***
In the realm of the Divine Arcane, where reality transcended imagination, a breathtaking landscape unfurled. One could sense a sensation of wonder that surpassed explanation as they hovered above a sea of iridescent clouds on a brilliant floating island. The sky above was a kaleidoscope of hues, as though a heavenly artist had painted the skies with a palette. A warm, golden sun bathed the land in a gentle radiance, casting long, soft shadows that seemed to dance to an ethereal tune.
Venturing forward, an extraordinary mode of transportation awaited. It was a magnificent, crystalline carriage adorned with intricate, luminescent patterns that seemed to shift and shimmer with a life of its own. This remarkable vehicle, propelled by an arcane force, beckoned all to embark, feeling as if it were part of the very essence of this realm, an extension of the divine beauty that surrounded it.
The architecture in this celestial domain was unlike anything ever conceived by mortal hands. Towers of pearl and alabaster spiraled gracefully towards the heavens, their spires disappearing into the clouds. Bridges made of gossamer strands of light connected floating islands, creating a network of ethereal walkways that seemed to defy gravity. Each structure was a masterpiece, and every arch, column, and dome exuded a sense of enchantment and wonder.
As one traversed this otherworldly landscape, a mystic aura enveloped. The air was imbued with a sweet, intoxicating fragrance, and a gentle, melodious hum resonated through the being. Flowers of colors unseen in the mortal world bloomed in abundance, their petals releasing a soft, radiant glow.
The room was heavy with an oppressive silence, broken only by the rhythmic ticking of an ancient, ornate clock that hung on the wall. The Divine Head, a formidable figure with lines etched deep into his face, stood at one end of the room, his eyes ablaze with anger. His daughter, a striking vision of beauty with the same intense gaze, stood at the other end, her defiance and regret clashing like opposing forces in the confined space.
The father's voice finally shattered the silence with a thunderous boom that reverberated through the room. "Do you comprehend the gravity of what you've done?" he demanded, his voice laced with authority. "Our rules exist to safeguard our people, and yet you, my own blood, chose to ignore them!
What prompted you to think of it and visit again? Weren't you prohibited? What if he gets into trouble? "
"Father," she began, her voice unwavering despite the storm of emotions raging within her. "I had to see him for myself. I had to know if what we're doing is right or if there's another way."
The tension hung thick in the air as their words collided. The father's anger clashed with his daughter's conviction—a clash of generations and ideologies. In that charged moment, the fate of their clan and their relationship teetered on a precipice, awaiting resolution.
***
Gerald hurriedly ran outside to inquire from the neighbors about the sudden change in the schedule of the awakening ceremony.
"Didn't you hear? The awakening was moved up due to the impending long winter," one of the neighbors informed him.
"What wild conclusions you're making. The King's announcement didn't mention any of this," the woman scolded her husband for adding to the story.
"There's even better news, Gerald. They say every village will have its awakening ceremony. The beloved King has deployed numerous Arcane masters and sought assistance from the Salamanca School of Magic," another neighbor chimed in.
"Why such a sudden decision from the King?" Gerald couldn't help but ask. This announcement had only been spread throughout the Kingdom of Salamanca this afternoon.
Hence, parents from every village gathered in one place, and the talk of the town was the upcoming awakening ceremony.
***
While the Kingdom of Salamanca doesn't have a vast territory, its population exceeds roughly 50 million.
The School for Arcane in the entire kingdom is only one—the Salamanca School of Magic. This compels some to travel miles and miles to reach a neighboring kingdom with more Arcane schools. Nonetheless, each kingdom still strives to establish multiple awakening centers to provide more opportunities for the youth to awaken their arcane powers and contribute to the overall well-being of each realm.
The Kingdom of Salamanca is divided into five regions. Salamanca East, West, South, North, and Central Regions.
Salamanca East Region
Salamanca's eastern region is a land of bustling commerce and vibrant activity. Eastport City, with its busy Harbor District and lively Market Square, is a hub for trade. Rivertown, along the scenic riverbanks, is known for its Riverside Quarters and serene Riverside Park. Whitewood Village, nestled in the heart of the forest, boasts Whitewood Farms and a charming Village Square where residents gather.
Salamanca West Region
To the west lies a region of grandeur and elegance. Westhaven City stands proudly with its bustling Merchant's Quarter, and Westside Residential Area. Lakewood Town, situated by a picturesque lake, features a Lakeside Promenade and Lakewood Marketplace. Greenhill Village, surrounded by lush orchards, radiates a cozy ambiance centered around Greenhill Orchards and the Village Commons.
Salamanca South Region
The southern expanse is bathed in warm sunlight and rural charm. Sunridge City, crowned by the Sunridge Citadel, teems with life in its Artisan's District and Southside Residential Area. Goldenfields, with its Fields of Grain, hosts a lively Golden Marketplace. In the heart of the countryside, Sunflower Hamlet blooms with Sunflower Gardens and a welcoming Hamlet Center.
Salamanca North Region
Venturing north leads to a land of icy splendor. Snowpeak City, guarded by the formidable Citadel of Frost, is a city of contrasts, featuring the Northgate Market and Northside Residential Area. Nearby, Frostfall Village nestles in the Frostfall Woods, offering a cozy respite around its Village Hearth. Crystal Lake's serene shores are dotted with Lakeside Cabins, a tranquil escape.
Salamanca Central Region
At the heart of the kingdom lies Salamanca's central region and the Royal Palace, marked by elegance and cultural richness. Silverstone City boasts the Royal Court, the bustling Craftsmen's Quarter, and a verdant Central Park. Oakwood Town, known for its Oakwood Square and Artisan's Workshops, thrives on craftsmanship. Nearby Hollowbrook Village, nestled in the Hollowbrook Woods, exudes a sense of community with its Village Commons.
The father and son reside in Whitewood Village of Salamanca East Region, a place bustling with people. However, their village thrives with abundant crops, ensuring that the father and son never go hungry. Their willingness to help others has fostered a spirit of generosity among the villagers, who readily offer assistance when needed.
***
"Fortunately, we returned home earlier," Gerald remarked.
"You said it! I thought you had no plans to give your child a break."
"Even if I bring him back home, if he knows I'm still out gathering firewood, you know how he is." Gerald scratched his head in frustration, acknowledging Sebastian's personality. This was precisely why he preferred his child to pursue a full-time arcane education, as in this manner, Gerald was confident his son wouldn't let him down.
"Who wouldn't be proud of such a trait in their child?" Gerald mused, his voice tinged with admiration as he spoke of Sebastian.
Several of their neighbors, who had gathered to discuss the upcoming awakening ceremony, chimed in. Margaret, an elderly woman with a warm smile, added, "Indeed, Gerald, you have a remarkable son."
"Absolutely," agreed Robert, a middle-aged man known for his wisdom. "If I had a child like him, I'd go to great lengths to help them achieve their dreams."
As the conversation continued, the focus remained on Sebastian. It was evident that Gerald held a deep sense of concern for his son's future, and his determination to guide Sebastian toward becoming a full-fledged Arcane master was unwavering.
"Sebastian, you're aware that my older brother is an Auxiliary Arcane, aren't you?" Izy queried, her eyes filled with anticipation.
Sebastian, intrigued, replied, "Yes, indeed. But why do you bring this up now?"
A sly grin played on Izy's lips as she boasted, "Well, when I finally awaken my Arcane power, I'm absolutely certain it will manifest as Elemental Arcane."
Sebastian chuckled and countered, "You should be careful with your confidence, Izy. You should be proud of your brother's abilities."
Izy waved off his caution with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, who would take pride in that when he's just a master of the culinary arts?" Her words dripped with playful sarcasm.
Izy's brother, Iñigo, was known for his Spoon Arcane, a unique power that allowed him to cook exquisite dishes. However, the true magic happened when he reached Tier 2: Apprentice level, where his culinary creations became nothing short of extraordinary...