As Elian's fingers made contact with the cold surface of the orb...
What they witnessed left both of them flabbergasted; there was a single cluster of light in the middle of the orb. The examiner was caught off guard; it was his first time seeing such a multitude of lights forming a cluster. Usually, there would be a solitary spot of iridescent light, symbolizing the ever-changing nature of Aetheric Essence.
Even for talents higher than F, the lights rarely touched each other, and even if they did, they wouldn't merge to form a cluster.
This was unprecedented, and the examiner couldn't help but be baffled by the anomaly before him, though baffled, he didn't want to lose his composure as an authority figure.
Both Elian and the examiner observed the iridescent cluster of light with intense curiosity. To Elian, it bore a striking resemblance to the 'molecules' he had learned about in his previous life. He couldn't help but wonder if Aetheric Essence served as the fundamental building blocks of everything in this world, much like atoms did on Earth. Perhaps it was merely a matter of definition.
After a long observation of the anomalous cluster of light, the examiner didn't gain any further insights. He meticulously noted down all of its characteristics for his report to the head office. Once done, he addressed Elian, "Let's go." With that, he led them out of the room, where Arthur anxiously awaited their return.
"How did it go?" Arthur inquired, his excitement evident.
"The good news is that Elian indeed possesses a talent in refinement," the examiner began, "but we need to determine the extent of that talent. It's not as straightforward as you might think."
Arthur, perplexed by the examiner's words, asked, "Why's that? Isn't it just a matter of counting the lights? The talent grade is based on the number of lights, so what's the complication?"
"I can't divulge the specifics. You'll have to wait for the official results," the examiner replied cryptically. He then turned to Elian, advising, "As for you, Elian, I hope you'll keep this matter confidential until we unravel the anomaly."
Elian, feeling a sense of unease about the assessment outcome, questioned, "Is everything alright, sir?"
The examiner sighed and responded, "At the very least, we've confirmed your talent. Now, we just need to find the cause of this anomaly." He turned to Arthur and instructed, "Sir Arthur, please take Sir Elian to the school quarters and ensure he's settled in. Keep the details of this assessment strictly confidential until the authorities say otherwise."
"Got it, Sir." Arthur replied before guiding Elian out of the building. Once they were away from prying ears, Arthur couldn't resist offering some words of encouragement.
"Hey, congrats," Arthur said with a warm smile. "You're one step closer to your goal now. We just gotta wait for the results, but it's pretty clear you've got the talent. And remember, even if talent's lacking a bit, hard work and determination can make up for it."
Elian's face, marked with nervousness and conflict, seemed to ease a little at Arthur's comforting words. It was a reassuring reminder that sometimes, sheer determination and effort could bridge the gap when chasing one's dreams.
Arthur guided Elian to an underground parking area and motioned toward a sleek vehicle that looked like a convertible. It had a matte black finish and a design resembling a fancy sports car. Elian, curious about this world's technology, couldn't help but inspect it closely. He noticed that this vehicle didn't rely on traditional engines, electricity, or fuels. Instead, it had peculiar inscriptions on its body that he couldn't decipher, and there were lines running along its exterior that resembled human veins.
Seeing Elian's fascination, Arthur began to explain, "This is the 'LunaShadow X8'."
With a hint of pride, Arthur introduced it further, "The LunaShadow X8 isn't your average ride; it's a symbol of sophistication and nighttime escapades. The name 'LunaShadow' hints at its sleek matte black appearance, reminiscent of the night sky. The 'X8' signifies its advanced technology and high-powered performance."
"As you glide your hand along the velvety matte black surface of the LunaShadow X8, you'll notice a fascinating feature - delicate, indented 'veins' that adorn its body. In the darkness of night, they remain concealed, adding to the vehicle's already captivating allure. Yet, when you examine them closely, they emerge, lending an aura of mystery and refinement to the vehicle's already charming presence."
Arthur then climbed into the vehicle and started it up. A mesmerizing network of these intricate veins that decorated its surface came to life, illuminating with a dazzling display of lights. The hum of the advanced technology within, like a subtle heartbeat, resonated beneath the surface. It was a sensory journey that submerged you into the thrilling realm of this remarkable vehicle, where every sound whispered tales of precision engineering and untamed spirit.
Elian couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement as he contemplated the possibility of merging the technological wonders of his old world with this fascinating new realm.
. . .
With a friendly laugh, Elian accepted Arthur's guidance, hopping into the LunaShadow X8. As they embarked on their journey, Arthur shared the plan for their next destination. "Let's hit the road. I'll take you to the student quarters. It's a bit of a ride from here, but once we arrive, you'll have your own cozy room, a fresh uniform, and all the essentials. Even though you're not officially a student yet, our accommodations beat those hotels any day. Plus, you can freshen up; you do look a bit like a wanderer in those clothes."
Elian chuckled at Arthur's candidness. "No need to sugarcoat it, huh?"
"By the way," Elain began, a hint of curiosity in his voice, "I couldn't help but notice how Sir Lucas and the examiner treated you with a lot of respect. And this fancy car of yours, it doesn't seem like something a regular officer would have. So, spill the beans, who are you really?"
Arthur's grin widened, and his eyes stayed fixed on the road as the LunaShadow X8 glided along smoothly. "You've got quite the observant eye there, Elian," he said. "Actually, I come from a noble family in these parts, and both Lucas and the examiner we met earlier are old pals of my dad. Lucas, well, he's like a second father to me, really. He's been my guiding star since I was a child."
His expression turned somewhat somber as he continued, "Now, the thing is, unlike my parents and my siblings, I'm not cut out for summoning. So, I'm trying to make up for it by learning about how regular folks live. Maybe one day, I can lend a hand to my siblings when they take over the family and help manage some of their responsibilities."
Arthur, a descendant of a prominent noble lineage in the village, wore his heritage with a certain air of grace and dignity. His family name was well-respected, carrying with it a long history of service and leadership within the community. This noble background explained the reverence he received from others and the privileges afforded to him, such as the LunaShadow X8.
However, despite his noble lineage, Arthur had a down-to-earth and friendly demeanor. He didn't let his heritage define him, and he treated everyone he met with respect, regardless of their background. This quality endeared him to many, making him a well-liked figure within the village.
Elian couldn't help but ponder for a moment. Thinking, "In the novels I used to read back in my old world, stories often went like this. The siblings would end up resenting the one who couldn't wield power, misunderstanding their intentions of helping the family. The resentment would grow, leading to plots and schemes, and in the end, it would come down to a tragic clash, even bloodshed."
He looked at Arthur, concern in his eyes. "I hope it doesn't turn out like that for you." Elian chose to keep his thoughts to himself, the silent moments stretching between them. Maybe, he thought, reality didn't always mirror the cruelty depicted in stories.
As they arrived at the school, they smoothly went through the necessary procedures, including confirmation with the head. Since the examiner had gone to the head office to report the anomaly regarding Elian's talent, the authorities decided it would be prudent to keep Elian within close proximity. The solution was to accept him as one of the students, ensuring they could monitor his progress and investigate further.
Once they reached the school quarters, Arthur couldn't help but take in the surroundings. It was his first time in this area, as he hadn't enrolled in the school himself. This institution was exclusively for individuals with the potential to become summoners, a group Arthur didn't belong to.
After helping Elian settle into his room, Arthur bid him farewell. He mentioned that he would be returning to his post and might visit Elian if time permitted. Elian, who had arrived with nothing, didn't feel overly concerned. The room provided everything he needed: a central bed, a table, a spacious carpet, a refrigerator, a private bathroom, and a study desk. An empty shelf and a closet offered storage space for his belongings, making it a comfortable and well-equipped place to stay.
Elian had been waiting in his room for a while when he heard a knock at the door. Opening it, he found a student standing there, holding two briefcases. The student quickly inquired, "Elian?" Elian nodded in confirmation, and the student handed over the two briefcases, stating, "These are the standard uniforms provided by the school. You'll be called to the garment section later for your fitting, where you'll receive a battle suit tailored specifically for you. In the meantime, this one contains some casual clothes and other necessities. Please check the contents and sign this paper so I can be on my way." The student seemed to regard Elian with a touch of disdain due to his disheveled appearance.
"Wow, they even provide undergarments. This is some top-tier room service." Elian remarked with a chuckle. Elian, unfazed by the attitude, proceeded to inspect the contents of both briefcases before signing the paper as requested.
After the student left, he decided to take the opportunity to clean himself up.
As Elian was drying himself off after a refreshing bath in the bathroom, he happened to glance at the full-length mirror. To his astonishment, a massive tattoo adorned his back, resembling a complex transmutation circle filled with cryptic symbols he couldn't recognize. It looked like the kind of intricate markings one might expect to find inscribed on the floor for summoning otherworldly entities.
He couldn't see the entire tattoo in the mirror, only catching glimpses of it from the side. Thoughts raced through his mind. "What is this? Is it some kind of tattoo? Could it be connected to my summoning into this world? Should I report it to the examiner? There might be a link between this mysterious tattoo and the anomaly during the assessment. But I don't understand its meaning, and it might be dangerous..."
After a heated internal debate, Elian ultimately decided it was wiser to keep the existence of the tattoo a secret for the time being. He reasoned that he could gradually research the meaning of these enigmatic symbols on his own.