「 You've Unlock the Main Mission... 」
Main Mission : Enter the First Novel and Extract The First Revelation.
Time Limit : 7 days.
Failure to accomplish : DEATH
Ino studied the old hologram in front of him and resigned himself in acceptance. The tension and frustration within him were mounting as Orlando, noticing his distress, patted his shoulder with a concerned look.
"Are you okay?" Orlando asked. He wondered if Orlando could see the notification system, but he couldn't. An awkward silence followed before Orlando spoke again.
"Let me show you around Vista Myr." Orlando started walking, and Ino followed.
"All these books are the novels you've read," Orlando said, pausing to glance back at Ino. "Naturally, they include my books as well. The purpose of this place is to organize them, or more accurately, to prepare you for your journey of gathering those revelations." Ino listened without a change in expression as Orlando continued toward the center of Vista Myr.
"At the center, you'll find all the books you've completed, including my last book, which is a fragment of my memory. Think of it as a trial for your upcoming journey..." Ino nodded after.
"Every journey you undertake will bring you back here once you've finished," Orlando said, smiling. "My sole purpose is to guide and protect Vista Myr."
"Vista Myr was created for one reason: you, the chosen one. This space exists solely for you, Ino Siente." With that, he sat down at his desk in the center of Vista Myr.
"What are you planning to do next?" Orlando asked. "I... I'm not sure," Ino responded.
"Hmm..." A long silence ensued. Orlando winked at him and pointed, resting his hand on his chin.
"Since you likely got the system's main mission, I'll give you a sub-mission," he said with a smile.
"You can do that?" Ino asked simply.
"Of course! I'm your keeper! It's me, Orlando De Von Deus! HA HA HA!" His laughter echoed.
「 Ding! 」
New Sub-mission: Learn at least five new skills from books in Vista Myr.
After Ino received the Sub-mission he quickly made a list of skill books he were able to find. From there he start to sort everything from difficulty and rarity, he figured out and have chosen the most efficient and convenient skill he would be able to use during his long term mission.
The first Ino chose was "Mastering One's Blade." Utilizing his Bookworm skill and sharp intellect, he thoroughly absorbed and dissected all its contents. It was all about how one can master a sharp sword, just by repeating it's fundamentals it would make Ino's foundation stronger. Moving on, Ino delved into a volume brimming with recipes and theories on transmutation and potion-making. "Ah, Alchemy," he murmured, engrossed in his diligent study of the material he choose this book since the efficiency of potion brewing would probably help him a lot.
Next, "The Shadow's Path" caught his attention, focusing on stealth techniques. It taught Ino to move noiselessly, blend into his environment, and manipulate shadows and natural cover to evade detection. After all stealth may be one of basics skills out there but he would definitely need it especially the danger might be higher than he thought. Turning to another skill book, Ino found ancient spells for enchanting objects with magical properties.
And lastly, "Mastery of the Elements" unveiled the fundamental principles of controlling natural forces. Beyond the traditional four elements-water, fire, wind, and earth it even delved deeper into Ether, Thunder, Divinity, Light, Darkness, and beyond.
「 DING! 」
You've successfully learned 5 skills.
「 You've learned Swordsmanship! 」
「 You've learned Alchemy! 」
「 You've learned Stealth! 」
「 You've learned Enchanting! 」
「 You've learned Magic! 」
"Whoa... that was quick," Orlando exclaimed, appearing behind Ino. "You're truly a genius." Orlando paused, deep in thought. "I know this might sound odd, but I'm curious... Can I ask you about something?"
"Sure," Ino replied without hesitation.
"Can I know your INT stats?" Orlando asked, clearly intrigued.
"100," Ino responded simply, noticing Orlando's eyes widen slightly.
"Really? No way," Orlando exclaimed. "The base INT stat usually starts around 14... and the highest geniuses I've encountered had 88."
Ino nodded, acknowledging Orlando's surprise at his exceptional intelligence.
"Look at this kid..." Orlando chuckled, amused by Ino's nonchalant expression, instantly grasping why he reacted that way.
「DING! 」
「 Congratulations! Your world demise timer will now be reset and paused while you're away. Complete Main Missions to unlock revelations that will assist you on your journey! 」
「 The system wishes you luck on your mission! 」
「 Would you like a recap of the synopsis for the first novel you'll be entering? 」
As soon as Ino accepted, the hologram reappeared, displaying a lot of information about the first novel Ino would be entering.
「 In a modern world touched by an unknown supernatural phenomenon, only a fortunate few are chosen to experience 'Celestial Freedom.' This rare selection bestows special abilities upon those who pass the mysterious test, making them either revered or despised. Out of the seven billion people on Earth, only one hundred thousand have acquired these unique powers.
Our protagonist, Ignis, attends Arc Freedom Academy, an institution dedicated to managing and enhancing these supernatural abilities. At the heart of Arc Freedom lies a massive crystal device capable of predicting the future. This crystal, alongside the chosen saint of their world, has foreseen an impending apocalypse.
Meanwhile, a rogue group known as the "Gazers" plots to steal the crystal. They believe that if the crystal is destroyed, all abilities will vanish, reshaping the balance of power in their world. 」
「 The system asks if you have any questions. 」
"So, what's my objective?" Ino pondered as he stared at the system.
「 Your objective is to retrieve Ignacius, the 1st Revelation! Once you confirm you're ready, you'll be transmitted quickly into the novel! 」
"Hmm, looks like my part is done. Are you going in?" Orlando asked, watching Ino closely, sensing what was happening.
"Yeah, I guess," Ino replied. Orlando smiled and patted his shoulder.
"Well... good luck, Mr. Apostle. I hope you make it back," Orlando said, as Ino's lips curled into a slight smile.
"Thank you, Orlando. I will..." As Ino spoke, his body gradually faded away.
"See you again," Orlando said in farewell.
「Transporting...」
「You'll arrive at your destination in 3 seconds. Please prepare for the impact.」
「3...」
「2...」
「1...」
The after effects that it always left on my body everytime it teleports me is very irritating....
I opened my eyes slowly figuring out my surroundings, glancing from every corner... It seems I'm in a office...
I stared at my desk and I found a paper there with my face..
「 DING! 」
「 You've arrived! 」
Current Location : Office
Status : ( Undercover Professor at Arc Freedom )
One of the Gazers Official High Rank.
Mission : Retrieve Ignacius
Time Limit : 7 days.
Failure to accomplish : DEATH
It seems the paper in front of me is my fraudulent identity. Tomorrow would be my first day in Arc Freedom. I should prepare and rest for today.
"Ah, I forgot to learn detection skills.. dumb ass."
I sighed at my frustration; it seemed like I lacked common sense.
I rose up from my seat and walked towards the huge door of my own study. Outside, I saw a few servants and some members of the gazers. I walked down the corridor to explore the palace. I finally remembered the book content. The main character of this story... Ignacius Niall; he's a council president. And if I remember it right, the starting point of the story is his last year at the academy. There should be a tournament that will follow, and after that, new students will eventually be admitted. Gazers didn't succeed in stealing the crystal. Just how should I retrieve Ignacius? The system always gives vague and unclear instructions.
"Damn it."
The reflection from the window made me stop my walk in the hallway. I stared at it and examined it carefully. It seems like my hairstyle did change a bit after coming here... and my outfit as well. Is the novel purposely changing my style and appearance?
「 The system cheers you that you looked cool in your disguised! >3
I leaned a bit more and looked closely, I found my hair was on the left side this time, and I'm currently wearing a black stripped polo with black gloves.
「 The system was proud for transforming you in that outfit and hairstyle! 」
My face couldn't even define how I feel now. "What a weirdo," I mumbled as I brushed off the system and continued my walk.
Finally arriving at my chambers, I tossed my body onto the bed, exhausted. It seems like all the fatigue is finally catching up to me. I stared at the ceiling and concluded that I'm bound to eventually follow the system's path, whether I like it or not.
"Rest. I need rest." I closed my eyes, hoping I would wake up early tomorrow. After all, I've come to accept that there will be no one to wake me up.
"I'll take you back.."
.
.
.
.
Knock knock..
I could hear a faint knock in the door, I sat at the edge of my bed and forcibly opened my eyes. Bad habits die hard.
"Come in," I said. The maid entered, simply bowing her head as she flawlessly executed her duties. She served my breakfast and offered tea. Just as I finished eating, my phone rang with a call from an unknown number, which I hesitated but still answered.
"Congratulations, Professor Ino. We have assigned you a classroom. Given your excellent teaching background, you'll be teaching 4th Year Class A. Do you have any objections?"
Although the voice on the call was friendly, I knew my mission was starting with a high level of difficulty.
"I understand. I'm looking forward to teaching at Arc Freedom," I replied simply. The person on the other end seemed pleased with my response.
"I also look forward to your performance. The ceremony will be starting soon, and I expect you to be on time. As a newly admitted professor, you won't be late, right?"
This forwardness shows the professionalism of the people at Arc Freedom.
"Yes, I understand," I replied briefly before the call ended. I need to get ready soon or I'll be late. I signaled the maid to step outside as I prepared myself. After a few moments, I left in the room followed by my butler.
"Sir Ino, we can use the teleportation portal to go to the academy, It's ready," Geno said, bowing politely. Geno, a professional butler assigned to me, could also use assassin skills, he was a big help, although I don't trust him that much.
We stepped inside, and in the blink of an eye, we were teleported. It didn't feel the same as being teleported by the system. As soon as we exited the portal, we saw other professors arriving at the front gate of the school.
Noticing the activity, it seemed the ceremony was about to start. "I'll get going now, Sir Ino. You know how to call me, right? Have a safe trip." As soon as Geno spoke, he vanished into thin air. I then entered the academy, finding my seat in the crowded area near the side of the huge stage.
"Welcome everyone." It's the same voice I heard from the call earlier, I quickly glanced at the center of the stage.
"Before we proceed, I should introduce myself. I'm the Principal of this school, Venetian Deusch Serenity."
The students clapped their hands as they look Venetian with admiration.
" Today is a special day, as Arc Freedom celebrates the grand ceremony for newcomers and students advancing from previous years.
As you know, before entering the academy, we provided the rules and a brief overview. The rest is for you all to find out.
Our only goal is to produce and support special individuals like you. Let me introduce the current president of the student council, Ignacius Niall. Please come up on stage."
The principal stepped off the stage. Noticing my presence, he smiled at me as he took a seat opposite from me.
As expected, a male student with red hair and amethyst eyes walked towards the center stage.
He had the exactly same description from the novel I've read.
"Aa... Aaahh, mic check," he said, looking irritated just standing there, let alone speaking.
"I'm Ignacius Niall, Ignis for short. I've been the student council president for three years straight, now starting my fourth. I'll be straightforward." He gripped both sides of the table, his irritation was very noticeable. I remembered that Ignacius' personality was quite enthusiastic and hot-tempered.
"I don't care about your background. If you can't follow the school rules, you might as well leave now. The council members are chosen solely by their strengths. If you're strong enough, you can sign up for a position. Feel free to challenge me anytime-I won't decline." He said those words while pointing his finger on the students in front of him.
" I hate discrimination. If you think about bullying others just because they're weaker than you, forget it.
In this school, there are three main classifications of positions. First, the student council takes priority. Second, the Disciplinary Committee. Lastly, the Saint candidates. The rest are considered subcategories."
He paused to yawn. It was a bit akward, the other students felt like he was forced to be there.
"That's all. And finally, keep moving forward, dimwits."
A lot of chatter could be heard from the newly admitted students. Some were questioning his speech, and some thinks that he's not good to lead.
"Is he really the student council president?" a female student muttered with a worried face. His speech had mixed impressions, but most found it cool. I guess it was because all his words were backed up by his actual power and confidence.
I guess it's my turn now... I deeply sigh, to be honest I also hate this kind of events, even if I always done it.
I rose from my seat and walked to the stage center, grabbing the students' attention. The email from the principal instructed me to encourage and welcome the new students. Since my professor background is the best among all the professors here, I suppose he chose me by default, considering I qualified.
"I'm Ino Siente, the new professor here. First, Congratulations to those who met the academy's standards." I don't want to sound arrogant so I'll make this quick.
" I won't waste time with pleasantries... I only have one thing to remind every student here."
"If you can't strive hard, you don't have what it takes to attend here, I suppose that every student that is present here today is qualified right?
You can slack off if you want, but remember, we can also slack off and not give any grades to those who deserves it.
After all we only teach students who shows the potential, talent and effort. Not with backed up words with no actual action."
Despite the simplicity of my speech, I could hear the students clapping. I sat back down quickly and noticed my colleagues smiling in response. The principal gave me a thumbs up, he seems pleased with my speech. Once again the principal came up at the stage to finish the ceremony.
"Do you know the meaning of our Academies name? No? Arc freedom," A silent crowd followed as he continued the speech.
"The name itself symbolizes how it shields the freedom we sought and gained from our abilities. And with open arms, we're willing to foster talented people just like everyone here. I do hope everyone gets my point.
I once again welcome all the students who've gotten here. Welcome to the Arc Freedom Academy." After that the Venetian gathered mana in his hands and firing his magic in the air, it looked truly.. beautiful.
The loud cheers and claps from the students were the only sounds I could hear at that moment. The ceremony ended after his speech, everyone is going to their designated class, so I should go as well.
I arrived a bit late to Class 4-A, having spent extra time in my office gathering my lecture materials. As I approached the entrance of the large room, I slowly pushed open the front door. Inside, around 70 students were waiting, their eyes filled with anticipation and curiosity.
Making my way to the center of the room, I placed some of the lecture papers on the desk. Disguised as I was, I planned to make this class unexpectedly entertaining.
"Since everyone already knows who I am, we'll skip the formalities. Today's lesson is on Multiple Chantless Spells. If anyone feels this is beyond their capability, feel free to leave now." The room was wrapped in an icy silence, yet not a single student moved.
A voice from the back broke the quiet. "Isn't chantless spells difficult to perform? Casting multiple spells without chants depletes mana quickly," a female student remarked.
I looked at her calmly and asked, "Have you tried it?"
She nodded hesitantly.
"Then show us now." The student seemed taken aback by my request.
"Sensei, isn't that dangerous in a room full of students?" a male student interjected from the right side of the room. Though I'm not invincible, I remained composed.
"Just aim a single-target spell at me," I instructed. The female student, visibly annoyed, pointed her fingers at me. Ice and water flowed from her fingertips, merging into a powerful spell that hurtled towards me.
"But it wasn't enough..."
The spell dissipated, leaving a cloud of smoke, but i remained still.
"Sensei is unscathed," Ignacius noted, sounding bored. The female student, embarrassed, sat back down under Ignacius' indifferent gaze.
"It took you at least four seconds to cast that spell," I observed. She remained silent, so I decided to lift the spirits in the room.
"I'll teach you how to reduce the cooldown first. Can anyone here demonstrate a chantless spell with greater speed?"
"Charlotte," Ignacius called out. A blue-haired girl stood up confidently. "I can."
"Can you sh—" I started, but before I could finish, she had already fired her magic at me. It was the same spell as the previous student's, but three times stronger.
"Interesting... 1.8 seconds," I noted as she calmly returned to her seat. "Is Charlotte the fastest here?" The room remained silent until Ignis stood up.
"I am."
"I know."
I looked at Ignis and smiled. In the next moment, the classroom was almost engulfed in flames. If I hadn't activated the amulet I had crafted from Vista Myr, things could have been far worse.
"Seems like sensei is really strong," Ignacius said with an arrogant smirk, as if mocking me.
"Is he really the Ignacius Niall I've known?"