In the extraordinary world of steam and magic, the evolution of magic classes is structured around a profound concept known as "Links." These Links represent the stages of an individual's magical development, much like chapters in their life story. As an aspiring magic user, one begins their journey as a "First Link" and can climb the ladder of magical mastery to unlock their true potential.
The first stage is where every journey commences, known as the "First Link" or the "Novice." In this stage, individuals grasp the very basics of their chosen magic path, whether it's Hydromancy, Pyromancy, Terramancy, or any other magical discipline. They learn the fundamental spells, practice the requisite rituals, incorporate and utilize the necessary steam equipment, and slowly start to attune themselves to the unique energies of their chosen path.
Upon gaining proficiency as a First Link, an individual progresses to the "Second Link," commonly referred to as the "Adept." At this stage, practitioners become more skilled and efficient in their magic. They can cast spells with greater precision and control. Adept magic users also unlock new abilities, honing their specialization within their chosen magical path.
Continuing the journey, the "Third Link" or "Virtuoso" stage awaits the aspiring magician. Virtuosos are known for their expertise, having delved deeper into their chosen discipline. They can cast intricate spells, master more complex rituals, and exhibit extraordinary control over their magical powers. Many Virtuosos develop unique techniques and variations in their spells that set them apart from the Adept practitioners.
Reaching the "Fourth Link" or "Master" status is a defining achievement in the world of magic. Masters have become true authorities in their field of magic. They not only possess an expansive repertoire of spells but can also adapt and improvise with ease. Their magical abilities are now both formidable and versatile. At this stage, they may even begin to explore the borders of their magical path, seeking to push beyond known boundaries.
The pinnacle of magical mastery is achieved at the "Fifth Link," often referred to as the "Ascendant." Ascendants are few and far between, having transcended their original magical path. They possess an unparalleled understanding of magic and may even possess the ability to combine different magical disciplines, creating entirely new forms of magic. These are the visionaries, the true wizards and sorcerers, who can reshape the world with their magical prowess.
The journey from a First Link to an Ascendant is a path filled with learning, exploration, and self-discovery. While many aspire to reach the higher Links, it is a path that demands dedication, unwavering commitment, and, often, a unique talent for innovation within the chosen magical path. Each Link represents a chapter in the magical odyssey of an individual, a story of growth, understanding, and the unfolding of untold potential.
And on this path of steam and magic, there have been stories. Stories of untold mysteries, battles, and legendary discoveries. But the most intriguing one might be the story, where there was once a young man who stranded himself in the mountains to rust his skills, just to enjoy his next battle. Nobody ever found out whether this was a true story, except for one young man. The same very young man who had stranded himself. His name was…
"Glover Wither. The One-On-One Demon of Paradoxia. A living legend of great stories… such a shame that you've fallen into such a disgusting state. Your link has diminished into a secondary one. Aren't you embarrassed?" The man smiled his grin something you would only see on a devil.
"It's still enough to defeat your sorry ass… you were the one who wanted this anyway. Requesting such a gig was a bold move. Were you hoping some of my men would embarrass themselves?" Glover smiled back, his sunglasses cracking under the pressure of an intense heat radiating off of his body.
"Of course," The man chuckled before sliding his eyes right back over to Silas. Just Silas. His eyes were practically burning a hole through his forehead. "But you sent a stupid kid… you insult me."
"Why not," Glover's grin widened, his mechanical eyes with all eight pupils in total squirming in different directions. It was as if they were attempting to gather as much information as possible before their fight. "That kid's gonna be something big. Thought I'd give him a shot."
"Stop lying. I know you don't give a shit about anybody but yourself."
Glover spoke nothing.
The burnt-down theater provided a gloomy and eerie backdrop for the fight that was about to unfold. Glover, perched high on the top balcony, peered down at Sheek, who stood on the charred velvety floor, their eyes locked in a tense showdown. Both fighters knew the stakes were high.
"What's his name?" Silas asked as Glover jumped down from the balcony, his landing broken by a sudden splash of coal-black ash.
"Sheek. The one and only time-controlling fiend within this city," Emily swiftly replied before the fight broke out in an instant.
Glover initiated the fight with a powerful straight kick, his leg moving like a piston, aimed at Sheek's midsection. Sheek swiftly raised his knee, blocking the strike while launching a counterattack. With a rapid back fist, he aimed for Glover's face, but he leaned back to evade, causing Sheek's blow to sail past.
Glover retaliated with a nutcracker kick, deceiving Sheek as he initially aimed low. But then, his leg swept upward, targeting the inside of Sheek's standing leg. Sheek hopped back to avoid the unexpected attack, creating distance between them.
Not to be outdone, Sheek unleashed a lightning-fast front kick, their knee rising to waist height, and their foot extending outward with blinding speed. Glover, however, stepped back, evading the kick's trajectory. With a smirk, Glover launched an axe heel kick, swinging his leg upwards above head height and pulling it down with the heel aimed at Sheek's head. The fierce kick forced Sheek to twist their body to the side, narrowly dodging the attack.
The fighters continued to trade blows, with Glover using his elbow strikes and Sheek demonstrating insane precision with knife-hand strikes. They both threw kicks that sent ash and debris flying through the air, adding an extra layer of chaos to the already intense battle.
As the fight raged on, it was clear that neither Glover nor Sheek intended to use their steam first. They wanted to wait for the other to make their first move… and so, after a couple more exchanges purely fueled by martial arts, one activated their steam.
Glover had made the first real move.