《The Supreme Trickster》


 Chapter 1 Tricksters Rebirth

    Chapter 1 Trickster''s Rebirth


    He was flying...


    He could feel the chilly wind seeped through his body. It should have left him shivering, but for a reason he couldn''t infer, he was benumbed. He tried to move but couldn''t. He tried opening his eyes¡ªas much as he could¡ªonly to part a slit, revealing a portion of his frazil-silver pupil.Gyro Freqwas enveloped by darkness.''Aha! It''s nighttime.''He was feeling dizzy and confused, unable to register everything.


    Beside him were hazy silhouettes of two men with a white concentric energy disk swirling below their feet. These energy disks propelled the two figures as they zoomed through the air.


    ''Yes! I am really flying.'' he concluded. No, he was hovering in the air, enveloped by an unknown energy like magic. ''I must dreaming! This could be one of those dreams with magical people in it.''


    He wanted to speak, but his jaw was locked in place and his throat felt dry. He couldn''t even swallow his saliva when he tried to. Frustrated, he peered through the slitbetween his eyelids.


    He was feeling weak, so he pretended not to see them. He didn''t try to move nor assay; he knew it would be useless.


    A few minutes later, the two figures alighted on the ground. However, the hovering boy beside themplunged with a ¡ª thud! Fortunately, it was a soft ground, and Gyro was still feeling numb.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    "Mavrkuzs, shoyuzld wew rewavlly droyp thixs kixd''s boydy hewrew? Ixsn''t thavt toyoy cruzewl? Lewt''s juzt buzry hixm, ixt woyn''t toyoy loyng." One man spoke in a different language.


    "Tsk! You''re too soft Glenn. This kidhad given us enough trouble just by bringing his body here... Let''s just leave him here to rot... I hope no beast will wander around here so that he could have an intact corpse. Hahaha." The man named Markus chuckled as he eyed therigidbody of the kid. He was too lazy to bury the boy.Shaking his head, he said, "Let''s go... We''ve been out for too long, people might get suspicious." The white disk rematerializedbeneathhis feet andimpelled him to the air.


    Glenn glanced at the body and murmured, "Sorry kid, I hope you''ll be lucky in your next life... Please don''t curse us in the underworld¡ªwe''re just following orders." Glancing at the bodyonelasttime, he sighed andascended tofollow Markus.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    Lying on the ground, Gyropeeredthrough his eyelids, his sight followed the speeding white disk until it vanished.


    He was puzzled.


    ''Did they just left me here? Who are they and what language was that? Hmm... They probably thought I died and left me here to rot? Why do I feel that something is not right here? Wait! What?!..I died?!'' He suddenly realized what was wrong.


    ''I died? But¡ªI''m alive... Tsk! This must be one of my nightmares. I hope I''ll wake up soon.'' He had several of those nightmares where he was being pursued by monsters or unknown creature trying to kill him. He believed he was having nightmares again and would soon wake up¡ªdrenched with sweat.


    He gazed at the sky as he lay motionless on the ground.It was full of stars glittering in dark, formingbizarrepatterns.He wasn''t familiar with these constellations; and the Big Dipper and Belt of Orion which he could normally see in the sky weren''t among them.


    ''Strange dream indeed.''


    First, he wastrapped in a strange room for six months. Then, he met people who could fly and was dumped in the middle of nowhere to rot, then... He discovered the unfamiliar and strange constellations in the sky. ''Tch! I really do have a great imagination. Perhaps, I should write a novel about them.''


    ''Oh! Hahaha... Since I can''t do anything, I... should analyze my latest Yo-yo trick. It has full of flaws, and I haven''t succeeded even once.'' Just as hethought about it, a torrent of information surged through his brain.


    Then, headache. A splitting headache assaulted his senses. Only now did he realized that he had regained his other senses as the numbness of his body disappeared.


    He felt like his skull was being grind down. Wincing and rolling, he clutched his head with two hands and tried to stay conscious while enduring the pain. Theneverything went blank. He finally succumbed to the searing pain and lost consciousness.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    A few hours later, the dark night had begunto turn dark blue. As the sun rose over the eastern horizon, the dark blue skies turned azure blue with red-orange tint. Sunlight was refracted by the cumulus clouds cascading like pink cotton candies.


    He awoke with a start. The mental pain he had experienced earlier was gone. However, his body was too weak. He gritted his teeth as he endured his aching muscles.


    ''What was that earlier?'' That washis first time feeling so much pain while dreaming. ''Wait! Wait! Wait! What are these informations? Are these memories?''This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    He couldn''t remember havingsuch memories. They weren''t his and belonged to someone else.


    ''Could it be? No... No. Nooooo. Please no!''


    He was drowned by overwhelming emotions. He panicked and didn''t know what to do. After a few minutes, he calmed down and tried to understand what was happening. Although he was not as smart as top student in his class, he had a good analytical ability. Every time he encountered a problem, he would systematically analyze and solve them.


    After laying out everything, he knew he wasn''t dreaming. He had occuppied someone''s body¡ªno, his soul somehow merged with someone''s body who happened to have the same first name as him¡ªGyro. He had been reincarnated like the MCs in the novels that he had read online.


    He was musing over the reason of his death, and remembered walking on his way home after watching the showof the youngest Yo-yo Grand Master in history, then...


    ''Ah! I''d saved that granny from the speeding truck. So I died from that accident!''


    Finally, realizing his death, a heavy sigh escaped his thin lips. He even thought of a bizarre idea that one could be reincarnated by helping a granny. He shook his head thinking of his crazy ideaas the aftereffect of his rebirth.


    ''But wait! Why do I have a memory of having been trapped in a strange place for six months? Was that a memory or a dream?''


    Gyro thenjerked as he remembered his parents back on Earth. Tears suddenly swelled in his eyesand flowed down his paleface.He was their only son. Losing him must have devastated them. He was hoping they were okay and had accepted what happened to him; and he wanted to tell them that he was alive and well.


    Then, a thought came into his mind. There was magic in this world...Then perhaps he could return to Earth through magic. Suddenly, his azure blue eyes lit up with his soaring confidence. There was hope... He had to learn magic and return home¡ªto his parents.


    As the sun rays kissed his pale skin, he felt a soothing warm sensation washing away his weariness. He was still too weak to move, though. An hour later, he crawled up. He staggered several times andshambled withhis weary and weak body to an unknown direction. One thought was ingrained in his mind, ''Survive and learn Magic!''


    He surveyed his surrounding and waddled through the towering, verdant trees and thick, lush shrubberies. Despite faltering several times, he kept on dragging himself without a clear destination in mind. ''Survive and learn Magic!''


    As he trudged across the forest, he heard roaring and growling from afar. Although he was weak, he still had basic mental fortitude and would cautiously hide behind trees or shrubbery every time he felt a beast approached.


    Boom... Boom...


    He heard a beastdrew nearer, so he hid behind a tree. The dark circles around his eyes stretched when he tried to fully open them. He sighed and leaned on the tree, but was dumbfounded to see his skinny arms and legs for the first time. He was malnourished to the point that only a bag of skin was holding up his bones.''What really happened to this guy?''


    Trudging across the forest felt like forever. He was too tired, thirsty and hungry¡ªand was starting to feel dizzy.


    Not eating anything made him felt nauseous and was about to puke something.


    Pwaak!


    Stingky and gross black liquid showered out of his mouth¡ªit was like an acid, hot and bitter.


    Pwaak!


    Another torrent of black liquid poured out of his mouth. He didn''t know what it was, but he finally felt a little better; so he continued to walk and walk until his feet sore. Only now did he noticed that he had no shoe or anything protecting his feet. His toes were already bleeding, swelling and had bruises all over them. He gritted his teeth as he winced and endured the pain.


    Hssst!


    Hissing the pain out, he continued to walk until he couldn''t take a single step anymore. His subconscious, however, was telling him to continue moving forward. Crawl if you had to. So he crawled. He crawled until he passed out. ''Survive and learn Magic!''


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    Hours later...


    "Father! Look! There''s someone here!" A small high pitch voice sounded. It was from a girl, strolling along with a middle-age man. She was around 13-15 years old with long purple hair, a cute and charming purple eye which sat on her oval face.


    "Who could it be? Oh! He is still breathing and had a pulse, albeit weak. He is dying. Fortunately, you have noticed him Zy. You really have a sharp eye, my little girl." The middle-aged man praised adoringly.


    "Father, stop calling me little girl. I''ll be 15 in a few months you know." The girl named Zy pouted.


    "Hahaha. In my heart, you are always my little girl." The man grinned while ruffling her hair. He applied some medicine to Gyro''s swelling feet and put a pill in his mouth.


    "Alright, let''s go. We need to bring him home, so he could rest and recover. It''s too hot here in the open." He lifted Gyro carefully and placed him over his shoulder.


    "Father, why don''t you just use a Levitation Art? It''s too troublesome to manually lift him like that." She suggested. It didn''t make any sense to her. With such easy method to lift the boy, why should her father insisted on carrying him like that?


    "Zy, remember this, if you can do something without using the Art, then don''t use it. People tend to go lazy because they always depend on it to do simple things. It''s a total waste of Messence."


    "But wasn''t that the purpose of Messence and Arts, to do things easier?" She really couldn''t understand his reason.


    "Yes, but not to everything, that you forget the purpose of your hands and other parts of your body. Using your body could let you feel alive and know that you are still human. Remember, Mystical Arts isn''t everything, it is just a tool. Being human is still important. People tend to lose their humanity in pursuit of power and rely on Arts too much. You can''t be like them, understand?" He advised, while his expression turned downcast as he thought of something.


    "Yes, Father." She nodded, although she only understood a part of what her father had just said. She noticed her father''s expression, so she comforted, "Father, you''re thinking of Mother again? Don''t worry, I have a feeling that she is okay. Everything will be okay, father, " she assured.


    "Hahaha. As long as I have my baby, I''ll be okay." He knew that thinking about those things was useless. Even being a Diamond Mystician, he was helpless against them. He could only sigh as they continue walking.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    Gyro suddenly woke up with a jerk of his legs. He stared at the ceiling, feeling confused. He knew he had passed out due to fatigue. His mindstill hoped that everything was just a dream. But when he was expecting to find his room after waking up from a strange dream, he found himself in an old medieval-like room. ''So I wasn''t dreaming.''


    He glanced at the glittering crystalline stone hanging at the light brown and gray brick wall. It was the only source of illumination in the room.


    "Magical!" He exclaimed and sat up, but he suddenly felt dizzy.


    "Oyh! Yoyuz avwavkew!" That was last sound he heard as he passed out again.


    ''Eh! He passed out again?'' Zy thought as she exited the room.


    After an unknown time, Gyro woke up with aching head. Earlier, he tried to access the memories of his predecessor but was assaulted by another mental pain. He decided to delve into it later.

 Chapter 2 Trii

    Chapter 2 Trii


    Gyro lay on the bed, gazing at the ceiling while pondering on his newfound hope. He knew it would not be easy; and he had no idea where or how to start.


    ''But where''s my OP skills or cultivation inheritance? Wasn''t that the norm from those novels? Dear God or Demon Lord...Merlin, Gandalf, Dumbledore, whoever you are, shouldn''t you give me something to help me become strong? It isn''t too much to ask for a super body, right?'' He was hoping for another miracle.


    However, he was answered by silence. The voice he was expecting didn''t come, except for the chirping crickets in the background and a soft breeze wafting through the window.


    ''Sigh. Why put me here with nothing at all? What do you want me to do¡ªwait for those super magicians to burn me to ashes? Tsk! Never mind, I guess I have to rely on my self now. I need to know more about this world and its magic.''


    ''Who had saved me by the way? I seem to hear a girl''s voice before I passed out again.''


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    cock-a-doodle-doo!


    Gyroawoke with a start at the king roster''s morning cry. Sunlight passed through the window, brightening and warming the room.


    He kicked hard, struggling to get up as his legs was strangled by a blanket. A soft sigh escaped his lips after freeing himself. He stuck both arms on bed to trice up his still weak body, he then waddled towards the window to properly welcome the eternal sun. ''It''s good to be alive!''


    From the window, he saw a man pacing back and forth in front of 15 kids around his age¡ªpracticing swords, spears and other weapons. The man was occasionally giving pointers on their stance and weapon positioning.


    Gyro observed the busy adult villagers attending to their daily chores, but they¡ªat times would glance over the children with a smile. Then he saw more people exiting the gray and light brown Brick houses, which reminded him of medieval Europe from the movies he had watched on Earth.


    He scanned the memory of his body''s original owner, but was disappointed to discover incoherent, jagged information. Everything was all over the place. Frowning, he tried to assemble some pieces of information from the memory.


    Brother. Betrayed. Poisoned. Dumped in mine. House of Luksford.


    Gyro somehow managed to find pieces of information from the hazy memory. He wondered why he didn''t retain the full memory of his body''s original owner. ''Sigh. No inheritance to assist me, then this... Tsk. The hell with this rebirth! The original owner was betrayed¡ªLuksford family, huh? At least I have a clue of whom he was. The black liquid I spued in forest was probably the poison that claimed this guy''s life.'' Fortunately, the information merged with his soul, so he could understand them.


    Gurgghh!


    As his stomach grumbled, he caught whiffs of bread and coffee that wafted through the gap on the door.


    "Oyh! Yoyuz avrew uzp. Coymew, lewt''s ewavt." Strings of incomprehensible words from the man welcomed him as he exited the room.


    He stood there frozen in place. Aside from the incomprehensible words, he felt uncomfortable with other people close to him. Perhaps, only his parents were the ones whom he had no qualms to be with. He had always been a loner with a world of his own and a Yo-yo as his friend and companion.


    But, he was in a new world now. He was alone, and no one would take care of him other than himself. He should somehow adapt to these changes.


    With great struggle, he willed himself to glance at his savior and bowed to show his gratitude for saving him. He was blushing red while prompting his body forward.


    Seeing the troubled expression of the boy, the man smiled warmly, motioning him to sit and eat along with them.


    He nodded, understanding the man''s intention. Then, he picked up a loaf of bread and ate heartily, gnawing them in a hurry as if he was afraid of being caught stealing from the nearby bakery. His hunger overcame his uneasiness.


    "Ewavsy, ewavsy. Noy oynew ixs goyixng to gewt ixt froym yoyuz." The man said while noticing the strange expression of the boy.


    Gyro sat there with a blank expression on his face. Language barrier had always been a hindrance for people of different countries even in his past life. He shook his head attempting to convey his failure to understand any word.


    "Yoyuz cavn''t uzndewrstavnd avny woyrds Ix juzst savixd?" The man queried.


    Gyro sighed and shook his head again, resorting to sign language.


    "Father, what''s going on? He doesn''t understand our language? Is he from another continent?" Zy asked her father.


    "I don''t know either. He is probably from another continent. But even so, he should at least understand some words, the dialect on this continent only varied on some words and were still part of the main language of our world." The man answered.


    "Nonetheless, he could stay here for as long as he wanted to. I don''t know what calamity he had gone through, but at least he didn''t die. He should be grateful for that. We have to help him, Zy. Teach him the basic language, alright?"


    "Yes, leave it to me father." came her ardent reply. At least she had a brother now. Her eyes twinkled at the thought.


    The following weeks, Gyro became familiar with the father and daughter duo. He always wanted a sibling in his past life, hence, living with a kind and cute girl, somehow fulfilled his wish. His uncomfortable feeling towards them gradually subsided.


    Zy taught him a few words. He essayed to understand and remember everything. He was like a toddler trying to learn his some words, such as: ewavt=eat, brewavkfavst= breakfast, favthewr= father and so on. All the basic words.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    After a week, somehow, he gained something and was able to convey comprehensible words with great of effort.


    The days slipped by in a breeze.


    Learning the language with difficulty, bored him to death¡ªor, so he felt. He didn''t know what else he would do. He was only good at one thing, so borrowed a knife from Zy''s father. Then, he searched for a good quality wood to carve a wooden Yo-yo. He clumsily smoothened it and attached a string to it.


    After admiring his work with glittering eyes, he looped in the string on it. He tied the other end of the string at his right hand middle finger and hold the Yo-yo in front of him with his palm facing down, then he opened his palm, releasing the yo-yo.


    Swoosh!


    It rolled down in a swish. The moment the yoyo reached the end of its unwinding, he flicked his wrist, tugging the yoyo as it wound back to his hand. Of course, it was the most basic yo-yo trick, the Gravity Pull. With no advance mechanism on the Yo-yo that would allow him to perform other tricks, Gyro was contented with what it could do.


    "Waaah! What is that? Seems cool." Zy''s excited voice echoed from behind.


    "This... is a... umm.. to... " He tried to explain, but he couldn''t put it into words.


    "Umm... Pla...play." He made a sign.


    "Oh! You mean this is a toy for some kind of game?" Zy somehow understand.


    He nodded with a smile, "Yews!"


    "Oh, great! Let me see how it works then." She smiled as she waggled her eyebrow, anticipating some thrill.


    "Yews, " he answered shyly. Then he tried to perform a Throw Down trick.


    He extended his hand in front of him with the palm up, then, he held the yo-yo on its edge and whipped it straight down with a strong overhand motion. Gyro made sure that it didn''t lean to the side or the other.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The Yo-yo swirled down. When it was about to reach the end of the string, he gave a slight tugged on the string. With a swooshing sound, the yo-yo wound back up and returned to his hand; he firmly grasped it, stopping its twirl.


    "Hahaha! Cool, cool. Gy, teach me!" Zy exclaimed!


    "Su...sure."


    For several weeks, Gyro had nothing to do but learn the Mystral language from the girl and play with yo-yo. He wanted to ask more about the world, but he couldn''t put his question into words. Hence, he didn''t force himself. It wouldn''t be too late to ask once he fully understands the language.


    He kept on practicing the basic yo-yo tricks, though. He wanted to fully adapt to his new body as he clumsily performed each tricks. Somehow he felt that something was blocking his desire to perfectly perform the tricks. But, he made some progress on his tricks as he slowly perfected them.


    ?Ding! Host confirmed!?


    ''Huh?! What was that?'' he was startled by the sudden voice.


    He glanced around but found no one. Gyro shook his head thinking it was his imagination.


    ?Ding! Trick System Activation Requirements fulfilled. Synchronizing with host soul. Host will be subjected to deep-sleep for 4 hours.?


    That was the last sound he heard before slumping on the ground.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    Four hours later, Gyro awoke with a splitting headache.


    "Oh! You''re awake. How are you feeling?" Zy''s father asked. They were worried when they found him unconscious in the backyard earlier.


    Gyro massaged his temple trying to shake away the dizziness. He shook his head to convey that he wasn''t okay. He, of course, felt the concern of the duo which made his lonely heart warmed. After a while, the duo left him to rest.


    ''What was that? I clearly hear a voice in my head earlier. Hallucination? Was my soul had not integrated perfectly with my new body yet?''


    ?You are not hallucinating host.?


    ''What?! Who¡ªWho are you? Why are you in my head? Are you the original owner of this body?'' He nearly bolted up.


    ?No. His Godship called me Trii, and I am the spirit of the Trick System installed in your mind. You can ask me anything about the system.?


    ''Huh?! You mean, there''s a system in my head installed by some God?''


    ?Yes Host!?


    ''I see, so there was a system in my head. Hahaha. Thanks, God!'' finally, an answered prayer, he was rhapsodic.


    ''Then, Trii, who really is this¡ªGodship you spoke of? And what is his purpose of bringing me in this world?'' He was somehow intrigued about this God. Perhaps, that God could help him return home since he was able to bring him in this world.


    ?His Godship is, of course, a God in the Godrealm Faemea. But further Information on his Godship is locked, so does his reason of bringing you here. Host is advised to strengthen himself to unlock it.?


    ''Sigh! As expected, I''ve got no information again... Trii, what is this system you spoke of?''


    ?His Godship personally created the TRICK SYSTEM to assist you, Host, become stronger.?


    ''Oh really? Help me become stronger? How? By the way, I was reborn into this world for weeks, how come you just pop out now?''


    ?Because only after perfecting your first trick will the Trick System requirement be satisfied; it was set by his Godship himself. You can grow stronger using the Trick System Points or TsP.?


    He was about to ask when Trii cut him off.


    ?There are several ways to acquire Tricks System points: Completing a task or mission, Creating new Yo-yo tricks, Upgrading or evolving existing tricks, Training and Defeating or killing enemies.?


    ''So, there are many ways to acquire this TsP. Wait! What?! Do I really need to kill someone?'' Gyro was from a world where law and order were strictly followed, so gaining points by killing others, completely overturned his morality. Even if others would malign or offend him, he couldn''t imagine himself killing them. ''I will become a murderer now?''


    ?Host need not worry, you can kill beasts or monsters to gain points. But, Host should be warned that you are in a world where the strong preys on the weak, so for a person to kill his enemies are common occurrence. If you want to be strong, you have to step on the bones of your enemies sooner or later. Because if you don''t, they will kill you instead. You are in a cruel world after all.?


    ''So what''s with ''not worry'' then? *Sigh* Just tell me that I don''t have a choice... I should have known, people with magical powers are bloodthirsty.''


    ?...?


    ''Ahh, right, Trii.''


    ?Yes, Host??


    ''Why can''t I accessed this body''s original owner''s full memories?'' He was hoping that the system could help him resolve the issue.


    ?Host''s question is beyond my understanding. His Godship personally had Integrated Host''s soul into your new body, so there shouldn''t have any trace of the original owner''s soul. The process should have been perfect, so I don''t understand why there are former owner''s memories left.?


    ''Damn it! I thought I could get help from the memories. Why did he erase it? Sigh. What kind of bulls*** God is he anyway?...Ahh, whatever!'' Naturally, he didn''t know that God Yzotl wanted him to have a clean slate, free from his predecessor''s problems.


    ?...? Trii was speechless. How could her Host cursed his Godship? Hopefully, his Godship wouldn''t take it to heart.


    ''Trii, I have memories of being trapped for 6-months in a strange place, do you know anything about it?''


    ?Yes, based on Host'' memory, you suffered a coma for 6-months after your accident. During that time your soul was trapped in your Mystic Sea or Mystic Soul Sea.?


    ''Huh? Coma..? Sigh, Mom and Dad probably didn''t lose hope until the last second... Eh! What the hell is Mystic Soul Sea?''


    ?Information locked. Host need to level up or spend 20 TsP to unlock it.?


    ''Tsk! Another dead end, I see... Do I have any TsP?''


    ?Host, you can view it on your status window by saying "STATUS".?

 Chapter 3 First Mission

    Chapter 3 First Mission


    "STATUS"


    STATUS WINDOW


    NAME: Gyro Freq


    Age: 15Mistran years


    Race: Human


    Realm: Mystic Null (Myul)


    Trick System Points (TsP): 100


    Mystic Essence (Messence): 0/100


    Strength: 6


    Dexterity: 8


    Endurance: 6


    Vitality: 5


    Intelligence: 7


    Brain efficiency: 10 (partially blocked)


    Health Status: Partially healed, Veintrix crippled.


    Trick Spin available: 1


    Free Attribute Points (AP): 0


    Mystic Tricks:


    Basic- Gravity Pull (Perfect), Throw Down (Advance: 90/100)


    Mystic Meditation Arts: None


    Mystic Arts: None


    Trick System evaluation: Host is a weak trickster.


    ''Oh! It''s like rpg panel! Eh?! What''s with my stats, are they low or high? Hmm... my basic tricks are listed. Messence, Mystic Meditation Arts, Mystic Arts... What are these things? Trii... Never mind¡ªlevel up again, right? Tsk... Trii, where did these 100 TsPs came from and what''s with 10% partially blocked Brain Efficiency?''


    ?Host, Average human adult have 10 points basic attributes, and yes, your body hasn''t recovered yet, so your stats are low. Also, Host had been awarded with 100 TsP after activating the system.?


    ?I think the remnant soul of your predecessor seems to be blocking you from using his body''s full capability until you accomplish his last wish. Host, this is only my speculation because "this" shouldn''t have happened in the first place.?


    ''What?! You don''t know? Then, what should I do? Ten percent Brain Efficiency wouldn''t be a problem, right?'' he was disappointed.


    ?For ordinary people, it shouldn''t be a problem. But if you want to strengthen yourself, you need at least 20% Brain Efficiency.?


    ''Huh?! You mean to say I don''t have hope of becoming stronger?!'' he frowned. His hope¡ªhis only hope of returning to Earth seemed to flush down the drain.


    ?Host shouldn''t worry too much. Just accept the mission left by your predecessor, perhaps it would help you from your predicament.?


    ''Mission? There''s a mission? Lemme checked!'' the spirit''s words seemed to lift him up. He was hoping for a miracle.


    ?Mission 1: Accept the Remnant soul''s last wish. Reward: Unknown.?


    He stared at the blinking red words on the Mission panel. He hesitated...


    ''Trii, how do I view the mission details?''


    ?Host, just need to think about it.?


    ''Oh!'' he thought about the first mission.


    ?Mission 1 details: Gyro Luksford, the original owner of the Host''s body wants the Host to Investigate his death and take revenge against the traitor who betrayed him. Failure to accomplish the mission will cripple the Host''s ability to grow stronger. Accept??


    ''Ehh?! You wanted me to take revenge on your enemy? Damn it! At least tell me more details. Your memories are all over the place¡ªyou think I like to solve puzzles do you?'' he had no choice, though. The remnant soul seemed to be in control. He sighed and paused for a while...


    ''Accept!''


    ?Ding! Mission accepted. Partial reward granted! Synchronizing...?


    ''Eh! Wait! At least warn me first!!!'' he was about to cry out when a pricking sensation assaulted his mind. He lost consciousness for a few minutes.


    When he woke up, Trii''s voice rang out.


    ?Synchronization successful. Brain Efficiency had been increased to 20%. Updating Mission 1...?


    ''Hah! Finally, some improvement! Damn, the guy actually held on his Brain Efficiency¡ªAt least his partial reward increased it to 20%.'' he roared in his mind. Gyro could feel his senses had improved after his Brain Efficiency had increased. His eyesight became clearer, and his hearing sensitivity had increased. His understanding of Mystral language deepened; and his thinking ability also improved tremendously.


    ''Hmm?! There are two other mission?'' he hadn''t noticed them earlier.


    ?Mission 2: Fully learn the Mystral language. Reward: 10 TsP.?


    ?Mission 3: Gather basic information about the world and its cultivation system. Reward: 10 TsP.?


    ''So the system didn''t give those answers because it wants me to discover them myself. I can only learn the language quickly and ask Zy or her father about the world.'' he inferred.


    ''Trii, you didn''t explain the Trick Spin!''


    ?Because the Host didn''t ask.? Then came Trii''s sharp reply.


    ''Tsk! Even that needs to be asked? Alright, what about that trick spin?''


    ?Every time the Host level up, you will be awarded with 1 trick spin. The reward from the spin is random and is based on the Host''s luck. It can be an item, tricks, TsP, Mystic Art or Meditation Art.?


    ''Okay! Please spin for me!'' his eyes twinkled with expectations.


    ?Host''s trick spin granted.?


    Swoosh!


    Ding!


    ?Congratulations Host, you''ve won a Mid Level Trick.?


    ''Nice! But where is it?'' he assumed that it would appear in front of him.


    ?Host, it is in the inventory.?


    ''There''s an inventory as well? Trii, do I have to ask you for something like this? It''s basic, so you should have informed me about it.'' Gyro grumbled, he somewhat blamed the system''s spirit.


    ?It is Host''s responsibility to discover the system''s functions. I am merely here to assist and answer host''s questions.? Trii retorted in a dull tone.


    ''Alright, alright... What kind of spirit are you anyway? You''re more intelligent than humans...''


    ?Of course Host, my intelligence is close to God as designed by his Godship, but some restrictions were placed on me, so I can only answer questions appropriate to Host''s level.? Trii replied in a proud tone.


    ''I see now...''


    ''Ehhh! What''s this?'' he was surprised to see a box in the inventory.


    ?That''s a system activation bonus package for the Host.?


    ''Really? Lemme see what''s in there hmm... Wooah!'' he found a pigeon size white orb inside the box.


    ''Trii?''


    ?You had been seriously injured, and your Mystic Essence Vein Matrix or Veintrix were crippled, so his Godship left you with the white orb. It could heal, repair and enhance your crippled Veintrix.?


    ''Right! I was about to ask about this crippled Veintrix thingy in my stat window.''


    ?Information requires 5 TsP, proceed??This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    ''Damn it! Proceed!'' he thought with gritted teeth.


    ?A human body have Mystic Essence Vein matrix or Veintrix, which serves as path or route when circulating Mystic Essence.?


    ''So it''s like meridians or acupoints mentioned in those cultivation novels... Great! With the white orb, my crippled veintrix could be healed and recovered...Hmm?''


    ''Trii, how do I use the orb?'' he queried.


    ?A drop of your blood could activate it.?


    He drew out the white orb and bit his pinky.


    Ouchh! Hisssh!


    He winced. After dropping a blood on the orb, Gyro suddenly heard a notification.


    ?Absorb Mystic Essence from a Body Reconstruction Orb??


    "Yes!" he swiftly answered.


    ?Absorbing... 0%...1%...10%...?


    Gyro''s body was instantly enveloped by white lights. He slowly felt the changes happening on his body. Then pain... Excruciating pain assaulted his senses. He gritted his teeth and endured as his Veintrix and all his other injuries were being reconstructed, repaired and healed. His muscles stretched and contracted, but he endured to stay conscious during the process.


    ?Ding! Host Body reconstruction completed!?


    Hah!


    ''Phew! Finished at last!'' He deeply breathed, feeling the changes in his body. His felt energized.


    Crack... Crack...


    Gyro clenched his fist which tuned out a cracking noise in the room¡ªhe opened and clenched it again and again... He rapidly blinked his eyes while admiring his newfound strength and grinning from ear to ear.


    ?Ding! Readjusting Host''s stats... 0%...10...50%...100%.?


    Checking his stats: strength 10, dexterity 12, intelligence 14, endurance 10, vitality 10. Absorbing the orb clearly improved his stats to a new level.


    ''This is great! Hahaha!!! Hmm, let''s check the reward trick... Hmm.. Oh, this is new... Shooting Star Break Away? It resembles a Break Away trick, but it''s a forward swing rather than to the side. The speed and rotation of the Yo-yo are on another level as well... Hmm, this is tough.'' he needed to practice it diligently.


    His decision to utilize Yo-yo as a weapon was supported by the Trick System, so incorporating his tricks in offense and defense was necessary. But just by thinking about it was giving him a headache... The idea, though, elevated his hope and excitement.


    "Oh! You are awake Gy!" Zy''s mellifluous voice interrupted his thoughts.


    "Thanks, Zy... I, I felt..bet..ter now." he smiled rather weakly as he couldn''t show his sudden improvement to avoid suspicion.


    "As long as you''re okay. Let''s go, dinner is ready." she tugged him out of the room.


    "O...okay... Zy, may I bo...rrow some language books later? I want to lea...learn quickly, so... so I... reading will... sp..speed up my learning." he asked.


    "Oh, no problem..." she agreed, then called out, "Father, we''re here"


    "Good! I''ll be there in a while." the man shouted from the outside.


    Over the pastweeks, his improvement in Mystral language was astonishing to the point of stunning the father and daughter duo.


    ?Ding! Second Mission completed. 10 TsP acquired.?


    ''Phew! Those books from Zy really helped.'' it accelerated his learning speed. He also found out the complete name of the girl, Zyra Juett.


    ?Ding! Add the final book to the System Library??


    "Yes!"


    The first time he read his borrowed books, he discovered that the system could store its information, compiling it in the so-called System Library or SysLib. That was on the premise that he could finish reading the book first.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    Clack! Clack! Neigh!


    Tak! Tak!


    The sound of the carriage being pulled by the horses resonated in the air. Gyro and the duo were going to the nearest city.


    "Uncle Helthor, can you tell me everything about this world? My previous injuries left me unable to recall anything except my first name." he asked Zy''s father, Helthor Juett.


    Gyro had an expectant look as he eyed the middle-aged man, who had an oval face and purple eye. He was the village Mystical Forger, which was evident in his muscular build.


    "Oh, you finally decided to ask. I''ve already expected it just by looking at your expression." Helthor grinned broadly as he slightly tugged his long beard.


    "Let''s see... this world¡ªis called Mistikahl World. It has three continents: the Ewavst Continent or ECon where we are currently in; Wewst Continent or WCon; and between them is the largest Cewntravl Continent or CeCon. This world¡ªis governed by humans with mystical abilities known as Mysticians." Helthor paused to let him absorb the new information. Then, he continued,


    "This world has a special energy called Mystic Essence or simply Messence. Absorbing this energy could strengthen a Mystician. They can store this energy in their bodies and utilize it to execute their skills or Mystic Avrst for different purposes¡ªTo attack, defend, support, create and many other purposes." he expounded.


    ''This Mystic Essence was like Qi or mana?'' Gyro thought. ''So those flying people are called Mysticians.''


    "How does one become a Mystician?" he asked.


    "Not all people could become a Mystician; a person had to activate his or her Mystic sea or Mystic Soul Sea first and become a Novix¡ªand only 1 in a hundred Novix could become a Mystician.


    The Mystic Soul Sea is a special region in our brain which allowed us to sense the Messence in our surroundings.


    However, Mystic Soul Sea could only be activated if one had a Brain Efficiency of 20-30%... The people who activated their Mystic Soul Sea are called Novix¡ªonly2 of ten people can become a Novix. But, a Novix will become a Mystician, only if he or she possessed a mystic element affinity. The four basic Mystic elements are: Earth, Wind, Fire and Water. There are other rare elemental affinities like lightning, ice, light or dark and many others.


    On the other hand, ordinary people are called Mystic Null or simply Myul because they haven''t activated their Mystic Soul Sea before they turned 16Mistran years old. Hence, they couldn''t sense the Messence. Myuls'' Brain Efficiency is at most at 10%.


    Hmm... I think, those are the most important things you have to know for now. You could learn more information later. You are still young, so you still have enough time to learn them." Helthor concluded.


    "Eh? That''s it? Do Mysticians have levels?"


    "Well... you''ll learn about them sooner or later. Originally, there were 6 Mystician Realms: Novice, Junior Master, Master, Grand Master, Arch Master, and God Master... However, no one had been able to ascend to Godhood for the last 10 thousand years... Each realm has a different rank. I for one am a Diamond rank Master Mystician... If a Novix possessed a Mystic affinity, his next level would be Iron Rank Novice Mystician."


    "So, it''s not enough to activate Mystic Soul Sea to become a Mystician..." he muttered feeling somewhat downcast. He didn''t know if he had a mystic element affinity. He knew he was a Novix but...


    "Yes, but each person could only possess one mystic element affinity. No one had ever possessed more than one affinity." Helthor explained.


    "How does one know if they have affinity?" he inquired.


    "There will be a test in the city, that''s why I brought you and Zy to the city. Ziroth, the Academy of Mystic Arts will be conducting a test to accept students before this year''s school starts in 6 months. If you could activate your Mystic Soul Sea and have elemental affinity, then the Academy will accept you as a student." Helthor explained.


    "That''s great! I should study there and strengthen myself. Perhaps, I''ll recover my memory once I get stronger." he exclaimed. Of course, he wanted to recover his body''s original owner''s memory. The mission from that guys was too troublesome, so he needed more information.


    ?Ding!Third Mission "Gather basic information about the world and its cultivation system." completed. 10 TsP acquired.?


    ''Good! Another TsP.''


    Gyro then mentally asked Trii about the Mystic Affinity.


    ?Sorry Host, you have no Messence for me to analyze. Hurry up and find a Meditation Arts and start accumulating Messence.? Trii''s smirking voice irritated him.


    Yet another dead end. He resigned.


    ''Hmm? Hey Trii, what''s with this system evaluation, I am a weak trickster?'' he grunted at the thought of being insulted by the system.


    ?There''s no mistake with the evaluation. Host only knows two basic tricks after 2 months of being reborn and increased brain efficiency.? Trii''s cold voice was as sharp as a dagger stuck into his heart.


    ''Damn! I''m actually being insulted by a system¡ªagain.''


    ?Ding! New Mission Created: Successfully enter Ziroth Academy. Reward- 50 TsP. Accept??


    ''New Mission? Hmmm... Accept! Only a fool won''t.''


    Then a thought came into his mind¡ªit was dazzling and brilliant. He slyly grinned.


    ''By the way Trii, I have 145 TsP now. Can I use them to increase my attributes and Messence.''


    ?Yes! 1 AP = 100 TsP and 1 Messence = 10 TsP.?


    ''What?! Are you trying to rip me off? Tsk! Why are they so expensive?''


    ?Host just need to work hard and earn more TsP.? Trii didn''t directly answer his question.


    Not minding the spirit''s comment, he suddenly exclaimed in his mind. ''Success! Hah!'' he grinned inwardly.


    Just as Gyro was admiring his folly,Helthorraised his hand as a warning gesture.


    ''Everyone! Stop your carriages; there''s an ambush ahead!''Helthor''s voice was infused bymessenceso his warning reverberated in the ears of everyone in their convoy. He had skillfully controlled his voice so as not to alarm their waiting assailants.


    As they heard the warning in time, the village fighters swiftly formed their defensive formations.


    Swoosh! Swoosh! Ting! Ting!


    Arrows flew and rained on the villagers.


    "Bandits! Bandits! Everyone, look out!"Someone outside the carriage shouted a warning.


    ?Ding! New Mission: Survive the bandits'' raid. Accept??

 Chapter 4 First Victory

    Chapter 4 First Victory


    DespiteHelthor''s admonishment, Gyro was still alarmed by the frantic shout of their coachman.


    Ting! Ting! Ting!


    Multiple arrows rained on their carriage.


    "Get out!Zy, Gyro, hide behind the carriage. Don''t reveal yourselves unless the fight has ended."Helthorwarned. He didn''t want the kids to be trapped inside the carriage.


    Helthorsighed as he had been too careless and overconfident. In fact, he had noticed theirambushersmiles away, but he didn''t mind them as their strength was too low for him to act. He didn''t consider the villagers'' strength because he was engrossed with his explanation about the world.Moreover, he didn''t want to alarm the mastermind behind this ambush.


    Too late now.


    They scrambled out of the carriage.


    Gyro trembled as he saw several people lying on the ground with arrows sprouting on their bodies. It was his first time seeing death. Blood and gore were everywhere giving him a nauseating feeling.


    He felt like the world was spinning as vertigo overtook. Sweats flowed down his eye blurring his vision. He didn''t want to witness such terrifying sight. This scene¡ªhe had only watched them on Earth''s movies.


    Fifty meters away, he saw around50 people grinning maliciously. Reflecting from their eyes was undisguised greed.


    "Listen up, we only want your money. If you''re smart enough, quickly hand them to us, then we''ll be on our way. Do that for a peaceful transaction... Only if you don''t want to add bodies on the ground. Hahaha!" A man wielding a heavy sword hollered with a threatening gaze.


    Gyro''s group went silent. They only had 10 fighters. Clearly, numbers weren''t in their favor, should they decide to fight.


    "Everyone... They are clearly bandits, but I think robbery isn''t their purpose here. They aimed to kill, if not, they would just send warning arrows earlier. Be careful, they''re playing mind games with us." Helthor prevised.


    "Yes, my thought as well. What should we do then? These people are dangerous. They''ll kill us without hesitation." Gillard, the man whom Gyro saw training the kids in the village spoke.


    "Assemble into a formation; we should prevent their Archers from sniping us at a distance." Helthor took the lead.


    "Right, everyone stays calm. We''ll get through this. On your positions." Gillard assured. He then turned to one man, "Bren, help me retrieve the wooden shields on the carriage." The two moved in a flash.


    "Oh?! So that''s your answer, huh?" The bandit leader raised his hand signaling his men to attack.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    A shower of arrows rained on the village fighters, but their formation held. Fortunately, the archers weren''t mysticians, so their attacks weren''t reinforced by Messence.


    Some bandits, though, were clearly Iron Novice Mysticians as their weapons were coated with faint Messence. Fortunately, the village fighters had mysticians as well.


    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Helthor suddenly released terrifying arrows targeting the archers 50 meters away. His longbow glowed with gray Mystic Wind messence.Five arrows claimed the lives offive archers.


    "Damn! Full attack!" The bandit leader barked. His long black hair billowed as he sprinted forward.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The simultaneous explosion rang out. The adversaries'' weapons clashed with a deafening crack.


    More bloodied bodies slumped on the ground.


    Gyro''s heart quickened as he witnessed such horror. ''What kind of world did I fall into?'' He heard his heart''s increasing beat.


    Badump! Badump! Badump!


    He felt like horses were racing inside his heart.


    "It''s okay Gy, don''t be nervous. Father will take care of these people." Zyra''sreassuring voice sounded beside him.


    "Really? Uncle¡ªis powerful, right?" He asked in between his trembling lips.


    "Of course, just watch." Her proud voice somehow lifted his confidence.


    "Hahaha! So you little mouses are hiding here..." The sudden voice from behind startled the duo.


    They froze for a second. Wheeling around they saw a man deftly playing with a dagger, and was staring at them with preying eyes. The deadly dagger was emanating with blue messence energy which vibrated with ominous intent.


    "Hahaha! Look at your faces. I really enjoy seeing that kind of face from my preys before their death." The man''s manic laughter escalated their fear.


    They stepped back, trying to distance themselves from the crazy man.


    "Tch! Do you think you can escape from me... Don''t even think about it." The man suddenly bolted towards them like a cheetah.


    "Go Zy, escape towards Uncle Helthor. I''ll cover for you." Gyro said, trembling. He didn''t know why, but he just wanted to protect this kindhearted girl. Perhaps, he just wanted to repay their kindness.


    "But... But..." Zyra''s panicking voice was like a whisper.


    "Go, now! And thank you for everything..." He pushed the girl away.


    The man was only 8 meters away from him.


    Gyro felt the pressure. He was really unwilling to die¡ªagain. But reality seemed harsh.


    *Sigh*


    ''So, I''m gonna die again. I''m sorry Mom, Dad... I can''t fulfill my promise.''


    However, in the last seconds of his new life, he remembered the one thing which could probably help him. A sliver of hope sprouted in his heart¡ªa miracle which could hopefully help him.


    ''Trii... Can you help me here? Can you tell me this man''s weakness?'' He frantically asked the system''s spirit.


    ?Host, that''s 5 TsP.? Trii''s unconcerned voice echoed in his head.


    ''Huh? You can really help me? Do it now!'' He would curse this heartless spirit if he wasn''t in a pinched at the moment.


    ?Ding! Deducting 5 TsP. Evaluating the enemy''s weak points...?


    ?Host, this enemy tends to put his weight more in his right foot. He had suffered injuries in his left foot, so his body weight distribution is not balanced. Showing the exact spot of the injury...?


    Right after Trii''s explanation, a 3D image of the man appeared in Gyro''s mind. He saw the man''s left foot displayed in red indicating his injury.


    He didn''t celebrate his discovery as death was about to kiss him goodbye. Retrieving his wooden Yo-yo from his pocket, he quickly inserted his right hand''s middle finger in the end loop of its string. He closed his eyes for a moment, imagining himself executing his trick. Calculating its speed, trajectory and the strength of his wrist. His brain seemed to calculate everything at a blistering pace. Opening his eyes, he stared at the man with renewed confidence. ''Survive!''Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    Gyro took aquick breath and swung his arm forward, releasing the swirling Yo-yo towards his target. It seemed to create air friction, whistling as it spins at blistering speed.


    Swoosh!


    The man, on the other hand, wasn''t paying attention to the boy''s action. He was full of confidence. His speed seemed to increase as he drew close. He grinned, brandishing his dagger and aimed for his prey''s neck, imagining the sweet, simple kill.


    However, just as he was savoring the euphoric feeling brought by his supposedly easy kill...


    Pak!


    Something hit his left foot.


    Argh!


    He growled and winced in pain. His injury flared up as he lost his balance.


    The surprise attack sent him stumbling head first, straight to the wheel of the carriage behind Gyro.


    With his reflexes, Gyrolurched to the side, dodging the man who couldn''t his momentum.


    Crash!


    The impact sent a jolt of pain tothe man''s brain, resulting in a trauma. He trembled for a few seconds then lay still¡ªknocked out cold.


    ?Ding! Congratulations Host for successfully executing the Middle-Level Trick, Shooting Star Break Away for the first time. Reward: 10 TsP.?


    ''Hah! Under such pressure, I actually managed to execute this trick.'' He was trying so hard to execute this trick for weeks, but it was just too hard. HisWILL to survive, however, helped him execute it for the first time.


    Lucky... His minor victory should have left him leaping for joy, but he didn''t want to celebrate... He didn''t want to rely on luck to keep his life... Practicing hard and strengthening himself were the surest way to survive in this brutal world.


    The trick was just an ordinary attack as he hadn''t accumulated messence yet. Still, it was enough to disrupt the man''s balance.


    ?Ding! Congratulations Host for successfully defeating an Iron Novice Mystician. Reward: 10 TsP.?


    ''Thank you, Trii.'' He gratefully thanked his mind''s companion.


    ?...? Trii was speechless. It was the first time her Host had thanked her. She didn''t know how to respond, so she kept her silence.


    Gyro''s short fight against the Novice Iron Rank Mystician was witnessed by Zyra and Helthor from afar. They were gaping in shock at what had transpired. Gyro''s unique weapon also left them in awe and admiration. It wasn''t a flashy fight but Gyro''s quick wit earned him respects from the duo.


    Helthor didn''t think about it for too long as the enemies were relentless in their attacks. He brought out his large hammer which towered over half of his 6 feet frame. As a Mystic Forger, he was familiar with a hammer, so it was his main weapon.


    Boom!


    His attack created a shockwave blasting away their enemies.


    Even the bandit leader staggered for a few meters. He was a bronze rank Junior Mystician, yet the man with the hammer easily sent him away. He knew they were in a pinch. Their intelligence went awry¡ªthey were set up.


    The bandit leader was cursing the man who contacted them with this mission. Not only did the man give them false information, but he also failed to show up while they were fighting as they initially planned.


    "Retreat!" He commanded. He was a decisive man. Witnessing Helthor''s prowess, they would only be waiting for death if they stayed longer.


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Hearing their leader, the surviving bandits scampered away like terrified puppies.


    The village fighters didn''t pursue. They were tired and wounded.


    "Everyone, retreat 500 meters away. Hide behind that boulder. Now!" Helthor commanded.


    Everyone was puzzled at his words. Why? Didn''t the bandits have already retreated? But they didn''t tarry. The Forger they knew for ten years had disappeared, replaced by this mysterious man.


    Confirming everyone had retreated and hidden safely, Helthor peered through the distance and calmly said, "Reveal yourself! I already know you''re here since the fight started."


    "Hahaha! As expected from you, your Majesty. Or should I say, fallen King?" A mocking laughter reverberated.


    Helthor Juett was the former king of Belford Kingdom. It was one of 30 kingdoms in the ECon under the sovereignty of the mighty Soaring Sun Empire which ruled the continent.


    Ten years ago, he was betrayed by his adopted brother whom he had trusted. His kingdom was wrestled away, and his wife, the Queen was taken hostage while he escaped with his then five-year-old daughter, Zyra.


    "Hmm... So it''s you Beldrex. Did my traitor adopted brother sent you after me?" Helthor asked, raising his brow.


    "Hahaha. Who else other than His Majesty could command me? After ten years... we finally caught wind of your location. You won''t be able to escape this time. And I will be bringing the princess back. Her Majesty missed her a lot."


    "Is she okay?" Helthor had been worried about his wife''s condition since he left with Zyra.


    "Okay? Perhaps... She was too stubborn, though. If not for her hope that the princess would return someday, she could have committed suicide already. Damn! I can''t understand why she would choose death over His Majesty."


    "Hahaha! At least she is still alive. She must be waiting for us... Someday, I''ll take back what''s mine." Helthor thundered.


    "Hmp! With just you? You must be dreaming. Ten years had passed and you haven''t improved a bit. Just to tell you, I''d reached Diamond Master Mystician three years ago. I''d fought against you evenly when I was still a Gold Master Mystician, but now that I have level up, you don''t have a chance anymore. Hmp!" Beldrex boasted, puffing out his chest.


    "So what if you leveled up? Fight if we must, but even if I die, I will never let you take Zyra back to that traitor. Hmp!" Helthor''s grasp on his heavy hammer tightened.


    He circulated his Mystic Wind elemental messence, graying his Heavy Hammer with it. As he did so, the surrounding foliage floated in the air, circulating around him.


    Meanwhile, Beldrex didn''t just watch as Helthor activated his energy. He too did the same.


    The surrounding air sizzled, stem rose as the water moisture in the air evaporated due to the sudden increase in temperature. Beldrex was momentarily covered by water mist.


    When everything cleared, Beldrex was revealed, enveloped by crimson red Mystic Fire elemental messence. There were five concentric crimson red rings twirling over his head indicating his level. Beldrex then drew out a long sword, coated it with his messence and brandished it like he would incinerate everything across his path.


    Both adversaries suddenly floated up, propelled by the white concentric energy below their feet. A Mystic Hover Disk was a flying messence energy Art any mystician would know upon reaching Bronze Junior Master level.


    Boom!


    While in mid-air, they simultaneously attacked. Mystic Wind Art against Mystic Fire Art. Their elemental affinities were the reason Beldrex was able to fight against Helthor despite being at a lower level in the past. If the Mystic Wind attack wasn''t strong enough to extinguish the Mystic Fire messence, it would rather aide the Mystic Fire attacks, increasing its damage.


    Space cracked as the two Arts collided, revealing a black void for a moment.


    "Hahaha! I told you¡ªyou won''t be able to defeat me with your level." Beldrex boomed in satisfaction.


    He then executed another Fire Slicing Blade, cutting through space between them with sizzling intent.


    Zizizizi...


    Bang!


    Another collision. The fire wasn''t able to break through the wind barrier from Helthor''s hammer.


    "What?! How could you block that?" Beldrex was dumbfounded. His Arts shouldn''t have been blocked easily. "How is this possible?!" He froze. A bad premonition warned him of the impending danger.


    Helthor, on the other hand, flicked his robe, then the surrounding space warped as he vanished.


    Bang!


    Helthor''s heavy hammer slammed at Beldrex''s back, smashing his messence barrier. It was already too late for Beldrex to block the lightning fast attack. Helthor''s Mystic Wind elemental messence boosted his dexterity, so his heavy hammer didn''t affect his movement at all.


    Bang!


    Beldrex plummeted to the ground, shooting like a falling star and created a meter deep hole.


    Argh! Cough! Cough!


    Beldrex spat blood. His internal organs were bleeding.


    Argh!


    He groaned in pain, managing to climb up the hole.


    "You! S¡ªSix Mystical rings... You''re already a Platinum Grand Master!" He blinked, gazing in disbelief at the six gray concentric rings swirling over Helthor''s head. Helthor had appeared behind him in a blink earlier. Teleportation... And only a Grand Master could teleport. He was actually boasting his level to a Grand Master earlier... How funny was that?


    "Any last words? I told you, I will reclaim what''s mine soon. Do you think, I would waste away ten years doing nothing?" Helthor calmly said.


    "So what if you''re a Grand Master? Sooner or later His Majesty would level up as well. Your plan of revenge will just turn to waste. Hahaha!" Beldrex knew he would die here. In front of a Grand Master, he would be like an ant.


    "Hmm? Do you think I don''t have loyal subordinates in the kingdom? They are just waiting for my return." Helthor uttered, executing his Art.


    Bang!


    Beldrex''s messence barrier broke like glass as Helthor smashed his head. It exploded into bloody mist leaving only a headless body.


    *Sigh*


    "Hopefully, he hadn''t reported our location yet." Helthor murmured. They needed to be careful. He then manifested a Wind Blade and slashed the ground creating a 6 feet deep crevice, then pushed Beldrex remains into it.


    Five hundred meters away, the villagers were gaping in shock as they witnessed such a high-level battle. The shockwave produced by the Arts collision had pushed the boulder they were hiding 2 feet away from its initial position.


    Dumbfounded, Gyro suddenly felt chills down his spine. The devastating strength unleashed by the duo shattered his belief of this world''s Mystical Powers. He stood in a daze, replaying the scene in his mind.


    "Everyone let''s go. We have a long way towards the city." Helthor shouted, waking the villagers out of their reverie.

 Chapter 5 Messence Elemental Affinity

    Chapter 5 Messence Elemental Affinity


    The group resumed their journey towards the city on foot. All of their horses had been killed during the attack and some carriages were destroyed by the devastating battle between Helthor and Beldrex.


    "Uncle, what is that ring? You seem cautious while playing with it." Gyro inquired. He curiously gazed at the golden ring with crimson jewel crown that Helthor kept on playing with his fingers.


    "Ahh... This¡ªis the Telemystic Ring left by my opponent earlier. This¡ªallows Mysticians to send messages over long distances." Helthor introduced.


    "Woah! There''s an item like that? How does it work?" He marveled at the ring, thinking of the cellular wireless technology in his home world.


    "Well, it''s simple. Every Mystician has a unique Messence signature. The owner of the ring can ask anyone to imprint their signature into it, so he could send any messages using that unique signature. This white jewel crown on the ring is called Telemystic jewel which can record those signatures." Helthor explained.


    "Eh? Then, anyone could use other''s ring? Surely, there''s some kind of security in it right?"


    "Of course... Upon binding, no one other than the owner would be able to use it. Unless you know how the ring was crafted and unseal the binding." He grinned mysteriously. As a Grand Master Mystic Forger, Helthor was one of the few who could do so. He caressed the ring; it could help them lose their trail.


    After unsealing the binding in the ring, Helthor then sent a cryptic message to someone.


    ?Missed the fallen king... Pursuing to the Eastern Kingdoms.?


    He grinned after sending the message. They were currently at the south of the continent while the Belford Kingdom was at the north.


    Meanwhile, Gyro checked the system log. He had heard a notification earlier.


    ?Congratulations Host for completing the mission: Survive the Bandits'' Raid. Reward: 20 TsP.?


    ''Oh Great! Now, I have 175 TsP. Hmm... I can''t wait for the affinity test...'' His elemental affinity had been disturbing his mindset, so he must know it as soon as possible.


    ''Trii, how much Messence do you require to analyze my elemental affinity?''


    ?I just need at least 1 Messence.? Came Trii''s cold reply.


    ''Okay then, please convert 10 TsP and analyze my elemental affinity.'' He blinked faster than normal, expecting compatibility with Mystic Wind.


    ?Converting 10 TsP to Messence... Successful... Analyzing Host Mystic Elemental affinity...?


    ?Ding! Congratulations Host, you have great compatibility with Mystic Lightning. Host''s status updated.?


    ''Great! Hahaha!'' He was ecstatic to know his element and was satisfied with it. Lightning perfectly fit his style, which leaned more on dexterity, speed, and great hand-eye coordination. His affinity would supplement those aspects.


    He was hoping to acquire the Mystic Wind Element, guessing that Speedy Mysticians was most compatible with it, but Mystic Lightning was even better. Not only would it boost his dexterity and speed, but its attack damage would also be on a different level.


    Of course, all these were speculations. He had read a lot of cultivation novels and played several virtual games on Earth depicting these similar elements. Asking Trii about it would require him to spend some of his all-valuable TsP; so he should investigate each element in the future instead of relying on the system''s spirit.


    He glanced at his status to confirm his new Realm. Sure enough, he became a Lightning Novix. He only needed to gather Messence to level up to Iron Novice Mystician.


    *Sigh*


    ''I need to find a Mystic Meditation Art sooner to start gathering Messence.''


    ''Trii, could you explain why my Middle-Level Trick was only at an early stage?''


    ?Of course, Host. Trick Level has four stages: early, mid, high, and perfect.?


    ''Oh?! You didn''t ask for TsP for the info, huh?'' He was surprised he wasn''t charged with TsP.


    ?All info relevant to the system will be freely given. The Host just needs to ask the right question.?


    ''So, that''s how it is.'' He could now see the pattern. He didn''t have to spend TSP to learn all system-related information like functions, stats, inventory and others.


    After asking Trii, he reviewed his tricks. The basic trick Gravity Pull was already at the perfect stage; the Throw Down basic trick was at 90/100 high stage. Guessing from these numbers, he wouldn''t be able to learn the middle or advance tricks unless he mastered the basics. The only exception was the Middle-Level Trick which he won from Trick Spin.


    Previously, he found the Trick Tree in the system. Trii explained that those tricks were personally created by the God who had brought him in this Mistikahl world. Of course, he could create his own trick or follow those Trick Tree in the system.


    As he browsed through the Tree, only Gravity Pull, Throw Down and Shooting Star Break Away were greened. The rests were grayed, indicating he had yet to learn them. He shook his head in frustration. He couldn''t learn most of the tricks because his Yo-yo was too primitive¡ªthe most basic one. Gyro couldn''t even perform the basic Sleeper Trick.


    He decided to spend 10 TsP and upgrade the Throw Down Trick, promoting it to perfect stage. As he walked following the group, he performed the Trick.


    Swoosh!


    Tst!


    Sure enough, he was thrilled to see an improvement on the Trick. The Yo-yo rotated faster and its downward speed increased by a notch. Flicking his wrist before it reaches its unwinding, recalled the Yo-yo with a swirling screech against his palm. He was exhilarated seeing that. He had no practical uses for this trick, but it was one of the basics, so he had to learn it.


    Then, he decided to tackle another basic trick, the Forward Pass. It was, in a sense similar to his Middle-Level Trick, but it would start at the side of his body rather than at the front.


    Their group could finally see the silhouette of the City after two days of marching the almost desolate road. Fortunately, they didn''t encounter more inconvenience aside from sleeping in the open.


    As they approached the majestic city, Gyro saw countless people parading towards the City Gate. Some were in a group while others trod towards it alone, dragging their weary body, probably due to the long journey they had taken. He also noticed merchants with their wagons lined up, waiting for their cue to deliver whatever business they had.


    Their group also followed the line. It was only then that Gyro noticed several teenagers around his age with expectant eyes. He guessed that these youths were also aiming for the upcoming Mystician test.


    Up above the archway of the city gate, painted in glowing tuscan-sun letters, was the name of this majestic city: Zelleor City.


    It was one of the 25 cities in the Aventhor Kingdom.


    Glancing up further on the bone-white city walls, Gyro sighted rows of archers slinging their long bows with their sharp and vigilant eyes, surveying the mass of people flooding the city.


    He then scrutinized the guards at the gate. Five guards had swords and the other five wielded spears. All of them were emanating mysterious auras. He was guessing these guards were all mysticians.


    Gyro was suddenly interrupted by one of the guard''s voice.


    It was their cue.


    "Fifteen Mis for the three of you." The guard in-charge intoned in a smooth yet snappy voice.


    Gyro could hear a well-practiced speech, guessing the guard had been doing it for a long time. He then saw Helthor took out his purse and counted 15 shiny silver coins. Seeing his curious gaze, Zyra whispered, "Mis is Mistikahl World''s currency¡ªnamed after it."


    After paying the entrance fee, which could have feed an average family for three days, they followed the rests of villagers to a small, cheap hotel in the outer section of the city.


    The Zelleor City was divided into three sections: outer, inner and central section.


    The outer section was where the lowest rung of the society lived. It was commonly known as the "SLUM" where all sorts of people clustered. People who lived by the edge of their knives and momentary pleasure of the flesh. People who lived in the shadow; people who took every opportunity for their shady business; and people considered as dregs of society.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Beggars could be seen at every corner, and hookers could be heard whistling at every possible client.


    Gyro felt his stomach lurched. He almost vomited at the rotten smell of decay wafting through the air contaminating everything. He couldn''t help but wonder if, in any world, poverty was the number one problem plaguing the society of men.


    Gyro breathed a sigh of relief when they entered the hotel they would be staying in. Somehow, despite its ordinary and cheap appearance, the hotel had a fresh atmosphere preventing whatever unwanted things outside to slip in. Then he perceived the glowing crystals on the walls which illuminated the hotel. ''Ah! Mystician...''


    Of course, even a cheap hotel could hire some Mystician to ward their territory of "Everything" unwanted.


    "Each person, one Mis per night. Additional 1 Mis per meal if you want to dine in." Nydelein, the fat female hotel Manager and owner, informed the group. She was wearing a chef''s garment, so Gyro guessed that she was also the hotel''s Chef.


    Helthor smiled and handed 9 Mis to the Manager. "We''ll be staying for two days, and we would like to have breakfast on the morrow."


    Gillard and the other villagers followed and paid for their rooms.


    The Manager snatched the coins on the desk which seemed to magically disappeared right after. "Bart!" She hollered.


    Clang... Clang...


    The cacophony of dropping silverware reverberated from the kitchen, then scurrying footsteps echoed.


    Bang!


    A skinny boy stumbled on the kitchen door as it swung with a thud. He didn''t it mind, though. Shooting up as if nothing happened, the boy bowed to the Manager with a smile. "Madam, what''s your command for your lowly slave?" The boy enthusiastically asked, grinning.


    "Damn you, brat. How many times¡ªdo I need to tell you that you can''t call yourself a slave? Want me to kick you a** again?" Nydelein glared.


    "Hahaha... But I am your slave you know." The boy Bart reasoned.


    "Guests don''t mind this brat. He likes spouting nonsense every time. I found him in the streets¡ªstarving, a few years ago. Since then, I took care of him, and he helped me here in the hotel. He didn''t have a memory of what happened to him, though. Sigh... He must have suffered a lot to have lost his memory." The Nydelein gazed at the Bart gently.


    "Oh! It''s okay. Gy here lost his memory too. They could have the same experienced. It must be the fate for them to meet. Hahaha." Helthor cackled.


    "Oh really? You heard that Bart; you should be friends with this little gentleman here." She resumed her commanding tone.


    "Sure... Sure... Hello! Call me Bart the Brat. Let''s be friends. Hahaha." Bart grinned extending his hand towards Gyro who clasped it bashfully, muttering "Gyro" in a timid tone.


    Gyro still had a hard time when dealing with other people except for Helthor and Zyra. His old personality always took a hold of him.


    "Gy has a shy personality, so please bear with him," Zyra spoke in Gyro''s behalf.


    "That''s good, I like shy people. Hahaha." Bart exclaimed. His warm personality seemed to have affected everyone''s mood.


    "Alright, that''s enough fooling around. Go, bring our guest to their rooms."


    "Gaddy got''it! Let''s go! Everyone please follow me towards your palace chambers. Hahaha." Bart''s energetic high pitch voice echoed.


    "Hahaha! I like this kid." Helthor chuckled, following the hopping boy.


    "Really? I like you too My Lord." Bart swerved and grinned at Helthor.


    "Hahaha. It seems we need your bubbly attitude to lighten up the mood. These kids are nervous about the upcoming test." Gillard, the man from the village commented.


    Aside from Gyro and Zyra, ten other kids came with them for the test.


    "Oh, you mean the Ziroth Academy Mystician''s test in two days?" Bart naturally knew about the test. It was the topic of every kid in the Slum these days. Even Aunt Nydelein had been nagging him to take the test and see if he was fated to be a Mystician.


    He wasn''t considering it, though. As he knew, those Mysticians were brutal and bloodthirsty. He reasoned that if the price for gaining strength was him becoming a killing machine, then he would rather live as an ordinary human.


    Bart was a smart kid, and he had speculations that his amnesia might have been caused by the same people Aunt Nydelein prompting him to be. Hence, he didn''t want them to find him again and maybe kill him¡ªfor good.


    "Yeah! That one." Gillard answered.


    "It has been the talk of the city. I don''t understand why people are going crazy about it. Clearly, those Mysticians are..." He didn''t finish his words.


    "Hmm? You seem to have a bad impression of them, Bart? You can''t be blamed, though. There are black sheep in the flock as well. Well, everyone has reasons for trying to become one. Say, for example, Gyro here... He had lost his memory and believes that by becoming strong he could recover it... and finally, remember what had happened to him or what circumstances he fell into in the past." Helthor explained.


    For the first time, Bart went silent. He was mulling over Helthor''s word. ''Remembering the past!'' He had been deftly avoiding this topic. His reasoning was simple: he couldn''t live with the past. A lot of good things would be waiting for him in the future; he should shape himself in the present and prepare to embrace the future as they unfold before him¡ªgradually.


    On the contrary, the past had been a part of his short life. ''Or perhaps, to successfully move forward, I wouldneed to peer through the distant past?'' Bart shook his head, clearing his mind as they stopped in front of a door.


    "Alright, for those with key number 5, here''s your stop." He pointed on the door, then said, "Let''s continue..."


    Bart returned to the kitchen after ushering the guest. He was absentminded, not knowing that he had returned in front of the sink. It was only until his hand felt the cold water that he snapped out of his reverie. ''Revisit the past?'' He sighed.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    The next day, Gyro awoke with a start. The warm sunlight refracted in the glass window of his hotel room, kissing his pale skin. He just had a bad dream. The brutal scenes of their battle against the bandits had become a nightmare.


    He scrambled down the hotel and asked for clean water to clean himself. Then, he waited for the rests to come down and have breakfast. They had free time to explore the city because the test wouldn''t start till the morrow. He had a clear destination, though. The city public library.


    Being new to this world, he was like a hungry cub, starving, thirsting and craving¡ªfor knowledge.


    "Gy, are you sure you want to go to the library alone? I can accompany you there if you want." Zyra asked with concern.


    "I''m okay Zy, thanks. I know you have something to do as well... I will do this sooner or later so I better start now." He smiled.


    "Hmm... You seem to be adapting well. Good luck then." She waved her hand.


    They had separated in the inner section central plaza. It was a circular plaza with a huge monument of a man holding a saber. According to the description on the monument, he was Dozulav Zelleor. The former Emperor of Aventhor Empire hailed from this city of Zelleor. Later, the city was named after him.


    He strolled towards the direction of the Library. He had previously asked the hotel owner Nydelein about it. ''It''s time to learn more about this world.''

 Chapter 6 The Crimson Theory

    Chapter 6 The Crimson Theory


    Gyro came to an abrupt stop in front of an old baroque like structure. It had closed transparent symmetrical windows and a wide archway around 5 meters wide, over it hung Gothic words:


    | Cixty Lixbravry |


    ¡°City Library.¡± He muttered.


    Upon entering the building, he felt solemn. Silence overshadowed everything around the place. On the walls of the hallway, he saw the familiar orbs of light illuminating the building. Then, he found two doors. The one on the right side, according to Aunt Nydelein was reserved for Mysticians; and on the left was for ordinary people or Myuls and Novix.


    Gyro didn''t linger in the hallway and entered the door at his left. He was welcomed by a scholarly old man wearing dark gray robe and half moon spectacle.


    ¡°It''s nice to see a young man who has interest in books these days. It''s been a long time since one has come here.¡± The old man commented as Gyro approached. ¡°Come, kid. The mysteries of the world lie in these tomes and books. What is it you wished to explore?¡± Asked the old man.


    ¡°I''m... Sir, Good day... I ¡ª I wish to know more about the world. Could you point me to the right direction?¡± He stuttered, clearly struggling. His timid personality caught up to him again.


    ¡°Hahaha. You don''t have to be nervous kid... About the world, huh? That''s a broad topic... If you wanted to know about the world, you might be disappointed coming here...¡± The old man said.


    Seeing Gyro''s disappointment, the old man smiled and continued, ¡°But we do have books about our Kingdom. Perhaps it could help you? The books about the world¡ªyou could only find a few of those in the Empire''s Capital. Or when you have a chance to travel to CeCon in the future.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± He understood that he was in a backwater place. ¡°Do you have anything about Mysticians, Sir?¡± Gyro queried.


    ¡°Hmm... Few of the basics. Perhaps you already know them... But you could always read as you like... Since I like your attitude, I will not charge you today, alright? Feel free to read anything you like here.¡± The old man chuckled. Normally, reading for fours in the library cost 1 Mis and Gyro only had two Mis given by Helthor earlier.


    ¡°Th-thank you, Sir.¡± Gyro replied in gratitude.


    ¡°No problem... There! M-102 and S-23. You might find what you''re looking in those sections.¡± The old man pointed to the series of shelves with scrolls and tomes neatly arranged.


    Gyro nodded and minced towards those sections. After reaching it, he randomly picked a book and began reading. True to what the old man said, the books recorded details about the Kingdom of Aventhor.


    He found a few biographies and old research papers of scholars and Mysticians but there was nothing interesting about them. He skimmed a few history books here and there.


    One research paper caught his attention as the Gold Master Mystician who wrote it had mentioned a fascinating word several times, the Crimson Theory. To Gyro''s dismay, the author didn''t explain any details about it, though. However, the way the author wrote about it was intriguing. In one section, the author wrote, ¡°Strength Surpassing Human Limits.¡±


    ¡®Strength beyond human limits!¡¯ Gyro kept on repeating in his head. As he didn''t find any details about the Crimson Theory, he continued skimming over other books. Fortunately, he had Trii in his mind, so everything he read was automatically stored in the Trick System''s Library.


    Eight hours passed just like that. Gyro didn''t want to be caught by the night before returning to the hotel, so he thanked and said goodbye to the old man.


    ¡°Go home safely kid. Just visit here if you have some time in the future. It''s quite difficult to find a youth who is interested in reading these days.¡± The old man smiled.


    ¡°Okay, Sir... I''ll visit some other time. Bye!¡± Gyro liked the kind old man. Somehow he made him felt welcomed and appreciated.


    As he passed by the central monument again, Gyro was surprised to see Zyra and Helthor waiting for him. He couldn''t help but feel warm in his heart. The duo was really concerned about him.


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    ¡°Hello Uncle Helthor, Zy!¡±


    ¡°Gy, how''s your trip to, the library?¡± Zyra asked.


    ¡°It''s great! The librarian was really helpful and a kind man.¡± He answered.


    ¡°That''s good... I reckon you had read a lot.¡± Zy said.


    ¡°Yeah! I did, ¡± he grinned. ¡°How about you?¡±


    ¡°Great! I found a few rare alchemy ingredients.¡± She displayed a broad smile. Zyra was obsessed with Mystic Alchemy despite not knowing if she could become a Mystician. She just studied everything about the subject even if she couldn''t brew potions or refine a pill yet.


    ¡°Well, that''s great... Oh, I found an intriguing note from one of the research earlier... Ever heard of Crimson Theory?¡± He inquired.


    ¡°Crimson Theory? Hmm... Never heard of it...¡± She shook her head. Even Helthor who was walking beside them never heard of it.


    Gyro sighed in disappointment. ¡®What in the abyssal hell was that actually?¡¯


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    The following day, the villagers rose early and jammed the hotel lounge. The kids had unsettled faces reflecting their nervousness.


    Gyro sat at a corner as they waited for Zyra who had overslept. As he kept his silence, Gyro heard the hotel Owner Nydelein was having a lengthy conversation with Bart.


    ¡°You should follow them to the test Bart. It''s your only chance... Next year, you would be more than sixteen years old and will be ineligible to take the exam even if you wanted to.¡± Aunt Nydelein persuaded the young man.


    ¡°But I like it here and I don''t want to leave you alone.¡± Bart reasoned.


    ¡°No... You should go. I''ve been alone for a long time and got used to it already, so you don''t have to worry.¡± She caressed the young man''s face.


    ¡°I don''t want to go.¡± He protested, shaking his head but somewhere in his mind, a voice seemed to prompt him to go.


    ¡°Everyone leaves eventually, Bart. I imagine you''ll be leaving soon.¡± She patted him on the shoulder while staring straight into his glistening emerald eyes.


    Tears began to swell on Bart''s eye. He was registering everything hard. Somehow he nodded then hugged the only family he had.


    ¡°Shh... That''s enough, stop being a cry baby. It isn''t you.¡± She chuckled, teasing the usually bubbly kid.


    ¡°Alright... I''ll go with them... It seems you can''t wait for me to go.¡± He glared unhappily.


    ¡°You brat! It''s just a test... The school semester will start in six months, so even if you passed the test, I''ll still have a handfull of your antics before that.¡±


    Hearing that, Bart grinned and stuck out his tongue.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    Gyro''s group arrived at the central section of the city and proceeded straight towards the colossal dome shape coliseum that could house around 30 thousand people. Gray bricks had been stack to form a massive wall and an eight meters wide archway. Hung above the archway was Mystral words in tuscan-sun letters ¡°Zewllewoyr Coylixsewuzm¡± which Gyro translated to Zelleor Coliseum.


    Gyro''s head swerved left and right surveying the core section of the city. Unlike the damp, chaotic and dirty slum, the central section reflected order, cleanliness and grandeur.


    Like the majestic coliseum, he saw rows of large structures and luxurious residence of nobles and rich businessmen who stood high above the rung of the society.


    Across the coliseum Gyro saw another monstrous structure with a bright red Mystral words at the front.


    |MYSTIXCIXAVN GUZIXLD|


    As if Helthor could read Gyro''s expression, he pointed to the structure saying, ¡°That''s the Mystician Guild branch in Zelleor City. The Guild manages everything about Mysticians. They also give missions and rewards.¡±


    Gyro nodded in recognition and silently followed the group.

 Chapter 7 The Test

    Chapter 7 The Test


    Gyro''s group followed the youths flooding the coliseum with a mixture of excitement and nervousness on their faces. The coliseum''s interior was wide with cascading seats that hung up to what Gyro estimated around 30 meters.


    They found vacant seats on the 5th layer of the stand. After settling down, Gyro noticed the central platform below with ten youths standing with vigilant eyes. They were wearing flint-silver robes with black helix insignia of Ziroth Academy of Mystical Arts on the left chest. On their right shoulders were either 2 or 3 black stripes.


    In front of these youths were an old man and a middle-aged man wearing heather-violet robes. They sat on a simple yet ancient wooden chairs. Both men were emanating a bizarre aura as they watched people occupying the coliseum seats.


    Surrounding the platform was a wide but empty granite floor drawn with characters or symbols which Gyro didn''t recognize.


    After an hour, Gyro saw the middle-aged man stood and scanned everyone when most seats in the coliseum had been occupied and people stopped coming in. ¡°It''s time! Everyone, I welcome all of you to the annual recruitment examination of Ziroth Academy of Mystical Art. My name is Xylar Traum, a professor of Mystician Relation and Conduct. Behind me is Professor Royle Mohre, the Vice Principal of the Academy.


    This is 20th City where we conduct recruitment. We''re hoping to see more of you pass the test and join us as new students of the Academy.¡± Professor Xylar''s speech was warm and welcoming. His smile was infectious reflecting his charm. He had a square face and sharp jawline; and a clear, protruding green eyes.


    ¡°Those with numbers 1-1000 choose a spot on the floor around the platform so that we could start the test.¡± Professor Xylar instructed.


    When Gyro and his group entered earlier, they were given the corresponding examinee number. He was holding a 15,003 number so his turn would take a while.


    ¡°Dude, what do you think will be your elemental affinity?¡± Bart whispered to his ear out of nowhere which startled Gyro a little.


    ¡°Eh? I don''t know... Anything, as long as I have one.¡± Came his short reply.


    ¡°Hmm... I don''t like fighting, so I prefer Mystic Light affinity.¡± Bart muttered as he shook his head with a sigh.


    Gyro nodded. He didn''t know what Bart was thinking, but he knew that the guy was still reluctant to be tested.


    ¡°I prefer to have a Mystic Wind just like father or Mystic Water like my Mom.¡± Zyra butted in upon hearing them.


    In Mistikahl world, the ability to manipulate messence was inheritable. Hence, Mystician families remained as the controlling force of the world. However, rare as it may be, myuls do at times gained the same ability and enter the mystician circle.


    As they chatted silently, the first group of examinees had already seated on their respective spots on the floor around the platform, then the symbols on it lighted up and cocooned the youths with blue lights. A few seconds after the spectacle began, most youths fell unconscious one after another.


    Of the first batch, only two hundred youth remain seated with closed eyes. Two minutes later, the blue lights vanished and the remaining youth snapped their eyes open, confused. The students from the academy then asked them to return to their seats after jotting down their names.


    A few seconds later, the unconscious youths had awoken and were informed of their failure. Most youth began sobbing as disappointment clouded their eyes. They froze in place, convincing their mind to accept the reality. Most youths left the coliseum right away, while a few stayed behind to observe despite having downcast expressions.


    Batch after batch, the test continued; and batch after batch, most youths ended in failure. The passing rate was around 20%. Soon it was Gyro''s group turn to be tested.


    They walked down the stand and sat on the ground with bizarre symbols waiting for the test to start. Perhaps, only Gyro was able to maintain his calm since he already knew what his results would be.


    Shua!


    The symbol underneath him lighted up, engulfing him like a cocoon of blue light. Gyro felt his mind tickled and pricked by countless needles making him grimaced in pain. He persevered as his mind began to adjust with the pain. No wonder those youths had been knocked out. The pain was overbearing, targeting the depth a person''s mind¡ªor specifically their Mystic Soul Sea.


    If a person didn''t have 20% or above Brain Efficiency, their brain would be subjected to a strain, shutting down their nervous system. As a precaution, their brain automatically defended itself and placed its host into hyper sleep.


    Minutes later the test ended. Gyro''s batch had 180 passers. Unexpectedly, 10 youths from the village passed the exam. Only five were teary eyed¡ªthey failed. Bart also passed along with Zyra. Gyro raised his thumb up and congratulated the two and the rests of the youths from the village.


    More than two hours passed since the test began, and the last batch of the youths was being tested. Minutes later, the last 188 youths were named.


    From the initial 30 thousand plus youths, around 6 thousand remained. These youths became the new Novix of Zelleor City. The next test was to determine their Mystic Element Affinity ¡ª it would evaluate their future ¡ª if they could become a Mystician.


    ¡°Congratulations to those who passed the first phase of the exam. When we call in your names, you should climb here on the platform to be tested of your affinity.¡± Professor Xylar announced.


    ¡°Marzi Hirtz!¡± A student from Ziroth Academy called. He was holding a scroll listing all the names of passers. Hearing his name, a boy with spiky black hair whisked toward the platform.


    ¡°Brent Hall!¡±


    ¡°Sara Garth!¡±


    One after another, names were called in. Moments later, ten youths stood side by side on the platform.


    Professor Xylar then waved his hand in the air.


    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Ten translucent orbs, the size of an adult fist hovered in front of them. ¡°Place your palm on the orbs.¡± He instructed.


    The ten youths followed nervously. As they extended their palm on the orbs, it blinked with multicolored lights. The color of the orbs kept changing before settling on one color. One youth had his orb changed to blue. The rests remained clear.


    ?Brent Hall: Mystic Water element- 50% sensitivity. Brain Efficiency- 24%.?


    ?Sara Garth: Mystic element sensitivity null. Brain Efficiency- 21%.?


    ?Norta Nipp: Mystic element sensitivity null. Brain Efficiency- 20%.?


    The orbs blinked twice and displayed the result of the youths. ¡°Yes!¡± Brent Hall exclaimed as he couldn''t contain his excitement. He laughed hysterically.


    The rest of the youths trembled as they stared at the orb which returned to its original translucent state.


    ¡°Sorry kids... Don''t be sad. Life doesn''t end here. It might be your luck to remain ordinary. Sometimes, being ordinary has its perks, away from the messed-up world of Mysticians.¡± Professor Xylar consoled the kids. ¡°Congratulations Mr. Hall, welcome to the chaotic yet thrilling Mystician world. Please return to your seats for now.¡± He smiled.


    Brent Hall nodded with excitement as he briskly walked to his seat.


    ¡°Let''s continue.¡± Professor Xylar said.


    ?Lukaz Rithfield: Mystic Fire Element- 90% sensitivity. Brain Efficiency- 27%.?


    ¡°Hahaha! As I expected!¡± The youth named Lukaz Rithfield arrogantly exclaimed. A sneer escaped his lips as he scanned the youths who had already passed, displaying his superiority. He had the highest result so far.


    Even the two professors and ten students were surprised by his result. A person with an elemental sensitivity of 90% and above was considered a genius and had the higher chance of reaching a Grandmaster Realm. Surely, Lukaz would be the next celebrity at the Academy.


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    ¡°Congratulations Mr. Rithfield.¡± Professor Xylar commended. Then he shook his head as the youth had an attitude issue. He, of course, knew the youth.


    Lukaz returned to his seat full of himself, and glancing around with mocking eyes, receiving the shower of congratulations from the surrounding youths.


    The test continued for an hour before it was Gyro''s turn. He walked towards the stage nonchalantly.


    As the orb appeared before him, Gyro gently tapped his palm over it.


    Shua!


    Bzzzt!


    The orb trembled as the azure-white lightning messence enveloped it. After it had settled, the orb displayed his result.


    ?Gyro Freq: Mystic Lightning Elemental Affinity- 98% sensitivity. Brain Efficiency-20%.?


    ¡°What?!¡± The two professors bolted up. The Mystic lightning was a rare element. It had been 20 years since the last Lightning Mystician appeared in Aventhor Kingdom. And Gyro''s sensitivity towards it was so high as well. Only people with 95-100% sensitivity had the chance to reach Archmaster Realm.


    However, they sighed seeing Gyro''s 20 percent Brain Efficiency. It was a pity... Brain Efficiency determined the leveling speed of a person. Although Mystician''s Brain Efficiency would increase as they level up, Gyro''s low starting point would really dragged him down. It would be a challenge...


    The two professors knew records of Mysticians with a high sensitivity to their element yet died before they could reach the Archmaster Realm because of their sluggish leveling speed.


    Gyro didn''t mind his Brain Efficiency. If he could complete his predecessor''s mission, he could increase it further.


    ¡®Trii, why does my elemental sensitivity was so high?¡¯ He asked the spirit, wondering if his predecessor was really a genius.


    ?Host, your veintrix and mystic core had been modified by the Body Reconstruction Orb increasing your elemental sensitivity with it.?


    ¡®Oh! So that''s why.¡¯ He finally understood. He was familiar with the Mystic Core having read about it in the city library. Every Mystician had a core where all veintrix intersected. As Mysticians gathered and accumulated messence from the surroundings, they then stored them in the Mystic Core. It was located at the center of mystician chest.


    Gyro''s core was azure-white representing the lightning element color.


    Seeing Gyro''s result, Lukaz Rithfield, who continued to boast his success and talent suddenly froze. His eyes almost bulged out as he gritted his teeth, glaring at Gyro with burning fury. It was supposed to be his limelight but was snatched by the peasant before him.


    On the other side, Bart was experiencing the same thing as Gyro did. Hidden from everyone eyes, a special mark on his chest glowed. The mark resembled a carob-brown triangular shield with amber plated edges. It blinked and disappeared as fast as it appeared.


    ?Bart Vrez: Mystic Earth Element affinity- 95% sensitivity. Brain Efficiency- 26.? Bart was using Aunt Nydelein''s surname as he couldn''t remember his.


    ¡°Woah! What''s happening? Why do geniuses keep appearing in this backwater place?¡± The old Professor Royle Mohre exclaimed.


    ¡°Crazy right, Vice Principal? One or two, I can accept... But three?¡± Professor Xylar was in disbelief. Then another bomb dropped on them.


    ?Zyra Dewdrop: Mystic Water Element affinity- 92% sensitivity. Brain Efficiency-30%.? Zyra didn''t use her true surname, Juett, since their enemies were still looking for them.


    ¡°I''ll be damned! Sir, could it be that our Affinity Orbs are defective?¡± Professor Xylar couldn''t take it anymore and asked the old man. It was his first time seeing 4 geniuses in one place.


    Vice Principal Royle Mohre just shook his head. He too was in disbelief and didn''t know what in the world was happening. Four top geniuses in one place were unheard-of. But this result would really benefit their academy so the old Vice Principal recovered quickly and chuckled.


    ¡°Isn''t this better for our Academy? Hahaha. We should take care of these kids well Professor.¡± Vice Principal Royle Mohre grinned at Professor Xylar.


    ¡°Hahaha. Right... Right...¡± Professor Xylar laughed. Then the evaluation continued. No more surprises followed Gyro''s group.


    Lukaz, on the other hand, was seething in anger. Eclipsed. His brilliance had been overshadowed by the three peasants.


    After another 2 hours, all new Novix had been evaluated. Only 65 youth possessed elemental affinity confirming their capability to become a Mystician.


    ¡°Congratulations, everyone!¡± Professor Xylar''s voice reverberated in the coliseum. ¡°The 65 of you will be the new student of Ziroth Academy of Mystical Arts in six months. You should return here on the 61st day of the Month of Wraet, Mistran year 103,699. Our representative will fetch and bring you to the Academy on that day.¡±


    Then the Vice Principal stood and addressed the new students. ¡°Mr. Lukaz Rithfield, Mr. Bart Vrez, and Ms. Dewdrop. You three will be granted full scholarship during your study at Ziroth Academy. I''m sure you will make us proud, right?¡± He smiled. Despite Gyro''s high elemental sensitivity, his Brain Efficiency was too low to be granted a scholarship. Hence, he wasn''t considered by the Vice Principal.


    ¡°Err... Sir? May I speak?¡± Zyra asked.


    ¡°Yes, what is it Ms. Dewdrop?¡± The Vice Principal agreed.


    ¡°Sir, can I transfer my scholarship to someone?¡±


    ¡°Eh? Why would you¡ªanyway to whom will you transfer it to?¡± The Vice Principal didn''t ask for her reason, he knew the girl must have a good reason for doing so.


    ¡°Thank you, Sir... I would like to transfer it to Gyro Freq. He''s my friend... He had a bit of complications in the past, so he need it more than I do.¡±


    ¡°Hmm? Are you sure?¡± Vice Principal Royle Mohre was surprised. He didn''t know these two kids were friends. Transferring the scholarship was within his means, but he should consider if it was really necessary. He didn''t know what circumstances did Gyro had but seeing the girl''s serious expression, he considered it.


    The scholarship covered the tuition fee at the Academy and a few monthly allowances. Each year, students should pay the 500 Mis tuition fee, hence, Gyro really needed it as he didn''t even have any source of money.


    ¡°Yes, Sir.¡± Zyra''s conviction was as firm as rock.


    ¡°Alright, I agree to your request.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Sir!¡± Both Zyra and Gyro said.


    ¡°Hmmp! What a peasant... Asking for a girl to save his a**.¡± Lukaz snorted. It was loud enough to be heard by everyone.


    Gyro didn''t mind the comment. It was true that he really needed Zyra''s help, so he took the snide remark like it was nothing.


    Meanwhile, Bart glared at the arrogant Lukaz. Despite having met Gyro for just two days, he considered him as a friend already, so he was a bit angry at the insult.


    ¡°Alright, the recruitment examination ends here. See you soon at school kids.¡± The Vice Principal quelled the tension between the kids right away.


    ¡°Thank you, Vice Principal, Professor Xylar and seniors students.¡± Bart''s friendly attitude came through.


    ¡°Your welcome kid. Take care.¡± Vice Principal Royle Mohre smiled. Then they left.


    Gyro followed his group out. He didn''t even glance at Lukaz who was still glaring at them. Gyro just hoped to leave as peaceful as they arrive.

 Chapter 8 Ziroth Academy of Mystic Arts

    Chapter 8 Ziroth Academy of Mystic Arts


    Some things always have ways of veering off from the norm.


    When their group turned to exit the central section, a group of men blocked their path. Leading them was the scarlet haired young man whom they were familiar with, Lukaz Rithfield.


    ¡®There goes the peaceful day I''m hoping so much...¡¯ Gyro shook his head.


    ¡°Young man, you have a great reason for blocking our way, right?¡± Helthor asked nonchalantly.


    ¡°Hmp! Of course! You don''t know me? And you peasant dare to humiliate in the recruitment?¡± Lukaz barked. His scarlet eyes burned with malice.


    ¡°Hmm? I understand your frustration kid, but everything doesn''t revolve around you. When you travel the world, you will find that there''s always someone better than you. You have been living here and is used to being the center of attention, so the setback you had in the coliseum affected to you that much... I understand that, but you, bringing here this small troop, really made me disappointed.¡± Helthor preached.


    As a former king, he understood this young man. Lukaz had been pampered since young. Only now did Helthor recalled Lukaz surname. He connected the dots and knew Lukaz was the son of the City Lord. No wonder he had swiftly gathered a group of City guards.


    ¡°Still, that doesn''t give you peasant the right to take my limelight.¡± Lukaz pressed on.


    ¡°Tch! Truly a spoiled brat... Then, what is it that you want kid?¡± Helthor asked.


    ¡°Simple... Those kids should apologize to me... Hmp!¡±


    ¡°For what? We haven''t done you any wrong... Why should we apologize to you?¡± Zyra couldn''t take it anymore. Such an unreasonable brat really made one''s blood boil.


    ¡°You didn''t? Then why did you...¡±


    ¡°Did what? Take your foolish limelight? The hell, we don''t care any of it... Go take it yourself... It''s not our fault for having better talent than you... You''re such unreasonable brat. Didn''t your parents teach you manners? And what''s with these guards? Are we criminals now? Tch, I like to see how those academy people will take it if they find out that having a great talent is a crime now.¡± Zyra glared back.


    ¡°Hmp! I don''t want to talk nonsense with you anymore. Guards go take this people into custody... Put them in prison for five days so that they will learn their lessons.¡± Lukaz ordered.


    Drmmm...


    Before the guards could act, the surrounding space was sealed as Helthor casually waved his hand. They were frozen in place and couldn''t even move a muscle. Even Lukaz was petrified, tongue-tied.


    ¡°Kid, you better learn good manners fast... Your attitude will kill you as soon as you leave the safety of this city if you don''t change your ways... And remember, there''s always heaven beyond heavens... You better learn fast, kid or your Dad will be disappointed seeing you act that way..." Helthor spoke with warning, a sliver of his aura seeped out as he did.


    The Gyro''s group continued leaving the immobile guards and Lukaz on the street.


    The guards'' eyes blinked with fear following the disappearing silhouette of Gyro''s group. Five minutes later, they regained this mobility.


    "Young Master, that man isn''t a low level Mystician. Only above gold master mystician could render us immobile. We better stay away from them, that group was dangerous." One of the guards opined.


    Lukaz seemed to realized his mistake. If the man was vengeful, they could have died there. He knew how most mysticians behaves. Their honor shouldn''t be cross or questioned, or else endless trouble. Even his Dad wasn''t capable of doing such Art. Fortunate... Lady luck seemed to smile at him this time.


    Meanwhile, Gyro''s group returned to the hotel and retrieved their things before setting out for the village.


    ¡°See you in six months, Gy, Zy... I''ll be here to attend to my masters needs for a while.¡± Bart jested making a quick glanced at Aunt Nydelein at the hotel counter.


    ¡°Brat, you''re going at that master-slave thing? It seems your butt missed my kicks.¡± Aunt Nydelein obviously heard it.


    ¡°You clearly misheard it ma¡ªAunt.¡± Bart craned his neck and feigning ignorance.


    ¡°Okay Bart, we''re going now... See you.¡± Said Zyra.


    ¡°Bye...¡± Gyro waved his hand and walked off with the rests.


    ¡°Alright! Take care guys!¡± They still heard Bart''s voice as they cross the slum towards the city gate.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    For the next six months Gyro practiced his tricks improving his mid-level trick to mid mastery. He had no Mystic Meditation Art so had yet to accumulate messence. Hence, perfecting his tricks was all he could do.


    Gyro did have another thing in mind during these six months. After returning to the village, he asked Helthor if he could learn the Art of Mystic Forging from him.


    His preferred weapon was one of a kind in this world. Even on Earth, Yo-yo wasn''t intended to be one. So he had to learn how to craft things and design his weapon.


    Helthor had no apprentice, so he agreed to Gyro''s request. The Art of Mystic Forging had several requirements, though.


    One was strength. There was never a weak Mystic Forger. Muscle and bone strength were necessary to be able to lift a hammer consistently.


    Two, intense concentration. A blueprint should be followed precisely as specified. And tremendous focus was necessary to do so.


    Three, patience. A mountain of it. To forge an item, a forger would fail most of the time. It would take a great deal of patience to stay on the project even if everything seemed to fall apart.


    And of course, talent and creativity. Great items were often a product of great imagination.


    And lastly, understanding of runic inscriptions. A Great Mystic Forger was also a great runic master. Runes were symbols and characters inscribe to perform different mystical effect. One example of it was the symbol on the floors of the coliseum during the recruitment of new students.


    For an artifact to harness the mystical essence, runes should be itched onto them to allow messence to flow naturally. And runic inscriptions had one requirement, soul sense. It was the mystician''s ability to perceive everything around him, seeing what a naked eye couldn''t. A Mystician''s Soul Sense range depended on his Brain Efficiency and realm.


    Despite his low Brain Efficiency and only 1 meter soul sense range, Gyro believed that he could successfully learn the Art of Mystic Forging albeit slowly.


    During six months, he focused on studying Runic inscription, reading tomes from Helthor, remembering and analyzing everything. With Trii''s help, Gyro stored the tomes'' content in the system library, available anytime for his perusal.


    ¡°Gy, our carriages was ready. Everyone was waiting for you.¡± Xander called over. He was the only village youth who passed the examination six months ago.


    ¡°Co-coming!¡± Gyro scoped everything he owned and stored them in a leather rucksack he bought from the traveling merchant who visited the village a few months back. He helped Helthor in the forge, so he earned a few Mis.


    When he exited the house, he saw the stout body of Xander blocking his way.


    The ginger hair youth eyed him with interest, wondering what took him long enough. With his brown curious eye, Xander looked at him and asked, ¡°Gy, you don''t own a lot of things, what took you so long?¡± His eyes shifted towards the brown leather rucksack slung at Gyro''s back.


    ¡°Caught up with something... Sorry X.¡± Gyro apologized, scratching the back of his neck.


    ¡°Hmm... Alright, let''s go.¡± Xander nodded and swerved whisking away.


    Gyro grinned and darted following the Xander''s huge back.


    As they reached the parked carriages at the center of the village, Helthor and Zyra were already waiting for them. With them was Xander''s parents who were dewed eye especially Maris, the mother.


    ¡°Mom, we have already talked about his right? The school-year is only for a year and I''ll be home before you know it.¡± Xander hugged while consoling his Mom.


    ¡°I kn¨Cknow son... But... I still can''t believe you''re leaving us.¡± Sobbing, she hugged her son tighter.


    ¡°Okay Mom... That''s enough. We''re leaving now.¡±


    ¡°You have to take care son...¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom.¡± He pecked on her cheek. ¡°Bye Dad!¡± Xander hugged his father as well.


    ¡°Hmm... Be good over there, son... And stay with Zyra and Gyro; they''re your only friends there... And be careful.¡± His father held him at both shoulders.


    ¡°Yes, Dad! Bye!¡± Xander then waved as he climbed on the carriages.


    Seeing the emotional scene, Gyro''s eye moistened with glistening tears reminiscing his parents back on earth. He mopped his eyes with his robe and turned head away from the rests.


    ? ¡ª ? ¡ª ?


    Their journey toward the city was uneventful one. At times, they would stop by the rill and restock their water supply and feed the horses. Gyro still wondered why this magical world still had primitive transportation.


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Arriving in the city, they directly went to the central section. There, the rests of the freshmen from Zelleor City assembled and were waiting for the Academy representative to bring them to the school.


    ¡°Gy, Zy over here!¡± A voice rang out alarming everyone. When they looked around to find the source of the voice, the skinny boy with matching emerald eyes and emerald spiky hair appeared skipping over Gyro''s group.


    ¡°Hahaha! You guys are finally here.¡± Bart guffawed, his thin lips stretched.


    ¡°How long have you been here Bart?¡± Zyra queried.


    ¡°Not long... An hour or so...¡± Bart grinned. ¡°Gy? Is that you? I hardly recognize you. What happened to your hair? And you''ve developed some muscles during these six months... Hahaha.¡±


    ¡°Err... Hehehe. I thought a change would be nice, so I cut and dyed my hair... and I''ve been training my body so¡ª¡± Gyro said timidly. He had dyed his long frazil-silver hair to black. It was too conspicuous, and somebody might recognize him easily especially his predecessor''s enemies.


    ¡°Hahaha... That''s great! Wow! You have bulging muscles.¡± Bart teased.


    ¡°Tch! A group of peasants... Same birds flocks together.¡± A mocking voice resounded behind them.


    ¡°Oh! The EGO TRIPPING, CONCEITED brat!¡± Bart evinced.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± The scarlet haired Lukaz growled. Amid the freshmen, he had formed his hencemen of 5.


    ¡°Just as what you''ve heard... Zizizi.¡± Zyra chuckled.


    ¡°You! You better choose the company you''re being with girl... These peasants will not do you any good... Better join our group.¡± Lukaz commented.


    ¡°Oh! Yeah... I exactly know whom to be with.¡± Zyra made a dismissal gesture.


    ¡°You¡ªdon''t know what''s good for you. Hmp! Boys!¡± He signaled. The five freshmen acknowledged his command circling the four.


    ¡°You kid... What are you playing at now?¡± Helthor just arrived after his quick trip to the Mystician Guild.


    ¡°Oh, nothing... Let''s go guys¡ª¡± Lukaz slightly trembled seeing Helthor. His spine chilled for a moment. Swiftly, the six scampered away.


    ¡°Hahaha... Turtle egg¡ª¡± Bart humoured.


    Zoooom!


    Just when the group was laughing at Lukaz group, the air swirled and hummed as a translucent Elysian bubble hovered over them. Gyro''s eye lit up the moment it appeared. The bubble was enveloped by a chromatic cerulean aura. It slowly descended, then a tripod sprouted underneath as it alighted on the plaza.


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    As the air settled, the ethereal bubble was revealed, gleaming before the awestruck crowd.


    In Gyro''s estimate, the bubble had a diameter of 30 meters. It was horizontally divided by 5 platforms. Each could house around 100 people.


    Tssssh!


    A portal opened on the surface of the bubble and a Portly man wearing a heather-violet robes with Ziroth Academy black helix insignia on the chest stepped out. As the man appeared, he smiled and addressed the crowd.


    ¡°Firs'' yers! Wel''ome to the Hover Bubble Z1, your transport service to the Ziroth Academy. Get in! We''re delayed on schedule.¡± The fatty boomed, gesturing with his swelling hand.


    A Hover Bubble was one of the public transport invented by Mysticians. However, it was only available between cities. Its speed was thrice as fast the Mystic Hover Art utilized by a Bronze Junior Master Mystician which was around 60 kilometers per hour.


    After he had said that, the freshmen scrambled to enter the bubble first.


    ¡°Father, we''re off. See you in a year.¡± Misty eyed, Zyra kissed Helthor on the cheek who replied by hugging her hard.


    ¡°Take care, my baby.¡± Helthor muttered under ragged breathing. It the first time he would be separated from his daughter after all.


    ¡°Okay father...Bye¡ª¡±


    ¡°Bye Uncle!¡±


    Gyro was waiting for Zyra and together they climbed towards the portal of the bubble.


    When everyone was in, the portal shut then the bubble slightly vibrated. It was again enveloped by the bizarre chromatic blue aura.


    Swoosh!


    The bubble soared through the air, floated over the clouds for a few seconds, and sped northwest like a bullet. It zoomed towards the ocean. All the freshmen saw as they traveled was the white cumulus around them.


    After the initial burst, the bubble settled at a steady speed of 150 kilometers per hour and slightly descended below the clouds for the first years to view the continent below.


    Gyro observed that they were flying over a mountain ranges that snaked from the south towards the north. The Zelleor City was located at the southernmost part of Aventhor Kingdom which was one of the smallest kingdoms in the south of Soaring Sun Empire.


    Peering further down south, Gyro glimpsed a range of shimmering white mountain ranges bordering the southern sea. Even in the middle of scorching summer of the Fyr Month, the mountain ranges was still covered with snow. This spectacle extended as far as Gyro''s eye could see.


    They had cruised for 8 hours when the bubble began descending and hovered over the isthmus connecting the mainland towards the Ziroth Island.


    The bubble decelerated, flying over the isthmus and approached the island as the freshmen peered over it with interest; seeing the carriages moving to and from the island.


    ¡°Hahaha. I''ve been seeing the same reaction from freshmen over the years... The isthmus below is called Aetherin Pass. It is one of the paths to the Academy.¡± The fatty explained. His name was Brook Harrington and served as one Ziroth Academy Hover Bubble operators.


    ¡°See those carriages below? Our myul servants ride ¡®em to go or leave the academy. It was also used by some merchants and students who wanted to travel to and out of the Academy by carriages.¡± Harrington informed the students who nodded in response.


    ¡°On your seat Kids... We''ll be landing soon.¡±


    Gyro braced himself as he craned his neck over to look at the Ziroth Island which was getting bigger and bigger as the bubble descended. At the center of the island, he saw an ancient castle with four triangular towers, one at each corner. Covering the castle was a prismatic barrier which he guessed could block or defend from any attack or unwanted teleportation.


    When the bubble descended, its bizarre aura hummed in-sync with the barrier which engulfed and swallowed it in as it entered the castle''s protection without hindrance.


    In front of the castle was a wide expanse field with two Hover Bubble docking platform. The first bubble had already arrived and was safely docked on one platform. It was marked on the surface with:


    | Ziroth Academy Hover Bubble Z2 |


    After the Hover Bubble Z1 alighted on its designated bay, Harrington''s voice tuned out, ¡°Ol''right Kids, off you go¡ª¡±


    The Hover Bubble''s portal then opened and the freshmen poured out.


    Gyro, Zyra, Bart and Xander weren''t in a hurry, though. They waited for everyone to exit before scrambling onto their feet.


    The first years lined up in front of the colossal castle that had silver-gray walls, towering over them like a fortress than a castle. The entrance of the castle was like a giant monster maw, opened wide with protruding sharp teeth on the top. Gyro had a feeling that any unauthorized entry to the castle would actuate the sharp teeth to descend, cutting the trespasser into bits.


    On the top of the entrance hung glittering words written in Mystral:


    | Zixroyth Avcavdewmy oyf Mystixc Avrts |


    The magnificent calligraphy seemed domineering and lofty reflecting mysticism of the place.


    Standing at each side of the frightening entrance were two sculptures of lion like monsters. They were releasing an intimidating aura which pressed down on the freshmen who had difficulty of breathing.


    As the freshmen struggled to adjust to the heavy pressure, an old woman wearing a purple and pointy velvet hat appeared before them.


    "Freshmen! Attention." Her word was small and crisp and everyone could clearly hear a commanding and strict tone from it.


    The freshmen had no choice but stood straight in full attention. A few even had nervous expression.


    ¡°Welcome to Ziroth Academy of Mystic Art. Now, if you please follow me to the great hall. Line up well and stop pushing around.¡± The old woman sharply said then she spun around and strode towards the entrance.


    ¡°New blood Grupp, Grodd... Remember to mark them well.¡± The old woman addressed the two sculptures which responded releasing an even intense aura. Then symbols floated in the air and zoomed towards each student wrist, imprinting itself to their skin.


    The students were dumbstruck at the scene. A lot of them trembled seeing the sculptures came to life with blazing red eyes.


    ¡°Relax students... They won''t hurt you. These two are our Academy''s sentinel. They are Mystic Golems named Grupp and Grodd... The symbol imprinted on your wrist is your student ID. Anyone with that ID will not be attack by these two as you passed the entrance.¡± The old woman assured the anxious youths.


    ¡°Let''s go, everyone is waiting.¡±