the scrapers to explode. Looking at all the trial participants, who were covered in patches of flickering globules of fiery mucus. Almost every trial taker who wasn¡¯t injured, thanks to their distance from the scrapers, or had the intuition to put shield. Began to pull out healing potions, salvs of varying colors. As I reached for the person nearest me, pulling a healing potion from my spatial focus.


    Without any warning, I tipped over hitting the dusty-stone under my feet, face first. My head felt like something or maybe someone was trying to shove a red-hot iron poker into it. I felt my body convulse as i heard the sounds of screeching, and scratching. My heart heaved, from what felt like the force of a sledgehammer hit my mind. Choking, something in my mind snapped, searing pain flashed through my mind, than an icy coolness replaced it, my vision went black.


    Outside the border separating the south slum from the rest of the free city. Marge Heastry saw her husband freeze, spoon midway to his mouth. Keeling over, hitting the ground spoon flying from his grasp. His body convulsing, flailing about, as white foam seeped from his mouth, eyes bloodshot from pain.


    Letting out a scream, rushing to his side Marge said, ¡°Dear! What''s wrong, wake up! Dillion!¡±


    After several minutes of constant shaking, his body stilled. Marge leaning over him, weeping, she failed to notice the change in his eyes. As they reflected a violet light, before returning to their normal-brown color.

 5.9

    As the pillar of violet mana winked out of existence, after depleting its source of mana. The rest of the faraday cage fell in on itself, disappearing. The south crux was left ruined by the blast; nothing but a giant hole, surrounded by melting stone, releasing a vaporous smoke as it cooled.


    Landing by the lip of the giant crater, almost sounding like he was talking to himself, the proctor said, ¡°This was a complete disaster, I''m going to have to get ahold of the headmaster immediately.¡±


    In the background as the proctor talked to himself, a staticky-nasally voice said, ¡°What was that Sir are you still there?¡±


    Breaking away from whatever he was thinking about. Turning, walking towards Mential, and Yerian. Pulling out two small porcelain bottles, sticking his arms out towards his Assistants.


    The proctor said, ¡°Take these, there higher end mana potions. They should get you both up, and running, so you can start cleaning this mess up. Mantial hand me the orb, please.¡±


    Palms sweating from stress, handing the viewing orb to the proctor. Mantial said, ¡°Here you go, sir.¡±


    Looking at Mantial, obviously shaking from nerves. Releasing a sigh, the proctor said, ¡°Mantial, don''t forget the potion. After you''ve finished it, go take care of the miasma.¡±


    As the proctor conversed with Mantial, one could still hear a nasty voice in the background, ¡°Hello is anyone there? Hello!¡±


    Handing the other potion to Yerian the proctor said, ¡°Take this then go help the trial participants. If they''re okay go help Mantial clean up the miasma.¡±


    Slightly bowing, his dusty robes sweeping across the ground. Yerian said, ¡°Of course proctor, I¡¯ll get right on it.¡±


    As Mantial and Yerian opened the potion bottles, the heady smell of highly purified herbs wafted through the air. Tipping the bottles back, almost simultaneously, enjoying the cool, and refreshing feeling as the potion refilled their mana reserves.


    After just a few minutes the duo was brimming with mana, looking steadier on their feet. Bowing towards the proctor; turning, and flying off in separate directions, following the orders of the proctor.


    After watching his Assistants take to their tasks. Looking at the viewing orb in his hand, with a frown the proctor said, ¡°Silence, My name is Allen Wheelrite, captain of the grey hand. You will tell me your name, and then you will connect me to the Headmaster! Do you understand?¡±


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. A squeak came from the other side of the viewing orb, coughing the voice said, ¡°Ah yes, yes, my name is Humphry Dullard, a first-tier Magus. Sir, Captain of the grey hand, I¡¯m sorry for not getting your connection through earlier. Please don¡¯t, never mind I¡¯ll send you through now.¡±


    Smirking, Allen said, ¡°Good, see that you do.¡±


    As those in the group of trial taker that weren¡¯t burned. Went about healing those that got burned by the exploding scrapers. A light flickered in the distance, right before a robed figure came into view. A few of the trial participants, that were tasked with watching the group''s surroundings for danger, noticing the figure right away.


    Turning to the rest of the group Shouting they said, ¡°We have a practitioner, their coming in fast!¡±


    Several of the group members that were applying healing potions, paused in their work. Looking up inspecting the incoming practitioner. As the figure descended on the group; pulling back his hood showing a fair face, with blonde shoulder-length hair shifting in the wind. Smiling Yerian said, ¡°Hello trial participants, I am Yerian assistant to the proctor of Edens trial. I can see some of you are suffering from burns. Someone give me an overview of what you all have been through. while I see to those that are injured if there is anyone else that needs help feel free to point them out.¡±


    One of the trial participants following behind Yerian, as he went from one injured person to another. Healing each as he went; waves of mana flowing over the victims. Causing their burns to heal at a rate visible to the naked eye.


    The short trial taker With a mousy nose, big eyes semi-hidden by dusty brown hair. Stuttering he said, ¡°Umm¡­ Sir, my name is Henry Gregson. I don¡¯t know exactly what you want to know, but well.. at least my group were fighting scrapers. When a bigger wave of them overwhelmed us, falling back trying to get space. We ran into most of the other groups here, who were also fighting a large swarm of scrapers. I don¡¯t know how long it took us to clear them out, but we finally managed it with a lot of work.¡±


    After healing another person, Yerian said, ¡°Hmm interesting, how did they get these burns than?¡±


    Still looking nervous Henry said, ¡°Well.. after the major quakes started, another group of trial takers showed up. Shortly after that, an even bigger swarm of scrapers came.¡±


    Interrupting Henry, Yerian said, ¡°I don¡¯t need every detail, just an overview, I''m sure others will want to question you all, once we get this mess sorted.¡±


    Shocked stuttering Henry said, ¡°Oh, umm... Ok, then a horrible poisonous fog swept through. The Nein saved us from that, by purifying the air. When something caused all the scrapers to explode, spewing a fiery mucus.¡±

 5.10

    Bowing at the orb Allen said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for bothering you headmaster, but there was an incident in the south slums.¡± As a wave of mana came from the viewing orb, a mirror sized portal opened up around it. On its surface; an image of an old man with short-grey hair, sat in a dark oak chair.


    In a dry-raspy voice, filled with age, the Headmaster said, ¡°What, what could have possibly gone wrong, Allen? Hmm, is that where that mana fluctuation came from.¡±


    Bowing even deeper before the floating orb, Allen said, ¡°There was a variant-scraper queen in the nest, in the south crux. It had the ability to release a toxic miasma. From what I''ve heard from Yerian, some of the trial participants have been hurt by exploding scrapers. I have Mential cleaning up the leftover miasma, but what would you like me to do about the participants?¡±


    His thick grey-eyebrows twitching in irritation the Headmaster said, ¡°I take it, from what you''ve told me, you handled the variant queen. As for the trial participants, We¡¯ll take them all. After you get them healed of course. While your doing that I''ll contact the free city council.¡±


    Raising his head in shock, Allen said, ¡°What, all of them, but we¡¯ve never taken so many students at once.¡±


    As a tired sigh escaped his lips, the headmaster said, ¡°Just bring all of them up, for now. I¡¯ll handle the rest once you get here.¡±


    Bowing again, Allen said, ¡°Yes headmaster.¡±


    The mana fluctuations disappeared from the viewing orb, shattering as it fell to the ground.


    Standing up; with small specks of green mana falling from his fingers, leftover from healing the last trial participant with burns.


    Quietly sighing in relief, Yerian said, ¡°That seems to be the last of them.¡± Not that could have continued much longer, im alomst out of mana again.


    Looking at Yerian in awe, shaking himself from his stupor. Henry said, ¡°Sir, ah, Magus Yerian. Everyone is fine now, except one person. We don¡¯t know what happened; one second he was getting ready to help someone who got burned, the next he keeled over.¡±


    Looking around yerian said, ¡°Strange, take me to them so I can get a better idea of what happened.¡±


    Leaning over the prone form on the ground, placing his hand on the trial participants forehead. Yerian said, ¡°Hmm, I¡¯ll need to contact the proctor to be sure. But there is some residual psychic energy, he also has a slight mana leak. With a few other signs that point to an Obvious failed possession.¡±


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. Looking at Yerian in shock Madison said, ¡°What how could this happen, what could have tried to possess Kyle?¡±


    Standing straight, Yerian said, ¡°I¡¯m not sure, I have a few guesses. But i want to contact the proctor to be sure.¡±


    As Yerian, and Madison were talking; a few feet from them, appeared another cloaked figure. Pausing mid sentence, turning and bowing. Yerian said, ¡°Proctor, i was just getting ready to contact you.


    Looking around at all the trial participants, Allen said, ¡°Yerian, did something else occur?¡±


    Going over details about what he had found out about Kyle¡¯s situation.


    After listening to Yerian¡¯s thoughts; bending besides kyle¡¯s pron form, placing his hand on kyle''s forehead. Allen said, ¡°Hmm, I agree definitely, a failed possession. But it¡¯s nothing a little injection of mana can¡¯t help him get over.¡±


    Across the Midlands in an unnamed valley of High cliff, hidden by layers of mist. Stood four figures, clothed in thick white robes.


    The tallest figure coughed, in a jagged tone it said, ¡°The project in Free City, has failed, and the scraper queen was terminated. What do you have to say for yourself, Stone?¡±


    The wide figure, called Stone said, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter Raum. The project was only a simply testing phase. We have acquired precious data, and we can use said data for other better placed opportunities.¡±


    The tall figure called Raum said, ¡°Ha, why try covering up your failure Stone. Just accept the fact that my idea is better.¡±


    Sputtering Stone said, ¡°You don¡¯t know what your talking about! The project in Free City was always meant to be a trial run, and never meant to actually succeed.


    Laughing,the shortest of the four said, ¡°It pains me to say it, but I agree with Raum. Your little project failed stone, except it.¡±


    Letting out an irate growl Stone said, ¡°Shut up Rose, neither of you know what your talking about! Fine, I didn''t want to say anything until I could find out more information first. But the scraper queen isn''t, at least spiritually speaking dead. While everyone knows what the first aim of my project was. None of you knew that I had a second aim. In furthering my knowledge on methods of possession, and its effects.¡±


    A cold sigh come from the fourth figure, an icy tone filled with disgust drifted through the valley. ¡°Enough, all your bickering is giving me a headache. Go, get back to work and unless it''s something truly important don''t bother me again.¡±

 6.1

    In the open plaza on the floating island that carried the great academy Eden. Light began to glow, in between six stone pillars that sat in the middle of the plaza. Stepping out of the glowing formation, the proctor followed by his assistants, and all the participants.


    Waving his arm, at the majestic structure that is Eden. Mantial said, ¡°Welcome to Eden, one of the best, if not the best academies on the continent.¡±


    Two grey-stone statues, positioned just outside of the teleportation formation; eyes flashing a bright green, stepped forwards, Dust falling from their stone joints.


    Meeting the proctor, In a gravelly voice the stone statue on the right, said, ¡°Welcome back, agent of the grey. Who are you bringing with you into Eden?¡±


    His smooth voice floating through the open plaza, Allen said, ¡°These are the new students that past the trial, im taking them to meet the headmaster.¡¯


    Its eyes glowed an even brighter green, scanning every individual with its cold glare.


    With the same tone as the statue on the right, the statue on the left said, ¡°You all are cleared to enter Eden, you may proceed.¡±


    As the statues returned to their original positions, the proctor led the group of trial participants through the open plaza. Staring around in wonder at the beautiful architure of Eden, whispering .to each other. Walking through corridor after corridor, the group finally made it to a set of giant double doors, made of some form of marble.


    Turning to look at the newest additions of Edens student body, Allen said, ¡°Behind this door is the headmaster. Please don¡¯t make a scene, and be respectful.¡±


    Shaking their heads in agreement; as the Giant double doors flashed with a green light, swinging open slowly.


    Standing before a raised platform, where the Headmaster sat in a dark-oak, and gold encrusted chair. Standing, his dark blue robes sweeping along the ground.


    Smiling, in a raspy tone, the headmaster said, ¡°Welcome to Eden, Do to the unforeseen events that happened in the south slums. I have decided to accept all of you into Eden; while you are the biggest class we have ever accepted, the standards have not changed. With that in mind, if you don¡¯t meet said standards unless under special circumstances, you will be kicked out.¡±


    Looking over the shocked students, with their disheveled clothes, and weary faces.


    The headmaster said, ¡° It¡¯s late, and you all have been through alot, I¡¯ll have Liana take you all to your temporary rooms, we will finish your introduction tomorrow morning.¡±This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    As the students were led from the room by Liana, Looking at Allen, the headmaster said, ¡°Allen would you compile all the records of the students. While I call the professors, I''ve chosen to be mentors here.¡±


    Bowing Allen said, ¡°Of course, headmaster, I already have files on all the students.


    Laughing, the headmaster said, ¡°What was I thinking; you¡¯ve been the same ever since you were a child, always so orderly. There is no way you would do something, like being a proctor. Without doing a complete background check on all your charges.¡±


    Face flushing from embarrassment, Allen said, ¡°Headmaster please don¡¯t make fun of me. I just like to do a thorough job.¡±


    The doors leading to the hall where the headmaster, and Allen were talking, swung open. As eight dark robed people slid into the room, in Unison they said, ¡°Headmaster, you called for us?¡±


    The headmaster said, ¡°Yes, Iv¡¯e chosen you all to be mentors for this years new students. Allen has set up a viewing orb with his records on the new students. Look them over decide who you want to mentor, we will be meeting them tomorrow morning.¡±


    Standing around the floating glass orb, that was projecting all the faces of the new students. All the Mentors looked at each of the holograms at least once. Before they started debating who got which students.


    Pulling at his long beard, peppered with grey one of the mentors said, ¡°I think I want the Nein..¡±


    Coughing, Interrupting the bearded mentor.


    A long blonde haired mentor said, ¡°Haa Shordwen, i think i¡®D be a better fit to mentor the Nein.¡±


    Looking affronted, Shordwen said, ¡°What do you mean by that, Griagor?¡± The other mentors looked like they were about to jump into the pending argument.


    Huffing slightly, Griagor said, ¡°It¡¯s quite simple i grew up close to the Nein, and i feel like that makes me better qualified to handle their particular needs.¡±


    Not only did Griagors reply stump the other mentors even Shordwen paused.


    Looking sullen Shordwen said, ¡°Fine, but i want the Guardsmen from the midland tribe.¡±


    Stepping forward, silver eyes flashing, one of the only two female mentors said, ¡°I¡¯m okay with you taking the guardsmen but I¡¯m taking the midland princess. I¡¯m also taking the Hayward girl.¡±


    Going back, and forth for a whole hour. The mentors Debated, and argued who was claiming which student or students. Finally all the students were assigned their mentors. When a black orb appeared next to the headmaster, floating in the vibrating, a husky voice said, ¡°Headmaster, i would like to take on one of the students.¡±


    Surprised the headmaster said, ¡°Desmond, I''ve never known you to take interest in mentoring a student before, what''s changed?¡±


    Voice flickering with undisguised irritation, Desmond said, ¡°Someone called in a favor, and I take my favours seriously. But if what I''m told is true, my interest has definitely been pricked.¡±

 6.2

    Running through a narrow alley, puddles of water splashing with every step. Trying to get away from the screeching that kept getting louder, and louder. As violet flashes jumped from the inky darkness surrounding him, sharp claws outstretched, and beady eyes glistening. Nipping at his body, driving him forward, towards what he didn''t know. With his heart beating like it wanted to break out of his chest. He tripped; slamming into the cold hard ground, breathe knocked from his body, as thousands of small violet-colored rats descended on him.


    Letting out a scream, I woke up; clasping my chest as beads of sweat dripped from my forehead. I said, ¡°Kyle you''re fine, it''s just a bad dream to much change in such a short period.¡±


    Nocking came from the door to my room, the voice on the other side said, ¡°Kyle are you okay? My names Liana, I''m here to pick you up to go to breakfast, and to meet your mentor.¡±


    Coughing, I said, ¡°Yes, I''m fine, I just woke up from a bad dream that''s all. One second I''m coming.¡± Wiping the sweat from my brow, and fixing my disheveled hair as best I could, I made my way to the door. Walking out into the hallway, as I crossed the threshold; my dirty clothes disappeared, replaced by a long grey robe, with a matching badge on the left side of my chest.


    I noticed that the rest of the crowd of students standing behind Liana wore the same outfit.


    Silently counting, looking over the crowd of students. Smiling, Liana said, ¡°Hmm, that seems to be all of you, please follow me.¡±


    Walking through the elegant hallways of Eden; walls lined with varying pieces of artwork, following behind Liana. After walking down two flights of steps, walking past an open garden area. Pausing, looking over the garden area, smiling. Liana said, ¡°It might not seem like it now, but this is where most of our students go when they''re on break. I remember when I was a student, it was my favorite place to go to read.¡±


    Entering a Huge room, with arcing windows the only source of light. Several round table sat in the center of the room, with just enough chairs for each student. Sitting in a row, in front of the three circular tables sat nine men and women in black robes. I noticed the headmaster sitting in the center.


    Smiling at us as we made our way to the tables, the headmaster said, ¡°Good morning students, please take a seat. Once you''re finished with breakfast we¡¯ll get to introduce you to your mentors. Who will be your mentors, for as long as your students at Eden.¡±This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    Shortly after sitting down next to Madison, and Alfred, everyone finished their food.


    Finishing the last of the juice in my glass. Turning to Madison, I said, ¡°Hey, I just wanted to thank you without your help, that scraper would have finished me off.¡±


    Laughing, Madison said, ¡°Anytime, what are friends for. If not to get you out of a tough jam when you need it.¡±


    Sputtering out a laugh, Alfred said, ¡°You should know from experience. How many times have I had to clean up a mess you made.¡±


    Sticking out her tongue at Alfred, Madison said, ¡°Ha, well that just proves my point.¡±


    As the headmaster stood up behind his table, the mentors following his lead.


    In a dry tone, He said, ¡°Now that everyone has finished their meal let''s get to the fun part of this morning, shall we? First, let me say welcome to Eden; our motto here is to strive not to be perfect, but to always grow, to never be satisfied with what has been, but to learn, and implement what could be. Never take knowledge, and wisdom at face value, there are thousands of ways at looking at something. Who knows maybe your perception of something just might make the difference in solving the unsolvable. ¡±


    Turning to the group of mentors, the headmaster said, ¡°Do any of you have anything you would like to say before claiming your students.¡±


    All the mentors shook their heads, in unison they said, ¡°No headmaster.¡±


    Standing with the other students, feeling my clammy palms, wet from nervousness. I couldn''t help but be worried, what if my mentor didn¡¯t like me. I¡¯d be stuck with this person that didn¡¯t like me, the whole time I was a student.


    Looking over the students, The headmaster said, ¡°Why don''t you all call your charges names, and then get acquainted.¡±


    As one name after another was called, and the group of students dwindled. I was struck with a thought what if I wasn¡¯t chosen by a mentor, was that even possible. My nerves had my stomach in knots, it was killing me, I regret eating earlier. Finally, I was the only one left standing alone, without a mentor. Just as the panic was setting in, full swing. A shadow form appeared next to the headmaster.


    Filling the room with pressure, a smoky-voice said, ¡°Sorry, I''m late headmaster, I had some business to take care of.¡±


    The shadows slipped off the figure revealing a tall black-robed figure; with blue-toned skin, that glistened from the light streaming in from the windows.


    Smiling, the headmaster said, ¡°It''s fine, you made it just in time Desmond, we just finished separating the students.¡±


    Gliding towards me, black robe rippling like smoke. Smiling, Desmond said, ¡°You must be kyle than, I''ve heard some interesting things about you.¡±

 6.3

    The corners of his eyes crinkled as he smiled the headmaster said, ¡°Hmm, now than, your mentors will lead you to your permanent residences. Afterward, take some time to converse with your mentor, about what classes you should take. Due to the situation that occurred in the south slums, classes will start up in three days. Enjoy this time to get settled, and prepare, because even though we have accepted all of you, the standards of Eden will be upheld. If you don¡¯t meet those standards you will be expelled.


    As the rest of the students followed their mentors out of the room; my mentor stood stock still, leaving me wondering what was going on, and maybe if I was in some kind of trouble.


    As the spaced-out look left his face, turning to the headmaster Desmond said, ¡°headmaster, I plan on taking Kyle to my demiplane. I always fulfill my promises.¡±


    Laughing, waving at my mentor, the headmaster said, ¡°Of course you do, go ahead Desmond; take your charge, just make sure he¡¯s back in time for his classes.¡±


    Slightly bowing Desmond said, ¡°I will headmaster, there is no need to worry about that.¡±


    Nervously, following behind my mentor through the gate of shadows he created, without any movements.


    Stepping through the gate; all I could see was blue-tinged shadows, it was like I had fallen into ice-cold water. Burning tingling spread across my skin as I lost the feeling in my whole body. Seconds that seemed to stretch into minutes that felt like hours. With a snap; the shadows receded from my vision, revealing a room made of some type of stone. Giant bookcases were everywhere filled with tomes of varying colors. Five hulking silver boxes were spread out around the parameter of the room.


    Looking at me, with a dark smile, my mentor said, ¡°Welcome to my demiplane; I modeled it after the shadowlands, It¡¯s where I do the majority of my research. Few have had the honor of coming here as guests.


    My stomach was still twisting from the gate trip, plus the nervousness of dealing with my mentor. Who I couldn¡¯t get a proper read on didn¡¯t help me decide how I should respond.


    Taking a chance, and try being honest, I said, ¡°It¡¯s very, well I don''t know who I should respond, I¡¯ve never been to a demiplane before, I don¡¯t even know what a demiplane is.¡±


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Laughing, He said, ¡°Honesty I like it, only the weak fear the truth, and can¡¯t bear to show their weaknesses. Have you heard of a microcosm?¡±


    Shaking my head I said, ¡°Yes, It¡¯s basically a spatial enhancement.¡±


    Walking deeper into the room He said, ¡°Great, walk with me as we talk, time is always precious. A demiplane is very much like a microcosm but on a whole other scale of power required to create one. Instead of making a space in our world bigger, and more complex. A demiplane is a completely separate space, that operates as a small world.¡±


    As we reached the first silver contraption. My mentor said, ¡°Since you¡¯ve shown me honesty I will do the same for you. I don¡¯t take students for good reason, I find it a waste of time, energy, and resources to take a student when your not going to put in a hundred percent of your effort to raise them up. Simply put; I¡¯m not just trying to help you find out what your talent is, but also if I should take you as a disciple. Of course, you could turn my offer down, and we can go separate ways.¡±


    What this isn¡¯t how I pictured this going at all, I definitely didn¡¯t see an ultimatum coming my way.


    Nervously, taking a deep breath, bowing deeply. I said, ¡°I don¡¯t really know you, I can¡¯t make such a serious decision without more information. I''m sorry for letting you down.¡±


    Chuckling, He said, ¡°Raise your head, Kyle, you didn¡¯t let me down. For many reasons I''ve never considered myself a Magus; First, and foremost I am a seeker of knowledge and a keeper of wisdom. Had you taken my offer, I would be disappointed in you and would have turned you down. While taking chances is important, being well informed of the risks, and benefits are even more important.¡±


    Looking at him in shock, I said, ¡°So this was nothing but a test than?¡±


    Smiling at me He said, ¡°Yes it was, you can¡¯t expect me to just take a disciple depending on just talent, can you? Let me fill you in on how things could proceed. I¡¯ll help you figure out your talent, and if you reach my standards. We will continue on to a few other tests, and if your willing after that I¡¯ll invite you to become my disciple. If you don¡¯t meet my standards or are unwilling we will continue with this student, and mentor setup that Eden uses. But you should know that I will not put forth the effort I would for a disciple.¡±

 6.4

    Pulling out a small silver tube, my mentor said, ¡°Come, let me take some blood, it¡¯s one of the basic tests I run to help figure out what a person''s talent is.¡±


    Feeling a slight burn as the needle pricked my skin. Releasing a soft hiss, I said, ¡°So what exactly are you using my blood to looking for.¡±


    As he waved the tube, now filled with my blood in front of his face. He said, ¡°It¡¯s not really that complex, at least nine out of ten talents come from have some form of a bloodline. So it¡¯s the first thing I look at, certain talents for specific bloodlines, makes my job easier.¡±


    Looking at my blood sloshing in the tube, I said, ¡°Oh well that makes sense.¡±


    Watching as he put the tube with my blood in it, in an opening on the side of the silver contraption. Mana began to thrum through the air surrounding the silver box, as lines of runes began to glow across its surface.


    With the hum of the vibrating box droning on in the background. I said, ¡°So what is this thing supposed to do?


    Turning to look at me my mentor said, ¡°Hmm, oh this It¡¯s called a machine but this particular machine is called a Nabu-synthesizer; it''s really just a branch of alchemy, and what it does is break down your blood to the smallest particle. Than sorts those particles into groups based on how they are identified. Each grouping not only represents a latent-bloodline but also how diluted it is.¡±


    As my mentor lead me to another machine, this one had a glass pyramid on top. I was baffled by this new wave of information, but it sure sounded interesting.


    Stepping beside this new machine, my mentor said, ¡°This machine is called a lux-inhibitor, it¡¯s used to replicate a high-stress situation, and records your reactions. All you have to do is stand on the circle over there, and look into the pyramid.¡±


    Standing on the small white circle, awkwardly pulling at my arm. I said, ¡°Like this?¡±


    Continuing to hit something on the other side of the machine, my mentor said, ¡°Yes, just like that, no need to be nervous.¡±


    Watching a glowing orb appear inside the glass pyramid, I said, ¡°Okay, this isn¡¯t so bad, I can totally do this.¡±


    The orb began to flash in a spectrum of light, my stomach dropped as my vision blacked out.


    Thousands of men in heavy armor fought, blades flying, and biting into their opponent''s bodies. With blood flying through the air as giant fires appeared throughout the battlefield. Over a hundred people shouting commands. Both armies clashing; diving down, rolling out of the way of an incoming blade, I felt the sting of an arrow pierce my thigh. With my heart beating loudly in my chest, my vision going red with rage. I felt the mana pour out of the air smashing down on my enemies.


    Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.Screaming, pausing as I realized I was back in the room, it felt like I just woke up from a dream.


    Looking around confused I said, ¡°Wha... what happened?¡±


    With mirth in his eyes, my mentor said, ¡°No need to worry, it¡¯s normal to have that reaction. The whole point of the lux-inhibitor is for you not realizing you''re in a dream.¡±


    Walking past me, My mentor said, ¡°Follow me, this test is a little different from the ones that came before. Please step into the formation.¡±


    ¡°Okay, is there anything I need to do once I''m inside?¡± I said, Walking into the glowing circle.


    Standing next to another one of the silver machines, tapping along its side He said, ¡°No, just close your eyes, and stand there. Just tell me if you feel anything.¡±


    Even with my eyes closed, I could still feel the slight tickle of mana against my skin. The deep vibrating sound of this machine seemed to beat in sync with the mana touching my skin. As the prickling sensation turned into a heavyweight feeling like I was wrapped in a cocoon of. I must have dozed off because the next thing I know, I hear my mentor calling.


    Shaking myself from the drowsy feeling, I said, ¡°Ugh, sorry I think I fell asleep must be because I didn''t sleep well last night, what were you saying?¡±


    Laughing, with an unreadable expression, my mentor said, ¡°It¡¯s fine, I was just going over my findings. But before we continue, I would just like to say, you meet my standards for becoming my disciple If your willing that is?¡±


    Looking at him in shock, I said, ¡°What, really? I didn¡¯t really think I''d make the cut, I mean I¡¯m not really anything special.¡±


    Sighing, my mentor said, ¡°Hmm, we can work on that later. But yes you¡¯ve definitely made the cut. Just say the word, and I¡¯ll accept you as my disciple, no pressure.¡±


    I don¡¯t know what to do I wish I had someone to talk to about this, but he doesn¡¯t seem as cold as he was earlier. He¡¯s also obviously knowledgeable, even the headmaster seemed to respect him.


    Looking at him, deciding to take another chance. I said, ¡°Yes, I would like to become your disciple.¡±

 6.5

    Taking me to another one of the Machines, my master said, ¡°Now that you''re my disciple, and have sworn a blood oath. I feel better about sharing some of my secrets with you, especially those that will help us understand your talent better. But first I¡¯d like for you to try out this last machine, called a Braxton-gage. All I need you to do is to use unstructured magic on that orb, anything will do.¡±


    Looking at the giant orb, protruding out from the silver machine. I said, ¡°Oh, okay I can totally do that.¡±


    Reaching towards the ambient mana floating in the air, with my perception. Pulling it towards my hands molding it into a ball. Envisioning what I wanted it to do; flicking my finger towards the orb, a bolt of ice blue light arced towards the orb, hitting it squarely in the middle. Lights flashing from its depth winking out just as quickly as they appeared.


    Letting out a breath of air, releasing my hold on the ambient mana around me. I said, ¡°That wasn''t terrible? It was definitely better than when I tried doing that in the slums.¡±


    Looking slightly surprised my master said, ¡°Hmm not bad, have you had a lot of practice with unstructured spell casting before?¡±


    Embarrassed, I said, ¡°No, I hadn¡¯t even used it before the trial in the south slums.¡±


    Rubbing his chin, my master said, ¡°Hmm, this is puzzling, and I do love a puzzle. I¡¯ve been studying talents for almost my whole life, trying to figure out what my own talent was. After thirty years of research, and a lucky trip to the arthic ruins. I found out my talent was called mana-body, which I inherited from my draconic bloodline. I thought you might have had the same talent, but the bloodline test showed you having almost zero markers, for having foreign bloodlines. On the other hand, the other tests all point to you having signs of the various talents that deal with mana. I have never seen so many tests points to varying talents, without a strong bloodline marker.¡±


    Looking at my master, I said, ¡°I don¡¯t really understand, what does that say about my talent.¡±


    Eyes clearing like he was actually looking at me, my master said, ¡°Sorry, I didn''t think about what you know or don¡¯t know about talents. While not all talents are tied to bloodlines; those talents that are far more potent, usually come from ancient bloodlines, like how my mana-body talent, comes from my bloodline that descends from the arctic sky-wyvern. But you don¡¯t have any strong bloodline markers, so where does your talent come from.¡±


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. I didn¡¯t realize talents were tied to bloodlines, it makes me wonder what bloodline Madisons and Alfred''s talents come from. Not just them either, but also the rest of the people I''ve encountered since coming to the free city.


    Slamming his hands together, rushing through the bookcases scattered throughout the room. my master said, ¡°Oh, Hold on! Hmm, where did I put that book.¡±


    Mumbling to himself as he went through book after book, my master said, ¡° Not here, Wenning¡¯s bulue, nope. Slatter Ridge, not here. Ahh, here it is; Davina¡¯s Gathering, It is one of the best books in my collection, written about a hundred years before the great shifting.¡±


    Appearing in front of me; with waves of excitement radiating off his body, causing the ambient mana around him to ripple, caring a thick golden tome. I was trying my best to hide my shock, he was like a completely different person. It made sense why he was such good friends with Mancin, they were cut from the same cloth.


    Flipping through the golden tome He said, ¡°I almost forgot about this book, Davina was supposedly a Divine witch who lived before the great shift. Best known for her vast knowledge and her studies on the deeper secrets of magic. Here it is, They have appeared in my dreams again. They have appeared more frequently since I''ve reached the Divine level. I''m still completely unable to tell what they look like, their bodies still covered by mana. Warning that an imminent disaster is coming, and it will affect the whole world. Even though it¡¯s nothing but a dream my mana feels suppressed.¡±


    Before I could ask what I was supposed to understand from that, my master said, ¡°It¡¯s not the first time I''ve read about these beings. That visited the powers of the time in their dreams, warning of the great shift. But they all have the same characteristics of being covered by mana and suppressing the mana of those they visit. I can¡¯t be certain, but I smell a connection between your talent and these mysterious beings. I¡¯ll do some more digging later we should move on It¡¯s getting late.¡±


    That makes a lot of sense if I understand what he''s saying. Bloodlines dilute with each descendant, maybe I just have a weird talent compared to that complete suppression. Bowing towards my master, I said, ¡°Thank you for all of your help.¡±


    Pulling a piece of paper from his spatial focus, my master said, ¡°While I¡¯ll teach you everything I can about unstructured spell casting, your still a student of Eden, and you will still have to take their classes. I view it as a great opportunity to learn the in¡¯s, and outs of what could be considered modern magic. I can suggest some classes that I think would benefit your unique situation. If you haven¡¯t already looked at the listing?¡±