《Unique Fusion Magic Hex》 Book 1, Prologue - To Each Their Own (Pt. 0.1/0.3) Book 1 , Prologue - To Each Their Own (Pt. 0.1/0.3) "Father..." A boy, roughly the age of fourteen, was kneeling in front of a man dressed in an immaculate black suit. His body was bloody, and his clothes were in tatters.The man was looking coldly at the boy, with a silver long-sword drawn in his hand. With a vertical sweep, he knocked the boy back a meter, and sent him crashing into a nearby stone wall. "Say no more! GET OUT! From this day on, you are no longer part of my Lyos Family! You are not the son of I, Caayn Lyos!" The boy, who was currently crawling and struggling to get up, instantly went livid, and once again made a desperate attempt to plead to his father. "Father! Please! Am I not Synth Lyos, the son that your first wife and my mother gave birth to?" Upon hearing this, the expression on the man''s face changed into one of sorrow, as if he had lost something very dear and important to his heart... However, it only lasted for an instant. "Leave this place. Now. Or else, I will not hesitate to kill you." Saying no more, and no less, the boy''s father slowly walked away, with deliberate slow steps towards the family estate. With heavy steps, the boy dragged his body slowly in the opposite direction. Tears were freely flowing down from his eyes like a waterfall. "Father... am I truly useless? Is my innate talent truly that horrible, and my future so bleak, to be kicked out of the household...?" Glancing one last time at the mansion that once used to be that boy''s home, Synth clenched his teeth, took the money bag that his father had thrown at his face beforehand, and slowly left the grounds of the Lyos Family, one of the top three aristocrat families in the city of Bermil, protected against the numerous beasts that roamed the lands outside by the ''Alkkras'' barriers that were the last remains of any proof that those human ancestors of theirs, those Magic Knights, truly existed. With a self-depreciating smile still lingering on the corner of the boy''s lips, he laughed maniacally. However, his desolate laughter had a tinge of sadness intertwined with loneliness... almost as if crying out at the injustice of it all, of the game that the gods of Fate had played with his life. Under the moonlight sky, and the annual rain shower that came around every cycle of the Years, Synth swore to himself a very important promise. Hope. Stubbornness. Refusal. Indignation. Those four words were all bound within this vow, that he made to himself that sorrowful, life-changing night. "Wait for me... I will surely become... a powerful Invoker! Father... the Lyos Family... will surely regret this!" "HAUUUUUUURAGHGGGGGGGGHHHHH!" With the last desolate wail that escaped from his throat, that boy turned around and without looking back, began to slowly walk towards the Inner Ward. The Inner Ward, home of the nobles, a step below the aristocracy, yet a wide, almost insurmountable step above the commoners. Also... the place where many young men and women dreamed about going to in their wildest imaginations. The Magecroft Academy, home of those rare and elusive talents, the Invokers. Branch - 11 of the Eastern Lands. "Father... with the money you gave me, it should just be enough to pay for four years, in this place, right? I will make you regret those words that you said to me today..." Softly muttering, the boy tightly clenched the bag of Xena closer to his chest. Tears... began to fall from his eyes again. A soft word, one that would go unnoticed if one wasn''t paying attention, slowly escaped his lips. With eyes glazed over and brimming with deep emotion, the boy gazed at the sky, and the iridescent dome that seemed to stretch on forever in the dark clouds of the moonlight night... "Mother..." ______________________________________________________________ "Synth!" A young and beautiful woman was walking in an ornate, marvelously furnished garden. She exuded an elegant demeanor, with her long golden hair being gently caressed by the bright sunlight. Currently, she had a worried expression, and seemed to frantically want to find something, or someone... "Mother, do you need something?" A young boy, roughly around the age of eleven, was currently running at full speed from the nearby estate mansion to where the garden was located. When one observed his details, one would notice that he seemed almost like other similar children his age. However, the feature that would strike one the most upon further inspection would be the faint, intermittent streaks of gold in between his dark black hair. As the woman saw the boy approaching, she lightly sighed and walked over. Tapping his forehead once, she gently scolded, "Synth, now, where did you go this time? Mother has been looking all over for you for the entire morning, you know." With guileless green eyes, that young boy, Synth, stared innocently at his mother. Seeing the boy''s stare, the mother could not help but lose her angry expression, and gently ruffled the young boy''s hair. "Mother, today I went looking at the scenery of the outside Lands! It was really beautiful! Why can''t we go outside the Alkkras domes?" With an energetic expression, the boy looked at his mother eagerly, desperately wanting to know. At first, the mother was beginning to reprimand the boy for going to close to the outer borders, after seeing the cute expression that he was making, chucked instead. "Silly boy, didn''t mother tell you that outside of these Alkkras barriers that our ancestors left behind, there lies dangerous wild beasts and all sorts of creatures that could kill us humans in an instant?" The child, still not understanding the concept of ''death'' due to his age, pouted, and cutely replied, "But mother, don''t we have the Chevaliers and the Invokers protecting the human race?" "..." ______________________________________________________________ Ten-thousand years ago. The revolt of the beasts, the downfall of the golden age of humanity. The World Essence, that supported the human race, suddenly began drying up for no apparent reason. In those long lost days of old, there were legends of humans that possessed supernatural powers, and the elements themselves were at their very beck and call. If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Those people were known as the Magic Knights. The defenders of humanity, and the arbiters that decided the position that the humans would have, ruling over the various other races in the world. Those Magic Knights relied on this World Essence, to fuel their World Essence Weapons, more commonly known as Charge Drives, to fight against the beasts that inhabited the various corners of the world, while casting magics at the same time, drawing out the power of the arcane. However, with the supply of World Essence rapidly drying up due to a mysterious reason, the Magic Knights slowly lost their capability and potential... at this point in time, the beasts and other various monster-like races on the continent began to grow increasingly violent as well, to the point where they would attack any and all humans on sight. At first, the Magic Knights were able to defend themselves, using their Charge Drives imbued still with the power of the essence of the world, and the spells that the breakthrough of the arcane rift provided them. But, in time, the beasts grew smarter. They began assaulting the remaining cities in waves and droves. It soon became a battle of attrition, and very soon, the defenses of every remaining kingdom and empire were breached. Dire situations called for desperate measures. Soon, the strongest and most influential people all across the world were gathered, and together, they formed a pact. That pact stated that, it would choose three kingdoms in an empire to protect, in all the lands - The Eastern Lands, The Western Lands, The Northern Lands, and The Southern Lands. In short, after the ''war'' was over, or if it ever ended at all, there would only be twelve remaining kingdoms in the entire world. They were - in the Eastern Lands, Bermil, Tyri''ll, and Verudai. In the Western Lands, were Bnuia, Vesttiga, and Syak''il. In the Northern Lands, were Heril, Parri''k, and Desais. In the Southern Lands, were Crov''ila, Ar''isil, and Oarea. Soon after the pact, which would later be known as the Final Hope Measure, action was immediately taken. All the combat forces within those lands gathered en masse within those three kingdoms, which would later on just be known as cities. In the last battle, in the fight between the Magic Knight Squadrons and the army of the beasts, the humans were able to keep the beasts at bay for just enough time for five very powerful people to cast a joint spell, that enveloped each kingdom to form that protective barrier, later known as ''Alkkras'', with a 1028-seal formation array, a godly feat. However, in doing so, those five Magic Knights, roughly on the same caliber as a Spiritualist Invoker today, exhausted their life force along with draining the last few traces of World Energy remaining. It was then, that the war between the humans and beasts would finally be put to a standstill, and the peace that was lost could be regained, for a temporary period of time... ______________________________________________________________ The magical arrays that were used to cast spells and the Charge Drives that those Magic Knights used, were thought to be just a myth... Until on Sylar 24th, the beginning of Auugrite. It was that day, when the Lord of the City announced that, those legends from old were indeed, true. Also, it was time... to begin the counterattack against the beasts that had pushed humanity away from the territory that was rightfully theirs, and could in the end, only be theirs. World Essence Crystals. The Lord revealed that, although that there was almost no World Essence Remaining in the atmosphere, the ancestors of humanity had found a way to seal it in these special crystals, which they had left behind for the future generations. The young generation were also told that... some of them might possess the ability to Channel Energy. This meant that they would be able to stir up the World Essence sleeping within those crystals, and be able to draw out the powers and break the rifts of the arcane that their ancestors, the Magic Knights once had at their calling. That day, everyone was tested for the ability to Channel Energy, by seeing if the crystals could resonance with any of the youths that touched them. It was then shown that, roughly one in every ten-thousand had the ability to Channel Energy. However, their innate talent also had to be measured. If one''s innate talent was not high enough, they could not go on the path to become an Invoker, focusing mainly on the ''Magic'' aspect of the Magic Knights. They could only become a Chevalier, focusing on the ''Knight'' aspect of the Magic Knights. The stages of innate talent, kept from the traditions of old, were: -Null Stage - nearly none; one cannot become an Invoker and can only become a Chevalier. -Spark Stage - innate talent is terrible -Static Stage - innate talent below average -Revolving Stage - innate talent average -Flame Stage - innate talent above average -Thunderclap Stage - innate talent high -Lightning Stage - innate talent extremely high The results for this test were brutal. Roughly one out of five-hundred-thousand had talent that surpassed the Null Stage. The youths that had this special talent, were all asked one question. "Would you like to join the fight for the revenge of humanity''s oppression?" It was then that these prestigious institutes, that nurtured and fostered Invokers and Chevaliers were born. Many youths dream and yearn of having the ability to , and wish to go to these prestigious institutes. When one graduated, it was a promise, of money, fame, and power... The Magic Knight Squadron, was soon born again. However, this time, it supported two branches instead of just one. The Branch of the Invokers - the Acolytes. The Branch of the Chevaliers - the Warriors. Soon, the upcoming skirmishes between the Beasts that inhibited the barren, desolate lands and the humans, locked up within those cities protected by the barriers, would begin... Book 1, Prologue - To Each Their Own (Pt. 0.2/0.3) Book 1, Prologue - To Each Their Own (Pt. 0.2/0.3) "Mother! It should be fine to go to the other Lands if one has strong protection, right? After all, didn''t mother come from the Western Lands? Hearing this, the boy''s mother''s eyes seemed to cloud over a bit, and she turned her head towards the horizon, her gaze reminiscent of one who had lost what they had truly, and dearly loved... "Mother! I want to become the strongest Invoker! So that I can protect us when we travel back to the Western Lands to visit!" The boy''s interjection brought the woman back from her thoughts. Gently stroking the boy''s hair, the mother smiled, and said rather jovially, "Oh, is that so? But Channeling Energy is very hard, and requires both mental fortitude and patience. Even though your Innate Talent allows you to become an Invoker, the road ahead will still be tough..." "I don''t care! I will definitely become the strongest Invoker, like those Spiritualist Invokers that Father talked about in the legends!" The boy''s mother just smiled, and said nothing. She already knew what the results were of her son''s innate talent testing. The road ahead was definitely going to be tough for him, as his innate talent was at the Spark Stage, the second lowest. If he really wanted to become an Invoker, he would have to put in almost ten times as much effort as other children. In her opinion, it was better for Synth to embark on the path of a Chevalier. Chevaliers and Invokers, although their abilities sounded similar, were fundamentally different. For Invokers, their main goal towards becoming strong was to accumulate their Channeling Energy inside their body, and learn about magic arrays to cast spells, attacking the enemy mainly from a distance. Although strong, close-combat was their fatal weakness. For Chevaliers, their usage of Channeling Energy was different. They would focus it to refine the outside of their bodies, greatly strengthening their physical capabilities. They would mainly learn combat skills and weapon styles. Although strong, their greatest weakness would be distance. Their body''s physical prowess may be godly compared to an ordinary human''s. However, when faced with the terrifying magics that Invokers could cast, it was guaranteed that they would be slaughtered almost instantly, like sheep. Although there were some people who trained both as an Invoker and a Chevalier, those people were few within few, and rare within rare. The physical and mental exhaustion caused by embarking on this path were not few, and the overuse of Channeling Energy when training might be enough to kill the practitioner. This was why many Invokers did not train also as Chevaliers. Chevaliers, with their terrible latent talent, would naturally not be able to train in the ways of the Invokers. That mental and physical exhaustion would be enough to overwhelm the vast majority of practitioners. Even though one was qualified to become an Invoker as long as one''s latent talent was at the Spark Stage, it was still similar to a barrier that the practitioner could never break through. This was why sometimes, even when a person was qualified to become an Invoker, they chose to become a Chevalier instead. After all, if one''s talent wasn''t high enough, to become a powerful Invoker, would only be an unreachable dream. "Mother, what did you actually want to find me for?" Hearing this, Synth''s mother flicked the top of his forehead once, and sported an unhappy expression. Clutching his forehead in pain, he began to wail, "Mother, what was that for?" "Silly boy. Mother had been looking all over for you. Don''t you know that it''s lunch time now? Being part of aristocracy, you must always keep track of the time. After all, an aristocrat is never late." The boy''s expression changed from that of a pouting one to one of amusement. "Oh, so that was the reason mother was looking for me! I''ll head there first; on a side note, I sure am hungry! It truly is lunch time, haha!" With a few childish laughs, the boy began to run back in the direction of the gigantic estate. "Mother, I''ll go back first!" After a wave of his hand, the child kept on running straight ahead, the gentle sunlight making the golden strands in his black hair all the more luminescent. Retracting her gaze from the rapidly fading visage of her son, the woman turned back around towards the garden. Bending down and picking up a flower, the woman unhappily muttered, "Synth, you spoiled brat. You should really give up those hopes of becoming an Invoker, and pursing the righteous path of becoming a Chevalier instead. Your mother, Cynthia Lyos, after all, was once a very strong Chevalier from the North, and she can guide you down this path..." Lightly tapping the seemingly simple ring on her index finger, a mysterious rapier suddenly flew out and landed in her hands. Gently caressing the blade, the woman let out a soft sigh. Unbeknownst to her own son, the woman was once a legendary figure in the Western Lands... The Three-star General, Cynthia Lyos, who was known for her speed, grace, and agility while fighting, along with her almost unparalleled strength. One of the Five Core Guardians of the city of Desais. Also, the only disciple of the Soundless Sword Master, having inherited an ancient, secret sword style from him, the Lightspeed Talon. ___________________________________________________________ ¡°Mother¡­ you, three years ago, after that day, suddenly disappeared. You only left behind a mysterious ring, and nothing else. You didn¡¯t even leave me a note stating the reason for your disappearance¡­¡± Remembering the last encounter that he had with his mother before she mysteriously disappeared, Synth let out a soft, mourning cry in the depths of his heart. She didn¡¯t even leave a note, nor any trace of her whereabouts. The only thing she left was the mysterious ring that she always wore on her right hand¡¯s index finger. ¡°¡­¡± Slowly getting up, amidst the pouring rain, Synth began making his way towards the Inner Ward. No matter what, he had to consider his options now. He was kicked out of the Lyos Family, and his father had disowned him. The only thing that he could do currently was to find a temporary place to live, and wait until the entrance examination for the Magecroft Academy. Even if his talent was horrible, he was still able to become an Invoker. Naturally, he shouldn¡¯t be rejected from the application process for applying to the academy. However, it meant that the odds of being accepted were significantly lessened for someone of his caliber. Recalling these facts, Synth let out a long, slow sigh. ¡°My odds of being accepted into that institute should be around 12%...¡± Not a great ratio, but it was still better than nothing. Also, he still had the bag of Xena that his father had thrown at him before telling him to leave the family grounds. Remembering this, Synth quickly opened the bag. The faint glint of the green metal coins could be faintly seen under the glow of the moonlight. ¡°Roughly around ten Bryu. This should be enough to pay for two years, at the very least.¡± The currency in the Eastern Lands was based on the base currency, Ryyl. It was a bluish-purple metal that could be easily pounded into a coin. 100 Ryyl was equal to one Vuun, a light silver metal coin that was slightly heavier than a coin of Ryyl, but sported a smaller size. 100 Vuun was equal to one Gulo, a yellow coin with a brilliant luster made from pure gold. 100 Gulo was equal to one Xena, a light green metal coin that was surprisingly light for its size. 100 Xena was equal to one Bryu, a dark black coin that seemed to be made from platinum ore. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.100 Bryu was equal to one Occ¡¯na, a rare red-green metal, that seemed to be a combination of red diamond and green jade. Those were the currencies in the Eastern Lands. Although, besides looking pretty, they didn¡¯t really serve much purpose otherwise. Coins were also a hassle to carry around, so most people used carried around Bank Cards, which were almost a hundred times more convenient. In other words, what was in the bag that his father had thrown at him was roughly 1000 Xena. ¡°Damn, such a large amount of money. Father, why couldn¡¯t you just give me a Bank Card instead of all these coins? Do you want your ¡®former¡¯ son to get robbed or something?¡± Making his way towards the Inner Ward, he was glad that it was now nighttime, and many people were already in their beds and not roaming the streets. Otherwise, with his sorry appearance, it was an undoubted fact that many people would question what he was doing here and would call the guards. Although Synth had lived a mostly sheltered life, he had still wandered inside the Inner Ward a countless number of times, to go on a walk. Also, when he was younger, he would cross from the Aristocracy grounds into the Inner Ward, and go all the way past the Outer Ward to the borders of the giant Alkkras domes in order to glimpse a view of the outside world. Naturally, he knew his way around, and where the Magecroft Academy was located. Travelling past the many neat and tidy houses in the area, Synth began to gradually walk further and further westwards until he had reached the homes of the richest people in the Inner Ward. Naturally, the aristocracy had a social hierarchy within their grounds as well, not to mention the Inner Ward and the Outer Ward, where the commoners and low nobles lived. In the Inner Ward, the medium-ranked nobles usually lived on the outskirts, the high ranked nobles living in the middle of the Inner Ward, and the grand nobles living in the innermost areas. As a prestigious institute, naturally the Magecroft Academy would be located in the richest and most influential area of the Inner Ward. The reason why it was not located in the Aristocrat Grounds was because the aristocratic families refused to have their grounds become an aggregation for people lower ranked than them. Honor, pride and rank were three traits that almost anyone of nobility shared, and there were lines that must not be crossed. Synth was currently wandering around the Inner Ward, keeping low and mainly staying to the shadows. With his current appearance, he resembled a commoner, and not someone who was a noble, much less an aristocrat. It would be really bad if someone noticed him and called the guards over, since his father had disowned him, and he was technically not part of the aristocracy anymore. Naturally, a commoner would not be allowed in the Inner Ward, much less the inner grounds of the Inner Ward. If he were to be caught, the consequences would, at the very lightest, be being beaten in public and fined heavily. The tougher punishments would be serving jail time, and if one committed an extremely notorious act, death would be the punishment. ¡°I didn¡¯t have time to get a change of spare clothes¡­¡± Synth, knowing this due to the many classes in social manners and etiquette that he had to sit through being part of the aristocracy, wryly chuckled. After all, he was kicked out of the household after being beaten viciously. How would be have the spare time to go to his room and grab a change of clothes? ¡°At least the annual rain shower is washing away the filth on my body.¡± Clutching the bag of Xena even tighter under his clothes, Synth began to quicken his pace. The Magecroft Academy was located on top of a mountain near the very end of the inner grounds of the Inner Ward. No matter what, he had to get there before anyone saw his ragged appearance and a misunderstanding would occur. Although the Magecroft Academy accepted all students as long as their innate talent was at the Spark Stage, for a commoner or low noble to cross into the Inner Ward would require them having a special permit that the Academy would send them. Middle ranking and high ranking nobles could enter the inner grounds, but would just be looked at with disdain. Anyone with a rank equal to or above a grand noble was normally greeted with many smiling faces as they went past the inner grounds on their way to the Academy. The social hierarchy was not something to be taken lightly. If one was a commoner, they would stay out of the nobles¡¯ way. If one¡¯s ranking as a noble was lower than someone else¡¯s, then one would stay out of their way. And if one was part of aristocracy, many people would try to build up a good relationship with them and flatter them. Such was the way of the world. Moving briskly and quietly and avoiding the main streets, Synth moved closer and closer to where he last remembered the location of the Magecroft Academy was. After all, he had always wanted to become an Invoker, and had paid a few visits there. Of course, that was when he was still part of the aristocracy. However, one could not enroll until they were fourteen years old. This was the ironclad rule set by the founders of the Magecroft Academy, as when one was an adolescent was the time where their training speed would advance the quickest. Being a prestigious academy, they also had a reputation to maintain, and could not produce too many inferior students. Naturally, the requirements to graduate were also extremely harsh. By the age of twenty, if a student had not advanced to the rank of a Movement Invoker, they would be kicked out of the academy. In addition, the tuition for one year was an astonishing amount of money, equal to almost two thirds of a year¡¯s wages of a low noble, one Bryu. As Synth was getting closer and closer to the location where he remembered the Magecroft Academy to be, the houses that he saw also became larger, grander, and more ornate. ¡°After entering the inner grounds, turn right and keep on going straight. This path should lead to a mountain peak, and on top of the mountain is the academy.¡± Quietly muttering the directions leading to the academy, Synth temporarily forgot about the hurt that had been inflicted upon him by his father, and his chest became fluttery. What was life going to be like in this prestigious institute? Only time could tell. Just when he was caught up in his thoughts of becoming a strong, respected Invoker that even the teachers of the academy respected and looked up to, the voice of what seemed to be a young woman suddenly rang in his ears. ¡°Ah, patrol duty is so boring. That stupid academy, forcing me to do this for ¡®community service¡¯, ¡®gaining a good image for the school¡¯ and whatnot¡­¡± Quickly turning the opposite direction of where he had heard the voice coming from and hiding behind a corner, Synth breathed out a sigh of relief for managing to escape detection. However, what he didn¡¯t know was that because of the sudden panic attack that he had suffered, he actually ran in the direction of where he had heard the voice. ¡°What is a COMMONER doing here, in the inner grounds of the Inner Ward?¡± The indignant shout behind him caused Synth to shiver and involuntarily turn around. What he saw was something that made him shiver even more due to his fear. Due to his excitement, Synth had forgotten about something, something very important¡­ The guards usually roamed the areas around the Inner Wards at midnight all the way until two o¡¯clock! He had arrived in the inner grounds just in time for the patrols to start! ¡°Uh, big sis, I¡¯m afraid that you are misunderstanding something¡­¡± With a forehead full of sweat, Synth awkwardly smiled, trying to think of ways to get him out of the situation that he had dug himself into. ¡°What misunderstanding? It seems like you don¡¯t know your place, you commoner!¡± The woman behind him suddenly pulled out a broadsword, its silver-red glint reflected by the light of the moon. Seeing this, Synth wasted no more words and began running as fast as he could away from the terrifying presence behind him. Snickering, the woman gave chase, an indignant expression still written all over her face. ¡°It seems like you need some disciplining. After I¡¯m done with you, don¡¯t even think about going ¡®back¡¯ to the Outer Wards and resuming your calm life. I promise that I, Lilia Synclaw, will definitely make your act of ignoring the social hierarchy one that your entire family will regret!¡± Book 1, Prologue - To Each Their Own (Pt. 0.3/0.3) Read it also on the WuxiaWorld Forums or the website :3 ________________________________________________ Book 1, Prologue - To Each Their Own (0.3/0.3) Damn, this isn''t good! I can''t get caught! If I do, this will truly be the end of my existence! I will die! With the way the world works, crossing the social boundary is a taboo, the gravest of sins! Running as fast as his legs could carry him, Synth was weaving in and out of alleyways, doing his best to maintain his sense of direction while fearfully trying to escape detection from the ruthless woman pursuing behind him. Although he was only fourteen years old, Synth looked slightly older due to the constant training that his mother had him undergo when he was younger. For some reason, even though he told his mother about his goal of becoming an Invoker, she had still forced him to practice martial arts and to strengthen his body through daily and repeated exercise. Therefore, his muscles were well honed. Although they didn''t bulge, under the fabric of his clothes, one could still see the faint lines of his arm and chest muscles. Synth had hated doing these exercises, and whenever he could, would always find an excuse to slack off or not do them at all. His mother got extremely angry at him when he did so, so later he would train everyday. However, most of the time, it was just half-hearted practice. After his mother had left him, he began to diligently train. This was because Synth wanted to show honor towards his mother, and training the body was the only thing that really seemed to matter to her, along with caring for her son. Clenching his teeth as he could feel the woman catching up to him, a glitter suddenly appeared in his eyes. If one looked closer, one would be able to tell that that faint glimmer in his eyes was the light of determination... "Mother... your son will not fail you. I will live up to your expectations. In order to do that, I can''t be caught here!" Making a few quick left turns and another right, Synth was able to smoothly maneuver through the street roads in the Inner Ward. However, what he didn''t know was that the woman who was chasing after his was already a three-star Magic Combatant! Although being a patrol guard in the inner grounds of the Inner Ward required one to be at least a two-star Magic Soldier, she was only here because of the duty that her father entrusted her to do. Synclaw. If Synth had heard her name clearly, he would probably have been shocked beyond comparison. The Synclaw Family was the family that was in charge of maintaining and operating the Magecroft Academy''s Branch 11! In other words, she was probably most likely related to William Synclaw, the head of the Synclaw Family, and also the school head of the Branch Academy! Both Chevaliers and Invokers had a ranking system, directly related to the accumulation of Channeling Energy that was within their body in the dantain region or on the outside of the body, forming a protective battle-qi around it. There were nine ranks in total, and each rank was divided into zero to five stars. Although a Magic Combatant was the second ranking for Chevaliers on the totem pole, to be a three-star Magic Combatant given the woman''s age was something to be proud of. She looked to be roughly around sixteen years old, yet she was already a three-star Magic Combatant! Only top academies could foster talents such as her. It must be known that becoming a three-star Magic Combatant was something that people normally would be able to accomplish at the age of twenty-two! Yet, this woman, six years younger than the standard, actually possessed such terrifying strength. When one also thinks about how the Academy that fostered such a monster was actually just a branch academy, one would be shocked beyond comparison. Naturally, with her being at this level of attainment, her stamina, agility, physical prowess, and speed were much higher than Synth''s. Although he was making use of the darkness and the narrow paths to confuse her, that could not last for long. In around ten breaths of time, Synth felt a very cold aura drawing closer and closer to him... Although this took a long time to explain, in reality, the whole chase only lasted a few seconds. Just as he was about to try to lose her again by sidestepping into another road, Synth felt a cold grasp on the collar of his shirt, and was pulled backwards. Although Synth had not stepped into the boundary of becoming an Invoker or a Chevalier yet, the sheer pressure that was emanated from the woman¡¯s Energy Base of a five-star Magic Combatant caused him to break out in a cold sweat. "Umm... I can explain what I was doing here?" A cold voice behind him cut him off. "There''s no need for you to waste words. You can tell it to the officials in charge of the Inner Ward.¡± Just as Synth was trying to come up with excuses, he found himself being restrained and dragged with extraordinary force by the guard woman. ¡°Hey! Stop this! I can truly explain what I was doing here!¡± The woman turned around and her lips curved upwards into a smirk. ¡°Oh, really? Then would you care to explain?¡± The woman let go of him, and Synth found that he was able to freely control his body again. Realizing this, he sighed in relief. The thought of running away flashed in his mind for a split second. However, remembering the extraordinary strength that this woman displayed and her speed, the notion disappeared almost as quickly as he thought about it. With his current methods, it would be impossible to do so. Even more, if he really did try to run away, he most likely wouldn¡¯t be given a second chance to explain himself. ¡°Big sis, I¡¯m actually here because I¡¯m applying to the Magecroft Academy.¡± Hearing this, a look of astonishment mixed with hatred appeared on her face. However, it disappeared in an instant, and quickly switched to one brimming with curiosity. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re applying to the Magecroft Academy? Why are you here so late at night, however? The entrance exams start tomorrow, you know.¡± ¡°Ah, well you see, since I live in an area that¡¯s somewhat far away from the Inner Ward, my parents sent me out to come here earlier so that I could reach the mountain peak where the Academy is located by morning.¡± The woman¡¯s expression changed to a frown. This commoner kid. Doesn¡¯t he know that he needs a permit from the Academy in order to even be here? He thinks I¡¯m a fool, right? With that thought in her head, Lilia¡¯s lips instantly curved upwards into a smirk again. ¡°Don¡¯t you know that you need a special permit signed by a teacher or a school head of the Magecroft Academy to have permission to enter these grounds?¡± This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Synth¡¯s expression instantly froze, as this was the question that he had dreaded the most. He really had no way to prove that he was officially allowed to take the entrance examination for the academy, as until now, he had not even thought about applying. ¡°Uh, big sis, I¡­¡± Just as the woman began closing in on him, Synth reached both of his hands into his pockets out of nervousness. However, what he found in there made him sigh in relief. I¡¯m such an idiot. How could I forget? Even though technically I¡¯m not part of the Lyos Household anymore, I can still use the insignia badge that the Lyos family gives its members! Quickly pulling out the familiar golden object from his pocket, Synth turned around quickly towards the woman. With a critical look, he reprimanded, ¡°Enough of this charade. Unless you are truly blind, then you will be able to recognize this symbol.¡± The woman now was looking at Synth in shock. Or more specifically, the insignia in his right hand. It must be known that although all family members of the Lyos Household had an emblem that they carried around, there was a color ranking in place as well. Silver was for the servants, Gold for the family branch, and Blood Gold for the main family. What Synth had just pulled out was a Gold colored emblem! Although it wasn¡¯t a Blood Gold Emblem, just being in the branch family of the Lyos Household was more than enough to stupefy the woman in place. What sort of existence was the Lyos Family? They had enough power and affluence to become one of the top three powers in the entire city of Verudai! Even though she was part of the Synclaw family, and had an extremely prestigious reputation, it was wise to not offend one of the top three powers. However, isn¡¯t his change of personality too quick? Something¡¯s fishy here¡­ ¡°Hey, can you bring me to the academy grounds? I plan on camping outside for the night, and I¡¯m somewhat afraid of the dark¡­ big sis, since you¡¯re a patrol guard, safety for the citizens is a golden rule, right?¡± Synth¡¯s comment woke Lilia up from her thoughts. Hearing his request, her expression changed dramatically, but then glancing at the Gold Emblem in his hands again, resumed an impartial expression. This boy, what does he take me to be, an errand runner? Although I smell a rat, I can¡¯t really do anything in the current situation. I¡¯ll play along for now, and investigate it later. It was understandable for Lilia to get upset and offended. After all, Synth¡¯s request was literally asking her to be his bodyguard. Who was she? She was the daughter of the school head of the Magecroft Academy¡¯s 11th Branch! Although her status would match that of Synth¡¯s, her father had always told her one thing. ¡°No matter what, do not make enemies with the three top powers in this city. Although we may not be able to foster a friendly relationship with them, at least don¡¯t turn them hostile.¡± Only able to clench her hands in indignation, Lilia strained a smile, and extended her hand to Synth. ¡°Ahh, so that¡¯s how it is. Don¡¯t worry; big sis will protect you on your way to the academy.¡± Grabbing her hand, Synth made a relieved expression. If she had not believed him and had turned hostile, his critical situation truly would have gone downhill. With a somewhat fake ¡®grateful¡¯ smile, Synth indifferently said, ¡°Sorry to trouble you.¡± Clenching her free hand again due to Synth¡¯s nonchalant response, Lilia began to see red, but quickly suppressed her emotions down. That half-hearted apology was very, very offensive to her. It was already bad enough that she had to act as a bodyguard for this kid, and him acting the way he did was truly getting on her nerves. In reality however, Synth could not really be blamed for this. Although part of an aristocratic family, he had almost no social skills. His father had taught him to look down on people of lower status than you, and the arrogance and aloofness of aristocracy was firmly and thoroughly bred into his bones. It was already a miracle that he could muster out a few sentences not brimming with arrogance. Women¡­ are hard to deal with. Or maybe my social skills just suck¡­ This thought in his mind, Synth followed Lilia towards the way to the mountain. ___________________________________________________________ On the way to the academy, Lilia tried many times to ask questions that would give her some clues about Synth¡¯s situation. However, no matter what she tried, Synth was similar to a steady boulder. Unyielding and tenacious, and hiding his secrets inside him. This only served to annoy her even more, and when they finally arrived at the base of the mountain, she was glad to get rid of him. ¡°This is the mountain upon which the Magecroft Academy is located upon. Take care on the way up.¡± With a few simple words, Lilia left Synth standing dumbfounded on the mountain base. She was determined to find out just who that boy was, and to unravel the secrets that she had not managed to extract from Synth personally. None of this was on Synth¡¯s mind, however. What was currently occupying his mind was a single thought, upon looking at the fifty-meter mountain that he was facing, with a faint outline of what seemed to be a building at the very top, hidden amidst the foggy clouds and the drizzling rain. How am I supposed to climb that by myself? What the heck? This is absurd! Just as Synth was about to turn around and ask the woman if she could bring him up there, he realized that she had already left long ago. With a short sigh, he turned around and began trudging up the mountain, under the rain. What would life be like here, in a place as this, which nurtured such talents? Although Synth was qualified to become an Invoker, his talent was still, after all, just at the Spark Stage. It was going to be hard for him to break through to become anything higher than a low-rank Movement Invoker. Although just becoming a Movement Invoker before the age of twenty was the requirement to graduate from the Magecroft Academy, with Synth¡¯s talent, it would be extremely hard to accomplish this, and it was hard to say whether or not he would even be able to break through from being a Mind Invoker into becoming a Will Invoker. However, if one was not a Movement Invoker by the time they turned twenty, they had one last chance to officially graduate. That was to challenge one of the students that did officially graduate, and to win against them! However, the gap between a Will Invoker and a Movement Invoker was too wide. It wasn¡¯t just the difference of a star; it was the difference of a whole realm! A Movement Invoker¡¯s Channeling Energy was much purer and more abundant than a Will Invoker¡¯s, which made it almost impossible for a Will Invoker to beat a Movement Invoker. After all, Invokers relied on their Channeling Energy to cast devastating spells to ravage the enemy. When one runs out of their Energy in the middle of a battle, it could potentially lead to a lethal injury. Trudging at a manageable pace, Synth slowly made his way towards the mountain peak, where the faint outline of the Academy building was, off in the distance hidden behind the murky clouds. UFMH - Rankings + Other Information UFMH - Rankings + Misc. ___________________________________________ Spell Ranks (all tiers divided into three ranks, low, middle, high) -Coalescing -Destruction -Calamity -Pandemonium -Insanity -Downfall (Forbidden) _________________________________________ Magical Arrays -Seals make up patterns, patterns make symbols, symbols make formations, combined formations make arrays Seals are made from runic letters belonging to the ancient language; the runes that the human ancestors left behind contain traces of World Essence Patterns are to amplify the effects of seals Symbols are to put the patterns into use Formations are to stabilize the casting process of the spell Arrays are to actually be able to cast the spell _________________________________________ Innate Talent Rankings -Null Stage - not qualified to become an Invoker; still able to become a Chevalier -Spark Stage - innate talent is terrible -Static Stage - innate talent below average -Revolving Stage - innate talent average -Flame Stage - innate talent above average -Thunderclap Stage - innate talent high -Lightning Stage - innate talent extremely high _________________________________________ Channeling Energy Rankings (divided from no stars - 5 stars) Invoker Rankings Mind Invoker Will Invoker Movement Invoker Natural Invoker Soul Invoker Tempest Invoker Chaotic Invoker Godly Invoker Spiritualist Invoker Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings._________________________________________ Chevalier Rankings Magic Fighter Magic Combatant Magic Soldier Lieutenant Veteran Commander General Essence Commander Essence War-Master _________________________________________ World Essence Crystals Low tier Middle tier High tier Supreme tier Flawless tier _________________________________________ Currency Basis of currency is Ryyl 100 Ryyl = Vuun 100 Vuun = Gulo 100 Gulo = Xena 100 Xena = Bryu 100 Bryu = Occ''na _________________________________________ Seasons and Calendar Auugrite - Winter Novil - Spring Sundra - Summer Auderi - Fall _________________________________________ Every month lasts thirty days, nine months make up a year _________________________________________ Jaan - Jan Rylt''k - Feb Marr - March Juvo - May Riluna - June Zoaun - July Eqquii - Sept Sylar - Oct Naair - Nov Book 1, Chapter 1 - Truth and Consequence (Pt. 1.1/1.3) Enjoy the (part) of a Chapter! Also, read it on the WuxiaWorld Forums or the website as well :D There will be teasers post on the WW Forums! __________________________________________________ Book 1, Chapter 1 - Truth and Consequence (1.1/1.3) "Ugh. Finally, I''m here." A youth, looking to be roughly the age of fourteen was standing on the top of a mountain peak, an exhausted expression on his face. One could tell just from the way he moved how tired he was, and the worn out clothes that he was wearing only enforced the image. He was currently gazing reverently at the red archway gate in front of him. It looked to be a set of ancient, stone doors, tainted slightly red by the passage of time and the weathering of the seasons. Slightly above the door was a slender blue arc, seeming to be made from some type of blue gemstone, and spanning roughly the same length as the sides of the stone doors, one leg each resting neatly on top of each door. It also exuded an ancient, powerful aura that made it seem almost as if it had survived for decades. However, the strange runic symbols engraved all over the doors and arc-way seemed to sport no signs of wear, as if they were recently just placed there. The youth, never taking his eyes off the splendor of the image in front of him, let out a sigh of admiration while enjoying the scenery around the gate as well. With luscious grasses and trees everywhere, and the chirping birds warbling their unceasing songs just slightly under the clouds, it was truly a magnificent sight to behold. Soon, voices came from behind the youth, and knocked him out of his stupor. "Entrance Examination day... I really hope that I get accepted!" "This is the Magecroft Academy... wow..." "Just seeing the gate being so grand, I wonder just how magnificent the inside of the academy will look?" Those voices were from other young boys and girls who were also standing right outside the gateway as well. Taking a quick glance at the sun, the youth with the tired expression instantly widened his eyes, an expression of astonishment on his face. My trek up this mountain took four hours? It''s already 10''o-clock! No wonder why I''m exhausted! Jeez, Why did the academy have to be built on a 100-meter high mountain?!? Sighing, the youth redirected his gaze back towards the academy gates, patiently waiting until the gates would open. ___________________________________________________________ Ding... ding... ding... The loud, booming sound of a bell could be heard in the distance. When one looked closer, they would be able to trace its origin to a simple-looking tall mountain that one would just glance over due to its mundane atmosphere. However, on that mountain was the prestigious institute, the Magecroft Academy''s 11th Branch. Currently, many people were in a line right outside the giant stone doors blocking the academy from the outside world. "Ah! The gates are opening! The entrance examination is starting!" "Hurry! Let''s go in!" Amidst the clamor of the other youths all excitedly rushing through the faintly open stone gates, Synth was currently standing at the back. It must be known that although in the Magecroft Academy, social status did not matter and only the achievements of the pupils would determine their social position, these social boundaries were truly not something to be lightly crossed. After all, if one offended someone from a very influential or powerful family, they would be subjected to all sorts of detrimental means and would receive the ill-will of the other party. If per chance, a commoner happened to offend a noble, even though inter-school duels were not allowed without the consent of both parties and students fighting with each other was not permitted, that did not mean that the commoner''s family would also be able to live under this protection. If that noble told his family about his ire, it was almost guaranteed that his family would not stay quiet and would make a move against the person that had offended their young master. This was why when the bells began to ring, the commoners stood behind the nobles and watched them go in first. Nobody wanted to accidentally incite the temper of the nobles. If they did so, it would lead to very serious consequences. Although Synth technically could still use the badge of the Lyos Family to charge in first among the rest of the nobles, with his ragged appearance, he truly did look similar to a commoner. His father had beaten him rather viciously before kicking him out of the household, and his clothes were not in good condition. Also, the risk versus reward was not worth it. Synth would rather wait in line with the commoners and enter later than charge in with the nobles and risk potentially inciting their fury. Even though Synth truly hated associating with the ''common'' people, as he was bred in the height of aristocracy, he could only grit his teeth and endure it. The other reason why he had decided against it was because technically he was not part of the Lyos Family anymore. If his father had already announced that he had disowned his son, then the situation could turn troublesome if he tried to use the Gold Emblem. Finally, all the nobles were done entering, and soon the commoners began going in as well. One could tell a person''s social status rather easily, as the commoners wore rather simple clothing, while the nobles wore clothing that was much more ornate, and the expressions that they carried, as if they looked down on the entire world. Naturally, being part of the aristocracy for almost all of his life, Synth was no exception to this ironclad rule. Although his tattered clothes made him resemble someone of lowly status, the arrogant and haughty air that he carried still made people shiver in fear when they cast their eyes on him. Some even made a mental note that he was not someone to be taken lightly. However, Synth was completely oblivious to all of this. The only thing that was currently on his mind was the academy. Soon, everybody that came for the entrance examination was ushered inside, and the splendor of the academy grounds were in full display in front of them. Although the Magecroft Academy was built on a mountain, lush vegetation still grew everywhere, and verdant green trees could be seen surrounding the youths. It was truly a magnificent sight to behold, and it did not let expectations down. This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Walking on the pathway in front of the youths, they soon reached what appeared to be a large courtyard. There was a rather grim-looking man standing on the platform in the middle of the courtyard, and on his right was a crystal ball. Three guards wearing a azure-white uniform were standing at the base of the platform, with their spears in hand, undoubtedly to guard the man next to the crystal ball. Sweeping his cold gaze over the murmuring students, the man frowned, and gestured for for everyone to be silent. The youths who noticed this immediately grew quiet, and the remaining talking students soon noticed and stopped chatting as well. Seeing that everyone was now quiet, the man nodded to the guards. All three of the guards stepped in front of the crowd of students in unison, and one of them came up to the very front. Clearing his throat, he announced, "Listen up. Today is entrance examination day, as many of you are aware of, for the Magecroft Academy''s 11th Branch. In order to properly assess your talents and affinities, we need you to undergo an examination. When it is your turn, walk up to the crystal ball and place one hand on it. That will tell us what your latent talent is and what your magical affinities are. If you don''t meet a certain standard, you will be asked to leave." "Also, if one''s potential is considered great by one of our teachers, the four-star Natural Invoker that you currently see standing on the platform, it is possible to get a scholarship, and be exempt from having to pay tuition. Otherwise, tuition for a year is one Bryu." One year? One Bryu? That''s crazy expensive! Can commoners even afford this exorbitant price? My estimate was off, but in a good way. With the money Father gave me, it can actually last for ten years! Just as Synth was feeling shocked by the price of the tuition for one year, the cold, somber voice of the guard pulled him back from his inner thoughts. "Starting now, everyone line up in a single file line to be examined." The nobles began rushing towards the front, and the commoners silently waited for their turn. Although the guard had not said it, the words "Keep in mind the social hierarchy" still was an unsaid law. Naturally, everybody understood this message and got into proper order. Synth was somewhere close to the very back of the line, silently observing the people that were going up. The first youth that went up to the stone ball was tall and handsome, while wearing an immaculate white blazer faintly adorned on the sides with gold. Where the breast pocket should be, instead was a symbol of a snake devouring a cloud. From this, one could instantly tell what sort of family he came from. The Devouring Heaven Sect. Although this sect was not as powerful as an aristocratic family, it still had quite a bit of influence. After all, a grand noble had founded the Sect. In the city of Verudai, not many people had the courage nor power to go against a grand noble! They were only ranked under the aristocracy, and nobles of lower status did not dare to provoke the disciples of the Sect. However, the reason why the Sect was founded was because the grand noble had an argument with one of his rivals, about which person was stronger and could lead a more powerful group of people. In a sense, it was almost as if that person was trying to raise his own personal army for a rebellion, which caused the officials and magistrates of the city to keep a close tab on them, and the other group that his rival had formed, the Conquering Earth Sect. Although it was in the ''gray-zone'' of the law, the Sect was an existence that not many people dared provoke. Judging from his attire, the youth should be a child between two inner branch members of the Sect, and enjoyed a high position due to the strength of his parents. Walking up confidently towards the crystal ball, the youth reached out a hand and placed it on top of the crystal. The crystal seemed to faze out for a second, before returning to its normal calm. On the outside, not much had changed regarding the crystal''s properties. The man referred to by the guards as a institute teacher, turned towards his right side and looked disapprovingly at the crystal ball. Placing his hand in the air, he boldly announced the results of the youth''s examination. "Age - 15! Innate Talent Stage - Null! Affinities - None! Not qualified to become an Invoker!" Hearing this, the youth immediately got on his knees and begged, "Please, won''t you reconsider this? This junior, Quinn Marks, is after all, part of the Devouring Heaven Sect, and is high-ranked within the Sect! If you bend the rules a bit and let me in, I would be eternally grateful to Senior." The man frowned, and pushed the youth aside. He was currently displaying an indignant expression, and replied angrily, "What do you take me for? Someone who will succumb to threats and bribes? Boy, do you know where you currently are at? This is the Magecroft Academy, one of the prestigious institutes that nurture the highest-quality Invokers! You think that just for you, I would bend the rules like this? Get out of my sight." Quinn once again desperately pleaded, "Senior, please. Just let me pass. I''m willing to pay double the tuition price! Even triple! I can also guarantee that Senior will also earn the gratitude of the Devouring Heaven Sect!" The instructor grew even more enraged upon hearing these shameless words coming out from the youth''s mouth. Waving his hand once again in a dismissive gesture, he almost shouted in a voice hoarse from rage, "With your talent, you are still able to apply to the Vanguard Academy that trains Chevaliers. If one more word comes from you, I will personally make sure that you lose this chance as well. Now, step down." Quinn''s face instantly changed color, and quickly backed down. What the instructor had said was true. Even though he was not qualified to become an Invoker, since he still could Channel Energy, he still had a future as a Chevalier. Naturally, he would not want to lose this chance as well, and he dejectedly left the platform. The other youths all watching this display were all dumbfounded. Just what type of backing did that person have? He was the child of two inner branch members of the Devouring Heaven Sect, yet he had such a timid expression when pleading to the instructor. Just how powerful was the Magecroft Academy exactly, to not fear the wrath of a grand noble? Ignoring the stunned gazes from the youths, the instructor once again turned around to look at the mass of children standing before him, and announced with a loud, booming voice, "Listen up. No matter your background, from commoner to aristocrat, if your talent is not good enough, you WILL NOT be accepted into the academy!" Synth''s forehead began to brim with sweat. He at first, had thought about bribing his way into enrollment if things did not turn out so well. However, the words that the elder had said and his fearless display of telling a member of the Devouring Heaven Sect to leave made all notions of this idea exit his mind. Wiping his brow and resuming his position in the long line of other hopeful youths, Synth began to contemplate his options. After a long time of thinking, there were only two words that he could say about this entrance examination. ''Truly brutal''! Book 1, Chapter 1 - Truth and Consequence (Pt. 1.2/1.3) Chapter''s out! Enjoy! Read also on the website or the WuxiaWorld Forums! ____________________________________________________________ Book 1, Chapter 1 - Truth and Consequence (1.2/1.3) "Next!" The indifferent voice of the guards brought many of the youths back to reality, waking them up from their stupor. The next person in line silently got up onto the platform, and wordlessly placed his hand on top of the crystal ball. Like before, the crystal ball silently flickered before resuming its normal calm. Looking at the results, the instructor once again announced them in a bold voice. "Age - 14! Talent Stage - None! Affinities - None! Not qualified to become an Invoker!" The youth silently got off the platform, and left without a word. After witnessing the previous display, nobody would dare beg admission into the academy, nobles and commoners alike. "Age - 15! Talent Stage - Null! Affinities - None! Not qualified to become an Invoker!" "Age - 14! Talent Stage - Spark! Affinities - None! Qualified to become an Invoker!" "Age - 15! Talent Stage - Revolving! Affinities - Darkness! Qualified to become an Invoker!" The examination continued in this fashion, and the results at the end were appalling. Only one out of every three hundred or so people had latent talent with Channeling Energy at all, while one out of a hundred seemed to possess talent that surpassed the Null Stage. Even though these odds were truly rough, it was still much better when compared to the average ratio of people with latent talent to people without in the city. From the few thousand students who came here, only roughly five hundred or so were still remaining. Naturally, Synth was among those remaining, although he was placed in the last group. He also found out a pleasant surprise when it was his turn to be examined - that he had dual element affinities! "Age - 14! Talent Stage - Spark! Affinities - Fire, Light! Qualified to become an Invoker!" Although Invokers could cast spells of all elements regardless of their affinity, having affinity towards an element naturally would amplify the effect of the spell if it was that particular element. However, to be able to have affinities required one to have the talent of at least the Spark Stage, and was still rare to have an affinity, nonetheless. Synth had affinity towards the fire and light elements, and even though his latent talent was only at the Spark Stage, he still would have an advantage over his peers at the same level due to his affinities. In the group of students that got tested, only six of them had any affinity at all, out of the few thousand that came. This showed how rare having an affinity towards an element was, not to mention having dual-affinities! If Synth was to cast a light-based spell and his opponent was to cast the same one, due to having an affinity with the light elements, Synth''s spell would be at least 50% more powerful than the other caster''s! After the examination was over and the people who were not qualified had left, the instructor turned around and swept his gaze over the few hundred youths that remained. Clearing his throat, he announced, "You all are qualified to become Invokers! However, some have talent better than others, and naturally we will provide benefits for those who scored better in the entrance exam. Those having innate talent above the Revolving stage will have their tuition waived, and those who have talent at the Revolving Stage will have their tuition halved!" Oh, this guy is quite generous. Maybe my tuition will be discounted as well? Just as Synth was beginning to praise how generous the instructor was being in his mind, and daydreaming about a discount from the tuition price, the next words that the instructor spoke left him dumbfounded. "For those of you under the Revolving Stage, you will have to pay double or triple the tuition price! Those at the Static Stage will pay double, and those at the Spark Stage will pay triple, if you want a spot in our academy!" Just as Synth and many others were about to protest, the instructor waved his hand in a silencing gesture. Steeling his gaze over the group that Synth was in, the instructor said, "Listen. You all are already very lucky that we have extra vacant dorms at the academy grounds to live in, because normally, with your talent, it would be impossible for our academy to accept you." "At best, you could go to some second-rate school, and the Magecroft Academy would be a far cry for all of you. However, this is a rare opportunity, as this year''s seniors have graduated, and there are not enough people to completely occupy all of the available dorms. Seeing that you all are still qualified to become Invokers, we are making a special exception and allowing you a spot in our academy." "Do you see how generous we are being already? Normally, we would only accept students from the first and second group, and dismiss those in the third group right away. Compared to more promising students, you are all just ants, not worthy of even being stepped on!" This short tirade almost made the three hundred-some students in the third group become scarlet in rage, but they knew that what the instructor was saying did make sense. After all, the Magecroft Academy was a first-rate school, and naturally the bar for admission would be set high. Now, they were being given a chance to enroll in this place where normally they would not even have the chance to set their eyes upon, even though the cost of doing so was double or triple the tuition price, which was already extravagant at one Bryu. Despite all that, the offer could already be seen as being generous. Knowing this, most of them could only tightly clench their teeth and dig their nails into their hands in rage, and not act upon their feelings. Hearing this, Synth let out a sigh of relief that the tuition wasn''t jacked up any higher than it was. Although three Bryu for one year''s tuition was truly extravagant, what the instructor said ringed true in all respects. At least I still have enough money to pay for three years. I can always figure something out if things don''t go well. That thought still lingering in his mind, Synth quickly reached under his tattered coat and pulled out the bag of Xena that his father had tossed at him. Although it contained 1000 Xena, it was still rather light due to the alloy that Xena was made out of, making it possible for Synth to actually carry that amount. Noticing Synth''s actions, the instructor let out a coy smile. The reason why they had made an exception this one time was not only because they had extra dorms, although that was one factor. It was mainly to raise money for the academy, or more specifically, for the school''s Weapon Master to forge a special set of equipment that would be given to the outstanding students of the academy when they participated in the inter-school competitions. A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. The instructor harbored no sympathy for these youths that were getting tricked out of their money. After all, what he had said was still going to hold true - that those Spark Stage and Static Stage students would be able to enroll at the academy and take lessons from there. However, what he didn''t mention was that if one''s performance was poor enough, they would be expelled from the academy... After mumbling a few times about the unfairness of the examination, most of the nobles had already paid the extra tuition fee. The commoners that were among their number naturally did not have that type of money to spend on the tuition costs; as after all, one Bryu was a lot of money for them and most of them were hoping for a scholarship, and left the academy grounds. It must be known that according to city-wide law, when a youth turns fourteen, he is given the choice to go to a combat academy''s entrance examination to see whether or not he has the potential to Channel Energy and his latent talent. One day before the youth turns sixteen, it is mandatory for them to go to an examination. Also, if their talent was at the Revolving Stage or higher, they were forced to enroll into an Invoker academy or Chevalier academy. The reason why this was so was widely known - it was because the Human Army was planning to take some of their lost territory back from the beasts that now inhibited them, and to do that, they needed combat potential. In a sense, this whole system was one very similar to a military draft. This was why all of the youths that came for the exam were roughly all fourteen to fifteen years of age. When the people who did not want to pay the increased tuition cost left and the ones that remained had paid, the instructor rounded the remaining children up and told them to follow the three guards in the azure-white armor. The groups''s numbers had significantly dwindled, from a few hundred to roughly two hundred or so youth remaining. The youths were soon led to a large, one-story building, composed mainly of a black material while the edges of the building were faintly streaked with red. Slightly above the large metal doors that led the way into the building, were two golden dragons clashing with each other, every feature sculpted in extremely fine detail. When they entered the building, Synth noticed that it appeared to be an auditorium, with rows of chairs set up in front of an elevated podium, where presumably that same instructor or the school headmaster would stand and explain to them what life in the academy was going to be like. Walking over to the chairs in the back row, Synth randomly plopped down on one of them and silently waited for the speaker to show up. The remaining commoners all occupied the back row as well, while the nobles sat up front. I might have already made some people suspicious due to my display of wealth while looking like a commoner. It''s best to stay low for a while and blend in to this new social profile. Thinking that, Synth began to observe how the commoners around him were acting. He noticed that unlike the nobles, they were all rather demure and quiet, while avoiding eye contact with each other most of the time. No one was introducing themselves, and everybody just kept to their own little worlds. Seeing this, Synth''s opinion of the common people was somewhat lowered, as he truly did not like the atmosphere. Being brought up in an aristocratic family, he naturally sat through many etiquette classes almost since his birth. The ways of aristocracy were already firmly emblazoned in his personality, which made him detest these commoners all the more viciously. Staring ahead, Synth noticed that the nobles were all conversing happily with each other, although their voices carried a hint of arrogance. He currently saw that many of the youths were currently kissing up to a blue-haired male, which made him narrow his eyes and tightly frown. If I remember correctly, that person should be that Flame Stage examinee, the one who scored the highest on the Innate Talent test. His lips curving upwards in a sneer, Synth snickered. It was just so like the nobles to curry the favor of other high-ranking nobility or people with talent. He had seen this quite a few times, as he had watched various people kissing up to his father before as well. Although Synth exhibited all the traits that aristocracy carried, including their aloof, arrogant air, he made sure to stay away from pointless praise and not give in to self-exaltation. He knew that the people trying to kiss up to the blue-haired youth were doing so mainly because they wanted to use him in the future, which would only lead to a very hollow relationship, with almost no loyalty guaranteed at all. Seeming to notice Synth''s actions, the blue-haired youth turned around, a haughty expression clearly displayed on his face. He locked his eyes on Synth, and shot him a look of disdain, before turning around and resuming conversation with the other people who were crowding around him. Synth let out a wry smile. It appeared as if the blue-haired youth had seen him snickering. He hoped that he had not made an enemy right off the bat, because having him as an opponent was truly going to be troublesome. Hopefully he sees dealing with me would be way below his social status. After all, which noble lowers themselves to quarrel openly with a commoner? Thinking hopefully, Synth once again turned his head around to quietly wait for the appearance of the instructor. It was unlikely that the blue-haired youth would actually care about something as trivial as Synth, with his current appearance as a commoner, snickering at him. It was only when a commoner truly offended a noble that a noble would actually take action. After all, why would a noble take the time and effort to lower themselves to deal with a lowly commoner? An hour soon passed, yet no one came. Synth was currently resting, closing his eyes in a half-awake state. He was truly exhausted after the climb up the mountain, and also because he was kicked out of the household at roughly 5:00am. He hadn''t gotten much more than a few hours of sleep at the very most. "Hmmn. The qualities of this year''s freshmen truly is rather horrible." A harmonious, soft voice soon broke the silence. Although the voice was pleasant to the ear, the unconcealed disdain in that voice made quite a few people look angrily at the speaker. Annoyed at this tone of voice, Synth quickly opened his eyes to see just who was so audacious to say something like that, potentially making enemies out of all the new students here. As soon as he opened his eyes however, he wished he had kept them shut. Because what he saw made his eyes turn round, and unconcealed shock was displayed all over his face. His expression almost looked as if lightning had struck and paralyzed him in place. Quickly hiding his shock, and once again furtively sneaking a glance at the person standing in front of the podium, Synth buried his head in his hands, and almost wanted to cry. Heavens, why must you play my life out as a joke? This truly isn''t funny... Book 1, Chapter 1 - Truth and Consequence (Pt. 1.3/1.3) Chapter''s out! Enjoy! Read also on the WuxiaWorld Forums or on the website ;3 __________________________________________ Book 1, Chapter 1 - Truth and Consequence (1.3/1.3) Once again glancing at the figure on the podium, Synth groaned. He already had had more than his fair share of bad luck on the way to the academy, but why must the current scene in front of him also be on that list of ''bad things'' that had happened? Standing on the podium was a tall and slender woman, who appeared to be roughly around the age of sixteen. With fine, delicate features, a slim sword holstered on the left side of her waist, and clothing that displayed her well-proportioned curves, the woman on the podium would truly be considered a top-class beauty. However, while many of the male students were enamored by the woman''s mature charm, Synth, on the other hand, truly wanted to just run and hide somewhere far, far away. The shock on his face soon gradually turned to one of hatred and disgust. The reason why he made such an unsightly appearance in the face of such captivating beauty was because, this woman was someone who looked a bit all too familiar to him... She was exactly that ''patrol guard'' that he had run into on his way to the academy, and had given him an almost near-death fright. What is she doing here? How is a Chevalier a guest speaker at an institute that nurtures Invokers??? Just as Synth was wondering why the woman he had met that night was here, the woman on the podium abruptly began speaking. "Congratulations to all of you here who are sitting in the auditorium. This means that you all have passed the entrance examination, and have chosen to embark on the path of an Invoker. My name is Lilia Synclaw, the daughter of William Synclaw, the head of this school." Upon hearing this, Synth let out a slight sigh of relief. At first, when he saw her, he thought that she was not wholly convinced of the story that Synth had come up with and came to investigate. However, after she had introduced herself, this was not the case. She was only here because her father was the school head, and probably was asked to tell the new students about what life on campus was going to be like. However, I should still stay low. Even though she isn''t here because she''s suspicious of me, it still would be bad if I drew any unnecessary attention. Even though Lilia was not here specifically for Synth, he made a mental note to stay out of her way whenever possible. After hearing her short introduction and the comment that she had made on the previous day, Synth was naturally able to deduce her situation. The only reason why Synth had run into her last night while she was on patrol duty was because she was forced to volunteer to do it. Her father probably wanted to build a good image for the academy, and thus sent his daughter out to do community service type work. And even though she was a Chevalier, the reason why she appeared to lecture and guide the new students was because her father was the school head. Although she had not chosen the path of the Invoker or did not have enough aptitude for it, as her family did run the school, she naturally would be familiar with the way the academy ran. Her father must have been busy. That''s probably why she''s being sent in as a substitute. Thinking up to this point, Synth pushed those thoughts out of his head and began listening intently, lowering his head as well to try to blend in with the crowd. At the current point in time, he really did not want to be noticed by Lilia. Appearing to not have seen Synth''s characteristic black hair with strands of gold intertwined within, Lilia began speaking about what life in the academy would entail, and began going into detail about the class options that one could take. "Everyday, excluding weekdays, classes will begin from 8:00am all the way until 11:00pm. Classes take up roughly an hour and a half to two hours, and are based on a set schedule. With the exception of the Runic Languages and the Battle Basics classes, everyone is free to choose the other classes that they want to take." "You have to take a minimum of three classes, while the maximum amount of classes you can take is five. Runic Languages Class begins at 8:00am and ends at 10:00am, while the Battle Basics Class begins at 10:10am and ends at 11:10am." "From there on, will the elemental classes start. Light-element classes will begin at 11:15am and end at 12:15pm. Earth-element classes will start at 1:00pm and end at 2:00pm. The reason why there is a forty-five minute break between the light element and earth element classes is because lunch break is from 12:15pm to 12:55pm." "And in that order, the other elemental classes follow as well. The Water-element classes will start at 2:05pm and end at 3:05pm. Fire-element classes will start at 3:10pm and end at 4:10pm. Wind-element classes will start at 4:15pm and end at 5:15pm, and finally, Dark-element classes will start at 5:20pm and end at 6:20pm." Suddenly, one youth spoke up from the crowd. "Are those all the classes available? Didn''t you say that classes end at 11pm?" Hearing this, Synth frowned, and wanted to laugh. The impatient youth had not let Lilia finish, and had just cut her off so abruptly. Maybe, Synth thought, If you let her finish, you''ll know the answer without having to ask. Looking at the youth who had spoken up, Lilia gave him a cold glare. Although her features were still beautiful while she was frowning, her eyes contained no hint of mirth in them at all, and instead radiated coldness. This soul-penetrating gaze made the youth who had talked out of line instantly freeze up. Seeing that she had effectively shut the youth up, Lilia once again returned her gaze onto the group of students clustered in rows in front of her, and began speaking again. "After the Dark-element Class is over, there are special selective classes that take place during the night-time. However, seeing that the quality of the new freshmen is rather terrible, I will not bother explaining." "Also, for the times when you do not have a class, you can have the time off." After Lilia had noticed that everyone seemed to slowly take in her words, she cleared her throat to get their attention again. Although classes were a very important part of the curriculum, it must be noted that advancing their Channeling Energy and the inter-school competition tournament was important as well. "Classes will not be on the weekends. However, I advise you all that you spend this time to diligently train and advance your Channeling Energy. If you don''t make it to a two-star Mind Invoker by the end of the first year, you will be expelled from the academy. With this in mind, once a month, we will hand out one World Essence Crystal to each student to help them cultivate their Energy Base." If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. A World Essence Crystal? They''re going to give such a rare and valuable item to us, to help us cultivate??? That was the thought that was passing through almost all the minds of the new students, Synth included. World Essence Crystals were rare relics that contained World Essence within them. World Essence was close to nonexistent now in this current age, and although it was possible to train it in the natural environment, the process wasn''t exactly quick. Training by absorbing the World Essence within the crystals was a much faster alternative, making the Crystals very precious resources. Nobody would just wantonly give out such precious items. However, Lilia had just said that they would each receive one of these World Essence Crystals every single month! This was the reason why so many of the new students were shocked beyond comparison. Ignoring the countless astonished expressions, Lilia indifferently continued, "The last thing that I wanted to tell you all about is the inter-school competition. Every two to three years, we choose the best students to participate in a school-wide competition, competing to see which academy can produce the best talents. Naturally, if you are chosen for this event, we will provide special bonuses to help you prepare for the competition. If you so happen to win, an extra bonus will be included as well." After Lilia had said this, there were quite a few students who began to ogle at her. Synth, noticing the expressions that these youths sported, let out a cold snicker. Lustful brats. You guys will all sooner or later die in the arms of a woman. Although Synth was still a young man, he had much better control over his desires than ordinary youths. After all, by forging himself from doing hard, physically exhausting training, he had naturally acquired something of an iron will. His mother''s departure only helped to harden his heart towards the opposite gender as well. It was quite obvious that Lilia''s words, "extra reward", had sparked something of a fire in some of the youths, who were currently having quite obscene thoughts towards her and her body. Quickly taking a glance at Lilia once again, Synth sighed in praise. Under the darkness of the night and the panic that he had been through, he had not been able to truly make out all the finer details of Lilia''s figure when he had first encountered her. Now, seeing her figure not hidden by the darkness of night, Synth was truly stunned because of her beauty. The way her brown hair draped over her shoulders and the white dress that she was wearing that was somewhat tight around her bosom, truly made her exude a mature charm, one that did not match her age. However, it was undeniable that with her looks, she would ignite flames in the hearts of most men. Lilia had noticed these somewhat lewd gazes at her as well. However, she just chose to ignore them, while she finished her speech. Taking a deep breath and exhaling, she once again began talking, "That just about sums up what I wanted to tell you all. Oh, right. There''s one final thing. No matter what, do not provoke your seniors. Otherwise, you just might find yourself challenged to a duel that you can''t refuse according to school rules." Not paying any heed to the confused gazes that many of the youths were sending her way, Lilia wordlessly got down from the elevated podium and left through the back door of the auditorium. The three guards that were standing by soon came up, and the same one who had spoken earlier walked up to the front and gestured to the new students to be quiet again. "Alright. You all should know the basics of how the Magecroft Academy works after Miss Synclaw''s explanation. We will now lead you to your dorms. The freshmen and second years occupy the East Wing of the campus, while the third years and forth years occupy the West Wing. The fifth years occupy the North Wing, and the sixth years occupy the South Wing. Don''t get the directions mixed up." The three soldiers soon began to lead the line of students towards the East Wing''s dormitories, and everyone began walking again in single file, exiting the auditorium. Unbeknownst to Synth, someone was coldly watching him on top of the auditorium... ______________________________________________________________ Noticing that the group of freshmen were beginning to leave, a gentle figure descended down from the top of the auditorium. Not too fast and not too slow, the figure landed gracefully on the ground. Seeing this scene would shock most people, as the auditorium building was quite high, and to be able to jump down without breaking any bones and landing so gracefully like that was almost unimaginable. Something like that was also impossible for a normal person and even Invokers to do, which meant that the person who had descended from the skies was a Chevalier! Gazing at the figure of the boy that she had run into last night while on patrol duty, the figure''s lips curved upwards into a sneer, while coldly focusing her gaze on Synth''s rapidly retreating visage among the other new students. With a cold laugh, she softly murmured, "It appears that there truly is more to your background that meets the eye. I''ll personally investigate this matter..." That woman disappeared almost instantaneously, seeming almost to blend in with the wind with every step that she took. Soon, there was nothing left to be seen except for a few blurry afterimages still lingering in the air... ______________________________________________________________ "So, this is where I''ll be spending the next three years of my life?" Quietly mumbling while looking at the rather unimpressive but ridiculously large building in front of him, Synth began to follow the rest of the students into the interior of the structure, with the three guards still leading in the front. When everyone was gathered in the lobby of the dormitory, one of the guards turned around and announced, "We''re at the dorm. I will now be giving everyone a key to their room. You will be sharing your room with one or two roommates as well, so try to get along." Nobody seemed to be surprised upon hearing this news. After all, there were quite a few people in the academy, and if they had to provide individual housing for everyone who attended the academy, that would truly place an enormous amount of unnecessary financial burden on the academy''s shoulders. Waving his right hand, a few hundred keys mysteriously appeared in front of him, all floating in the air. With another wave, the guard sent the keys flying toward the direction of the youths, and they all landed neatly in everyone''s hands. Waving his right hand again, what seemed to be tiny, colorless crystals appeared in front of him as well, and the guard sent the tiny crystals flying in the same directions that the keys had, one crystal landing neatly in the hands of each youth. Not paying the shocked gazes of the youths any mind, the guard explained to them that their room number was unscripted on the key, and to just go looking for a door with that number. He also explained that the tiny crystal that he had given them was a World Essence Crystal, and told them to begin their cultivation of Channeling Energy. Right after the guard had said this, he and his companions left, leaving the few hundred students by themselves in the dorm''s lobby. Well, there''s no need to waste time. Might as well settle in first. Ignoring the other youths who seemed to be at a loss, Synth quickly took a look at his key, and made a quick mental note - his room number was 457. Walking silently, Synth slowly slipped away from the crowd of new students, and began wandering the huge corridors of the dormitory, slowly and meticulously trying to find his room. Book 1, Chapter 2 - Enlightenment (Pt. 2.1/2.3) Book 1, Chapter 2 - Enlightenment (2.1/2.3) "So, is this the place that I will spend the next three or so years of my life? It''s a bit bland..." Currently, Synth was standing inside a rather plain, although spacious, looking room. There were two beds, one on each side of the room, while a window was in the middle of the front wall. There was also a thin divider somewhat separating the two sides of the room. Other than those basic commodities, there was nothing else. Quickly scanning the entire room once more, Synth sighed and plopped down on the bed located on the right side of the room. Gazing blankly at the ceiling, he softly muttered, "It looks as if I only have one roommate, huh? Well, the fewer the better, I guess." "Well said." Hearing this, Synth quickly jerked his head forward, trying to find where the voice came from. However, he could not see anything, no matter where he looked. "Who...?" Synth was seriously confused. He had clearly heard a voice resonating in the dorm room. But when he scanned his surroundings, he didn''t find anyone! "Don''t bother looking. I''m in the shadows." What? In the shadows? My roommate is already an Invoker? Although Synth had not started cultivating yet, it must be known that many of the new students enrolling into the Magecroft Academy hadn''t either. This meant that his roommate was already on the path of cultivation! This also meant that his roommate had also practiced a spell of the darkness attribute that allowed him to hide his presence so neatly. Suddenly, a hazy image of a youth fazed into Synth''s view. He was dressed in a white uniform, and had violet hair complemented by his purple eyes, and truly had a devilish appearance. What appeared to be a vial of poison was holstered on his left hip, while his body seemed to be enveloped by a translucent black cloak. Seeing the surreal appearance of the person in front of him made a deep impression on Synth. Also, although he wasn''t fully aware of it, Synth could feel some strange power pulsating from the youth''s body. Although he couldn''t quite clearly sense how strong the aura covering the youth''s body was, Synth was sure that it was the pressure of the Energy Base of the youth! Just from that, he could tell... that the man in front of him was on a completely different level than himself! Beginning to grow a bit nervous, Synth awkwardly chuckled, and resumed his resting position on his bed. He truly did not want to anger this roommate of his, partly due to the fact that he appeared to be a relatively high-ranked noble, but mostly due to the enormous pressure that he had previously felt just by being around him. However, Synth''s gnawing curiosity about what it was like to be an Invoker finally got the best of him, and he couldn''t help but turn around and ask, "Hey, are you already a Mind Invoker?" The violet-haired youth turned around and looked at Synth. Lightly sighing, he replied, "I''ve just recently broke through and become a four-star Mind Invoker." "WHAT!?!" This simple sentence left Synth feeling dumbfounded. The youth in front of him looked no older than fourteen, roughly around the same age as him, yet he was already a four-star Mind Invoker? What type of training talent was this? It must be known that to advance four star ranks as a Mind Invoker usually took around a year''s time. Training and advancing as an Invoker was much tougher than advancing as a Chevalier, due to the amount of World Essence required to fuel the Energy Base inside the practitioner. Chevaliers used the World Essence to envelop their bodies and strengthen their muscles while also improving their dexterity and agility, mainly coating the body externally with it. However, Invokers had to draw in World Essence within their bodies, drawing it into their dantian. This usually results in a ball of energy within the Invoker''s body, at a place resting slightly below the navel. The ''Accumulated Energy Storage'' then is used to aid the Invoker in casting spells and the like by getting channeled through spell arrays. When it is exhausted, the amount of World Essence available will gradually recover. However, to increase the maximum amount that the dantian can store required the Invoker to grow stronger. If one''s Energy Base was not big enough and tried to cast a spell beyond their means, it would usually end up with the spell-caster dying or becoming a cripple. "So, um... is it possible for you to teach me any effective ways to cultivate?" Looking at the violet-haired youth with shining eyes, and remembering the casual statement that he had just made, Synth thought that maybe his roommate could help him get a head start on his peers. Seeing the expression that Synth was displaying, the violet-haired youth shook his head and said, "Don''t jump the gun. We still barely know each other. And also, why do I have to teach someone like you effective methods to train?" Crap! I completely forgot about my status! Synth worriedly thought in his head, before giving out an awkward laugh. "Sorry about that. I guess I got too excited, seeing how my roommate could already use magic so effectively. I''m Synth. Synth Ly-... Synth Lynn." That was close! I almost said something that I really shouldn''t have... However, the violet-haired youth seemed not to notice. Sitting down on the vacant bed on the other side of the room, he casually replied, "Verain. Verain Li." Hearing this, Synth now knew that his previous thought was correct. The youth that would be his roommate was from a large noble family, and it would be best if he didn''t cross him. Although Synth hadn''t heard the specifics about the Li Family, he knew that it was a local power no weaker than his Lyos Family, even though it wasn''t ranked among the top three powers. Not thinking any further on this topic, Synth quickly rolled around, and grabbed the bag of Xena and the World Essence Crystal that was currently on his person. He casually tossed the bag of money on the side of his bed, while he began to fidget with the Crystal. If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. It was roughly the size of his index finger, and emanated a soft translucent glow. Tiny wisps of energy could be seen slowly leaking out of the crystal. Seeing this, Synth began to poke at the wisps of energy, and saw that they gently wrapped around his finger before floating off again. Heh, this is quite amusing. But then again, how am I even supposed to absorb this? "Hey. What are you doing? Quickly absorb the World Essence that''s leaking out from the crystal. Don''t you know that the crystal that you have is cracked, and that you need to absorb the leaking energy as fast as possible?" Turning around, Synth saw that his roommate, Verain, was currently standing over him, a displeased expression on his face. "Huh? But I don''t know how..." "You don''t know? Seriously?" Contrary to Synth''s expectations, Verain sighed, and actually began to explain how to absorb the essence contained within the crystals to him. "Concentrate on ''sensing'' the essence that is contained within the crystal. Can you feel the faint strands of energy contained within? Try drawing the energy in, and direct it to your Origin." (AuN: Origin - Dantian) Verain''s first sentence left Synth startled, and he shot a quizzical look towards him. Seeing this Verain shook his head, and coldly said, "Since you have been accepted into the academy, don''t tell me that you can''t do even this." So, being able to clearly sense the World Essence is directly related to latent talent? Thinking to this point, Synth closed his eyes, and tried to concentrate on sensing the faint strands of energy surrounding the small crystal that he was currently holding in his hands. In the depths of his consciousness, Synth could somewhat sense the boundless essence of the World, and felt as if four strands of energy were trying to merge into his body. Gently breathing, he directed the energy flow downwards, forcing it to rest at a place slightly below his navel. The four strands of energy began to merge, forming one combined, bigger strand. It gradually turned into a ball shape, and began to firmly implant its roots inside Synth''s Origin. However, just as the ''core'' was about to form, the sphere of World Essence suddenly exploded! "AHHHHHHHHH!" An anguished cry escaped from Synth''s lips, and he lurched to the floor, clutching his chest in pain. Verain stood over him, watching dumbfounded at this unexpected turn of events. However, that shock soon turned to bewilderment, when he sensed the strange aura that was coming from Synth''s body. "Dual element affinity?" Verain could faintly sense the elements of light and fire being emanated from Synth''s body. However, what was currently happening now did not make much sense to him. Theoretically speaking, if one was a dual-element Invoker, their innate talent should not be low. In fact, their innate talent should be at least at the Flame Stage of talent. However, Verain had clearly felt that Synth''s innate talent was no higher than the Spark Stage from his energy fluctuations. This could only lead to one possible conclusion - Cultivation Backlash! Cultivation Backlash was a phenomenon that would happen when one tried to cultivate and train in a technique or absorption method that was too complicated for them to handle, which would lead to anywhere between passing out for a few days or directly becoming crippled. Verain thought that since Synth had dual-element affinities and yet his innate talent was only at the Spark Stage, he might have suffered from Cultivation Backlash. Thus, this would be the natural result. Looking down at Synth, who was still clutching his chest in pain, Verain only frowned, and muttered,"It''s a pity, too. Even though his innate talent was only at the Spark Stage, he''s still a dual-element Invoker... and not to mention that the Li Family has those forbidden methods..." Synth was completely oblivious to all of this. The only thing he was feeling at this moment was pain. Excruciating, almost unbearable pain, that wracked his chest and somehow managed to affect his entire body and engulf it in that unpleasant sensation. But the amount of pain that he was suffering was natural. After all, his ''Origin'' had exploded on itself, the very center where the body''s energy was channeled. In fact, it could even be said that he was getting off light, since his Origin had not fully formed yet, so the amount of pain that he was feeling would not compare to people who already had formed their ''Core''. However, strangely enough, the wisps of energy in his body did not escape. Rather, they began to travel up the veins of Synth''s body... Noticing this, Verain once more turned around and looked at the youth on the ground in front of him, a bewildered expression displayed on his face. "Internal-Vein Opening? How is something like that even possible..." What Verain had sensed was that the World Essence, instead of forming a core, traveled inside Synth''s body inside all of his veins and meridians. Usually, Chevaliers would coat themselves externally with a layer of World Essence. Invokers would form a core in their Origin region and draw upon that to power their magics. However, what Synth was currently doing was a combination of the two! Just the sight of this would leave many people dumbfounded, not just Verain. Looking at this phenomenon happening right in front of him, a somewhat crude smile appeared on Verain''s face. With a cold expression, he softly murmured, "If I can rope him in... then the ''Plan'' can move forward." Heh, just you wait, humans. Don''t you know that a magic beast has already infiltrated your precious town, and even was accepted into one of your prestigious institutes? All I need is a vessel. Hahahahaha.... Book 1, Chapter 2 - Enlightenment (Pt. 2.2/2.3) Book 1, Chapter 2 - Enlightenment (2.2/2.3) "Hey, you''re awake?" The first thing that appeared in Synth''s view was a violet-haired youth, looking worriedly at him. Getting up off the bed with a painful groan, Synth closed his eyes and began to probe the meridians and veins inside his body. Verain kept silent while Synth was doing this. Inside his body, Synth could faintly see that his veins were pulsing with some strange power, and his body seemed stronger as well. Opening his eyes once again, Synth extended his hand outwards, and wisps of magical energy emanated from his palm. Shutting his eyes, Synth began to probe the changes in his body more in depth. It appeared that his veins and meridians were stronger and fuller of life than they had ever been before, and they were even coated over with a faint layer of what appeared to be World Essence. However, when he tried to sense what should have been the ''core'' in his Origin region, he only found an empty expanse of space. Huh? Shouldn''t my ''core'' be in the Origin region? Why is nothing here? Bewildered, Synth probed again to see whether or not a ''core'' of World Essence had formed or not inside his body. Once again not finding it, he could only give up and withdraw his inner gaze. "This is interesting. You spontaneously broke through and became an Invoker and a Chevalier." Verain''s voice, carrying a hint of astonishment, reached Synth''s ears and woke him up from his dazed state. "What do you mean?" Synth was both worried and curious as to what had happened within his body. Naturally, as Verain seemed to know, Synth would grab onto the first opportunity to ask him. "Well, how do I put it... somehow, you ended up absorbing the World Essence directly into your meridians and veins. I''m honestly surprised that you didn''t explode and die from that. It''s a wonder that you''re still alive." Ignoring Synth''s shocked expression, Verain continued. "You basically created a layer of protection inside and outside the veins in your body, much in the fashion of a Chevalier. However, Chevaliers create this ''shield'' on the outside of their bodies. Due to their latent talent, and also due to your method being somewhat counterproductive and extremely dangerous, they can only do this if they want to embark on the path of cultivation." "You didn''t form a core either inside your Origin, unlike Invokers. But, it is an undisputed fact that your body still contains World Essence inside it. I can sense the energy fluctuations inside you." "This pretty much means that you broke through and became a Mind Invoker, as well as a Magic Fighter." Seeing how Synth''s expression had changed from a worried one into a happy one, Verain frowned, and paused for a brief moment. He had told Synth the good news. However, he still had to tell him the bad news. "Don''t get too excited yet. Even though this means that you can pretty much train as an Invoker and as a Chevalier much more easily than normal people, there is actually a con with your... energy formation." Synth, hearing this, began to grow anxious, as a feeling of dread was gnawing at his heart. The next words that Verain was going to say, didn''t require a genius to figure them out. "However, this also means that your... growth as an Invoker and as a Chevalier will be impacted. As you probably have noticed, the energy formation that you currently have inside your body is basically a fusion of an incomplete Invoker ''core'' and a Chevalier''s ''protective battle-aura''." Verain paused, to let his words sink in. Synth really didn''t need that time to realize what Verain was suggesting at, however. He was already looking up at the ceiling with a depressed expression. Smiling wryly, Synth relaxed the hand that he had grasped the crystal with, only to find that the wisps of energy had disappeared, and the crystal had turned milk-white. I probably absorbed all the essence inside it, huh? Tossing the crystal aside, Synth nonchalantly asked, "How long have I been out for?" "You''ve been unconscious for roughly around four hours now. It''s already 6''oclock." Synth smiled lightly. "I''m glad that classes don''t start until Tuesday. Anyways, we''re allowed to go and get something to eat, right?" "Yeah. We can go to the academy''s cafeteria and get some food. Have any money on you?" Synth pointed at the bag of Xena. Seeing this, Verain nodded, and waited for Synth to prepare all his items. "Do you seriously plan to go eat in those clothes?" Noticing the ripped and badly damaged uniform that Synth was wearing, Verain couldn''t help but comment. Scratching his hair with an awkward expression, Synth wryly laughed. "If I had a change of clothes, do you really think I wouldn''t have changed by now?" Casting a somewhat apprehensive gaze toward the articles of clothing that Synth was wearing, Verain lightly scoffed before tapping a mysterious-looking green ring on his index finger. Just as Synth was about to retort towards Verain''s rude action, a pair of clothes flew at him, and directly hit his face, knocking him back onto the bed. Pushing the clothing aside, Synth looked at Verain with an angry scowl, who was currently smirking. "Hey, what was that for?" Verain laughed. "I don''t want people to think that I have a peon as a roommate." "..." Wordlessly getting up, Synth quickly donned the clothes that Verain gave him, while Verain quickly turned around. This guy... he''s seriously precocious. And who knew there was ''this'' type of a side to him? "Are you done?" Verain''s voice woke Synth up from his thoughts. Synth nodded, grabbed one Xena coin, and headed out to door towards the cafeteria with his mysterious roommate. ******************* "Wow... this place is huge!" That was the first comment that Synth made, as he stared at the building in front of him that was covered by what appeared to be a translucent dome, with wide eyes. The building was rather unremarkable in terms of design and architecture. However, the sheer size of the cafeteria would make one feel dumbfounded. Verain, located at Synth''s side, lightly chucked. "Of course it is. There are around two thousand students in the Magecroft Academy. If the cafeteria wasn''t this large, then how would all of them eat?" Ignoring Verain''s annoyingly ''smart'' remarks, Synth walked inside the double doors that led to the cafeteria. What appeared in his view was the layout of a high-class restaurant, something that Synth was familiar with due to previously being part of the aristocracy. Many people were already occupying the tables, sipping fine wine and eating sumptuous meals. Overhead, one could see the clear skies, and the breathtaking view of the sun setting in the horizon. Ignoring Synth, who was rooted in place admiring the view, Verain impatiently walked in front of him to the waitress at the front. "Table for two, please." Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Verain walked over to Synth, and tapped him on the shoulder, and handed him a menu. They both then followed the waitress and sat down at a table. Flipping through the menu, Synth was quite shocked to find the prices of the dishes that were served. Several of them cost a few dozen Gulo, and some even cost a few Xena! Not many people could afford this exorbitant price. Seeing this made Synth wonder how the commoners that got accepted in the Magecroft Academy got by without starving. Shaking his head, Synth gestured at the waitress and pointed at a few of the cheapest dishes. In the end, he ordered the chef''s specialty fish, light champagne, and also a light appetizer. Surprisingly, Verain only ordered a glass of fine wine. "You... you''re not eating?" Synth asked, wondering why Verain had only ordered a glass of wine. "Not hungry." Verain casually replied, before grabbing the goblet of wine and downing it in one gulp. Turning back towards his own food, Synth began to vigorously eat. Although he had learned eating etiquette, he completely ignored those lessons now to avoid suspicion, and tore at the fish with a fork. "Your manners are... rather lacking." Once again noticing the uncultured way that Synth was acting, Verain could not help but comment again. Synth let out an awkward laugh. The only reason why I''m behaving the way I am is to avoid suspicion. Haah.... "Oh? Verain, it seems as if you''re enjoying yourself, eh?" A group of three students walked over, all wearing the slick uniform of the Magecroft Academy. Judging from the badge that they were wearing, they were second year students. The leader of the group of students was a blond-haired youth with an arrogant expression on his face, one hand holding onto a staff. He was currently staring daggers at Verain. Noticing this, Synth could tell that Verain had some history between them. "What do you want?" A voice passive, but having the undertones of hostility came from Verain''s throat. It could be seen that he was not pleased at all with the appearance of these three people. The nearby students enjoying their meals also began to distance themselves from them. Whispers between the uninvolved students could also be heard, spoken in low tones. Had a first-year student dared to offend a second-year student? If so, the consequences for such an action would truly be disastrous for the new pupil. All three of the second-year students emanated the aura of a three-star Mind Invoker. However, the blond-haired youth''s aura was a little bit stronger than the other two''s. It could be seen that he was already experienced with this level of power. "What DO I want? I wonder?" The blond haired youth snickered. "I think you haven''t forgotten about that incident, right?" Verain scoffed. "The Competition of the Lotus Blossoms? How could I have forgotten? If I remember correctly, that was the place where I beat you up so badly that even those two behind you couldn''t recognize you." Hearing this, the youth became enraged, and made a grabbing motion towards Verain''s neck. However, strands of black energy formed a protective barrier around Verain, and blocked the youth''s fist. The vial on Verain''s waist began to glow a bright, purplish color. Wisps of black smoke began to emanate from the barrier of darkness, and they began to slowly drain the blond-haired youth''s energy... This was the Middle Coalescing Tier Spell, [Soul Leech]. It formed a ball of dark energy that could be manipulated to form many tangible objects, like the barrier that Verain had placed. The ball of darkness also had the effect of slowly draining the energy of whatever it came in contact with. Noticing this, some of the second-year students and even some third-year students became shocked. A freshman actually was able to cast a Middle Coalescing Tier Spell? This was something that many first-year students found impossible to do! Of course, one could dispel the negative effects of the [Soul Leech] if they had the methods to do so. However, the three youths that wanted to gang up on and harass Verain clearly didn''t have the ability to do so. *BOOM!* Another burst of energy enveloped the area, and the blond-haired youth was sent flying away. With a cold, apathetic look, Verain turned around and began to walk the other way, a faint, ominous pressure enveloping his body. "Don''t bother me when I''m eating." The blond-haired youth who had been knocked away painfully got up, while revealing an expression of astonishment. "Don''t tell me... you''ve really advanced to a four-star Mind Invoker?" "Four star Mind Invoker?" These few words caused an uproar in the crowd of students who were dining in the hall. It must be known that many second-year students were only four-star Mind Invokers! For a first-year student to possess this level of strength... was truly terrifying! His growth potential would undoubtedly be much higher above ordinary people''s! Ignoring the youth who was lying on the floor and the two others that came with him, Verain quietly left. Synth hurriedly followed, somewhat troubled by the many apprehensive gazes that were shot in their direction. The results of the clash left many stunned gazes and shocked expressions. One thought began to linger in the minds of the first-year students who had witnessed the spectacle of Verain effortlessly defeating the blond-haired youth: A monster has arrived at the academy... ******************* "Hey... Verain... weren''t your actions a bit brash?" Synth and Verain were currently standing on top of a ledge, directly overlooking the dorms. Synth had no idea why Verain had chosen to go there, but he had followed him nonetheless. He was truly surprised at the display that he had witnessed earlier, having seen Verain beat up a second-year student. He was also curious about their past history, but decided not to question it. "..." Silence. Verain didn''t reply, and Synth just kept on standing there, not saying anything else. This continued for what seemed like an eternity, before Verain turned around. Casting his ice-cold gaze on Synth, he stepped forward, until the distance between them had shrunk to about a foot. Noticing Verain''s advance, Synth nervously backed away, until his back was pressed against the wall of the cliff. Suddenly, a blade of darkness coalesced, and it rested on Synth''s shoulder, right next to his neck. What the hell is going on? Weren''t we getting along fine just moments ago? Worried about the situation that he was in and the increasing amount of dread that he felt, Synth said angrily, "What is this all about? If you kill me, I don''t think the academy will let you off lightly, even if you''re from the Li Family!" Verain smiled, and walked back a few steps. However, the blade was still resting at Synth''s neck. "If you don''t want to die, let''s make a deal that benefits both parties." Book 1, Chapter 2 - Enlightenment (Pt. 2.3/2.3) Btw~ new website! More user-friendly layout! Link here~ dawnv2.wordpress.com Also updates faster than the RRL Thread, if you haven''t noticed already, haha xD _________________________________________ Part 3 (Written & Edited by DarkAbsolute) "A... deal? That benefits both parties? What do you mean?" Synth barely managed to get these few words out from his mouth, due to him still being in a shocked state. The events that had led up to the current situation had happened rather quickly. In truth, only a few minutes had passed from the time when Synth and Verain were still eating in the academy''s cafeteria. "I want to make a contract with you." Verain began to speak, his tone of voice still ice cold. "You won''t remember much of what I''m going to tell you afterwards, however. If you value your life, it would be wise of you to accept my terms and conditions." Synth grimaced. Terms and conditions? Whatever they were, they probably weren''t going to work in his favor. "What do you want me to do?" Synth cautiously asked. He was currently also observing for an opportunity to escape, waiting for the moment when Verain wasn''t paying attention for him to silently sneak away. "The only thing that I want you to do is for you to accept a binding magic being cast on you." Hearing this, Synth''s expression grew ugly to behold. Binding Magic? Verain truly wanted to use a binding magic on him, to force him into a contract? Binding Magic was mainly used by Invokers when trying to tame and form a master-servant bond with wild magical beasts. Yet, Verain wanted to use this Binding Magic for beasts, on him! This was an insult! Synth felt his blood begin to boil, and also grew enraged. "I''d rather kill myself than be bound like a pet to you!" Verain smirked. "Whether you want to or not isn''t your decision." Suddenly, the vial that was holstered on Verain''s waist glowed brightly again, and wisps of dark energy began to latch onto Synth. Verain calmly watched this, tapping the vial every few seconds or so. Synth, on the other hand, was trying his best to force the foreign energy out of his body. However, the purity of Synth''s energy compared to the purity of Verain''s energy was vastly inferior, and thus, was unable to slow down the dark energy''s invasion. Combined with the fact that Synth had just broken trough moments ago and also did not fully understand how to use his energy only made the corrosion accelerate. "AHHHH!" A pain even more unbearable than when Synth''s half-formed Origin exploded finally began assaulting his body. This painful burning was definitely not something that Synth could bear, and he once again passed out. Noticing that Synth had collapsed onto the floor and showed no signs of activity, Verain let out a small smile. Although it was barely noticeable, under the glow of the setting sun, it seemed rather evil... ______________________________________________________________ Inside the hazy region of Synth''s consciousness, a deep, ancient voice resounded. "Young one, are you awake?" The tone of the speaker was gentle, yet also full of wisdom; it seemed almost as if a sage was talking directly to Synth. "Yes." In this dream-like state, Synth responded, and prepared to listen. His heartbeat gradually began to slow down, and he found that a sense of tranquility and calmness began to envelop him. "I am the ''Spirit'' created by the Contract, here to inform you of the stated terms and conditions." The elderly voice once again resounded in Synth''s consciousness, the tone ever so gentle and harmonious, as if it could lull even an adult to sleep. "First, your life is directly in your contractor''s hands. If he wishes to, he can kill you instantly by severing the link between your spirits, directly destroying your soul." "Second, you will establish a Spirit Link with your contractor, and will be able to communicate to each other through your consciousness, as long as both of you are no further than one kilometer away from each other." "Third, you will forget all memories of this happening. More specifically, these memories will be locked inside your inner consciousness and will gradually unseal as you grow stronger. There is also information that your contractor refuses to give you currently, before you reach a certain level of strength." "Until you grow strong enough, this sealed information will not unlock. Also, if you don''t become powerful enough by a certain date, you will automatically become crippled, and the Spirit Link will cease to exist." "You will forget most memories of what has happened leading up to this event, and only retain the bits and pieces of information that your contractor wants you to know. Until then, farewell..." The elderly voice softly disappeared, and Synth''s inner consciousness grew silent again... ______________________________________________________________ "Synth, are you awake?" The first thing that Synth saw, once again, was Verain anxiously looking over him with a worried expression on his face. Sitting up, the vaguely familiar imagery of dorm room #457 appeared into his view once again. Synth groaned. "Verain? Did I faint once again?" The last thing that Synth remembered was eating at the academy''s cafeteria. Everything after that seemed hazy, and a strange pain assaulted his head. It seemed as if something was missing from his memory, but he just couldn''t pinpoint what it was. "Yeah. I brought you back to the room." Verain chuckled. "Maybe that dual-breakthrough of yours caused some underlying negative repercussions? After all, who knows, you just might have stumbled upon how the Magic Knights cultivated their Energy Base." The last sentence was said jokingly, with a hint of admiration and astonishment. After all, what else other than the ancient legends of the Magic Knights could train in both the ways of an Invoker and a Chevalier? Synth shook his head, pushing the hazy area in his memories away. "Who knows? Although I would consider this Energy Base as being bad luck to me. After all, I have no interest in melee combat." "Hmm. In your case then, I can see how it would be a detriment," Verain added. "However, you still need to work hard, if you don''t want to be expelled." Hearing this, Synth''s heartbeat quickened. Expelled? The Head Instructor hadn''t said a single word about expulsion during the entrance speech. Synth faintly remembered Lilia saying something of the like, but he wasn''t paying too much attention then. Looking at Synth''s frantic expression, Verain couldn''t help but laugh. "Hey, did you just sleep through the introduction ceremony? Remember when Lilia said that you had to advance to a Movement Invoker to graduate? Well, there are also certain minimum requirements to stay enrolled in the academy." "In other words, if it isn''t your lack of funds that give out first and force you to leave the Academy, then it''ll be your lack of talent, I guess?" Synth grew even more worried listening to Verain''s carefree words. His innate talent was only at the Spark Stage, which was already naturally horrible innate talent. It was literally the baseline requirement to become an Invoker. "Um... what are the requirements?" "Well. After your first year, pupils of the academy must reach at least the 4th star Mind Invoker rank. After your second year, the requirement is for one to reach the second realm, and break through to become a Will Invoker. For the third years-" Just as Verain was about to continue explaning, Synth gestured for him to stop. This ''minimum requirement'' list to graduate was seriously giving him a headache, making his head hurt even more. "Please... stop... are you making fun of me or something?" Synth self-deprecatingly joked. Just these baseline requirements were going to force him to have to cultivate almost all the time. Otherwise, there was no way he would accomplish such a demanding task. It took an average person two years to do what the Magecroft Academy wanted the first-year students to do in one year''s time. Considering this rigorous curriculum, it was no wonder that the Magecroft Academy was considered a prestigious institute! After all, the incompetent would drop like flies, leaving only the outstanding ones behind. Once those pupils graduated and became alumni of the Magecroft Academy, its reputation would skyrocket! "Oh, are you ready to go to the auditorium again? We have to sign up for our classes. It''s Tuesday now, and also nearly 11 o''clock." Verain''s voice worked its way through Synth''s ears, and Synth stood upright with a jolt. "Ah..! We need to hurry! It''d be bad if we''re late on the first official day of the semester!" Synth hurriedly bolted out the boor, without waiting for Verain. Verain sighed. It seemed as if the person whom he had placed his bets on was rather... overly energetic. With light steps that seemed almost as if he was dancing, Verain caught up to Synth in a few, short steps. If things go well, and all the pieces are set... then...! Just wait for me... everyone... ______________________________________________________________ "Everyone is required to sign up for the Battle Basics and the Runic Languages Class. As for the other classes, you are free to choose what you want to sign up for. Some of the classes will have prerequisites, however. Remember that the minimum number of classes that you can take is three, while the maximum amount is five." If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Ignoring the man who was currently on the stage addressing the students and giving out instructions, Verain and Synth both squeezed through the crowd of first-years in the auditorium. Almost everyone was congregating next to two of the many boards that were inside the room, while other boards were rather desolate, with nearly no one populating them. "Verain, I''m guessing that the two boards where the most people are crowding around are the Battle Basics and the Runic Languages class-signups, right?" Synth asked his roommate, who was currently walking next to him amidst the seemingly massive group of new-first year students. "That would be a safe bet," Verain replied. "It''s best if we find one more class that we want to take during this semester. After all, the guy up there did say that we had to take at least a minimum of three classes." Synth nodded, acknowledging what Verain had said. This did indeed make sense. They could always sign up for the required classes when there was less of a mob congregating over at the boards, and it was better to just pick their required elective course during this moment. Walking over to the less populated boards, Synth began to read the elective classes that the academy offered, with Verain looking over his shoulder. ELEMENTAL CLASSES (1st Years) ____________________ Darkness-Element Class No Prerequisites ____________________ Light-Element Class No Prerequisites ____________________ Wind-Element Class No Prerequisites ____________________ Fire-Element Class No Prerequisites ____________________ Earth-Element Class No Prerequisites ____________________ Water-Element Class No Prerequisites ____________________ "Huh? No prerequisites?" Synth was shocked upon seeing this. "Don''t you need to have elemental affinity to use elemental magic?" Hearing this question, Verain really didn''t know how to respond due to his shock. This question... was truly idiotic and ignorant! Remembering again how Synth appeared with his commoner-esque clothing, Verain pushed away the inward astonishment that he felt before replying, "An Invoker doesn''t have to have elemental affinity to cast elemental spells... the only thing that having affinity does is amplifying the spells of that particular element, making it stronger than a fellow Invoker who doesn''t have affinity casting that spell. What, do you think that Invokers without affinity would become supports?" Synth felt confused when he heard this, and questioningly probed, "So, is it better to focus on elemental classes that one has an affinity to?" "Yes." Verain nodded, then pointed at another, smaller list that had escaped Synth''s detection. "Look there. Those classes are suited for people with affinity. Keep in mind however, that these elemental classes mainly teach offensive spells." ELEMENTAL CLASSES (1st Years) ____________________ Advanced Darkness-Element Class Prerequisite - Darkness Affinity ____________________ Advanced Light-Element Class Prerequisite - Light Affinity ____________________ Advanced Wind-Element Class Prerequisite - Wind Affinity ____________________ Advanced Fire-Element Class Prerequisite - Fire Affinity ____________________ Advanced Earth-Element Class Prerequisite - Earth Affinity ____________________ Advanced Water-Element Class Prerequisite -Water Affinity ____________________ Seeing this new list, Synth went for the pen and signed his name next to the Advanced Light and Advanced Fire element classes. Verain nodded approvingly. After all, those were the two elements that Synth had affinity to, and would be the wisest choice to take. Following that, Verain signed his name next to the Advanced Darkness-Element Class. "Alright, you can still take one more class, if you want to. Personally, I think I''ll stick with three. What about you, Synth? Want to go take a look at the other classes available?" Verain said. Synth agreed. He wanted to make the most out of every opportunity that he was given, so naturally he would take the maximum number of classes allowed. "Let''s go sign up for Battle Basics and Runic Languages first. The line next to that board has dwindled," Synth replied. "After that, I''ll go take a look at the other classes available." Verain silently followed behind Synth, and they both walked over to the required class boards to sign up for the mandatory classes. Synth then once again returned back to the other boards, scanning the class lists trying to find one that he was particularly interested in. After a few minutes of browsing, one finally caught his interest. ____________________ Invoker History Class No Prerequisite ____________________ "Heh, I found one!" Synth excitedly exclaimed. "Oh? What did you pick?" Looking at the class that had arrested Synth''s interest, Verain almost wanted to cough up blood. Who would chose to learn about the History of Invokers? This class, in terms of utility, was far inferior to the more practical alternatives offered! "You..." Verain truly didn''t know what to say. Ugh... WHY, out of every single class that''s offered, would you chose this useless one! Book 1, Chapter 3 - Crimson Premonition (Pt. 3.1/3.3) Book 1, Chapter 3 - Crimson Premonition (Pt. 3.1/3.3) "Synth. Can you please come up with a feasible explanation as to why you would choose something like this as a class?" Verain said coldly, staring daggers at Synth. Seeing the unamicable expression that Verain had on his face, and the strange light in Verain''s eyes, Synth felt beads of sweat starting to form on the back of his neck. Hurriedly waving his hands, Synth started to explain why he had decided to chosen what others would consider to be a useless class. "Verain, you should know that my latent talent is at the Spark Stage, right?" Verain nodded. "Right. I could judge from your aura. I have a strong affinity to Darkness, after all." What the hell does an affinity to darkness have to do with judging someone''s aura? Doesn''t it just make the power of their spells stronger? Unless Verain''s an assassin or something? Pushing that thought out of his mind, Synth replied, "Yes. Due to my latent talent being horrible, I wish to study the Magic System and see if I can find a way around this demerit. Also, I want to research information on my strange Energy Base." Verain raised a hand to his chin, and grinned. "If it''s like that, then I guess you taking this course is justified." "Justified? What are you, my guardian? Having to overlook everything that I do?" Synth joked. Although this was meant as a joke, for some reason, an extremely painful stinging sensation suddenly assaulted Synth, making him temporarily lose his balance. "Ah!" Just as his face was about to collide with the board, Verain reached out a hand, pulling Synth back. "Oi. Are you all right?" Synth laughed awkwardly, before making a troubled expression. "Sorry. For some reason, a spark of pain assaulted my mind..." For a moment, Verain''s eyes grew sharp, almost turning into a crescent moon, as if trying to evaluate something. Quickly withdrawing his gaze, his face returned to its usual placid expression. "Well. Since today is the first day, the first two lessons in the morning, The Runic Languages and Battle Basics classes are cancelled. However, we still have to go to the other class that we signed up for." "My class, [Adv. Darkness] starts at 5:20pm, so I have plenty of time to kill. However, your first class, [Adv. Light], should be starting now... in fact, you''re half an hour late for the class. It''s 11:45am right now." Hearing these careless words, Synth''s expression immediately paled. Glancing once at the pocket watch that Verain brought out, Synth hurriedly left the auditorium, while saying over his shoulder, "Crap! Sorry Verain, need to go!" "See you." Verain replied, casually waving a hand in Synth''s direction. When Synth''s back disappeared from sight, his eyes grew sharp again, focusing in the direction where Synth left. Hmm... did that Binding Contract have a flaw? Well, whatever. It''s not made to contract with humans, after all. If anything happens, I can deal with it. ______________________________________________________________ "Is this the place?" Synth was currently standing in front of a tall building three stories high. All in all, it appeared to be a very ordinary building, but that was only because it was constructed using Magic Absorbing Bricks, in fear of any ''accidents'' that might happen in these magic classes. Magic Absorbing Bricks were, like their name implied, plain looking bricks that could hold and absorb magic up to a certain amount, depending on the quality of the magic bricks. This commodity was also used to create defensive walls around the towns, and although saw widespread usage, the manufacturing process was unknown to most of the general population. Only a select few knew the exact refining and manufacturing recipe of these bricks. They also had a ranking system intact, and higher ranked Magic Absorbing Bricks could withstand spells of a higher caliber. For the academy''s purposes, the Magic Absorbing Bricks used were a combination of B and C rank bricks. Sighing, Synth made his way inside the building. Each floor had roughly twelve classrooms, and the name of the class currently being taught was on an indication marker outside the door. It seemed that the first and second years had classes on the first floor of the building, while the third and fourth years had classes on the second floor. The fifth years and sixth years had their lessons on the third floor. Walking to the door with the words [Light-Elemental Class] written beside it, Synth gingerly opened the door and walked in. What he saw upon entry was an almost empty classroom, having just two youths sitting at the desks in the back row, looking disinterested. Standing at the front of the room, next to a chalkboard, was a relatively young woman that appeared to be in her middle 20''s. Upon seeing the new arrival, the eyes of the female teacher lit up, and the two youths turned around to size Synth up. Feeling a bit awkward, Synth walked to the back of the room, and took a seat next to the two youths who were currently also sitting there. "Hello! Are you here for the [Light-Elemental Class] or the [Adv. Light-Elemental Class]?" The teacher asked, with a friendly tone. Synth looked up, then replied, "I signed up for the [Adv. Light-Elemental Class]." Upon hearing this, the female instructor motioned for Synth to stay seated. A bit confused with the amount of students attending the Light-Element classes, Synth couldn''t help but ask, "Only three people are taking Light-Element classes?" The female instructor sighed. "Yes. All three of you are taking the [Adv. Light-Elemental Class]. In reality, nobody really wants to take this class if they don''t have an affinity to Light." Synth was puzzled. Nobody wanted to take the Light-Element spell classes? Why? What was the reason for this? As if understanding what was going on in Synth''s mind, the brown-haired youth next to him spoke out, "Tch. Why are you so surprised? You seriously don''t know the reason why no one likes to participate in these [Light-Element] magic classes?" Judging by the blank expression on his face, and seeing that Synth truly didn''t know, the brown-haired youth let out a sigh and began explaining. "[Light] based magics are considered useless, trash magics by many. Most of the spells focus on defense and support, and there are barely any offensive spells in this category. Not many people are willing to take this class because of this. They prefer to focus on offensive magics." Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. "Oh, so there''s such a reason." Synth understood. After all, many of the people attending were hot-blooded youths. More action was going to be on the front lines, rather than staying in back and supporting the group with utility spells. Also, the fact that [Light] based magic mainly focused on defensive spells was a bit... that. For those reasons, Synth could see why it wouldn''t be too popular. Continuing on, the brown-haired youth next to Synth kept on talking. "In short, the only reason why we''re here is because we have an affinity to this queer element. If I didn''t, there''s no way in hell that I''d be taking this class." "Hey, Ceno! You do realize that Teacher can hear you, right?" The sudden interjection from the female instructor caused the youth next to him to smirk, while also causing Ceno''s face to turn red. Ceno awkwardly laughed. "Sorry, Instructor Liling." The female lecturer sighed, then said, "Even though there are only fifteen minutes left remaining in the period, I do wish to do something constructive. I don''t really blame you three for this, as today was the Class Registration Day, but we need to do something productive." "Therefore, I will introduce a spell array for you all to study. Try your best to reproduce it, okay?" "This spell is called [Sunlight Shield]. Its effect is quite self-explanatory. It creates a gentle shield of light that envelops the user''s body. The amount of time that it lasts and its durability is reliant on how much energy is used when creating it." Ceno raised a hand in objection, as if not wanting to do what the instructor asked. "Teacher, Yun and I already know how to do this. We''re second-year students, after all. Shouldn''t you be explaining that to the new kid? Blue and I both want to work on the magical array of [Light-Spear Blast]." Hearing this, Synth awkwardly chuckled while saying, "Today''s my first day. Er... I haven''t even taken a single [Battle Basics Class] or [Runic Languages Class]. In short, I think that with my current knowledge, I have no way to reproduce the magical array needed to cast spells." Although using arrays was not the only way to be able to cast spells, and was in fact more troublesome than its counterpart, Chanted Spells, when one was able to understand the spell''s base of origin, then they would be able to use it more effectively. The other benefit of doing this was that one could store the magic array inside a Charge Drive. In doing so, the spell could be instantly cast using the weapon was a medium. "Fine. If it''s like that, then although you can''t learn the magical array of [Sunlight Shield], you can still learn the chant for it, right?" Instructor Liling asked. "Erm, no... I still haven''t even learned the very basics of the runic languages..." Although Synth tried to protest, in the end, he gave in to the instructor''s constant pestering. Inwardly sighing, he listened to the magical chant used to cast the spell [Sunlight Shield], and tried his best to repeat it. It seemed as if the majority of new students broke through already and became Mind Invokers, using the World Essence Crystal that the school provided. Therefore, it was assumed that the new students already had Energy Bases, and could draw from their reserve of energy to power and maintain the spells. "O, Golden, Sanctioned Light, bless me with your divine protection, and protect me from ill omen..." Chanting the magical incantation in the runic language to activate the spell, a brilliant golden luster faintly enveloped Synth''s body. His body shone with a golden radiance, and it was bright enough to hurt one''s eyes if one wasn''t prepared. However, for some reason, Synth found it hard to keep the [Sunlight Shield] up for more than a few seconds, before his Energy Base gave up on him, and completely drained out. When one does not have sufficient energy left to keep a spell going, the spell would naturally dissipate. The golden luster that was currently enveloping Synth''s body slowly faded, and Synth tiredly sat down in the chair. "Instructor, wasn''t forcing me to maintain that for five seconds too harsh? I just broke through and became a Mind Invoker, after all. I still haven''t really experimented with my Energy Base yet." Hearing this, the female lecturer gave Synth a puzzled, and annoyed look. "If you don''t have the willpower to hold on and do this, then just leave the Academy already. Since you''re this audacious, I''ll give you some extra homework. Learn the [Mortal Judgement] Magical Array AND Chant by Friday." Damn! Why is my luck so bad??? Pushing aside the negative thoughts wandering about in his mind, Synth bitterly cursed under his breath, while accepting the handout that the female teacher gave him. Looking at the runic words for the [Mortal Judgement] spell, a grin spread across Synth''s face. If one was familiar with him, they would be able to instantly recognize this as Synth having a very mischievous idea. I want to see how powerful an offensive light-magic is! "O, Blessed Spirits of the Heavens, Judgement Day has come. Punish these ignorant mortals who refuse to acknowledge your divine grace..." The reason why Synth was able to understand the runes used in the chant for [Mortal Judgement] was because they were extremely similar to the runes used in the [Sunlight Shield] spell, that he had hastily memorized in a few minutes, under the instructor''s guiding. Before the three other people in the room could react, Synth was already chanting the magic spell for [Mortal Judgement]. However, since it was chanted in an extremely rushed fashion, and also the fact that Synth''s knowledge of the runic languages were still rudimentary, a part of the chant got sabotaged. Hearing this, the facial expression on the female instructor''s face changed dramatically. "Not good!" Ceno hurriedly rushed to stop Synth from continuing, but his chant was already almost completed. *BOOM*! A violent explosion rocked the classroom. Book 1, Chapter 3 - Crimson Premonition (Pt. 3.2/3.3) DA here, um, yeah, life''s been busy and stuff. That''s why I haven''t been active. However, I plan to release during Winter Break so ^.^'', bear w/ my schedule. Anyways, if you couldn''t tell, I plan for the first book to be a build up for the second one. Build up, as in Characters, Factions, World-Building, etc. As I am a novice writer I would appreciate tips on how to make my writing better from all of you, as well. Even to me, my writing seems a bit bland, at times -.-''. But, thank you all for the support that you have shown for me so far; the little thank yous at the end of each part means quite a bit, and also motivates me to continue. (Now, I actually need to do the last part, myself, haha xD). Well anyways, this chapter sort of lacks action, but the arcs with fighting (And not OP dominance) will start soon, so please bear with me here :D Website: dawnv2.wordpress.com Thank you all & Enjoy your Thanksgiving, DA~ __________________________________________________________________ Book 1, Chapter 3 - Crimson Premonition (Pt. 3.2/3.3) "Synth... was that truly how your [Adv. Light-Element Class] went? You blew up part of the classroom?" "It wasn''t my fault! I just wanted to test out the strength of an offensive light-element magic!" Two youths, one wearing a white uniform interlaced with gold and the other wearing a black uniform interlaced with scarlet were walking down the hallway, casually chatting. This sight was something common to behold, as one walked down the various hallways of the buildings on the Magecroft Institute Campus. These two youths were none other than Synth and Verain. Normally, when one saw a sight like this, they would give a friendly smile and just walk right past them, not bothering to look back again. However, there was something particularly striking about this particular duo - their uniforms. Synth''s uniform showed that he was part of the [Light-Element Class], while Verain''s showed that he was part of the [Darkness-Element Class]. Normally, students that trained in elements that countered each other would normally be similar to oil and fire; they did not mix well together. But seeing how Verain and Synth were amicably chatting with no trace of open hostility between them made many people turn their heads to observe, mildly shocked. "Damn! I didn''t know that offensive light-based magics were so strong! I thought that light based spells were mainly used defensively!" "Hahaha..." Synth was currently trying to explain to Verain what had happened during his Elemental Class, to try to get him to understand his woes. However, Verain was laughing uncontrollably upon hearing this, and paid Synth''s complaints no mind. "Are you serious...? I didn''t think that you''d be that idiotic." "What? What do you mean by that?" Ignoring Verain''s snide remark, Synth confusedly asked about the intricacies of Light-Based Magics. Verain grinned wryly, before saying, "Listen up. Just because an element is called weak doesn''t mean that you should think of it as weak before testing it out. Underestimating something can be the difference between a win or defeat, and in the most extreme cases, life and death." "The reason why Light-Based magics are considered weak are because of the fact that many of the Grand Invokers of the Court use defensive light spells only, to protect the King. They rarely use Light-Magic when it comes to offensive firepower, because many other elements outstrip the burst power of Light Magic. However, that isn''t to say that Light-Magic, offensively, is something to be taken as a joke. Who knows; maybe you''ll regret that you''ve looked down on Light-Magic after spells such as [Lightsword Photon] slice your neck off, due to your underestimation of that form of magic." Synth: "..." "Anyways, realistically speaking however, the Light-Based Magics taught at this academy are mainly defensive spells. The only offensive ones that are covered in the curriculum are [Judgement] and [Light Ray]." Hearing all of this, Synth shot an exasperated look at Verain. "How the hell do you know all this?" Verain chuckled. "Research. What, you''re telling me that you don''t even look up the school that you''re going to?" "Uh..." Synth stood dumbstruck, not knowing what to say. "Well, whatever. Since we''re roommates, I''ll try to help out as best as I can. Anyways, later." With a casual wave of his hand, Verain parted ways with Synth and walked out of the building. Synth sighed. "Damn, only spent two days at the Academy and I''m already a problem child." Come to think of it, I still have quite a while before my [Adv. Fire-Element Class] starts. I might as well explore this campus a bit, and familiarize myself with the surroundings. Come to think of it, I believe that there''s a library here... After making up his mind, the first place that Synth decided to visit was the library. It was relatively easy to find, as he asked a fellow student for instructions on the way there. The library was in the middle of the campus, and was truly hard to miss. Greeting the librarian at the counter, Synth grabbed a book outlining the structure and buildings within the Magecroft Academy campus, and began to read. "The Magecroft Academy, home of the finest minds of magic and spellcraft that the world has ever seen, prides itself on the fact that it produces so many elite Invokers that serve the Human Army..." ______________________________________________________________ In a secluded woods, near the academy campus, two students of the Magecroft Academy were facing each other. One was holding a glimmering silver spear, while the other was wielding a pair of obsidian daggers. "So, let me get down to the chase, kid. I''d like you to disappear from the Academy, so that I can do my thing here. With your existence, my goals are compromised." The hooded youth wielding the daggers snicked, his words carrying a hint of arrogance. "Hmmh. You dare to challenge me, Venis Arkwold, of the Arkwold House? Impudent!" The golden-haired youth wielding a spear replied, obviously angry at the provocative tone of his opponent''s words. "Don''t you know who you''re offending?" The dagger wielding youth smiled, his grin deeply making Venis''s body feel cold. "Hey, I''m giving you a chance, you know. To remain alive, that is. Of course, I''m going to need to put a spell on you, to make sure that you won''t speak of the events that transpired between us here today." With the way that the dagger wielding youth was talking to the spear wielding son of the Arkwold House, many would assume that he was insane. What type of existance was the Arkwold House? It was one of the Four Noble Aristocratic Houses! Offending the people who were part of this House would make many people cringe in fear, and fear for their lives. After all, aristocrats could ruin lives easily with the amount of influence that they had. Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. However, this youth... did not seem to care about the consequences of offending such an important House! If he had the courage to do something such as this, then the dagger wielding youth must have quite a bit of influence or power to not fear the repercussions of angering one of the members of the Arkwold House. Hearing this, the golden-haired youth stared coldly at the dagger-wielding youth, his face ablaze with anger. "You dare to talk to me like that? Do you even think that you''re able to match up to me in terms of ability? DIE!" With a sudden lunge, Venis charged forwards at the dagger wielding youth, his spear tip pointing at his throat. His body flashed, and it seemed as though his aura was hidden by the wind itself. This was the Low-Calamity ranked spell, [Wind Haze]! An auxiliary spell that allowed one''s speed to triple, and also allowed the user to blend into the wind, making him hard to target! Casting a Calamity Rank spell was quite an impressive feat, especially because Veris was a third-year student - being able to cast a spell like that, while he was only 17 was a truly awe-inspiring move. His body faded out, then reappeared, the tip of his spear decreasing in distance in relation to the other youth''s neck. However, the dagger wielding youth was unfazed. "Heh, that''s all you got? I expected something more... oh well." Quickly, the dagger wielding youth sliced upwards with one dagger, and thrust sideways with the other. A relatively basic form of daggerplay, meant to parry and then surprise attack, to catch the opponent off guard. The dagger wielding youth managed to block the advance of the spear, but his upwards slash hit thin air. Seeing how his opponent didn''t even use magic to block his attack, Venis sneered, before accelerating to the limit. "DIE!" Once more, the spear was thrust towards the dagger wielding youth''s neck. "So predictable... this is why it''s no fun, playing with you guys. Well, time to end things." The pair of daggers that he was holding began to glow with an obsidian light, as if storing up energy for something. His body slowly fazed away, into the darkness as well. "Wind''s not the only element that can utilize stealth advantages, you know. Darkness can, as well." Suddenly, a brilliant burst of purple light shot out of the dagger, and pierced straight north. A miserable scream could be heard shortly afterwards. "You thought that you could hide from me, eh? Guess not. Your spearplay was also horrible. Please, don''t pick up a melee weapon unless you''ve had some experience as a Chevalier, otherwise it''s no fun to sweep the floor with you guys." "Sigh... this wasn''t even a real battle. Although it''s impressive that he was able to display that output of power at his age, my power vastly outstrips his." Walking to the corpse that had a bloody hole blasted into the forehead, he began to strip all the valuables it contained. When he was done, the dagger wielding youth tapped something shaped like a vial on his waist. Strangely enough, the body began melting into a pool of flesh and blood, and suddenly turned into a black liquid when it was done dissolving. "Well, guess my job is done here. After all, I''m only in this for that reason... the R&D Department of the Arkwold House doesn''t need to ruin our plans. To be honest, I wanted to get this job done quickly and do a sneak attack on him, but I felt the need to oppress someone, and overpower them... you understand, right, Verain? I promise that nobody will find out the perpetrators of this crime, though. Haven''t we already committed quite a few, over the years?" Tapping a glowing talisman and leaving behind those parting words, the figure disappeared in the distance. ______________________________________________________________ Magecroft Academy. Library. Synth suddenly woke up with a start, his head jerking up from the books that they were buried in. "Oh, did I fall asleep? Well, couldn''t help it. These books were relatively boring, after all." Quickly piling his books up in a neat order, Synth returned them to the original bookshelves, and quietly left the library. Although it seemed as though this lazy youth wasted his time, Synth still had managed to learn where everything was around campus during this time, and only fell asleep after reading for a few hours. "Come to think of it, I haven''t even eaten lunch yet, and it''s 2:00. Well, I guess I still have some time to go grab a bite to eat." Walking back to his dorm room, Synth knocked on the door once, to see if his roommate was in there. "Verain? You there?" Hearing no response, Synth shrugged and opened the door. Grabbing a few Xena, Synth locked the door behind him and went to the cafeteria to grab a bite to eat before his next class of the day. While eating, he had run into Ceno, who jokingly told him to try not to blow anything else up. "I seriously didn''t mean to do that! I just wanted to test out the attack power of the Light-Magic!" Hearing this, Ceno grinned. "Don''t worry; there are only three people in our class anyways, and Yun and I don''t really care about it. The teacher doesn''t care much about that mishap, either. But you better watch your step in the other classes; something like that could get you kicked out for good of that class." "Thanks for telling me. I''ll try to be careful." After thanking Ceno, Synth made his way towards the classroom for the [Adv. Fire-Magic Class]. Unbeknownst to him, a certain person was stalking him, watching his moves from the shadows. "Hmn... with the way things are going, Synth really isn''t doing anything to increase his power yet... I need to imbue him with some cultivation methods, along with some magics, as well. After all, the stronger he gets, the better when he''s turned into a puppet, carrying out my whims. In three year''s time, I can turn him into my prototype for that project..." "Heh. I''m guessing that the others weren''t expecting this to happen, were they? Well, they''ll be pleasantly surprised, soon enough." "Right. These types of people, with no personality, and a cliched view of the world, are easy trick, and even easier to ''break'' down mentally." "Well. It''s about time I head back, and give a report to the Elders of the Clan. I''m sure that they''ll be happy upon hearing this..."