The doors of the majestic temple atop the mountaintop opened as the Apostle of Lightning gestured towards it. As the twelve apostles entered the temple, I followed behind silently. Only a massive hall and a beautiful door with mesmerizing engravings at the back end of the temple were present.
The atmosphere hummed with anticipation. Alex stood at the centre, surrounded by the guardians of the elements. The twelve apostles stepped forward with the apostle of lightning taking the lead, each bearing the essence and appearance that matched their respective elements.
The Apostle of Lightning, with energy coursing through his being, took the lead. His voice boomed with electrifying power as he addressed Alex. "Lightning, young one, is the embodiment of raw energy, speed, and transformation," they declared, His words resonating with electrifying intensity. "Through the power of Lightning magic, mages can harness the lightning's might, summon thunderstorms, and allow for their bodies to embody the speed of lightning."
Alex's eyes glowed at the prospect of wielding such power, he imagined the exhilarating power of lightning, crackling and surging through the air, illuminating the darkest of nights. The thought of harnessing such a force filled him with both excitement and a tingling sense of trepidation.
The Apostle of Earth, radiating a grounded and authoritative aura, spoke with a deep and resonant voice. "Earth, young one, is the embodiment of strength, stability, and the interconnectedness of all living things," he declared. His words flowed deliberately, like the steady pulse of the earth itself. "Through Earth magic, mages can shape the very fabric of the land, summoning towering mountains, and weaving intricate structures from the very soil beneath our feet."
Alex felt a sense of grounding wash over him as he envisioned the immense power of earth, solid and unyielding. He pictured himself sculpting mountains with a mere thought, shaping the very landscape to his will.
Next, the Apostle of Nature followed, exuding a nurturing and vibrant energy in his every word. His voice resonated with the harmony of nature, carrying the sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds. "Young seeker, Nature encompasses the rich tapestry of life in all its splendor," he proclaimed with a nurturing tone. "Nature mages possess the ability to communicate with animals, accelerate the growth of flora and manipulate it, and channel the raw power of the natural world, fostering balance and sustainable coexistence."
Alex's heart swelled with a deep appreciation for the beauty and interconnectedness of all living things. He imagined himself surrounded by a lush forest, where every plant and creature resonated with his being. The thought of communing with nature and harnessing its immense power filled him with a profound sense of responsibility.
Then came the turn of the Apostle of Healing, emanating a compassionate and soothing presence. Her voice carried a warmth that wrapped around Alex like a comforting embrace. "Dear chosen one, healing is the sacred art of restoration and well-being," she spoke with empathy and understanding. Her words seemed to caress the air with gentleness. "Mages who possess the gift of healing can mend physical wounds, alleviate pain, and restore balance to body and soul. They embody the essence of compassion and the profound interconnectedness of all living beings."
Alex felt a sense of serenity wash over him as he imagined the gentle touch of healing magic. The thought of bringing relief and restoration to those in pain, of mending broken bodies and soothing weary souls, filled him with a deep sense of purpose. The Apostle's words resonated with something within him.
The Apostle of Water approached, her words flowing like a serene river, calming and soothing. Her voice held a fluidity that mirrored the element she represented. "Water, youngling, holds the power of adaptability, rejuvenation, and harmony," she murmured. Her words danced like gentle ripples upon a tranquil lake. "Water mages control rivers, bring life-giving rain, and restore balance through the harmonizing properties of water. With their understanding of water's essence, they mend physical wounds, alleviate pain, and promote well-being. Water, when wielded with intent, becomes a formidable and precise weapon."
Alex couldn't help but be captivated by the serene and adaptable nature of water. He envisioned the ebb and flow of rivers, the gentle touch of raindrops, and the calming embrace of a peaceful lake. The thought of harnessing water's power to heal and restore balance captivated him. However, he also understood the potential for water to become a deadly force, capable of overwhelming strength and precise control.
As the procession continued, each apostle stepped forward in turn, addressing Alex with their unique elemental power and personality. The Apostle of Curse had his voice shrouded in mystery and intrigue, unfolding the intricate nature of curses. The Apostle of Fire blazed with passion and intensity, his voice crackling with the fervour of flames. The Apostle of Summoning commanded attention, his words carrying an air of authority and command over otherworldly entities. The Apostle of Shadow whispered with enigmatic secrecy, revealing the depths of darkness and the secrets that lie within it.
The Apostle of Air spoke with lightness and swiftness, his words fluttering like a gentle breeze. The Apostle of Space emanated an expansive and visionary aura, inspiring wonder and curiosity about the vast mysteries of the universe. Finally, the Apostle of Light radiated a radiant and uplifting presence, his voice resonating with justice and hope.
Alex marvelled at the diverse personalities and powers of each apostle, the words painting vivid images in his mind. He couldn't help but be captivated by the essence of each element and the profound ways in which they shaped the world.
Even though Alex knew that his thoughts on the elements were somewhat clearer than before, he didn't think there was much to cause a fuss about. From what he felt at the time, he can deduce that his thoughts were most likely connected with the elements for a moment.
After basic introduction of the elements, the apostles each spent a few days teaching me about the basic essence of each element. There were some elements which were clearly harder to understand like the curse and healing element, but with the teachings of the apostles Alex was able to comprehend the way the elements operated.
After the apostles had taught Alex the basic working of the elements. Alex and all the apostles were again gathered in the Main temple in the center. Alex addressed the assembly of apostles, his voice steady and filled with curiosity. "Esteemed Apostles, as I stand here, captivated by the essence of each element, I cannot help but wonder if my thoughts and feelings are somehow connected to the elements themselves. Is it possible that I have a deeper connection with these elemental forces, because I feel more closer to the elements than before?"
The apostles exchanged glances, their eyes reflecting a mix of wisdom and recognition. The Apostle of Lightning stepped forward, his gaze fixed upon Alex. "Young seeker, your intuition serves you well. It is not uncommon for those destined to wield the elements to have a natural resonance and connection with them. Your thoughts and feelings, intertwined with the elements, may indeed be an indication of your inherent affinity and potential."
The Apostle of Earth nodded in agreement, his voice resonating with certainty. "Indeed, young one, the elements have a way of speaking to those who possess a special connection. Your deep appreciation for the power of each element you feel is a testament to your affinity. It is a calling that beckons you to explore and embrace your unique bond with the elemental forces."
Alex listened attentively, his heart quickening with a mix of excitement and anticipation. This explanation did not make him feel scared. Instead, it allowed him to feel more at ease.
The Apostle of Lightning, seeing Alex silent, said "The elements are only intertwined with your thoughts when you are involved with activities relating to the elements."
The Apostle of Nature, radiating a nurturing energy, stepped forward to offer her guidance. "Young seeker, the elements are not simply tools to be harnessed but forces that seek harmony and balance within those who wield them. As you embark on your journey, it will be essential to nurture your connection, deepen your understanding, and align your intentions with the intrinsic nature of each element."
The Apostle of Healing, his presence soothing and compassionate, added, "Indeed, young one, embracing your connection with the elements requires self-reflection, discipline, and respect for the natural order. It is through this inner harmony that your affinity will grow, and your ability to channel the elemental powers will strengthen."
After digesting the information that the elements were not merely used for casting spells but also held deeper meaning in the world, Alex's questions resumed.
"How does magic work? What is its true nature?"
The Apostle of Nature smiled warmly, His eyes reflecting the wisdom of ages. "Magic, young seeker, is the manifestation of elemental forces harnessed by those gifted with the ability to manipulate them," he explained. "It is the art of channeling and shaping the very essence of the elements to bring about desired results. It requires the use of mana, the energy produced by our planet and woven into the fabric of all things. Mana, the lifeblood of magic, is the energy that flowed through the world, connecting everything and everyone. It is the raw essence that mages tap into to wield their powers."
Alex envisioned mana as vibrant energy, shimmering and pulsating within and around every living being and object. It was the wellspring from which magic drew its strength, and its intricate relationship with the world fascinated him.
The concept of mana intrigued Alex. He imagined it as a cosmic energy flowing through the world, connecting everything and everyone. The idea of tapping into this wellspring of power to shape reality filled him with a sense of excitement.
As the Apostles continued, imparting knowledge about the intricate progression system of mages and the different stages of mastery, Alex listened intently. He learned of the seven stages of mage progression, each comprising three sub-stages that represented increasing levels of skill and understanding. The names of the stages resonated within him, signifying the path that lay ahead: Novice, Adept, Maestro, Grandmaster, Sage, Luminary, and Archmage. Each stage promised greater mastery over the elements and the ability to wield magic with finesse and power.
Throughout the explanations, Alex's determination solidified like a flame steadily growing brighter. He realized that the road to becoming a true master of the elements would not be easy, but he was undeterred. The challenges that lay ahead only fuelled his desire to excel, to rise above, and become something that many only dreamed of becoming.