The trio, energized from their recent class, made their way to the study hall, buzzing with ideas for their unique ritual circles. Approaching the front desk, they requested the necessary supplies: chalk, candles, and basic guides to ritual circles, providing a plethora of symbols and details on the foundation circles to choose from.
As they settled into a quiet corner, the discussion about their ritual circle designs began. Celia, with her affinity for combat and strategy, expressed her desire to create an enhancement ritual that would increase agility and reaction time, making it easier for her to dodge and counterattack in duels. "Imagine a ritual that could make your movements blur to the enemy, giving you a split-second advantage," she mused excitedly.
Coli, on the other hand, was inclined towards a curse ritual that would disorient his opponent. "Something that scrambles their senses, maybe? It would give me enough time to summon and bind fey creatures without interruption," he explained, his eyes alight with the possibilities of his concept.
Kendell listened intently, offering suggestions to refine their ideas. "Celia, perhaps you could incorporate symbols that resonate with speed and fluidity. And Coli, maybe adding an element of illusion to your curse would enhance its disorienting effect."
As they exchanged ideas, Kendell found himself deep in introspection about his connection with Azmoth. Reflecting on their last encounter, he pondered on creating a ritual circle that could tap into a fraction of Azmoth's powers without fully summoning the demon.
'What if there's a way to draw upon Azmoth's energy subtly? Like channeling just enough to influence my surroundings without the heavy toll,' he mused on the foundation circles they had learned so far.
"What do you guys think about creating some sort of ritual circle based on the devil contracting circle that would allow me to borrow some of a devil's powers without having to summon the devil itself?"
Unfortunately, explaining how he has the circle that utilized Azmoth's abilities, even to his allies, would definitely make them suspicious. They were only a few weeks into classes after all, and having something that advanced when he cannot even fully use the sealing ritual would not make sense.
The idea sparked a flurry of discussion. "That sounds risky but incredibly powerful," Celia said, impressed. "You'd have to be careful with the balance, though. Too little and it's ineffective, too much and you might lose control and deal with side effects from the devil," she added thoughtfully.
"I agree," Coli chimed in. "Maybe focus on a specific aspect of their abilities that you can manage safely. Like a small aspect of their specialty magic or borrowing their natural resistances to make yourself tougher."
Kendell nodded, the gears in his mind turning. 'I wonder if I could incorporate elements of subterfuge and misdirection into the circle, something that mirrors Azmoth's cunning nature.' he mused, 'maybe something appealing to his cunning nature would make him more inclined to give me access to his abilities...'
As the hours passed, their rough sketches began taking form, each circle reflecting their individual strengths and aspirations.
Celia's circle was sleek and streamlined, denoting speed and precision. After more discussion with the others, she tried to modify it to use as few lines and symbols as possible so she could activate its effect quicker and get an early advantage over her opponent.
Coli on the other hand had an intricate pattern that seemed to twist and turn, embodying the essence of confusion and disorientation. He decided against making his circle easier to form, and instead decided the true power would come from when he could tattoo it onto himself and use it instantly at the start of combat. That wouldn't happen till next year, so he was going to work on fleshing out the design and maybe making it more powerful over the next year as they learned more.
Kendell's design was a blend of sharp angles and smooth curves, with a subtle nod to the essence of Azmoth by placing the main symbol that called him in the center, showcasing his respect for the great demon. He carefully considered each symbol, ensuring the circle was potent yet manageable.
Their conversations, filled with technical discussions and bursts of creativity, echoed in the quiet hall. The trio's bond strengthened with each suggestion and critique, their collective enthusiasm fueling their ambition to master the art of ritual magic.
As they packed up their supplies, they each felt a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for what their creations could bring. This marked the true start of their journey as ritualists as these circles would truly make them unique. The walk to the cafeteria was filled with plans for the next meeting, each eager to further refine and test their newly designed ritual circles.
In the bustling cafeteria of Tilanaz Academy, Kendell, Celia, and Coli huddled over their lunch, their voices low with intrigue.
"Have you guys heard anything about this secret event the school's planning?" Coli asked, glancing around to make sure no faculty were in earshot.
Celia leaned in, her eyes wide with curiosity. "I've heard whispers, but nothing concrete. It's like they're trying to build suspense or something."
Kendell shrugged. "Whatever it is, I bet it's going to be big. The teachers have been more secretive than usual about it, even Professor Falis wouldn't say anything when people asked him."
They exchanged theories, from elaborate magical tournaments to surprise visits from renowned ritualists, their imaginations running wild with possibilities.
Halfway through their meal, a faculty member entered the cafeteria, drawing immediate attention.
Suddenly, the chatter around them quieted down as a faculty member stepped into the center of the cafeteria. "Attention, students! I have an important announcement regarding an upcoming school event!"
The trio perked up, their earlier conversation about to be validated. The entire hall buzzed with excitement as students eagerly awaited further details.
With a commanding voice, the announcement was made: "We are excited to announce the competition between professors' pupils, showcasing the talents of each professor's chosen students in a series of challenges!"
Whispers and gasps rippled through the students. Kendell felt a jolt of anticipation, 'Shit this is the competition the Vice-Headmaster is putting me in huh.'
"The event will showcase the talents of each professor's chosen pupils in a series of differing events from races to duels," the faculty member declared, "they will be demonstrating their skills and representing their mentors' teachings, as well as providing a first hand look at what some of the best amongst you are capable of, the goal is to inspire all of you to pursue a stronger path in ritualism."
The announcer paused waiting for the excited voices to die down.
"If you are a first year and have not heard much about this competition and think you have what it takes to participate, find a professor to mentor you and prove your skills! However, each professor can only take a maximum of two pupils this year so be quick and have something to show off."
The first-year students started to panic and discussed who they could possibly learn the most from, or who would even take them as pupils this early in their ritualism journey.
"However, this is not just for first-year pupils, the competition features the pupils from each year so you can witness and learn what each path has to offer."
As the announcement concluded, a list of current participants was posted on a pillar in the center of the cafeteria as well as the date of the competition, which was not for a few months. Kendell's name was prominently displayed as the Vice Headmaster's only pupil- not just for his year, but amongst all the years. This caused a stir among his peers.
"Looks like you're in the spotlight, Kendell," Coli remarked with a hint of awe in his voice.
Kendell could feel eyes on him. "No pressure, right?" Kendell, feeling a mix of pride and nervousness, nodded. "Guess there's no backing out now. I need to start preparing seriously."
"How did you even get chosen? And why didn't you tell us!" yelled Celia with an almost hurt expression.
Their conversation was interrupted before he could answer when another student approached their table. Tall and confident, the student fixed Kendell with a determined gaze.
"So, you're the Vice Headmaster's pupil. I'm Leon, representing Professor Miral in the competition. Consider me your rival, I had wanted to learn under the Vice-Headmaster but she rejected me. After I beat you I will prove my worth."
Kendell, surprised by the sudden declaration, responded, "Rival, huh? I look forward to the challenge."
Leon's competitive spirit seemed to spark a sense of hostility rather than the camaraderie of two students in a friendly competition. "May the best student win. See you in the arena," he said, offering a sneer before departing.
Kendell watched the man walk away, but Celia and Coli both had their jaws on the floor as they turned to look at Kendell.
"Ken, do you know who that is? That's Leon Tilanaz, as in our Tilanaz! He's the son of the current Headmaster, and the most powerful ritualist family in the country!"