“Good Morning.” a marginally overweight man greeted him as he walked into the admissions buildings.

“Good morning, master Drilm. Master Gorzon said my classes have been changed?”

“Yes-yes, I’ve been expecting you. Got a notice from headmaster Nylen earlier this morning.” The round man replied.

He grabbed a paper from beside his desk and handed it to Kaidus.

“Here are your new classes. Although unprecedented considering your recent admittance and age, it is the choice of the headmaster.”

Reading the paper, he saw:
-Advance Spell Fusion
-Advance Group combat
-Council

“I don’t get to choose my classes?” he asked, remembering when he first enrolled.

“The headmaster did not say. All he did, was sent me a notice with your situation and to put you in these.”

“Situation?” Kaidus inquired.

“Something about passing his test.” The round man grinned.

‘…’ The fat man knew. “What is Council?” He asked.

“Oh right. Here.” Master Drilm handed him another document.

…

“What is this?” Kaidus asked after reading the document.

“A letter of introduction.” The master replied with a widespread grin.

“I can see that. Why does it say ‘… appoints Kaidus Paltos, the 7^th member of Zorin Academy’s Council of Magi.’?”

“Well, you my boy, have been selected to take one of the four remaining seats of the council.” A swift reply. The widespread grin still on the master’s face.

“And this council is…?”

“Right-right, you wouldn’t know yet. The council, is a group of ten students within the academy that handles affairs between the three schools.” Master Drilm quickly answered.

“I thought the masters handled academy affairs?” Kaidus asked, confused about the position.

“We do, but the Council handles the affairs pertaining to student conflicts. Rivalries between the three schools, you could say.” Another swift answer as if trying to skirt around the real question that has yet to be asked.

‘There’s something going on.’ Kaidus thought to himself. “Is being a part of the council mandatory? May I be exempt?” he queried, hoping to get out of it.

“Once chosen, as a student, you must comply. There are no other options.”  The same wide grin again.

 “Well… where is the council building located?” he asked before he took his leave.
“Third practical building from the Southeast. Last room on the right from the entrance. Show your letter to Philnor when you get there. He is this term’s current head of the council.”

“That old man!” Kaidus cried out after leaving the admissions building. There was a tinge of regret at the decision he had made the previous night.

He thought about paying the headmaster another visit, but thinking about it, he could see the endless excuses that would come out. There was no other choice, but to go with the flow for now.

 

—

 

On the northern academy grounds, an old man sat staring out the window of his room, laughing to himself.

He had neglected to tell the young boy that was with him a while ago something crucial. It was just about the time that the child learned about it.

A childish grin appeared on his face as he brought up his left arm into view.

Recalling the unknown magic the prodigious child had used, he could do nothing but marvel at it.

If his hand had merely been severed, he would have been able to help mend it with magic, but since the arm had vanished completely. There was nothing he could do.

‘Maybe I should make it marble…’ He pondered at the clay arm.

With his mind, he willed his left hand to stroke the unkempt beard hanging on his chin.

‘Surprisingly effective.’ He admired, as he transformed the fingers into a comb and slowly combed the beard.

“This is quite convenient.” He spoke out loud, then laughed.

 

—

 

Kaidus arrived at Advanced Spell Fusion class long after it had already started.

Being an advanced class, there were twelve people in it. The majority of the students in the class were in their early twenties, with three other students possibly under twenty.

All looked at him curiously.

The aggression and contempt of his previous classes were replaced by looks of curiosity and bewilderment in this class.

“Please take a seat.” The master told him as he entered the room.

Kaidus took one at the front.

Spell Fusion: the combination of different spells to create a stronger one of a higher order, or a different magic altogether.

His orb of light from last night was one such spell. It comprises of two different light magics.

The first was the orb of light. By itself, a normal small light orb with a glow. With an intense infusion of explosive light magic into the orb, the brightness is amplified, resulting in the makeshift sun.

It was a complex skill requiring perfect control and mana distribution to sustain the orb and maintain its shape and output of light.

But being made purely made of light, the spell had been primarily a support skill, and did not have any offensive properties.

As such, an offense spell by itself is damaging, but combining two or more compatible spells via spell fusion, the attack power is multiplied exponentially, or their properties change.

The master was currently explaining about different combinations of spells and their resulting phenomenon.

…

As soon as class was over, he left the room and made his way towards the library. He may have given up searching the previous night, but today was a new day. Along with it, new hopes.

Spying the warden of the Library, “Master Juvol.” Kaidus called out.

“Hello Kaidus.” An older woman around her fifties responded.

“I’m interested in information about large and old drakalls. Would you know any books relating to the subject?” he asked.

Master Juvol was the head librarian and also the teacher for intermediate incantations. He had met her a couple days ago before the ryes, and had wanted to ask her about this specific topic ever since returning to the academy. Unfortunately she had not been in the library last evening.

“Karugas?” she guessed his subject of interest.

“Does master know about Karugas?” Kaidus asked, his eyes widening.

“Sorry. I’ve only heard stories.” She apologized, seeing his face light up. “I believe drakalls are on the first floor by the back wall, shelves 6 through 12.”

“I’ve already looked through those.” He replied.

“Hmmm… there is also shelves 32 to 35 along with 41 and 42 on the third floor. That is where the majority of books entailing organic studies are located.” She added after thinking.

“Also, check shelves 76 through 98 on the fourth floor.  Witness reports and matters with insubstantial evidences within the past fifty years are filed there. I must warn you though, those shelves are all just collections of short stories and rumors. ” She added.

“Thank you.” Kaidus gave her a quick bow of gratitude before he left to pursue his purpose.

Master Juvol watched as the child headed for the fourth floor stairs. She had not been aware of it until the headmaster’s notice earlier that morning, but the quiet child whom she had just met a couple of days ago was one walking towards the summit of magic.
‘A child is still a child.’ She smiled at the boy and his fascination with drakalls.

 

—

 

Kaidus elected for rumors and stories instead of going after the published studies.

Starting from shelf 76, he was reading through scrolls and bound books of stories that recounted eye witness events.

His goal is trying to pinpoint specific or general location of sightings. Records of Any abnormal drakall year after year or generation after generation.

“Zanaeos 1207: Palx-16. Malpaars.
Delirious man in the village of Caleor claims … covered in thick fur, devouring an Orshun in front of him as he broke through the thicket. Stared straight at him then took off with the deer in its jaws …”

“Zanaeos 1189: Soqu-11. Kulis.
Villagers of Thernus claim to have seen Duzons, or spectral entities, wandering the forests nearby … Lord Fraeton send a team of knights to investigate … nothing conclusive.”

He was not having much luck this time either. As master Juvol had stated earlier, the shelves were littered with short stories about random events. There were thousands upon thousands of records to look through.

The few notes he went through were mostly just superstitious villagers thinking they saw one thing or another.

The only thing that had made the search feasible, was that all of the records had been titled appropriately with the year, date, and place of origin.

“Zanaeos 1189: Soqu-11. Kulis”

Zanaeos 1189 is the year, Soqu-11 is the turn and day, and Kulis—the name of the continent.

The current era consists of 10 turns per year, each turn comprising of around thirty to forty days.
Hiso and Guso the first two turns making up Grunei.
Soqu, Tarsi, and Lokil makes up Alivai.
With Deju, Linh, and Kinu as Fulta.
Lastly Zali and Palx for Rinol.

There are still seven continents, and still surrounds the endless abyss that has always been known as “The Maws of Lovis”.

Darsus—his currently continent of residence—to the east of the maws.
Kulis to the southeast.
Rovtoss to the northeast.
Malpaars to the north.
Horuns to the southwest.
Lagolls to the south.
And the largest continent of Unotus wrapping the west and northwest.

Though the names have slightly changed, he can still recall their ancient names perfectly.

‘Horuns…’ He had reiterated the new name for Honos in his mind endlessly when he first learned of it years ago.

It was there where his beloved Andarg had been. The legacy of his fallen house. The beginning of everything.

After skimming through a few hundred witness accounts to no avail, the afternoon bell sounded. He was out of time; his second class would start soon.

 

—

 

Advance Group combat was exactly as the name implied. The class is taking place at one of the larger practical training grounds. A flat dirt field, better for demonstrations than magical combat. The class itself had plenty of students, and looked to be a mixture of highly capable advance and intermediate course students.

A group of three students were facing off against another group of three, while the rest of the class watched.

The Master had already erected a wall of stone around the arena, and the students were pitting all they had against each other.

As an advance class, there was nothing to protect the combatants from harm besides themselves and the single rule: No Lethal Magic. Burning, cuts, shocks, and magic inflicted wound were perfectly fine as long as they were not life threatening.

The master himself was ready to intercept at any time, but accidents were prone to happen.

Those who do get hurt are swiftly carried off to the healing room for treatment—the backside of the admissions building.

The point of the class was for young mages to get a feel for actual combat. To learn how to adapt and cope when in a battle against other mages. Harming a student was fine, but killing was grounds for immediate expulsion and a trial. Depending on the lethality of the crime, such actions could result in the offending party forfeiting their lives.

As the mock battle went on, a female student quickly shot a spell—in the form of a tiny bird—at one of her distracted opponents. He instantly went down when the bird hit, and was taken out of the match.

The strategy was a clever use of spell amplification according to elements, and divide and conquer tactics.

Ignoring the other two opponents, her teammates had doused their target with water while evading attacks. Finding an opening amidst barrages of spells, the female student had skillfully rendered their target unconscious with a single lightning spell concealed as a light bird. They then turned against the two leftover, and easily overwhelmed them.

After the battle, the master went over the flaws and choices of the combatants, evaluating each participant and giving out pointers about how such situations may be avoided or guarded against.  

Kaidus opted to sit out and watch as more teams jump in to test themselves.

 

—

 

Having skipped lunch, he headed to the student ran shops for an early dinner. Someone he did not want to see appeared before him.

“Kaidus!” Prim yelled out to him.

‘Can’t I just be left in peace?’ He thought to himself. “What is it?”

“I’ve been looking all over for you! What did you do to my friends?!” she barked, angrily.

‘Did something happen?’ He pondered. “I’ve done nothing.” He replied.

“Nothing?! They’re not even coming out for classes now! They won’t even talk to me! You must have done something!”

She was quite angry, and people were starting to stare.

Irritated by her accusatory tone as if she had no part in it, “And whose fault is that?” he whispered, loud enough so that only Prim could hear it.

“You-” Prim started, but the glare in his eyes stopped her. The boy was now very different from his usual self.

“I know your kind all too well. I’ve dealt with many of them before. Prideful creatures, entertaining themselves at the price of those less fortunate. Lashing out at any who would dare to overshadow them.” He whispered while staring straight through her.

Prim could not speak, frozen by the gaze and the sudden change in the boy.

“Did you think I would not expect a retaliation? Don’t underestimate me, ‘Prim’.” He emphasized her name, letting her know he would not back down. “If there is nothing else, then excuse me.” He said before turning to walk away.

“I’m so…y…” She finally muttered, as he walked off.

“What?” He asked, unsure about what she had said.

“I’M SORRY! ALRIGHT?!” Prim screamed out in agony, falling to her knees.

“What are you doing?” He immediately replied, surprised at the prideful princess on her knees.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry! I’m sorry! … I’m sorry I tried to humiliate you! I’m sorry I tried to get back at you! Please! I don’t care anymore! Just give me my friends back! PLEASE!” Prim cried out. Overcome with emotions, tears were flowing out of her beautiful emerald eyes.

He could see she had been in pain the last couple of days.

Her emotions hit him.

‘Incredible.’ He thought to himself.
The girl before him was now glowing brightly and beautifully. Her words were truly sincere as she pleaded, and he had never expected someone like her to bow down and beg.

His disgusted feelings after the unfortunate event assaulted him as he stood there looking at Prim kneeling on the ground and begging. It was time to exorcise this demon once in for all.

“Stand up. I may have taken my words a little too far with your friends. Please bring me to them so that I may rectify my actions.” *grrwrorr* his stomach grumbled, reminding him of his true objective. “My apologies. How about a snack first?”

 

—

 

Arriving at the girl’s boarding house, Prim had regained her composure and was able to sneak him inside.

Standing in front of Lisin’s room, “Lisin, can I come in?” Prim asked after knocking on the door.

“I told you already, leave me alone…” A defeated tone answered from inside.

“Lisin. Please, open the door and let me come in. I’ll leave you alone for as long as you want afterwards. Just this one last time, please?” Prim begged.

The door slowly unlocked.

*Creak~* the door opened a tiny slit. A pair of eyes peered around before opening wider.

“What do you want, Prim?” a red eyed girl spoke.

“Can I please come in?” Prim asked.

“No. I don’t want to talk about it. I told you already.” Lisin refused.

“It’s not about that. I promise.”

Lisin stepped back and the door opened wider. Prim stepped in. Hiding behind her, Kaidus also stepped in.

“PRIM! Y-y-you!” Lisin started crying out.

“Please stop, I asked her to bring me.” Kaidus spoke gently, and the girl quickly held her mouth with her hands, trying as hard as she could to not anger him. “I am not here to hurt you or anything. You understand?” He asked, his voice soft and low. Lisin nodded her head while still holding her mouth. Kaidus cordially bent forward into a deep apologetic bow.

“I apologize. In my rage, I had done something truly horrible to you both. I did not realize that my words and actions at the time would devastate you so. Know that it has also weighed on my mind heavily, and I regret every moment of it.” He lifted his head. “I know that we may never be friends, but I hope that we can put this behind us and learn from it.”

Lisin stared back at him in shock.

“Again, I’m sorry about what happened.” He apologized one last time before he opened to door to leave the room.

“Please come to class later Lisin, I miss you.” Prim added as she followed Kaidus out.

 

—

 

The seemingly minor incident had been eating at him ever since that night. Going back home and seeing his family had helped mend the scars, but getting pulled into the headmaster’s little farce had just as quickly reopened it.

Having apologized to both Jorva and Lisin, Kaidus made his way to the “Council”.

 

As the grounds of the Academy were illuminated, “Very impressive! But the light will not help you.” a voice taunted from all sides.

His dreadful instincts automatically honed in on the true origin of the voice, and within a split second, blasts of lightning rained down upon where the voice had been.

He turned to look, but there was nothing there.

The ground underneath him twisted, softening as if to swallow him under.

With a single thought, the ground solidified once again.

“Instantaneous cast speed and voiceless incantation! Truly marvelous!” Another bout of laughter.

A jet of water suddenly assaulted him from his left side, forcing him to defend himself with a mana shield. As the water hit the shield, a spire of flames instantly shot toward him from his right side. Kaidus extended his right arm out and a wall of earth erupted upward to block the flames. ‘There are multiple attackers!’ He finally realized.

As soon as the realization hit him, a large fireball came straight at him from the front.

He was about to move back some more, but a large amount of mana could be felt manifesting behind him.

Surrounded, he closed his eyes.

By his will, there was a blinding flash of light and everything in his immediate vicinity disappeared.

 

—

 

The old man had been in his office. His eagerness to meet the young boy who had exerted such bloodlust and magic the day before, was overflowing.

Yet, as the ryes came, and he finally stepped out of his room, he was disappointed to find that the child had left the academy grounds early that morning.

Three days later and near bursting with anticipation, one of his assistants brought him the news that he had been looking forward to.

“The child has returned, headmaster.”

“Where is he?!” Nylen had excited asked when the news came. Having made him wait, he was itching to test the child.

Yet another frustration. The child had gone straight to the library.

As he was thinking of how to lure the child out, another idea came to mind.

“Go get Hamin, Zaele, and Niron. There’s something I want them to do.” He grinned at his idea.

Hours later, and waiting on top of the admission building, they spotted the child coming out of the library.

As per the plan, the three masters: Hamin, Zaele, and Niron, would conceal themselves and wait until his orders to attack. While he would get up close to contest, and assess the child’s abilities.

Sensing the three masters in position, headmaster Nylen drew on the earth, allowing it to envelope him and absorb him into the ground.

Using his pride earth magic, he wove his way underground into the path of the child and waited.

With voiceless incantation, he began invoking a spell as the boy approached.

Sensing the boy’s position via the earth, he fused the ground, molding it into a spike and shot it out towards the child.

Living up to his expectations, the boy had instantly propelled himself backwards as soon as he noticed the attack.

‘Voiceless incantation, and instant cast… very impressive!’ Nylen thought to himself.

He had not felt a single ounce of concentrated mana until that split second before the child’s position shifted.

Sensing where the child had landed, headmaster Nylen quick invoked an immobilization spell in the form of a hand to capture the child. But the child proved elusive, and evaded the hand.

Everything had been what he had expected so far.

Yet that did not satisfy him. He wanted the child angry, he wanted to feel the magic and bloodlust that he had felt the other day.

With pinpoint shockwaves, he shook the trees around the grounds, relieving them of some of their leaves. With wind magic, he blew the leaves over the where the child was standing, and infused mana into them.

Trapping the child in a storm of leaves, he invoked an earth immobilization spell, and rooted the child in place.

Suddenly, his immobilization spell disintegrated, and half of his mana infused in the leaves vanished. Surprised, he quickly moved himself a distance behind the child, and came out of the ground to see for himself.

Tucking his head out of the ground, he saw daylight—even thought it was bordering on bedtime. He quickly noticed a glowing orb revealing everything around the north-west section of the academy.

“Very Impressive! But the light will not help you.” He threw around his voice to agitate and confuse the boy.

Suddenly he felt a frightening amount of mana. He quickly ducked underground and escaped as the storm of mana obliterated the area where he had been.

His old heart pounded with excitement. ‘The boy has started to get serious!’ he excitedly thought to himself.

Moving under the boy, he attempted another immobilization spell, but as soon as he invoked the spell, it was canceled.

Backing off a bit, he threw out his voice again, complementing the child’s prowess.

With discreet shockwaves to his three associates, he sensed as they each sent an attack of their own towards their target.
A water jet from Zaele, a cone of flames from Nion, and a fireball from Hamin.

As Hamin unleashed his fireball, headmaster Nylen quickly moved behind the child to block the boy’s only avenue of escape.

Thinking the child would jump back to evade the incoming fireball, he moved in and invoked an advance capture spell. Yet, the child never moved.

Instead, a torrent of mana could be felt expelling from the child’s position.

Headmaster Nylen turned and ran for his life.

 

—

 

“MASTER NYLEN!!”
“HEADMASTER!”

He heard shouting.

‘Those must be Zaele and Niron…’ Nylen thought to himself, half conscious.

*cough* *cough* He was no longer underground, but lying face up towards the brightly lit sky. Tilting his head, his location struck him. He was in a crater.

Looking to the epicenter, Headmaster Nylen spotted the boy glaring at him.

Eyes filled with animosity and rage, they were glowing almost as brightly as the now silver hair on the boys head.

A cold terror instantly shot through his body. ‘This is very bad.’ He thought as he tried to push himself up off the ground.

Except, he could not. Bringing his hands up to his face, he could not feel his left arm. His right hand too, was missing the tips of all his fingers except for the thumb. Turning to his left, his whole left arm had vanished beyond his elbow, leaving only a bleeding stump.

The pain quickly struck him. *COUGH* *COUGH* “Ha… Ha… Hahahaha….” He laughed. He had gotten what he wanted, and it had come with a price. A price he painfully paid for with blood.

With a quick chant, he seared his bloody stump to stop the bleeding.

Looking at the boy moving toward him, he tried to remember what had occurred in that instant.

He had not expected such a devastating magic.

Unable to outrun the flood of mana that was consuming everything, he had tried to stand his ground.

Stretching out his left arm to focus his mana into a shield, he stabilized the flow with his right. The intensity of the boy’s magic ate through his shield and left arm instantly, before throwing him against the side of the crater that the magic had dug out.

“*Cough* Ha… *cough cough* Heheh… Getting too careless, Nylen… *cough*” he scolded himself. If he had not been so arrogant and did not close in on the child to trap him, it would have been easy to escape the radius of the magic. “*Cough* Marvelous… way beyond expectations…” he spoke as death approached.

“YOU!” The boy shouted at him angrily, while edging closer.

Three figures jumped in between them.

 

—

 

“Please, little one. That is enough.” Master Hamin spoke. Respect and awe in his voice, with a touch of fear.

Before Kaidus, stood three of the academy’s masters. ‘The perpetrators!’ His mind shouted furiously. “All of you!” He screamed out.

“Allow me to apologize for this selfish incident.” Hamin spoke sincerely as all three of the masters lowered their heads.

“You were all after my life!”

“Please- *Cough* do not blame them- *cough* …it was my idea.” The old man spoke up from behind the three.

Kaidus glared at the culprit.

“*Cough* Hahahaha… *hack, hack*… I apologize. I had only wanted to measure your- *COUGH*…strength, but it seems these old bones cannot keep up.” The old man spoke, a pained grin on his face.

“You endanger my life, all to test me?!” Kaidus bellowed.

“I had- *COUGH COUGH* …to be sure.” The old man replied, his eyes resolute and earnest.

-people slaughtered for enjoyment.
-families ripped apart.
-death at the whims of the foolish.
-his brother…

The memories came roaring back.

“All of you, for your own self-interest!” A force of mana exploded in his right hand, forming into a flaming sword. “I SHOULD CUT YOU DOWN WHERE YOU STAND!”

The three masters edged forward, ready to protect the old man with their lives. Courage and resolve in their eyes.

“STOP!”

The old man shouted, his eyes watching Kaidus.

“*COUGH* my life is- *Cough* yours… the laws of combat dee- *HACK HACK* …deems the loser, at the mercy of the victor- *COUGH*. You may do as you will, young Dvitus.”

The three master’s faces distorted upon hearing what they had all assumed. Terror and reverence filled their eyes, as they looked at the child.

‘Dvitus’ an unknown word to him. Within his mind his anger cried out for release, but he could see that the old man’s words were genuine and held no ulterior motive. The old man was truly ready to forfeit his life. “GGGRRRAAAHHHHH!!” He screamed out in rage, flinging his sword into the side of the crater.
The fiery weapon sunk up to its hilt before vanishing.

“““!!””” the three masters recoiled in surprise at the action.

Sensing Kaidus’s murderous concentration of mana vanishing, “Thank you- *COUGH* young one… and welcome to Zorin Academy.” The old man spoke.

“Headmaster, let us move away from here before more students show up.” One of the masters suggested.

His anger subsiding, Kaidus finally noticed.

There were a small number of students gawking from the perimeter of the hole he had created. His hair still streaked its true color of silver, and the orb in the sky had illuminated the whole spectacle.

With a single thought, night returned.

“Do not TEST my patience. NEVER do that again.” He warned.

“I would not- *COUGH* …dare, in my state.” The old man replied. A jubilant tone in his voice.

Kaidus marched out of the crater and made his way back to his room. Too irritated to care about the fearful stares of the witnesses as he passed by them.

 

—

 

The previous night’s fiasco still fresh on his mind, an older student caught him on his way to arkane studies.

“Kaidus?” The student called out to him.

“Yes?” He replied, trying not to let his irritation show.

“I was told to bring you to the headmaster’s office. Can you please follow me?” the older student answered.

 “Please lead the way.” A reluctant answer. He did not know how he felt about this, considering what just happened last night.

‘I can’t believe this…’ He thought to himself.

He was handed off to one of the headmaster’s assistant when they reached a large and intricate building in the northern academy grounds.

The building looked much like the other master’s building, but upon reaching it, he realized it to be constructed of black marble. There were intricate designs made of white sandstone fused into the marble.

“He is here, Headmaster.” The assistant called as they reached the master’s room.

“Let him in.” the old man answered from inside.

Stepping into the room, Kaidus spotted the headmaster sitting in a chair by the window. Sensing a permeation of mana, he noticed the headmaster’s clay left arm.

The old man grinned a wide grin at him. “Sorry about last night.”

“…” Kaidus remained silent, trying to pick out what was going on.

“Thank you for coming. I realize I may have taken it a little too far, but as I said last night. I had to make sure.” The headmaster spoke, in a conciliatory tone.

“There are better ways. Someone could have DIED.” He replied, annoyed at the old man’s overly familiar tone.

“Someone, but not you.” The headmaster corrected him.

“You do not know that.” he barked back.

“I did not rise to my position with just my magic alone, child. It is my acute senses that have brought me this far.” The headmaster replied, his grin exchanged for a serious appearance. “I’ve known since feeling your magic and thirst for blood a couple days ago. I just did not know to what extent.” Headmaster Nylen added, bringing up the clay arm to display his folly.

“…” It was really just a test, and his outburst before the ryes had been the source for the ambush.

Seeing Kaidus standing there silently,

“Although very late, allow me to introduce myself. I am the headmaster of Zorin academy, and Malizur of Ferrent. People who know me call me the Subterranean Drakall. Third of my name, and last of my Line, I am, Nylen Gvius Das Jozion. Kaidus Paltos, I welcome you to Zorin Academy.” The headmaster spoke officially and extended his clay arm out while grinning from ear to ear.

Uncertain if the extended gesture had been to spite him, he did not take the hand.
“If that is all, I must be heading back. Class has probably already started.” Kaidus replied, having known the old man’s identity already.

As he turned to leave,
“I do not know what my academy can offer one such as yourself, but as mages, we have only ever dreamed of one thing: to ascend, and attain the legendary strength of the Dvitus. Gods among men. Only ever mentioned in myths.” The headmaster continued.

“I care not for your aspirations, or that of your ‘Dvitus’.” He swiftly replied, stopping to look at the old man.

“That is where you are wrong. For one so young, you have already proven yourself beyond a Malizur. I know naught about your circumstances, but with time, I believe you will undoubtedly achieve the pinnacle of magic. Allow this old man to witness the birth of your legend.” Headmaster Nylen lowered his head in respect, as Kaidus walked out of the room.

 

—

 

Having left the headmaster’s room, he headed to his Intermediate Arkane studies.

“What are you doing?” Master Gorzon asked him as he entered the lecture room.

He could feel all eyes looking at him. “Sorry I’m late. I had a meeting with someone.” Kaidus answered.

“What are you doing here?” Master Gorzon clarified.

“Is this not my arkane studies class?” He asked, confused.

“Someone was sent to tell you before class started. Your courses have been changed. Go to the admissions building and reselect your classes.” Master Gorzon elaborated.

“Understood.” He complied, promptly gathering himself and departing.
‘That damned headmaster.’ He thought to himself as he made his way to admissions.

 

 

Deep in thought, Kaidus rode the carriage back home by himself.

Lord Varath’s full name was Alzin Shuziel Varath, and the house had been of minor nobility. Around 20years ago, when the lord’s father grew ill and could not continue the duties as head of the house, the young Alzin took over. He quickly outpaced his rivals using strategic maneuvers, bringing in wealth and influence to his house. He was in his early twenties when he married the lady Reanne—then Reanne Gilin Lazfor. With her help, the Varath house had truly flourished.

The lord had three children: Larant the eldest son and first born, Jillian the oldest daughter, and finally Sylvia the youngest daughter.

Thinking about the events that had unfolded earlier, Kaidus chuckled to himself.

The book Kargalls: Lords of the skies, sat unopened beside him.

 

—

 

“Wha-..?” the shock had left him speechless.

“Lord Varath, I believe-” Troyle spoke up, but got stopped mid-sentence.

“Come now Troyle. Are you saying my daughter is not good enough for your son?” Lord Varath inquired sheepishly, trying to throw the discussion in a different course.

“My Lord, we’ve talked about this already. You said yourself not moments ago that you would not bring this up. He is just a child.” Troyle answered.

“Yes, but what an extraordinary child at that.” Lord Varath countered with a grin. “If I don’t take the initiative now, who knows how many others will be throwing their daughters at him once they find out? One should never underestimate the information network of the nobles.”

“You mean the rumor mongers among the nobles, dear.” Reanne amended his reasoning.

“Rumors are a form of information, my dear. And yes, I do mean you. One should never underestimate you.” Lord Varath replied back to his wife. A grin on his face.

“No, you shouldn’t, especially you.” She swiftly shot back at him playfully.

“Are you alright with this, Lady Reanne?” Seeing the immovable wall that is Lord Varath, Troyle turned to question the wife.

“Of course. We’ve talked about it three nights ago. It was my idea after all.” She smiled villainously back at him.

“You two…” At a loss for words, Troyle dumbly stared at the two. He had played right into their hands.

“Oh Troyle, don’t be so hesitant. We’ve known each other for three years now, and you’ve saved my husband’s life more than I can count. We’re practically family already. Why not make it official?”

“Protecting the lord is my job, Lady Reanne.” He replied.

“Then we are not paying you enough. How about a daughter-in-law for all your hard work?” Reanne coyly answered.

Looking at Kaidus standing there silently, “We… are not nobles…” Troyle tried to use the commoner card.

“Don’t be ridiculous. You don’t think he’ll be able to elevate himself and your name?” Reanne easily saw through him. “I’m also certain that all the nobles are scrambling for the identity of the commoner who had been admitted into Zorin.” she added, instantly shooting down his argument. “We… are just getting an early head start, that’s all.” Her wicked smile returned, fully showing that she was not even trying to hide her objectives.

“Ah, you should have seen it Reanne! What an amazing gift!” Lord Varath interjected.

… Kaidus stood there speechless. They were talking as if he wasn’t even there.

“…” Troyle too, was truly at a loss for words at the shameless display before him.

Lord Varath turned to Kaidus. “What do you say Kaidus? She’s very cute, isn’t she? She’s got both my charm and my beauty. She’ll definitely grow to be more beautiful than her mother.” Lord Varath spoke with a grin on his face. “OWW!! OUCH! STOP! STOP!”

“Whose charms and beauty?” Reanna asked, having elbowed her husband.

“Yours! Of course yours! My beautiful and very lovely Reanne!!” Lord Varath hastily answered. “…hopefully, she doesn’t have your temper as well…” He muttered under his breath.

“What was that?” Reanne threatened.

“Nothing. I said, I hope Kaidus pampers her as well!” The lord quickly answered while feeling where she had elbowed him. “I think you may have broken my ribs.” He painfully accused.

“Oh? How unfortunate.” Lady Reanne replied with her wicked grin.

“Ugh…” Giving up on the back and forth with his wife, Lord Varath turned back to look at Kaidus. “Well? How about it? Why don’t you marry my daughter?” He asked once again with a smile.

“I thank you for the opportunity, but I must graciously refuse.” Kaidus answered with an apologetic bow, having calmed down after witnessing the couple’s loving banters.

“Is my Sylvia not to your liking? Should I get her elder sister? She’s a few years older than you, but…” Lord Varath asked, the smile still prevailing on his face.

“That is not the case. Sylvia is very cute.” Kaidus replied.

Sylvia’s eyes lit up for a second and she clutched her mother’s dress even tighter.

“I am very grateful for your high evaluation and praises, but please do not be offended by my decision. As I am, I cannot accept your generous offer.” Kaidus said as he gave the lord a bow of respect.

‘Calm and collected… unyielding, yet humble… undeterred by the temptations of lesser men… hmm…’ The lord silently reevaluated Kaidus in his mind. “You know what? How about… what if I just give her to you?” The lord spoke. “She can live with your parents, and when you two are old enough, you can be wed. That way, you both can grow up to understand each other better.” Lord Varath suggested with a grin.

“DADDY! NO!” The silent girl finally yelled out.

“What? You don’t like him?” Lord Varath replied to his daughter.

Sylvia looked at Kaidus. “I… I don’t know!” An embarrassed reply, the little girl quickly went back to hiding behind her mother’s dress.

“It doesn’t look like she’s against it.” Lord Varath’s grin widened.

“Mother…” the little girl feebly muttered from behind her mother.

“I’m sorry, but I will still have to refuse.” Kaidus apologized.

Looking in Kaidus’s eyes, the lord relented.

“Hmm… It seems you have thought this through. I understand, I will not push you any further.” Lord Varath answered.

“Thank you.”

“Just so you know, we’re not giving up yet. Once she grows up into a beautiful lady, we’ll be sending her after you, so be prepared.” Lord Varath quickly added with a wry smile on his face.

“…Understood…” Kaidus could only reply in acknowledgement, unable to worm himself out of the tactless situation.

“Well then, with that over with. Nice to finally meet you Kaidus. Please take good care of my daughter.” The Lord said, as he took hold of Kaidus’s hands for a handshake.

‘… He… he just told me to please take good care of his daughter…’ He had caught the tail end of it.

“How about sticking around and enjoying my manor? Maybe get to know my Sylvia a little better?” the Lord suggested coquettishly.

 “Thank you for the offer, but I cannot stay. The point of today was to meet you and give you my greetings. It was due time I saw for myself, the man whom my father holds in such high regard.” Kaidus politely replied.

“No, thank you. At least allow me to ready a carriage for you.” The lord replied. Surprisingly, he had gone back to being respectable.

“You have my gratitude. It was a pleasure to finally meet you Lord Varath. Please take care of my father.” Kaidus made a bow.

“And you Lady Reanne, Lady Sylvia.” Another bow to Sylvia and Reanne, before he turned to walk out of the study.

“I will see my son out.” Troyle said as Kaidus made his way out the door.

 

—

 

“What do you think?” Lord Varath asked his wife.

“I certainly would not believe he is Troyle’s son if I hadn’t known.” The wife replied.

“Yes… the child holds himself quite well.”

“It is exactly as Troyle says. He is quite the peculiar one. Truly mature for one so young.” Reanne added.

Lord Varath edged closer to his daughter. “You think you can catch him?” He joked.

“…” Sylvia clutched her mother tighter.

“Not like that she won’t.” Reanne interjected as her husband burst into laughter again.

“It’s okay, she’s got you to teach her.” He smiled as he drew his wife in for an embrace and a kiss.

 

—

 

Although he had claimed he could not stay at the Varath manor, the second day at home went like every other day. Spending time with his mother and sister, helping with shopping, finding time to read while Anise was asleep, and listening and conversing with Troyle at dinner about various events going on in Ferrent.

They left out the issue about Lord Varath’s proposition during their dinner talk.

The 3^rd day came, and it was time to go back to the Academy.

The carriage had arrived sometime in the afternoon after lunch, and he was saying goodbye to his mother and sister before the departure.

“WAAAA!! WAAA!! No! Gai! No! SHTAY!” Anise was crying in Adalina’s arms, knowing that the last time something like this happened, he had disappeared.

“Anise, Kaidus needs to go now. Please be a good girl.” Adalina tried to console her.

“NO! NO! GAI SHTAY!” She screamed louder.

Kaidus walked up to his sister.

“Anise please don’t cry.” He gently stroked her head.

“NO! WAAAAA! PLEESH DONT GO!!!” She cried, grabbing hold onto his outstretched arm.

“I have to go now, but I’ll be back before you know it.” He reassured her.

“NO!” she yelled, not letting go of his hand.

“I promise.” He said tenderly.

After a moment, her crying slowly diminished.

“*HIC* *hic* p-pwomish? *hic*” she asked in between her sobs.

“I promise. You be a good girl and stay with mom alright?” He gently patted her head as she released his hand.

“*hic* kay… *hic*” she managed a reply.

Having said his goodbyes to Troyle this morning, he gave his mother and sister one last hug before grabbing the small sack that Adalina had packed him, and boarded the carriage bound for the Academy.

 

—

 

In the sack was a new set of clothes Adalina had purchased the day before, the book Kargalls: Lords of the skies, and a lunch she had prepared separately for him. 

He had also reluctantly accepted another green fer from Troyle, talking it down from three.

Kaidus took the book out of the small sack and begun reading.

“…secretive and dangerous, the Kargalls live in solitude. Each taking up residence in their own place of choosing, devastating everything around it. For reasons unknown, these mighty drakalls return every twelve years to Arauns Claws, specifically the Imperial Talon, to breed before dispersing into all corners of Lovis again…

… The Kargalls compete and kill each other for mates. Lesser males are quick to retreat out of the Imperial Talon, while the strongest males compete for the best territories. These alphas, having obtain the best territories and hunting grounds, could form harems of up to 10 females in a single breeding season… devastating and killing everything around for food, including other Kargalls…

…Lesser drakalls steer clear of Arauns Caws during this breeding season, and those unlucky enough to not flee the mountains, end up as food for these mighty creatures…

…are thought to be extremely long lived, increasing in intelligence as they age…

… during the beginning of the breeding season… records of smaller Kargalls teaming up to kill larger and stronger alphas before competing against themselves…

…While it is the younger and more virile Kargalls who come back year after year to contest for the chance of mating, there are rumors and stories of Elder Kargalls, known as Karugas. These Elders are rumored to be so great and powerful, that they can sustain themselves on magic alone…

…Natives of Unotus speaks of majestic beasts being sighted inhabiting lakes, mountains, large rivers, and large crevices in the earth, among various other places. One man spoke of his ancestor’s tales about a beast with wings so large, it filled a cave. Another spoke of witnessing a monster rising from the oceans, then flying off into the south. These people believe that the monsters can live forever, claiming to have spotted the same creatures’ generation after generations. Various sighting have also been confirmed of these Karugas in…

“Hasen.” He called to the entity in the ring.

“Yes… master…” the raspy voice echoed back in his mind.

“Do you have any knowledge of these Elder Kargalls, Karugas?” he asked.

“I… don’t know…” It replied back.

The phrases “extremely long lived… intelligence… live forever” caught him. He had merely bought the book out of self-interest, and had not expect to find anything meaningful. Yet, if these claims were not merely exaggerations, but possible facts, then these Karugas could hold some answers.

Hasen had not known, but legends and stories are there for a reason.

He made a mental note as he continued reading.

 

—

 

Having arrived back at the academy around dinner time, he returned to his room to stow away what he had brought and eat the meal Adalina had packed him, before heading to the library.

He needed more information about these Karugas.

Perusing the different isles of the first floor, many books about drakalls caught his attention, but none had any mentions about Karugas, elder Kargalls, or anything along the lines of ancient drakalls.

Disappointed, he gave up and left the library.

Following the walk path back to his room, the light posts around the campus were already infused with mana, giving off a dim light. Many other students were also making their way back to their rooms before it became completely dark.

“Master…” Hasen warned.

“Stay hidden there are too many people right now.” he quickly replied.

As he took another step, surge of mana rose from underneath him. In an instant, he pushed himself off the ground with wind magic and leapt a small distance away from his initial position.

He looked, and a giant spike had emerged out of the ground, impaling the spot he was just at before quickly disappearing underground.

“Who is it?!” Kaidus yelled out. He did not want another repeat of what happened the other day.

Looking around, he saw some students looking at what was happening, but none of them were the one who attacked him.

The earth in front of him quickly rose up and transformed into a giant hand, attempting to grab him.

Unsure of where the attacker was casting his magic from, he used wind magic again and jumped even further back.

“Show yourself!” he screamed again, but the assailant remained hidden.

As if it the previous attacks were just to test him, an instant barrage of mana infused leaves—from the nearby trees—rained down and encircled him. Razor sharp with mana infusion, they were there to cut off his retreats. The ground underneath him suddenly swallowed his legs, and trapped him. He felt another surge of violent mana.

Focusing own mana to cover his body, “Who?!” he screamed, blowing out the ground that had been holding him in place. Using the force of the explosion along with earth magic, he blasted away a side of the leaves and escaped the encirclement.

“…Master…” Hasen echoed again, its voice full of eagerness and wishing to come out.

“Stay out of this!” He commanded his familiar.

Cowardly attacking him with his back turned was one thing, but the attacker was blatantly trying to kill him. Trying to hold his anger in check, “ENOUGH!” Kaidus demanded.

Suddenly, a small orb of light manifested high above him, illuminating the darkening academy.

Students in the vicinity saw, as the sun reappeared.

 

 

In a small three-bedroom house of the 3^rd ward, a mother is reading to her daughter.

“…the Phrae queen asked the little girl, who stumbled upon the forest of the Phraes.”

“Ish shi a gud garl?” the little girl asked, tilting her head back to look at her mother.

“Yes. She’s a very good girl.”

“Like Anish?” Anise asked her mother.

Smiling, Adalina looked at her daughter. “Yes. A very good girl, just like Anise.” she replied back.

“Ehehehe” the little girl giggled triumphantly, before turning back to look at the picture book in front of her.

They were sitting in the living room. Adalina had just finished doing chores around the house and was taking time to read to Anise before preparing for Lunch.

“My mommy is sick. Please help her. Said the little girl.” Adalina read.

On the book was an illustration of a little girl kneeling before a floating woman.

“Hur momy shick?” Anise interrupted.

“Yea. Her mommy is sick.”

“Ish hur tummy hurting?” Anise asked with worry in her face.

“Yes, but she’s going to be fine.” Adalina reassured. Anise’s face beamed at the reassurance and refocused on the book in front of her.

“I cannot help you, but you can save your mother. The queen told the little girl. There is a fruit from inside the forest. You will have to get it yourself.”

A picture of a curved white fruit was illustrated on the page.

“UHN!” Anise acknowledged.

“Only by having her eat it, can you save your-”

*knock* *knock* *knock*

Interrupted by someone at the door, Adalina stop and placed a marker onto the page.

‘Who could that be?’ she thought to herself as she lifted Anise off her lap and stood up to get the door.

“Wha abow the momy?” Anise asked her quizzically.

“She’ll be fine. Let mommy get the door first.” Adalina replied as she walked to the door. Anise followed behind.

Opening the door, her face perked up. “Welcome home.” Adalina spoke. A gentle loving tone in her voice.

“GAI!!” Anise cried out happily as she rushed forward to hug her big brother.

Seeing his baby sister and mother, Kaidus’ face lit up into a smile.

 

—

 

The agitation of the previous day prevailed on his mind.

With a lack of distraction on the carriage ride home, his thoughts kept reminding him of what he almost became.

Despotic people were what he hated the most. To have stepped into their shoes—even for a single moment—was an outcry against all that he is, and what he had fought so hard to not become ever since being reborn.

Memories he thought lost to him while in the void resurfaced.

-The incorrigible Emperor sauntering unannounced into their home in Andarg.
-His mother and father doing everything they could to appease the nobles of the Capital.
-His eldest brother’s unjust and concealed execution for defeating the Crown Prince during the Emperor’s games.
-His parent’s intense cries of agony.
-The constant fear under the Emperor’s heels.
-Too young and powerless to do anything.

Fragmented echoes of an age immemorial, a time before the darkness took him…

In the carriage, he wept silently as the memories overwhelmed him.

Upon seeing Adalina’s gentle smile and Anise’s joyous greeting, their light extinguished the fog that was his troubled mind.

He greeted them with a smile.

 

—

 

“…held hands as they walked home. The End.” Kaidus read to Anise.

A picture of a mother and daughter walking towards the sunset was on the last page.

“YAY!!” Anise cheered.

Having given him a hug upon his return, Adalina was now currently in the kitchen preparing an early lunch, and he had taken it upon himself to finish the children’s book for Anise.

“Are you well?” Adalina asked, coming back to the living room.

“Yes. I’m fine.”

“Are the other students treating you alright?” she pestered.

“I’m fine mother. Sorry for worrying you.” A genial reply to quell his mother’s worries.

“It’s a little early, but how about lunch?” She asked.

“Lanch eet Gai. Lanch!” Anise called beside him.

“That would be great.”

Over lunch, he heard from Adalina about the packed lunch that Troyle had brought him on his way to Lord Varath’s, but was stopped at the gates by a creature. Unable to get in and not wanting to intrude, Troyle had given up and left.

“That is probably Zeeke. The Gate Seer of the academy.” He told her, imagining what would have happened if Troyle had attempted to force his way in.

“Gate seer?” Adalina asked.

“A Nature guardian spirit. Everyone who wants entry into the academy needs an enchantment of admission or else Zeeke would attack them.” Kaidus replied, holding up his hand for her to see.

“Ish he Niesh?” Anise spoke up from her side of the table.

“He’s very nice. But only if you have this.” Kaidus pointed to the enchanted symbol on his hand.

“Waaa…” Anise gazed at it in awe.

…

The majority of the day consisted of him excitedly listening to Anise’s stories about what she has been doing for the past couple of days, and answering Adalina’s questions about the academy while just taking in the coziness of home.

He went along with Adalina and Anise to the market district to procure ingredients for dinner, and gave her a hand with the preparations.

Although shopping with Adalina was something of a usual routine, this time, he noticed many gazes towards their direction.

Troyle came home later that day and excitedly asked him about how he’s been doing at school during dinner.

Reiterating his stories for Troyle, the family stayed in the living room making small talk until night. Anise, unwilling to fall asleep in case her brother disappears again.

On his bed on the second floor, Kaidus slept soundly. His mind, serene.

Hasen’s ring never making a sound.

 

—

 

As if a lifetime ago, with the shackles of being around the nobles untethered, he was freely running through the shopping district of the 3^rd ward.

The familiarity of the paved roads, the familiar faces as he passed by, the joyous shouts of greetings and haggling in the morning market rush. The smell of raw ingredients freshly butchered or picked, the fragrance of freshly cooked snacks in vendor stalls, and aromas of flavors intertwining as they wafted out of inns to entice those walking about.

Kaidus took them all in as he made his way to ‘Tales Corner’.

As he ran, he detected stares from those he passed.

Unlike the aggressive ones of the academy or the scorns of those of the villagers, it was a look of surprise and delight.

…

“Welcome, young master.” The shop owner greeted him with a grin.

 “Good morning, Mister Larson. And please, just Kaidus is fine.” He replied back.

He was there for a book, as he was unwilling to suffer through the ride back as he did on the way home.

“No can do, young one. Word has gotten around, people are talking. You, young master, are the pride of the 3^rd ward’s shopping district.” The man Larson replied back with a proud smile.

“?” Kaidus gave a look of confusion.

“We’ve all heard. You are currently a member of the esteemed Zorin Academy, and the boy who all the guards had been searching for. Our 3^rd wards own little wonder.” The shopkeeper explained with an enormous grin on his face.

“Ha… Please don’t mock me Mister Larson.” Kaidus replied.

“HAHAHAHAH! It is not mocking boy! I am honestly honored to have you patronize my humble shop. Ask anyone, and they’ll say the same.” Larson asserted jovially.

“…thank you very much.” He replied, barely able to thank the shop owner properly.

“Well, take your time then.” Larson added.

Kaidus went straight towards one of the shelves and picked up a book he had glimpsed the last time he was here.

Kargalls: Lords of the Skies. By Atrozius Ferna Violius.

He had read plenty of books depicting and describing Drakalls so he had not chosen the book before, but having a limited selection, it was the one that played on his interest the most.

“Ah, a great choice. The sheer depths that Master Violius goes into on the Kargalls is eye opening. Truly a great source of information.” The shop owner spoke as he assessed the book. “Will this be all for today?”

“Yes please.”

“That will be eight Erns even.” Larson spoke without looking at the price.

“Mister Larson, the book is marked for sixteen and three.” Kaidus answered back.

“For you, it is eight even.”

“Mister Larson…”

“There is no greater cause for me, than to see bright one’s such as yourself claw themselves out of humble beginnings and into greatness. I hope that you will one day remember my shop fondly, when you have turned into a great man.” The shop owner spoke passionately. “That being the case, I would not be able to run my business much longer if I start giving you books for free. So, we’ll call it eight even.” The shop owner added to his passionate speech with a teething grin on his face.

“Thank you very much for your consideration.” Kaidus gave the man an appreciative bow.

On his way home, he caught more of the shop owners looking at him with smiles on their faces. He knew the reasons why.

“… Master …” the ring sounded in his mind. A tone uncertain if worried or surprised to see the change in its master.

“Did you get a new book?” Adalina asked, as he returned home.

“Yes. One about Kargalls.” Kaidus replied happily to his mother.

“Can you please look after Anise while I clean up?” she asked him.

“Sure.”

…

“Gai! Whoosh wooosh!” Anise told him, indicating something.

“Alright.”

His fingers twitched, a single thought, and magic manifested.

A wind swirled around them both, gently and slowly.
The breeze swam about between Anise’s hairs, moving from strand to strand.
Anise started laughing happily as the breeze tickled her.
With another thought, the breeze slithered in between them both, then started looping in a small circle.
He put his hand in the loop, catching a nice draft of warm air.
Anise followed with her own tiny hand, giggling at the phenomenon in front of her.

As Adalina busied herself with chores, he sat and entertained his little sister with magic.

 

—

 

By evening, they were sitting around the dinner table.

Troyle was talking about what had occurred earlier in the day, and was finishing up his recounts about the process of clearing out the Korgas that were infesting the fields. With an abrupt end to what he was saying, “Kaidus. Would you come with me to Lord Varath’s Manor tomorrow?” Troyle asked.

“Hm?” he gave Troyle a puzzled look.

“The lord mentioned that he wanted to meet you.” Troyle answered.

“What is the occasion?” Kaidus replied back.

“You remember Larant, Lord Varath’s son? He is to attend Zorin next term. I stopped training him in swords because he awoke to his magic last Rinol. He’s been learning and developing his magic with an instructor at home.” Troyle spoke fastidiously.

‘?’ He was confused how it had anything to do with him.

“We were talking, and Lord Varath excitedly mentioned hearing rumors of a boy from the 3^rd ward being sponsored into Zorin, asking me if I knew anything. When I told him I knew the boy, and that you were my son… well, the lord had excitedly asked for me to see if I could bring you along sometime.” Troyle explained with a smile on his face.

“Hmmm…”

“It is perfectly fine to refuse Kaidus. I can always tell him you are still at Zorin.” Troyle aided with an excuse.

“…No. I’ll go. I should meet Lord Varath.” He replied, having made up his mind.

 

—

The next morning.

The Manor was not as far as the Ravon’s estate, and was situated toward the center of the 11^th ward—where the bulk of the nobles resided.

They stopped in front of a large manor and Kaidus and Troyle both got off.

Though much smaller than the Ravon Manor, it had a cordial atmosphere about it. Lacking a gate and walls, there were two guards posted out in front of the door.

As they walked by, the guards greeted Troyle and Kaidus before opening the door for them.

“That’s him. That’s the kid they had been searching for.” One of the guard whispered as the doors closed behind them.

Following Troyle, they headed to the Lord’s study.

“Lord Varath, Troyle is here.” a servant announced, knocking on the door.

“Please come in.” A masculine voice answered.

Opening the door, Kaidus saw an immaculately dressed man. The man looked to be a few years younger than Lord Huin and had a slender physique. His short dark blue hair—almost black—were neatly combed back, and he sported a nicely trimmed beard on his chin, giving his already tall stature a handsome appearance.

“Good morning Troyle.” The Lord greeted as the door closed behind them.

“That must be your son, Kaidus.” A twinkle of delight and surprise surfaced in his eyes for an instant.

“Yes, My lord.”

“Welcome to my humble abode, young Kaidus.” Lord Varath spoke with a wide grin.

“Thank you for inviting me, my Lord.” Kaidus replied, adding a bow of gratitude.

“I should be the one thanking you for your visit.” The lord answered, giving a nod in return.

“Lord Varath, about the matters we discussed yesterday.” Troyle spoke, his voice resolute.

“Yes of course, I will not bring it up. I just wanted to confirm something for myself.” The Lord eased Troyle’s mind. Assessing Kaidus, “Do you know what a noble’s favorite past time is, young man?” Lord Varath questioned, his tone grim and threatening.

‘…Master…’ Hasen echoed.

‘Control yourself.’ He ordered the ring in his mind.

“I’m afraid I do not, my Lord.” Kaidus replied, his voice calm yet unconvincing.

“Take a guess.” The Lord requested with an imposing gaze.

“Reading.” He instantly replied back.

“GYAHAHAHA!” Lord Varath burst out in laughter. The former intensity all but gone. “It is exactly as you said Troyle. It’s as if he can see right through you!”
Having calmed down, Lord Varath started again. “Well, while I do like a good story here and there, it is discussing the decisions of those around them. The movements of their rivals, the glory of their neighbors, the games of the nobility. But… I’m sure an intelligent boy like you already know that, don’t you?” Lord Varath answered his own question.

“Rumors of the noble’s court does not interest me.” Kaidus replied nonchalantly.

“HAHAHAHAH!! You really are something! I had thought Troyle’s praises were all but to indulge himself on his son, clearly I am mistaken.” The Lord said with a wide smile.
“Lord Varath, not in front of my son…” Troyle chided, trying to hide his embarrassment

“The ‘rumors of the noble’s court’ says that you have awoken to your magic? That Lord Ravon, upon witnessing your powers, stole you away from your family and entered you into the prestigious Zorin Academy?” An abrupt question.

“Although some of those facts are exaggerated, yes.” He replied, understanding what would be coming next.

“Can you show me?” The Lord entreated.

Exactly what he was expecting…
Looking around the room, papers were scattered all over—scraps of crumpled papers, and blank pages.

Slivers of light streaked through his hair for an instant. Suddenly a gust of wind fluttered through the room. Crumpled papers flew into a basket in the corner, as the blank usable pages aligned themselves into a pile on the Lord’s desk.

After the display of magic was finished, Lord Varath wordlessly rang a tiny bell on his desk.

Moments later, someone answered from the other side of the door, “Yes, my lord?”

“Please go bring Sylvia and her mother.” Lord Varath instructed.

…

Soon, a beautiful woman in a gorgeous blue dress walked into the study. On the hems of her dress, clutched a girl also in a blue dress, around his age.

“This is my wife, Reanne.” Lord Varath Gestured to his wife.

“And this, is my daughter Sylvia. She had just turned 6.” Lord Varath pulled the girl away from her mother to give him a better look. “Although she is like this now, I’m sure she’ll grow up to be a beautiful young lady one day. How would you like to marry her?”

 “Wha-..?” Kaidus eked out a surprise as he lost his tongue.

“Stand down Hasen! These two are MINE.” A livid tone escaped his mouth, quelling the familiar’s anger instantly.

Memories of past oppression by the same type of people filled his cool calculating mind.

-torture
-death of loved ones
-powerlessly begging
-the darkness
-THE CARNAGE
-the emptiness…

‘Never again.’ he had promised himself. It was time…

“Master…” Hasen muttered, dissipating and retreating into the ring out of fear. The bloodlust emitted by his master was one he had not felt ever since that fateful day outside of Veratoraliz.

Having seen what just happened, the two students stood frozen in place. Terror like never before constricted them and refused to let them escape. Their previous feasible outlook of defeating the child—via ambush—had evaporated, and an oppressive presence now coiled about and encircled the two as if to choke the life out of them.

Watching the child slowly stalk toward them, they finally noticed it.

The boy’s usual calm demeanor was all but gone. His body was enveloped by a thin visible film of pure mana, streaking a pale blue here and there as it reflected the sun. His previously childish eyes were dark and lacked any innocence. Inside them, lurked the broken shadow of death.

Powerless as the child closed in on them, the female student started to cry while the male student tightly shut his eyes, unwilling to look at Kaidus any longer.

They did not even have the capacity to think about using their status to bargain, nor the name of their houses. It was like being in the tight jaws of a Drakall. No matter how much a person begs and plea, in the end, they were just food.

“Open your eyes.” Kaidus spoke to the male student whose knees had given out and was currently eye level with him.

Looking at Kaidus, the student started tearing up.

“Please. *sob* we… we didn’t mean to!” The female inserted in between her sobbing.

“You DARE, lie to me?” Kaidus retorted, his voice emotionless. “Such blatant aggression cannot be construed as ‘ACCIDENTAL’.”

“P-Please!!! We’re sorry!!” the male student cried out in anguish.

“Do not presume for even a second that being a child, I do not understand the scorn from all of you ‘Elites’. That I will just lie down and be trampled upon for your amusement.”

“Please… please… please… please… please… please… please…” the boy whimpered as he pleaded, while the girl’s sobbing grew louder.

“Why should I spare cowards, who conspire against me behind my back? Why should I spare you two?” He angrily retorted at the incessant pleading.

“Please forgive us… we *sob* we’re sorry… *sob* we won’t ever do it again *hic*” the female student begged.

Kaidus drew away from staring them down.

“Consider yourselves lucky, for this life has taken too much already.” Kaidus spoke, grinding his teeth to suppress the urge to obliterate the two in front of him.

“Know that your insignificant lives mean NOTHING to me. I am here for answers, not to join in on your petty squabbles. Leave me be, or there will BE no next time.” He advised, before walking away.

Wails of relief exploded behind him.

 

—

 

A good distance away from the event that had just taken place, an academy master had been watching.

Ever since Kaidus’s duel with Prim, Keral had paid close attention to the boy.

It was two days ago when he noticed something peculiar going on.

He had been seeing Lisin and Jorva whenever he spied Kaidus walking about the academy grounds.

He had been waiting until after class today to discuss what was going on in private, but as soon as class was over, they had disappeared.

It was sheer coincidence that he saw them behind one of the practical buildings on his way back to his room.

From a distance, it looked like the three were talking, and then Kaidus walked away.

Suddenly without provocation, Lisin and Jorva ambushed the boy with magic.

He had been surprised at the sudden attack and was invoking a barrier hoping to make it in time. Yet before he could finished the incantation, a cloud of black smoke had suddenly erupted from the boy’s vicinity, swallowing the two intermediate student’s magic—like dousing an ember with a tub of water.

What came next had been even more startling.

The smoke then formed into a figure, and spoke. It was unlike anything he had ever seen before.

‘Master’ The thing had called the young boy. Even being a full building away, the entity’s words thundered in his ears.

Kaidus stepped forward, and the entity vanished.

Suddenly an oppressive atmosphere swept over him, locking him in place as the young boy stalked toward the two older students.

He had tried to undo the immobilization with counter spells of his own, but was unable to, as it had been the child’s bloodlust and overpowering will that had rooted him.

Fearing for the two students, he could do nothing but watch in awe as even his own body was unwilling to approach the incident that was unfolding.

Jorva suddenly fell on his knees, while it looked like Lisin had started crying.

It was impossible to tell who the victims were.

Having approached the students, Kaidus turned and left—as if nothing had transpired—moments later. Leaving the two students to cry in despair.

As the child strode away, the oppressive atmosphere cleared away almost instantly and he was able to move again.

Having seen everything, ‘we have severely underestimate Lord Ravon’s claims…’ Master Keral admonished himself.

…

The master had not been the only one in the vicinity of the bloodlust. A number of students who had been in the building adjacent to the event had become unconscious when the domineering atmosphere swept through.

Like Keral, other masters who had been in the building were fixed in place unable to move. None of them had any idea as to what was happening besides the indomitable fear binding them.

It was only after the air had cleared, that people started coming out to investigate.

Only find Lisin and Jorva in their despicable state.

 

—

 

‘What was I doing?! I was about to kill them both!’ His temper having cooled enough for him to start thinking logically, and was reevaluating the incident after returning to his room. “I did not obtain this strength to become like them!” He scolded himself.

He had lost his senses when the two students mindlessly attacked him without an ounce of consideration for his wellbeing.

More memories flashed in his mind.

-a broken mind, his powers outraged.
-death… so much death.
-everyone he cared about, gone.

He could have gone about the incident a lot more amicably and still gotten his point across. He thought as he sat down on the floor and began meditating to calm his mind.

 

—

 

“NO! NO MORE! Leave me out of this!” Lisin screamed at Prim before shutting the door in her face.

“Lisin, let me in!” Prim yelled out.

“Prim you can’t do this! W-WE can’t do this! He warned us!” Lisin yelled from inside her room. Fear and panic prevalent in her voice.

“What happened?! Lisin! Talk to me!”

“I don’t know! JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!” Lisin yelled out. She had started to cry.

Unable to get anything out of her friend, Prim left her friend alone.

“STUPID! STUPID! STUPID!” Rebuking herself, Lisin recalled the actions she and Jorva had taken in their emotional state. Those icy eyes that were filled with hatred and death. She could still see them clearly whenever she closed her eyes. “I want to go home…” She cried, wishing to be as far away from the academy as possible.

 

—

 

A hunched Jorva sat on one of the benches, his face down and unwilling to look at her.

 “Not you too!” Prim exclaimed upon seeing the young man. She had asked someone to fetch him from his room for this occasion.

Jorva and Lisin were two of her closest friends in the academy. She had known them since her first year, and their rivalry had helped push her to where she is now.

Unable to accept her loss to Kaidus, the two had helped her hatch a plan for revenge.

They would watch and tail him to find any sign of weakness or unlawful actions, and use that against him to humiliate or get him thrown out of the academy.

But it seems the plan had fallen to pieces just after a couple of days.

Having visited Lisin, she had never seen her friends in such a state.

“Please tell me what happened.” Prim pleaded.
“W-we need to s-stop this P-Prim…” Jorva was stuttering and his voice was barely audible.

“Jorva. Please. What happened?” She asked again.

“H-He had a g-guardian Spirit… I-it t-t-TALKED!” Jorva cried out in fear.

“Jorva. Spirits don’t talk! And it’s impossible for him to already have a spirit!” Prim knew the summoning classes didn’t start learning to bind their spirits yet.

“Y-you go attack him a-and see for y-yourself!!” Jorva yelled back, fear and anger mixed together.

Prim gave a dumbstruck look at the unusual outburst.

“H-He’s not right, Pr-Pr-Prim, s-something’s not right about h-him. W-we need to s-stay as f-far away as we c-can. H-he said t-t-there will b-be-be no ne-ne-next t-time” Jorva eked out the warning the boy had given them, before bringing his hands to his face to hide the tears. “H-he’s d-da-dangerous.” He added, wiping his tears before getting up and retreating.

Prim stared in complete loss at what could have happened to the two. She had come for answers, but now she was more confused than ever.

 

—

 

An old bald man with a scruffy white beard was sitting in his office, happily whistling while looking through ledgers recorded by his assistants.

Earlier in the day, his extremely acute senses had picked up a colossal outburst of mana within his academy. 

‘An exceptionally powerful one has appeared.’ He had mused to himself at the time.

He is the current headmaster of Zorin academy. He is, Nylen Gvius Daz Jozion. One of two Malizurs in the continent of Darsus, and the only mage of such rank in all of Ferrent. He had earned the title Daz, derived from the spirit name Das for his unrivaled mastery with earth magic.

One of the perks of being a headmaster, was not having to do anything himself. Being something of an eccentric, Nylen had literally shut himself in his room for days, with his assistants bringing him news and anything he required. His only actual job now was looking through official documents affiliated with the academy, and drafting some of his own for the instructors.

Of course, the letter of recommendation from Lord Ravon had fallen into his hands. He himself was the one who had approved of the untimely admission, but had been skeptical of the contents of the letter, paying no heed to them. The admission was merely to comply with regulations, and do an old friend a favor. He had not been expecting much.

Yet now, his blood boiled in anticipation at meeting the child.

 

—

 

In his room, the Kaidus stirred.

Having been unable to purge his frustration with meditation, he had spent the night falling into his blade forms and mindlessly training until his body gave out and sleep overtook him.

The academy had a system of seven days of classes and then four days off, called the Ryes for students to practice and reflect on what they’ve learned.

The previous day was the last day of classes before the ryes, and today was the beginning of the break. He would use this chance to return home. Hopeful, that seeing his family would help ease and clear his head.

Stopping by the shops around the boarding houses, he got himself breakfast—grilled oriv deer skewer with a scoop of mashed mulse and a cup of tangy shara—before heading off towards the academy’s gate.

Being the start of the ryes and early morning, very few students were up and about.

“Good morning Zeeke.” He greeted the small canine looking spirit guarding the gate as he approached.

Zeeke was currently in its small feline form, taking in the morning rays in front of its shack. “RA! GARAR!” it replied back, looking away uninterestedly.

Kaidus gave a dry smile. He had made an effort to find Zeeke after he learned about the spirit, and had found it three days ago.

Surprisingly, the creature was of the nature element, and its elusiveness was due to its constant attention toward animals that had wandered into the academy.

He was walking back from the library between one of his classes that day when he stumbled upon a small feline chasing a bird across the academy excitedly. As soon as the cat noticed him, it grew in size and transformed into that of a majestic Joukis—a large cat—as if to flaunt its magnificence, and for him to disregard the previous disgraceful display. He had been able to feel an immense amount of power emanating from the spirit.

After showing that he did not mean to intrude onto the spirit’s playfulness, the feline had approached him to assess him before returning to its small form and continuing its antic.

After that first meeting and knowing what it was, he had been able to spot the spirit about the academy here and there, chasing various other small creatures.

“…it is… but a child…” Hasen remarked to him as they passed through the gate.

A short walk from the gates of the academy, he entered one of the many buildings that had carriage services.

“Will you require a pick up young master?” A clerk at one of the service desks asked him as he voiced his business.

“Yes. Please.”

“Let’s see… trip to the 3^rd ward with a pick-up in three days… distance… time…. That will be 17erns and 4kuis. 8erns there and 8 to pick up with an added 1ern 4kuis for convenience.” The clerk replied after doing some quick calculations. “You can either pay for the pick up now or later, along with the additional 1 and 4.”

Kaidus gave the clerk 10 metal double-bits. He had used one of the three green fers Troyle had given him to pay for his meals in the academy, and had change left over from it.

“Thank you for your patronage.” The clerk replied, handing him back 2erns and 3kuis.

As the small single person carriage passed the scenery of farms and elongated stone houses around the academy, making its way into the residential areas of the nobility, he regretted not bringing a book to pass the time.

 

“Hasen.” Kaidus spoke to the entity in front of him.

“Yes… master…” it replied back, voice raspy and intangible.

“Where is Vishan?”

“I… do not know…” The figure of smoke replied.

“What about Zion and Feziel?”

“I… do not know…” The same reply.

“Did you know I would return?” He finally asked a more reasonable question.

“Yes…”

“Why did I return?”

“Me…” A swift answer. One of the many answers he had been looking for.

“Explain. NOW.” Kaidus demanded.

“Your will… my life… death… impossible… we two… must die… together… only way…” as cryptic as the explanation was, the main points were there.

“… Is it the same case with the others?” Kaidus asked curiously.

“No…”

“Hasen, you must explain. I cannot understand when you do not.” Kaidus spoke to the entity, his voice calm.

“By your will… master… gifts… bestowed… each brother… their own… mine… life… as long… as I live… you will always… return… while you live… I cannot… perish…” The entity gave a broken explanation.

‘That explains why…’ He silent reasoned, trying to give answers to previously unanswered questions with the onslaught of information he had just received.
“Do the others also know that I am back?” he spoke up after a silent moment, having sorted his thoughts.

“I… do not know…” The smoky figure replied. “I… was the first… my connection… strongest…”

“You should have known I’ve been back for years. Why call to me now?” Kaidus inquired.

“Knowledge… yes… connection… impossible… Lagus… link had to be… re…established…”

“I see…” By tapping into Lagus for his summoning class, he had restored the link he had with Hasen, and possibly the others.

 “Tell me, what has happened while I was gone?” he asked Hasen.

“I… do not know… master…”

An expected answer.

Gritting his teeth, “What of Lovik?” Kaidus slowly spat out.

“The… ancient one… slumbers… awaiting his… freedom…”

Kaidus’ anger flared up for an instant, yet it disappeared just as fast. Having spent an enormous amount of time and mana to summon Hasen from wherever he had been, the time for his 3^rd class was quickly approaching. It was not the time to be infuriated. “Stay here. I will be back.” He directed.

“I… cannot comply… sense… magic… too long… have I waited… must protect… master…”  Hasen refused. The ever loyal protector.

“Then disguise yourself. I do not wish to be carrying around a weapon.”

Hasen’s form dissipated, and the dagger began shining and shrinking. Once the brightness died, in the dagger’s place was a small plain black ring.

Putting the ring on, Kaidus left his room and proceeded toward his next class: Subjugation.

 

—

 

Unlike the previous summoning class, subjugation had a good amount of students— around twenty in all.

Four of them he recognize from both his arkane and summoning classes.

Having gotten there before the subjugation master, some of the students looked at him oddly as he moved past them to a seat by the back of the room. Looking around the lecturing hall, his eyes caught the young man who was in his summoning class. The student was surrounded by a group of others, and they were all looking back at him.

“They… mock you… master…” the ring echoed in his head.

“It is of little concern. Let them do as they will.” He replied silently.

One of the female students who had been sneering at him caught his line of sight and stalked over to Kaidus—as the other students made silent cheers. The girl looked to be in her late teens. She had beautiful green hair braided into a style he had not seen before, her body was slender, yet had generous proportions where it mattered. He could see she was a beauty at once.

“You must be Kaidus, Lord Ravon’s little Paragon.” The student spoke, her smirk prevalent.

“I am Kaidus. Lord Ravon is my patron.” He gave her an honest reply while looking her in the eyes. She had green eyes that matched her hair.

There was no use hiding the fact that Lord Gelrin Ravon was his sponsor. He had deduced that a good portion of the academy already knows, or that they knew a powerful Lord was behind his admission.

Irritation surfaced on her face. A tip of the mouth, a slight of the eye, he caught them all in an instant before they vanished.

“I am Prim Ashlin Lithius, of the proud Lithius house of Mages that serves directly under his majesty King Sarjace. Second daughter, and third child to attend this prestigious academy.” Prim spoke out her title and family, then leaned in close to him. “I heard about your deficiencies earlier in your summoning class. You would do well to stay out of our way… peasant.” She warned, her last word filled with malice.

“Pleased to make your acquaintance.” Kaidus replied, his voice calm and undeterred.

Seeing his conduct antagonized her even further.

“You will learn your place soon enough.” She smiled a beautiful smile as she spoke those words, before heading back to the group of students.

‘Master…’ the ring reverberated in his head.

‘Stand down Hasen.’ He whispered back.

‘The wench… dares to… threaten… you…’ It continued.

‘Enough.’ He ordered.

‘Yes… master…’ Submitting, the ring went quiet.

It was not long before the subjugation master arrived and class was underway.

The master had lectured about the necessity of immobilization and its versatilities, demonstrating one of the various ways to immobile a person by using vexatious students as demonstrations.

It was now group practice, and the master was pitting them against each other.

“I don’t think I need to remind you—having already done this plenty of times already. But, just to be sure, NO offensive magic. As usual, the practice will be elimination. You will get points depending on how many of your opponents you immobilize, and my assessment of their strength.”

“Master Keral, what about the new student?” a male student asked.

“Kaidus will sit out this time to get a feel for the practice. As usual, we will start with miss Lithius first.” Master Keral replied. “Prim!”

“Yes master!” The girl eagerly spoke as she came forward.

The practice was a one on one duel in a separate room right next to the lecture hall.

There was an elongated oval made out of wood in the middle of the room—where the duelists would compete.

The practice encompasses spell incantation, invocation speed, strength of the spell, and most importantly: control.

While speed and strength of the spell came into play, it was the amount of strength put into application of the spell—by the user—that is the most crucial. Too much power, and your opponent could be permanently damaged. Not enough, and the duelist would be unable to resist his opponent’s magic.

Like a flame. Feed it just enough while properly stoking it, and your meal will be cooked to perfection. Too much fuel, and the pyre will swallow everything whole leaving nothing but charred remains.

Having given the class the incantation for a simple paralysis spell, master Keral ushered Prim and a girl onto the stage.

“Looks like you are out of luck this time too Shesal.” Prim spoke, grinning at the other girl.

“I’ll definitely have you on the ground begging at my feet this time, Prim.” The girl Shesal replied back jovially.

“Enough talk you two. Begin!”

“Asiran! Notis valian shis-!” Shesal voiced her incantation out loud, while at the same time, prim was silently muttering hers.

Suddenly Shesal’s incantation stopped and she started twitching. She dropped down on the ground and began writhing and convulsing, trying to break free of the binding. A couple seconds later, the movement stopped. She had given up.

Some of the girls cheered while many clapped.

‘She’s good.’ Kaidus thought to himself, having witnessed the spectacle.

Prim’s magic had power and control behind it. The speed was also quite fast.

“Next, we’ll have Ryker take on prim.” The master spoke, having unbound Shesal from her constricted position.

“HERE!” the student called out as he walked out of the audience onto the stage.

Kaidus watched as Prim easily took down her opponents one by one. Overall, half of the class had already lost to her undefeated streak.

“You guys. What have you been doing outside of class?!” Master Keral yelled at the students.

“…” no one spoke up.

“You all need more practice! I had thought at least by the 5^th one, you would have taken Miss Prim off of her streak. And here 14 of you, single handedly defeated! How did you go from 8 last time to 14 this time?!”

“Even if you say that… Prim is just too strong…” a defeated boy quietly spoke.

“Enough of the excuses! You are all in this class because all of the masters have deemed you adequate. Don’t even dare try to give me an excuse like ‘she’s just too strong’. You all just lack practice and commitment!” an angry tirade came out of the master and the boy went quiet. “Any volunteers to take on Prim?” Master Keral asked, looking at the group of students who had not yet had a turn.

“Master.” Prim spoke.

Everyone turned to look at her.

“I’m sure Kaidus has had enough of spectating? Surely any member of the Academy would understand the rules and conducts for this practice by now.” she spoke genially.

“Hmm…” Pondering about the idea, Master Keral looked at Kaidus.

“We all already know that Lord Ravon was the one who made the exception for him into Zorin. All of us are exceedingly curious about his abilities. You said so yourself, ‘we are all here because we have been deemed adequate’, won’t you allow us this chance to see Kaidus’s abilities?” Prim spoke coyly.

“All of you?” Master Keral looked back at her students. Everyone nodded at him. “Ha… so much for keeping that under wrap.” The master gave a defeated sigh and turned to Kaidus. “Kaidus, will you please join Prim in the exercise?” He himself was quite eager to see the potential of the one who the Lord Knight Commander had hastily admitted into Zorin.

“Of course.” Kaidus voiced as he stepped forward from the audience.

“Don’t go and have a panic attack this time.” A boy jeered out.

“Do you at least remember the incantation?” One of the Kovus boy’s asked.

“Go easy on the kid, Prim.” One of the girls chimed in.

“SHOW HIM NO MERCY!” Another one yelled out.

Walking into the arena, Prim’s gaze was on him the whole time. ‘So this is what she meant by “you will learn your place”…’ He thought to himself. A conniving grin appeared on Prim’s face as he took his position and turned to face her.

“Both contestants ready?” Master Keral checked.

“YES!” Prim exclaimed excitedly.

“Yes.” Kaidus spoke.

“Begin.”

As soon as the signal came, Kaidus extended his left hand toward Prim.

The room stopped. The duel was over.

Prim was solidly frozen in place. Her mouth never even had time to mutter a single line of the paralysis incantation.

She was so firmly in place, that even her eyes were unable to blink.

Kaidus lowered his left hand and calmly turned to look at Master Keral for the duel’s conclusion.

“What’s going on?” The onlookers asked each other, unable to explain what just happened.

“W-winner. Kaidus…” Master Keral spoke, his voice filled with fear and awe.

‘Incredible…’ In that instant after he had signaled to begin the duel, a single blast of condensed mana erupted from the child—following along his outstretched arm and assaulted Prim. There had been no invocation or anything, his magic had been perfect. Every single ounce of the mana employed had been solely towards the complete immobilization of Prim.

The paralysis magic itself was leagues beyond the simple incantation he had relayed to the class. Even he himself—a Malgin—would have taken time to invoke such a spell, whilst the child did it without speaking a single word.

‘A Malizur…’ he thought to himself. But in the depths of his mind, he remembered the legendary mages of ages past whose title has fallen into obscurity. Mages who bound spirits to their wills as easily as breathing. Sorcerers who wove and shaped the world. Tyrants who overthrew Kingdoms with their extraordinary strength. Warlocks who enslaved continents. Enigmas with the power to establish their own kingdoms.

‘Dvitus…’ The word rang sharply in his head.

“Class dismissed…” He called out, requiring time to calm down and collect his thoughts. All the students had puzzled looks on their faces. Kaidus made a curt bow toward him and simply walked out of the room.

It took Keral a combination of three advance incantations to unbind the frozen Prim.

 

—

 

“UNFORGIVABLE! UNFORGIVABLE! UNFORGIVABLE!!!!!!” In her room in one of the female boarding house, Prim loudly cursed Kaidus.

Born from a family with exceedingly good magical pedigree, she was the youngest of five children and had the most overwhelming amount of mana. She had awoken to her powers two years prior at the age of 15, and after having developed her magic to an extent via a home teacher, enrolled into Zorin Academy the previous year.

Establishing herself as a formidable student, she was quickly elevated to the intermediate courses after only a single year in beginners.

She was always one of the top, if not the top student in all of her classes. Especially in subjugation, she was unrivaled ever since the beginning of the new term. But, as abruptly as she rose to the top, some nobody had come and toppled her out of her position.

When the match started, glaring at him, she had caught his eyes. In that instant, a deep fear gripped her and before she knew it, she was already frozen.

She had been powerless in his binding. Unable to even cry out at the humiliation. She had tried a counter immobilization-cancel like those her elder siblings had taught her, even attempting an offensive ice spell in her desperation, but her mouth had refused to invoke the incantations.

The humiliation she had to suffer through as he walked out of the class like it was none of his business. The snickering of her classmates as they watched while the master carefully undid the bindings.

“CURSE HIM!! NEVER! I WILL NEVER FORGIVE HIM!!” She screamed.

 

—

 

Four days later, and word had started to spread.

Having taken down Prim, the students from the subjugation class was keeping their distance, and whispers were flying around.

Mirat caught him between one of his classes yesterday and asked him about it.

Having confirmed the rumors, Mirat had warned Kaidus that Prim has lots of friends in high places, and that she may retaliate.

There had been many looks of aggression, but no one had opted to come out and openly assault him.

Possibly until today.

“Can I help you?” He spoke to his stalkers.

Ever since the first day where he defeated Prim, there was always two presence following him out of his room and to his classes.

He had decided to confront his stalkers today. Turning the corner of one of the practical buildings to get out of sight of other people, he stood there waiting until his pursuers thought him far enough to follow.

“Uhk!” the boy made a noise, almost bumping into Kaidus.

There were two of them. A male and female student. Both of them were students in his subjugation class, and Kaidus knew them to be of Prim’s inner circle.

“We… we want you to tell everyone the truth!” the boy screamed, a tinge of hesitation and fear in his eyes.

“What truth?” Kaidus replied, uninterested.

 “That you cheated.” A prompt reply by the female student.

“The truth is, we had a practice duel and I won.” Kaidus replied, calmer than the two who confronted him.

“We know you cheated! There’s no way a commoner brat like you could have bested Prim in a contest of magic!” the female answered, anger and accusation in her voice.

‘…master…’ The ring resounded in his head. Kaidus paid no mind to it. “Do you have proof?” he inquired.

“…” Yet the two students had no reply.

“If there is no proof of foul play, then please do not falsely accuse me.” He rationalized before turning and walking away.

After a good distance, he hears –

“Your defeat is proof enough!” the girl shouted.

Looking back, a raging torrent of flames was storming toward him.

It was a combination attack and swirling about the flames, was a wind spell. Encircling the fire and keeping it from diffusing into an area, the wind spell directed both attacks straight at him.

A wall of smoke exploded out of the ring on his finger and shielded him.

Before the flame and wind could strike Kaidus, the wall of smoke had swallowed it.

“YOU… DARE…AT MY MASTER…” the cloud had formed into a figure.

Before him stood Hasen, Lord of Shadows and Ruler of Darkness.

Having sat through the first class with no new information to show for it – and plenty of time before his next one, Kaidus left the room and headed toward the library.

Reading had been something to occupy his time and to gather knowledge about the current world, but his ultimate goal has always been to find out about what happened to the world, and how long he has been gone.

Being an Elite Academy, he was certain the library would hold some answers to his questions.

The Library had 4 floors with multiple sets of stairs connecting the different levels. He headed straight for the 3^rd floor where he had spied a few historical tomes while skimming through the building the previous day.

‘Fall of the Agrian Empire, Rules of History, Devils of the Past, Trials and Tribulations of the Godunul Principality, etc…’

Looking at the titles, none of them came close to anything or place he has ever heard of.

Rules of history was about the suppressions and war between the different races three centuries ago, while Devils of the past merely identified mass murderers and tyrants of the past century. While the other books contained subjects that were irrelevant to his goal.

‘I need something even earlier than these.’ He concluded after looking through the books he had picked out. Luckily, this was but a small shelf in the third floor. He still has three years to peruse through everything in the library. Undaunted by the disappointment, Kaidus made his way towards the 2^nd class.

 

—

 

The class for intermediate summoning was outside for a summoning demonstration.

Arriving, the number of students in the class was merely 6 students including himself.

Three other humans, two female and a male, a male Kovus, a female Gveril, and Kaidus himself.

It was surprising for him to see Gverils in the academy, but seeing how they the bore closest resemblance to humans, he understood.

The master quickly introduced him to everyone and went on with her lesson, while the older students gave him looks of reproach.

“Summoning is not a means to an end. It it’s a means to help you reach that end. Abuse it, and you may find yourself unable to perform magic without the spirit’s help.”

The master said as she started reciting an incantation, then finally invoking it.

*SHWAK!!* A light spirit in the shape of a pegril—a type of bird with an exceptionally long antennae and wingspan—appeared.

“UWAA!” a male student muttered in awe at the sight of the spirit.

“As many of you may have surmised, I am a High Malgin. Only those who have reached the rank of Malgin are blessed by their spirits with the ability to summon them into the physical world as a familiar.” The Instructor specified.

“You all are extremely gifted, and the time for your own summons will soon approach. Even if you may never be able to summon them as familiars, know that just contracting them to help channel the mana from Lagus will make you a formidable mage.”

“Master, how many spirits are you contracted with?” The Gveril student questioned.

“I am currently contracted with 7 spirits, every element except shadow and metal.”

“Is there a problem with contracting more than one of the same elemental?” a female student voiced.

“Yes. Although there are special cases where Malizurs have been able to contract more than one of the same type of spirit, normally the limit is one type each. Anymore, and the spirits enter into conflict with each other.”

“What kind of conflict?” the same student investigated.

“Being of the same element, they will try and absorb each other within the physical plane. Most circumstances result in the death of both spirits.” the master answered gravely.

… Everyone had gone silent at the dark revelation.

“If there is no more questions, I would like for you to get into pairs and attempt a summoning. Luckily there are six of you so that shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Are we to bind the spirit?” the Gveril student spoke up.

“No. This time will not be the one where you bind your spirit. The practice is primarily to get in touch with the spirit world. If you are lucky, a spirit that has good affinity with you will make contact and link itself with your mind. If you are extremely lucky and the spirit chooses you, you will know.” the instructor explained the goal of the practice, along with some added anticipation.

“What about the incantation for the summoning?” The female student from earlier asked.

“Oh, right.”

Having disclosed the summoning incantation and the various methods of using it, the instructor took a seat on one of the many benches in the practice yard as a spectator.

Having paired up with the gveril, Kaidus was watching as his partner invoked the incantation to ease into Lagus and make contact with the spirits.

“Asiran! DEVO NAAGARTIAN! ENT FEIN-!” his partner was invoking the incantation for a fire spirit.

“AZAN! SURAN ENFREMS!” She yelled out her invocation.
Suddenly a ball of flame appeared in front of her, swirled about, and then vanished into her bosoms.

All the other students stared at the miraculous feat performed before them. Even the master who had been sitting down had stood up and was walking towards Kaidus’ pair with a look of astonishment on her face.

The other two students who were going first invoked the incantation a second time after having failed the first try. There was a sudden breeze that blew by indicating the contact with a wind elemental, and cry of shock as the confirmation of connection with the lightning elemental.

“That was incredible!” the three who had successfully made contact were happily talking amongst each other.

“I can’t believe it Rena, your spirit even came out to greet you!” one of the female students bellowed excitedly.

“It looks like this year’s batch has some promise.” The master spoke with a smile on her face. “Now the next three.”

It was finally his turn.

Summoning was not something he had been practicing in this new life–due to the fact that he had enough power to distort and mold the world to however he want.

But this being a class for summoning, he closed his eyes and concentrated.

No incantation was invoked.

He aligned his mana and synchronized with the elements; the sensation came easily. Like reopening a window that he had just closed.

‘Master…’ A voice called to him.

 

“!!!” Kaidus threw open his eyes, panic and sudden realization dawned on him.

Two of the other students muffled their laughter, while Rena eyed him quizzically. “Did you forget the incantation?” She asked.

“No. Sorry. Just feeling a bit unwell.” Kaidus quickly replied.

“Go to the admissions building. Master Borus will see to you.” The master instructed “Would you like some help to get there?” She added.

“It’s alright, I’ll be fine on my own.” Kaidus reassured as he headed toward the Admissions building.

Out of earshot, “Hahahaha! Did you see that? It was like he had a panic attack.” The Kovus boy laughed.

“How did a peasant like that even get into Zorin?” One of the female students remarked.

“Well, we won’t be seeing much of him if he keeps that up.” The human boy added.

“Quiet all of you. Proceed with the practice.” The master ordered.

…

Having left the class half way, he had an abundant amount of time until his next class. Instead of heading to the Admissions building, Kaidus headed straight to his room.

 

—

 

Adalina was currently looking around in the 3^rd ward market shopping for dinner. Anise was strapped to her back and ogling the shops while making incomprehensible conversation with the shoppers.

Anise had asked about Kaidus the day he left, and after hearing that he had gone somewhere, had cried herself to sleep that night. She had been asking about him incessantly for the past day only ending it that morning. 

Today would be the third day her son was away from the house, and she was excessively worried for him.

She missed his tiny posture when he sat sluggishly by the window reading one of the many books he brought home. Her conversations with him about the happenings around the 3^rd ward, his ruse with Anise making her laugh, and even his progressively detailed explanations when she asked him about what he’s reading.

“How about we cook something nice tomorrow morning and give it to daddy to see if he can bring it to Kai?” Adalina asked, turning her head to the side to talk to Anise.

“Fo Anish too?” Anise asked.

“For Anise too.” Adalina replied, a smile on her face.

“UHN!” Anise nodded happily.

 

—

 

“I see you are as busy as ever, Gelrin.” An older gentleman–although not as old as the lord–greeted the Old Knight Commander after intruding into his study.

“Pate? HAHAHA!” The old knight exclaimed, his voice ecstatic over the reunion. “You should have sent words! I would have greeted you at the gates!”

“There was no need for that. I wanted to see if you can still recognize an old man like me.” Pate sneered at the commander.

“BWAHAHAHHA!!” the old knight went into his fit of laughter. “You haven’t aged a bit! There’s no way I wouldn’t recognize you.” Having calmed down, Gelrin stood up. “Has it already been six years since your last visit to Ferrent?”

“I was here two years ago, but circumstances did not avail myself to come pay you a visit. My apologies.” Pate gave an apologetic bow.

“Nonsense! The records you brought me last time has really helped in my research. I am grateful that you even bothered to visit me at all!” Lord Gelrin spoke graciously.
“Please sit. We have much to catch up on!”

The two gents reminisced about their earlier days and eventually caught up onto current events.

With the pleasantries over with, business was starting.

“A little bird told me that you recently took a child under your wings, going as far as showering him with an exorbitant number of gifts and privileges?” Pate queried.

“I’ve done no such thing, but I did sponsor the child into Zorin.”

“Hoh? Zorin Academy?”

“The very one.”

“The bird also insinuated that the child played a large part in the recent incident at the plaza.” Pate added sheepishly.

“Well, just who is this bird? Let me know so that I may pay him his due respect with strangulation.” Gelrin jested.

“So, it is true.”

“Yes… Like I’ve told everyone who’s asked, while I was on the brink of death, the child… kind of… sort of blew up the kalligor. He saved my life and those of my men.” Lord Gelrin spoke, reluctant to fall into Pate’s pace.

“The child did it?” Like a riddle, things were coming together at last.

“Yes. It was unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. You may think me delusional, but after the boy was done, we could not even make out which pieces of the kalligor was which. Bones, flesh, scales, claws, everything had been shredded into pieces and blown about the plaza.”

“There was a flash of light…” Pate muttered.

“!!” it was now Gelrin who was curios. “How did you know?”

“I never told you, but six years ago I picked up a family of three. A husband, wife, and an infant child from a small village in southern Darsus. My caravan had been assailed by bandits, and having given up myself and those in my charge for death, a blinding light seared our eyes. When next my vision came to, I saw a scene of blood splattered all around us, and the young wife was holding her child to her breast.”

… Gelrin was shocked. ‘It was true.’ He thought to himself about Adalina’s declaration of the child’s capabilities ever since he was an infant.

“We in the caravan had thought the wife to be our savior… but if it was the child, then this is a completely different state of affairs. The measure of his abilities now that he’s grown… exactly what would become of such a person in the future?” Pate spoke carefully and quietly as if talking to himself.

“…” the old lord himself was pondering the same thing.

 

—

 

A dank chamber, filled with a surplus of artifacts and relics from ages past.

An old man quietly sat at a lone desk in the room, dutifully recording newly acquired items. This has been his job for the past 40 years and the work had become something of a rhythm to him.

On his desk laid two pieces of metal. One, a circular shape with a face on it. The other, a broken piece of a blade with runes carved along the edge.

As the old man jotted down descriptions and carefully illustrated the two pieces of metals into his ledger, a dim light caught the corner of his eyes.

The object that was emitting the light was an old ebony dagger. The hilt was glowing with a dim light while the blade had started to ooze a shadowy miasma.   

The object had never done anything like this in all the years since he began working there. Currently the 18^th generation of keepers, knowledge about everything inside the room was something that he prided himself on. Yet, this specific dagger was a mystery.

No one knew its origins, or could recall the person who founded the artifact. Even his predecessors had no knowledge of the dagger.

Being the only person allowed into the chamber, the old man was in a dilemma on how to approach this situation. Without any ideas, he stood at a distance, quietly watching to see what would happen.

The glow started getting brighter and brighter. The miasma that had been oozing now looked as if it was alive and started forming into something. Illuminated by the glow of the dagger’s hilt, the old man clearly saw the formation of an arm. The ethereal limb moved toward the dagger and as soon as the misty hand grabbed onto the hilt, the weapon vanished in a flash of light.

 

—

 

A sleek black dagger appeared onto an open palm. A cloud of black fog started seeping out of the dagger before forming into a shadowy figure, one of a fully formed upper body while its legs retained a misty cloud.

“… I… have been waiting… master…” The hazy figure bowed toward its master.

In the carriage, Kaidus was finishing up on the book: Life and Death of Malizur Lize Daran Fotbusen.

He had stowed it away when he arrived at the Ravon estate, but traveling in the carriage, it was the perfect opportunity to catch up.

A couple hours later and almost through with the book, he heard the driver.

“Young master, we are approaching Zorin Academy. I can only take to as far as the gates, you will have to walk the rest of the way.”

Engrossed in the book, Kaidus had neglected to look outside until this moment.

The street they were driving on was a triple lane road enough for three carriages side by side. There was even a walkway for people walking along the sides of the road.

The previously large mansions and homes he had passed by while on the way to the Ravon estate were non-existent, instead in their place rivaled long buildings made out of stones shining with the gleam of protective mana infusions.

There were even farms strewn about the area, presumably to feed the academy.

Many people walking about were looking at the carriage with curiosity in their eyes.

As they approached Zorin Academy’s gate, the driver stopped.

“I do not have permission for entry, so you will have to disembark here. That building over there is where new admissions are sorted through, and the small shack there is where the gate seer watches. If you show him your proof of admissions, he will call someone to help you with your luggage.”

The driver pointed to a building in the middle of what looks to be the academy and a small shack near the gate.

Finished with unloading his luggage,

“With that young master, I bid you the best of luck.” The driver gave Kaidus a nod before turning the carriage around and departing back to the Ravon estate.

Kaidus walked up to the shack he had been point towards.

“Hello?” He called out, but there was no answer. Looking around, there was no one to be seen around the gate. Confused, Kaidus let himself in.

The gate opened easily after touching it with his hand that sported the enchantment.

Although the carriage driver had told him that someone would come to get his luggage, with no one around, a single thought lifted the couple bags that he brought along, and he willed them to follow himself inside the gates.

‘Well, looks like it’s the admissions building that I should head to for now.’ Unable to find anyone, he started towards the admissions building that the driver had pointed out to him.

Following the pavement, a Kovus peered out of one of the adjacent buildings, then headed toward him.

The Kovus were a friendly race of Mountain dwellers and he remembered them to live primarily along mountain ranges burrowing into the mountain sides. In this new world though, it appears that they have adapted to the changes over the course of history like many of the other races and were coexisting with each other.

The Kovus race had human-like features with a face, body, arms, and legs. What they differed in was the streamlined protruding plates covering their head instead of hairs. Their hands were significantly larger and slenderer than the other races, with powerful legs that can propel them quickly whether it be for hunting prey or escaping predators. Although the majority of them lack affinity with mana, there are quite a few interracial marriages amongst the races nowadays, resulting in a large variety of races with the capability of birthing a mixed child with mana.

“Who are you and how did you get in?” The Kovus spoke.

She was a female, and from the looks of it, had retained little of the dominant Kovus features.

With a pale but beautiful face, her head retained the distinctive plates but only on the front, as the back of her head sprouted bright blue hair flowing down to her back.

Her arms and legs looked completely normal like those of any other humans and judging by her looks, she appeared to be around her 20s.

“I am Kaidus, a new student here. There was no one so I opened the gates and let myself in.”

“Where’s Zeeke?” The Kovus girl asked while scrutinizing him.

“I don’t know who Zeeke is, but I was told there would be a gate seer. I called for him but there was no answer.”

“Damit, that bloody thing better not be off chasing something again.”

“I was told to go to the admissions building upon arrival.” Kaidus interjected as she muttered curses about this Zeeke.

“Head straight forward like how you were.” She replied, scanning the grounds for Zeeke.

“Then, please excuse me.” Kaidus resumed his journey towards the admissions building.

Looking around, the Kovus spotted a few packs floating in the air following the child towards the building.

 

—

 

“AH! We’ve been expecting you! Lord Gelrin’s little, ‘prodigy’ if I may be so blunt.” A stout borderline overweight man happily exclaimed after Kaidus introduced himself and showed his proof of admission–the enchanted mark on his hand. 

“We’ve got your room all prepared and ready for you. All that is required to do now is to decide on what you will be studying while attending.”

“What are the options?” Kaidus asked.

“Lord Gelrin spoke extremely highly of you. He had said that it was unnecessary to put you in with the beginners, so we had decided on a couple of choice courses.”

-Intermediate Arkane studies: the theorization of mana infusions and manifestation into spells for combat, along with hands on display of said spells by teachers.
-Subjugations: a class to teach immobilization spells and self-defense.
-supplementation of mana: for those of lower mana capacities to use their mana efficiently and pull more from the spirit dimension of Lugas.
-Intermediate combat: a class to train mages for combat
-Intermediate summons: for those with an affinity for summoning magic, calling and binding spirits from Lugas.

“Of course, numbers and letters will also be taught for those who require them.” The jolly man smiled at Kaidus.

“…” It was his turn to be speechless. “… Would it be possible for anything more advanced?” Kaidus questioned.

“Don’t let the names and descriptions fool you. These classes are extremely high leveled. Usually a student would have to have studied here for at least two years before they are good enough to move on to intermediate. Even with lord Gelrin’s recommendations, we cannot put you any higher due to your age and the unknowns of your abilities.” The man smiled, a smile of satisfaction.

“I see. How many am I to sign up for?” Kaidus asked, unsure.

“You may sign up for three courses a term. At the end of that term, your skills will be evaluated to see if you may progress onto more advance classes.”

“Please sign me up for intermediate summons, intermediate arkane studies, and subjugations then.”

“Of course. Will you be requiring classes for letters and numbers?” The plump man asked.

“No. just those three are fine.”

 

—

 

Having signed up for his points of studies, he was shown to his room by one of the students. He had garnered many looks while walking through the academy grounds, but paid no attention to them.

His room was west of the admissions building, and in one of the larger boarding houses. The room was quite large for him alone, and came with many necessities. A desk, a large bed, chairs, even an apparatus that lights up by infusing mana into it, and the room even had a lounge chair made with fine fur. There was a shelf where he could store his books, and a chest for his clothes, along with a smaller chest infused into the building with a lock on it for valuables. Looking around the room, he spied a door that opens into his own private washroom complete with toilet and bath.

‘… This is too much.’ When the Old Lord said proper lodging had been found, he had not expected such a lavish suite.

Unloading, he stacked his clothes into the chest and put the one book he brought with him onto the shelf. After moving the paper and inks onto the desk, he was practically finished. In the last bag were a couple of steamed Derilt roots that Adalina had packed for him.

Taking them out, Kaidus ate while thinking about home.

 

—

 

Having finished eating, it was time to look around the academy.

Leaving his things in his room, Kaidus strolled outside into the midday sun.

The academy was overflowing with students moving briskly to and from buildings, many of their eyes caught his figure while their faces distorted into puzzlement. 

“Excuse me, are you one of the master’s child?” an older boy called out to him.

“No.” he replied as the older boy approached.

“Are you lost?” the boy questioned.

“No. sorry. I’m actually a student. I’ve just arrived today.” Kaidus explained to the boy.

“Oh, Sorry. I didn’t know. The name is Mirat Klivus, a 2^nd year student, and you?”

“Kaidus Paltos. This will be my first year. Pleased to meet you.”

“Pleasure is mine.” Mirat replied. “Paltos… never heard of that name before, is your family new in Ward 11?”

“Actually, I’ve lived in the 3^rd ward for the past 6 years.” Kaidus replied unashamed of his status.

“Amazing! A commoner in Zorin Academy!” Mirat was happily shaking Kaidus’s hand.

Students walking past were looking at him like he was crazy.

Taking a step back, Mirat looked at him more closely. “Exactly how old are you?”

“Seven.”

“WOW! The youngest student here is 15. To think that a seven-year-old…” Mirat went quiet talking to himself.

“Not at all. It was just a coincidence that I ended here.” Kaidus tried to quell the young man’s excitement, but such weak reasonings fell on deaf ears.

Without another word,

“Would it be too intrusive if I were to ask what studies you are taking?” Mirat, having calmed down by himself questioned.

“Looks like I’ll be taking intermediate Arkane studies, intermediate summoning, and subjugation. What about yourself?”

“Intermediate arkane studies… summoning… and subjugations…” Mirat echoed.

“Then we are taking the same studies.” Kaidus replied with a smile on his face.

“Oh no. I was just repeating yours to get them through to my head. My studies are Beginner’s combat, beginner’s supplementation of mana, and beginner’s subjugations…” Mirat’s voice lowered as he recited each of his classes.

“Apologies, I did not mean to offend.”

“Eh. Don’t worry about it. I knew it would be something like this when I asked… heheh…” Mirat replied with a slow defeated laugh.

 

…

 

 “Well, no use beating myself. Want me to show you around the grounds? My 2^nd class just finished I’ve got quite a bit of time before the next one.” Having quickly bounced back from his depression, Mirat offered to show Kaidus around.

“That would be greatly appreciated.” Kaidus accepted the boy’s offer.

Zorin Academy was nothing to scoff at. The area itself was more than 50 times larger than the 3^rd ward plaza with only two gates leading into the academy, and the academy itself was fenced up with mana infused iron bars all along the perimeters. There were even Azolus trees planted along the inside of the fences to give the academy a feel of privacy and disconnection from the outside.

From the admissions building in the middle, all the main facilities were to the east – combat, demonstrations, magic invocations, team practices, and testing fields. The boarding houses and eateries were located to the west and had a total of six boarding houses in all–his was one of the larger finer boarding houses–along with a variety of student ran shops. To the north were four lecture halls and three other elongated buildings serving as lodgings for the masters, and his most sought-after building, the Library, a vast tall building that towered over the lecture halls and master’s lodges.

Between the three distinctive areas were wide open spaces for the students to relax and socialize, all with tables and large trees providing ample shade.

“By the way, who is Zeeke?” having been shown around, it was the one curiosity that was left.

“The gate seer?” Mirat replied confused at the question.

“Earlier a girl called it a ‘thing’. I did not see it for myself and have been curious about it since.” He clarified his question.

“Zeeke… hmm… I guess you can call it a summon spirit? It’s been with the academy for as long as anyone could remember. He is usually docile, but last year, one of the lord was here making a huge case about why his son got expelled and attempted to enter the academy grounds. No one knew where Zeeke came from, but he suddenly appeared and thrashed the lord, breaking his collarbone and one of his leg.” Mirat seemed to have grimaced as he told that later part about Zeeke.

“Was there any repercussion?”

“No. the lord had been warned plenty of times and everyone knew that trespassing into the academy without a mark of admission were grounds for an attack. In my opinion, the lord got off easy. There are stories of Zeeke straight out dismembering intruders in the earlier days of the academy.” The fear was showing in Mirat’s face now.

“I see.” Intrigued by what he just heard, Kaidus wanted to see this ‘Zeeke’ even more.

Having returned to the vicinity of the admissions building,

“Thank you for showing me around. It would have taken me significantly more time without your help.” Kaidus gave Mirat a respectful bow.

“Not at all.” Mirat shook his head signaling it was nothing. “I best be heading off for now, my next class will start soon. Need to return to my room and gather some materials. Nice to have met you Kaidus, I’ll be seeing you around.” Mirat held out his hand.

After the handshake, Kaidus was back to wandering the academy grounds alone.

Mirat Klivus, of House Klivus. Kaidus had learned that the young man was of low nobility within the 11^th ward. His great grandfather had served as a commanding knight in one of the previous great wars, and the king at that time had elevated his status to that of a noble for his exemplary services. Humility and the humble origin of their house was something that Mirat took pride in.

It was probably this pride and humility that brought him to talk to Kaidus in the first place.

Being the sole child in the Klivus household to have been gifted with mana ever since his great grandfather, the family had used most of their resources to send him to Zorin Academy. His lack of abilities was something that greatly troubled him.

Hearing that Kaidus, a commoner child had somehow entered himself into the elite school for nobles, it was something that Mirat greatly respected.

‘There are those like him too.’ The thought that not everyone at the academy would be against him, a young upstart, gave him a measure of comfort.

Of course, many others had judged him for the clothes he wore and possibly his association with Mirat, but those were minor issues and did bother him.

More students and some teachers looked to him curiously as he made his way to the one place he wanted to indulge himself in: the Library.

 

—

 

Sitting in Intermediate Arkane studies – his first class of the day, Kaidus was reprocessing the title of books he had been looking through yesterday in his head. Sorting them from: what he wanted to read the most, to the least.

Luckily for him, the new term had just started not too long ago – around the time of the kalligor incident – and the classes were just starting to fall into the actual studies.

Many of the students had laughed and ridiculed him when he entered the classroom, but upon seeing the instructor welcome him, introducing him, and gesturing him to a seat, the room had gone quiet.

“…into your very beings. It is an ever changing and infinite dimension where the primal aspects of our powers are from. The amount of mana required to invoke a single incantation differentiates depending on the user. The control over their mana, their innate abilities, their affinity with the mana in their body, and the primal mana of Lagus.”

The master was lecturing the class about the benefits of being able to utilize one’s mana to the utmost. Although the lecture was reiterating a lot of things that would be taught in the beginners course, the intermediate class was where students start learning the concepts behind drawing the ancient and primordial mana from the spirit world of Lagus.

“Two people of the same capacities but different skills will not be able to recreate the same phenomenon. The one with better control and affinity will able to solidify their magic and bring it out, using only the appropriate amount of mana required, while the one with less ability, control, and affinity will have leakage in their infusion. But while that may be the case with individual capacities, the raw mana that you can draw from Lagus is on a different level. That is one of the reasons why this academy only teaches such things to those who have proven themselves worthy of tapping into the unrestrained pool that is Lagus.” The teacher made eye contacts with all the students in the room before continuing.

“Many up and becoming mages have fallen to the lure that is the power of Lagus. While the raw power makes you near invincible, and a single drop of it could perform miracles equating to a vast measure of your own capacities, it is like a venom that slowly corrodes your mind. Without proper training and discipline, you will end up dead. Or worst, corrupted and your mind lost forever.”

“…” the room was silently listening.

“That being the case, there is an alternative. What is this alternative? Jace.” the instructor questioned one of the students.

“The binding of a spirit to your name from Lagus. By using the spirit as an intermediary, you can purify the raw power with the spirit as a conduit, thus allowing for safe control and use.” The boy promptly replied.

“What is the approximate percentage of usable mana?” The master replied back to Jace.

“Depending on the spirit rank, anywhere from 10 percent to 30 percent.”

“Good. What are the different types of spirits that are possible to contract with? Dorine.”  Pointing toward a girl of around twenty.

“The Nuits of Light, Rhas of Shadows, Frems of Fire, Vanu of Water, Vix of Lightning, Das of Earth, Kels of Metal, Hirces of Nature, and the Phraes who are not of the spirit world.” The girl Dorine answered eloquently and gave a wide grin when she added the last ones.

“Well done. Certainly, although unable to be used as conduits, the Phraes are spirits and can also be contracted.”

“Each spirit enhances the affinity with magic of the same elements and bolster one’s own magic. With the nine elemental types from the spirit world, there are also nine elemental lords who rule over the spirits–”

Kaidus stirred in his chair.

“Master Gorzon, I believe those are just legends? No one has ever been able to summon an Elemental Lord.” A student interrupted.

“Faden, how many times have I told you to stop interrupting me in class?” the master asked in an affable tone.

“This makes it the 24^th time since the beginning of the term.” The student Faden answered with a grin.

“You pesky brat. Yes, it is as you’ve said. No one has been able to summon an elemental lord, the only knowledge we have about them are records from eons ago recalling the last few great mages who brought terror and tyranny upon the world with the elemental lords at their sides. Even being a legend, such information can inspire mages and propel them into new plateaus, so do not dismiss such information.” The master scolded Faden.

“As I was saying before that untimely interruption, there are nine elemental lords who rule over the spirits. Unlike the other spirits who are a conduit, the spirit lords themselves are pure embodiments of mana and from the records, the loss during the purification process does not exist with these lords. Now, how about that for legends?” the master inquired towards Faden.

‘…’ Memories of the past flashed in Kaidus’ mind.

 

A lavish dinner table filled with a range of delicacies and entrees. Sautee qorkos with leafy plants stuffed into it, fried leg of dronnons cooked to perfection giving an aroma of salt and herbs, freshly picked and boiled laraze plants that were chopped into fine slices along with a dip to accommodate them, and plenty of other mouthwatering dishes littered the dinner table.

Sitting in the honorary guest seat directly across from Lord Gelrin, was Kaidus. Lord Huin was directly to the right of the old man followed by his son Vion. To the old man’s left sat Kellian and her daughter Naleen. Seated to Kaidus’s left and right were Horan, Thirn, Daaro, and a couple of the other older knights who had been called to join the dinner.

Not being an official dinner but one among friends and close acquaintances, the need for customs had all but been thrown under the table.

There were many conversations passed back and forth amongst the participants of the dinner, and many had inquired about Kaidus, after Lord Gelrin had introduced the partakers. The lord had made sure to give the reasons as to why he was entertaining a young child–a child he was sponsoring for Zorin Academy. Minus the parts about what occurred in the plaza with the Kalligor.

Kaidus had summarized for the curious: where his family came from before settling in Ferrent, what his family did, his father’s job, his mother’s job, how many people in his family, and so forth. Making small talks here and there while also inquiring into details about the other party’s situations.

“Your father is Troyle the runner up for the competition three years ago?! Coincidences sure are an amazing thing indeed. Did you know he defeated me in the semi-finals?” an older knight exclaimed from beside Kaidus.

“To have made it to the semi-finals, Lord Bulwicent must be quite the admirable knight in his younger days. My father must have gotten lucky.”  He replied in acknowledgement to the old knight.

“KYAAKAKAKKAKA! Indeed! INDEED!!! If I had been 5 years young- no even 3 years younger I would been quite the challenge for that youngster! I was already an accomplished knight when our Lord Knight Commander here had just taken his oaths!” the knight boasted while laughing heartily.

A Lord from the 12^th ward, the old knight was visiting friends in the 11^th ward. A jovial and free spirit who had laid down his swords last year due to old age. The man was someone who spent his free time traveling from ward to ward catching up on old friends.

“Ah, so your father’s Lord Varath’s body guard. I never see Varath without a shadow nowadays. I see.” Another of the knights spoke in realization.

While customary banters were thrown and exchanged back and forth, the quite girl who had been sitting at her mother’s side suddenly spoke up quizzically. “Grandfather, what is the punishment for a student of the Ravon house attacking a guest?”

“What’s this?” Gelrin looked at his granddaughter in surprise.

Kaidus turned to look at the girl. Upon seeing her, she was staring right back at him, hatred in her eyes. ‘Don’t tell me… this is because I denied her accusation earlier?’

Daaro’s posture went straight up, his back as straight as a rod fearing the incoming storm.

Lord Huin’s mouth started tipping upward into a vile smile.

“We’ve already got that sorted out Naleen, don’t agitate your grandfather.” Kellian chided to her daughter.

“No mother, we have not gotten it sorted out.” She stated calmly to her mother. “Again, what happens to a student if they were attacking a guest?” Naleen inquired, looking at her grandfather.

“Well, if it was serious, the student would be stripped of his rank and would have to start over from the basics again for a year.” The old man answered, a twinkle of comprehension surging in his eyes.

Naleen turned to Kaidus. “What if he was your HONORARY guest, and instead of being assaulted by a single student, was rounded up by a group and beaten to the ground?” Naleen hypothesized with as much venom as she could muster in her words, and in her eyes. Her emphasis on the word HONORARY pretty much drove home who she had been coyly insinuating about.

Turning to look at Kaidus, the old commander’s eyebrows twisted in amusement. “Really? Something happened?” Lord Gelrin inquired.

“It was nothing to worry about sir, just some childish playfulness.” Kaidus relayed his opinion of the matter.
Most of the eyes around the dinner table perked up at the proclamation of ‘childish playfulness’ while looking at the child who spoke the words.

“He knocked you to the ground!” Naleen cried out.

“I missed a step in the form he was teaching me, and fell on my behind. That was what you saw.” A calm and collected answer to her outcry.

“Y-y-YOU COWARD! And you call yourself a man?!” She cried out, pointing a finger at him. “I-IF you want to be a knight, stand up for yourself! I hate people who can’t even fight back! Isn’t that why you’re here?” She screamed at Kaidus. “Tell him Vion! You always said a great knight is someone who never lets others push them around!”

“That’s enough Naleen!” Kellian ordered.

“But Mother!”

“Please excuse us everyone, it seems my daughter is feeling a bit under the weather. I shall escort her back to her room.” Kellian stated. “And Kaidus, please forgive her. She is just a child.” she lowered her head to plea his forgiveness. Recognition of him as a child did not register.

“No offense was taken, please raise your head.” He quickly replied.

“MOTHER!” Naleen cried out again.

With a curt bow to those at the dinner table, Lady Kellian promptly left, leading an angry daughter in tow.

“COWARD!!” Naleen called out as she exited the dining hall.
“HAHAAHAHAH! What a feisty one you got there, Huin!” a remark from one of the knights.

“Honestly, I don’t know who she takes after…” Huin replied, beaten soundly by what just happened.

“Looks like her future husband will be in trouble.” Lord Bulwicent joked with a huge grin on his face.

*AHEM!* Lord Gelrin cleared his throat. With his granddaughter gone, he quickly apologized to those at the dinner table as the banquet resumed. “So… you were accosted by a group of boys, and beaten?” Lord Gelrin spoke to Kaidus, disbelief in his voice.

“Nothing that horrific.” Kaidus replied nonchalantly, while stabbing another piece of sliced meat with his fork before bringing it to his plate.

“If I may ask, why did you not fight back?” Lord Huin spoke.

“There was no need.” A simple reply as he dipped another piece of the laraze into the sauce before bringing it to his mouth.

Lord Huin’s previous smile seem to have taken on a frown. He was still unable to gauge the child’s abilities with his own eyes. ‘Did he know we were there?’ Huin pondered.

“KAYAKAKAK!!! BOY! You sure are something! Surrounded by a group of sword students and there was no need to retaliate? You really are brave, or was it your fear taking hold?” Lord Bulwicent happily threw out what most of them were thinking.

“There was no need as they posed no threat to me.” Kaidus answered looking at the old lord.

“KYAHAHHAHAH!! KYAHAHAH!!! Thank you Gelrin. Thank you for inviting me to dinner. This is the best thing I’ve heard in a long time!”  Lord Bulwicent laughed.

“Don’t lie. I heard Ranor knocked you to the ground. That you could barely get up.” Vion spoke with anger in his voice.

‘I see. He must know the other boys, seeing they’re around the same age.’ “Yes of course, that was the case.” He did not want to demean the others in front of Vion, in case this escalates. He opted to hold his tongue and secede to the statement.

“BWAHHAHAHHAHAHHA!! HA… ha… what a good joke boy.” Lord Gelrin mentioned toward Vion. “How about the truth Kaidus? I know you are trying to protect those who assaulted you. Would you be willing to part with the truth if I vow that ‘I Lord Gelrin Ravon, on my honor, will not punish them’?” The Lord asked, his face was red from his outburst of laughter.

“I saw Ranor’s kick and had shielded myself before contact.” A swift and pointed reply.

“Then why did you not retaliate?!” Vion voiced from the side, anger and jealousy rife in his words.

“I did not want to hurt them.” A stoic reply combined with a gaze that overwhelmed Vion and sat him back down in his chair.

Everyone besides Lord Huin, Thirn, Horan, and the Lord Knight Commander shifted in their seat at the child’s tone toward Vion.

Silence prevailed for a matter of minutes as everyone attempted to let the tense atmosphere blow over.

“Well then, please excuse me from the table. I wish to pack up and ready for my trip to the academy tomorrow.” Kaidus spoke up, parting the silence.

“Oh, yes, of course. It sure has gotten late, thank you for joining me tonight. If you need anything, please be sure to send someone.” Lord Gelrin answered.

With Kaidus excused, the dinner came to a close, and the others started parting.

 

…

 

The sky was darkening, and Kaidus returned to his room. Taking off the clothes he had worn to the dinner, he was only in his shorts. He had taken off his clothes to prepare for what comes next.

Sitting back down on the ground, he took a minute to straighten his mind and body. His mana flowed like blood in his veins, roaring to be tested.

Having synched both body and soul with meditation, he manifested a small sword of light in his right hand. He calmed his mind and rid it of any thoughts.

First form – Rezut – he angled his small body giving himself a low center of gravity, ready to counter or parry any attacks from his sides and front.

An easy enough form, which was just a stance for retaliation.

Second form – Thoa – his sword arm extended forward like lightning, a single striking thrust, but three quick hits altogether. First cut slices upward, second following the same trajectory of the first one but in reverse, and third one ending with a thrust.

Try as he might, the attack only struck twice unable to keep up with the speed of the triple strike.

Third form – Hing – a quick lunge, unperceivable by the naked eyes, with a horizontal slash, Or a cross slash with two blades.

He succeeded after a couple times trying to readjust to the speed and infusion required for the footwork, but his childish body had lacked the coordination of where he was going.

Fourth form – Plai – the sword slashes in an overhead arc in front of him and swings backward along with his right hand, his body twists and does a diagonal slash to his flank, followed by a punch from his left hand and a quick backwards round house kick using the momentum of the spin. 

A simple set of moves using the weight of the sword and motion to spin him around to drive in the other attacks. He completed the form without problem.

Fifth form – Alvue – a single strike from a standing position. The body is relaxed until the instant the devastating strike is performed. Versatile and able to cut at any angle.

 He performed various attacks from a relaxed position to get the feelings back.

Sixth form – Sonis – The final form. The sword is thrown, as if folding together the spaces between, he vanishes and appears where his sword is.

Kaidus throws the sword at the door and catches it before it could impale the door, striking his mana infused hands a couple times before getting the feel for the skill.

Six forms that he had mastered in his quest for vengeance a lifetime ago. They were now a constant reminder of the irredeemable actions he had taken.

He had lived this new life without them, but the earlier event had put him into a different mindset.

Being in a child’s body, he had poured mana into his body and enhanced it to a degree that he would be able to emulate the forms, although not all of them had been performed up to standard.

Having completed his former forms, he moved onto the one’s he had been watching earlier.

There were 8 new forms that he had been watching earlier and were eager to test out. These were the real reasons why he had decided to train his forms. Seeing the students train, he was reminded of the tranquility it had brought him when he was learning.

The ability to close his mind to everything else but the blade in his hands and the sound of it slicing through the air. Parry, counter, attack, defense, blade-lock, high rising attacks, low covers, disarming, killing blows, and everything. Nothing could compare to the fluid movements of the body as it swung around the sword as if dancing along with the Phraes.

But being without training for years and in a child’s body, his body was unconditioned to the strenuous training, and quickly tired out, forcing him to go to bed.

 

—

 

“I can’t believe him! I tried to help him and he makes me out to be a liar! And in front of Grandfather and Father!” Naleen angrily ranted in her room to her mother.

The betrayal of her rescue had angered her deeply, and even after finding out that the child was a guest of her grandfather, her irritable mood had not abstain, hence the outburst during dinner.

“Calm down Naleen. I was there, I saw. He must have had his own circumstances if he was willing to label my cute little baby a liar.” Kellian softly hugged Naleen trying to goad her to an understanding. “Did you notice? All of the other boys ran off as soon as they saw me, but he stood his ground and clarified his position. Not many can do that.”

“But! They were mistreating him!” Naleen declared.

“Be that as it may, he was able to put up with it. He never even brought up the issue during dinner until you stormed into their conversations. Don’t you think you went overboard with what you called him?”
“Hmph! He went overboard! He humiliated me and made me out to be a liar!” she retorted.

“You humiliated yourself by being a crass young lady.” Kellian spoke icily, unwilling to spoil her daughter. “Think about it. He was a guest of honor protecting the dignity of the students, and you spoke out of place. Who do you think your grandfather would frown upon?” Kellian added.

“…”

“I want you to apologize to him tomorrow before he leaves, and tell him how sorry you are for calling him a coward.”

“…”

“Do you hear me, Naleen Shirce Ravon?”

“Uuu…. FINE!” She answered angrily, the thought of apologizing to that boy was infuriating and humiliating in itself.

 

—

 

The Lord Knight Commanded had brought it upon himself to see Kaidus off early in the morning.

He was instructing Kaidus about what to do once he arrived at the Academy and double checking to make sure everything would go smoothly for the boy. Even having Thirn ride on ahead to let the academy know that Kaidus would be arriving that day, and to expect him.

Unexpectedly, Kellian and Naleen came out of the estate. Both were dressed and proper for the occasion.

“Go on Naleen. He is leaving.” Kellian told her daughter

A reluctant Naleen edged forward to where Kaidus and her Grandfather were standing—by the carriage.

She walked up to Kaidus and lowered her head.

“I apologize for calling you a c-coward. Mother told me you were doing it for the sake of the students. She also said anyone who could look her in the eyes and talk to her as equals, was no coward.” Naleen spoke, but without an ounce of apologetic tone.

“W-what is this!?” Lord Gelrin was flabbergasted.

‘Oh? So she realized something’

“Thank you. I too apologize for my actions. I did not mean to disregard your help yesterday. The situation did not call for drastic measures, it was the only way I saw to proceed.”  He replied.

“Eh?” Naleen looked up in confusion.

“Please accept this as thanks for your kind considerations.”

Kaidus held out a hand, and the morning mist gathered above his palm. The mist then coalesced and formed into a tiny six petal flower that he had seen during the long trip to Ferrent. The misty flower then started crystalizing and after fully solidifying, fell onto the palm of his hand.

“It is a danach flower. They grow in the forests along the road here to Ferrent.” Kaidus explained with a smile on his face.
“Thank… you…” Naleen said as she took the crystal flower and moved back to where her mother stood.

As he was about to get onto the carriage, the old lord spoke out to him.

“I never did ask you, what were you doing in the plaza, and why did you save me that day?”

“I was there just to watch the demonstration like everyone else. I saw how you took charge prioritizing evacuation of the people before your knights, I saw your single handed engagement against the Kalligor, and your selfless sacrifice for someone you had never met. The world would be lesser if a great man such as Lord Knight Commander Gelrin were to lose his life.” Kaidus replied to the old lord. With a wide smile on his face, he entered the carriage and left the Ravon Estate.

 

—

 

After the carriage departed, another old man came out of the estate.

“It looks like it is time for me to bid you farewell too my friend.”

“Leaving already?”

“Only for a while. Your place is like a vacation home to me. I’ll always be back.” Lord Bulwicent said while grinning.

“Well then, not too soon, I hope. Bring me better news next time, anything but the unruly rumors like the ones this time around.” Lord Gelrin spoke back affably.

The two men watched as the carriage exited the walled gates of the Ravon estate, and watched until the carriage disappeared.

“Gelrin. Tell me, why has this child fascinated you so much? You told me you were merely sponsoring him, but everything so far has been too extravagant. What exactly are you withholding from me?” The old Lord Bulwicent asked the Knight Commander.

“Would you believe me if I told you that, that child killed the Kalligor a while ago during the Knightly demonstration?”

“What? Surely you jest!?”

“No at all Faderan, I’ve seen his display of magic with my own eyes. Even earlier, he created a crystal flower out of mist. I could not fathom how he does what he does. He is the real thing. It is as if he lives and breathes magic…”

“You can’t possibly mean!?” Faderan was trying to connect the subtle hints in Gelrin’s words with various events, legends, puzzles, and rumors in his head.

“Yes… He is exactly what we have only ever heard of in legends… it is my wish to see him wherever fate would take him.” Lord Gelrin spoke solemnly

“Impossible… A Dvitus?” The jovial lord had a stern look on his face, as if witnessing the coming of a new era.

Making sure that his belongings had arrived in his room, Kaidus decided to look around the estate.

The manor had been made out of cut stones melded together by magic unlike the buildings in the 3^rd ward. The manor itself looked like four different structures connected together by arched passages, and had a large courtyard in between the four different wings. From what Fon had told him, the west wing was for guests, the north wing was where the Ravon family resides, the south wing for the knights and those who were currently staying in the manor to train, and the east wing was where the servants and guards’ quarters are.

Having walked around the manor for a good while, he eventually ended up in the training area of the courtyard.

Many young students were repeating sword forms while a few of the older and more skillful ones sparred in pairs under Horan’s watch.

While observing,

“Hey!” a voice called out to him. Turning to look, he saw a tall teenage boy with bluish hair entering the courtyard along with a few other boys of the same age, each of them holding a wooden training sword and shield. Looking to be around 15 years of age, the group of boys stalked towards him.

“Yes?” he called out as the boy approached.

“Haven’t seen you before, are you new?” the boy questioned with an annoyed look on his face.

“You could say that.” Kaidus replied as he turned back to watch the training.

Stepping in front of Kaidus, the boy looked down at Kaidus who was half his size.

“What are you doing in here?” the boy questioned.

“Watching.” He answered without moving his eyes, as if to stare right though the older boy’s body.

“Servants are not allowed into the courtyard unless attending to someone. You should know that already.”

The implication was all well and true enough, even in his best clothing, Kaidus looked out of place. The older boy must have thought him to be a new servant boy and sought to remind him.

“Sorry, but I am not a servant.” Kaidus replied.

“If you are not a servant, then I am not the First son of Lord Lucos, and heir of house Drenolh.” The older boy replied with a wry smile as his friends laughed at the quip.

Not wanting to escalate the situation, “I apologize. If my standing here has somehow acquired your ire, I will dismiss myself.” As he turns to leave, another boy blocked his path.

“Looks like little servant boy here thinks very highly of himself.” The new boy mocked, his eyes laughing as two more boys blocked the sides.

“I would hate to distract you from your training. Please allow me to dismiss myself.”

“You had been watching the training quite intently, how about joining us for ours?” the tall first boy asked with a wicked smile on his face.

“Sorry again, but I must refuse.” Kaidus replied, his eyes unyielding.

“Guys come on, he’s just a kid.” Someone chimed in from the group of boys.

“That’s right, he is just a kid. We need to teach him how to protect himself so that bad people doesn’t hurt him.” The first boy said, twisting the unknown boy’s good intentions.

“How about we go over there and I show you the proper way to use a sword?” the boy pointed at a vacant area beside a row of small azolus tree segmenting the training area and the garden.

“Ranor, come on you don’t need to do this. Look at him, he’s just a kid.” The unknown boy chipped in again.

“I don’t care if he is a kid, he needs to be taught a lesson in propriety. Servants need to know their place.” The first boy Ranor spoke, his plan clear for everyone to see.

His path blocked off and with no other way out, Kaidus allowed himself to be shepherd by the circle of teens to where the boy Ranor had indicated.

 

—

 

Daaro had finished an exercise in his room, and had come out to the courtyard to spar with some of the students. Entering the courtyard, he saw a group of students corralling a young boy to an open area of the training ground. Upon seeing that the boy was Kaidus, he was suddenly filled with anxiety. Taking a step forward to stop them before something happens, a hand grasps him from behind. “Lord Huin!” turning, he saw the person who had grabbed his shoulder.

“That must be the boy my father had half of the knights searching for.” Lord Huin replied, his voice calm.

“Yes, and we must stop them before they get hurt.”

“They?”

“All of them. I’ve seen for myself what the boy could do. If we don’t stop this, it could only end up badly.” Daaro declared, his concern showing.

“Is that so? Fascinating… How about we just watch for now?”

“Lord Huin, this is not the time!”

“Daaro, Let us watch for now.” The sword master commanded.

 

—

 

Surrounded and with his back to the trees, there was no way out.

“Give him your sword Donnick, can’t be having him crying that I didn’t allow him a weapon.” The boy Ranor told one of the others.

“It’s too big for him.” Donnick protested.

“Just give it to him, it’ll be a quick ‘duel’.” Ranor replied, a smirk on his face.

As the boy came forward to give Kaidus the practice sword, Kaidus refused to take it.

“Take the sword before I bloody you to the point where your mum won’t even recognize you!” Ranor closed in on him and made the threat.

Without flinching, Kaidus stared at Ranor, unwilling to submit.

“I will ask you again. Please allow me to dismiss myself.” His tone was cold and unfazed by the boy’s intimidating stature.

Anger flared in Ranor’s eyes and his leg suddenly extended out toward Kaidus.

*UMPH!!* The kick squared his chest and knocked him down on the ground. Having neglected to avoid it, he had guarded himself with mana instead and pretended to fall.

“…” Murmuring could be heard amongst the boys surrounding them.

Ranor stepped forward and grabbed Kaidus’ shirt. Pulling Kaidus up, he brought their faces closer. “Know your place! You bow your head when I talk to you!” Ranor roared.

“Uhk!”, “C’mon. Let’s-” More clamoring from the surrounding boys, then suddenly-

“What is going on here?!” A girl’s voice thundered far above Ranor’s own voice.

Looking behind him, the color drained from Ranor’s face.

Kaidus found the owner of the voice: a young girl around 10 years of age. Brownish curly hair that went down to her chest and tied into a side ponytail as is the current Ferrent fashion. She wore a gray dress with strips of white with inlaid golden marks embroidering the skirt while red and black patterns sat upon the upper part of the dress from the torso to the arms. She had a childish face, but held herself like a lady–posture-wise.

From the looks of it, she had been strolling along the garden adjacent when she heard the ruckus.

‘So that was why they were all making noises. They were trying to keep her out.’ Kaidus thought to himself.

“Young lady, what did I tell you about running off like that?!” A woman came from behind, yelling at the young girl before stopping abruptly at the scene in front of them. A beautiful woman, she was in her prime and had long brown hair while wearing a dress as elegant as herself.

Judging from her dress and how she spoke to the young girl, she was someone of status within this estate. Some of the boys that had encircled him were starting to flee, while those who had been training were starting to look in their direction. Ranor’s face had gone pale.

“M-miss Kellian and Miss Naleen!” Ranor promptly let go of Kaidus’s shirt and distanced himself before making an awkward bow towards the intruders.

Kaidus also made a bow himself toward the two. Miss Kellian Ravon, formerly known as Kellian Halsond of the Halsond noble house from the 12^th ward. She is the wife of Lord Huin Ravon, and the mother of Vion whom I had met the other day, and from the looks of it, also the mother of this young girl. He recalled to himself, having investigated the Ravon house prior to coming to the 11^th ward.

“But mother! Ranor was bullying the new servants again!” the young girl argued back toward her mother.

‘Again? Is this a recurring problem?’ He thought curiously.

“Exactly what was going on here Ranor?” Lady Kellian asked with a note of irritation in her voice. She then scanned the remnants of the boys who had not fled.

First looking to the silent group of boys unwilling to talk, Ranor then slowly opened his mouth. “I… we saw this servant boy here idling in the training yard, and just wanted to tell him to get back to work and that this area was off limits for servants.” Having regained his tongue, Ranor tried to explain his situation.

“You lie Ranor! You were beating on him! I saw him fall down from the other side!” Naleen voiced her outcry.

‘It looks like she has some semblance of justice. I wonder if she gets it from her grandfather.’ Kaidus mused to himself.

“Naleen, be-” quiet. Was what Kellian wanted to say, but whilst looking at the circle of boys, she spied two suspects just watching from the sidelines near the courtyard entrance. A smile appeared on her husband’s face when he caught her eyes, while Daaro’s face was filled with trouble. Cutting herself off, she turned her attention to the presumably servant boy. “I apologize for what has occurred under my home. Although, please be advised that servants are not allowed into the courtyard unless attending to someone or asked to by one of the lords.” She spoke apologetically and reprehensively to the boy.

“Worry not my lady, I had express permission to wander about the estate by Lord Gelrin.” He replied without an ounce of indignity.

All the boys around started moving away at the words that had just been spoken, and Ranor dropped his head.

Naleen stood there confused as to why her grandfather would allow a servant boy such privileges.

“Oh?” Kellian’s eyebrows tipped in curiosity. Looking closer, the boy was not one of the many servants in their employ. His clothes were of the commoner standards and his age matched the description she had heard from her husband: the wonder boy that her father in law had been throwing all the resources at his disposal to find. Suddenly a smile like that of her husband’s appeared on her face and she understood the occasion. “Well then, may I ask again what was going on here?” She looked toward the frozen Ranor, waiting for him to lift his head and give her a different explanation.

After failing to answer, she turned to the two remaining boys who had not fled. They were also silent.

“There is nothing to worry about my lady, I was watching the training and seeing my fascination, Ranor had only wanted to help teach me a few of the forms to quench my curiosity.” Instead of an explanation from Ranor, Kaidus was the one who had spoken up.

Ranor’s face tilted upward for a second as if unable to believe what he was hearing.

“I see. Then I will question this no further. Come Naleen, let us go.” Kellian told her daughter.

“But mother!”

“Quiet Naleen, you heard him. He said they were just practicing. Would you like to apologize for barging in on their practice?”

“HMPH! Fine! I’ll leave then!” The young girl exclaimed after staring daggers into Kaidus.

Having seen them off, Kaidus wordlessly excused himself.

 

—

 

“YOU IDIOTS ALL OF YOU!!” Daaro screamed, attracting the attention of the other students training.

Lowering his voice, he continued.

“All of the servants know the rules. Why do you think one of them would be in the courtyard?! DO YOU WANT TO DIE?!” near the Azolus trees, Daaro had contained the three who remained there after Kaidus had left and was giving them a lecture.

‘You would do well to watch your tongue around of him’, what master Gelrin had just told him still resounded in his head. He was adamant about putting the same thing into the heads of these fools.

“Die? Big brother Daaro, you must be kidding! We didn’t even know he was a guest of Lord Gelrin! I’ve never heard of the lord beheading anyone for wrongful treatment of his guests.” Ranor argued back. Although not blood related, being older and a student like them, everyone in their age group called Daaro big brother.

*THWACK!* Daaro’s fist hammered onto Ranor’s head.

“You really are an idiot! You think the lord was the problem?! That child was the one who killed the Kalligor in the plaza, you dolt! Why else would the lord have him here as a guest?!! Consider yourselves lucky that he decided not to retaliate!”

Fear ran through the three boys. They had been there at the demonstration, but when the evacuation call came out, they had quickly rounded up the students and hid in one of the buildings. Only coming out after the crisis had passed.

They all saw the plaza afterwards, and many of them had thrown up their lunch at the brutality that had transpired. Dead knights, injured people, burnt places in the plaza, and of course the blood and gore across a side of the plaza.

“I knew it was bad news, I knew we should have stopped. I even told you Ranor!” A boy spoke up accusingly. He had been one of the two boys who had called for the conclusion of the charade earlier.

“Shut up Rint! How could you have known!?” Ranor angrily retorted back, his fear overcame by the anger at his friend.

“Didn’t you notice how he spoke to you Ranor? He was giving off an air, it was… it was unlike any that the servants would dare… He was not afraid of you Ranor or any of us!” The boy called Rint replied, his fear plain to see.

“How would that have mattered?! We all thought he was a new servant!”

“SHUT UP!” Daaro yelled at them. “Although only known to a few right now, know that the child will be attending Zorin Academy. If that is not enough to get it through those thick skulls of yours, the fact that Lord Gelrin is behind his sponsorship and holds him in extremely high esteem should. You fools will do well to remember that the house of Ravon is behind the child!” Daaro Glared at them.
“Also, know that even if you all had perished there, none of us would have been able to do anything about it. That was the situation you fools had gotten yourselves in.” Daaro had thrown that in there to scare them, but thinking about it himself, the thought frightened him. If the child had really decided to do to them, what he did to the Kalligor, would either he or Lord Huin have been able to stop it? Not a chance.

He grimaced at the thought.

“““…”””  The realization of escaping death dawned on them and all three were having some sort of panic.

It was like the realization of having stepping on a venomous serpent’s tail without any shoes on, only to have the serpent slither away; instead of the serpent turning around and biting the foot. Or playing around in a Fraz Bear’s den and coming out unharmed because you had no idea it was a den, and the bear had been asleep.

His enthusiasm for practice lost in the throngs of anxiety attacks, Daaro decided it was better to leave the younger students to think about what they had gotten themselves into.

 

—

 

Having caused an unwanted spectacle, Kaidus was quietly meditating in his room.

Meditation was something he had picked up towards the end of his previous life to cope with unwanted memories, but now it was something to enhance his mind and affinity with the ever-surging mana within him.

*KNOCK* “Master Kaidus?” a female voice called to him from outside of the room.

“Yes?” he replied promptly, having broken out of his meditative state.

“Dinner has been prepared. The Lord would like for you to join him in the North Wing at his table.”

“Understood. Please give me a minute.”

He quickly got up from his sitting posture on the ground, and put on one of the two more presentable pair of clothes Adalina had prepared for him. Opening the door, he saw a servant waiting on him.

“Please lead the way.” He directed.