Two years flew by swiftly, and Nova and Tim had made remarkable progress in their training at the Arcane Spell-Blade Academy. Nova, under the guidance of Lady Scarecrow, had honed his swordsmanship skills to a level that left his fellow apprentices in awe. He had become adept at the Neo-Heim style of combat, a style he had developed himself, which combined creativity, agility, and precision.
Tim, on the other hand, had grown into a formidable defender under King Lion's tutelage. He could now use his dual shields not just for protection but also as effective weapons. His understanding of combat strategy and defense had become unparalleled.
Their bond with their mentors had deepened over the years. Lady Scarecrow, despite her unique appearance, had proven to be a compassionate and wise teacher, while King Lion's patience and strength had guided Tim to new heights.
However, there was one curious aspect that had intrigued Nova. Both Lady Scarecrow and King Lion occasionally made references to characters from Nova's modern world take on the Land of Oz. It was perplexing, as the Land of Oz in this world was vastly different from the one Nova had known from books and movies. Nevertheless, he brushed it off as a strange quirk and focused on his training.
In his spare time, Nova had developed a new hobby – tending to magical plants in secret personal pottery hidden within the academy grounds. He had a reason for doing this, a reason that would be revealed in due time.
Meanwhile, it's Offday today (weekends)for 1st of the 4 off-days as Nova and Tim prepare to take a break.!!! Frankly, Tim's concern for Nova's extended slumber was evident as he gently woke his roommate from deep sleep. With a soft but firm tone, he urged Nova to rise, emphasizing the importance of making the most of their off days.
"Hey, I know these are our precious breaks outside of Academy duties and our Vows, but don't oversleep like a hibernating Bestialkin!" Tim kindly chided, his concern for their day's activities evident.
Nova grumbled "A few more minuets (Minutes in this world)" as Tim cutely huffed and pulled Nova's blanket away "Get up or we're going to miss the special sale of bake goods from the capital!!" Nova, still groggy from sleep, grumbled a bit but then perked up instantly when Tim mentioned the special sale of baked goods in the capital. His emerald eyes lit up with excitement as he realized what he'd been missing.
"What?! Really?" he exclaimed [ Nova's emerald eyes lit up with excitement ], a mix of regret and enthusiasm in his voice. "Sorry for being a heavy sleeper," he added with a sheepish chuckle.
Tim sighs "It's okay yet did Lady Scarecrow's training affect you so much during acti-days?"
Tim's concern was evident as he asked Nova about the impact of Lady Scarecrow's training on him during the weekdays. Nova, still rubbing the sleep from his eyes, replied, "Yeah, her training can be intense. But it's worth it. I'm getting stronger every day. And hey, now I'm wide awake, ready for those baked goods!"
Tim Sighs with a chuckle, knows Nova can be quite the foodie person of any good delicacy as it was evident of their Time of 2 years in this academy together (and half of those weekdays outside combat training were magic classes), it seems Tim vastly improved and even can have a familiar (during summoning classes) that is a rare mystical Blue Macaw bird that can make up for its master's magicless state and named Ptsi [has elemental magic of Aero(air/wind)] yet can only be summoned through a paper talisman with the summon sigil unto it (same for Nova, his familiar an Okuri-Inu Yokai and named it Fenir base on his secret interest of mythology to reference that and besides despite it being ferociously, it's different when it's with the master for cuddles and acts like a tame dog..different from its Yokai stories)
As Tim and Nova chatted about their progress and familiars, it became clear that their time at the academy had been transformative. They had grown not only in combat skills but also in their understanding of magic and the mystical world around them. Tim's familiar, Ptsi, seemed like a valuable addition, compensating for his magicless state, while Nova's Fenir, the Okuri-Inu Yokai, provided a unique and loyal companion. Together, they had come a long way since their days in the Garnet Kingdom.
It was heartwarming to see that despite the distance, Tim maintained a strong connection with Oz. Using Ptsi to send letters and updates showed their enduring friendship and commitment to their shared goal of finding Dorothy. The bond between these friends remained unbroken, even as they pursued their individual paths and adventures.
Anyways back to the main topic is it is offdays for Tim and Nova to travel around the corners of Emerald City (the Capital name of Chorite/Indigo Kingdom) they stumble across after buying their rare baked snacks Lady Scarecrow not in her typical warriors uniform, but a maiden farmer dress suiting for her style as she politely greets them as Tim politely spoke in awe if she needs any help since she holds groceries (but the dialogue shows she does not need as she is almost done although she surprises her apprentice didn't volunteer of assistance. Yet Nova excuse it because he is aware of his Mentor/Senior's individuality)
Lady Scarecrow's change of attire was indeed a surprise to Tim and Nova. Tim's polite offer to help with her groceries demonstrated his kindness, while Nova's understanding of her individuality showed his respect for his mentor. It's clear that their bond had grown stronger over the two years of training, allowing them to connect not only as mentor and apprentice but also as friends.
Then she excuses herself to be on her day off [offdays]. while Nova teases Tim despite a slow progress of social confidence to the residence of this place (he is slightly blushing once Lady Scarecrow) "Well ~ your mentor sure is beautiful despite being humanoid golem made from an Elven Alchemist scholar"
Nova's playful teasing about Lady Scarecrow's beauty showed his mischievous side, and it seemed like he was trying to help Tim become more at ease in social situations. Tim's slight blush indicated that he might still be working on his confidence, especially around people like Lady Scarecrow.
Then their dialogue shifts to what Nova says as he finishes his chocolate-filled bread "Ohh right!!! I forgot!!!! It's today we get to visit that Smith workshop of my custom weapon to be made!!" His eyes turned into star-shaped pupil and sparkled as Tim smiled "right that's why I keep waking you up earlier too.."
It seems Nova was so excited about visiting the blacksmith workshop to get his custom weapon made that he forgot about it until Tim reminded him. Tim's understanding smile indicated their strong friendship and how they complemented each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Tim: "Shall we get going?"
Nova nodded eagerly, his enthusiasm shining through. "Absolutely! Let's head to the blacksmith workshop. I can't wait to see what they'll create for me." The two friends set off, ready for their next adventure in the vibrant world of Coloria.
Finally, they met a Dwarf blacksmith with some boost of steps off the counter (has a beard and baldness) and is a bit grumpy not because of the boys it's because it took him lots of time to POLISH and refine the sword being made from the chunk of ancient rare materials Nova bought, so it is expensive until he smirks and told the boys if Nova (the client) can show he can wield it, it's enough to make this blacksmith smile for a work worth it and the payment is to satisfy his client the most.
Nova's eyes gleamed with excitement as he accepted the challenge. "I'll show you that this sword was worth every bit of your effort," he declared confidently. He carefully took the finely crafted sword in hand, feeling the weight and balance. With a fluid motion, he swung it through the air, demonstrating his skill with the weapon. The sword moved gracefully, reflecting the hours of craftsmanship put into it.
The blacksmith's grumpy demeanor began to fade, replaced by a growing satisfaction. "Not bad, not bad at all," he muttered, nodding in approval.
Tim watched with admiration, proud of his friend's abilities. He knew that Nova was about to receive a remarkable weapon that would aid them in their adventures ahead.
Then Nova finally sheath it back to the obsidian scabbard (same material) as his sword, then clicked a belt to his waist side and bows to thank the smith who chuckles "No my boy, you sure have a good eye and my intuition to accept your custom request is right!!!"
Nova grinned and extended a hand to shake the blacksmith. "Thank you for creating such a fantastic weapon. It's an honor to wield something of this craftsmanship."
The blacksmith firmly shook Nova's hand. "Take good care of it, lad. That sword's got a bit of history in it, you know."
Nova nodded in understanding and respect. He then turned to Tim, excitement still bubbling within him. "Tim, let's go give this sword a real test."
Before Tim thanked the smith as they bowed and helped, he spoke "Remember Article 36 of the Sacred Context and State 12 of the Academy Policy…we're not supposed to TRAIN during offdays remember?" Before Nova smirks "Yes but don't worry it's erm-a try-out gift, There's no violation when I tried it at the Smith shop earlier. No whatever alert being a violator? And the dwarf's reaction doesn't seem I did a taboo either"
Tim laughed, realizing that Nova had found a clever way to justify their little training session. "You do have a point, Nova. Let's give that sword a test run. Maybe we'll discover some of its hidden abilities."
With that, they left the blacksmith's shop, Nova eagerly brandishing his new sword, and headed to an open training area where they could put the weapon through its paces.
Nods before saying he may need to do it himself on the fields to not bother anyone somewhere while Tim nodded and spoke he would return to the Academy with their snack goods in the dorm Nova minded his business to units casually testing as he felt the sword is very light at least to his eyes (according to Lady Scarecrow, that her golem relic eyes can evaluate mana and the person's experience and can tell significantly that Nova is at on equal Match with her and feet he has the potential beyond) create a flashback dialogue into one of his trainings with Lady Scarecrow (her family or so-called inherited fighting style under her creator the elven alchemist Scholar's guidance called the Primal Style)
Flashback:
In a secluded training area of the academy, Nova and Lady Scarecrow were engaged in a vigorous sparring match. Lady Scarecrow, despite her somewhat unconventional appearance, moved with grace and precision.
"Remember, Nova," she said, her voice calm and melodic, "the Primal Style is all about balance and control. It's not just about brute strength."
Nova nodded, his focus unwavering. He had learned a great deal from her over the past two years. Lady Scarecrow was not only a talented warrior but also a patient and wise mentor.
Their wooden practice swords clashed, the sound echoing in the training area. Lady Scarecrow's movements were like a dance, flowing seamlessly from one technique to the next. Nova struggled to keep up but was determined to learn.
As their sparring continued, Nova could feel the weight of the training sword in his hand. He knew that one day he would have a weapon that truly matched his abilities. Little did he know that his dream was about to become a reality.
End of Flashback
With a newfound determination, Nova continued to test his new sword, feeling the weight of its potential power. He was eager to discover all that this weapon could offer and to continue his training under Lady Scarecrow's guidance.
Before he stops and gets startled by a curly redhead with heart shape birthmark on his forehead (heart shape pupils not to express love that's his genes) as it was Elite Combatant Red Prince Rank 1st place among seniors (Oh so this is the upperclassman Lady Scarecrow to one of our trainings about, the most powerful upperclassman 1st place yet doesn't accept underclassman due to Ego and the school accepted since his mother is the Red Queen of Hearts somewhere in the Garner Kingdom) as he apologize. , some dried lineages stained his custom design uniform (Red Prince Uniform specifically) and spoke to Nova with anger "Thy joust a Commoner underclassmen dares to violate both school rules and the Sacred Context!! I here say know why are you doing training during offday?" While Nova explains that no this isn't training he is just trying out his own personally made Sword just given to him earlier, the Red Prince sighs yet frowns "Up up up , Hold your horses Commoner…I will not get you off easily staining my uniform" referring to the grassy and bits of mud, Nova chuckles nervously as all of a sudden he and this upperclassman is at the main hall, with multiple students gathering including lady Scarecrow being worried of what happened before Tim sighs of being aware of Nova made unintentional trouble
As Nova found himself suddenly in the main hall with the Red Prince, he couldn't help but feel a bit overwhelmed. The atmosphere was tense, and he knew that he had unintentionally caused trouble. Lady Scarecrow's worried expression only added to his anxiety.
Tim, who had been informed of the situation, stepped forward and spoke, trying to defuse the tension. "I apologize for my friend's actions," he said respectfully. "Nova didn't mean to violate any rules or the Sacred Context. It was just a simple test of his newly acquired sword, not a training session."
The Red Prince, while still irritated, seemed to consider Tim's words. He glanced at Lady Scarecrow, who nodded in agreement with Tim's explanation. Finally, the Red Prince sighed and said, "Very well, if Lady Scarecrow herself confirms it wasn't a training session, I suppose I can let this slide. But be more careful, Commoner."
Nova nodded, relieved that the situation was resolved without further consequences. He was learning that the world of Coloria was full of rules and customs he needed to. navigate carefully.
Despite that, Nova felt this was an opportunity since what he hated most was being seen as an embarrassment "No, I know both on my mentor and friend's behalf I cause trouble for you by staining your uniform-" the Red Prince smirks, since he wanted this chance as he can sense Nova's strength as he knows some male students chatter he may be a wimp for unintentionally causing attention and trouble as Red Prince replied "yes sorry to bother your apprentice Lady Scarecrow and whoever you are the fellow friend of Apprentice Trainee Nova…Yet I still need to punish him and it's up to your underclassman (Kouhai)…Not only that, this is a duel by using our actual signature swords we had and by Blood!!!!" The entire audience gasped in shock as Lady Scarecrow asked if Nova was sure to still accept this duel base on punishment as Nova reassured her by saying this was his way to show the full potential of his own Neo-heim style mix with her Primal Style passed on, The lady also warned if he accepts it means the by BLOOD duel means the fight won't end until one of the fighters loses (Red Prince tap his foot and ask if they are done chattering) as Nova said he accepts the challenge and unsheathed his unnamed sword made from the chunks of the former Oblivion Boulder (then the Red Prince proudly pull out his rapier and its hilt is shaped like a Red rose)
The challenge had been accepted, and the hall was filled with anticipation. Nova squared off against the Red Prince, the tension palpable. Lady Scarecrow and Tim watched nervously from the sidelines.
The duel began, and the clash of their swords echoed through the hall. The Red Prince was clearly skilled, his rapier moving with precision and grace. Nova, on the other hand, used his newly acquired sword with a unique style, a fusion of his Neo-Heim style and Lady Scarecrow's Primal Style. His movements were unorthodox, surprising the onlookers.
As the battle raged on, Nova's determination became evident. He was not just defending himself; he was also showcasing his potential. He adapted to the Red Prince's attacks, blending defense with counterattacks, demonstrating the effectiveness of his mixed fighting style.
The duel continued for what felt like an eternity. Both combatants showed incredible resilience and skill. Nova's blade, made from the ancient obsidian material, held up surprisingly well against the Red Prince's rapier.
In the end, it was a close match. Nova had managed to hold his ground against the top-ranking senior. The Red Prince, despite his initial annoyance, couldn't help but acknowledge Nova's skill. He sheathed his rapier and nodded in approval.
"You're not half bad," the Red Prince admitted a rare compliment from him. "Your unique style caught me off guard. You've earned my respect, Commoner."
Nova, slightly out of breath but with a satisfied smile, replied, "Thank you, Red Prince. I appreciate the duel. It was an honor."
The audience, who had been holding their breath throughout the battle, let out a collective sigh of relief. The duel had not only settled the matter but also earned Nova recognition among his peers, proving that he was no pushover, even as a Commoner.
Lady Scarecrow is relieved that there's no bloodshed The Red Prince chuckles as he finds his match and whispers to Both Nova and Lady Scarecrow "May we duel in the future tournaments soon by next week" before he says aloud "The punishment is adjourned!!! Apprentice [Trainee/Junior] Nova is now free from such trouble" before he smiles as if despite his ego he gave the boy respect and Pat his shoulder "just be more aware of your surroundings okay?"
Nova nodded in agreement, feeling a sense of relief that the duel had ended without any major issues. He appreciated the Red Prince's acknowledgment and knew that their encounter would only fuel his determination to improve further.
"Thank you, Red Prince," Nova replied sincerely. "I'll be more mindful in the future, and I look forward to our future duels."
With that, the tension in the hall dissipated, and the students began to disperse. Lady Scarecrow, relieved that her apprentice had come out of the situation unscathed, gave Nova a stern but proud look.
"Remember, Nova, with great power comes great responsibility," she reminded him. "You have a unique talent, but you must use it wisely and with honor."
Nova nodded, understanding the weight of her words. With the duel behind them, he was more determined than ever to continue his training and make the most of his time at the academy. He paused though as he felt blanked out (did Lady Scarecrow unintentionally say a line as if she is some sort of spiderman mentor? Hopefully this won't trigger future issues with her)
Tim cried and sniffled as he hugged Nova once his friend sheathed his newly given sword "Ahhh NOVA you almost gave me a heart attack!!!! What would I do if my helpful friend who taught me combat did?!!" Nova patted his head and spoke, "Sorry for the scare, but at least I get to show my progress and use of this new sword.." Scarecrow comments in awe at how amazing that Sword is and asks Tim and Nova (especially Tim slowly calming down) where are the materials made from.
Nova gave Tim a reassuring pat on the back, understanding his friend's concern. Then, he turned his attention to Lady Scarecrow, who was now curious about the origin of the materials used for Nova's new sword.
"The materials for this sword," Nova began, "were taken from the remnants of the Oblivion [Obsidian] Boulder, the same one that Tim and I helped destroy back in our village. It was a rare and powerful material, and I thought it would be fitting to craft a sword from it."
Lady Scarecrow nodded in understanding. "A sword with such a unique origin must be special indeed. It seems like it has served you well in your duel. Keep honing your skills, Nova, and your Neo-Heim style will continue to improve."
Tim had now fully calmed down, and he smiled at Nova. "Yeah, that sword is amazing. I can't wait to see what you can do with it in the future."
With their duel and its unexpected conclusion behind them, Nova and Tim left the main hall, eager to enjoy the rest of their offday and continue their training at the academy.
As Lady Scarecrow added, "I shall give you a reward once graduation comes around next month after the tournament next week alright?" Nova nodded before he and Tim with their signature weapons (one of kind, Tim has the special dual shields of decay , while Nova has the unnamed Sword made from the Obsidian Boulder) as they walk nudged pass some specific random fellow underclassmen that scoffed of envy on the boys (as they mostly glare at Nova as Tim make a frown as Nova just told Tim to ignore them)
Ignoring the envious glances and scoffs from their fellow underclassmen, Nova and Tim continued on their way. They knew that not everyone would be supportive or understanding of their progress, but that wouldn't deter them from pursuing their goals and improving their skills.
As they walked, Nova spoke up, "Don't let them bother you, Tim. We've come a long way, and we're going to keep getting stronger."
Tim nodded, appreciating Nova's words of encouragement. "You're right, Nova. Let's focus on our training and continue to prove ourselves."
With renewed determination, they headed back to their dorm, ready to make the most of the rest of their offday and continue their journey toward becoming skilled combatants in the academy.
Still, Nova felt something scary yet relieved there was no bloodshed in that duel earlier when Tim was asleep (very deeply) as he tended to his secret garden of special magical flowers to relax [it's like that time when I slain that Chimera Demonbeast from Amerite's end border caverns about 6 months and 2 years ago]
Nova found solace in tending to his secret garden of magical flowers. As he carefully nurtured each delicate bloom, he couldn't help but reflect on the duel with the Red Prince earlier. It was a close call, and he was grateful that it had ended without bloodshed.
The magical flowers seemed to respond to Nova's touch, their vibrant colors and soothing fragrance providing a sense of peace and tranquility. It was moments like these that helped him unwind and recharge after the rigors of training and the challenges of academy life.
With each petal he touched, Nova felt a connection to the magical world around him, a world that was both wondrous and dangerous. He knew that there were many more trials and battles ahead, but for now, in his secret garden, he could find a moment of respite and calm.
Then he stood up for tonight and had a flashback with a smile of the revelation of the secret garden he is tending as a gift for Lady Scarecrow as a Graduation offering (based on both gratitude and academy history traditions) as he used to ask during one of his earlier training under her what kind of flower she likes
Nova's smile grew as he remembered the conversation he had with Lady Scarecrow during one of his earlier training sessions. He had asked her about her preferences, trying to get to know his mentor better. She had mentioned her fondness for a particular type of flower, and Nova had taken note of it.
At that moment, tending to the magical flowers in his secret garden, Nova realized that he had the perfect graduation gift in mind. The garden had been a labor of love, a place where he poured his care and magic into nurturing these unique blooms. It was a testament to his dedication and gratitude toward Lady Scarecrow, who had trained him so well.
As graduation day approached, Nova couldn't wait to present his mentor with the gift from his secret garden, a token of his appreciation and a symbol of their bond forged through training and shared experiences.
However the next night, he felt to check on the secret garden near the Academy grounds while Tim was busy asking for extra mentorship from Zeke the King Lion Nova gasped before calmly facing two fellow underclassmen (they are both bestialkin foxes) "Hey, you two…what are you both doing here?" One noble Bestialkin Vixen (term for fox subspecies) spoke and cackled with his companion, a female bully bestialkin fox "Hahah, oh poor innocent commoner….Quite the show you had yesterday right? Lately, we can sense and tell that we know those WEIRD flowers you say? They are called the Saruté Aurealis. (Name of the flower Nova is tendering)" Nova glares passive aggressively "Are you challenging a duel with me?" The female bestialkin fox spoke "Oh no no we don't WANT to attract attention to our attention, besides…we're just making sure you humble" as she does with sleigh hand placed some dried petals on Nova's chest pocket before the two students left as an agitated Nova left his composure to realize they were, plucked out halfway bloomed flowers
Nova watched the two Bestialkin foxes leave, a mixture of anger and frustration building inside him. They had dared to pluck some of the precious Saruté Aurealis flowers from his secret garden, and it was clear they were trying to humiliate him. But Nova knew better than to escalate the situation further, especially with the tension between commoners and nobles in the academy.
With a deep sigh, he carefully examined the flowers they had stolen. They were no longer the vibrant, blooming Saruté Aurealis that he had been tending to with such care. Instead, they were now wilted and damaged, a stark contrast to their former beauty.
Nova felt a sense of loss and disappointment, but he also realized that he needed to protect his secret garden better. He couldn't let these bullies ruin something he had worked so hard on. With renewed determination, he decided to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of his precious flowers, even if it meant spending more time guarding them.
As he gently plucked the damaged flowers from his pocket, Nova couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility not just to the Saruté Aurealis but also to himself and his mentor, Lady Scarecrow. He would continue to nurture the remaining flowers and present the best of them as his graduation gift, regardless of the challenges he faced along the way.
Until a mysterious echoing voice entered his mind and spoke "Norman Comet. De Valor, Alias Nova heed my call" he stopped to listen and asked calmly "Who's there?" And the voice replied "That is not important for no young one, I am an ally...I have been watching over you since you came to this world or land so you may say…You work so hard to tend to these rare exotic plants in foreign soil and right space it makes sense you want to give it Aero element to sustain it mix with Liquidus (Ai to water for short) , Next just heed and listen I am aware of your secret true mana type is Ecto(soul) so listen closely what you had is a special rare yet over these past 2 years your physical body and mana pool expanded in strength that It can do feats than precious Ecto mana gifted mortals could do" nova spoke softly "wait wait , just cut to the chase.." (is this the goddess? Vaguely I recall one of my black our dreams This maybe one of the colored gods?) the voice clears her voice and spoke "ahem , anyways just create a self image of the reality you want as I will assist…us your mana and life force to revitalize these plants completely.." he paid attention as his palms touch the soil , close his eyes as he felt a GUSH of wind and energy flowing (his body glows in strong mana) as it travelled into the soil as the now withered flowers BLOOMED so fast it puff beautifully with the aura of his soul (colorful) hence the name of these flowers Saruté Aurealis….once they bloom they release any sort of mana (yet this is the first one beyond books Nova research in his off days in the academy back then BLOOMS much mana) as he thanks the voice and smile and wash his hands using a chant of summoning orb shape liquidus element on his palms before the voice giggles currently and spoke "right now I shall be off May we meet soon , the hint is in the Central Holy Emerald Palace" Nova gasp as he felt the presence of the voice faded yet his mana sight is Unlocked he felt another different kind of mana sight compare how Tim describe it to him (people with dark or light mana times only seen the essence of waving motion of power , yet it's theorized soul type can see Auras , even sense their next elemental skill used or the COLORS of their inner core (Soul) and Mana to show their mana type…if a Soul mana type sees another it's plain white flickering different colors like a rainbow flashing different patterns of the spectrum.
Nova was left in awe and wonderment as the voice departed, leaving him with a newfound ability to manipulate mana more efficiently. His encounter with this mysterious entity unlocked a unique aspect of his power, allowing him to revitalize the Saruté Aurealis flowers in a breathtaking display of magical prowess.
As he marveled at the blooming flowers, he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards this ally who had been watching over him. The mention of the Central Holy Emerald Palace intrigued him, and he knew that this was a clue he needed to follow.
With his enhanced mana sight, Nova began to see the world in a different light. He observed the auras and colors of mana that surrounded living beings, each one unique and beautiful in its own way. It was as if he had gained a deeper connection to the essence of life itself.
Nova couldn't wait to share this newfound ability with Lady Scarecrow and Tim. He knew that it would not only help him in his magical studies but also bring him closer to unraveling the mysteries of Mythlandia and, perhaps, finding a way to save Dorothy.