《Summoner Reborn - The Arcane Card Battle Stories》


 Welcome to My Life

    "I hate thunderstorms," I mumbled as I walked down Woodward Avenue. My shoes hit the next puddle with a splash. A second peal of thunder cracked overhead. The bright flash lighting up the Detroit Skyline. If it weren''t my regular game night at the Stacked Deck, I''d be at home warm and comfortable. But I didn''t want to let my gaming buddies down. Every Thursday night after work we''d get together and play our favorite 3D Card Game, Epic Arcane Duel. I''d invested a lot in my deck, and the owner of the local gaming shop had the best Holo-table in the state. The card game was unique and took advantage of the latest in gaming technology. Rendering the monsters and special fx in stunning 3D detail. I never got tired of watching the holographic creatures duel it out in real time. The game was a huge sensation and getting more popular every day. Besides, it was my one escape from my boring assed life.


    By day I spent hours programming for the Big Data company. The daily tasks themselves weren''t too exciting. Mostly banking and financial stuff. Two topics I could care less about. I continued to walk along the rain-slicked Detroit streets until I finally made it to the game shop. I pushed the door open, and the old bell which hung above the entrance rang.


    "Well look who''s here," A pale-faced red-head put down her deck of cards. "Glad to see you made it Luke."


    "What''s up Noreen," I answered.


    "Just got a new card," she grinned as she peeled away the plastic wrapping. "Want to see?"


    "Sure," I sat next to her. "Lady of Swords!" she turned it carefully.


    I reached for the card, "Sweet!"


    Noreen yanked the card back with a playful grin, "Hey no touching, I just got this!"


    I laughed, "All right is everyone else here?"


    "Jerrod''s in the back. Phil and Jack went to get pizza!" She answered.


    "Is Luke here," Jerrod came into the room. He smiled when he saw me. There was something about the guy that just made you want to like him. He owned the Stacked Deck and was probably a bigger nerd than me. Over six-foot tall and more than little overweight, he was the gentlest giant you ever did meet.


    "Sure am," I replied. "Want to get a quick starter duel in?"


    "Let''s do it!" He rubbed his hands together.


    "Ok fire up the holo-table and get started!" I pulled out my deck and selected my monster card.


    Jerrod winked as he pressed the Holo-table''s power switch."Prepare to be schooled!"


    I calculated this duel would be quick. Jerrod slapped a card face down on the table. The LED screen flickered to life.


    "Now the table will read the data from our Monster Cards!" Jerrod scratched his chin after a menu screen flickered to life. We both mulled over the selections.


    "Which battlefield do you choose?" He asked me.


    ''It looks like we have our choice between Desert, Haunted Mine, and Collesium!" There were advantages and disadvantages to each map.


    My buddy Jerrod had already made his decision, "Collesium!!!"


    I knew he''d probably selected the best map for his chosen monster. "Ok, you win Collesium it is!"


    Jerrod tapped the flatscreen, and the 3D image of a holographic Roman Collesium built itself with layers of light.


    Ok, Luke, it''s time to reveal our Monsters!"


    Jerrod tapped his card and soon a swirl of pixels manifested. The three-dimensional image came into focus. Finally, a roman style Gladiator stood center stage. The newly created monster whirled it''s deadly Morningstar weapon over its head and then held up its shield in a guard position.


    "That''s my Elite level Gladiator!" Jerrod cracked his knuckles. "So why don''t you show me what you got?"


    "You''re not going to show off his attribute scores first?" I teased.


    "Glad to oblige," Jerrod cleared his throat and then spoke, "Oracle, please display monster attributes and attacks."


    Oracle was the gaming systems unique AI, designed as a virtual referee and player guide. In response, the AI replied in a soothing female computer-generated voice.


    "Of course Player Jerrod, one moment while I access the Monster Card data."


    "Did you have to make her sound so sexy," Noreen peered over her boyfriend''s shoulder.


    Jerrod blushed, "I don''t think she sounds that sexy!"


    "I swear," Noreen kissed Jerrod''s cheek. "Boys only think about one thing."


    "Not true," I chimed in. "We also think about pizza."


    Noreen rolled her eyes and went back to her table, "Whatever, you bothhave fun. I''m going to read up on my new monster card."


    "Time to battle," Jerrod rubbed his hands together.


    Within seconds a status window appeared. On it displayed the full stats of Jerrod''s fighting monster.


    Oracle then read the Monster''s stats aloud, "The Gladiator is an Elite Melee Monster. It has an Armor Class of seven. Your monster currently has five-hundred hitpoints. Its primary attack is Lashing Strike which deals exactly forty-five points of damage. Shield Block is the Gladiator''s special ability. This signature move reduces damage from the next incoming attack by fifty percent."


    Impressed by the Gladiator''s attributes I flipped my Monster Card over, "He looks tough! Let''s see how he deals with Assassin Bug!"


    In response, the tables holographic display system built an image of my chosen champion out of light. Soon, a bug-like creature in Ninja gear stood across from the Gladiator.


    Without prompting, Oracle recited my Assassin Bug''s attributes.


    "Assassin Bug is an Elite Rogue with an Armor Class of six. Its hit points are three-hundred twenty-five. This monster''s primary attack is Cursed Daggers, which inflict seventy-five points of base damage. Stealth Strike is your monster''s special ability. This signature move performs damage equal to fifty percent of any trapped targets current hit points."


    I cracked my knuckles, "Hmmm, While your Gladiator is quite tanky, my Assassin Bug is faster and deals more damage."


    "Let''s see how it goes, roll for initiative!" Jerrod slapped his hand down on the table.


    A 3D image of a d20 die appeared and spun in mid-air.


    When it stopped I announced my die roll, "I got a fifteen, now you roll."


    Jerrod nodded, and the die spun in response when it stopped he spoke.


    "I only rolled a six, so you go first!


    It was time for the action to start! I quickly laid out my initial moves.


    "I''ll move my monster six squares into melee range. Next, I''ll play the Nimble Blade card. Now Assassin Bug can attack twice in one round!"


    Jerrod took stock of position on the map and then made his responsive commands.


    "All right time to buff my Gladiator with a Devastating Blow Potion Card! That will double the damage he deals!"


    Now it was time to let our Monsters carry out their orders. This was definitely one of the most exciting parts of the game. I caught my opponents eye and nodded a signal that I was ready to go.


    "Monsters attack," we both cried out in unison.


    Both monsters charged into battle. Assassin Bug lunged forward and slashed with his gleaming daggers, while the Gladiator struck with his Morningstar. Their weapons raked across exposed flesh and blood dripped from the resulting wounds. The hovering numbers above each creature glowed red revealing the damage dealt.


    Assassin bug had hit The Gladiator for one-hundred fifty damage. While The Gladiators vicious flail caused Assassin Bug to lose ninety hit points. The Gladiator, now with three-hundred fifty hit points, roared as it faced off against Assassin Bug, who had been reduced to just two-hundred thirty-five hitpoints.


    After that first turn, I took a few moments to strategize. Jerrod''s monster could hit hard and endure lots of damage. But it was also slow. Assassin bug was tons squishier but could strike fast. Meaning my best strategy was to hit in quick bursts while remaining mobile. I could then recover hitpoints using one of my potion cards.nd


    "I''m ordering my monster to retreat and seek cover," I announced. "Then once he''s found a cover I''ll activate the Heal Monster potion card."


    In response, the Assassin bug took cover behind a large column. The glowing symbol that represented the Heal Monster potion card hovered over Assassin Bug''s head. Then it vanished, showing my monster in a bright green light. I grinned with satisfaction as I watched his Hit Point counter gain a buff of one-hundred and seventeen points.


    Jerrod leaned forward cracked his knuckles, "Not so fast! The Gladiator is normally slow moving, but I''ll play the Runner''s Speed card to increase his movement."


    Jerrod turned over his Runner''s Speed. A winged boot icon manifested over his slow-moving Gladiator''s head. The heavily muscled creature suddenly moved swiftly towards my Assassin Bug''s hidden location. I also noticed that now both monster''s were at an evenly matched three-hundred and fifty hit points.


    "Time to make another initiative roll," Jerrod leaned back in his chair with a smug smile. "You ready?"


    "I was born ready," I tented my fingers, "Let''s roll."


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


    The floating d20 spun around this time granting Jerrod a ten and me six. Damn! It looks like his Gladiator would make the first move. I bit my lip and hoped my Assassin Bug could take the heat.


    Filled with confidence my opponent barked out his commands, "All right, looks like I move first. Gladiator attack Assasin Bug!"


    Not wanting to be an easy target, I called out to my Monster Champion, "Assassin Bug use Cursed Daggers in a frontal assault."


    The two monsters lunged towards each other. Jerrod''s Gladiator struck, his barb-tipped flail slashed at Assassin Bug. My heart sunk as my Champion''s blue hit point bar decreased to show his hit points were now down to Three-hundred five. The Assassin Bug''s daggers dealt slashed forward. The Gladiator''s hit point bar diminished by seventy-five points. Now the behemoth only had two-hundred seventy-five remaining hit points.


    I grinned with satisfaction, "It looks like I got you on the ropes now!"


    "I still got a few tricks up my sleeve!" Jerrod pointed at the holographic D20, "Time for another roll!"


    "Let''s do it," I responded.


    On command, the die spun granting me a roll of nine and Jerrod a mere six.


    It was time to make some quick decisions. I was sure I could finish off the Gladiator with a few decisive moves. While the creature was big and tanky, it was also slow moving. There was no doubt it was time to press the advantage.


    "Ok, now it''s my turn," I stroked my chin. "Assassin Bug''s going to move six squares. That will place him behind your Gladiator. And I''m going to play my Binding Chains Trinket card. Which will give him a damage buff against your held monster."


    "Tricky move," Jerrod pointed to his Gladiator. "Then I''ll have to play my Eye of Freedom Trinket Card. Which will free me from Binding Chains but not until the next round." He paused in thought, " So that means it''s best to command Gladiator to use his special Ability, "Shield Block" which reduces the next incoming attack by half!"


    I admired Jerrod''s strategy. It wouldn''t protect him from damage in the current turn. He would remain buffed for the next turn. That gave him the opportunity to heal up and come back at me hard. There was no choice. I needed to finish off his Gladiator as soon as possible.


    Our monsters entered battle. Assasin bug faded from view. Moving both silent and invisibly he crept behind the Gladiator. With one swift motion, my Assassin tossed a glowing orb towards the Gladiator. The sphere formed light green chains which now firmly trapped my opponents monster. Then Assassin bug fired off his attack. The blades sunk into the Gladiators back and his hit point bar crashed down to one-hundred thirty-eight.


    Jerrod fiddled with his card deck, Ouch! That was pretty nasty.


    I rubbed my hands together in greedy satisfaction. There was no way that Jerrod could win now.


    "Ready to give up?" I asked him.


    "No way, the battle isn''t over yet," Jerrod''s confidence was unshaken. "Just roll for initiative again!"


    Admiring my opponent''s grit, I gestured. In response, the D20 spun around, and new numbers appeared on the holographic display.


    "Dammit!" Jerrod cursed. "A six! I rolled low again!"


    "Yup," I replied. "Looks like I rolled an 11. Which means I get the first attack for another turn."


    "Your monster''s initiative and speed bonuses are a royal pain," Jerrod leaned back in his chair.


    "You ain''t seen nothing yet!" I tapped the gaming table, and my Assassin Bug moved in for another devastating attack.


    "Not so fast," Jerrod interrupted, "Don''t forget about my special block ability. It comes into play this turn! And I''ll have Gladiator follow up with another attack from his weapon".


    "Monsters Attack!" we commanded.


    Assassin Bug wasted no time. It lunged forward and swiped its daggers at the looming Gladiator. The Gladiator''s Shield Block icon appeared and then vanished. I grimaced when I saw that it had reduced the amount of damage done by my monster. The Gladiator was still standing at one-hundred hit points even. The Gladiator roared triumphantly and stuck the Assassin Bug with its deadly flail. Assassin Bug was knocked back and struck the ground hard. The strike had been brutal, but my Monster Champion still had two-hundred sixty hit points. The advantage was still mine.


    "You only have 100 hit points left!" I leaned forward, "It''s not too late to give up!"


    "Not going to happen," Jerrod smacked the table. "Roll!"


    The die spun and gave us both our next initiative roll results. I got an eight while Jerrod scored a roll of twelve.


    "I got one last trinket card to play." He pulled a card from his deck and placed it on the holo-table. "I''ll play Summon Reinforcements which allows me to call an additional monster to the field for one turn." He pulled another card from the deck. Then turned it over so I could see it, "Next, I call Blessed Cleric who is a healing Monster." Then he pointed to his Gladiator,"Finally, I command Gladiator to attack your monster again for another forty-five hit points in damage."


    I couldn''t help but admire Jerrod''s strategy. He was going all out and wasn''t going to give up. That was the kind of playstyle that made playing Arcane Duel Monster''s so exciting. Even though I admired him, there was no way I was going to go easy on him. The victory was much to close!


    "Let''s even things up by using my Caltrops Trinket Card. Which spread tiny metal spikes over the playing field." I grinned, "That should slow down both your monsters. And I''ll command my monster to move in for another dagger attack."


    Our monsters sprung to life and swung headlong into battle. Assassin Bug swiped its blades and landed two devastating blows. Blood poured from the Gladiators wounds leaving him with just 25 hit points. However, Jerrod''s Blessed Cleric flew in. She hovered over the battlefield with her white wings spread wide. With a gesture, she pointed her healing staff towards the Gladiator. The green beam of energy struck him and bumped his health back up to 38 hit points. Invigorated, the Gladiator moved slowly across the field. The caltrops were debuffing him as he swung his morningstar weapon at Assassin Bug. The deadly gun struck my Monster''s chest, and I watched as his hit points went down to two-hundred fifteen. It was a good play, but unfortunately, it wasn''t good enough. Jerrod''s monster was fierce, but my Assassin had the advantage now. It would only take one more strike for me to win.


    "Even with that healer, your HP is still too low!" I called out Jerrod.


    Jerrod punched his fist into his open palm, "Just roll and let''s see who moves first the next turn." I tapped the holo-table and watched as the D20 spun around once more. It soon stopped giving both of us are roll results. I smiled wide when I saw that I''d rolled an eleven while Jerrod had received a five. Jerrod slapped his forehead as I shouted out my next command.


    "Assassin Bug go in for the kill!"


    "Gladiator is toast!" Jerrod said in dismay." He''ll die before he can launch another attack!"


    Without missing a beat, Assassin Bug lunged forward and jabbed both its daggers into Gladiator''s back. The defeated monster made a gurgling sound as blood oozed from it latest wound. Then the creature threw both hands in the air and howled dramatically. In a matter of seconds, the Gladiator dissolved in a burst of pixelated light.


    "That was a good game," I leaned back in my chair. "Your Gladiator did well."


    "Not good enough," Jerrod held out his hand for me to shake. "But you are the local champion!"


    I took my buddy''s hand and shook it. "Hey, don''t forget we''re playing together in next weekend''s tournament."


    Jerrods girlfriend Noreen put her arms around his shoulders, "Don''t worry. We''re going to build a killer deck for that tournament."


    Of all the girl gamers who hung out at the shop, I liked Noreen the most. She wasn''t pushy and was quite frankly a top-notch card duelist in her own right. No wonder Jerrod had fallen so hard for her.


    "So you guys want to try team battles next," I grinned. "It will be good practice."


    "Don''t get cocky boy," she jabbed a playful finger into my chest. "We''re just getting started."


    "You''re dueling without us!" Phil shouted as he and Jack entered carrying a grease-stained cardboard box. The delicious scent of freshly baked pizza filled the room. My stomach growled in response.


    "We got snacks and drinks!" Jack the shorter of the two men placed the white pizza box on the table next to us.


    "Another round then," I called over my shoulders to Jack. "Hey come over here and be my partner!"


    "Time to get the Monster duels rolling," Phil shouted and pumped his fist in the air.


    I grinned and leaned back in my chair. These guys were awesome and I was proud to call them my friends. Life could be rough, but gamingalways made me happy. Surely, nothing could go wrong on a night like this. Little did I know that my world was about to come to a tragic and unforeseen end.

 An Unfortunate Event

    "Dude you won every single match tonight!" Phil shook his head in disbelief.


    "It was just luck," my face flushed red with embarrassment.


    "Don''t be modest!", Jarrod interrupted. "You''re one of the best players in Michigan."


    "We''re going to beat those other teams bad!" Noreen punched her fist into her palm.


    "Holy crap it''s two a.m.!" Phil glanced at his watch dismayed.


    "All right time to call it a night folks I need to close up shop" Jarrod pressed the holo-tables off switch.


    "Crap!" The lateness of the hour surprised me. "I have an early morning meeting at work."


    "Phil and I better get going!" Jack got up and stretched his arms over his head.


    "Looks like it!'' Phil grabbed his coat. "Want a ride, Luke?"


    I shook my head, "That''s okay, my place is around the corner." I rose from the table. "Can''t sleep anyway. Gonna grab some Red Bull and get this presentation finished for work."


    "You really shouldn''t burn the candles at both ends so much," Noreen cautioned. "It''s not good for you."


    "I know," I called out over my shoulder. "You guys take care."


    The game shop door closed behind me, and I stepped out into the cold Midwestern air. The thunderstorm had died down. Now, a mild drizzle spilled raindrops on to the dark streets.


    Detroit had experienced something of a renaissance over the past few years. With technology and financial companies moving in for the low overhead and cheap talent. Downtown was now a hub of hipsters paying way too much for renovated lofts and condos.


    My own apartment was centrally located and near just about everything I needed. After a few steps, I ducked into the local 24-hr corner store. The middle-eastern guy behind the bullet-proof screen didn''t even bother to lift his head as I entered. He seemed much too engrossed in reading a Farsi language newspaper.


    "Who even reads print newspapers any more?"I wondered silently. Moving swiftly through the cramped aisles, I snatched a couple of Red Bulls. Next, I grabbed a frozen burrito and headed to the counter to pay.


    "That will be seven ninety-five," the bearded clerk said.


    I slid my ATM card through the card reader. Then grabbed my bag. The clerk passed my receipt through a slot in the plexiglass screen and mumbled a lukewarm thank-you.


    "Noreen''s right," I mused as I made my way home. "It''s time I start taking better care of myself."


    The rain started to intensify, and I realized that I really needed to piss. Luckily, my apartment building was in sight. I just needed to cross the street.


    Another peal of lightning lit up the sky. "Damn!" I held my wet paper bag close to my chest. The storm was growing worse.


    At this time of night, the traffic was all but non-existent. While I usually would have waited at the crosswalk, surely there''d be no harm in just dashing across. Besides, it was raining hard, and I needed to use the bathroom.


    Without another thought, I stepped into the street. There was no way I could''ve seen the blue Ford Sedan that swiftly rounded the corner. The driver didn''t have time to swerve. He crashed into me full force, sending my body flying into midair. Everything moved in slow motion. The contents of my now torn paper bag spilled out. The two Red bull cans hit the ground first. Followed by the dull thud of my own smashed body.


    The impact itself wasn''t painful. The sheer shock of it forced my spirit free. Now hovering above the scene, I saw myself bleeding and broken. The car had stopped, and the distraught driver exited. He''d already pulled out his phone to call for help.


    "Omigod," A familiar female voice caught my attention. Noreen and Jerrod ran from the darkened gaming shop and into the street. Jerrod kneeled over me and felt for a pulse. Then he performed CPR.


    I wanted to call out to him, "I''m not in there anymore!" As crazy as it sounds I was quite aware that I had died. In fact, being dead didn''t shock me at all.


    The sounds of Noreen''s sobs were soon drowned out by the loud whines of sirens. Before long, my lifeless body was surrounded by police and paramedics.


    Fascinated by the unfolding drama, my disembodied spirit floated around the scene. I was aware of everything. From the female police officer questioning the driver of the blue sedan to the paramedics covering my body with a blue plastic tarp. A stone-faced uniformed officer held my wallet in his hands. He looked it over and then spoke to the note-taking policeman next to him.


    "Says here the deceased was Lukas Tran, Twenty-four," The cop shook his head. "Way to young to die like this."


    I wasn''t cold or wet anymore. In fact, I felt overwhelmed by an intense feeling of well-being. Nothing seemed to matter anymore. Not my stressful morning presentation, the upcoming card tournament, or even the general anxiety I felt daily.


    Being dead really wasn''t so bad. Sudden disinterest in the scene of my deadly accident overtook me. Instead, an overwhelming desire to go upwards compelled me. Seeing no real reason to remain a ghostly presence on the cold Detroit streets I floated upwards. With a wonderful swiftness, my spiritual form flew. Soon the Earth vanished beneath me, and I was surrounded by stars.


    "I wonder if I''m going to heaven," I mused as I hurtled to through the blackness of outer space. I''d spent most of my life fairly agnostic. Thoughts of an afterlife far from the more mundane realities of study, work, and survival. Yet here I was now without a body. Being in spirit form did seem to come to me naturally. I flew among the stars with a freedom I''d never known while I was alive.


    In the distance, one star seemed much brighter than all the others. Its magnetic pull reached out and drew my spirit body towards it. I willed myself to fly faster towards the mysterious light. Before long, I reached my destination. The massive glowing orb completely enveloped me. It''s incredible warmth filling me with joy and comfort like nothing I''d felt. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Welcome Luke," a soothing female voice spoke.


    "Where am I?"


    "In the space between somewhere and nowhere."


    "What happens next?"


    "Come in and find out!"


    With that, there was a blinding flash. A sudden and intense gravity latched on to me. I was being pulled swiftly downwards. Before long darkness overwhelmed me and then nothingness. My blurred vision finally came into focus. I seemed quite aware that I no longer was I spirit form. Once again I had a body. I rubbed my head and sat up.


    "Where am I?" I asked.


    "Finally, you''re awake," a woman''s voice spoke.


    The world that came in to focus was anything but familiar. I rested on a golden framed bed, covered in rich silk sheets. The room itself decorated with marble pillars and ornate statues. Across from me stood an older woman wearing long white robes. Her golden hair pulled back into a simple bun.


    "Who are you?"


    "I''m Skadi," her voice was cool and elegant. "One of the goddesses of fate."


    "What am I doing here?" I stepped out of the bed, my bare feet feeling unsteady on the cold marble floor.


    "You already know that you are dead," she spoke slowly. "However, it appears there was a mistake."


    "What kind of mistake," my voice cracked.


    "A small clerical error really," the goddess glided towards me. "Nothing that we can''t straighten out."


    "I really need you to be more clear," my frustration mounted.


    Skadi took a sharp breath, "I''ll be blunt. You weren''t supposed to die yet." She paused, "In fact, you were due to live for another sixty years."


    "I need to sit down," the color drained from my face.


    The goddess gestured towards a small table with two chairs. With all the strength I could muster, I walked to the table and took a seat.


    "Tea?" Skadi questioned.


    "What?" I said puzzled.


    "Would you like some tea?" She poured a cup from a silver teapot and held it out for me. Even though I didn''t really drink tea, I took the cup.


    "Can you please explain what''s going on," I asked. "In detail!"


    "Of course," she took a sip from her teacup. "There was a clerical error in life accounting. And requisition slip for your end of life was processed."


    "So that''s why I died?" My eyes widened in disbelief.


    "It was an unfortunate mistake," She put down her teacup. "But the good news is you have a surplus of remaining time on your life-account!"


    "What''s that mean?" I massaged my temples.


    "You can trade that balance in for a completely new life!" Her face brightened. "Isn''t that wonderful!"


    "No, it''s not," my voice raised. "I had a perfectly fine life before. I had friends, family, and a good job. Now you''re telling me that''s all gone because of some supernatural accounting error?"


    "Oh dear," her eyes widened. "You sound upset."


    "Of course I am," my voice shook. "My entire life has been ruined. I got hit by a freaking car and I''m dead now!"


    "You mortals," she sucked air between her teeth. "So preoccupied with your short lives. Don''t you realize that you now get a chance for a much better one?"


    "Better?''" I struggled to understand what she meant.


    "You can''t tell me you were really that satisfied with your old one?" Skadi opened a manilla file folder. "I''ve read your life report, dull, dull, dull!"


    I remained silent. It was true my old life wasn''t that exciting. And what did I have to look forward to back on Earth really? The only thing that really excited me was card dueling.


    "Here," Skadi held out a paper form and pen. "Just sign this form, and we''ll get you started on a brand new world!"


    "A new world?" I struggled to understand what she meant.


    "You poor thing," she continued. "All that time spent on Earth. Which quite frankly is the most boring and backward spot in existence!


    The idea of starting over on new and more exciting world intrigued me.  "Do I get to choose my next world?"


    "Not exactly," she said. "That''s against regulations. But I picked a world that I''m quite sure you''ll like. It''s the kind of reality you''ve dreamed your entire life about."


    I weighed my options. Which really weren''t that numerous. Besides, who wouldn''t want a chance to start over? This new world might be exactly what I''d been looking for.


    "Okay," I took the pen an paper. "I''ll give it a shot. And you promise this new life is much better than my old one?"


    "Don''t you worry!" The goddess beamed. "It''s a definite upgrade. Filled with magic and lots of adventure."


    I signed my name and handed the form back to her. "So when do I get to start this new life?"


    "Right now," she snapped her fingers.


    The world around me suddenly went black. I became aware that I seemed to be falling. I fought back my fear and terror with all my courage. What if the goddess had lied to me? No, I refused to believe that. I didn''t get the sense that Skadi was untrustworthy. After what seemed like an eternity, a distant bright light beckoned me. Unable to resist, my very being was pulled towards it. Suddenly, two gentle hands grasped me and pulled.


    My blurred vision focused on kindly older woman''s face. It dawned on me that I was rather small. The gray-haired woman cradled me in her arms and then handed me to someone else. A beautiful dark-eyed lady now held me in her arms. She smiled down and spoke. "It''s a boy!" Her voice brimmed with pride.


    A man with a bearded face and kind eyes now leaned in. He touched my face with rough but gentle hands. He seemed overwhelmed with joy, and I felt a strong kinship with him.


    "What should we name him?" the kind-eyed man asked.


    "Renjie," the beautiful lady whispered. "Let''s name him Renjie."

 I Want To Be The Very Best

    "Renjie slow down you''re running too fast!" Mai called out to me.


    "No way I want to see the summoners in the town square," I didn''t stop running.


    The last fifteen years of my new life were nothing short of amazing. I now lived on Vale. A spectacular world filled with everything I''d ever fantasized about. Magic and mythical beasts roamed freely on this plane of existence. In fact, it resembled the Arcane Duel card game in almost every detail. On this planet, the professions were divided up into various guilds. The most prominent being the soldier''s guild, the craftsmen''s guild, the merchant''s guild, and my favorite the summoner''s guild!


    Ever since I learned to walk, I wanted nothing more than to be a summoner. I talked about it non-stop. Skadi had reborn me into a family of merchants. My parents Noel and Shima were good people and provided me with a great life. They showered me with love and attention, and I didn''t want for much.


    Some things did indeed seem odd. For one¡ª If I tried to mention my previous life, I became mute. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn''t tell anyone where I came from. I chalked this up to some kind of unwritten rule about reincarnation. It disturbed me that I could recall my previous life in excruciating detail. Names, faces, places. They never faded from my memory. Despite having been reborn somewhere entirely different. I figured that must''ve been a gift from Skadi. I didn''t mind remembering my old life, but sometimes the memories saddened me.


    "I swear you''re obsessed with summoners," Mai shook her head in dismay. "I just don''t want you getting your hopes up!"


    "Nobody knows more about summoners and summoning than me," I told her. "I''m getting into the Academy."


    "The academy only takes a small number of new students every year," she narrowed her almond eyes. "How can you be so confident you''ll get in?"


    "I thought big sisters are supposed to be supportive," I kept walking. "We''re going to that demonstration, and I''m going to impress the recruiter!"


    Every seven years representatives from the summoners Academy traveled throughout the Golden Kingdom in search of new recruits. Any student between the ages of thirteen and twenty-one, who had the slightest bit of magical ability, was required to show up. I''d been too young the last time. Now at fifteen, the time had come for me to finally achieve my dream.


    Since my toddler years, my parents indulged my obsession with summoning. While I didn''t have a complete deck, my father had managed to bring back a precious starter card from his travels. It must have cost him a small fortune! I held my only card and admired the drawn image on it. The tiny figure of a toad wearing Knight''s armor stared back at me unblinking. A summoner''s card deck stored captured monsters within in it. Only those with sufficient magical talent could call forth the creatures stored in a summon card.


    "That''s the lamest monster card ever," my sister put her hands on her hips. "There''s no way you''re going impress anyone with that."


    "There are probably five people total in the village who even have a summoning card," I countered. "And probably only two or three that actually have enough magic to use one."


    "True," Mai said. "But the Academy is looking for the most talented magical students in the country."


    "And you don''t think I''m talented?"


    "Mom and dad have found the best magical tutors around," she walked faster to keep pace with me. "And I won''t deny it, Renjie you''re good. But there are safer schools in the magical arts. The Summoners Academy trains front-line fighters! Why don''t you pick another magical school to study? Like the Rainmaker''s academy?"


    "I don''t want to be a rainmaker!" My frustration grew, "I want to be a summoner!"


    "Fine," she said in exasperation. "I  just don''t want to see you disappointed."


    "We''re here," I shouted.


    We reached the town square, and it was busy. Every kid within age range and even the tiniest bit of magic showed up for the summoners demonstration. I was worried we''d be late, but in fact, I think we were a little early. I glanced through the crowd and noticed someone I really wish wasn''t here¡ª Karl Donner. The spoiled son of a rival merchant family set my teeth on edge. Even our parents only barely managed to get along. Thanks to the merchant''s guild settling a feud between our two clans ages ago. I didn''t really know the details, but according to mother, Karl''s father Lars had cheated my father out of a very lucrative shipping contract. Even though Dad later won the dispute, our families still held a bitter rivalry.


    "Renjie," Karl turned his bloated red-face towards me. "What''s a loser like you doing here?"


    "The only loser is going to be you!" I shot back.


    "Just keep your mouth shut Karl," my sister poked a finger into the older boy''s chest. "My brother''s got more magical talent his big toe than you do in your entire body!"


    "Thanks, sis," I whispered.


    "I told you I believe in you," Mai whispered in a hushed voice.


    My big sister was just about five years older. As a result, she was responsible for looking out for me. Also due to our mother''s recent illness, Mai had become an apprentice merchant. Mai now dealt with keeping our family business going while father traveled. We really tried to keep our hopes up, but Mother grew weaker daily. Her mysterious illness baffled every healer we brought to her. Taking care of the household and family store came naturally to Mai. But I noticed such adult responsibilities taking a toll on her. My parents briefly discussed arranging a marriage for her. Yet, both father and mother were quite vocal in their disappointment of all possible suitors. Especially father.


    "No young buck is going to come in here and take over my business," Father would slam his fist on the dinner table.


    None of this seemed to bother Mai. The independent daughter of a wealthy merchant family, she didn''t appear eager to lose her freedom. Despite her youth, she''d grown into a force to be reckoned with.


    "Everyone, please gather," a tall bearded man in royal purple robes beckoned. A sudden hush went through the assembled crowd. Everyone gathered around the central fountain. The robed figure held the familiar engraved staff of the Summoners Guild. And I couldn''t help but notice the leather pouch tied around his waist. I knew for a fact that a deck magical beast cards lay within.


    "Welcome to the choosing," the robed man continued. "I am Alfred. The head recruiter of the Summoners Academy. Every seven years we search for talented youth to join our ranks." He gaze roamed over the crowd as if searching for something. "However, before we begin our testing of the selected candidates, we''d like to show a demonstration."


    The recruiter waved towards two young men, also in purple robes, standing to his left. The youths walked forward with a great deal of confidence. I couldn''t believe it, these were actual Academy Cadets¡ª each of them carrying a summoner''s staff. One had shockingly bright red hair and the other the sparse beginnings of his first beard.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    The temple recruiter raised his staff. In response, both young men faced one another. Without a word, the grey-bearded recruiter lowered his staff.


    The cadets bowed and then fell immediately into battle stances. Their summoners staves held high above their heads. A bright glow of spiritual energy erupted from the raised staves. The purple light extended until it formed a protective dome around the two Summoner Cadets.


    "That''s a battle arena," I whispered to my sister.


    "I know that," she folded her arms. "It''s a protective barrier that keeps any monsters they summon contained."


    "So you have been listening to me," I smirked.


    "Shut up," Mai pinched my arm playfully.


    Our attention focused back on the demonstration battle. The ginger-haired cadet reached into his pouch and produced a monster card. With a fluid gesture, he turned the card to face his opponent. The air shimmered, and a dog-sized lizard-like creature materialized. There was an audible gasp from the crowd.


    "That''s a Salamander," my sister gasped.


    "I know," my eyes widened in shock and awe.


    I couldn''t help but wonder how the young novice had managed to capture such a beast. But I didn''t have time for speculation. His scruffy opponent had already pulled a card from his own deck. The young summoner tossed his card into the air and tapped with his staff. The card hovered midair and glowed. Soon the figure of slim winged woman coalesced before the awestruck crowd. The angel-winged monster flew in elegant circles as the card she''d been summoned from floated gently towards its owner. The young man effortlessly plucked the object from the air. A confident grin shaped his lips, and he winked towards the crowd.


    "Show off," someone muttered in the background.


    "It''s a Razor Wing," someone else responded in surprise.


    "Another rare beast," I couldn''t believe my eyes!


    Never before had I witnessed a Summoner use his staff to call a monster. Such an advanced technique being taught only to Academy cadets. A wave of jealousy and envy overtook me. Which only served to increase my resolve to impress the recruiter.


    The ginger-haired novice pointed with his staff. The Salamander roared into action and leaped towards the flying Razor Wing. The beautiful monster spread her wings wide. Then a flurry of golden feathers erupted from her outstretched wings. The Salamander howled as the razor-sharp feathers sliced its green flesh. The projectiles that missed their target struck the ground.


    The Salamander landed elegantly on its feet, facing the flying Bright Wing. It''s eyes glowing a fierce crimson. Suddenly, twin beams of red-hot laser light shot from its eyes. Both striking the flying beast. The Razor Wing shrieked and plummeted towards the makeshift arena.


    "Enough," the robed recruiter stepped forward his staff raised high. Purplish bolts if electricity radiated from his staff. The energy struck both monsters. The creatures vanished in a flash.


    The head summoner then turned his gaze to his students. They both lowered their staves and bowed. The glowing energy that encircled them vanished.


    I trembled with awe and excitement. I''d never seen an actual card battle like that before. Sure, my parents had paid the occasional wandering tutor to show me a trick or two. But never anything on this scale. Plus, those summoning staves! The way they could control the beasts and shield the summoner. I wanted to learn that kind of power.


    "That was amazing!" Mai placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Are you sure you want to go through with this?"


    "This is all I''ve ever wanted!"


    My sister simply nodded in response and took her hand off my shoulder. I knew she only wanted what was best for me. But in the end, I had to choose my own path. Ever since I was first born into this new world, I wanted nothing more than to learn the arts of summoning. My chance had finally arrived. Giving up now would be unthinkable.


    "Will the candidates please step forward?" Alfred the head summoner beckoned to us.


    Without hesitation, I stepped forward along with three other young candidates. I noticed both smug attitude and pure confidence on Karl''s pudgy face. I really hated that guy. He sure was cocky, but he didn''t have half the magical talent I did.


    My eyes fell on another candidate, a girl with pink hair and impossibly violet eyes. I''d never seen her before. The final candidate a lanky teen who was considerably older than the rest of us. I wondered¡ª If he had magical talent why was he only now auditioning for admission?


    "Candidates speak your names," the head recruiter tapped his staff on the ground.


    "I''m Karl Donner," the privileged little snot stepped forward with way too much confidence.


    "Kylie Huang," the violet-eyed girl spoke with an air of assurance.


    "Jun M?ller," the older kid''s voice cracked.


    "Renjie Castillo," my hands trembled with nervous tension.


    I realized I was much more nervous than I thought I''d be. It''s strange to want something so much and to finally have it within your grasp. My sweaty hands gripped my single summoner card. Toad Knight wasn''t the strongest monster. But I had no choice but to trust my instincts and in my own magical ability. I knew I could pull this off.


    "Summon your monsters!" Alfred commanded.


    "I summon you, Dragon Wing," of course Karl wasted no time being first. The shiny new card he held in his hands glowed brightly, and a tiny winged dragon materialized in front of him. The little beast flew magnificent circles around Karl''s head. Before obediently sitting on his summoner''s shoulders.


    "I summon you Bushwog," Kylie produced her card and held it high in the air. The ground beneath her trembled, and suddenly a thick green branch burst forth. The tiny plant quickly matured into a small leaf covered bush. Then to my amazement, the bush pulled its roots from the ground. The gnarled roots then shaped themselves into feet and legs. Next, wooden arms sprouted from the bush''s sides, and two brilliant green eyes manifested with within its leaves. It was the strangest monster I''d ever seen.


    "I summon you, Rock Troll," Jun, the older boy, gripped his card. There was a slight glow of energy that soon coalesced into a four-foot high figure. The stone-skinned creature brandished its crystal club and took a defensive stance in front of the boy who summoned it.


    "Toad Knight," I called out. "I summon you!" The time-worn card in my hand suddenly felt alive with warmth. A bright flash erupted from my card, and a tiny frog-like beast hopped out. Completely covered in rusty armor, he held out his dented sword. Easily the smallest of the monsters he took his place at my side.


    "Ribbit," the Toad Knight croaked.


    "Well, that''s pathetic!" Karl laughed.


    "Quiet candidate," the recruiter''s stern gaze fell on my tormentor. "Do not speak until you are called upon."


    I stifled a giggle. That''s totally what that jerk deserved. The recruiter turned towards me and I felt small under his piercing scrutiny.


    "Now," he said. "Let''s see if any of you have what it takes to join the Academy."


    My palms were cold and sweaty. This was it, the moment I''d been dreaming of since I''d been reborn into this world. There was no way I could screw it up!

 Dont Ever Stop Fighting

    My heart thundered in my chest as the recruiter regarded us. As one of the assembled candidates I knew the others wanted to be admitted into the academy has much as I did. Summoner Alfred stood directly before us. His hooded gray eyes appraising our newly summoned monsters.


    "What a fine assembly of creatures," he said. "That each of you had enough magic to activate a monster card is a good sign."


    I brimmed with pride. My Toad Knight stood at rigid attention awaiting his next orders. While he wasn''t the most impressive of creatures, I had faith in him. Father had brought this monster summoning card from his travels in the Western Isles. I still recall being overjoyed when I first opened his gift. Owning my own summoning card was a dream come true. My parents had brought a number of magical tutors to me. Who taught me how to focus my mental energies in order to activate the card and bring it to life. Now, after all the struggle and effort I finally had my chance!


    "Let''s see what you can do with these creatures," Alfred said. "I''ll summon my own monster and then command each cadet to attack it."


    "Master," I gasped. "You want us to battle you?"


    "Don''t worry," the old summoner grinned. "This is mearly a test."


    "I''m ready!" Karl held out his arm on which was rested his summoned Dragonling. He was too confident for my taste. I knew the recruiter must have some kind of trick up his sleeve.


    "Shall we begin?" The wisened summoner reached into his pouch and produced a single card. He tossed it upwards and them gestured dramatically with his staff. A beam of energy erupted from his staff and struck the still floating card. A small globe of energy emerged from the card and hovered near the ground. It shimmered and took shape, forming a tiny creature no more than six inches high.


    "What''s that?" The violet eyed girl standing next to me said in surprise.


    "Only a minor monster," Summoner Alfred said. "She''s called Moon Fairy, and should be an adequate opponent for beginners."


    "I got this aced," Karl boasted. The pudgy faced kid pointed at Moon Fairy. Then he shouted, "Dragonling attack!"


    The tiny Dragon spread its wings and took to the air. I barreled directly towards the seemingly helpless fairy. Then Dragonling opened its mouth and unleashed a burst of flame. The resulting fireball sped towards Moon Fairy. My jaw dropped in horror as I watched hot flame engulf the tiny sprite. Then the flames dissipated, revealing Moon Fairy unharmed.


    "What the ¨C," Karl was incredulous. "How did she survive that fire blast?"


    Summoner Alfred didn''t say a word he only smiled. Then he gestured with his staff. Moon Fairy responded immediately and fluttered her wings. The tiny creature rose swiftly and torpedoed towards the attacking Dragonling. Then she pointed with her delicate wand and a silvery beam of energy shot out. The white light wrapped around the Dragonling until it had completely trapped the fire breathing monster. Moon Fairy gestured again and the silvery strands tightened around Dragonling. The now helpless creature fell to the ground with a thud.


    "Let''s see how well you others do" the old Summoner tapped his staff on the ground. In response Karl''s Dragonling vanished in a burst of light.


    "Bushwog attack!" The violet eyed girl screamed.


    In response her leafy companion leaped into battle. As it held out its wooden arms, long leafy vines sprang forth. The creeping vines snaked their way along the ground until they reached Moon Fairy. The omnious vines reached upwards and snatched the flying sprite. Wrapping themselves around the fairy''s tiny form. However, Moon fairy seemed unfazed. A devilish grin crossed the little pixies face and she winked. Suddenly a bright burst of light erupted from her and the creeping vines which entrapped her dissolved into nothingness. Then she spun midair and pointed her silver wand at Bushwog. Another beam of magical light shot forth and struck the ground in front of the leafy monster.


    The ground trembled and the Bushwog was knocked on its back. Moon Fairy pointed with her wand again and another beam of light struck Bushwog. The leafy green monster yelped and then disappeared in a shower of bright sparkles.


    "She easily defeated my Bushwog," the violet eyed girl shook her head in disbelief.


    "Rock Troll attack!" The tall lanky boy next to me pointed to his monster.


    The stone-skinned creature dug it''s fingers into the ground and pulled a massive chunk of earth free. The ball of dirt now in its hands magically transformed into a huge boulder. The little troll hurled the giant rock towards the flying monster. Moon Fairy dodged the incoming missile expertly. She twirled in the air and dove towards the little stone monster. Rock Troll didn''t back down. He ripped another chunk from the earth and solidified it. Then he hurled the stone missile at his dive-bombing opponent. Moon Fairy dodged the incoming attack with very little effort. Then in a surprising move, she flew directly at Rock Troll. Moon Fairy managed to knock the tough little beast off it''s feet. She spun back in the air and pointed her fairy wand at her foe. Another bright beam of light burst forth and struck Rock Troll in the chest. The summoned creature dissolved in a shower of tiny pebbles.


    "No way," Jun seemed surprised that his monster had been so easily defeated.


    "Well I guess it''s my turn," my throat was dry. My Toad Knight was going up against a truly devious little monster. I didn''t know what was going to happen, but I''d come too far to give up now.


    "Toad Knight attack!" I pointed at the flying fairy and my monster leapt into battle. Moon Fairy aimed her wand and shot multiple bolts of light towards my attacking Toad Knight. The little frog was surprisingly agile, dodging each incoming attack. Then he leaped into the air slashed with his rusted sword. His weapon struck the flying sprite, but she seemed impervious to his blows. Moon Fairy flew higher and then readied her wand for another attack. A bright bolt of light beamed towards Toad Knight. But to my surprise my little monster managed to dodge the incoming barrage.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    "Go Renjie go," my sister called out from the crowd.


    Encouraged by Mai''s cheers, I called out to my summoned monster. "Toad Knight launch shield attack."


    Without missing a beat, my amphibious monster held up his shield and hopped upwards towards the fairy. Like a small green missile he barreled towards the silver winged monster. To my surprise he struck her! Hitting her hard with his worn shield.


    Moon Fairy hurtled backward. The sheer force of the impact knocking her from the air. She hit the ground with a resounding thud. My Toad Knight landed on it''s feet, shield still raised in defense.


    Interesting," Summoner Alfred arched an eyebrow.


    "You can do it Renjie!" My sister pumped her fist into the air. She really did have my back.


    Summoner Alfred lifted his staff and pointed it towards his fallen fairy. An intense beam of light radiated outwards. I realized that he was healing Moon Fairy. The newly invigorated monster quickly rose to her feet. Then she aimed her silvery wand at my Toad Knight. This time an extremely bright ball of energy erupted the wand. The deadly light sphere torpedoed towards my monster. Toad Knight kept his shield raised high, but the energy was much too intense. The white hot globe completely enveloped him. I watched in dismay as my little champion vanished into nothingness.


    "A very admirable showing from all of you," Summoner Alfred stroked his beard. "Each of your monsters has been returned to it''s card. Now it is up to me to decide which of you will be admitted to the Academy."


    My heart leapt up into my throat. I''d never been so nervous. All of my hopes for the future rested on this one moment. Since my rebirth on this world, I''ve only ever wanted one thing¡ª to be a Summoner! Now that the final moment had arrived, I was sick with with worry. What if I didn''t make it? No! I shook my head in defiance. I''d come too far to give up now!


    "You''ve all performed admirably," the old summoner stood before us leaning on his staff. "So I''m pleased to announce that each of you has gained admittance!"


    I couldn''t believe my ears. I''d never before heard of the Academy accepting so many students from one village at once. This had to be a mistake.


    "You have a week to ready yourselves," the Summoner Alfred continued. "Letters will be sent to each of your families, informing them what necessities you''ll need." Then he bowed ceremoniously. "Congratulations on your admission to the summoner''s Academy. We are pleased to have you."


    I couldn''t believe it! Had it really been that easy? This rushed admissions ran counter to everything I''d ever heard about the Academy. It was almost like the recruiter was relieved to find any suitable candidates at all. Yet, despite my concerns I was thrilled to have been accepted.


    "Renjie you did it!" Mai ran from the crowd and wrapped her arms around me. "I''m so proud of you little brother!"


    "I can''t believe it," I told her. I hugged my sister back. And then my thoughts drifted back to our family. Now the difficult task of telling mother and father the news was before me. I wasn''t sure how they take the news. But no matter what, this was the path I''d set for myself since being reborn on Vale. here was no way I would pass up on it now.


    "Congratulations," the tall lanky boy named Jun held out his hand.


    "You to," I took his hand and shook it vigorously. "So looks like were all going to the Academy together."


    Jun stroked his chin. "I can''t recall I''ve ever heard of an instance where so many candidates were accepted at once."


    "Me neither," Kylie, the violet eyed girl, chimed in. "It''s almost like he was desperate for recruits."


    "You scrubs better not hold me back," Karl shoved his monster card into his leather pouch. "Because it''s obvious I was better than all of you."


    "Don''t get too cocky," Kylie shot back. "We haven''t made it through Academy training yet."


    "I''ve heard they''re tough on new recruits," Jun folded his arms across his chest. "So we all better be ready."


    "I''ve heard the same thing," I nodded in response. "The Academy flunks over half its incoming class each term."


    "That''s what I mean," Kylie interrupted. "they usually only choose one top student from a single village. But in our case they picked us all."


    "I think I might know why," Mai nodded somberly. "There''s a shortage of magic!"


    "What are you talking about," I looked at my sister in surprise.


    "Well I''ve heard other merchants talking," she continued. "And they said there are entire villages where not a single magic-user can be found."


    "I''ve heard something similar," Jun agreed with her. "My father said there''s fewer magic-users born every year."


    That''s right," Mai continued. "And the various magic schools are in heavy competition for students. Not to mention the precious few capable of activating a monster card!"


    "It does make sense," I replied. "In any case, I think we should all make a pact to stick together."


    "That''s right," Jun said. "We''re all from the same village so lets stay tight at the Academy."


    "Speak for yourself," Karl turned his back and walked away. "I''m not going to be associated with you losers."


    "Wow charming," Kiley shook her head in disapproval. "What a jerk."


    "He''s always been that way," I told her. "So we''ll just forget about him. I pledge to stick with you guys no matter what. "


    We all shook hands and gathered our things. Mao put a reassuring arm around my shoulder as he walked from the village square. The stone path towards our families home, seemed even longer than before. A flood of emotions went through me. For one, I was excited to be joining the seminars Academy. It was a rare honor that very few ever attained. On the other hand, Mai''s news about the magic shortage worried me. What if magic really was disappearing from Vale? Then that meant the various magical schools would produced less cadets. Which in turn would result in weakened defenses, leaving our borders vulnerable to invaders. While the entire situation filled me with unease my excitement still high. I made it! I was going to be a summoner.