The Order of Mathemancer

Luc's anticipation grew as he stood outside the inn where Sir Langlangs was staying. They had arranged to meet the day after the representative selection, and Luc's mind was consumed by thoughts of his mysterious third rune. Sleep eluded him throughout the night, and as morning arrived, he wasted no time in heading towards the inn.

Finally, Sir Langlangs emerged and invited Luc into his chamber. Taking precautions to ensure their conversation remained confidential, Sir Langlangs began with a serious tone, "Luc, what I am about to share with you carries great significance. I am a member of an esteemed group of mages known as the Order of Mathemancers."

Luc's curiosity was piqued, and he listened intently, sensing that the information he was about to receive would profoundly impact his understanding of magic. Sir Langlangs continued, "In the realm of Arkania, magic is a foundational force that shapes our lives. Despite humans having average magical affinity compared to other races, we possess a wide range of elements at our disposal. However, there is one area of knowledge that has been neglected. Can you guess what it is?"

After a moment of contemplation, Luc replied, "Arithmetic or geometry?" A smile crept across Sir Langlangs' face as he confirmed Luc's answer, "Exactly. Yet, these disciplines fall under the vast umbrella of mathematics." Luc's astonishment grew as he realized the connection between his runes and the realm of mathematics. "It appears that my affinity and the Order of Mathemancers are intricately intertwined," he mused.

Sir Langlangs nodded in agreement, acknowledging the significance of mathematical knowledge within the Order. "Indeed, mathematical pursuits are at the core of every member of our esteemed group. Unlike other domains of science, where results can be directly validated through practical applications, mathematics has lacked such tangible confirmations. This led many to overlook its potential in favor of more immediately verifiable sciences."

"Validation, however, holds great importance," Sir Langlangs continued. "As humans, we face various threats from within and from other races. The ability to harness the discoveries and advancements made in other fields of science grants us an advantage in these challenges. Mathematics, lacking such direct applications, often fell by the wayside. But there were mages who chose not to follow the prevailing tide and continued to delve deeper into the realm of mathematics."

Sir Langlangs paused for a moment, reflecting on the perseverance and dedication of those mages. "One such mage, after theorizing that numbers could be represented on a line, made a profound breakthrough. It was through this discovery that he acquired the mathematical nexus rune."

Luc's mind buzzed with questions, and he couldn't help but voice his confusion. "But isn't elemental affinity fixed after the awakening ceremony? How could mathematics enhance it?

Sir Langlangs smiled, recognizing Luc's curiosity, for he too had once stood in Luc's shoes. "Luc, mathematics indeed appears to be one of the pathways to enhance our elemental affinity. The mathematical nexus rune not only granted its possessor a deeper understanding of the numerical realm, but it also brought about unexpected changes. It allowed the mage to wield their elemental magic with greater finesse, unlocking a newfound efficiency and potency in spellcasting. It enabled them to surpass the barriers that low-grade affinity users often face when attempting to learn higher-grade spells."

Luc's mind raced with the weight of the responsibility that lay before him. The invitation to join the Order of Mathemancers was an honor, but it also carried profound implications for his future. The opportunity to delve deeper into the mysteries of mathematics and magic was enticing, but he knew he needed time to fully comprehend the gravity of this decision.

Sir Langlangs nodded understandingly, recognizing the significance of Luc's request. "Of course, Luc. This is a life-altering choice, and it is only right that you take the time to consider it carefully. I understand the weight of the information I have shared with you, and I appreciate your discretion."

Before Luc left, Sir Langlangs handed him a parchment containing the oath of secrecy. "I trust that you will honor the confidentiality of our discussion, regardless of the path you choose. This knowledge is sacred and should only be shared among those who have dedicated themselves to the pursuit of the mathematical nexus."

Luc accepted the parchment and solemnly read the words inscribed upon it. With a steady hand, he signed his name, understanding the importance of keeping the Order's secrets safe.

"I will take this oath seriously, Sir Langlangs," Luc declared, his voice filled with determination. "I will weigh my decision carefully and consider the impact it will have on my future. Tomorrow, I will provide you with my answer."

Sir Langlangs nodded approvingly. "I have faith in your ability to make the right choice, Luc. Take your time, and remember that this path will require dedication, perseverance, and a thirst for knowledge. I eagerly await your decision."

With that, Luc bid farewell to Sir Langlangs, his mind filled with a mixture of excitement, uncertainty, and the anticipation of the path that lay ahead. He knew that whatever choice he made would shape his destiny and set him on a unique journey in the realm of mathematics and magic.

As Luc entered the inn, a sense of clarity washed over him. He had spent the night wrestling with his doubts and fears, but in the end, his desire for knowledge and his thirst to uncover the secrets of the mathematical nexus prevailed.

Sir Langlangs greeted Luc with a knowing smile, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Luc, I am delighted to see that you have chosen to join the Order of Mathemancers," he said warmly. "Your dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and your willingness to embrace the mysteries of magic and mathematics will serve you well on this path."

Luc returned the smile, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. The decision had not come easily, but deep down, he knew that this was the right choice for him. The opportunity to explore the intricate connections between mathematics and magic, and to unlock his full potential as an awakened, filled him with a sense of purpose and excitement.

"Thank you, Sir Langlangs," Luc replied earnestly. "I am ready to embark on this journey with the Order, to delve into the depths of mathematics and discover the true extent of the power that lies within the mathematical nexus."

Sir Langlangs nodded, his eyes shining with pride. "Welcome, Luc, to the Order of Mathemancers. Your dedication and thirst for knowledge will be a valuable asset to our pursuit. Together, we shall unravel the secrets of the arcane and forge new paths in the realms of magic and mathematics."

With their shared commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and the unveiling of the mathematical nexus, Luc and Sir Langlangs set forth on a journey that would challenge their intellect, test their abilities, and open doors to a world of magic and numbers unlike anything they had ever imagined. The Order of Mathemancers awaited them, ready to guide and support them as they ventured into uncharted territories of power and understanding. And so, Luc's path was set.