As Mortis walked through the academy, his mind buzzed with a flurry of calculations and strategies. The academy's upcoming tournament was an opportunity he couldn't afford to squander. The promise of an ancient potion capable of fully stabilizing his foundation and aiding in his breakthrough to Rank 1 Magus was a tantalizing reward, one that could significantly accelerate his quest for immortality and power.
The corridors of the academy were alive with excitement. Students hurried here and there, discussing their plans and speculating on the tournament's challenges and their potential opponents from other academies. Mortis, however, remained detached from the clamor, his focus unwavering. He knew that beneath the surface of this excitement lay a myriad of opportunities for him to exploit, but also a myriad of dangers.
After some contemplation, Mortis decided that his next step would involve thorough research about other academies in tournament. With that in mind, he turned his steps toward the academy's gigantic library. The library was a labyrinthine structure, a vast repository of magical knowledge that stretched over several floors. The walls were lined with towering shelves, each filled with ancient tomes, scrolls, and grimoires. It was a place of quiet reverence, where the air was thick with the scent of aged parchment and the faint hum of magic particles.
As he entered, Mortis was struck by the grandeur of the place. The library's vaulted ceilings were supported by intricately carved stone pillars, and the floors were polished marble, reflecting the soft glow of enchanted lanterns that hovered in mid-air. The shelves themselves were made of dark, polished wood, each one labeled with meticulous care. Students of the academy could access almost any book or scroll within the library without any fees or restrictions, making it an invaluable resource for all who sought knowledge. However, the highest floor of the library, where the most important and forbidden texts were kept, was accessible only to official magi with explicit permission from the head of the academy for some reason.
Mortis navigated the library with a sense of awe and curiosity. It was his first time in this grand repository of knowledge, and he felt a thrill of excitement as he wandered through the maze of shelves. He made his way to a secluded section dedicated to the histories and specializations of various magi academies. This was where he would find the information about other academies in the tournament.
He selected a table near a large window, where natural light streamed in, casting a warm glow over the ancient texts. He began to pull books from the shelves, each one heavy with the weight of knowledge. Mortis arranged them in a neat stack and sat down, his fingers brushing over the leather-bound covers.
The first book he opened was a comprehensive guide to the Cult of Eternal Damnation. The cult was notorious for its mastery of necromancy and the dark arts, specializing in the manipulation of life and death. Mortis read about their most powerful spells, which allowed them to raise the dead, drain the life force from their enemies and bind them to their will. The cult's students were known for their ruthless efficiency and their willingness to delve into forbidden magics. Among them, Lucien Blackwood stood out for his unparalleled skill in raising and commanding numerous undead. Selene Graves was renowned for her soul drain magic, which she used to weaken opponents and slowly kill them.
Mortis noted the names of several prominent students from the Cult of Eternal Damnation, each one a potential rival. He committed their abilities and weaknesses to memory, already forming strategies to counter their dark powers.
Next, he turned his attention to the Academy of the Forsaken. This academy focused on curses and shadow manipulation, delving into the mysteries of the void and the unseen. Mortis read about their techniques for weaving intricate curses that could cripple their opponents, as well as their ability to manipulate shadows to conceal their movements and strike from unexpected angles. The Academy of the Forsaken prided itself on its ability to strike fear into the hearts of its enemies. Nadia Darkshade, an expert in shadow manipulation, could meld with the shadows, becoming completely invisible. Theron Blackveil, known for his mastery of curses, crafted spells that caused excruciating pain or slow death.
As he studied, Mortis's mind worked tirelessly, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each academy. He knew that understanding his opponents would be crucial to his success in the tournament. He made detailed notes on the students of the Academy of the Forsaken, their specialties, and any known tactics they employed in battle.
Turning to the Light Magus Organizations, Mortis began with the Academy of the Arcane Light. This academy was dedicated to potioneering and protective magics, cultivating purity and the light within. Mortis read about their powerful healing potions, which could mend even the most grievous wounds, and their protective barriers, which could deflect both physical and magical attacks. The students of the Academy of the Arcane Light were known for their resilience and their ability to support their allies in battle. Lysandra Brightstar was renowned for her potioneering abilities, capable of adapting to any situation with her potions. Aldric Shieldborne, a master of protective barriers, could create shields that were nearly impenetrable for other apprentices, providing his allies with crucial defense.
Next, Mortis explored the Academy of the Radiant Dawn. This academy focused on elemental control, striving for balance and harmony. Their students were adept at manipulating the elements to their will, creating devastating attacks and formidable defenses. Rowan Earthshaker specialized in earth magic, using his power to create powerful seismic attacks and defensive barriers. Lyra Sunfire was known for her mastery of fire magic, her spells capable of incinerating opponents with intense heat.
Finally, Mortis delved into the mysteries of Yin-Yang Paradise. This academy practiced dual cultivation of light and darkness, seeking balance in all things. Their students were skilled in both offensive and defensive magics, using the interplay of light and dark to their advantage. Mei Yang specialized in dual-elemental attacks, combining the strengths of both light and dark to create unpredictable and powerful spells. Jin Wu was renowned for his ability to switch between offensive and defensive magic seamlessly, adapting to any situation.
As Mortis absorbed the wealth of knowledge before him, he felt a growing sense of confidence. He now had a comprehensive understanding of the academies and their most significant students. With this information, he could develop strategies to counter their strengths and exploit their weaknesses. His mind was already racing with plans, each one meticulously crafted to ensure his safety in the upcoming tournament.
Mortis spent hours in the library, delving deeper into the texts, cross-referencing information, and making detailed notes. He studied their spells, tactics, and known weaknesses, his analytical mind working tirelessly to piece together a comprehensive strategy. He knew that preparation was key, and he would leave no stone unturned in his quest for victory and the ancient potion as a reward for it.
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the library, Mortis closed the last of the books and leaned back in his chair. He felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing that he had gained valuable insights that would aid him in the tournament. With his notes carefully tucked away, he rose from his seat and made his way back to his quarters, his mind already shifting to the next phase of his preparation
Back in his quarters, Mortis spread out his notes on his desk, carefully reviewing everything he had learned. He began to formulate specific plans for each potential opponent, considering their strengths and how he could counter them. He knew that success in the tournament would require not only his own formidable skills but also a deep understanding of his enemies.
Mortis's room was sparsely furnished, a reflection of his singular focus on his goals. The walls were lined with empty shelves. A large, intricately carved wooden desk dominated one corner, its surface cluttered with parchment and ink. Mortis sat down at the desk, his fingers tracing the outlines of the notes and diagrams he had drawn.
As he worked, Mortis felt a surge of determination. The tournament was a test, not only of his abilities and power but also of his resourcefulness. He would face powerful opponents, each one competing for the first place. But Mortis knew that he was different. He was willing to do whatever it took to achieve his goals, to sacrifice anything or anyone in his pursuit of power.