The headmaster saw through the collection of books lined before us and took out three thin books. As he handed them to me, I read the titles inscribed on each cover: "Healing Waters," "Aquatic Embrace," and "Aqua Blast." The possibilities held within those pages stirred my imagination.
Observing my interest, the headmaster proceeded to provide a brief description of each spell. He began with "Healing Waters," saying, "It is a spell that taps into the essence of water to enhance the body's natural regenerative properties. It can speed up the healing process and cleanse wounds, promoting overall well-being and recovery."
I nodded, envisioning the potential of such a spell in healing and tending to injuries. The headmaster then moved on to the next spell.
"Next, we have 'Aquatic Embrace.' This spell allows you to conjure a spherical shield of water, providing protection above land and enabling you to explore underwater environments without harm."
The idea of immersing myself in an aquatic environment without fear thrilled me, opening up possibilities for exploration and discovery. There was also the use of this spell as a shield which piqued my curiosity.
The headmaster's words filled me with anticipation for the spell's application. Finally, he introduced the last of the three spells.
Headmaster Hartley: "Lastly, we have one of the most common water spells 'Aqua Blast.' This spell harnesses the force of water to create a pressurized blast, capable of knocking back the enemy or if mastered properly allowing for it to cut through objects with ease."
The sheer force and versatility of this spell intrigued me, envisioning its potential for both offense and defense. As the headmaster concluded his descriptions, I couldn't contain my gratitude and curiosity any longer.
Alex: "Thank you, Headmaster Hartley, for entrusting me with these spellbooks. They hold great value to me, but I wonder, are they valuable in general?"
Headmaster Hartley regarded me with a wise gaze, contemplating his response.
Headmaster Hartley: "While these spellbooks may hold some value for a common family, in the grand scheme of things, they are considered basic knowledge within the Arcane Nexus Institute. I possess a vast collection of similar basic spells for each element, so these particular books do not hold significant importance to me personally."
Understanding his perspective, I nodded, appreciating his generosity and knowledge. I carefully placed the spellbooks in my storage ring, grateful for the opportunity they represented. It was then that the headmaster's expression shifted, showing surprise and astonishment.
I was internally alarmed at his sudden change in expression. I asked "Is something the matter, Headmaster? Did I do something wrong?"
The headmaster's expression again turned normal and he told the reason for his surprise. "No, quite the opposite, Alex. I couldn't help but notice that you possess a storage ring. It's a rare and invaluable tool, and only a handful of individuals within the institute, including myself, have one."
Surprised by his revelation, I blushed slightly, realizing the significance of my possession. I had thought it was originally useless, but later the apostles told me its uses. And now its rarity and usefulness are becoming apparent.
"I had no idea a storage ring was such a valuable item. I'm glad I got to know this sooner rather than later, and I will try to use it mindfully."
The headmaster smiled warmly, a glimmer of interest in his eyes.
He spoke warning me, "Indeed, Alex. The possession of a storage ring carries great danger especially if you lack the strength to safeguard it. It allows you to carry important items, spellbooks, and even artifacts with ease. Use it wisely, and it will serve you well."
Headmaster Hartley ushered me back into the room where our conversation had begun. He took his seat, reclaiming the spot he had previously occupied, and motioned for me to sit opposite him. As I settled into the chair, I looked back at the headmaster.
In a surprising display, the headmaster conjured a phone seemingly out of thin air. I guess he had stored it within his storage ring. With deftness, he dialed a number, and after a brief pause, a voice on the other end picked up the call.
Headmaster Hartley: "Sia, you can come back now."
Curiosity danced in my eyes as I wondered who Sia was and why her presence was necessary. The headmaster's enigmatic actions only fueled my intrigue.
As the call ended, the headmaster turned his attention back to me, his gaze unwavering.
Headmaster Hartley: "Now, Alex, do you have any further questions regarding your admission to the Arcane Nexus Institute?"
I hesitated for a moment, considering my words carefully.
Alex: "Actually, Headmaster Hartley, I was wondering if there would be any tests or assessments I need to undertake as part of my enrollment."
The headmaster's lips curled into a slight smile, his eyes glimmering with a mix of wisdom and fondness.
Headmaster Hartley: "As the most influential person within the Nexus, the least I can do is admit a special student like you without the need for traditional tests. Your exceptional affinity for water magic and the potential you possess are evident."
Relief washed over me as I absorbed his words, grateful for the trust and recognition he had placed in me.
Alex: "That's truly generous of you, Headmaster. But what about official documents? I don't have any identification papers or records."
Headmaster Hartley leaned back in his chair, considering my question with a thoughtful expression.
Headmaster Hartley: "Fear not, Alex. Your official documents in this world will be taken care of. You will be registered as an orphan, and your identification papers will state that you have been privately tutored by me since a young age. The information will be accessible only to a select few thanks to my connections with the higher-ups of this country. Rest assured, your identity and background will be protected."
A sense of relief washed over me as the headmaster reassured me of the measures taken to ensure my enrollment in the institute. I could finally let go of the worries that had weighed on my mind.
Feeling a surge of gratitude, I looked into the headmaster's eyes and spoke earnestly.
Alex: "Headmaster Hartley, I can never truly repay you for all that you have done for me. If there is anything within my power that I can do to express my gratitude, please do not hesitate to ask."
The headmaster's smile deepened, his gaze filled with a mix of pride and warmth. Though he remained silent, his expression conveyed a sense of satisfaction in witnessing the gratitude I held within my heart.
Alex: "I am here to learn and grow, not only for myself but also to contribute to the greater good. If there is ever a task or duty that requires my assistance, please consider me at your service."