Zhenki listened intently to Cristler's words, fully aware that the knowledge being offered could have disastrous consequences. Despite the temptation of power and understanding, he knew he had to carefully weigh the implications of his choices.
After a long conversation with Cristler, Zhenki withdrew from his inner world, contemplating all he had learned. He understood the importance of caution, ensuring that ambition did not cloud his judgment. Knowledge, after all, was a tool that should be wielded wisely for the greater good.
With renewed determination, Zhenki prepared himself for the challenges ahead. His journey toward power and comprehension would be long and perilous. Yet, with Nexus by his side and the support of his friends, he was ready to face whatever lay in his path.
As he prepared for rest after a demanding day, his mind drifted into dreams. In his vision, he found himself in a vast desert, parched with thirst. Seeking water, he stumbled upon a church. Outside, a priest stood holding a melon.
"Would you like a melon?" the priest inquired.
Zhenki hesitated, perplexed by the illogical nature of the scene. Then, with the sudden crash of thunder, he awakened. A knock at his door interrupted his thoughts, followed by a voice asking for the time. Yet, despite it being night, daylight still shone outside. The realization struck him, he was still dreaming.
Upon truly awakening, two books lay before him: a poetry collection and a dictionary. The poetry book bore a single phrase, "Is it real?" Meanwhile, the dictionary displayed only two words: "Yes" and "No." Startled, he woke up once more, affirming his existence through thought.
Following this intense experience, Zhenki readied himself for the day, a newfound sense of purpose guiding his actions. As he attended class, his mind strayed to Cristler's revelations, pondering their significance on his path to knowledge and power.
As time passed, an unusual sensation stirred within him, a shift deep inside. The change was subtle but undeniable.
After class, Zhenki returned to his dormitory, the feeling lingering as if something extraordinary was on the verge of unfolding. His friends noticed his unease immediately.
Giro: What's wrong, Zhenki? You seem distracted.
Zhenki: I'm not sure… It feels like something is happening inside me, something important.
Etras: Important? What do you mean?
Zhenki: I don't know exactly, but I sense that my connection to the quantum world is shifting.
Zein: Fascinating. Maybe you're on the verge of an advancement in summoning or discovering new principles that enhance synchronization.
Giro: That soon? Are you certain?
Zhenki: I can't say for sure, but I feel that something is about to happen.
As they spoke, a strange connection pulsed within his inner world. Energy surged from his core, manifesting in an ethereal sprout that radiated golden light. Nexus and Cristler observed in awe as the glow intensified, growing ever stronger.
Slowly, the sprout took form, revealing a magnificent tree with luminous leaves. It exuded an aura of wisdom and power beyond comprehension.
Zhenki: What… what is this?
A gentle yet commanding voice resonated through his mind.
Entity: I am the essence of your world. The embodiment of your thoughts, the guardian of secrets, and the fabric of your reality. Awakened by your connection to existence and your pursuit of knowledge, I am Lumintrald.
Overwhelmed, Zhenki realized this encounter marked the beginning of a new chapter in his journey. However, uncertain of how to explain the birth of a tree as the core of his being, he devised a simpler explanation: he had developed the ability to communicate more deeply with beings from another dimension.
As dawn broke, painting the sky in golden hues, Zhenki and his friends readied themselves for another day at the academy. The lively energy of the city buzzed around them as they walked towards class.
Giro: —Yawning— How about we skip class today and explore the city instead?
Zhenki: —Laughing—Sorry, Giro, but I don't think the director would approve.
Etras: —Excitedly— Besides, today's the lesson on mastering our abilities! I can't wait to learn more.
Zein: —Nodding—Yeah, I don't want to miss this one. Also, I've heard the instructor is quite the beauty. I'd love for her to teach me a few techniques.
Giro: —Grinning— I second that.
Their conversation was interrupted by a commotion in the town square. A crowd had gathered, watching as two students engaged in a heated argument that quickly escalated into a fight. Intrigued, the group moved closer, unable to look away as powers clashed in open combat.
Giro: —Amazed— Wow, this is the fight of the century!
Zhenki: —Concerned— We should stop this before someone gets hurt.
Etras: —Nodding—You're right. Let's break it up.
Before they could act, a professor arrived, his cloak billowing as he raised a hand. A shimmering barrier materialized, instantly separating the fighters.
Professor: —Sternly— Enough! I will not tolerate such disorder.
Recognizing his authority, the students dispersed, and peace was restored.
With the incident behind them, Zhenki and his friends resumed their journey to class, their thoughts lingering on their powerful instructor.
Later, on their way to the lesson on ability mastery, they encountered Aria, a student known for her icy beauty and noble lineage. She carried an air of elegance, her presence commanding attention.
Giro: —Awe-struck— Is Aria… a supernatural beauty?
Zhenki: —Impressed— It's remarkable that she can wield magic without incantations.
With aspirations of becoming the best versions of themselves, they continued toward the academy, excited for what lay ahead in the Age of the Quantions.
Etras: —Eagerly— I'm also looking forward to today's lesson on new technologies. Who knows what we might discover?
Zein: I agree. There's too much at stake to waste even a single day of training.
Giro: —Sighing— I guess you're right. But a little adventure wouldn't hurt.
Zhenki: —Smiling— Don't worry, Giro. There will be time for adventure. But for now, we need to focus on our lessons. We never know when we'll need these skills to protect ourselves and others.
As they arrived at their classroom, Professor Ledwig greeted them with his usual enthusiasm.
Professor Ledwig: Good morning, students. Today, we will explore the advanced principles of quantum manipulation one of the most essential skills for any summoner or quantum artificer.
Zhenki: —Whispering to Giro— Looks like today's going to be interesting.
Giro: (Grinning) "At least it won't be boring."
The professor began his lecture, explaining how quantum particles could be manipulated to create and control matter—an essential ability for both summoners and those who wield the technology of awakening. As the lesson progressed, Zhenki felt an ever-deepening connection to the very principles being taught, knowing that his journey had only just begun.