Measuring Power

I walked out of the rector's office with mixed feelings. My first day at Lupusrica Academy was already full of surprises. As I stepped out, I noticed a man standing calmly near the door. 

He was tall, almost twice my height, with a strong posture and a serious expression. He wore a black academy robe with the Regalizen emblem on his shoulder.

"Ellora Evernoir, right?" he asked in a warm tone, though his face remained serious. "I'm Fei Zhang, a special instructor for Regalizen. You'll be studying under me starting today."

I nodded, trying to steady myself. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Instructor Fei Zhang."

"Follow me," he said shortly, turning to walk away. I followed him, my steps hesitant.

Where is this instructor taking me? Are we starting our lessons right now?

We walked through long, winding corridors in the academy. The building felt much larger than it appeared from the outside. Every corner was filled with advanced technology, from holographic screens displaying the latest magic data to small robots scurrying around the floor, carrying various items.

"We're going to measure your magical atomic resonance level here," Fei Zhang said as we arrived at a large room with a thick metal door.

The door slid open automatically as we approached, revealing a large device dominating the room. It looked like a giant purple eye surrounded by cables that resembled veins stretching across the room.

"This is the Quantum's Eye," Fei Zhang explained as he stepped inside. "This device can measure a person's magical energy resonance just by looking at them. Based on your energy resonance, we can determine your magical abilities and potential in detail."

I walked to the center of the room, feeling my heart rate increase. Fei Zhang activated the device, and the giant eye began to glow with an intense purple light. The cables around it started to vibrate slightly, as if sensing my presence.

"Don't worry, this will only take a few seconds," he said, trying to reassure me.

I felt the gaze of the giant eye as if it were penetrating me, examining every part of my being. Soon, a screen next to Fei Zhang displayed the results. He looked at the data, and his eyes widened slightly, though his expression remained calm.

"Integrator? Hmm," he murmured. 

"Ellora, listen carefully. You have an Integrator energy resonance level, equivalent to the Regalizen Commanders. This has never happened before at Lupusrica Academy. Even the current Regalizen Commanders, when they first had their resonance levels measured, never reached the Integrator level; they all started as Synchronizers and became Integrators only after becoming Commanders. I am 100% confident that the Quantum's Eye has never been wrong in measuring someone's magical atomic resonance."

"It seems I need to inform the rector and the Regalizen higher-ups about this," he continued.

Integrator? Synchronizer? This was the first time I'd heard these terms. Are these used to measure someone's strength at Lupusrica Academy?

I looked at Fei Zhang, feeling a bit nervous. "I... I don't want this result to be publicized," I said, trying to sound firm.

"Hmm? Are you sure about that? This is major news that could accelerate your appointment as the 9th Regalizen Commander."

"Yes, I'm sure of my decision."

Fei Zhang regarded me for a few seconds before nodding. "Very well, it is your right. I'll make sure this information is only known to those who need to know."

I felt relieved hearing his response. An Integrator-level magical atoms resonance—I still had a hard time believing I possessed such immense power. However, I also knew that with this strength, the responsibilities on my shoulders would grow even greater.

Fei Zhang turned off the device and led me out of the room. "Next, we'll start with basic lessons to further develop your magical atoms resonance. I want you to stay focused and not be too overwhelmed by the results. Resonance is just the beginning of your journey."

I nodded slowly.

Fei Zhang then took me to another room in the academy, a much smaller space compared to the Quantum's Eye room. Inside, there were various complex-looking technological devices, some emitting colorful lights. In the center of the room was a long table with several chairs around it. Fei Zhang motioned for me to sit in one of the chairs and took the seat across from me.

"Ellora, today we'll begin with the fundamentals of magical atomic resonance," Fei Zhang said, his voice as calm as ever. "Even though you have an Integrator-level resonance, which is the highest, it's important for you to understand how this system works."

I nodded, trying to focus on what he was saying.

"Magical atomic resonance," he continued, "is the measure of how well someone can interact with and manipulate the magical atoms around them. Everyone has a different level of resonance, which determines the strength of the magic they can wield."

Fei Zhang then explained the various levels of resonance. 

"The resonance levels are divided into several main categories: Aligner, Conductor, Resonator, Interferer, Synchronizer, Amplifier, Dominator, and finally, Integrator. Each category reflects how well a person can control and utilize the magical atoms around them."

I listened carefully, trying to absorb all the information he was providing. "Are these rankings permanent?" I asked, curious if someone could advance to a higher level.

"Not always," Fei Zhang replied. "Resonance rankings can improve over time with practice. However, there are natural limits for each individual. Some might only reach the Aligner level, while others have the potential to become a Dominator or even an Integrator."

I began to understand why Fei Zhang was so surprised by my resonance reading. Being an Integrator means I've reached the pinnacle of what's possible. But it also comes with an immense responsibility.

"Regarding the Integrator resonance level," Fei Zhang continued, "it's something very rare. Those at this level have the ability to blend various types of magic and energy, creating techniques that are far more complex and powerful than those achievable by lower levels."

From Fei Zhang's explanation, I gathered the following understanding of the magical atomic resonance levels:

Alignment: This is the basic stage where someone starts to become aware of the magical atoms around them and learns to align their internal magical atoms with the external ones. At this stage, their ability to manipulate magical atoms is still very limited, and they are usually called Aligners.

Conduction: At this stage, a person begins to channel magical atoms from external sources into themselves and vice versa. They can utilize magical atoms for basic techniques and start developing a deeper understanding of how these atoms work. People at this level are referred to as Conductors.

Resonance: At this stage, someone not only aligns and channels magical atoms but also makes them resonate or vibrate at the right frequency. This allows them to significantly enhance the effectiveness of their techniques. Those at this level are known as Resonators.

Interference: Interference is the stage where someone can mix or disrupt the resonance of other people's magical atoms. This allows them to directly interfere with opponents' techniques and better manipulate their environment. Individuals at this level are called Interferers.

Synchronization: At the synchronization stage, a person achieves perfect balance between their internal and external magical atoms. They can use magical atoms with maximum efficiency, and all their actions are in harmony with the magical atoms around them. Those at this level are known as Synchronizers.

Amplification: Amplification is the stage where someone not only synchronizes magical atoms but also significantly boosts their power. They can use magical atoms with much higher intensity than those at lower stages, and they are referred to as Amplifiers.

Domination: At the domination stage, a person can dominate the resonance of magical atoms in their surroundings, imposing their will over others' magical atoms. They can weaken, control, or even channel their opponents' magical atoms for their own advantage. Those at this level are called Dominators.

Integration: This is the highest level where someone not only dominates magical atoms but also integrates their entire essence with the magical atoms around them. At this stage, they achieve a level where they become one with the magical atoms, making them nearly invincible.

Fei Zhang then showed me some diagrams explaining how magical atoms flow through the body and how their resonance interacts with this energy. "Think of resonance as a bridge between yourself and the world of magic. The stronger your resonance, the more magical atoms you can absorb and manipulate."

I started to see how crucial it was to understand this concept. If I wanted to maximize my potential as an Integrator, I needed to fully grasp how magical atoms worked and how to control them.

There seemed to be many complex aspects that I hadn't yet understood.

Fei Zhang then gave me some basic exercises. "This first exercise might seem simple, but it's very important. I want you to focus on sensing the magical atoms around you. Feel how the energy flows and try to draw it into yourself."

I closed my eyes, trying to focus. I felt a subtle vibration in the air around me, a flow of energy that was almost imperceptible. Slowly, I tried to draw that energy into my body. It felt like trying to catch the wind—hard to grasp and even harder to control.

"Don't force it too much," Fei Zhang said, as if he could sense my effort. "Let the energy come to you naturally. Your resonance is already very high, so you just need to get accustomed to the process."

I tried to relax more, letting the energy flow naturally. Little by little, I could feel the energy starting to enter me. It felt like something was warming me from within.

"Good," Fei Zhang said, sounding satisfied. "Now, try directing that energy to one of your hands."

I followed his instructions, feeling the flow of energy move from the center of my body to my hand. I opened my eyes and saw my hand starting to glow with a soft light.

"This is one of the most basic ways to manipulate magical atoms," Fei Zhang explained. "Once you master this technique, we'll move on to more complex techniques."

Isn't this a basic technique I used to practice with Arche? I didn't expect to learn it again here, but now without Arche by my side.

"Next," Fei Zhang continued, "we'll start learning how to blend different types of magic. As an Integrator, you'll have the ability to combine various elements and magical techniques into something new and unique. But remember, it all begins with this fundamental understanding."

I nodded, ready to move forward with the lesson. On this first day, I already felt the weight of the responsibility as a special student at Lupusrica Academy. But on the other hand, I felt excited. Fei Zhang wasn't just an excellent teacher; he also seemed genuinely invested in my progress.

"But before that,"

Fei Zhang, after giving a detailed explanation of energy resonance, suddenly pulled something from his robe. It was an ancient-looking object with a unique design—a lamp shaped like a blooming lotus. A soft light emanated from it, casting a timeless and mysterious aura.

"This," Fei Zhang said, gazing at the object with reverence, "is The Lotus Lamp, or Hehua Deng in the local ancient language. It's one of the rare and valuable quantum artifacts."

I stared at the lamp, intrigued. "Quantum artifact?" I asked, still trying to grasp what Fei Zhang meant.

Nero had mentioned something similar before, but this was the first time I'd seen one up close. Could this be the object that was used to defeat demons back then?

Fei Zhang nodded and began to explain. "Quantum artifacts are relics from the great wars that took place around 2,000 years ago. They are products of magical technology that far exceeds what we have today, and only a few remain in the world. Most of them were found on the continent of Fertissio, a place filled with mysteries and dangers."

I listened intently, captivated by his story. Fei Zhang continued, "The Lotus Lamp is one of the most revered quantum artifacts. Fortunately, it has been authorized by the Academy to be used as a teaching example. In ancient times, knights used it as protection during the great war against demon armies. This lamp has the ability to repel various monsters and demons, ensuring they cannot approach its bearer."

I felt the cool aura of the lamp and almost sensed the power contained within it.

"So, it's like a protective charm?" I asked.

"Exactly," Fei Zhang replied. "But it's more than just that. Quantum artifacts have unique properties—they can choose their own owners and have their own control over magical atoms. Only those truly recognized by the artifact can use it effectively. And if chosen, a quantum artifact can become a very powerful weapon, especially for hunting demons."

I gazed at the lotus lamp in awe. "How does the artifact choose its owner?"

Fei Zhang gave a small smile. "That remains a mystery. Legends say that quantum artifacts have a sort of consciousness and will only accept those deemed worthy. If you're recognized, the artifact will connect with your magical resonance and become an extension of yourself. But if not... the artifact will remain silent, no matter how hard you try to use it."

I felt a mix of curiosity and admiration for The Lotus Lamp. It wasn't just a tool; it was an entity with incredible power and will. "So, the artifact can reject its user?" I asked again.

Fei Zhang nodded. "Precisely. That's why so few people can actually use quantum artifacts. Most who find them can only store and protect them, without ever accessing the full power of the artifact."

He then placed the lotus lamp on the table between us, allowing me to examine it more closely. The soft glow of the lamp seemed even more soothing as I watched it, as if something within was inviting.

"Ellora," Fei Zhang continued, "I want you to understand the value of the knowledge and power present in this academy. Quantum artifacts like The Lotus Lamp are rare remnants of an ancient era. During your time at Lupusrica, you may encounter more mysteries like this."

I nodded slowly, realizing how much I had yet to learn. This academy wasn't just a place to study magic and combat techniques, but also a place where ancient history and forgotten powers still lived.

"I'll guide you as best as I can until you're appointed as the 9th Commander of Regalizen," Fei Zhang said with a more serious tone.

"But this journey will be full of challenges. Don't rely solely on your power as an Integrator. Use every opportunity to understand the world around you, including the secrets of quantum artifacts."

I took a deep breath, feeling both burdened and challenged. "I'll do my best, Professor Fei," I said with renewed determination. "I want to learn as much as I can."

Fei Zhang smiled, clearly pleased with my response. "That's the right attitude. We'll continue with our lessons, and I'll show you more about quantum artifacts in the future."

My first day at Lupusrica turned out to be far deeper than I had imagined. I felt as though I had just opened a door to a world filled with secrets and unexpected power. And I knew, this was only the beginning of my long journey.

***