The Magux Academy courtyard was engulfed in chaos. Flames licked the air, and the lingering scent of smoke and burnt wood filled the once-peaceful grounds. Amidst the wreckage, two figures stood poised for battle: Aro Lupe, the esteemed master of combat magic, and Ash Minse, a once-beloved martial arts instructor who had now succumbed to the temptations of dark magic.
Aro's stern face was set in a determined grimace as he stared down his former colleague. "You monster! You're going to pay for what you've done, Ash!" His voice reverberated with righteous fury, laced with the crackling energy of the spell he was preparing.
Ash, once known for his friendly demeanor and encouraging words, now bore an eerie, twisted grin. His eyes glowed with malevolence as tendrils of dark energy spiraled around his body. "Is that so?" he cackled, his voice dripping with mockery. He raised his hand, allowing dark magic to coalesce into an ominous, pulsating orb. "Let's see if you can back up those words, Aro."
Aro didn't waste another second. He thrust his hand forward, summoning a magic circle that crackled with intense heat. "Fire Dragon!" he roared, channeling his mana into a powerful spell. The air shimmered with energy as flames erupted from the circle, spiraling upward and taking the form of a massive dragon. The fiery beast roared, its maw wide open as it surged toward Ash, ready to incinerate everything in its path.
But Ash remained unfazed, his grin widening. "Pathetic," he sneered. With a flick of his wrist, he conjured a dark, swirling orb in his hand. "Shadow Orb!" The orb expanded, growing darker and more malevolent with each passing second, until it was a writhing mass of pure darkness. Ash hurled it forward with a snarl, sending it colliding directly with the blazing dragon.
The courtyard was bathed in blinding light as the two spells clashed. Fire and shadow met in a violent explosion, sending shockwaves rippling through the academy grounds. The fire dragon roared in defiance as it tried to push through, its flames flickering and battling against the consuming darkness of the shadow orb. But Ash's dark magic was relentless. The shadows twisted and coiled like serpents, gradually smothering the dragon's flames until, with a final, explosive burst, the fire was snuffed out.
Aro gritted his teeth, sweat beading on his forehead. "How is your dark magic this strong? What have you done, Ash?"
Ash's laughter echoed through the courtyard, cold and mocking. "You really don't get it, do you, Aro? I'm not the man you used to know. I've embraced the true power—one bestowed upon me by the God himself!"
Aro's eyes blazed with fury. "You're a disgrace! I'll never forgive you for this!"
Ash's smirk grew wider, his eyes glowing with a twisted satisfaction. "Forgiveness? Who needs it when you have divine power coursing through your veins? I'm beyond forgiveness now, Aro. I am chosen!"
Without hesitation, Aro unleashed another barrage of spells—blades of fire, pillars of earth, and spears of water. He moved with precision and speed, his years of experience evident in every attack. But Ash dodged and deflected them with ease, his movements smooth and taunting. Each time Aro attacked, Ash countered with dark tendrils, shadowy barriers, and bursts of sinister energy.
"You're slowing down, my friend!" Ash jeered, his voice dripping with condescension.
Aro's breath was labored, but his resolve never wavered. "I won't let you win," he muttered, clenching his fists. "For the students… for everyone you've hurt… I'll put an end to your madness!"
But as Aro prepared to gather his remaining strength, Ash's expression shifted. The mocking grin twisted into something more malevolent, more terrifying. "You still don't get it, do you, Aro? I told you this isn't a duel you can win. I've already transcended the limits of what you can comprehend." He raised both hands, summoning an even larger mass of dark energy that crackled with sinister power.
Aro's eyes widened in realization. "No… that's… forbidden magic!"
Ash's voice was a dark whisper, filled with malice. "It's over."
With a flick of his wrist, the orb exploded outward, sending countless dark tendrils shooting toward Aro. The veteran mage crossed his arms, casting a desperate barrier to defend himself. But the shadows struck with overwhelming force, shattering the barrier like glass. Aro was thrown back, crashing into the ground with a heavy thud, his body battered and bruised.
Ash approached, his footsteps echoing ominously. "This world is changing, Aro. And those who cling to the normal ways, like you, will be crushed."
Aro struggled to rise, his vision blurring, but he refused to give up. "I… I won't let you…"
But before he could finish, Ash's shadowy tendrils coiled around him, lifting him off the ground. "This is the end, old friend." Ash hissed, raising a hand to deliver the final blow.
Suddenly, a burst of magic slammed into Ash's back—a fierce combination of fire, wind, and water. The unexpected attack sent him flying, crashing hard against the courtyard wall. Ash gritted his teeth, clearly in pain, as he struggled back to his feet. His eyes, filled with fury, scanned for his assailants.
He was shocked to see three students standing boldly before him. Lory Lawen, her dark hair framing a fierce gaze, stood confidently with an air of noble pride. Next to her was Bax Wood, fiery and hot-headed with his wild red hair and intense stare. Finally, Roki Bilzton, calm and calculating behind his dark blue hair and ever-present sunglasses, surveyed the situation like a strategist in battle. All three hailed from noble families, known for their exceptional talents.
Ash sneered through the pain as his dark magic swiftly healed his injuries. "I didn't expect such cute students to put up a fight." he said mockingly, although his eyes showed a hint of wariness now.
Aro, still recovering from Ash's earlier assault, gasped as he saw the trio. "You kids!! It's too dangerous! Get out of here!" he warned, desperation in his voice.
But before he could argue further, Lucy Greay, another of his students, appeared by his side, offering him support. With her blonde hair and determined expression, she seemed unfazed by the danger before her. "Teacher, it's fine. We're here now." Lucy said with a reassuring smile, though her eyes held a steely resolve.
Aro shook his head, frustrated. "No, it's too dangerous! That bastard is a monster—you don't understand—" Before he could finish, another voice cut him off.
"We're not backing down!" shouted Rika, a commoner knight student who stepped forward with fierce determination. Despite the usual power imbalance between mages and knights, Rika stood her ground with unshakable resolve. Her short-cropped red hair and battle-ready stance screamed that she was ready to face any challenge head-on.
Aro was stunned. Knights were usually seen as mere meatshields for mages, but here was Rika—a knight student—boldly stepping up to fight against a monster like Ash. "Who are you?" Aro asked, shocked by her fearlessness.
Brando, another knight student, stepped forward with a chuckle, despite his usually sleepy eyes now filled with intense focus. "She's Rika, the hot-headed knight who doesn't know how to back down." Brando said with a grin. But even he was eyeing Ash warily, prepared for the worst.
Ash took in the defiance of the students, his expression growing more twisted with delight. "What a delightful moment!" He threw his head back, laughing maniacally, his voice echoing through the courtyard. He then looked down at the gathered students, his eyes brimming with malice. "I hope you all are prepared, because this is where the fun begins!"
The students braced themselves, determination burning in their eyes despite the fear gnawing at their hearts. Ash's dark magic flared up around him, the courtyard darkening under his destruction power. The battle was far from over—but the students weren't backing down. They were ready to fight for their survival, no matter the odds.
...
Meanwhile in the depths of Chalu's mind, training under the watchful eye of Roe, the legendary hero. The scene was serene yet intense—rolling green hills stretched out beneath a sunlit sky, and the sound of distant waterfalls filled the air. The aura surrounding Chalu crackled with power as he gripped his sword tightly, focusing all his energy into it.
"Master, is this good?" Chalu asked, his chimpanzee features tensed in concentration. The aura around his sword pulsed three times stronger, glowing a bright blue as he infused more of his energy into it.
Roe, tall and imposing with brown hair and calm, wise eyes, observed his student with a slight nod of approval. "It's a good start, Chalu. But you need more than just brute force. You need to visualize what you truly desire if you want that aura to reach its peak potential."
Chalu tilted his head in confusion. "Visualize?"
Roe stepped closer, placing a hand on Chalu's shoulder, his voice deep and full of experience. "Yes, visualize. It's not just about strength—it's about intent. For example, imagine the faces of the friends you wish to protect. Or picture the rage you'd feel if someone threatened your loved ones. Your aura isn't just power; it's the manifestation of your heart's deepest desires."
Chalu's eyes widened as he listened carefully, trying to grasp the concept. Roe's expression grew serious as he looked into Chalu's eyes, almost seeing the potential buried within. "Again... Visualization isn't just a mental exercise. It allows your aura to expand beyond its usual limits. When you focus on what truly matters to you—whether it's love, anger, or determination—your aura reacts and grows stronger. It becomes an unstoppable force that aligns with your will."
Closing his eyes, Chalu tried to focus, imagining his comrades—his friends who fought by his side, and the people he swore to protect. The image of them flashed in his mind, their faces filled with trust, reliance, and hope. Then, an image of them in danger crossed his thoughts—a burning rage surged within him.
As he did so, the aura around his sword flared even brighter, taking on a sharper, more refined edge. It grew wild and fierce, yet stable—driven by Chalu's desire to protect those he cared about.
Roe smiled, watching the change. "There it is. You're beginning to grasp it now. Remember, the power of your aura isn't just in its raw energy. It's in your spirit—your reason for fighting. Let that drive you, and your strength will know no bounds."
In that moment, Chalu understood. It wasn't just about swinging his sword harder or channeling more energy; it was about focusing his emotions and desires into a tangible force. The visualization was the key to making his aura not just stronger, but purposeful.
He opened his eyes, determination burning bright in them. "I understand now, Master. I'll make sure my aura always carries my purpose."
Roe nodded, satisfied. "Good. Now, let's continue. Show me what you can do when your heart's truly in it."
Chalu gripped his sword, ready to push his limits further, knowing that every swing, every strike, would be powered by more than just strength—it would be fueled by his unwavering will.
....
In the dimly lit tent, the group of teenage Beastfolk gathered, their faces etched with concern. Mandu, the elephant Beastfolk with his towering frame and thoughtful demeanor, shifted his gaze towards Raro, the cat Beastfolk who had just shared the unsettling news.
"So you're saying Chalu is unconscious?" Mandu asked, his deep voice tinged with worry.
Raro, with his slender frame and sharp feline eyes, nodded. "Yes, that's exactly the case. He collapsed out of nowhere, and we've been unable to wake him since."
Lomi, the quick-witted cheetah Beastfolk, leaned forward, her brow furrowed in disbelief. "That's absurd. Did you notice anything strange or suspicious before it happened? Was there something behind this phenomenon?"
Raro shook his head, frustration evident in his voice. "We don't know what caused it. It happened too suddenly. One moment he was fine, and the next, he just collapsed." His eyes shifted towards Gori and Lyro, seeking any further insights.
Gori, the muscular gorilla Beastfolk known for his strength but also his calm, serious nature, took a deep breath. "Is there any way for Chalu to wake up?" he asked, turning to Mandu with a determined look. Gori, despite his size, was always the one most focused on solutions.
Mandu sighed, rubbing his tusks in thought. "I'm not sure, but there might be a way. Sir Laksan, [goat Beastfolk healer], has knowledge of many remedies. He might know how to bring Chalu back."
As the tension hung in the air, Lyro, the eldoan disguised as a cat Beastfolk, shifted uncomfortably. His feline ears twitched slightly as he hesitated, knowing his presence was still met with skepticism by some of the group. Even though Raro vouched for him, Mandu's cautious gaze often lingered on him.
Lyro finally gathered the courage to speak up, his voice soft and nervous. "Um…"
Mandu's attention snapped towards Lyro, his eyes narrowing slightly. "What is it?" Mandu asked, his tone still cautious. Even after working together for some time, Mandu couldn't fully shake his wariness towards Lyro. Eldoans were known for their trickery, and trust was something that took time to earn.
Lyro swallowed hard, trying to maintain a friendly smile. "It's nothing serious, really… I just wanted to say… your ears, they're really cool." he said with an awkward chuckle, hoping to lighten the mood.
The tension in the room eased slightly as Raro let out a small laugh. Even Gori's serious expression softened a bit. Lomi shaking her head at Lyro's attempt at humor.
Mandu, still a bit on edge, gave a faint smile. "Thanks… I guess." Though the situation was dire, Lyro's comment managed to bring a brief moment of levity to the group.
But the concern quickly returned as they remembered Chalu's condition. Mandu straightened up. "Let's not waste any more time. We need to find Sir Laksan and get his help. Chalu's counting on us."
The group nodded in unison, their resolve hardening. As they prepared to leave the tent and seek out the goat healer, a sense of unity bound them together. No matter their backgrounds or the suspicions some still harbored, they all shared one goal: saving their friend, Chalu.
To be continue