“Interesting… very interesting.”

“What are your thoughts?”

Master Zelketh eyed Vel with interested eyes. His bug-like mutated eye continuously rotated clockwise and anti-clockwise as he tried to observe Vel’s paranormal properties.

Plus, it’s not just him. Almost every other adult at the Lux detroth booth were staring at Vel with keen interest, although they were not as up close.

The time was 7:36 am, just before breakfast, Cadeus dropped at Tenebris Vacuum to let Master Zelketh have a look at Vel. He wanted to make sure that there were no hidden complications he’s unaware off. When he arrived at Lux detroth, there weren’t as many working adults, but that did not stop arousing their interest

“I would say, that this familiar of yours is really one of a kind. In my experience, using a baby corpse always resulted in failure. Even if the ritual would succeed, its physical form would be very weak and the chimera would just die off on its own. All the more if the attempt was to create a wraith familiar. However, this seems to not be the case. Your familiar’s physical connection to the material world is top notch, and it seems to be well aware of its purpose for existing.”

“So there’s nothing I need to be aware of?”

“That will have to depends on how well you get along with your familiar. Usually complications and faults will be identified the more you know your familiar. You could treat your familiar as a test subject for a while and see if there are any complications. If there are, the solution will present itself most of the time.”

With an increasing curiosity towards Vel’s paranormal makeup, Master Zelketh edged closer to it.

“May I touch it?”

“You may try.”

The instance Master Zelketh’s fingers were an inch away from Vel, it instantly warped itself to Cadeus’s side.

Staring at Vel, the two of them spend a few moments to contemplate this behaviour.

“Hm… interesting. Does it do that all the time?”

“I don’t know.”

“How you touched it?”

“…”

Cadeus stared at Vel, it stared back at him as if it’s awaiting instructions.

“No.”

“Why don’t you try touching it?”

“Why does it matter?”

“Call it an academic analysis.”

“…You are really enjoying yourself do you know that?”

“Of course I am! I get to witness something very interesting at this very moment!”

Sighing, Cadeus braced himself before reaching out to Vel.

This time, Vel did not move away.

Once his hand came to pat its head, Cadeus expected some sort of mild negative paranormal effect to befall onto him. Having seen how dreadful the wraith from the catacombs could be, it was only natural for Cadeus to be precautious. However, when his skin came into contact with that mass of black, Cadeus felt nothing but a soft squishy sensation.

“It feels… like a cushion.”

“OOHH!!! An instant pillow? The girls will really like it!”

Cadeus suddenly got a goose bump. He immediately swore that Nadav must never find out about Vel’s soft physical makeup.

If he ever did, Cadeus had foreseen that he’ll start to view Vel as some sort of girl attraction tool.

“Where did you find the formulae to do something as complex as this?”

“I got it off a page at the D-reference section.”

“Oh? What is the book called?”

“I don’t know. It was a slip of paper just by itself. But at the bottom of the page there was a reference to a Black Book called The Book of Spirits by a Zelnarius Pride ve Lu. It might be a translation.” Cadeus slipped in the half-truth.

“Oh is it? Tell me more about it.”

Cadeus told the man the whole thing from top to bottom.

“Hm… the Oldeus Circle? Interesting choice. Simple, yet difficult to control.”

“Are you going to attempt to replicate the process?”

“No not really. I could try, but I doubt my attempt would create the same result. Since blood is used, it’s quite the unstable factor. As everyone’s blood is different, my own blood would yield a different result, especially when I’m Mixed Blooded.”

“I see…”

Despite all that was going on, Vel still remained silent.

“…Does it talk?” Master Zelketh asked.

“No, not at all. Can wraiths talk?”

“The highly intelligent ones can.”

Master Zelketh rubbed his chin as his mutated eye rotated.

“Hm… Well, newborns tend to be less receptive. Their minds are not tuned to be very responsive. Not unless you include an actual brain in the ingredient list.”

Master Zelketh soon began staring at Cadeus with keen interest.

“What?”

“You, boy, are a natural. I really want you as my Apprentice.”

“Please… don't start. I’ll never hear the end of it.”

“Well, there’s still time before you attain the rank of Apprentice. Just remember, I’m always open to accepting Pure Bloods as Apprentices.”

“Right.”

With his business concluded, Cadeus decided to leave the forest entrance for it’s almost time to meet his friends for Breakfast.

Just as he was about to leave, he soon recalled that Vel was still hovering in the air following him.

“…Um. Vel. Could you disappear? Like previously. I’ll call on you again if I need you.”

Vel entered into a swirl and disappeared. It may not be present visually, but Cadeus could feel it watching him somewhere within the immaterial.

TOA

After exiting Converse Hall, Cadeus was on his way back to the dormitory when he encountered an interesting sight.

At the side of the pavement road linking the dormitories to Converse Hall, there were a few resting benches facing a garden river.

On one of those benches, there’s a small girl with rich pink hair sitting on one of the benches going through what seems to be paper work.

What’s she doing there?

Going by her causal clothes she’s definitely not a student, and she’s too young to be a teacher.

Could she be a visiting noble?

Cadeus looked around.

There’s no butler or escort for this young girl.

“Is she going to be fine?”

Feeling slightly concerned for her, Cadeus moved towards her.

Just when he’s about seven feet away from her, he soon noticed something protruding out of her head.

“Wait… are those horns?”

Now that he’s closer, Cadeus could see two small black horns erupted from the side of her head before angling straight forward.

Cadeus tilted his head to the side.

Could it be that the horns were some sort of magical amplifier or artifact?

Hm… not really.

Even at this close distance, Cadeus could not feel any sort of magical presence coming from the horns.

“Cosplay?”

If it was, it would definitely be a very good joke.

Cosplay exists in Zeffernon!

Nadav would definitely go crazy for something like that.

Thinking that the horns were an interesting piece of decorative, Cadeus walked up behind her, grabbed the horns and lifted them up.

“Eh?”

For some weird reason, the girl was detached from the ground as well.

“What the… are the horns attached with some sort of – ”

“Give, it, a, bloody, REEESSSSSSSSTT!!!!”

KICK!

At that very instance, the girl raised her left leg and jammed the back of her foot into Cadeus’s groin.

“GGHH?!!”

With the sudden pain, Cadeus immediately collapsed and sent his hands straight to his damaged genitals.

“Hmph! This is what you get for treating me like a kid!”

Satisfied with delivering her punishment, the kid stood in front of the collapsed Cadeus arms folded with a smirk in her face.

In addition to the obvious pain, Cadeus could immediately sense hostility projecting from Vel’s position.

“No… Vel…”

Although it was not much of a wheeze to his voice, Vel’s attentiveness to it’s master soon made it retract its intention to lash out against this kid.

Now that he managed to avoid a major disaster that came in the form of Vel attacking a child, Cadeus brought his attention to the kid in front of him.

“Aren’t… you… a kid?”

“I, am, NOT, a kid! In fact, I’m a teacher of this Academy!”

“…………….What?”

A kid teacher in the Academy?

“Are you… some sort of Magi genius?”

“That’s right! I’m a genius!”

So not a genius…

Once the pain in his groin subsidized, Cadeus stood up straight and looked down on the little girl.

“So, Miss Self proclaimed teacher.”

“You are clearly looking down on me aren't you? Hmph! Since you are a mere student in your first year I’ll forgive your insolence.”

“Are you lost?”

“For, the, last, time, I’m not a little kid! True, I have the appearance of a 12 year old, but I’ll have you know this. I’m a Dragon!”

“……………What?”

Now the kid’s trying to call herself a dragon?

What’s with kids these days?

The kid soon made a proud gesture to her horns.

“See this? These horns marks my proud heritage! I’ll also have you know that I’m a 300 year old dragon.”

Cadeus soon felt a headache developing in between his forehead.

“300 is a very rough figure. If you want to impress me you better come up with a more definite figure.”

“I, am, exactly, 300 this year! In addition to that, 114 years of teaching experiences. I’ve taught Mages who are far older than you boy!”

“So… to sum it up, you are a self proclaimed loli dragon teacher who claims to be 300 years old… just wow…”

The self proclaimed loli dragon teacher gave him another kick to the shin.

“Ouch…”

“NOT SELF PROCLAIMED!! I AM A 300 YEAR OLD DRAGON, WHO IS ALSO AN EDUCATOR OF THIS ACADEMY!!!”

Kids these days had such wild imaginations…

Cadeus sighed.

“All right little girl, enough daydreaming. Come, let’s see if we can find your guardian or escort.”

At that very instance, Cadeus could feel a ridiculous amount of Grey Magic pouring out from within that small girl.

“You… brought this upon yourself.”

“Wait… what?”

The ground around Cadeus shook, and before he knew it, there was a large flash of explosion.

When he got up again, the little girl stomped off in anger.

Just as he was wondering what had happened, Cadeus found himself sitting at the center of a blast range. His clothes and the surrounding grass were all covered in… what… soot?

Just as he was about to get up, Vel materialized in mid air and gazed down upon him.

“Nope, I’m fine. Just um… make yourself invisible again.”

Vel soon disappeared out of sight.

Looking at himself, Cadeus could only sigh at his sorry state.

“Well… I guess I need to change.”

TOA

By the time he got to his friends in Corals, he was already an hour late.

Sing and Nadav had already finished their plates, and even the fairy was slowly taking her time to nimble at the remaining bread crusts.

“Hi guys.”

“Wow… here comes the guy who woke me up two hours earlier than usual before dashing off. I know you got something to do so early in your Colour Sector. But what took you so long?”

“Sigh…”

Slightly irritated with that had happened, Cadeus dropped next to Nadav and reached for his plate of pancakes and sausages.

“Things were fine. That is, until I got a row with a kid.”

““…What?””

“You heard me. I got a row with a kid.”

The two friends took a few seconds to process the information.

Unconvinced, Nadav opened his mouth again.

“How the heck did that happen? I never thought you would be one to pick a fight with a kid.” Nadav asked.

Without looking, Cadeus chewed a large piece of the pancake before answering the question.

“The kid insisted that she’s a teacher and a 300 year old dragon. When I refused to believe her, she triggered an explosion. I had to return to the dormitory to change my uniform.”

Nadav slipped his grip and his drinking cup fell onto the ground.

Staring at him, Cadeus and Sking knew that something was amiss.

“You know this girl?” Sing asked.

“Pink hair, with small black horns?” Nadav asked to confirm.

“Yup you definitely know her. Who is she?” Cadeus said.

“That’s… Educator Florensia. She’s the Educator in charge of my Colour Class.”

Cadeus widened his eyes with disbelief.

“So she’s really an Educator?”

“Yeah.”

“Even though she’s a kid?”

“Yeh… She’s surprisingly very knowledgeable.”

Cadeus and Sing exchanged glances before returning their gazes to Nadav.

“Why have we not heard of this?”

“Well… Educator Florensia is an interesting case, but overtime we got used to her small physic.”

Nadav scratched his chin.

“I guess we eventually accepted her as our teacher and simply forgot that she was an abnormally. After all, we only get to see her in our Colour Sector. Oh! You guys will want to hear this. When we first saw her, we all thought it was an Academy joke, but she soon got our attention when she got serious.”

“What did she do?” Sing asked.

“She blew up the class by igniting a gas spell.”

It was indeed something out of the blue, but not uncommon in the magic world. Cadeus surely would still rank Educator Garth’s Elemental Construct above what Educator Florensia supposedly did to her own students.

“So she’s strong?” Sing asked again.

“Yes… seriously strong. There was a point in time where a group of mischievous students tried to pull a kids prank on her.”

“What happened?” Cadeus asked.

“They soon suffered under an entangle spell that caused them to hang upside down from the ceiling. After three hours or so, they lost consciousness.”

Thank goodness Vel did not take any action against that kid. Cadeus thought.

“So… in the end she’s a just genius kid?”

“Yeah, a very genius kid. With a very interesting sense of ego.”

“Ego? Well I can’t say no to that. She keeps insisting that she had over a hundred years experience of teaching.”

“Actually… about that… you better believe it. Apparently she taught my dad when he was a young student too.”

Both Cadeus and Sing gave Nadav the look that totally said that they did not appreciate the joke.

“I’m serious! When I told my dad about her, he went all nostalgic and even asked if she’s still 150 cm!”

Cadeus turned to Sing.

“What do you think?”

“I don’t know… maybe she suffered a paranormal incident in the past that tampered with her growth?”

“Hm… that could explain the height and the immaturity, but what about the claim that she taught for a hundred years?”

“She’s a child. Maybe she has been around for a couple of decades, but I don’t think she’s that old.”

“So… it’s just a kid’s wild claims?”

“I think so…”

As they look to Nadav for some of his input, Nadav could only shake his head with uncertainly as well.

Taking a few more big mouthfuls, Cadeus quickly finished his breakfast.

Wiping his mouth with a piece of tissue, Cadeus decided to tell his friends about Vel.

“Well, putting aside the kid teacher, I got some news for the two of you.” Cadeus added.

““Oh?””

Cadeus edged closer towards the center of the table. In seeing him doing so, the other two edged themselves closer as well.

“I have a familiar now.”

“Really?” “What?”

Nadav blinked his eyes before getting a short brainwave.

“Oh! Is that why you left for your Colour Sector earlier this morning?”

“Partly.” Cadeus nodded.

Cadeus sat up straight, and turned his head to the side where Vel was hovering in the air.

He still could not see Vel, but he knew where it was.

Reaching out with his right hand, he brought his palm to the back of Vel’s head and guided the familiar down to the table right in front of him.

In seeing Cadeus reach out to the open air, Nadav and Sing could only tilt their heads with curiosity.

With Vel directly in front of him, Cadeus rested his hands on its soft head before giving a command.

“Vel. Materialize.”

Vel soon revealed itself.

At the instance it appeared, the two friends moved back slightly due to the sudden surprise. Even the fairy fluttered its wings in panic and quickly retreated to the back of Sing’s head.

“What the…” Nadav said.

Unable to find the words, Sing could only stare at Vel with a blank expression.

“Guys, this is Vel. It’s my familiar.”

It took several seconds of silence for the two friends to absorb the current flow of events.

Slowly, the fairy peeked over Sing’s head and maintained a level of gaze against Vel. It’s vigilant gaze and fluttering wings only reinforced it’s caution and uncertainty.

Unsure of what to do, Vel could only move it’s single eye around left and right.

“What… is that?” Nadav asked.

“I already told you. This is Vel. It’s my familiar.”

“Yes I know that. What I am trying to ask is… what kind of magical creature is it? I am feeling a familiar sense of uneasiness, and I think I can still remember where I got that feeling from.”

Ah… Nadav must be referring to the passive aura Vel was giving out as a Wraith. Since Vel was giving out a similar magical presence as the overpowered Wraith they had encountered in the catacombs, it might have forced Sing and Nadav to put up their guard. It may not project the same ridiculous amount of dread, but even the small fragment of it could cause people to feel slightly uncomfortable on first encounter.

“You’re probably just imagining things.”

“Imagining things? That familiar stinks of Dark Magic!”

Cadeus rolled his eyes.

“Sigh… What else is there to expect? If you must recall I’m Dark as well.”

“…Does it bite?”

“No, it won’t.”

Nadav edged further from Cadeus.

“You sure?”

“Yes.”

“Is this some sort of trick?”

“I’ll make it a trick if you keep this up.”

Meanwhile, Sing had a more sensible question.

“That’s… a Wraith isn’t it?”

As usual, Sing was spot on.

“Yes.”

While Sing remained entirely composed, Nadav was this close to jumping off from the bench.

“Relax Nadav, Vel’s friendly.”

“Friendly? Do you remember what Sing and I had to experience when we encountered that wraith in the catacombs? We can’t move, we can’t cast our magic, and to make things worst we can’t even breathe! Even that Enforcer guy had to teleport us out before we hit the worst!”

“Yes, I know what you guys been through, but don’t worry. Vel won’t attack you or anything.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“That’s because it listens to me.”

“Ha, ha. Very funny.”

Nadav stared at Vel suspiciously for a few more seconds. But in seeing Cadeus behaving so casually right next to it, he eventually let his own guard down.

“So that thing is the same thing as the thing that almost killed us in the catacombs?”

“More or less. But it’s not as ridiculously strong as the one in the catacombs.”

“Will it eventually evolve into a thing that might match or outclass the thing that almost killed us?”

“I don’t know. Maybe.”

“Oh wait! On this thought, perhaps you can get the thing to evolve into the thing, we can get the thing to fight the thing and we’ll see which thing will survive! If your thing could beat the thing, we’ll get a thing that will be totally badass! And then the thing will fight all the battles for us during the initiate tournament!”

“…Your English has suddenly evolved into something incomprehensible.”

Feeling a vibe coming from Vel, Cadeus looked down to see it fixating its gaze onto Nadav. Even though he can’t see it’s face, he could tell that it had narrowed it’s eye in disgust towards Nadav. It must really dislike being identified as ‘the thing’ when Cadeus already gave it a proper name.

Meanwhile, Sing had her attention on Vel all this time. When Vel turned to Sing, the two of them exchanged eye contact and maintained a quiet distance. Although Vel held Sing with complete indifference, Sing was slightly disturbed.

“How did you come by to procure a wraith? I thought wraiths couldn’t be familiars?”

“What do you mean Sing?” Nadav asked.

“Wraiths are powerful magical beings. You can’t just form a contract with one unless you are willing to pay some sort of heavy price.”

“Is that true?” Nadav asked Cadeus.

“Yes. Sing is right.”

At least for the conventional contacts. Blood contracts? No… He added in his head.

Stroking Vel’s head, Cadeus answered as simply as he could.

“Vel is a special case. I made it using my own blood.”

This answer took Sing back by a tiny notch.

“You created a wraith?”

“Yes.”

Nadav widened his eyes with surprise.

“You can actually do something like that?!”

“Yes.”

“I thought that kind of stuff only exist in video games! You mean to tell me you can actually create a wraith in real life?”

“Yes…”

“How did you do it?” Sing asked.

“I made Vel with my own blood.”

“Just with that?”

“Well… there are other ingredients involved.”

Sing sat straight and folded her arms. She did not like where this was going.

“What else?”

Cadeus paused for a moment.

This was the tricky part.

How was he going to explain it to her?

He could always be honest and tell her up front that he used a baby’s corpse. But given her strong moral principles, would Sing left him off after knowing what he used to bring artificial life into this world?

Cadeus was highly reluctant to touch that hornet’s nest.

But under Sing’s pressuring gaze, it could not be helped.

“Well… you see, I – ”

A sudden surge of energy could be felt.

It wasn’t that strong, but it was brief enough to stop Cadeus from talking.

Turning to the source, the three friends redirected their attention to the wraith.

Vel was staring at Sing intently to the point of open hostility. It did not take long for the trio to figure that it had the purest intentions to attack Sing.

“Um… Cadeus?”

“Vel, stop it.”

The hostile aura faded, but Vel still maintained a vigilant gaze onto Sing.

“It doesn’t like you~” Nadav added with sarcasm.

Sing frowned at him for stating the obvious.

Taking his thoughts away from his two friends, Cadeus looked down at Vel. He really felt curious as to why it suddenly changed it’s behaviour. Sensing it’s Master’s attention, the wraith ceased staring at Sing and twisted it’s body around so that it could get a clear view of it’s Master.

Looking at Vel in the eye now, Cadeus could sense nothing but attentive obedience.

It’s as if the singular eye was constantly portraying ‘what is my master’s bidding?’.

Well… as long as it did not start attacking Sing out of nowhere.

Caressing it’s cheek, Cadeus placed an index finger on his lips as an indication for it to stand down.

Vel got the message and nodded.

Looking at the two of them, Nadav paused intently before opening his mouth.

“So… what could it do?”

“I made it to be an utility familiar. So far it has the capability to become my inventory bag.”

“Meaning?”

To demonstrate, Cadeus ceased caressing Vel and brought a hand up before it.

“Bag.”

A small black hole soon materialized from the center of Vel’s small body. Vel reached for within and pulled out Cadeus’s sling bag.

“OOHHH!!!!”

Both Sing and Nadav expressed surprise and genuine curiosity.

Having proved his point, Cadeus flicked a finger and Vel kept his sling bag again.

“You mean it teleported your bag and stuff to a private dimension that only it could access?”

“Seems like it.”

“What did you use to give it that ability?” Sing asked out of curiosity.

“I used one of the Gordon Mirror fragments as a key ingredient.”

“Oh. Now that’s innovative.”

Nadav however, was largely impressed.

“How did you manage to make something so cool?! Do you realize what a huge convenience this is? You can literally travel anywhere without carrying anything!”

“Yeah… precisely the point.”

“Is there a space limit in there?”

“Not that I know off.”

“What else could it do?”

“I don’t know yet. The ritual procedures indicate that certain abilities have to be discovered.”

“Aw… shame. It would definitely be great if you can control what your familiar can do.”

The fairy flew to Nadav’s head and gave him a kick to the cheek.

“Ouch! Hey!”

“You deserve that one.” Sing added.

Cadeus silently agreed.

TOA

After taking breakfast, the trio prepared themselves to move to a different part of the island Academy.

Today, it’s Arcane Warfare, a subject dedicated to teaching the art of combat magic.

The three of them did not have to split up in accordance to their colours.

As combat magic was a universal topic, there’s no need for colour restrictions. The Academy encourages students to mingle with people from other colours when it comes to this particular subject in order for the students to develop their fundamental understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the three colours of magic.

Needless to say, most students were skeptical about this and kept to those who shared their own colour of magic, particularly the Dark Mages.

But the Educators had long expected this skepticism and managed to manipulate the entire cohort of around 200 students to mingle with a special class arrangement.

In order to satisfy teaching the huge number of students, the Academy arranged lessons in the form of sign up classes. Students were free to choose which group of Educators they want to learn from by signing their names on a universal pamphlet. The mixed classes would be held at the Arena Stadium, or the four different combat halls throughout the Academy.

The classes were not definitely set. As such, students must sign their names continuously in order to secure their Educators.

This arrangement had its ups and downs.

The good part of it was the uncertainty in regards to the attendees. Students who had to sign up their names would not be aware of the other attendees’ colour alignment. Even if they could sign up with their friends who shared the same colour of magic, they would not know who else would be showing up for the pamphlet only reveals how many slots were left. This forces the students to mingle with mages from different colours and it helps them to get used to being with other mages.

The downside to this arrangement was the freedom of choice. While students were free to choose whichever class they wish to go, those who were more confident in combat magic tend to avoid going to these classes since it’s not entirely compulsory to keep a fixed number of attendance. Well, as long as they managed to pass their trials, the Educators did not mind. After all, a mage, regardless of age, was responsible for learning to control his own magic.

To Cadeus and his friends, the Educators did not really matter. Since they spend most of their time together, it’s better for the three of them to be in the same class to learn the same things in order to develop their capabilities as a group. That was why, whenever they sign up for these classes, they would sign it up together as a trio regardless of which group of Educators was in charge.

“Now let’s see… where is today’s venue?” Cadeus said.

“The Arena Stadium.”

“Ah… all right.”

Five mintues later, the trio were at the Arena Stadium. Only that this time, the the entire year had gathered into one single location instead of splitting into the different classes.

“What the… why is everyone here?” Nadav asked.

“Maybe there’s an announcement.” Sing suggested.

Cadeus sighed.

“I hate crowds.”

Looking around, Cadeus could see the groups of people moving in their own little groups. Some Greys mingle with Whites, but the Darks always have their own soft corners.

“I’ll go ask around, see what the others have to say.” Nadav said.

“I’ll do the same. See you guys back here at this exact spot.” Sing followed.

The two (not forgetting the fairy who always followed Sing) soon departed looking for their various other friends.

Looking around, Cadeus soon noticed that he was alone.

Well… not entirely alone, he still had Vel hovering right next to him.

“Hm… I’ll just stay here then.”

While waiting, Cadeus reached out to Vel and guided it to his torso. As he hugged Vel, he caressed its cheek with his right index finger.

“Well… I guess it’s just you and me Vel.”

Vel simply nodded whilst enjoying it’s Master’s touch.

Cadeus was just about to enjoy this quiet time alone before someone interrupted him with a slap onto the shoulder.

“Yo!”

It was Jouna.

“Hi Jouna. Where’s Susan and Padrela?”

Jouna pointed behind her, and soon Jouna and Padrela were seen coming towards them.

“Hi Susan, Padrela.”

““Hi Cadeus.””

Vel looked up to them with it’s single eye. When the three girls noticed it, they stared at it blankly.

“Cadeus… what… is that?” Jouna pointed.

“Hm? Oh. This is Vel. It’s my familiar.”

The trio spent a few seconds to absorb this in.

“Oh wow! This is so cool!” Jouna cried.

She quickly edged forward.

“May I touch it?”

“You can try.”

As Jouna moved her index finger forward, Vel showed signs of discomfort. Cadeus could feel it edging away in an attempt to escape a stranger’s touch. But with his arms around it, Vel could not leave. When Jouna touched its cheek, Vel closed it’s eyes shut like a little kid reluctant to eat his vegetables.

“So… so soft…”

“Really?”

Padrela soon came forward with the same interest in her eyes.

The two then spent the next few seconds poking Vel’s cheek, much to it’s discomfort.

“…So cute.” Padrela commented.

Jouna became the same.

“So cuuuttttee!!!!!”

Vel could no longer yield under the increasing pressure. It soon warped itself out of Cadeus’s grip and retreated behind Cadeus’s head. Grasping his hair, Vel loomed over his head and spied on the two girls vigilantly. Now surprisingly, his hair didn’t hurt at all. Cadeus could only feel a soft sensation akin to a cushion hat on his head.

“Aw… it escaped.” Jouna pouted.

“Of course it did. It dislikes being touched by others.”

“But it likes being touched by you because you are the Master?”

“Maybe, I guess so.”

“Wow that’s just so cool! Now I can’t wait to get my own familiar!!”

Cadeus could still feel Vel frowning over this slight inconvenience. But that soon changed when Cadeus reached up for its head. Staring at its Master’s hand, Vel allowed Cadeus to grab it. Pulling Vel back down to his torso, the familiar soon relaxed when Cadeus gently caressed it’s head with his left hand.

Staring at this scene, Padrela tilted her head to the side before asking.

“What kind of magical creature is it?”

“I would say that it’s a wraith.”

“““A wraith?”””

The three girls stared at Vel with a bit of disbelief.

Well… that’s something not surprising.

Cadeus doubt that they had seen a wraith before, so they must have a different image of what meeting a wraith would be like. Besides, even if they did hear of a wraith’s physical characteristics, Vel presented only a limited number of such physical traits.

“Well… if Vel is not a wraith, it’s at least something along the lines I guess…”

“No.” Jouna shook her head.

“That’s a wraith all right.”

“You’ve met one before?”

“Yes. Do you remember I told you that I accidentally triggered a spiral of magical events back in my hometown?”

“Of course.”

“Well… one of the paranormal triggers instigated the birth of a wraith.”

“Ouch…”

“Yeah…”

Jouna stared at Vel with interest.

“But compared to that wraith, your’s is a lot more docile.”

Vel gazed at Jouna vigilantly, but not as strongly as before.

Smiling, Padrela opened her mouth again.

“It just warped. What else can it do?”

“It’s an inventory bag. It’ll keep my belongings in a small dimension of it’s own.”

“Oh! That’s very convenient! How did you come by such a familiar?”

“I made it.”

“What?” “You what?”

While Padrela’s face remained relatively neutral, Jouna gave Cadeus a look full of skepticism. It looked like they did not believe that Cadeus made Vel.

Susan, who remained silent all this while, could guess what might had happened.

“You went through a Dark Mutation ritual?”

“Yeah, sort of.”

“When?”

“Yesterday.”

“After you spoke to me?”

Cadeus shook his head.

“No. Much later. I went to the Lux detroth booth like you suggested in the evening. There was a Master Zelketh. He helped me out.”

“Ah… that would explain things. Master Zelketh is a very nice guy. He’s passionate and kind at the same time.”

Susan took the story neatly. That’s great. Although Cadeus did not tell the entire truth, letting Susan assume that Master Zelketh was definitely better. Not only would she not suspect that he did it alone, it would also really saved him a lot of explaining.

“Is that the guy with the glowing insect eye?” Jouna asked Susan.

“Yes. The one you initially thought was creepy.”

Just as the noise around the entire arena was growing continuously due to the various other conversations, a loud voice soon silenced the entire cohort from the upper platform.

“All right! Everyone settle down please!”

The majority of the students ceased their conversations. Everyone soon turned their attention to the source.

Standing on the upper platform were the Educator staff of Arcane Warfare. Educator Amelia, Educator Kris, Educator Nara, Educator Larxus, Educator Thulma, Educator Nisa, Educator Raiga and Educator Duma.

The one who spoke was Educator Kris. He’s a Grey Mage who had been teaching Arcane Warfare in the Academy for almost two decades straight.

For this many Educators to gather, Cadeus tilted his head to the side and whispered to Padrela.

“Is this going to be what I’m thinking?”

“Most likely.”

Educator Kris waited for the rest of the murmurs to die down before beginning.

“Within the next few weeks, we will begin the initiate tournaments.”

Many students soon looked at each other showing signs of surprise and excitement.

The initiate tournament is one of two yearly tournaments that would happen in the Academy. It’s a tournament that’s used as a grading ground for the teachers to grasp the student’s current capabilities as a studying Mage. Students were encouraged to use all sorts of magical abilities, skills, equipments and techniques, and they would be marked based on how well they perform. While this tournament

It’s also a platform for students to get student rankings. Students who excel exceptionally well during the tournament will be short listed and given a rank. If any succeed in doing so, he or she would get some neat bonuses. Cadeus did not know much of the privileges that came with student ranking, but the logic was to promote friendly competition and push students to excel.
Truth to be told, Cadeus could not care much for these rankings. He saw no need of it, plus it was not something that seemed that big of a deal. However, there was no way out of this tournament. Even if Cadeus managed to get some random number of a rank, tournament participation was still compulsory. The only way to avoid this tournament, is to be part of the top ten or so… wait… was it top twenty instead? Oh hell whatever. Cadeus did not care either way.

Despite the seriousness around this trial, many students were long aware that this trial exists only for the various Masters and Educators to spot any interesting talent. Should there be any students the Masters believed to have certain promises to their respective Specialism, they would be penned for note should the need arise in the future for any new apprenticeship.

Before the students could get out of control, Educator Kris quickly got their attention.

“Quiet, I’m not done yet. Now I know you are all excited, but please listen to me so that you don’t miss out important information.”

The murmurs died down again.

“By the end of this week, we will have specific dates. In the meantime, everyone please make full use of this time to sort out your groupings. The maximum number of applicants per group is three and the minimum number is two. Make sure you get the group registration done by next Friday. Students who fail to do so will be randomly assigned to groups based on drawing lots.”

“Three… the sacred magic number. They really must love that number.” Cadeus uttered.

Educator Kris continued.

“In addition, for this event, Academy has authorized usage of Arcane Artifacts.”

Murmurs of excitement could instantly be heard.

“Arcane Artifacts? Meaning the Educators approve of us using magical weapons in the tournament?” Padrela uttered.

“Seems like it.” Cadeus followed.

“Ha…ha ha ha hahahahahahaha.”

Cadeus and Padrela turned. Jouna’s eyes were burning with passion. She really must like the idea of using Arcane Artifacts in magic combat. Susan on the other hand, caught their gaze and simply smiled back.

Educator Kirk continued.

“There are no restrictions to your Arcane Artifact of choice. It can be long ranged, closed quarter, enhancement or even strategic. Once selected, you must also submit your Arcane Artifact for screening in order for it to be approved by the Academy. You have two weeks to get this done, and the deadline is Friday two weeks from now. If any of you have any questions, we’ll be around to assist you. Each student can have only one, I repeat, one Arcane Artifact.”

“Does this mean that we get to have the day off?” Jouna whispered.

“Seems like it.” Cadeus replied.

“Now. The Archmage is here, and he would like to make an announcement.”

Small whispering noises could be heard instantly as the students tried to understand what was going on.

An old man with came to the center of the stage. He’s in his late sixties, slightly hunched with his hands behind his back. He had a moustache, a short stubbed beard and short grey hair. He might appear to be a humble old man, but the bright powerful runes glowing on his aged white robes suggests otherwise. The old man’s name is Gunther Eliseum Ve Chrozone. The Whites had the habit of calling him ‘The Wise Old Geezer’, but everybody else, he’s the Archmage in charge of this Academy.

When he became the center of attention, everyone became silent.

But before the old Archmage could begin, three more individuals came up to flank him. They were the Masters in charge of all three colour sectors. In that retrospect, they were the Masters responsible for all student safety and conduct for their respective colour of magic.

Standing at the Archmage’s right was the Master of Beato Caeli, Faltis Zulgar Ve Qullis. He’s dressed formally with a White nobleman’s suit, a white cravat tie, a white long coat and black shoes. For a man in his mid forties, his muscular build portrayed an unusually high level of fitness. He stood tall well over 190 cm, enough to rival Acriscius in terms of height. With that scar over his intimidating face, Cadeus sometimes feel that he’s looking at a mafia boss. Even Acriscius seemed like a minor thug as compared to this guy.

At the Archmage’s left was the Master of Rigor-atque Cinereo, Master Arianna. Dressed in a sapphire one-piece dress to match her long blue hair, she radiated an air of youth and highborn nobility. She may look 25, but there’s a growing conviction amongst the Grey students that she might actually be way older than she looks. Of course, none of them dared to ask for her actual age. Doing so would definitely be suicidal. Despite her presumed connections to Zeffernon’s high nobility, she’s actually a mage of unknown origins, which was kind of ironic given the fact that all Masters employed by the Academy had to have some sort of credible resume.

Last but not least, standing next to Master Arianna was the Master of Tenebris Vacuum, Morgan ve Fortzen. She’s known as ‘The Reaper’ by the Adults. She’s dressed in a black tube top, a black sports skirt, black stockings, black high heel leather boots with a sleeveless grey coat. This odd choice of fashion only reflects her sporty character, for she preferred wearing simple clothing to minimize disruption in movements. In addition to being the Master of Tenebris Vacuum, she’s also the Master in charge of Arcane Warfare. If she could shoulder the double responsibility of overseeing one of the most dangerous places on the island, and one of the most dangerous physical classes, it really speaks for her combat ability.

At the overwhelming presence of the three Masters, all the students instantly kept quiet.

They all kept quiet, but most of them were thinking the same thing.

Why the heck are there so many big shots here?

The Archmage paused for an effect before beginning his speech.

“The Initiate Tournamnent is a tradition. It is a rite of passage students must undertake to further understand what it is to be a Mage. Magic is a gift. It’s a gift we are all born with. However, to be given the ability to manipulate the material world is something not to be taken lightly. That which can bring great happiness, can bring great despair as well. Noble or Commoner, Pure Blooded or Mixed, all are not excused to neglect mastering their potential. This Initiate Tournament will test your ability to control this gift. It will be a challenge to many of you, but do not shy away from it. In fact, make full use of this opportunity to find out what you are, where you currently are, and proceed to think about what you want to be. Remember, the whole purpose of this Academy is to hone your gifts. I strongly encourage all of you to put in your best, and I can’t wait to see what skills and talents this year will provide.”

The entire arena soon burst with claps and applauses. Some students found it inspiring and clapped with enthusiasm. Others who were less affected, like Cadeus, clapped simply just to show some appreciation.

With that, the Archmage retired, but the presence of the three Masters still silenced the students.

Educator Kris came to the center again.

“There’s no class today. The Archmage has authorized us to dismiss you so that you can spend some time in the city to have a look at the various Arcane Artifacts. Please choose wisely. Your Arcane Artifact of choice will deeply affect your performance during the Initiate Tournament. I personally recommend that you do not make a hasty decision and really spend some time to look at the various options available to you. Make sure that you remember the deadlines. The staff will put them up by the end of the day in the dormitory notice boards.”

Educator Kris turned to the three Masters.

“Is there anything you would like to add?”

All three Masters shook their heads.

“Educators, anything?”

The Educators also shook their heads.

It looks like there’s nothing much to say.

Educator Kris returned his attention to the students.

“All right. Dismissed.”

Noise returned to the whole arena as the students break up into their excited groups.

“So… we get the day off.” Jouna repeated.

“Seems like it.” Cadeus returned.

Every other student around them had already begun to disperse in their own little groups. About a quarter had already left the venue.

Scanning around him, Cadeus saw that Sing and Nadav still had not returned. He eventually decided to wait for them here first.

“The school is authorizing Arcane Artifacts huh…”

While he continued to hug Vel like a pillow, Cadeus spent some time to ponder about this.

“Hey Cadeus.” Jouna called out.

Cadeus turned.

“Yes?”

“Do you want to team up with Susan?”

“J-Jouna?!”

Susan instantly turned to Jouna with a ‘WHAT ARE YOU DOING!’ look.

“Wouldn’t that be inappropriate? The three of you can easily qualify for a good team.” Cadeus replied.

“I don’t mind, and I’m sure Padrela won’t mind, right Padrela?”

“Mm…” Padrela nodded.

Jouna turned back to Cadeus.

“So how about it? You and Susan pair up. Padrela and I will do the same.”

The main person in question however, did not look comfortable with the idea.

“Um… that… that is…”

Susan really looked like she could not cope with splitting up with her friends.

“Unfortunately, I have to decline. I already have a group with my childhood friends.”

Susan frowned slightly to that remark, but she said nothing.

“Ah… I see. Well, another opportunity then.” Jouna followed.

Susan soon popped in another question.

“What are you going to get as your Arcane Artifact Cadeus? I’m getting – ”

But before she could say any further, Jouna and Padrela both grabbed her by the shoulders and pulled her back.

“Well! I guess that’s the cue for us to leave to get our Arcane Arfitacts! See you soon Cadeus!” Jouna said.

“Yeah… See you.” Padrela added.

“Eh? Eh?”

Perhaps the only one who was caught off guard by this sudden change of event, Susan appeared rather perplexed by the actions of her friends.

But before they could leave, Jouna shot one last look towards Vel.

“And you too cutie.”

Vel frowned slightly towards Jouna.

Jouna and Padrela soon left dragging Susan with them.

TOA

“Ok we are away from him. Let me go you guys!”

Padrela and Jouna soon let go of their friend and gave her some room to sort out her uniform.

When she was done, Susan shot them both an angry glare.

“What was that? That was unnecessary!”

“No… I assure you it’s all the more necessary!” Jouna countered.

“Susan… I know you are concerned as a friend, but isn’t it a little rude to ask him that?” Padrela said.

“Eh? What do you mean?”

“We are all going to fight in the Initiate Tournament. This means that sooner or later we might end up being enemies since we are on opposing teams. I don’t think it is right for us to ask about what Artifact Cadeus plan on getting.”

“I fully agree. I’m sure that Cadeus is a nice guy, but there’s still a chance that he might mindful about it. After all, his choice of artifact might reflect on their team’s strategy. If you are to probe about things casually just like that, he might think you are asking with a hidden motive.”

Only when she heard their logic up to this point, Susan’s face went red with embarrassment.

“I SCREWED UP!!”

She quickly bent her knees and curled herself up. Her hands were this close to tearing her own hair.

“Oh no… I messed up. I messed up terribly… what if he thinks wrong of me?”

Padrela bend her knees and gave her a pat on the back.

“Don’t worry. It’s a small mistake Susan, I’m sure he’ll soon forget it. Besides, when I was observing his reaction earlier, he seem to not mind it.”

“Yeah! Don’t mind, don’t mind! We all have important things to do! If Cadeus is the kind of guy I think he is, he’ll just shelve the majority of our conversation, forget the rest and focus on what he has to do.”

Susan looked up at Jouna.

“You sure?”

“Yes I’m sure! Now stop thinking about it and lets get going to the city. I really want to get my hands on that amplifier.”

TOA

At the sight of their leaving figures, Vel shrugged it’s entire body and closed it’s eye, resigning itself to the comforting touch that came in the form of it’s Master’s embrace.

Alone again, Cadeus redirected his eyes to the stadium to see if any teacher had remained.

The two Masters and some Educators had left.

There were only several Educators and Master Morgan…

When his gaze fell upon Master Morgan, Cadeus soon found that she was staring back at him.

As the two exchanged eye contact, Master Morgan soon turned and left the stage.

…

…

…

“That’s… not good.”

From her gaze, Cadeus could tell that she had been observing him for quite some time. Since when? Since the Archmage’s speech?

“Why would she even observe me?”

Just as Cadeus was pondering about this, he felt a chill behind his back. When he turned to look, his body was soon covered in some sort of magical sphere. Everything suddenly felt cold, and humid.

Something was not right.

Sensing the danger it’s Master might be in, Vel quickly opened it’s eye and quickly casted a rune on Cadeus’s student robe. But it was already too late. Something happened, and Vel could not complete it’s spell.

Cadeus found himself staring at a black ghostly figure.

It had the silhouette of a man, but it had no face. It had a black shadowy veil around it and it also projected a familiar eerie aura.

“A… a wraith?”

It was a wraith, but it was not as dangerous as the one Cadeus saw in the catacombs.

Cadeus wanted to react. He soon attempted to release his grip on Vel and cast a defensive barrier. However, he soon felt that he was under some sort of spell. There’s a supernatural force interfering with his senses. He could not move his arms, nor even his fingers. There’s no way he could cast any spells.

Whatever spell was on him, it was on Vel as well. Cadeus could sense it’s struggle trying to cast something.

Cadeus quickly looked around him.

What is this wraith doing here? Why isn’t anyone taking note of this thing? Shouldn't everyone around him feel the same disturbing presence that wraiths normally give out?

Cadeus soon noticed that the colour around him had a tainted blue to it. The spherical barrier he was in must have altered the environment. That must be how the wraith could move around undetected. That spherical barrier must have contained it’s presence.

The wraith raised a finger and pointed towards Cadeus’s forehead.

“My office, later.”

Master Morgan’s voice resonated in his head.

The wraith then retreated.

The magical sphere left Cadeus and he could feel the warmth of his surroundings again.

Cadeus soon found himself taking in deep breaths. That was a terrifying experience. For a second there he thought the wraith was going to kill him.

“My office later… Master Morgan wants to see me?”

While pondering on this, what soon got Cadeus’s attention was the fact that the wraith said Master Morgan. Was the wraith was acting on Master Morgan’s orders? Was it bound to Master Morgan in any way? Was it a familiar?

If it were so, she used a very unconventional method just to pass him a message.

Was it something important? Did she do this on purpose so that he would understand the severity of overlooking her request?

Feeling a shift between his arms, Cadeus looked down to see Vel looking up towards him. It’s small hands were pinching his blazer, with it’s prying eye, the familiar looked like it want to ask if everything was ok.

Smiling, Cadeus stoke it’s head. That was when he felt the sweat in his robes.

“Hey. Imposter.”

“Ah… F***.”

Cadeus closed his eyes shut.

He slowly turned his head and slowly opened his eyes to a person he’s most reluctant to meet.

Claire Rrogust ve Chroma, a certain haughty b**** dressed in her usual customized uniform.

“What is it Claire?”

“Still no manners, as usual you are the…”

Claire failed to finish her sentence because she noticed Vel in his arms.

“…”

“…”

“…”

“What is that?”

“Vel, disappear.”

Vel vanished into thin air. It’s not visible, but Cadeus could feel it’s presence right next to him.

Cadeus folded his arms.

“Yes Claire?”

“What’s Vel?”

“You need something?”

Claire shifted her hip to the side, folded her own arms, and frowned.

“Ha, ha, Very funny. Now answer my question.”

“I don’t know what are you talking about.”

“I’m talking about the thing you were hugging just now you insignificant idiot.”

Cadeus frowned back at her, but that immediately changed when he felt a hostile pressure brewing from Vel. As he paid attention to his familiar, Cadeus could tell that Vel was preparing a spell to attack.

Uh oh… not good… He thought.

If this keeps up, it might attack Claire as a response. Cadeus doubted that Vel would act so rashly, but he did not want to risk the possibility of it ever harming a Greater Noble. As much as he disliked Claire, Cadeus was also mindful of the possible dangers her parents could do to him if he ever brought harm to her.

Although he’s reluctant, Cadeus soon deduced that it would be best to just bear with Claire for now.

Sighing, he motioned for Vel to reappear. Hugging it in his arms, he gave a brief introduction.

“This is Vel. It’s my familiar.”

Claire stared at it. She took a moment to have a first hand observation of it’s magical features.

“Is that… a wraith?”

Wow… she’s quick.

“Good for you to notice.”

Claire soon frowned.

“You… just what did you get yourself involve with? Did you make some sort of contract that binds you to this spirit?”

“None of the sort.”

“Don’t lie to me.”

There’s a strong hint of venom in her voice. She really must assume he was lying.

“Wraiths don’t follow people on a whim. They are far too powerful for that sort of thing. The only way to gain its attention would be to have some sort of paranormal bond or contract, and most bonds of the like are never without great penalties or consequences.”

As expected of a well educated noble. She sure knows her stuff.
Cadeus stroked Vel’s head.

“Again, none of the sort. The only bond between us is master and familiar.”

“And how did you come about with this bond?”

“I created it.”

Claire rolled her eyes and sigh. ‘This is obviously nonsense’ was strongly written on her face.

“You don’t believe me?”

“Being a Pure Blood does not make you a genius.”

Cadeus walked closer to her until he’s close enough for a small whisper.

“What about if I tell you I made Vel using the Black Book.”

Claire widened her eyes.

“Zelnarius Pride ve Lu’s?”

“Yes.”

“Ah… ah…”

She immediately understood the implications.

Curiosity returned in her eyes. She took a step back and took some time to look at Vel.

Vel stared at her with a slight frown, as if to say ‘Don't you dare touch my Master!’.

“Cute…”

“Come again?”

“Nothing.”

“So? What do you want?”

Claire stared at him as if she forgot something. But she soon clicked her tongue in disgust.

“Tch! I can’t believe I must ask this of you.”

“Ask me what?”

“Team up with me.”

“I refuse.”

“I’ll strike off three favours if you do so.”

What?

Cadeus paused in consideration.

Three favours… That’s very tempting, and on top of that Claire was a very capable Mage. If Cadeus team up with her, she would be a big boon if he faced off against Acriscius. However, despite this tempting offer, Cadeus had to decline in consideration of his friends.

“No.”

Claire was not that surprised.

“How… unfortunate.”

Hang on…

This was strange indeed.

Claire was not surprised with the immediate response. In addition to that, she quickly provided a good bargaining chip in response. Why would she do such a thing?

“Can’t you ask someone else?”

“No. I’d rather not reveal my abilities to strangers.”

Meaning you don’t want to reveal what a bitch you can be to people who don’t necessarily know you. Cadeus quietly thought.

“Besides, it’s definitely more fun ordering you around.”

Cadeus pretended he didn’t hear that.

“What about Davian and Acriscius?”

“You dimwit. Acriscius already has his lackeys to fill in the numbers for himself. Davian on the other hand, probably teamed up with the members of the Student Council.”

“Couldn’t you ask someone else?”

“No.”

Wow… she’s really out of options here.

“Claire, could it be that you don’t have any frie – ”

“Shut it.”

Cadeus quickly closed his mouth.

Once she realized that she could not get what she wanted, Claire turned and left Cadeus without saying another word. “Claire, one more thing.”

Claire turned to face him again.

“What? Do you have a change of heart? Too bad imposter. I’ll only strike one favour off this time.”

“Not that.”

“Then what? If it’s a question I’ll have you owe me another one.”

Cadeus shot the bat out without caring.

“White skull with a white lily. What noble family is that?”

Claire blinked her eyes for several seconds.

“What… did you just say?”

“White skull with a white lily. What noble family is that?”

Claire widened her eyes with surprise, but she soon frowned.

“You… do you have a death wish?”

“What?”

Claire walked back closer to him and gave him an extremely serious look.

“What did you do?”

“Huh?”

“What, did, you, do?”

“…Nothing?”

“Nothing? If you really did nothing why did you bring that family up?”

“I just saw someone with that symbol.”

“Who?”

“…”

“Cadeus. This is very serious. Who did you saw?”

“There was a girl around our age. Pure Blood. White Hair and everything.”

Claire sucked in air through her nose in shock. It’s definitely a very composed shock, but it was enough to tell Cadeus that he had met someone he probably shouldn’t.

“Who is she?” He asked again.

“The most dangerous Pure Blood of our generation and someone you definitely do not want to cross.”

Claire held her strong gaze.

“Did you do anything to her?”

“No. I did nothing and said nothing. I just happen to see her.”

Claire stared at him for a couple of seconds.

She soon breathed a sigh of relief.

“Good. It seems you have done nothing.”

“I’m not that stupid Claire.”

“Yes you are. You have no idea you are this close to getting killed. Your ignorance does you little credit.”

Cadeus ignored her.

“So, what noble house did she come from?”

“House Grave ve Nemosa.”

“As I thought. One of the Greater Noble families…”

“Not just any Greater Noble family. Amongst the five Dark Greater Noble families, it’s currently the most powerful. Our current Magister comes from that family.”

“The Magister?”

Cadeus could not help but gulp a portion of saliva.

“That’s right. So you better keep your distance from her.”

“Right…”

If there were any Mage that wore the definition of absolute power and authority, that Mage would be the Magister. The Magister was the highest position a mage can attain in Otium. In that retrospect, he, or she, was the most powerful Mage on both Zeffernon and on Earth. The Magister was the highest authority within the High Council. While the High Council was made up of High Councilors, the Magister was the head a Councilor Circle. There are three Councilor Circles that made up the High Council, each to represent one of the three Colours of Magic. As such, there could only be three Magisters at once, for each Councilor Circle must have an authority figure.

“Wait… you said that the current Magister comes from House Grave ve Nemosa. Does that mean…”

Claire knew what he was thinking.

“Yes. She’s the Magister’s daughter.”

“…”

I definitely do not want to piss off the father. Cadeus thought.

While Claire was certain that Cadeus managed to get the seriousness of approaching the unknown beautiful girl, she soon realized that Cadeus might have misunderstood the reason behind her cause for concern.

“Do not misunderstand me.”

“What?”

“I’m not asking you to stay clear of her because of the Magister. Sure, that’s one important reason, but the main reason is because she’s the most dangerous Pure Blood you can ever come across.”

“…She dosen’t seem dangerous.”

“You say that because you don't know her.”

“Has she done something mean to you?”

Claire shook her head.

“Not that. Have you seen her use her magic?”

“Magic, as in Blood Gift?”

“Yes.”

Cadeus made a quick thought about that unusual sprain of the ankle he had experience. He was not entirely sure if it was her Blood Gift, so he’s just going to rub it off as a simple spell.

“No.”

“Then clearly you have never seen the scale of her talents. Fine, I can guess that it’s actually a blessing that you never got to see her Blood Gift.”

“And why would that be so?”

“Because if you were to witness her Blood Gift, the only case of that happening would be if she were to use it on you. Trust me. You’ll never want to experience what she could do to you.”

Now this pirked Cadeus’s interest, a Blood gift that could make someone like Claire shrivel in fear?

“…Just what can she do?”

“What all from House Grave ve Nemosa could. Necromancy.”

Cadues blinked his eyes once.

“Just that?”

Claire became extremely furious.
“Oh I’m sorry. Perhaps I did not let that sink deeply in your useless head. I said Necromancy, the ability to manipulate the dead!”

“Yes, I know what Necromancy is all about. I have seen people use it before, and I am not convinced that ability is that much of a deal.”

“Then clearly the people you saw using it are plain amateurish dolts undeserving of their gifts to use Magic!”

It would seem, that True Necromancy was of an entirely different level.

“Point taken… if I see her again, I’ll run.”

“Make sure you do.”

As she turned and left, Cadeus finally turned his attention to the angry wraith within his arms. Now that he paid attention to it, Vel was this close to lashing out against Claire with a hostile spell when it first registered her presence. For some reason it already knew what kind of person she was even though it never met her before. Although Vel did not attack Claire because Cadeus did not command it to, it’s intent and preparation was there. It took quite an effort of gentle cuddling to sooth it’s angry thoughts.

“Don’t mind her Vel. She’s always like that.”

Vel still showed signs of habouring a grudge against Claire. However, with a few more gentle moments of cuddling, it soon shrugged comfortably in his arms.

“Now then… Where are Sing and Nadav?”

TOA

While Cadeus had his episode with Claire, things were developing differently with his two other friends.

For Nadav, the first reaction he had was a ‘Yes! Finally some action!’.

But that soon developed into a ‘Aw… shit… I may have to fight the other nobles…’ when he recalled that the Nobles might participate in the tournament as well.

“Sigh…”

“Why the sigh?”

“Eh?”

Turning to his right, Nadav saw his classmate Simon.

Simon, or Simon ve Boulevard, was a Lesser Noble Nadav met during the first Colour Class. The two of them were not initially friends. But when they had to group together to finish a class assignment, they eventually got along together very well.

“Ah… well, I was thinking about having to fight you and the twins.”

“Aw… how sweet.”

“Are you kidding me?”

Nadav sighed.

“Everyone knows what the twins could do. Even if it’s just the two of them, I doubt my group could beat them.”

“Hm… does this mean that you’ll be teaming up with your childhood friends?”

“Yup. 100%.”

“I see. But if you have that famous White girl and that Pure Dark guy in your group…”

“Yes, I know that the two of them can be awesome, but that does not mean… come to think of it, maybe I might stand a chance.”

Nadav quickly imagined himself standing with a triumphed pose after defeating the twins with Cadeus and Sing at his sides.

“Then again, maybe you won’t. The twins tend to be very deceitful when it comes to using their Blood Gift.”

The image was quickly shattered.

“True…”

Simon smiled.

“Hey, do you want to hear a new rumour?”

“Oh? TELL ME!!!!”

“Ok, ok. This rumour has something to do with the Initiate Tournament. Now word is, it’s going to be held not within the Academy, but somewhere outside of Infinitas.”

“Outside of the Capital? Where?”

“Don’t know. Maybe one of the major city centers.”

“Aw sweet!! Finally we can get a taste of something that’s not normal.”

“Apparently the Educators planned something different for this Initiate Tournament. Instead of the straightforward group vs group, it was speculated that they’ll introduce something else. But then again. Rumours.”

“Hm… something different… like some sort of trial?”

Simon shrugged his shoulders.

“Dunno.”

“Any hidden prizes?”

Simon shook his head.

“I don’t think so.”

“Hm… it will be very cool if we could find special items in the tournament.”

Simon raised his arms and stretched his shoulder joints.

“So… how long do you think you are going to last until you get K.Oed?”

“Dunno. Depends on who we ended up fighting with.”

“Speaking of which, I heard that there’s a very hot headed Greater Dark Noble somewhere in our year.”

“Ah… that um… fire fellow?”

“Fire? Ah! Incendium ve Ustrina… so that hot headed noble is from that family? Yes now that would be a very hard opponent to fight.”

“Geh… just thinking of facing him makes me want to run away.”

“But one of your childhood friend is a Pure Dark friend right? Wouldn’t you stand a chance?”
“Cadeus? Hm… he might stand a chance since he sort of knows his strengths and weaknesses, but I doubt we would last that long against that freak anyway.”

“He’s a freak?”

“Have you seen him?”

“…No?”

“Well, I have. He’s tall, buff and he won’t hesitate to give you a punch.”

“Ouch…”

“There’s still that hot purple chick though… I wonder if we have to face her…”

“Who?”

Nadv shook his head.

“Nothing.”

Simon then changed the topic.

“So I heard the Archmage granted you a familiar. Have you made a choice?”

“Yes! I eventually chose a… hold on a minute. Are we even allowed to use our familiars in the tournament?”

“Well technically we’re not supposed to have familiars at this stage, but I don’t think it should be any issue. The trials we’ll get next year will involve our familiars anyway.”

“Aw… if that’s the case, I feel slightly bad if I use my familiar for the tournament.”

“Nadav… I highly doubt that a new familiar would be suited for combat. Not unless it’s crazily good. So what did you get?”

“A small golem.”

“Ah… from Old Teacher Nartha?”

“Yup.”

“That means you have not received it, yet.”

“Yeah. Ah crap… I forgot to ask her when I should go back to her to collect it.”

“Well, the Initiate Tournament will start in like three weeks time. You’ll get it sooner or later. But it’s just that I’m afraid it won’t be of much use, given its size.”

“Yeah…”

“Hold on… in knowing you, you’ll definitely go for something bizarre. So why a small golem?”

When he heard that, Nadav gave a dejected look.

“Bizarre? Ha ha ha… I did went for Bizarre, but my friends shot it down for me.”

“Ah… that would explain things. Was it the Pure Blood who started all this?”

“Cadeus? Nah… both he and Sing were in it together.”

“I see… Then I’m guessing that you went overboard.”

“Ha ha ha…”

Come to think of it, Simon did not seem to have that many friends.

“Hey Simon.”

“Yes?”

“Who are you going to team up with?”

“Leorana and Marie.”

“Eh? You’re with that Frazer girl and that hooligan?”

“Yes.”

“How the heck did you even end up with them?”

“I happen to work with them during a Board Quest. Turns out they can be good friends if you know what you are doing. Now, I know what you are thinking, but those two are pretty good teammates.”

“…Well. I’m not one to criticize you since I’m the one who’s going up against the two of them, not you.”

“That’s right. I can be pretty smart if I want don’t I?”

“Ha, ha. Very funny.”

Simon soon caught Leorana at the corner of his eye.

“Ah… speaking of which.”

“Eh? What? Is the hooligan behind me?”

“No, not Marie.”

“Ah… then…”

Nadav turned around to see a rather intelligent looking girl in glasses. She definitely waved at the two of them, but her main attention was directed to Simon.

Nadav simply waved back with a smile.

“I guess you are wanted Simon.”

“Yeah. I’ll see you around.”

“See you.”

“I hope we don’t end up as enemies.”

“Oh… I really hope too.”

Simon soon left Nadav’s company.

“Hm… I guess I’ll just head back to Cadeus then…”

Just when he was about to do so, another person soon called out towards him.

“Hey, Nadav!”

“Aye?”

Nadav turned to look.

“Oh! Hey Zelestia.”

Plus she’s not alone. Claudis was right next to her.

Zelestia ve Sophis was a Lesser Noble in Nadav’s class. She’s one of the new nobles, whose noble line only consists of one or two generations. Now, Zelestia may be born on Zeffernon, but she was one of the few Zeffernon born locals who managed to retain their Earthly roots. This was reflective on her attire. Although she was wearing the issued standardized robe uniform, Zelestia had a few of Earth’s contemporary fashion trend. She had a set of headphones, a music iPod device, and a digital watch. Having made a few trips to Earth, she’s one of the few Mages who was up to date in regards to Earth’s technology.

As for Claudis, he’s an interesting case. Instead of being a noble, Claudis was a druid clansman. Nadav forgot which culture his clan originated from, but if he were to pick a good guess it’s celtic. Druid clans, along with various other different shamanic groups all fall under a different system in stark contrast to the Nobles of Zeffernon. Nadav did not know the details, but they were as sophisticated as the Druids who were living in Rigor-atque Cinereo.

“Hi Claudis.”

“Hi…”

“So… What’s up?”

Zelestia was the first to open her mouth.

“Claudis and I are forming a team.”

“Oh? That’s great!”

“Yeah! And we are thinking of asking you to become our third member.”

“Oh that’s great guys. Really, thank you. But… I already have a team.”

“Ah… with your childhood friends? Well, I figured this is going to happen.”

Claudis could only nod his head in agreement.

Zelestia stretched her back.

“Well, at least we tried. We don’t plan on asking anyone else. So if you want to switch teams, just let us know.”

“All right. Thanks guys.”

And with that, Zelestia and Claudis left the Arena Stadium.

With no one else to talk to, Nadav clasped his hands together.

“Now then… I ought to get back to Cadeus.”

TOA

Meanwhile, Sing became the extremely popular girl.

From the instance Educator Kris dismissed them, the surrounding blob of White Mage students flocked to her. Not surprisingly, most of them were guys.

“Sirena, we are short of one person, would you like to – ”

“Sirena, join my group!”

“Sirena, we need an extra hand here!”

While watching this drama happening around her, Sing could not help but curl the side of her lip up in an uncomfortable manner. Needless to say, they all wanted her to join their groups.

At this stage, Sing had mixed feelings for her fellow White students.

Sing was already well aware that most of these people already had the right number of friends to make up their own group. Some of these people were sincere in their request since they may not have the numbers to fit the maximum three-member bill. They could just stick to the minimum two-man team, but perhaps they would feel more confident with a capable third member they could trust.

As for the rest?

Well… let’s just say that it was quite obvious that they were just after her talents.

If Cadeus were here right next to her, he would frown with disapproval and point out the harsh fact that these people were probably the worst.

Oh dear… what to do?

“All right guys, back off. Give Sirena room to breathe.”

Just when she was trying to find a way to get out of this, one of the Lesser Nobles interjected and managed to help her create a space. The crowd of guys moved, and another guy came through with a bunch of girls around him.

When she saw the person who (sort of) saved her from a bind, Sing soon realized that she could be in a more precarious situation than before.

This particular Lesser Noble was Klive ve Reigarus. He was one of the more influential Lesser Nobles of their year.

Oh… when she said influential, Sing was referring to his ability to exercise his powers as a member of a Lesser Noble family.

Klive was the only son and heir to house ve Reigarus. It’s an important Lesser Noble family that happened to be the closest branch family to house Weiss ve Justerium, one of the five White Greater Noble families. With such a legacy, Klive was granted a considerable amount of noble privileges, and he’s able to command some level of authority. Klive himself knew about this, and he’s someone who’s not afraid to exercise his privileges. In addition, his parents had granted him a considerable allowance every week to match his social stature, money that he spends frivolously on buying girls gifts and showing them favours. So to sum it up, he a rich and a frivolous teenager who’s very much likely to be a very notorious playboy. That largely explains the large group of fans that usually accompanies him around whenever he goes.

Now although she did not know him that well, Sing had already heard some stories about his dubious behaiour. The rumours were not specific, but there’s a hint that Klive had a bad character. Now Sing was not a person who take rumours much heed. However, what she had heard about Klive was more than enough for her to put on some sort of guard.

“Come on guys, Sirena here is still contemplating on who to join. If you all rush to her like this, can she make a sound judgment? Why not approach her at a later timing when she’s available? There’s Colour Class tomorrow, so you can ask her if she wants to join your group by then.”

From that smile on his face, it was obvious to Sing that he’s picturing himself as a knight in shining armour.

Oh dear… he really thinks he’s saving me, but he’s actually making things way more difficult for me in future… Sing thought.

Due to Klive’s interferences, the guys that sought her talents gave small grunts and left. The other more sincere ones gave smiles and waved a goodbye to her.

With a wave of his hand, Klive sent his group away. The girls within the group sent Sing some irritated gazes, but they complied to Klive’s intentions.

Now that it’s just her and Klive, Sing quickly made an attempt to excuse herself.

“Um… Lord ve Reigarus – ”

“Please my dear, just call me Klive.”

“My lord, forgive me but I must uphold basic etiquettes.”

“Nonsense! It’s not like you don’t know me. I’ll say this now, there’s no reason why a beautiful girl like you shouldn’t feel so formal around me.”

Oh dear…

His attempt to flirt with her was so obvious. If both Cadeus and Nadav were here, the two of them would not hesitate to send a punch to his face. But given her position, Sing had not choice but to swallow her discomfort and play along with the proper manners.

“Well… Klive, thanks for you help. Unfortunately, I’m afraid I have to excuse myself. I – ”

“Hold on, hold on. I rarely get to speak to you. Let’s have a moment of grace shall we?”

His presence was more than enough to make Sing slightly uncomfortable. Plus if he was here, Sing could already guess his true intentions.

“I’m really sorry, but I’m in a rush.”

“I see. Well that is unfortunate, but before you go…”

Oh boy, here it comes.

“Would you like to join my group for the tournament?”

There we go…

Sing spent a quick three seconds to come up with the right words.

“Thank you for the offer Klive. However, I already am part of a group.”

His eyebrow twitched slightly.

“Is that so? Which group may I ask?”

“Um… well…”

“Sigh… in the end, you are the same as the other boys Klive.”

When they both heard that, the two of them expressed surprise. While Sing was happy to this person’s intervention, Klive’s face expressed a hint of irritation.

Forcing her way into their conversation, this new interloper drew admiring gazes from the surrounding White students. After all, she’s a very popular girl.

Lisa Liliane ve Primas.

She’s one of the White Greater Nobles enrolled into Sing’s year. Despite her high social status, Lisa could be described as a contradicting representation of noble ettiquete. Instead of being the proper lady, Lisa had a reputation of being a tomboyish person who loves drama, acting and cosplaying. She dresses informally in clothes of various styles, and she’s not shy about presenting her rather wild character to the people around her. But despite her contradicting personality, Lisa was someone reliable.

“Klive, if you are just going to hog Sirena here all to yourself, aren’t you no worse that the guys who were swarming her earlier?”

“That was different. I’m just saving Sirena from a bind.”

Excuse me… saving me? How exactly is telling them to approach me later in class a way of saving me? Sing quietly thought.

Lisa shook her head.

“Sigh… I already predicted that something like this would happen. Sorry to break it up to you Klive, but unfortunately for you, Sirena won’t be partnering with you.”

“Oh? And why would that be?”

“That’s because, she already agreed to pair up with me.”

“You?”

Klive smirked at that declaration.

“I thought you are already amongst the top twenty? You do not have to participate in this Tournament if you choose to.”

“Ah but you see, I already chose to participate, and Sirena here has agreed to support me in a duet.”

“You’re joking.”

“No, I am not.”

Klive appeared to have trouble accepting this piece of information, He sent Sing a look of confirmation. Sing merely reassured the lie by nodding with a sympathetic smile.

With that, Klive had no choice but to leave. Giving Lisa a respectable nod, he just left without saying anything further to Sing. Saved, Sing turned her attention to her new benefactor.

“Thanks Lisa.”

“Don’t thank me. Thank Pyron.”

With a gesture of her head, Lisa directed Sing’s attention to a short boy next to her who looks too young to be a sixteen year old.

“Pyron told me what was happening while pointing you out at the same time. That’s how I know what was going on.”

Pyron Zenth was a student in Sing’s class. He had a competitive spirit, and he’s always trying his best to be at the top of the class. Now, the position of being at the top of the class currently fell to Sing, and her consistency at remaining at the top served as a consistent source of friction between him and her. However, despite these small moments of rivalry, Pyron never let his failures get to him and he always tried his best to get full marks in the next quiz tests. Sing failed to discern the reasons behind his strive to be the top, but she admired his dedication and seriousness to his studies. That was why, even though he frequently makes declarations that he’ll surpass her, she always end up treating him like a little brother and encouraged him in the process.

“Thank you Pyron.”

Pyron shook his head.

“I didn’t do it for you. I just hate that guy.”

Aw… how sweet.

Sing felt slightly touched that he would go out on his way to help someone he viewed as a rival. Moving forward, she patted him on the head as a gesture of thanks.

“Oi. Stop patting me.”

“I’m just saying thank you.”

“Don't need it, don’t want it!”

Feeling extremely uncomfortable, Pyron raised his smaller hands and pried Sing’s hand away from his head.

“I still have not forgotten the fact that you scored full marks again for the previous test quiz. But luckily this time, the Initiate Tournament does not count solely on brains. Plus, you haven’t seen the most of my ability. This time, I’ll beat you. So watch out.”

“I’ll be waiting then~!”

“Like I said, stop patting me on the head!”

Pissed, Pyron threw a short tantrum before leaving. He really could be adorable at times.

Whilst watching his retreating silhouette, Lisa gave Sing a smirk.

“I can’t wait to see the look on his face when he lose against you.”

“What makes you think that?”

“Isn’t it obvious that you will win? Miss Ace girl?”

“It’s uncertain. Then again, I might be eliminated by the other Nobles.”

“You? Get eliminated? I just can’t… oh right… I just remembered that the Greater Darks are participating as well…”

Wait… what?

“Lord Acriscius and Lady Claire are participating?”

“Not just them. Davian from the Student Council is participating as well.”

“Why? Don’t they already have student rankings of their own?”

“Um… no. Apparently not.”

Oh dear…

“… Technically, the Greater Darks can choose not to participate in this tournament if they choose to do so right?”

“Yeah, I guess they could. However, I overheard Davian uttering that they were forced by their parents into joining the tournament to display a show of force. It has been a long time since Greater Nobles enrolled into the Academy. Since Chloe and Royce have their own rankings, Whites have no issues. For the Greys, they already have Stronis, Viegra, and not to mention Cordelia… oh I forgot that there’s Magrette. With the four of them in the top ten, the Greys are pretty covered as well. It’s only the Greater Dark Nobles who have not secured a ranking yet. So I guess the Greater Darks have no choice but to participate.”

Cadeus would definitely be unhappy to hear of this.

“Although…”

Lisa tilted her head upwards in deep thought.

“I did hear of two Greater Dark Nobles who are currently in the top ten. But I don’t really know much about those two either. I only know that one of them is in his second year, so he won’t be participating in our Initiate Tournament. But as for the other one…”

Lisa showed a face full of reluctance.

“Now I don’t know the reason why, but Davian and Cordelia are highly reluctant to talk about this other person in the top ten. Maybe there’s a grudge or something… but this other Greater Dark sure sounds like someone who’s very dubious. Davian would often freak out when I made a mere mention of this person. He can get really touchy when it came to this particular subject. But as far as I know, this mysterious person is not going to be in the tournament as well.”

That was a huge relief. If Lisa wasn’t here, Sing would have breathed out a sigh of relief.

“Don’t get all comfy yet. While you may have to face Klive, don't forget that you still have to go through some of the Grey Nobles as well as the three Greater Darks.”

“Yeah… Does this mean that you are not participating?”

“Hm? Yeah. Pretty much.”

“…Won’t Klive find out about this?”

“Don’t worry, I reckon he’ll only find out about our small lie until the groupings got announced. Besides, I have not made it clear if I want to participate, so my participation will be left for speculation.”

“Wouldn’t you be troubled if people start popping requests for you to join them then?”

“Not really. When that happens I’ll just say that I’m teaming up just with you.”

“Does that mean that Royce and Cenyr won’t be participating?”

“Nah… the two of them are already in the top ten. They won’t participate since it’ll do little to improve anything. Besides, even if they have to participate, Cenyr would just quietly withdraw in-between and I’m absolutely sure Royce couldn’t even be bothered to lift his staff. The two of them just couldn’t be bothered with this event. So don’t worry about having to face him or anything.”

“I’m not that worry about facing them.”

“Of course you are not! Royce wouldn’t even hit a lady, and Cenyr is way too gentle when he fights. Besides…”

Lisa edged closer towards Sing for a whisper.

“This is a friendly advice. Don’t ever get close to Klive. He may appear to be nice and all, but he’s bad news.”

Sing could only nod.

“Thanks. I already heard of some suspiscious rumours.”

Lisa widened her eyes in surprise.

“Hold on… I thought you are the kind that don’t listen to rumours?”

“I usually don’t, but I could tell that Klive was someone I ought to keep my guard against. He does have quite the ego.”

Lisa sighed.

“If only the people around him are as smart as you.”

“Why would they choose to follow him anyway?”

“Klive can be a big friend with huge benefits… I’m guessing that made them blind, or they just went with it because they felt that the benefits they get are worth overlooking his character. Either way, Klive is bad, but sometimes the people around him can be worse, especially the girls.”
“Well… I’m not going to judge them that quickly since I don’t know any of them.”

“Of course you aren’t. Anyways, just keep away from Klive. Knowing him, he’s just probably after your talents to make a name for himself in the Initiate Tournament. I suspect he believes he could get the highest available ranking with you on his team.”

“That reasoning is sound.”

“No offense, but I doubt he’ll succeed even with you on his team. After all, the Greater Darks are participating, as well as two Greater Greys as well.”

“Don’t worry. I’m not aiming to be the top anyway.”

“You aren’t? Pyron is going to be pissed if he learns of this.”

“Isn’t it obvious? I don’t think my team has the ability to match with the nobles, and beating them would cause political issues that can bring us into needless trouble.”

“Ah… that’s true… Damn you are smart. Cenyr wasn’t kidding when he said you are bright.”

“Did he?”

“Yeah. Oh well… I got to go. See you around.”

“See you.”

TOA

When Nadav and Sing returned to Cadeus, they found him hugging Vel like a pillow cushion. The familiar had its singular eye closed. It appeared to be enjoying its current situation.

“…Is that thing soft?”

Sing tiled her head to that question.

“I don’t know… it could be.”

When he noticed their presence, Cadeus moved to greet them.

“You guys got what you need?”

“Yeah.” “Mm…”

Nadav’s eyes were set on Vel. He seems to find it very interesting to see Cadeus hugging a wraith that appeared to enjoy being held in such a position.

“What is it?” Cadeus asked.

“Is it soft?”

“…I’ll just leave it to your imagination.”

“Oh ho?”

Enthusiasm got the better of him. Nadav quickly moved closer with the intention to touch Vel.

When he got close enough, Vel opened it’s singular eye and looked at him. It became pretty apparent that the familiar disliked being touched by strangers. However, Nadav failed to noticed that and he stretch out with his hand.

But before he could do something that could be incredibly stupid, Sing quickly opened her mouth.

“Careful. Don’t forget that the familiar is a wraith. It may be all right to Cadeus to come into contact with it, but the paranormal affiliations the wraith share with Cadeus may not apply to you.”

When he heard that, Nadav quickly snatched his hand back.

“What… do you mean to say that I’ll get cursed?”

“It’s a possibility.”

Nadav immediately had a change of heart. He soon took a step back.

“Then nevermind…”

Oddly enough, Sing’s caution towards Vel actually saved Cadeus from a bind.

Sing turned to Cadeus.

“I heard from some Nobles that Lord Davian, Lord Acriscius and Lady Claire are participating.”

“Yes, apparently so. I just met Claire earlier. She wanted to recruit me to be her single partner in exchange for striking off some favours.”

“Ouch… I’m assuming you rejected her.” Nadav added.

“Of course? Do you need to even ask that?”

With nothing else to do, Sing brought up the topic of what to do next.

“So… shall we go and find out what sort of Artifact we may need for the tournament?”

Cadeus shook his head.

“Not yet. I need to do something first.”

“Does it have to do with Vel?”

“No. Apparently Master Morgan wants to see me.”

Nadav sighed a sigh full of pity.

“What did you do this time?”

“Why is it that you are always quick to assume I did something wrong?”

Before Nadav could make things worst, Sing opened her mouth.

“Does this have something to do with the catacombs?”

“Probably.”

“Well, then I guess we’ll have to wait for you. Come and find us at the Academy Entrance when you are done. The two of us should start heading over in half an hour’s time.”

TOA

Returning to Tenebris Vacuum, Cadeus went straight for Master Morgan’s office. Entering the Academia Building, he headed straight for the highest level in the Academia Building.

This was the fourth time he had visited Master Morgan’s office. The previous three times he was summoned was to account for his involvement with the dubious Board Quest he unfortunately got involved with, i.e. Gordon’s Mirror, Veydra’s Concuction, and the Mystical Box.

As the Master in charge of safety and conduct for all Dark Mage students, it fell under Master Morgan’s jurisdiction to check on students who got run-ins with the Enforcers. Just from these experiences alone, Cadeus assumed he was being called to provide an account for what had happened in the latest Procona issue. If this was going to be a repeat of the last meeting, there’s a high chance that she’s going to reprimanded him again for his reckless behaviour.

In the past, Cadeus’s reputation as an imposed ‘imposter’ had long reached her ears. She had always been aware of his situation ever since Acriscius made his huge scene at the start of the Academy term. But despite the startling beginning, she did not step in to resolve or settle the issue.

Cadeus was unsure if she was not available, or if she simply chose to ignore what was happening to him. Cadeus suspected the latter, but he had no concrete proof of her approach to his situation. Either case, Master Morgan was still someone he did not want to piss off.

When he came to her office, her door was open. As he stood at the entrance, Cadeus could see Master Morgan going through some documents with her left hand

Keeping his manners, Cadeus knocked twice before announcing his arrival.

“Master Morgan?”

Master Morgan looked up. Without smiling, she motioned him forward to the seat before her desk and returned her attention to the documents in her hand.

Cadeus moved in and sat as instructed.

Once Master Morgan put her work aside, she straightened her back, placed her elbows on the table, fingers crossed, and looked at him.

The first thing she did, was not to open her mouth, but to look at the air next to him.

“You can tell your wraith to stop hiding.”

“…”

Master Morgan frowned slightly.

“Do you honestly think that a new born wraith could possibly hide its presence from me?”

Cadeus opened his mouth to reply, but he immediately closed it.

“Vel.”

Vel manifested at his side. It looked at Cadeus as if expecting instructions.

Master Morgan took a moment to study Vel.

She said nothing.

Once she had seen all she needs to see, Master Morgan returned her attention to Cadeus.
“This is already the fourth time.”

“Yes…”

“The fourth time you chose to dive into a case that you know is beyond your capability.”

“…”

Instead of a lecture, Master Morgan sighed. It appears that she did not want to waste any effort.

“Why is it that you always drag yourself into such troublesome cases?”

“I can only say that the Board Quest I end up taking are more than what they seem.”

Master Morgan said nothing. There’s a slight hint of sympathy when she shook her head at his answer.

Master Morgan reached for the drawer at the side of her desk and took out a folder.

“This is the report the Enforcers gave me.”

She passed the folder to him.

“Read it.”

Cadeus took the folder and opened it.

Everything was as he had expected.

Glancing down the documents, the report the Enforcers was mostly about the case and how he himself got involved with them. They wrote about Fremin’s Mansion, all the happenings in the catacombs, and finally about the ridiculous wraith.

At the last portion, it was written that there were two attempts to seal the wraith. Just like what Mr. Morrison told him in the follow-up appointments, the Enforcers had written that it was Acriscius’s blood that was used twice, instead of using his own blood in the second attempt.

Mr. Morrison had already warned him of the possible political complications that could transpire should the truth be brought out in the open. As such, Cadeus chose to remain silent on the matter. Even if he were to raise this abnormally, Cadeus felt that he might bring himself more trouble than what might be worth revisiting.

Closing the folder cover back, Cadeus passed the folder back to Master Morgan.

“The report is accurate. I have nothing to say.”

Master Morgan stared at him silently as if studying his facial expression. She soon took the folder back and kept it under her drawer.

“Acriscius said something remarkable regarding the last part.”

Cadeus had a bad premonition, but he managed to keep his poker face.

“Did he?”

“Indeed.”

Why would he? Cadeus thought.

“Did he specify what went wrong?”

“He did.”

That’s it, she knows about the fact that his blood was used in the second attempt.

“…Any advice for me?”

“Stay silent, as you have just done.”

“…Thank you.”

It was either the Enforcers told her the truth of what happened, or she managed to deduced that on her own.

“Putting this matter aside…”

Master Morgan redirected her attention to Vel. Sensing her intrigue, Vel turned it’s attention to Master Morgan.

“When did you create it?”

“Yesterday evening.”

“Be more specific.”

“… I think at around seven after dinner?”

“Meaning you did it within the male dormitory?”

“No, Master Morgan. I went back to Tenebris Vacuum.”

“Smart.”

Master Morgan raised her crossed fingers up to her chin.

“At least you have the sense not to put the lives of the students within the dormitory building at risk. But of all familiars to pick, why did you choose to create a wraith?”

“I hate pets.”

“You could have gotten a golem construct.”

“Golem programming could be rewritten or influenced. Wraiths on the other hand, are more immune to external influences”

“Hm…”

Her nod suggests that she’s satisfied with his reason.

“How did you get the ritual procedure?”

Time to tell a half-truth.

“I got it off a decoded page in the D-reference section. The page came from the Black Book of Spirits by Zelnarius Pride ve Lu.”

“Ah… I know that work. I see…”

“Master Morgan, am I going to be punished?”

“For what? Creating your wraith?”

“Yes.”

Master Morgan shook her head.

“The Archmage had already informed me that you would be getting a familiar, and part of the fault lies in the fact that the Archmage failed to specify what kind of familiar you could get. More importantly, if you have created this wraith out of malice in an attempt to get back at some noble, I would immediately condemn your actions and deliver the proper disciplinary action. However, I sense no such hateful purpose coming from your wraith. Instead, its presence simply reflects the role you confined it to be. Is it an utility wraith?”

“Yes, Master Morgan.”

She easily figured out Vel’s purpose and role just simply by observing it?

Scary…

“I see. Then, as a fellow Dark Mage, I must commend you for this achievement. Very few students have delivered a potential of your caliber. I must say that I expect to see good things from you, especially during the upcoming tournament.”

“Thank you…”

So she’s not punishing him at all.

That’s good.

“However, that does not mean that I will simply forget that you just undertook an extremely dangerous ritual without professional guidance.”

Aw… shit.

“So… what’s going to happen to me?”

“You are going to have private lessons under me to learn how to control your wraith.”

Cadeus sensed the ‘in other words, you are not going to be out of my sight until you learn to properly sort out this mess’ implication within her voice.

With a wave of her hand, the wraith that approached Cadeus at the Arena stadium showed itself again.

“Ah!” Cadeus could not help but be in alarmed.

This triggered an interesting scene.

Vel quickly reacted to the wraith’s presence and quickly prepared a spell. All sense of its hostility was directed at the other wraith. Perhaps that previous encounter left a salty memory, but regardless of its intentions, Cadeus dread to think what Master Morgan would do to him if he allowed Vel to go beserk in her office.

“Vel! Stop.”

Cadeus quickly grabbed Vel by it’s head and nested it into his arms before it could do anything funny. Much to Cadeus’s surprise, Vel had a first episode of defiance and it immediately warpped out of his grip. It was about to cast an unknown spell when the other wraith shot out a hand and isolated Vel in a translucent barrier.

At the very instance, Vel registered the consequences of casting it’s spell within an isolated barrier and immediately put the spell on hold. With that hostile gaze towards its peer, Vel looks like it won’t be forgoing that spell for a time.

“My, you have quite an energetic one there.”

“S-Sorry…”

“You are not entirely at fault. It acted against your wishes.”

Cadeus could not help but stand at full alert towards that other wraith. What was it doing here? If Master Morgan could sit comfortably like that with minimum reaction to the wraith’s presence, did it mean that the wraith answers to her?

Vel still looked like it still wanted to draw some phantom blood. It really must have felt offended against that wraith. But it was not Like Cadeus could not understand. He too had a particular beef against that wraith. What the heck was that previously? Immobilizing him like that out of nowhere?

“You find his presence discomforting?”

“My first experience with him is not that pleasant.”

“Is it?”

Master Morgan straightened her back slightly.

“Ah… I see you experienced his [Binding Barrier]. I agree that it is not a particularly pleasant experience, but it is efficient in keeping onlookers and eavesdroppers out.”

“Is that the only reason you use him to contact me in that manner?”

Master Morgan chose not to answer him.

With her left knuckles still supporting her chin, Master Morgan extended her right hand towards the other wraith.

“This is Zedeweiss, my wraith familiar. As you can see, it’s almost similar to your own.”

Cadeus gave Zedeweiss another analytic good.

“How is that similar? They are completely different in appearance and magical capacity.”

“Well… I agree they are different physically. But fundamentally they are of the same kind.”

“…”

“You can relax. Zedeweiss won’t do anything without my approval, unlike yours just a second ago.”

At that remark, Cadeus could not help but turn his head to Vel with a look of doubt.

“It always obeyed me before. Why did it defy me this time?”

“This just shows that the bond between you two is not thoroughly matured.”

“What?”

Cadeus was surprised to hear that.

“It is true that artificial wraiths have a natural strong bond to their creators. While it guarantees a high compatibility between Master and Familiar, it still does not mean that they’ll obey every order or instructions. The bond between master and familiar need a touch of seasoning in order for the relationship to be perfectly ideal.” Master Morgan explained.

“Is that so…”

Cadeus did not read that in the Book of Spirits. Perhaps Zelnarius did write this down, and Cadeus just seemingly failed to notice it.

Master Mogan looked at Vel with deep consideration in her eyes.

“This is what I am concerned about. The fact that your familiar would go all out against your wishes, it just shows that it is still a potential hazard.”

“Well… it’s not like Vel is entirely to blame.”

“What?”

“Nothing…”

With nothing else to say, Master Morgan returned to what she wanted to say.

“I created Zedeweiss some twenty years ago.”

Wait… twenty years ago? But won’t that make Master Morgan’s age around – oh nevermind. Cadeus did not want to trigger a hidden landmine.

Master Morgan continued.

“I had my fair share of difficulties working with him. Like all relationship between Master and Familiar, there are moments where Zedeweiss won’t listen to my commands. Working out the relationship is where the challenge can come in, especially when the partner is a wraith.”

“I’m assuming that this is a lesson.”

“A lesson and a warning, which is why I am going to take it upon myself to ensure that you know how to keep your wraith in proper reins.”

“…”

“Your silence expresses your discomfort. Do you dislike the idea of treating your wraith like an animal?”

“Well to be fair it’s my creation. I do have some form of attachment to it.”

“A sentiment that’s justified, but not practical at the moment. If you cannot control your wraith properly, you won’t be able to keep it in line. When that happens, your wraith will not respect your wishes thoroughly and it’ll cause more problems than what you can handle.”

“…Understood.”

Master Morgan returned her attention to Vel.

“Are you aware of what your wraith can do?”

“Well… it’s basically an inventory bag.”

“Yes I can see that. Dimensional Magic. Now that is something. What did you use to accomplish this?”

“Well, you see…”

Cadeus was about to tell Morgan of the procedure when he stopped himself.

How was he going to explain this to her?

While the mirror fragments are just fragments with little to no level of danger, they still held the same crazy magical properties the original mirror had. Cadeus did not know if they could still count as hazardous, but if he told her he had used one of the mirror fragments, would she give him a lecture about holding hazardous magical items?

Master Morgan pressed him on.

“Well? Out with it.”

She seems really interested in Vel. Maybe she’ll let him off the hook. Would she? Maybe not…

Ah well… Cadeus felt that hiding information from her would prove to be more troublesome in the long run. He might as well say it now and face the music should it come.

“Do you remember the Gordon’s Mirror incident?”

“You were in the thick of it, yes I remember.”

“Well, as you know the mirror had a huge capacity for dimensional magic, but it had an extremely unstable activation processor. That’s the primary reason why it got destroyed in the end.”

Now here comes the hard part.

“I have some of the mirror fragments. They retained some of the original mirror’s magic, but they do not have the necessary means to trigger a potent paranormal incident. But since they have the same dimensional magic within them, I ended up using one large fragment as a ritual ingredient.”

Master Morgan raised an eyebrow to that.

Normally Cadeus would sense trouble and anticipate the lecture. However, he soon sensed neither anger nor annoyance. Instead, what he felt was surprise, and a slight hint of admiration.

“Interesting… not a bad choice. Does this mean that you kept some of the mirror fragments from the case?”

“Yes…”

“I see. Well, as long as they are not used for dubious means, I suppose you could keep them.”

Eh?

“…You are not mad at me for using a fragment of Gordon’s Mirror? Even though the fragments themselves can be a potential magical hazard?”

“No.”

Master Morgan shook her head. She easily understood why Cadeus suddenly became so cautious.

“Don’t worry. Fragments are fragments. They may not be as potent or as dangerous as the fully functioning original, but you are right in assuming that they are hazardous if used in certain ways. Again, it all depends on what you use them for. If you made an attempt to reforge the original mirror for the wrong intentions, then obviously your actions will not be tolerated. But since you used one of the fragments for something as simple as creating an utility familiar, then it is fine. Besides, even if you managed to reforge the mirror, I doubt it’ll be as dangerous as the original. Shattered magical items do not work the same when reforged. It has something to so with the natural magical law of separation and reconnection, but that will be something you’ll learn once you start your tertiary curriculum.”

Cadeus breathed a sigh of relief.

“You seem quite distressed over some magical items.”

“Well I just found out you are not overly strict with them.”

“Young man, if it were part of my job description to be pesky about every single magical item each student possess, I would have resigned my position long ago.”

Straightening her back, Master Morgan turned to look at a nearby calendar.

“I assume you are going to the city to scout your Arcane Artifact after this.”

“Yes Master Morgan.”

“I see… but the sooner we can start with your wraith lessons the better. Are you free two days from now?”

“I… should have Colours, History and – ”

“You will be free at 4 pm. I’ll see you here then.”

“Ah… of course.”

As expected of the Master of Tenebris Vacuum, she already knew his schedule. All it took for her was just a simple need of memory digging.

However, there’s something else. Master Morgan appeared to be looking forward to the session tomorrow.

“You seem to be enjoying yourself Master Morgan.”

“I think I am. I don't often come across a Mage who successfully created a functional wraith to be his or her familiar.”

She soon put on a serious face.

“All the more reason why you have to attend these special classes. You need to learn how to be responsible for your wraith.”

“Yes Master Morgan.”

Deep down, Cadeus felt relieved. Nothing bad was going to happen to him.

“Master Morgan, may I ask one question?”

“Sure.”

“Am I allowed to use Vel for the Initiate Tournament?”

Master Morgan massaged her chin.

“There’s no rule stating against using familiars in the Tournaments. You may use Vel as you wish.”

That’s good news.

“May I ask one more question?”

“As long as it is not about details regarding the Initiate Tournament.”

Although that was not what Cadeus had in mind, it was still quite a shame he couldn't ask about the Initiate Tournament.

“Are there any places you can recommend for me to get an Arcane Artifact?”

“It depends on what kind of Artifact you are looking for.”

“Close combat Artifacts.”

“Hm…”

Master Morgan spent some time in deep thought.

“I’ll recommend three places. The first would be ‘The Pyrols’ at Demerith’s Street. The shop owner is reliable, and his wares are of decent quality. The only down side is that he does not have a lot of variety, and he might charge you expensively regardless of your student status. I think the price range goes between 200 – 400 Duches per Artifact.”

Cadeus got a feeling that he might know this shop. If he remembered correctly, that was the same shop that sold him the not-quite-curbed Black Book of Spirits.

“The second is ‘Black Deals’ located on the basement floor of the Central Plaza in Carmith’s Street. There is a lot of stock Artifacts, which leaves plenty of room to choose. However, be careful of the shopkeeper. He can be rather dubious since he cares more about money than his merchandise. His price range for most Artifacts can be around 100 to 200 Duches. It’s generally cheaper than Pyrols, but a number of his stock Artifacts tend to be fakes and fail in performances. If you want to save some time just tell him I sent you. But in the end just make sure that your desired Artifact does perform just as the item description states.”

Ouch… just how did this guy avoid the authorities?

Should Cadeus report him to Miss Allis?

“If you want something that’ll really suit you, I would strongly recommend the third. However…”

“Hm?”

“The third shop will require a recommendation letter. Normally I wouldn’t suggest it to normal students, but since you are a Pure Blood, he should be interested in seeing you…”

Cadeus tilted his head slightly to that. What exactly could this be?

“The shop owner is a Dark Pure Blood. His name is Frederick ve Kuvarshi. Remember that name. He’s a very reknown Arcane Artifact Crafter even amongst the Greys and Whites. He makes a special brand of Arcane Artifacts that are always custom built to suit its owner. The Artifacts he makes are all able to perform at exceedingly well in many situations, but with such a tendency to create exclusive merchandise, he will only work for a small selective group of individuals. It’s not easy to approach him for he will only accept commissions from patrons who managed to get his shop’s exclusive membership.”

“So how do I get this exclusive membership?”

“You don’t. You’ll only get it if he allows you to. Perhaps he might one day grant you the membership once you have established yourself as a capable Mage, but as for now, you’ll have to settle with a recommendation letter from me.”

“…Would he still refuse me even though I have a letter?”

“No. He knows me so you’ll be fine. Just watch your mouth and keep your hands in your pockets when you see him.”

Master Morgan paused again, as if trying to remember something.

“Ah… that’s right. He has a base commission price for artifacts, but it will be very costly. It’s usually 9500 Duches.”

“Wha…”

Master Morgan raised an eyebrow to that reaction.

“What’s with that look? You should be able to afford that sum right? If I remember correctly, the Enforcers gave you quite the compensation for your involvement in the Catacombs.”

“…You knew about that?”

“Well, let’s just say that I managed to pry every single detail from the Enforcers in return for stepping into my domain in my absence.”

That figures…

Master Morgan reached down for a drawer to take out an empty page and a letter envelope. Once she’s done with the recommendation letter, she folded it into the envelope and sealed it with a wax stamp of her current office.

“Here you go.”

“Thank you.”

“One last thing. Master Frederick’s shop cannot be accessed through normal means. Head to the tavern in Demerith’s street, the tavern owner is a Mixed Blooded relative and has an access point. Show him my recommendation letter and he’ll provide the rest of the instructions.”

Cadeus nodded. He made sure to keep her words in mind.

“Do you have any other questions?”

“No.”

“You may go. See yourself out.”

With nothing else to say, Master Morgan returned her attention to the pile of documents she was sorting out earlier. That served as the cue for Zedeweiss to disappear from physical view. When it freed Vel from the translucent barrier, Vel did not cast its spell. Rather, it just stood on vigilant watch against Zedeweiss.

Before it could cause another scene, Cadeus quickly grabbed it by the head and moved out of the room.

With Master Morgan’s office behind him, Vel canceled whatever spell it was initially preparing in its head, and stood at attention.

Oh well, at least its now properly obeying orders.

Sighing, Cadeus ordered Vel to dissapear from sight and started heading out of the Academia Building.