THE SYSTEM I MADE
Chapter 22
"Shadows of doubt"
(Valorwood Academy of Arcane Arts;Alex Dorm room)
"They expected me to be guarding the fragment," Galeous explained, his voice tinged with bitterness. "So they took countermeasures. They used a dimensional barrier that is even above my rank. The barrier restricted teleportation, making it impossible to break. Not even my magic could interfere with it. Then they activated a demonic artifact that drains magical energy, including my life force. They wanted to kill me."
Alex leaned back, absorbing the gravity of Galeous's words. "A dimensional barrier above your rank… and a demonic artifact that drains life force and magical energy? That's some serious planning and resources. It's hard to believe a mere cultist could orchestrate something like that."
Galeous nodded. "The Espiritas cult is more dangerous than they appear. They have access to powerful artifacts and knowledge. Underestimating them would be a grave mistake."
"True, we can't face something we don't have information about. I still need to know about this rising cult and find the Twin Dragon Blades before it's too late. And I have to balance our objectives with the academy—that's a real pain if you ask me," Alex said, rubbing his temples.
Galeous nodded. "Indeed, it's a delicate balance. But remember, your education at the academy is also vital for your growth and preparation."
"Speaking of balancing academy life and my mission, I have a class to attend. We'll continue our talk when I get back," Alex said, standing up and stretching.
"Understood. Call me if you need me," Galeous replied before disappearing into thin air.
Alex took a deep breath, steeling himself for the day ahead. He grabbed his bag and headed out of his room, making his way to his next class.
As Alex walked across the courtyard, he heard muffled voices and the sound of a scuffle coming from a nearby alley. Curious and concerned, he hurried over to see what was happening.
"Leave him alone!" Alex called out, but the group of bullies paid no attention. They continued to shove and taunt a second-year student, who was on the ground, his uniform covered in dust.
"Hey! I said leave him alone!" Alex shouted, more forcefully this time. The bullies turned to look at him, sneering.
"Why don't you mind your own business?" one of them said, shoving the fallen student one last time before the group walked away, laughing.
Alex approached the student, who was trying to gather himself. "Are you okay?" Alex asked, offering a hand to help him up.
"Leave me alone! I hate everyone in this school!" the student yelled, batting Alex's hand away. Tears of frustration and anger glistened in his eyes as he scrambled to his feet and ran off.
Alex stood there, stunned and saddened by the encounter. He watched the student disappear around a corner, feeling a mixture of empathy and determination.
"I kinda feel pity for that guy," Alex thought to himself. "I heard that he was always the victim of being bullied."
(Academy cafeteria)
The aroma of freshly prepared meals wafted through the air as Alex sat in the academy cafeteria, his plate now empty but his attention fully absorbed by the book in front of him. Lost in the pages, he was startled when Galeous suddenly appeared beside him, dressed inconspicuously in the academy uniform.
"G-Galeous, how did you get here? I didn't even summon you," Alex exclaimed, surprised by the dragon's unexpected presence.
Galeous, his curiosity piqued by the bustling atmosphere of the cafeteria, offered a sheepish smile. "I apologize for intruding, Alex. I was simply curious about human customs and decided to explore."
Alex chuckled, waving off Galeous' apology. "No worries, just a bit surprised. Feel free to explore, but remember to keep a low profile."
"I understand," Galeous nodded, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "I'll blend in as best as I can."
As they chatted casually, exchanging anecdotes and observations about life at the academy, Galeous expressed his eagerness to wander around and see more of the premises.
"I think I'll go for a stroll and take in the sights," Galeous announced, pushing his chair back.
"Knock yourself out, but make sure you don't draw attention to yourself," Alex advised, concern lacing his tone.
"Don't worry, Alex. I've suppressed my magical energy to the point where even high-ranked mages won't suspect a thing," Galeous reassured him, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I'll blend right in."
.....
Professor Elise stood at the front of the classroom, her expression earnest as she addressed her students.
"As we enter this new semester, I've decided to implement study groups to foster collaboration and enhance your learning experience," she began, her voice carrying across the room.
Alex sat among his classmates, his attention focused on Professor Elise as she continued. To his surprise, he found himself grouped with Ethan, the student who had been bullied, and another lady from class 1E. He glanced at Ethan, who avoided his gaze, his demeanor guarded.
"As part of your study groups, you'll be assigned various activities and projects throughout the semester," Professor Elise explained. "These activities are designed to challenge you, promote teamwork, and enhance your understanding of potion-making and elixir studies."
Alex listened intently, his curiosity piqued by the prospect of collaboration with his classmates. He exchanged a glance with the lady from class 1E, offering a small nod of acknowledgment.
"Your first task will be to research and analyze the effects of different potion ingredients on magical potency," Professor Elise continued. "You'll then present your findings to the class and discuss your conclusions."
Ethan shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his eyes fixed on his notebook. Alex could sense his apprehension and decided to break the ice. "Hey, Ethan, looks like we're in the same group," he said, offering a friendly smile.
Ethan glanced up, looking on the books giving no reply to Alex.
The lady from class 1E joined the conversation, introducing herself as Emily and expressing her eagerness to work together. Alex felt a sense of camaraderie forming among the group as they discussed their approach to the task.
After their class with Professor Elise, Alex, Ethan, and Emily gathered in a secluded corner of the academy courtyard to discuss their upcoming project. The sun cast dappled shadows across the cobblestones as they settled onto a nearby bench, their notebooks and textbooks spread out before them.
As they delved into the details of their assignment, Alex noticed Ethan growing increasingly withdrawn, his shoulders hunched and his gaze fixed on the ground. Sensing his unease, Alex decided to address the issue directly.
"Ethan, is everything alright?" Alex asked, concern lacing his voice.
Ethan hesitated, his expression clouded with uncertainty. "I'm just not sure how much help I can offer," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm not as skilled as you guys, and I don't want to hold the group back."
Emily exchanged a sympathetic glance with Alex before speaking up. "Ethan, we're a team, and that means we support each other," she said gently. "We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and together, we can overcome any challenges that come our way."
"But I don't have any strengths," Ethan protested, his voice tinged with frustration. "I've always been the target of ridicule, the one who's never good enough."
"Ethan, you're part of this group for a reason," he said firmly.
Before Alex could offer reassurance, Ethan abruptly stood up, his expression clouded with self-doubt. "I...I need some air," he stammered, his voice trembling.
Watching Ethan retreat, Alex sighed, feeling a pang of sympathy for his classmate. "Don't worry, Emily. I'll try to talk to him more," Alex said, his voice tinged with concern.
Emily nodded, her brow furrowed with worry. "I hope he's okay. Let's give him some space for now," she suggested, gathering her belongings.
As they watched Ethan disappear around the corner, Alex couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over him. He knew Ethan's insecurities ran deep, and he was determined to find a way to help his troubled classmate.