Two days later, it was time for the nexus trials. In the past, he did nothing but practice his abilities, trying to become more proficient. During this time, he also met Naida, who complimented him on already reaching nexus adept status in just three months. People considered him a genius for achieving this feat, but he didn't feel that way. He believed there were other geniuses around and that he just ended up lucky by having the chance to have a mentor and engage in more meaningful experiences to gain strength.
With Naida as his mentor, his progress significantly sped up. He knew that if he were on his own, he would be stuck for a while, especially with his curse, making it challenging for anyone to teach him anything. This situation made him fortunate compared to others, and he felt grateful to her, Lennox's accelerated progress, from Nadia led to stereotypes about the influence mentors could have on a Nexarc's success. Some students believed that those with renowned or experienced mentors had an unfair advantage. The assumption that mentorship was a prerequisite for success created an environment where the impact of his personal effort was overshadowed.
Today, Lennox was slowly walking toward the back of the academy where the nexus trial would be happening. Other nexarc students around him sprinted with excitement and some with fear towards the back of the academy. It was understandable on both sides – passing the trial meant moving up, gaining more experience and materials to get stronger, while failing meant going down a grade and having to wait for another opportunity for the trial to happen again.
Naida, approached him with a reassuring smile. "You've come a long way, Lennox. Trust in your abilities, and remember the strength you've gained."
Lennox nodded, appreciating the encouragement. "Thanks, Mentor Naida. I'll give it my all."
...
Today, Lennox felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as he slowly walked towards the back of the academy where the nexus trial would be happening, arriving at the back of the academy, there were four large flat, smooth black stones. In front of them stood Nexarch Valarian and other mentors, engaged in conversation and preparing for the upcoming trials, At the forefront, Nexarch Valarian oversees the academic and training programs tailored for Nexarcs. As the head of the academy, he ensures a seamless curriculum that encapsulates a myriad of subjects, from elemental manipulation to tactical combat strategies. Valarian also plays a crucial role in assigning mentors to new initiates, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support within the Nexarc community.
Nexarch Valarian welcomed everyone, announcing that it was time to begin the Nexus Initiation Trials. His voice resonated, capturing everyone's attention. Nexarch Valarian then surveyed the crowd, his eyes seeming to penetrate through each individual.
"The Nexus Initiation Trials mark the transition from Newcomer Grade to Advanced Grade. Students must showcase their understanding of Nexus Energy, magical prowess, and combat skills in a series of challenges," he explained with authority.
Nexarch Valarian nodded, acknowledging the progress some had made while encouraging others not to be discouraged, emphasizing the importance of a gradual journey to strength.
"If you manage to pass the trials, entering will open possibilities for more in-depth study of advanced magic theory, combat techniques, and exploration of individual affinities with Nexus Energy and more," he added.
The students expressed their excitement, eager for the chance to engage in actual combat and move beyond theoretical learning.
Nexarch Valarian walked towards the first black stone on the right and announced the first trial of the day, the Nexus Awareness Test. In this trial, students had to navigate through a magical maze, using their ability to sense and manipulate Nexus Energy to reveal hidden pathways and avoid traps, Valarian's legacy is woven with notable achievements, one of the most revered being the unearthing of an ancient Nexus artifact that played a pivotal role in averting a crisis. His strategic acumen and mastery of Nexus abilities were instrumental in quelling a potent threat that had the potential to unravel the delicate balance between Nexus realms.
Lennox recalled seeing Valarian for the first time upon joining the academy but hadn't seen much of him since. Naida had mentioned that Valarian often gave her missions related to the academy's division. Despite this, Lennox hadn't experienced any negative encounters after joining the academy.
Though the students hadn't had many opportunities to use their Nexus Energy, they could assess each other's ranks through a skill called reception. This skill allowed them to gauge the strength and rank of other nexarcs by observing the energy around them. Some nexarcs concealed their strength, making perception a valuable tool to understand one's opponents.
"With all that said, let's start the Nexus trial. I'm sure you're all excited and anxious to begin," Val announced, setting the stage for the trials to unfold.
Nexarch Valarian held a jade tablet in his hand, raising two fingers together. Gold Nexus energy appeared on his fingers, emitting a strong yet controlled energy that everyone could sense. He directed the energy into the jade tablet, causing it to glow gold. Then, he transferred it into the stone, creating a swirling portal in the air.
"Now, one by one, you can enter the portal," Nexarch Valarian announced. "I wish you all good luck, and may you come out changed."
Lennox entered the portal and found himself in another space. The Nexus Maze presented a captivating fusion of ancient mystique and advanced technology, with towering crystalline hedges emitting a soft, pulsating glow. These hedges responded to the presence of those navigating the maze, shifting and parting to create pathways deeper into the maze.
"Tech in the maze... wasn't expecting that," Lennox exclaimed in surprise.
As he walked through the entrance, Lennox marveled at the radiant glow of the crystalline hedges. He sensed the familiar hum of Nexus Energy in the air, recognizing that the Nexus Maze was rumored to be a creation of ancient Nexarcs, designed to test aspiring students.
Lennox knew that some old Nexarcs had passed through the maze with record times, and beating those records was considered a sign of potential future Nexarchs.
Those who successfully navigated the Nexus Maze became the stuff of legends. Each had a unique story,
The Whispering Shadow: A mysterious figure who moved through the maze with the grace of a ghost, relying on stealth and cunning to avoid traps.
The Aquatic Sage: A Nexarc who understood the ebb and flow of Aquaemis's water manipulations, moving through illusions with a fluidity that seemed to defy the laws of physics.
The Ending Conqueror: A Nexarc who embraced the flames of Pyrastra's challenges, wielding fire with finesse and overcoming obstacles with unyielding determination.
However, Lennox didn't aspire to become a Nexarch, as it would mean being stuck in one place – something he didn't like due to his family's constant relocations. Nevertheless, he was determined to beat the record time to achieve his own goals, especially in finding his sister.
Strolling along the twisting pathways, Lennox encountered holographic projections depicting mythical landscapes and fantastical creatures. His mind remained sharp, and his strategic instincts kicked in as he analyzed each illusion. "Impressive," he muttered to himself, fully engaged in the challenges of the Nexus Maze.
At the heart of the Nexus Maze lies the Nexus Core, an ancient artifact infused with the raw energy of Fire, Air, Water, Earth, and Light nexuses. The Core is a crystalline structure pulsating with iridescent hues, and its power source is sustained by a delicate balance between the elemental forces it channels.
Lennox pondered on how to navigate the maze safely, observing the Nexus energy patterns. He noticed variations in energy levels, realizing that areas with more energy likely contained traps or creatures. Determined, he decided to use his perception to scan for potential threats and choose paths with fewer creatures.
Lennox's footsteps echoed through the Nexus Maze, accompanied by a soft "whirr" as the crystalline hedges responded to his presence. Occasionally, the maze emitted a faint "hum" as Nexus Energy surged through its intricate pathways. Lennox's sharp perception allowed him to hear subtle "crackles" and "pops" as the holographic projections depicting mythical landscapes and creatures came to life.
"Even if I run into traps or creatures, I'll defeat them. Failure is not an option; they'll be my stepping stones," Lennox declared with determination, gritting his teeth.
A pulsating wave of grey energy surged from his Nexus core, revealing hidden creatures and traps as it traversed the maze. The energy had the ability to discern the presence of both creatures and Nexarcs. The ground beneath him rippled and shifted in response to the Nexus Energy's resonance, creating a symbiotic connection with the maze. Lennox, with keen awareness, could discern the presence and ranks of Nexarcs around him.
"There's more to this maze than meets the eye. It's like a living puzzle," Lennox mused, noticing the walls shifting and rearranging themselves as he progressed.
As he reached the center of the maze, Lennox encountered floating energy resembling past Nexus who had failed their trials, because: The maze is equipped with echo tracers that capture residual Nexus energy signatures left by Nexarcs as they navigate. This technology allows the Architects to study the paths chosen by Nexarcs, enhancing the maze's ability to create tailored challenges for future aspirants.
Along with traps and creatures silently waiting for him. Thanks to his Nexus perception, he skillfully evaded them, but he also he couldn't help but wonder about the historical significance of this enigmatic labyrinth.
Long ago, during the era of the ancient Nexarcs, a council of the most powerful and wise Nexus users sought to create a crucible of challenges that would test the limits of aspiring Nexarcs. This council, known as the Architects of the Nexus, believed that only those who could navigate the complexities of the Nexus Maze would be deemed worthy of wielding the true power of Nexus energy.
The Architects were legendary figures, each a master of a specific aspect of Nexus manipulation.
Luminara the Illuminated: Master of Light Nexus Energy, Luminara possessed the ability to shape illusions and reveal hidden truths.
Vortrex the Vortex Weaver: A maestro of the Air Nexus, Vortrex could manipulate the very fabric of wind and create vortexes that tested the navigational skills of any who dared enter.
Pyrastra the Ember Enchantress: A wielder of Fire Nexus Energy, Pyrastra's domain was the manipulation of flames. Her trials were a test of both physical and mental resilience.
Aquaemis the Tidal Tempest: Guardian of the Water Nexus, Aquaemis controlled the ebb and flow of water. His maze challenged students with illusions that blurred the lines between reality and reflection.
Terrafist the EarthShaker: Master of Earth Nexus Energy, Terrafist crafted mazes that twisted and turned through caverns and cliffs, demanding a mastery of both physical and metaphysical strength.
Reaching the end of the maze, Lennox's steps slowed, and a triumphant "exhale" escaped his lips as he spotted a portal and decided to walk through it, anticipating the next stage of the trial.
"This maze seemed relatively easy, with few challenges. Perhaps the trials get harder as we progress," Lennox contemplated as he moved forward.