Embarking on the Path of Power
The group, with a sense of purpose arrived back at the hallowed grounds of venue D.
With purposeful strides, they approached the admission hall, where the initiation of Roy and the girls as first-year adepts awaited.
In the ritual of enrollment, each novice was bestowed with 100 humble low-grade mana crystals, tangible reservoirs of magic potential, and a sacred magic handbook—a compendium pulsating with instructions, rituals, and profound insights, was handed to them.
This guide served as a beacon, leading them to align with magical forces, enhance their connection to mystical realms, and refine their burgeoning magical abilities.
However, the true crown jewel of their induction was the presentation of the obsidian academy uniforms and enchanted robes. Emblazoned with the academy crest, these garments marked their official entry into the illustrious institution.
Each uniform was adorned with a belt signifying their initial mastery of magic proficiency. But beyond the symbolic significance, the enchanted robes held a practical purpose.
Woven with intricate runes and imbued with subtle magic, they offered a multitude of benefits. They could bolster the wearer's defenses, enhance their physical agility, and even amplify their magical capabilities.
Aurora and Selene received robes shimmering with vibrant orange, while Roy, in recognition of his exceptional display of prowess, was presented with a set radiating a radiant yellow hue – a testament to his budding mastery over the elements.
It has to known that in the in the hallowed halls of the academy, where the arcane arts dance with the minds of the gifted, the color of a mage's belt is not merely a swath of fabric, but a vibrant emblem of status and prowess.
As a mage ascends through the ranks of mastery, their belt transforms like a chameleon, mirroring the kaleidoscope of their talent and dedication.
From humble novices adorned in hues of orange, to the illustrious archmages draped in robes of purple, the chromatic spectrum of belts weaves a tapestry of achievement, whispered in the corridors of magic and revered by all who tread its sacred halls.
Cromwell's gaze held theirs, building the anticipation. Finally, he spoke, his voice ringing out," In recognition of your remarkable abilities and the limitless potential I see within you, you are chosen to join the esteemed ranks of the academy's elite class!"
"Feel free to explore your dorms or wander the academy's halls at your leisure," Cromwell declared with a genial smile.
"But do keep in mind, lectures commence in a week, so make the most of your well-deserved break!"
Roy, grasping the significance of Cromwell's words, inclined his head in a respectful bow. His gesture conveyed gratitude towards Lady Silvia and the Head Instructor for their invaluable assistance during the exams.
In seamless synchrony, the girls mirrored his gesture, weaving an unspoken tapestry of appreciation for the care extended to them.
"Young man," Silvia said, her voice laced with intrigue, "Do seek me out in my study after the examinations. There's a matter I wish to discuss." With a final, enigmatic glance, she vanished like a wisp of smoke.
Meanwhile, Cromwell, his brow furrowed in concentration, turned his attention back to the ongoing examination, ensuring its smooth execution.
A mischievous glint danced in Roy's eyes as he met the girls' gaze. "Well, ladies," he announced, a playful smirk gracing his lips, "it seems we're on our own for now. Shall we embark on a voyage of discovery and delve into the secrets of our new dwellings?"
The girls readily agreed, their faces mirroring his excitement.
Dusk was settling, casting long shadows across the academy grounds.
With a shared sense of purpose, they parted ways, the girls heading towards the designated female dorms while Roy set off for the male quarters.
As elite students, they were each granted the privilege of individual bachelor apartments, offering a haven of solitude amidst the bustling academy life.
Stepping into his room, Roy shed the day's trials with a quick-wash and slipped into a comfortable change of clothes.
Seeking a moment of quiet reflection, he settled onto the bed, assuming a lotus position. As he closed his eyes, a familiar sensation washed over him as he delved into the depths of his mind—his mindscape.
Opening his eyes within, a familiar landscape unfolded, a starry expanse reflecting his deep connection to the Nova Core.
With a practiced hand gesture, a shimmering grimoire materialized before him.
This wasn't just any book; it was an intricate record of his very being. Within its pages lay the tapestry of his past life experiences, every spell he'd mastered, from the most basic to the divine, along with a wealth of magical skills and techniques meticulously inscribed.
A frown creased Roy's brow as he skimmed through the academy's magic handbook which was next to the grimoire .
"Decent, but hardly enough to push my body to its limits," he muttered, the fire of ambition burning bright in his eyes. No, he needed something more potent, a spell that resonated with his very being.
As if sensing his desire, the grimoire sprang open on its own accord, its pages fluttering rapidly until they settled on a specific section. There, amidst swirling script and ancient symbols, a single phrase stood out: "Mystic Resonance Manual."
The lettering pulsed with an otherworldly cerulean light, then began to detach, each letter swirling like a miniature constellation before converging on Roy's forehead.
The sensation was both exhilarating and slightly unnerving. As the final letter settled, a surge of energy coursed through him, leaving behind a tingling awareness. He knew, instinctively, that the knowledge he sought now resided within, waiting to be unlocked.
A triumphant grin spread across Roy's face.
"Now this is exactly what I needed," he declared, his voice brimming with excitement.
"With this Mystic Resonance Manual, my mana absorption rate will skyrocket, easily surpassing the academy's paltry guide by tenfold!"
Without wasting a moment, he delved into the manual, immersing himself in its arcane secrets. As he read, the surrounding mana swirled around him, drawn in by an invisible force. The newly acquired manual amplified this process, allowing him to absorb mana at an unprecedented rate.
However, Roy wasn't just any ordinary mage. Since awakening his newfound physique and bloodline, he had undergone a remarkable transformation. His mana core, now twice the size of a regular mage's, thrummed with potent energy.
His sensitivity to mana had intensified, granting him control comparable to a 1st rank Mystic Fusion Haven mage – a level far exceeding his current rank of elemental adept.
Moreover, the purity of the mana he absorbed surpassed regular mana by a factor of ten, further fueling his extraordinary potential.
The reason behind Roy's exceptional mana absorption lay in his unique physique. It automatically refined the mana he absorbed into a condensed form, albeit in smaller quantities.
While this slowed his rank advancement compared to others, Roy wasn't concerned. He knew of magical treasures that could accelerate progress for those with talent, and moreover he valued quality over quantity. Besides, his newfound abilities already granted him strength comparable to a peak low-rank elemental adept, putting him above most of his peers.
Thus a week flew by as Roy immersed himself in attunement and utilized the 100 mana crystals. While his rank remained unchanged, it became steady, his body adjusted to the power within his palms.
As morning came, the academic year beckoned. He emerged from his meditative state and prepared for his first lecture.
Ready and eager, he made his way towards the elite class, spotting Aurora and Selene engaged in conversation. With a smile, he approached them, ready to embark on this new chapter in his magical journey.
"Good morning to you both! Well, look at you two achievers. Aurora, soaring to the 8th-ranked Novice mage is quite an accomplishment," he continued, gesturing towards a beaming Aurora.
"And Selene, blazing trails as a 1st-rank elemental adept is no small feat either." he added, nodding towards a grinning Selene.
"Both your dedication has me floored! Consider me thoroughly impressed." he declared with a wide smile.
"And as a token of my admiration, I've got something special planned for you ladies," Roy announced, winking conspiratorially.
"Shall we rendezvous post-lecture for a little celebration?" he inquired, raising an eyebrow playfully.
"Sounds great!" they both replied enthusiastically, their voices filled with excitement.
Ding-dong! The sound of a bell rang.
He nodded "Alright let's get into class."
As the fifty-one students settled into their designated seats, a distinguished figure entered the lecture hall. A handsome middle-aged man with refined features stood before them, adorned in elegant violet robes and sporting gold-rimmed glasses.
"Good morning, everyone," he greeted with a warm smile. "First and foremost, allow me to extend my congratulations and welcome you to the prestigious Hexcraft Academy's elite class. You may address me as Professor Goldendale."
His gaze swept across the room, taking in each eager face. "Every individual seated here is considered a prodigy by the academy," he continued, his voice resonating with authority.
"This recognition comes with certain privileges, as we prepare you for the upcoming continental tournament scheduled for approximately seven months from now."
A hush fell over the class as Professor Goldendale addressed the elephant in the room. "Some of you may be aware, while others may not, our academy has unfortunately faced a string of defeats in the past five decades.Therefore this year, the responsibility to break this curse and rewrite our fate rests upon your shoulders."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "You will face formidable opponents from other kingdoms, students arrogance comparable or even superior talents. To equip you for this challenge, the academy will grant you unrestricted access to its facilities, including the higher floors of the library without requiring any hexpoints—a currency within the academy earned through contributions to the academy.
"Additionally, your ventures outside the academy will not be restricted, although I urge you to exercise caution. After all, we wouldn't want our rivals to eliminate us before the tournament even begins, would we?"
Professor Goldendale's speech set the stage for an intense and crucial year for the elite class. The weight of expectation hung heavy in the air, but so did the unwavering determination of the students, their eyes burning with the desire to prove themselves and bring glory to Hexcraft Academy.
"Yes, professor!" they chorused in unison, their voices echoing with newfound purpose.
Excellent," he declared, his voice softening slightly.
"Now, let us embark on a journey into the very heart of your academic odyssey. Within these hallowed halls, you will encounter seven distinct paths of magical mastery, each beckoning you to explore its unique wonders."
He paused, his gaze sweeping across the eager faces, his words hanging heavy in the air.
"Sorcery, the art of wielding raw magical power; Summoning, the ability to call upon otherworldly entities to fight at your side; Artifice, the intricate dance of imbuing objects with magical properties; Alchemy, the science of transforming matter and concocting potent elixirs; Paladinhood, the unwavering devotion to wielding holy magic for protection and justice; and Clericism, the channeling of divine energy for healing and support."
"His voice dropped to a low hum, his words resonating with an almost mystical quality.
"Therefore choose wisely, young prodigies," he continued, his eyes twinkling with wisdom. "For this decision will not only shape your expertise but also forge your very identity within the boundless realm of magic. As such, should any doubts cloud your judgment, remember, the wisdom of the academy's instructors is at your disposal."
A tense silence descended upon the hall as the students grappled with the enormity of their choices.
The weight of expectation, the promise of glory, and the looming shadow of the continental tournament all swirled within them, creating a potent cocktail of emotions.
Professor Goldendale paused, allowing his words to resonate. "Any questions thus far?" he inquired, his gaze sweeping across the attentive faces.
Finally, a single student, unable to contain his burning curiosity, hesitantly raised his hand. "Professor," he stammered, his voice laced with a hint of awe, "are there any rewards associated with this upcoming tournament?"
A hint of amusement danced in Professor Goldendale's eyes. "Indeed, young scholar," he chuckled, "fascinating rewards await those who emerge victorious. Speaking of which, I urge you all to swiftly select your primary and secondary classes. Next month, the academy will host elemental trials – a rigorous assessment designed to evaluate your combat prowess and attunement to your chosen path. The top three teams in this trial will be handsomely rewarded."
A collective gasp rippled through the class. The prospect of not only proving their mettle but also securing coveted prizes further fueled their burgeoning determination.
This was more than just a tournament; it was an opportunity to etch their names in the annals of Hexcraft Academy's history and claim their rightful place among the elite
Professor Goldendale's final words hung in the air, heavy with both liberation and responsibility.
"Alright, class dismissed," he announced, his voice echoing through the hushed hall.
"Remember, the next three years are yours to dedicate to mastering your chosen paths. Should any questions arise, seek guidance from your respective class instructors."
A wave of relief washed over the students, mingled with a surge of nervous excitement.
The weight of expectation still pressed upon them, but now, they were armed with knowledge and purpose. The elite class erupted in a flurry of movement, eager to embark on their individual journeys.
Amongst the dispersing crowd, Aurora and Selene exchanged a determined glance before heading straight for Roy's room.
Their steps echoed with a newfound confidence, fueled by the challenges and rewards that lay ahead. The air thrummed with anticipation as they neared his door, eager to share their thoughts and experiences after their first taste of academic life at Hexcraft Academy.
*
A sharp rap-rap-rap echoed through the chamber.
"Come in!" A gentle, yet magnetic voice resonated from within, beckoning the girls forward.
Curiosity piqued, Aurora and Selene exchanged glances before pushing open the door.
Their eyes fell upon Roy, seated serenely on a cushioned bed, his eyes closed in deep meditation. The room hummed with an air of quiet tranquility, the only sound the rhythmic swirling of the surrounding mana.
For a moment, the girls stood transfixed, hesitant to disturb the peaceful scene. Then, as if sensing their presence, Roy slowly opened his eyes. A warm smile spread across his face, crinkling the corners of his eyes.
"Ah, you're already here!" he exclaimed, his voice carrying a hint of amusement.
"It seems you're both eager. Please, make yourselves at home."
He gestured towards a couple of plush cushions nestled on the floor, their vibrant colors contrasting with the muted tones of the room.
As the girls settled in, a sense of anticipation hung in the air, fueled by the mysterious ambiance and Roy's cryptic words.
"Alright, before we delve into today's agenda," Roy began, his voice still resonating with the calmness of his meditation, "have you two considered the path you wish to embark upon?"
Aurora and Selene exchanged a quick glance, a silent conversation passing between them. They both nodded in unison, a hint of shared excitement flickering in their eyes.
Roy's smile widened, his gaze sweeping over them both.
"Ah, I see," he chuckled, a knowing glint in his eyes. "It seems the whispers of your magic have already begun to guide you. The path of a sorceress, perhaps?"
They offered nervous smiles in response, the weight of this critical decision still lingering in the air.
Roy cleared his throat, his gaze shifting. With a flick of his wrist, a shimmering magic circle materialized in his palm. It pulsed with an otherworldly energy, culminating in the manifestation of a long, dark green needle.
He held it aloft, his eyes gleaming with a hint of intrigue. "Have you guys ever heard of the art of tattooing?" he inquired, his voice laced with curiosity.
Aurora and Selene exchanged bewildered glances. A collective shake of their heads was their answer.
Roy's expression softened with understanding. He knew then that the passage of ten thousand years had indeed taken its toll since his demise. The sands of time had buried countless traditions, leaving him as a relic of a forgotten era.
"This needle in my hand," Roy explained, his voice filled with a hint of reverence, "is used by a rare breed of mages known as tattooists. They wield it not to adorn, but to empower. Much like how rune masters imbue tools with magical properties, tattooists inscribe intricate designs onto the body, each etching a conduit for enhanced magical abilities." He paused, his gaze flickering between the girls, gauging their reactions.
Aurora's voice trembled slightly as she asked, "So, you're proposing... etchings on our bodies?" Her concern was evident, a flicker of apprehension dancing in her eyes.
Roy nodded reassuringly. "Yeap, that's the gist of it," he confirmed with a calm smile, understanding her apprehension.
"Can it truly improve our magical qualifications?" Selene asked, her expression serious and intent.
Roy met her gaze with a knowing smile. "without a doubt ," he affirmed confidently.
"The inscriptions, when done skillfully, have the power to elevate your magical abilities to new heights."
"Though the process is far more intricate than simply marking flesh. Each inscription is a carefully crafted formula, resonating with the individual's unique magical core and amplifying their potential"
Selene wasted no time and swiftly took decisive action. Rising from the sofa, she began to disrobe, elegantly revealing her porcelain skin, her movements imbued with confidence and purpose.
As she shed her garments, the room seemed to hold its breath, captivated by her boldness.
With each article of clothing gracefully discarded, her resolve only grew stronger, her determination shining through her piercing gaze. She knew that this moment marked a turning point, and she was prepared to embrace whatever lay ahead with unwavering courage.
As her plump chest was laid bare for Roy's eyes to feast upon, Selene's hand instinctively moved to shield her modesty, leaving only her abdomen and back exposed to his gaze.
Yet, even in this moment of vulnerability, her confidence remained unshaken, her every movement a testament to her strength and poise.
Roy cleared his throat, momentarily averting his gaze. Despite his vast knowledge and ancient spirit, his physical form remained that of a fifteen-year-old boy in his adolescent stage. He quickly composed himself, his voice regaining its composure.
"If you're certain about this, Selene," he began, his tone respectful, "please lay on the bed with your back facing the ceiling. The process requires precise positioning for the inscription to be effective." he said respectfully, admiring her courage and decisiveness. "
"Okay," she nodded, complying with his instructions and reclining on the bed.
Aurora, standing on the sidelines, felt a pang of envy twist her features. She couldn't shake the feeling that she was the hot-blooded one, yet here she was, a mere spectator. However, she understood the truth – opportunities favor the bold, and she could only lament her own hesitation.