With the combined might of his enhancements, Kinetic Burst propelling him forward like a phantom, and his naturally high attributes, William became an unstoppable force. The prince, despite his royal lineage and privileged training, was utterly outmatched.
William's speed drew gasps from the audience. He moved with a blurring swiftness that defied expectations, appearing before the prince in the blink of an eye, his sword a hair's breadth from the royal throat.
"Yield," William commanded, his voice devoid of emotion.
The prince, his pride wounded, refused to surrender. He gripped his staff, his fingers dancing as he attempted to weave a counterattack.
"I apologize for this," William said, a hint of regret in his voice. But his actions were swift and decisive.
With 52 points in Strength, amplified by Enhanced Strength, his power was monstrous. He unleashed a precisely targeted punch to the prince's gut, the impact echoing through the silent gymnasium. Even holding back, the blow was devastating.
The prince crumpled, his staff clattering to the ground. He lay unconscious in the dust of the arena. A concerned professor rushed forward to examine him.
"He's fine," the professor announced after a brief examination. "Just needs some rest."
William exited the ring, deactivating his spells with a flick of his wrist. The runes faded from his skin, his muscles returning to their normal size. He approached Altair, a subtle smirk playing on his lips.
"What did you think?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement.
Altair, overwhelmed by the sheer dominance of William's victory, could only gape in response.
The atmosphere in the gymnasium crackled with a newfound respect for William. Whispers followed him as he moved through the crowd, the other participants and onlookers casting awed glances in his direction.
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His victory over the prince had shattered their preconceived notions, proving that strength and skill could emerge from unexpected places.
"I told you he was strong!" the noble William had defeated in last exam boasted to his companions. "That's why he beat me!"
The remaining duels proceeded, but the excitement had waned. William's stunning performance had set a high bar, leaving the other participants struggling to capture the attention of the audience.
Word of William's feat spread like wildfire throughout the academy. He had become a legend in the making, his name on everyone's lips.
As predicted, no one was disqualified from this stage of the exam. Even the prince, despite his lackluster performance, retained his place. William couldn't help but feel a twinge of cynicism.
'Of course he wouldn't be disqualified,' William thought, rolling his eyes. 'He's royalty.'
The final stage of the exam loomed, the one that would shatter the dreams of many and pave the path to glory for a select few.
With only thirty spots available and sixty hopefuls remaining, the competition was fierce. But a sudden announcement from Headmaster Tholfnir threw the applicants into disarray.
"Regarding the available places," Tholfnir began, his voice resonating with an unexpected gravity, "a change has become necessary. Instead of thirty, we now have only fifteen spots available for this year's intake."
A collective gasp arose from the crowd. Anxiety etched itself onto every face, the weight of the announcement pressing down on their hopes.
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"Headmaster," a young woman's voice called out, trembling slightly, "why were the spots reduced so drastically? Could you please explain?"
Tholfnir's smile held a hint of apology, but his eyes remained guarded. "I had a rather...urgent meeting yesterday," he revealed, "and the decision was made to limit enrollment. This is not unique to our academy; other institutions are facing similar restrictions." He paused, his gaze sweeping across the sea of anxious faces. "As for the reasons behind this sudden change...that, I'm afraid, I cannot divulge at this time."
The weight of Tholfnir's words settled upon the applicants, a stark reminder of the fierce competition they faced. William's determination burned brighter than ever. He would not be denied his chance to enter the academy.
Tholfnir gathered the participants in the courtyard, his presence commanding their attention. "One by one, step forward," he instructed. "I shall assess your magical repertoire."
The final exam, the ultimate hurdle, was designed to gauge their ability to learn and master spells. Each spell, categorized by rank and complexity, would be assigned a point value.
Only the top fifteen scorers would earn a coveted place at the academy. This trial was a true measure of their potential, a glimpse into their future as mages.
William watched with a mix of awe and apprehension as Tholfnir effortlessly assessed each applicant, a mere touch revealing their magical knowledge. The headmaster's power was undeniable, a testament to decades of mastery. When it was William's turn, a flicker of surprise crossed Tholfnir's face, but he remained silent.
"Next," Tholfnir said, his voice betraying no hint of his thoughts.
William waited patiently as the remaining students underwent the assessment. Finally, Tholfnir addressed the group, outlining the rules of the final trial.
"You have one month to learn as many spells as possible," he explained. "An A-rank spell is worth fifty points, a B-rank spell is worth five points, and a C-rank spell earns a single point. Lower-ranked spells do not count."
The vast difference in point values reflected the difficulty of mastering higher-ranked spells. William knew firsthand the challenge of learning a B-rank skill like Kinetic Burst.
His other spells were all C-rank, mere stepping stones compared to the complexity of A-rank magic.
He had never even attempted such a feat; those spells were typically reserved for advanced students in their second or third year. ƒгeewebnovёl.com
"You will remain in the dormitories I assigned yesterday," Tholfnir continued. "Meals are provided in the dining hall three times a day, and you have full access to the library. That is where you will find the spells you seek."
The challenge was set. One month to prove their worth, to delve into the depths of magical knowledge and emerge victorious.
"However," Tholfnir added, his voice taking on a sterner edge, "you are forbidden from seeking assistance from the academy's students or professors. Should I discover any such collaboration...well, you know the consequences."
The warning hung heavy in the air. They were guests within the academy walls, not yet students entitled to guidance. William, however, had anticipated this restriction. He was confident in his ability to learn independently.
With the rules laid bare, the applicants surged towards the library, eager to begin their month-long quest for magical knowledge. Altair, his admiration evident, kept pace with William.
"You're a legend, you know," Altair said, his voice hushed. "Everyone's talking about how you stood up to the prince."
"That won't mean much if I don't secure a spot in the academy," William replied, his focus unwavering. "Let's concentrate on the task at hand."
"Right, right..." Altair agreed, his gaze already darting towards the towering bookshelves.
The library was a sight to behold. Its vastness dwarfed any William had encountered on Earth, rows upon rows of books stretching towards the vaulted ceiling.
He estimated there were at least fifty thousand volumes within its walls, perhaps even more. A treasure trove of magical knowledge awaited, and William, his thirst for power insatiable, was ready to delve into its depths.
Most applicants gravitated towards the shelves containing B and C rank spells, their choices driven by practicality and the ticking clock. William, however, craved a challenge. He wasn't interested in simply passing; he wanted to excel, to push his limits and prove his worth. A-rank spells, the domain of seasoned mages, beckoned him.
"What spells are you planning to learn?" Altair asked, his brow furrowed as he scanned the titles.
"Not sure yet," William replied, his eyes gleaming with determination, "but I do know I'm going to master an A-rank spell."
Altair's jaw dropped. "Bro, I know you're talented, maybe even a genius, but are you sure?" he sputtered. "It's not that I doubt your ability, but we only have a month! Time is our enemy."
Altair's concern was valid. Mastering high-ranking spells was a time-consuming endeavor. But William had a secret weapon: his SSS-rank Chrono Shift ability. With its time-bending power, he could accelerate his learning beyond the constraints of a normal month.
"Relax," William said with a confident grin. "Trust me. But I'll also pick up a few B-rank spells, just in case my A-rank plan goes sideways."
Altair, though still apprehensive, seemed reassured. "Alright, alright," he conceded.
The library, despite its vastness, held restricted sections. Only a designated area was accessible to the exam participants, the remaining tomes and grimoires reserved for enrolled students and faculty. Even with this limitation, the sheer volume of available spells was overwhelming.
William's fingers traced the intricate runes detailed in the [Magic Mind] tome. This A-rank spell, notorious for its difficulty, promised to elevate his mental capabilities to extraordinary levels.
A boost of 100 points in Intelligence, coupled with a 40% increase in learning speed and memory retention, was a temptation he couldn't resist. It was the perfect foundation for mastering even more complex magic.
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Altair peered over his shoulder, his expression a mix of awe and apprehension. "Bro, that's supposed to be the hardest A-rank spell out there," he cautioned. "Are you absolutely sure you want to attempt it?"
William nodded, his determination unwavering. "It seems like the ideal spell to learn first," he explained, "It will make learning everything else much easier."
"I guess," Altair conceded, a hint of doubt still lingering in his voice. "I was thinking of trying for a flight spell. They look awesome, but I know it's probably beyond my reach."
Just then, Tholfnir materialized beside them, his presence casting a long shadow across the bookshelf. William's heart skipped a beat.
"Young man," Tholfnir began, his voice grave, "there are professors within this academy who have mastered numerous A-rank spells, even S-rank spells, yet this particular one eludes them. Are you certain you wish to pursue this path?" His eyes, filled with a genuine concern, met William's. "You possess a rare talent, one I would be pleased to nurture within these walls. Choose wisely."
Tholfnir's departure left William wrestling with doubt. Professors who commanded S-rank magic couldn't master this spell? How could he, a mere novice, hope to succeed where they had failed? But the potential rewards were too enticing to ignore.
"If you want to risk it," Altair said, his voice firm, "then go for it. I trust you to make the right decision, and I'll support you either way."
"Thanks, bro," William replied, gratitude warming his chest.
He clutched the [Magic Mind] tome, its worn leather cover a promise of untold power. It was the only spell he chose. Enjoy new tales from empire
The librarian, a stern-faced woman with spectacles perched on her nose, gave him a pitying look as he checked out the book.
He received similar reactions from other students and even a few professors, their expressions a mix of concern and disbelief. The spell's notoriety was clearly widespread.
Rumors swirled about its true nature. Some whispered it was an ancient, lost technique, far surpassing the limitations of a mere A-rank spell. William's research confirmed its rarity. Only eight mages in the entire kingdom had managed to master it. Eight. And Tholfnir, the most powerful mage in the land, was one of them.
The weight of the challenge settled upon William's shoulders, a mix of apprehension and exhilaration. He held in his hands a key to unlocking extraordinary potential, a power that had eluded countless others. He would not be deterred. He would master this spell, or die trying.
William's reputation preceded him. Whispers followed him through the halls of the academy, his name echoing in hushed conversations.
"Did you hear about the guy who beat the prince?"
"Yeah, the one who chose that A-rank spell, Magic Mind? Is he insane?"
"He's going to fail for sure. Only eight mages in the entire kingdom have mastered that spell. What's he thinking?"
The prevailing sentiment was one of disbelief and mockery. William, the commoner who had dared to challenge royalty, was now seen as a foolhardy novice, destined to crumble under the weight of his ambition.
Of all the people buzzing with gossip and doubt, only Altair offered a genuine word of encouragement. "I believe in you, William," he said, clapping a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Don't let those naysayers get to you. So what if only eight people have mastered this spell? You can be the ninth and prove them all wrong!"
William, though disheartened by the negativity, felt a surge of gratitude for Altair's unwavering support. "Thanks, Altair," he replied with a grateful smile. "I appreciate that."
"Anytime," Altair said, returning the smile. "If you need anything, just let me know."
William retreated to his room, the weight of the challenge settling upon him. He placed the [Magic Mind] tome inside his backpack and activated Chrono Shift. The familiar portal shimmered into existence, offering an escape from the whispers and doubts. He stepped through, materializing in the quiet solitude of Jinra's barn.
Dawn painted the horizon with streaks of purple and orange as he opened the tome. The complexities of the spell unfolded before him, revealing its unique nature. Unlike most spells, which required activation to trigger their effects, Magic Mind was a constant, its benefits woven into the very fabric of the caster's being. This, William realized, was the source of its difficulty.
He delved deeper into the text, his heart sinking with each page. One hundred and ninety-two runes. One hundred and ninety-two intricate patterns of mana manipulation, each demanding absolute precision. Even S-rank spells contained fewer runes.
'Did someone classify this as A-rank as a joke?' William wondered, his frustration mounting. 'This must be far more advanced!'
The urge to abandon the spell gnawed at him, but he sought Jinra's wisdom before making a decision. As the old mage stirred, William approached, eager for guidance.
"Good morning, young man," Jinra greeted him, his voice raspy with sleep. "Did you rest well?"
"Jinra, I need your help with something," William confessed, his brow furrowed with worry.
Jinra, ever the gracious host, invited him in for breakfast. As they ate, William explained his predicament, revealing the [Magic Mind] tome and detailing its daunting complexities.
Jinra's eyes widened in recognition. "I know this spell," he declared, "but the version I'm familiar with is quite different. This seems...overly complicated, as if someone attempted to recreate it from memory after losing the original."
A wave of hope washed over William. Could Jinra, with his vast knowledge and experience, hold the key to mastering this elusive spell? The possibilities swirled in his mind, fueling his determination. He would conquer this challenge, with Jinra's guidance, and prove those doubters wrong.Are you sure you aren't mistaking this for another spell?" William asked, excitement in his voice. He was hoping to get Jinra's help to learn the spell faster, but if what Jinra said was true, things were going even better than he'd hoped.
Jinra read the spell again. "Uh, yes, yes. I am old but not crazy. This is the spell I know."
Many thoughts were racing through William's mind at that moment, but he just asked one thing. "Can you help me learn it in one month?"
Jinra got up from the dining chair and started pacing through the hall, both hands behind his back. "I can help you learn it, yes, but I think one month might be too short. This is not a simple spell. In fact, only a handful of people know this."
In the current state of Aethel, only eight people knew it, and apparently, it wasn't that different in ancient times. The only difference was that the spell tome was much better written. Jinra looked at William and saw his eyes fall.
"Don't look so sad, kiddo. Let's do our best so that you can learn it in one month, alright?"
It wouldn't be an easy task, and for Jinra, it would be impossible if not for William's talent for learning magic. But time was still short; therefore, they started the training right after breakfast.
Jinra searched his entire house for something, and after about an hour of searching, he came back with an ancient scroll in hand. "This is the Magic Mind I know," he said, handing the scroll to William. "Take a look."
The scroll had far less information about the spell, but most of the information there was not present in William's Magic Mind tome. It still had the 192 runes, but they were better explained and not filled with useless words.
William now agreed with Jinra. "My tome feels like someone tried to make it harder so that no one could learn it."
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Jinra nodded. "Yes, correct. This is not something new, you know," Jinra explained. "It's normal for very good spells like this one to change throughout the years. Sometimes people lose track of how the spell was originally cast, or they try to fool you with an adulterated version."
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William knew that Tholfnir or the magic academy wouldn't provide adulterated spell tomes for their students. The Magic Mind tome William had was the same one everyone else had, but if that was the case, then what happened to the original copy? Did something happen to humanity, and had they lost their knowledge?
William was certain that something had changed throughout history simply because the greatest mages of all time were in the past. After meeting Jinra, someone incredibly powerful who knew many spells, William was sure that the ancient mages were far stronger.
However, the reason for humanity's decline was still a mystery to him, something unknown that he wished to uncover in the future.
"Let's start your training then," Jinra suggested. "This is not easy, and you might not succeed, but like I said, let's try our best."
They went outside the house, into the open area to feel the fresh morning breeze and hear the distant sounds of the river and the singing birds. That brought a sense of inner peace that helped with training, or at least it seemed to.
"You know there are plenty of runes for you to master, right?" Jinra said. "192."
"Yes, I know, and the effect is always on, right? So this must make the spell much harder to learn."
Jinra confirmed, "You are right about that. Let's start with the first 50 runes, shall we?"
The spell was divided into four parts: 50 runes, 50 runes, 50 runes, and the remaining 42 runes.
Whoever created the spell believed it was a way of making it easier to learn, as the student could first learn the first 50 runes, add them to their body, and experience minor effects of the Magic Mind spell without completing it entirely.
Well, that was what the tome Jinra had explained. The one William had was not like that, and perhaps that was what made it so much harder.
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"The idea behind completing the first set of runes is to experience the minor effects of the spell," Jinra explained to him. "You know one of the effects is faster learning of other spells, right? So, you can learn the remaining parts more easily."
When the training started, William regretted choosing that spell. The runes were overcomplicated, and the first set already contained 50 for him to master! It was incredibly difficult. Jinra demonstrated the runes, creating them effortlessly.
Despite having someone to guide him, William had a hard time recreating them. That's when Jinra decided to try something different.
"Are you up to try something dangerous?" Jinra asked him.
"Something dangerous?" William repeated, stopping his practice and staring at Jinra.
Jinra nodded. "I can help you unlock the mana points inside your body, making it easier for the mana to flow. This will make it much easier for you to learn any spell. But the thing is, it's dangerous. If it fails, you could be crippled."
William wasn't a particularly brave person—most of the time, at least—and the idea of being crippled wasn't appealing. What if things went wrong? Would he ever have the chance to get his revenge?
"I'll think about it. For now, let's just keep practicing as we are."
"Sure. No problem."
They kept practicing the runes for hours. William managed to create the first five—for a short time—but that was already something. Jinra helped him in any way he could, whether by demonstrating how the spell was cast or helping him guide the mana. But he also seemed distracted, as if he was thinking of something else. He was trying to find a way to help William learn faster without the risk of crippling him, like his previous suggestion.
At the end of the training day, William was covered in sweat. He was sitting on the grass outside, with Jinra right in front of him.
"Kid," Jinra said, "do you think you can stay here alone for a few days?"
"I guess. But why?" William asked him.
"I need to go find something, something that might help you. But it will take me a few days..." Jinra said.
Considering William's situation, he was more than willing to stay alone for a few days if Jinra brought back something that might help him. The Magic Mind spell was incredibly difficult, and he only had one month to learn it if he wanted to pass the exam.
"Sure."
"Alright," Jinra gestured for him to follow him. "I'll show you the house."
William got up and followed him.
Jinra showed him all parts of the house—with the exception of a few locked doors.
"You can stay in this room; don't sleep in the barn again," Jinra said. "Before you ask, the house and the surrounding area have magical formations to protect you. The only reason you got close to the house the day we met is because I deactivated them; otherwise, you would be dead."
"...Right, that's good to know," William said.
After the house tour, Jinra packed a few things into a backpack and left, leaving William alone in the house. William, the disciplined student that he was, started practicing Magic Mind again. He couldn't afford to lose any time.
When night came, he went to the bedroom to sleep—and then return to his present time in the magic academy—and that's when he heard a strange noise coming from one of the locked doors. It sounded like a voice.What the fuck is this?' William thought as he got up from the bed.
The sound was too strange. He did his best to remain quiet so that he could hear it better—and not be heard. It came from one of the locked doors in Jinra's house. William stopped in front of it and waited. He wanted to hear the sound again, just to be sure.
Then, after a few minutes, the creepy sound came from the other side of the door once more. William heard scratching on the walls, followed by a muffled voice.
It gave him the creeps, so much so that he decided to return to the barn and try to sleep there. William didn't have the courage—or the reason—to open that door and see what was on the other side.
'I'll just wait until Jinra returns and ask him...' William thought.
The barn wasn't the best place to sleep, but it was better than being inside that house. He closed his eyes, and sleep came...
William returned to the present in Aethel, inside his temporary dorm room in the magic academy. He looked at the clock on the wall, seeing it was around 3 am.
With nothing better to do, he continued his training. The progress had been minimal, but that was expected with Magic Mind, an almost impossible spell to learn.
He managed to create a few runes and keep them 'alive' for a few seconds, not much different from what he had managed to do in Jinra's house. The only difference was an increase of one second before the runes disappeared.
When it was around 7 am, William left his dorm to meet the others, Altair included, to get breakfast in the same dining hall they had been in previously.
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Every single exam participant was there, as well as some students. The students kept glancing at William.
He had become a kind of celebrity, but not in a good way. They all expected him to fail the test, to fail to learn the Magic Mind spell.
Altair, who had a chicken leg in his mouth so early in the morning, said, his voice almost impossible to understand with the amount of food stuffed inside, "Don't mind their looks, bro. You will succeed."
William smiled. "It's been how many days since you last ate?"
"S-Shut up!" Altair said, a small piece of chicken flying from his mouth.
Breakfast was one of the best parts of William's day. All he did during the rest of the day was practice the spell and endure the anxiety of not knowing if he would pass the exam. He imagined that every exam taker felt the same way, but at least they had easier spells to learn.
William returned to his room after breakfast and stayed there the entire day. He left his room two other times—to get lunch and dinner. The rest of the day was spent practicing the Magic Mind spell. When his Chrono Shift spell was off cooldown, he would use it again and practice more in Jinra's barn.
Yes, Jinra's barn. He didn't feel like returning to the house. William was even hunting his own food in the surrounding area to avoid the food stocked inside the house. The voice was just too creepy for him.
Following that routine, seven days passed. During the seventh day, as he was practicing inside the barn as always, Jinra returned. Jinra saw him in the barn and couldn't help but ask, "I am back, William. Did something happen?"
"We need to talk."
"Sure. Let's go inside and talk about it," Jinra said with a gentle smile.
William didn't want to go. "Look, I'll be brief. I heard some creepy sounds coming from one of your locked doors. It was as if a person was scratching the walls and murmuring. Can you explain?" Enjoy new chapters from empire
The first thing that came to William's mind was that Jinra was some kind of maniac who locked people in his basement. With everything that William had witnessed in his previous world and this one, it was more than possible.
Jinra, on the other hand, was relieved. "Oh, so that's what you heard? I thought it was something bad. Do you want to come with me and see what's behind the locked door?"
William pictured the two of them opening the door, and then Jinra tossing him inside. But considering he had his portal skill to escape if needed, William went along with it. "Sure, let's go."
Jinra had been kind to him, and he wanted to believe the old man wasn't a bad person. Once they were inside the house, Jinra placed his backpack on the table and went to the locked door where the noises came from.
"Is this the door?" Jinra asked.
William nodded, a shiver running down his spine as he recalled what happened that night.
Jinra opened the door, and the first thing they saw was a staircase leading down to some sort of basement. Before either of them said a word, Jinra went down. William followed close behind. What he saw down there was unexpected: a room stacked with various items.
"This is where I keep most of the stuff I got during my adventuring days, and even after that. What you heard came from this thing right here," Jinra said, stopping in front of a necklace locked behind glass panels.
"A necklace I got from a Lich. Its power is still a mystery to me, but I know it can cause those strange noises at night, trying to mess with your head. But it stopped for me after a week or so. Maybe it just gets tired, or my mental strength was too strong for it to influence," Jinra explained.
William sighed in relief. "Never would I have thought it was something like this, damn it. That shit scared me."
"I can imagine. I forgot to tell you about it since it's been so long since the last time this necklace tried anything. Anyway, come with me; I need to show you something," Jinra said, moving away from the necklace and going back up the stairs.
Before following him, William took a good look around to see the treasures hidden there, and then he followed Jinra, who locked the door again after they left.
Jinra moved to the table where the backpack was, and from it, he pulled out a lot of potions.
"I went to the city to speak with my friend, one of the best alchemists in the world. He made a few potions for me, and these potions should help you learn Magic Mind faster and more easily. It cost me a lot, but who cares? It's not like I have anything else to spend my money on."
The potions Jinra had varied in color, and when William looked at them, he could feel their power. They weren't ordinary potions that most alchemists could make. The ones Jinra brought were exceptional.
William was excited to try them. "So there aren't side effects with this method?"
"Uh, yes, but you can't take them all at once. Let's go gradually," Jinra warned him.
William grabbed the first potion—a reddish one—and drank it. A notification from the System appeared right after.Learning speed increased by 1000% for 72 hours]
The notification revealed a powerful effect from the potion William drank. With a 1000% bonus to his learning speed, learning Magic Mind would be much faster.
"This potion is incredible," William said. "Who made it?"
What Jinra said next surprised William. "It's good but not that good. Like, a 100% increase in learning speed is decent but not exceptional, right?"
"100%?"
William didn't know why he got a 1000% bonus and not 100% like Jinra had said. With a confused expression, he asked, "And do you know the ingredients for this potion?"
Jinra grabbed the empty flask and placed it near the sink. "Are you sure you want to know about it?"
"Yes."
"Well, it's made with blood, alright? According to my friend, he used blood from demonic creatures. I know it sounds bad, but the other ingredients nullify any side effects. A lot of people use his potions," Jinra said.
Things were starting to make more sense to William. The demonic blood was once again giving him significant advantages.
He still didn't know how to feel about that.
What if it had consequences in the future? But at that moment, he wanted to learn the Magic Mind spell; therefore, he would use all means necessary. Especially considering he needed to learn the spell to enter the magic academy. The weight on his shoulders increased because of that.
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William, his eyes alight with renewed determination, wasted no time. "Shall we get back to training, then?" he asked, eager to put his enhanced learning to the test.
Jinra, accustomed to William's enthusiasm, simply nodded. "Of course," he replied, leading the way outside. "Let's see what you can do."
The training resumed with renewed vigor. William focused his mind, channeling mana into the intricate runes of the Magic Mind spell. Jinra observed intently, offering guidance and corrections, his keen eyes detecting the slightest flaw in William's technique.
Jinra watched, impressed. William's mana manipulation was flawless, his control over the ethereal energy remarkable. The difficulty lay not in his technique, but in the sheer complexity of the spell itself. Yet, even with this monumental challenge, the potion's effects were undeniable.
William, his mind sharpened and his learning accelerated, surpassed his previous limitations. He effortlessly formed twenty-five runes simultaneously, sustaining them for an impressive twelve seconds. The progress was extraordinary, even for someone of William's talent.
"I never expected such a dramatic improvement," Jinra admitted, his voice laced with surprise. "And you said this potion's effects last for seventy-two hours?"
"That's what my System indicated," William confirmed, still catching his breath from the exertion of maintaining the complex spell structure.
Jinra, unaware that the potion's effects were ten times stronger than William had initially described, was astonished by his rapid progress. He had witnessed countless mages struggle with this spell, their efforts spanning months, even years. William, however, seemed poised to master it in a fraction of the time. Your journey continues with empire
As dusk settled over the land, William prepared to rest in the barn.
"Are you sure you want to sleep out here again?" Jinra asked, concern etched on his weathered face.
"Yes," William replied, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "I need to focus all my energy on mastering this spell. Avoiding the...distractions of your Lich necklace will help with that."
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Jinra chuckled, understanding dawning in his eyes. "Very well, lad. I'll see you in the morning."
It didn't take long for William to sleep. He didn't know exactly when his body floated back to the current time of Aethel, but he felt rested when he woke up at around 5 am, so he got some good hours of sleep before returning on his own.
He was once again back in the familiar dormitory every single one of the exam takers were sleeping at.
When he went to the hallway, the place was vivid. Most people were starting to learn their first spells.
"I've managed to complete 2 C rank spells by now, and almost a B rank too. What about you?" a girl asked her friends.
"I have two B rank spells."
"Wow! That's impressive! We still have time so let's work hard."
Everyone who found some success in learning the spells was happy. There were still around 17 days to go, so the exam participants had plenty of time to learn more spells and accumulate more points.
William, on the other hand, was not so focused on these low ranked spells. He wanted to master his A rank spell, and shock every single one of them.
But for now, of course, he was the laughing stock of everyone.
"William, right?" a young man approached William in the dorm hallway, "How is your spell learning going? Managed to get at least 5 runes going?"
The people around them started laughing, leaving William in discomfort. But he was used to it. His classmates back on Earth made fun of him, and that wouldn't get to him.
William smiled. "Yeah, I am holding the runes well during the spell practice. Pretty sure I am at least holding better than your father did with his seed. Imagine having an intimate time of 15 seconds, and make someone like you come into this world. What a fucking shame." frёewebnoѵēl.com
Those who were laughing stopped completely. What William said hurt the feelings of the young man who came to make fun of him.
As nobles, their lineage and family were really important, and the noble didn't want to get treated like that in front of the other nobles who were watching.
"What did you say?" the young man said in anger.
"I believe you heard me correctly," William reiterated, his voice laced with a cool confidence. "If you have a problem with it, you can schedule a duel with me once we're both students." He paused, letting the challenge hang in the air. "Assuming, of course, that you have what it takes to actually pass the exams and earn your place here."
With that parting shot, William exited the dormitory, leaving a trail of stunned silence in his wake. He had no time to waste on petty squabbles.
His first stop was the dining hall, where he piled his plate high with a breakfast feast. Altair arrived shortly after, concerned.
"I heard you had a bit of a...disagreement with a noble," Altair began tentatively. "Is everything alright?"
"Everything's perfectly fine," William assured him, spearing a generous portion of his omelet. "If he makes it into the academy, we'll settle things with a duel. I'm confident I can handle him."
After breakfast, William headed to the gymnasium. While he often practiced in his room, the talking among the exam takers and the small environment made it less than ideal for focused spellcasting. The gymnasium, with its vast training areas and high ceilings, offered the perfect environment to hone his skills.
A few academy students were already practicing, their movements fluid and precise. William found a secluded corner, a simple task in the massive space, and resumed his training. Twenty-five intricate runes shimmered around him, their complexity drawing curious glances from the other students. William, however, remained oblivious, his concentration absolute.
The next goal he had was to get the first set of 50 runes going, and reap the benefits of the Magic Mind spell.
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Home Summoned with an SSS-Rank Portal Skill Chapter 54: Magic Academy Exam (12) - Secret Meeting, and First 50 Runes
SUMMONED WITH AN SSS-RANK PORTAL SKILL
Chapter 54: Magic Academy Exam (12) - Secret Meeting, and First 50 Runes
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The students training in the gymnasium were visibly awestruck by William's progress. Word of his attempt to master the infamous Magic Mind spell had spread like wildfire, and the sight of twenty-five intricate runes swirling around him solidified his reputation as a prodigy.
He trained relentlessly, pushing his limits, and by day's end, he had increased his count to twenty-seven. News of his accomplishment spread through the halls of Snowpeak Academy, fueling both admiration and disbelief.
In the academy courtyard, a group of students huddled together, their conversation dominated by William's feat. One of them, a red-haired youth, spoke with fervent admiration.
"Did you hear?" he exclaimed, his eyes wide with excitement. "William has already mastered twenty-seven runes of the Magic Mind spell!"
"You're joking, right?" one of his companions scoffed. "That's the best joke I've heard all year!"
"I'm serious!" the red-haired student insisted. "He's a genius! I want to learn from him someday."
Their conversation was interrupted by the sudden appearance of Headmaster Tholfnir. "Are you certain he has mastered twenty-seven runes?" Tholfnir inquired, his voice a gentle rumble.
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The students, startled by his unexpected presence, bowed respectfully. "Yes, Headmaster Tholfnir," the red-haired student confirmed. "I saw him practicing in the gymnasium. I wouldn't lie."
Tholfnir's lips curled into a subtle smile. "I know you wouldn't," he said, his eyes twinkling with an unspoken knowledge. "Thank you for informing me."
With a subtle gesture, Tholfnir vanished, leaving the students to ponder the meaning behind his cryptic words.
The students' hushed whispers followed William like a shadow. His audacious choice of spell, his rapid progress, and his defiant stance against the prince had made him a legend within the academy walls. But admiration was often intertwined with mockery.
"So what if he's mastered a few dozen runes?" scoffed a noble student, his voice dripping with disdain. "There are, what, a hundred and eighty of them or something?"
"Actually," one of his companions corrected, "there are one hundred and ninety-two runes in the Magic Mind spell."
"Hah!" the noble exclaimed, his laughter echoing through the courtyard. "That makes it even worse! The idiot's going to fail."
The group erupted in laughter, their scorn for William evident. He was, once again, the subject of ridicule, his ambition dismissed as foolish arrogance.
But not everyone shared this dismissive attitude. The professors, witnessing his relentless dedication and remarkable progress, recognized a rare talent. Even Headmaster Tholfnir, his wisdom honed by centuries of experience, saw something special in William.
Under the cloak of night, while the academy slumbered, Tholfnir summoned the professors to a secret meeting. They gathered around a circular table in a hidden chamber, the air thick with anticipation.
"I believe we must grant him a place, even if he doesn't fully master the spell or achieve the required points," Tholfnir declared, his voice resonating with conviction. "His ability to learn so many runes of the Magic Mind spell in such a short time speaks volumes about his potential."
A young professor with slicked-back hair raised an objection. "But Headmaster," he argued, "won't this damage the academy's reputation? The entrance process has remained unchanged for centuries. Making an exception for him could spark outrage."
Tholfnir's lips curled into a knowing smile. "I am well aware of the process," he replied, his eyes twinkling. "And I also recall that the last student granted such an exception was...myself, centuries ago." He paused, his gaze sweeping across the assembled professors. "I believe this young man is worth the risk. What are your thoughts?"
The professors, their initial reservations overridden by Tholfnir's conviction and William's undeniable talent, agreed to grant him a place even if he fell short of the required points. A sense of excitement filled the room, and a wager was proposed. One professor, his beard as white as the snowcapped peaks surrounding the academy, declared he would craft a unique enchanted ring for William if he succeeded. Others chimed in with promises of favors and preferential treatment, though most remained skeptical of his chances.
Tholfnir's next words, however, shocked the room into silence. "If he masters Magic Mind," he declared, his voice resonating with an unwavering belief, "I shall take him as my personal disciple." He paused, letting the weight of his statement sink in. "If he fails, I shall grant each of you a favor. But if he succeeds, I expect you to provide him with every advantage and opportunity this academy has to offer."
A favor from Tholfnir, the kingdom's most powerful mage, was a prize beyond measure, especially with no limitations placed upon the request. The prospect of such a reward, coupled with the potential to mentor a student of William's caliber, sparked a competitive fire in their hearts.
"Don't feel bad when I call in that favor, Tholfnir," James, the young professor with slicked-back hair, chuckled. "That kid is talented, no doubt, but he won't master that spell in the remaining time. No way."
"I agree with James," another professor chimed in. "It's simply too much to ask."
Tholfnir, his eyes twinkling with an ancient wisdom, simply smiled. He knew better than anyone the challenges William faced, but he also recognized the spark of greatness within the young man. Only time would tell if William could rise to the occasion and claim his destiny.
William was blissfully unaware of the clandestine meeting transpiring elsewhere. He was dead to the world, lost in the depths of slumber after an exhausting day spent wrestling with the intricacies of the Magic Mind spell.
Three days had flown by since he'd imbibed the potent elixir. The 1000% boost to his learning speed was no joke; he'd already managed to piece together the first 50 runes of the spell, an impressive feat by any measure.
Of course, he wasn't alone in this endeavor. Jinra, his ever-present guide, was there every step of the way, helping him weave those arcane symbols into his very being, coaxing forth the first faint whispers of the Magic Mind's power.
"Focus, William," Jinra instructed, his voice a calming presence amidst the chaotic storm of magic. "Guide the runes directly into your mind. They cannot take root elsewhere."
Creating the runes had been an ordeal, a trial by fire that pushed William to his limits. But inscribing them onto his soul, weaving them into the fabric of his mind – that was proving to be an entirely different beast.
Despite Jinra's guidance, it was like trying to thread a needle in a hurricane. Each attempt to absorb the runes sent them scattering through his body, a chaotic dance of energy that refused to be tamed.
"You need to focus," Jinra repeated, his voice laced with concern.
Hours blurred into a frustrating haze of failed attempts. Finally, William erupted, his frustration boiling over. "I am focusing!" he roared, slamming his fist against the floor. "I'm trying my best!"
Jinra placed a calming hand on William's shoulder. "Alright, alright, I know you are," he said softly, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Just relax for a moment. Let's take a breather. I'll go fetch us some water."
He was, undeniably, a good mentor. He understood that berating William for his lack of focus would only exacerbate the issue. Sometimes, a gentle touch and a moment of respite were far more effective than relentless pressure.
William watched him go, then slumped back against the rough bark of a nearby tree, the frustration gnawing at him. He was surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the forest clearing, the sun dappling through the leaves, birdsong filling the air. Yet, all he could feel was the burning impatience of his own shortcomings.
'Will I succeed in time?' The thought echoed through his mind, a chilling whisper that threatened to consume him. The deadline loomed, a menacing shadow that stretched ever closer.
Prev Chapterof useEven mastering the first 50 runes—a mere fraction of the 192 that formed the complete Magic Mind spell—did little to quell the doubt gnawing at William. Could he truly conquer this monumental task in time?He trained relentlessly, pushing himself to the brink of exhaustion. Every waking moment within Aethel's past was consumed by the intricate dance of runes, their complex patterns swirling in his mind's eye.
He would practice until his body screamed for respite, then activate Chrono Shift, that potent SSS-rank skill, ripping open a portal to the past and stepping back into Aethel to relive those hours anew.
With time frozen in the present—in the academy where he truly belonged—he effectively doubled his training time. Yet, even with Jinra's unwavering support, it felt like an insurmountable challenge.
"Only eight individuals in history have ever mastered this spell," William muttered to himself, the weight of that knowledge pressing down on him. "Eight legendary mages, each a titan in their own right. Why did I even entertain the thought of joining their ranks?"
The seed of this reckless ambition had been planted in a moment of youthful arrogance. He'd yearned to prove himself, to silence the whispers of doubt that followed him like a shadow.
Summoned to this world as a hero, he carried the burden of expectation, the crushing weight of a destiny he hadn't chosen. If a hero couldn't master this spell, then who could?
Jinra returned, a glass of cool water sloshing gently in his hand. "Here," he said, offering it to William. "Drink this. You'll feel better."
William gratefully accepted the water, the cool liquid soothing his parched throat. "Thanks," he mumbled, then hesitated. "Is it normal for this to be so...difficult? I mean, getting the runes to settle into my mind feels like wrestling a swarm of angry hornets."
Jinra chuckled, a low rumble that echoed through the clearing. "You're accustomed to the ease of lower-rank spells, William," he explained. "But the Magic Mind is in a league of its own, far more complex and demanding than anything you've encountered before. This struggle is to be expected." He clapped a reassuring hand on William's shoulder. "But fret not, young one. We'll get there. Persistence is key."
William's eyes lit up with a sudden thought. "What about potions? Could another draught give me the edge I need?" His mind flashed back to the potent concoction brewed from demonic blood—its effects amplified tenfold within his unique physiology.
Jinra, however, shook his head, a stern expression settling on his face. "I have a few potions remaining," he admitted, "but your body needs time to recover from the last dose. We cannot afford to rush this process, William. Impatience could lead to grave consequences, even crippling you. I won't risk your well-being for the sake of a shortcut."
No choice remained. After a brief respite, William steeled his resolve and plunged back into the maelstrom, wrestling with the unruly runes.
Hours bled into one another as he grappled with the chaotic energies, his focus unwavering. Finally, with a surge of power that left him breathless, he triumphed. Fifty runes, glowing with an ethereal blue light, etched themselves onto his forehead, intertwining and converging until they formed a single, radiant symbol.
The system's notification chimed, a symphony of success: Experience more tales on empire
[+30 Intelligence]
[+15% Learning Speed]
[+15% Memory Retention]
[You can now achieve a clearer mind during meditation]
The effects were staggering, and this was merely the first act in the grand play of Magic Mind. While the 15% learning speed boost paled in comparison to the potion's explosive 1000%, the permanent nature of this enhancement, coupled with the amplified memory retention and the surge in raw intelligence, far outweighed any temporary gains.
Each point of intelligence amplified his learning capacity exponentially, making this permanent upgrade far superior to any fleeting potion-induced boost.
And the absence of debilitating side effects? Priceless. Potions were a crutch, a dangerous gamble with potentially devastating consequences. This, however, was pure, unadulterated power. seaʀᴄh thё novёlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.
"I did it!" William roared, his voice ringing with triumph.
Jinra beamed, his pride radiating like the sun. He pulled William into a tight embrace, his gruff voice softening with affection. "Well done, lad! You possess a rare talent indeed."
Their bond, forged in the crucible of magical pursuit, had deepened considerably in their short time together. To witness a student unlock the secrets of a spell as profound as Magic Mind was a reward in itself for any mentor.
"Thanks," William replied, a grin splitting his face. "It's just the beginning, I know, but it's a damn good start. This definitely fuels the fire!"
Twilight painted the sky in hues of orange and purple as William finally emerged from the depths of his magical struggle. His time within Aethel's past was drawing to a close; Chrono Shift, for now, limited him to a single day in that bygone era.
Exhausted but elated, he stumbled towards the barn, collapsing onto a bed of hay. Sleep claimed him instantly, and he awoke with the dawn, back in his familiar dormitory within the bustling magic academy.
The hallway buzzed with the usual pre-exam chatter. Students boasted of their accomplishments, their voices laced with a mixture of confidence and anxiety. Some had already mastered a few low-level spells, earning them precious points towards passing the test.
William, despite his monumental achievement, remained at zero. But the Magic Mind...ah, that was a game changer. If he could conquer that behemoth, the top spot in the rankings was all but assured.
He was about to head towards the dining hall when a familiar figure materialized beside him. Altair, with his ever-present smile and helpful demeanor, was like a golden retriever in human form.
"Heard about the lecture today?" Altair chirped, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Apparently, it's supposed to be a real eye-opener, even for seasoned mages. Might give us an edge in our training." He paused, dropping his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "And guess what? It's being given by one of the summoned heroes! Right after breakfast!"
William blinked, momentarily disoriented. Lost in his intense training within Aethel's past, he'd been oblivious to any news or announcements.
He even thought he had heard it wrong.
"One of the summoned heroes?" William echoed, his voice tight with a mixture of apprehension and disbelief. He knew exactly who Altair was talking about – it had to be one of his former classmates, another soul ripped from their world and thrust into this one. But while those heroes were celebrated and lauded, William had been cast aside, stripped of his title, and left to fend for himself.
Altair, blissfully unaware of the turmoil brewing within William, continued his enthusiastic chatter. "Yep! Apparently, he's some kind of prodigy. Already mastered a bunch of high-level spells and even helped some of the professors with their...uh...professor stuff. Everyone's calling him a genius." He gave William a playful nudge. "Maybe you should try to snag a seat next to him. Some of that brilliance might rub off on you!"
William forced a chuckle, his mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. This was a disaster. He couldn't risk being seen by one of them. Who knew what kind of reaction they'd have? Would they expose him as a failure, a hero who had been discarded? Shame burned in his throat, a bitter taste that threatened to choke him.
He had to find a way to attend the lecture without being noticed. Perhaps he could disguise himself, or slip in late and find a seat in the back...
"Uh, yeah, that's...great," William stammered, trying to maintain his composure. "Just remembered something I need to take care of first. How about we meet at the lecture hall? I'll see you there."
Altair, though clearly sensing William's evasiveness, graciously let it slide. "Sure thing," he replied with a shrug. "See you later!"
As Altair bounded off down the hallway, William leaned against the wall, his heart pounding. He needed a plan, and fast. This lecture had just become a high-stakes game.
a hero, lecturing at snowpeak magic academy? the very notion sent a shiver down william's spine. as far as he knew, elric's teleportation magic had flung him into an entirely different kingdom. what was one of his former comrades doing here? and why?'could they be looking for me?' the thought burrowed into his mind like a persistent worm. it wasn't entirely implausible. if that were the case, he was in serious danger.
even if this hero's presence was merely a coincidence, william couldn't risk being recognized. the shame of his expulsion was a burden he wasn't ready to share.
his initial instinct was to avoid the lecture altogether. but as he hurried through the academy grounds, a stern-faced professor intercepted him.
"william, is it?" the old mage rasped, his eyes peering down at william over the rim of his spectacles.
"yes," william replied, his anxiety growing. "is something wrong?"
"though you're not yet officially a student," the professor declared, "attendance at this morning's lecture is mandatory for all. it's of vital importance, young man. do not miss it, or face the consequences."
"okay," william mumbled, his stomach churning. consequences? what kind of consequences? he needed to find a way to camouflage himself, become invisible. even amidst a sea of faces, he was certain his former classmate would recognize him.
there was only one person he could think of who might be able to help: headmaster tholfnir. with a renewed sense of urgency, william set off to find the elusive mage.
tholfnir's chambers were located within the academy's main building, but he wasn't known for his consistency in keeping office hours. rumors swirled about his frequent travels, whispers of a secret hideaway known only to a select few. still, william clung to the hope that the impending lecture would have drawn him back to the academy.
a stoic guard barred his path as he approached tholfnir's door.
"state your business," the guard demanded, his voice devoid of any warmth.
"i need to speak with headmaster tholfnir," william replied, trying to project an air of confidence he didn't feel.
the guard scoffed. "not even enrolled students can meet with him on a whim. and you think you can? there are professors and staff members more suited to address your concerns. headmaster tholfnir is a busy man."
william knew the guard wasn't wrong, but he had to try.
suddenly, as if conjured from thin air, tholfnir appeared beside them. he placed a calming hand on the guard's shoulder. "it's alright," he said, his voice a low rumble. "let him pass." he turned to william, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "come, william. let's talk in my office."
william followed, his heart pounding with a mixture of relief and trepidation. he cast a glance back at the bewildered guard, who stood frozen in disbelief. how had he, a mere prospective student, gained such easy access to the headmaster? he didn't have the answer, but he wasn't about to question his good fortune.
tholfnir's office was a testament to his personality: meticulously organized, with towering bookshelves lining the walls and a massive window offering a panoramic view of the academy courtyard. william settled into a plush chair facing the headmaster's imposing oak desk.
"so, william," tholfnir began, a warm smile gracing his features. "how can i be of assistance?"
william's mind raced. what could he possibly say? confessing his true identity as a fallen hero was out of the question. he needed a plausible excuse to avoid the lecture or, at the very least, to attend incognito.
"do you know how long this summoned hero will be at the academy?" william asked, feigning casual curiosity.
tholfnir's brow furrowed slightly. "just today. he's passing through and offered to share some insights with the students. why do you ask?" seaʀᴄh thё nôvelfire(.)net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.
"i was wondering if there might be a way for me to...skip the lecture?" william ventured. "i could use the extra time to focus on my training. as you know, the spell i've chosen is quite challenging."
tholfnir shook his head gently. "while i understand your dedication, william, the lecture will be brief. it might even prove beneficial to your studies."
william pressed on, desperation edging into his voice. "but i'm at a critical juncture in my training. if i must attend, could you perhaps provide me with a secluded spot to watch? a place where i can maintain my focus? i just completed the first 50 runes of magic mind, and i need to capitalize on this momentum." read latest stories on empire
it was a flimsy excuse, but william was grasping at straws. he hoped that demonstrating his progress might sway the headmaster.
and it worked. tholfnir's eyes widened in disbelief. "what did you say? you've already mastered 50 runes? is this true, young man?"
instead of answering, william summoned the runes, letting them swirl around him in a mesmerizing display of blue light. tholfnir, stunned, sank back into his chair.
"t-this is incredible," he stammered, his voice laced with awe.
tholfnir stroked his beard, a thoughtful expression settling on his face. "very well," he declared. "i can arrange for a secluded space where you can observe the lecture without interruption. but are you certain you can multitask effectively? simultaneously meditating and absorbing information is a difficult skill to master."
william, however, had a secret weapon. the first set of magic mind runes, unbeknownst to tholfnir, granted him exceptional clarity during meditation. "yes, headmaster," he replied confidently. "i'm sure i can manage."
"excellent," tholfnir said, a hint of pride in his voice. "i'm impressed by your dedication, william. now, let's head to the lecture hall, shall we?"
william followed, curiosity piqued. where exactly would he be observing from? tholfnir led him not to the crowded hall, but to the academy's top floor—an area typically off-limits to students. the ceiling had been enchanted to provide an open-air view of the entire grounds, including the stage where the lecture was to take place.
"will i be watching from here?" william asked, surprised.
"of course not," tholfnir chuckled. "you wouldn't be able to hear a thing from this distance. observe and learn, young one."
with a practiced flourish, tholfnir conjured a series of runes in the air. a shimmering, translucent sphere materialized before them, growing rapidly until it dwarfed both of them. with a snap of his fingers, the sphere opened, revealing a passageway into its depths.
william gasped. the interior was astonishing—a spacious, luxuriously furnished room, far grander than anything he could have imagined. even more remarkable was the sphere's one-way transparency. he could see the outside world with perfect clarity, yet from the outside, the sphere remained opaque.
"we'll be watching from here," tholfnir announced, gesturing towards a plush sofa. "refreshments are available should you require them."
with a subtle gesture, tholfnir guided the magical sphere through the walls of the academy, bypassing crowded corridors and bustling classrooms, arriving finally at the grand hall where the lecture was to commence.
"won't they notice us floating in here?" william asked, a hint of concern in his voice.
tholfnir chuckled. "only if i allow it," he replied, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "i'll simply adjust the sphere's size and opacity, rendering it practically invisible to the casual observer."
the sheer versatility of the spell was astounding. william stared at tholfnir with newfound respect. 'he truly is the strongest mage in the kingdom,' william thought, a flicker of ambition igniting within him. 'will i ever reach such heights?'
the lecture hall was packed. students and exam-takers alike crammed into every available space, their anticipation palpable. as the appointed time drew near, the crowd hushed, their attention drawn to the elevated platform at the center of the hall.
and then, he appeared.
the summoned hero.
william's breath caught in his throat. it was him. a face etched in memory, a classmate from his former life on earth. but here, in this world, he was a beacon of power, a symbol of hope. a stark contrast to william, the summoned hero who no one knew about.
the person giving the lecture was kevin...of all the summoned heroes, all those insufferable classmates from college, kevin was the absolute worst. the memories of his relentless bullying, the snide remarks, the shoves in the hallway, and the humiliating beatdown in the gym locker room – they all came flooding back, a torrent of resentment and anger.
and there he stood, basking in the adulation of the crowd, the savior of this world, the prodigy, the genius. william's fists clenched, his nails digging into his palms. he'd give anything to wipe that smug grin off kevin's face, to see him toppled from his pedestal.
'why him?' william seethed, his frustration mounting. of all the people to be celebrated, why did it have to be the one who had made his life a living hell? it felt like a cruel cosmic joke.
william fought to maintain a neutral expression, burying his resentment deep within. he couldn't let tholfnir sense his turmoil. the invisibility sphere was a blessing in disguise. he could observe kevin without fear of being recognized, a voyeur in his own twisted reunion. sёarch* the nôᴠelfirё.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.
kevin's power was immediately apparent, radiating from him in palpable waves. it was undeniable – the man was leagues ahead of william.
they were both summoned heroes, blessed with exceptional talent and innate skills, but while william had trained under the tutelage of gorn and jinra, kevin had clearly been molded by the best of the best. mages on par with tholfnir, or perhaps even stronger, had honed his abilities. resources flowed freely to him, the chosen savior destined to confront the demon lord.
but instead of discouragement, a fierce determination ignited within william. he would work harder, push himself further, and surpass them all, even without their privileged access to resources and elite instructors. he would carve his own path to power.
a hush fell over the hall as kevin began his lecture. he started with training tips, sharing insights gleaned from his diverse mentors across various kingdoms.
these methods differed significantly from snowpeak's traditional practices, making them particularly valuable to the eager audience. william, despite his animosity, found himself leaning forward, absorbing every word.
despite his personal feelings, william wasn't foolish enough to ignore potentially valuable information. he listened intently, gleaning whatever insights he could from kevin's lecture. he maintained a meditative facade, more for tholfnir's benefit than his own. he'd already made significant progress with the magic mind runes; his focus now was on staying under the radar.
the second part of the lecture, however, took a sharp turn. kevin's confident demeanor shifted, a gravity settling over his features as he addressed the audience.
"the demon lord and his forces are not the only threat we face," he announced, his gaze sweeping across the room. "the kingdom of sartana is mobilizing against yours. and they have allies. my kingdom is prepared to offer assistance in this impending war."
a ripple of unease spread through the hall. william glanced at tholfnir, who sat beside him with a grim expression.
"did you know about this?" william whispered, his voice laced with concern.
tholfnir nodded slowly. "we were aware of sartana's aggression," he admitted, "but the involvement of allies...that is troubling news. it's not a full-scale war yet, but they've been testing our defenses, sending troops across our borders, embedding spies within our ranks."
william's mind raced. "does this have anything to do with the reduced intake of students at the academy?" he asked, a sudden realization dawning on him.
tholfnir met his gaze, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. "you're a perceptive young man, william," he said. "indeed, you're correct. we must conserve our resources. each student represents a significant investment."
it all made sense now. the academy provided everything for free – tuition, lodging, even meals. with war looming, they were tightening their belts, ensuring they had the financial means to weather the coming storm.
the weight of the impending conflict settled heavily on william's shoulders. the future seemed fraught with uncertainty, and his desire to join the academy intensified. it was his best chance to gain strength, to become a force to be reckoned with, and perhaps even to find a way to navigate the treacherous currents of the looming war.
as the two-hour lecture concluded, kevin approached tholfnir, requesting a private conversation. tholfnir exited the sphere, leaving william concealed within its shimmering walls. from his hidden vantage point, william listened with bated breath as their hushed words reached him.
"i'm also here seeking information about one of the summoned heroes," kevin murmured, his voice low and conspiratorial. "i have reliable intel suggesting he's hiding somewhere in this kingdom."
tholfnir's brow furrowed. "one of your own? why isn't he with you?"
"let's just say there were...complications," kevin replied evasively. "unfortunately, i don't have a portrait, and his appearance may have changed. but i'll return in a year to continue the search, and i hope to enlist your aid."
"of course," tholfnir agreed readily. "we can work together to locate him." read latest stories on empire
fear gripped william's heart. he had one year. one year to either vanish from kevin's radar or to become strong enough to face him head-on. the clock was ticking.
the irony wasn't lost on william. he hadn't even set foot inside the academy as a student, and yet, his primary goal had already shifted to surpassing kevin, to proving himself not just worthy, but superior.
a wave of relief washed over him as kevin finally departed, soaring through the sky with a display of high-level magic that underscored the chasm between their current abilities. he and tholfnir exited the now-invisible sphere, stepping back into the bustling hall.
"i must attend to urgent matters in light of this new information," tholfnir declared, his brow furrowed with worry. "we'll speak again soon, william."
william simply nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. he wouldn't burden the headmaster with trivial concerns.
as tholfnir hurried away, altair materialized beside william, his usual cheerfulness replaced with a frown.
"where were you?" he demanded. "i looked everywhere! you know those who skipped the lecture will be punished, right?"
william shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips. "i'm not officially a student yet, so what can they do? besides," he added casually, "i watched the lecture with headmaster tholfnir."
altair's jaw dropped. "w-what? with the headmaster? how?"
"i just asked," william replied vaguely. he clapped a hand on altair's shoulder, his expression turning serious. "we need to secure our places in this academy, altair. if war is coming, we need to be ready."
the levity vanished from altair's face. "you don't need to tell me," he said, his voice tight with determination. "my family lives near the border. i have to get stronger, to protect them."
the atmosphere within the academy crackled with a newfound intensity. kevin's lecture, with its stark warnings of impending war, had cast a long shadow over the exam-takers. the carefree confidence of the previous days evaporated, replaced by a grim determination.
the tension ratcheted up another notch when tholfnir announced a further reduction in available spots.
only eight individuals would gain entry into the academy. panic rippled through the ranks, but william remained unfazed. his strategy was clear: master the magic mind spell. the sheer power of that spell would guarantee him a place, regardless of how many spots were up for grabs.
time seemed to accelerate, the remaining days blurring into a frenzy of focused study and practice. finally, the moment of truth arrived. the exam. a chance to showcase their newfound abilities, to prove their worth, and to secure their future in a world teetering on the brink of war.