Amidst the cacophonous energy of the front stage, a stark contrast unfolded behind the scenes. Here, in the backstage area, a profound silence enveloped the 180 children gathered. They sat in a state of deep meditation, guided by none other than Alcala, a senior arcanist hailing from the prestigious Salamanca School of Magic. This year marked a significant milestone for her, as she was on the cusp of graduation, and her journey had led her to the serene confines of Whitewood Village.
In her role as the awakening ceremony's administrator for the village, Alcala worked in tandem with two arcanists dispatched from the Royal Palace. Together, they formed the guardians of this solemn rite, ensuring that every child had the best chance to awaken their latent arcane powers.
As the children sat in meditation, Alcala, addressed them with a word of advice:
"Dear young ones, as you embark on this sacred journey to awaken your arcane powers, remember that true strength comes not only from your abilities but from the purity of your intentions. Stay true to your heart's calling, and let compassion and wisdom guide your path. In moments of doubt, trust in your inner light, for it is that light that will illuminate the darkest of challenges. Embrace this process with patience and resilience, and may your newfound powers be a force for good in our world."
"Allow your souls to define who you'll become, not your desires or your intellect," Alcala, the senior arcanist, spoke with a wisdom that belied her years. Her gaze encompassed the children in meditation, and her words carried the weight of experience.
"Embrace resilience and remain steadfast in the face of life's challenges," she continued, her voice unwavering. "If, by chance, you stumble, remember that your strength will be magnified when you rise again."
Alcala's reminiscence was inevitable as she offered her guidance. She recalled her own youthful days when there were only three successful awakenings in their Village. The memory still tugged at her heart. She couldn't forget her two companions, bound by their shared mission to venture into the perilous 'Brosque de Peligro' in search of rare herbs.
As fate would have it, they had encountered 'the Arcane Simian,' known as Apeiron, an adversary of unexpected power. Their camaraderie was unprepared for the fierce onslaught, and they were nearly overwhelmed by its strength. What made matters more challenging was Apeiron's status as a Tier 1: Initiate level master, an opponent beyond their capabilities. In a brave act of sacrifice, Alcala's two companions had summoned the courage to confront the formidable foe, ensuring her survival in the process. Their memory remained etched in her heart, a testament to the bonds forged in the crucible of adversity.
(NOTE:
Name: Apeiron, the Arcane Simian
Ability: Kinetic Mimicry (Partial)
Apeiron, the Arcane Simian, possesses the unique ability of Partial Kinetic Mimicry. With a physique reminiscent of a monkey, it exhibits remarkable agility and adaptability. Apeiron can observe and partially mimic the movements, skills, and abilities of creatures it encounters, replicating up to 70% of their capabilities. This limited mimicry allows it to adapt and respond effectively to a variety of challenges, making it a resourceful companion in diverse situations.)
While the children were deeply engrossed in meditation, Alcala found herself lost in thought. Suddenly, a burst of light emanated from the rear of the meditating group. Alcala couldn't help but draw a deep breath as she widened her eyes, redirecting her gaze toward the source of the brilliance.
As she read the name tag affixed to the young participant, it revealed his name to be Henry. 'A promising young one,' she thought.
Behind Henry, an arcane weapon materialized, and it took the form of dual swords. Joy swelled in Alcala's heart. It was a rare occurrence for a higher-level arcane power to manifest during a first awakening. Whether in the shape of a dual sword or any other form, the appearance of an arcane weapon ensured a 100% chance of entry into the school. Swords symbolized warriors, and the potential of this weapon was boundless.
Yet, as Alcala marveled at the sight, a disquieting feeling crept over her. There was something peculiar about the dual swords that had manifested behind young Henry. The aura surrounding them seemed to emanate from an expert arcanist, sending a bone-chilling shiver down Alcala's spine. Her skin prickled as she observed that the dual sword projection behind Henry was encircled by an ethereal snowfall, as if this effect was part of the sword's unique design.
"Twin... Twin... TWIN ARCANIST!" Alcala stammered, her voice trembling as she beheld the extraordinary sight before her. 'A twin arcanist,' she whispered, her eyes widened in awe. Twin arcanists were individuals who had awakened not one but two arcane powers, whether they were two distinct abilities or a fusion of the two. What Alcala now witnessed was the convergence of elemental arcane and weapon arcane—an intricate combination that represented a fusion of both arcane powers. While the potential of a higher-level arcane weapon was considered limitless among the people of the Kingdom of Salamanca, the concept of twin arcane powers was nearly unimaginable.
Presently, Salamanca boasted six twin arcanists, all of whom held prestigious positions within the kingdom. Even the king himself held them in the highest regard.
Another reason why these six arcanists commanded immense respect was rooted in the institution from which they had emerged—a place so renowned that its name remained unspoken, even within the Kingdom of Salamanca itself.
Alcala was still trying to process what she had just witnessed when suddenly, two more bursts of light emerged, this time from the front. White Quqin and a black flute followed suit. As the young lady heard the sounds they produced, her entire body quivered uncontrollably, a reaction she couldn't hide. Even the two accompanying arcanists from the Royal Palace showed signs of surprise.
"This..." Alcala could only utter a single word in response.
The ones who had awakened the white guqin and black flute were none other than the twins, Emily and Emma. Alcala had once read about this legendary arcane power in a book. Although these two were auxiliary arcanists, their abilities were unique, as they weren't limited to boosting other powers. According to the myth, they possessed a spiritual attack that could invade an arcanist's mind.
This arcane power was known as the Song of the Twin Phoenix.
But what was even more frightening about the arcane power of these twins was their fusion ability. They could potentially strengthen an entire kingdom's army if cultivated, even at the novice Tier 3: Journeyman level. While Alcala was filled with astonishment, excitement played across her face.
Meanwhile, the people in the front stage remained oblivious to the ongoing developments, their surroundings still filled with noise. However, they couldn't ignore the fact that some of the children had already awakened, thanks to the powerful bursts of light emanating from them.
Due to these extraordinary events, Alcala could no longer restrain herself from relaying a message through her transmission stones. Even the two Royal arcanists sent their own intel about the situation.
But before they could send their messages, a new burst of light emerged from one of the children. "How is this even possible?!" Alcala exclaimed, even more surprised this time. Another auxiliary arcane had projected behind an innocent-looking boy named Lysander, although the child was male, his face radiated innocence. "Lysander." "How did herbs become an arcane power?"
Alcala's mind was flooded with questions.
She had heard her teachers talk about the Tranquilith plant before.
The Tranquilith Plant, a small and unassuming botanical wonder, holds a unique place in the world of arcane enchantment. At first glance, it appears as an unremarkable plant with delicate emerald leaves and dainty lilac blossoms. However, the moment it emerges in its pristine form, a palpable sense of calmness blankets its surroundings.
The Tranquilith is known to possess the extraordinary ability to channel and magnify the latent arcane energies present in its vicinity. As it grows, its leaves shimmer with a gentle, soothing aura, and the petals of its blossoms emit a faint, ethereal glow. Those who approach it often describe feeling a serene tranquility washing over them, calming their minds and easing their worries.
Arcane practitioners and enchanters hold the Tranquilith in high regard, for it can enhance their magical abilities. When a skilled arcanist comes into contact with the plant, their powers become more focused and controlled. They find it easier to enter deep states of meditation, unlocking new depths of arcane mastery.
The Tranquilith Plant is often cultivated in secret gardens by mystics and scholars, carefully tended by those who seek to harness its calming and amplifying properties. In the world of magic, this unassuming plant has earned a place of reverence, as its mere presence brings a sense of harmony and balance to the mystical arts.