As the morning light filtered through the narrow window of Mortis Nacht's quarters, it illuminated the carefully laid-out notes and diagrams on his desk. Mortis had spent the night devising and refining his strategies for the upcoming tournament. He had meticulously analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of each academy.
Mortis knew that the best chance for him to claim victory lay in understanding the type of spells and specializations of his opponents and devising countermeasures that would exploit their weaknesses. He sat at his desk, his keen eyes scanning the parchment filled with his notes about the other academies.
The Cult of Eternal Damnation, the Academy of the Forsaken, the Academy of the Arcane Light, the Academy of the Radiant Dawn, and Yin-Yang Paradise—each had their unique strengths and weaknesses. Mortis knew that understanding his opponents was crucial, but more important was knowing how to counter them effectively.
The Cult of Eternal Damnation specialized in necromancy and dark arts, with students like Lucien Blackwood and Selene Graves posing significant threats. Mortis considered the best ways to counter their abilities. Disruption-based spells would be essential. He needed something that could scatter their undead minions and shield him from soul-draining attacks. An offensive spell to disrupt concentration would be ideal.
Next, the Academy of the Forsaken, with its focus on curses and shadow manipulation, required a different approach. Nadia Darkshade and Theron Blackveil's mastery over shadows and curses could be neutralized with his own hiding spells and some area-effect spells. Mortis would need a defensive spell to protect against sneak attacks and an offensive spell to attack large areas.
The Academy of the Arcane Light was dedicated to potioneering and protective magics, with students like Lysandra Brightstar and Aldric Shieldborne excelling in healing and shielding. Mortis knew he needed spells that could allow him to sneak behind them without their notice. A powerful offensive spell to kill them in one hit like a fireball and a sneaking spell like Darkness Veil to get behind their backs.
For the Academy of the Radiant Dawn, specializing in elemental control, Mortis thought of Rowan Earthshaker and Lyra Sunfire. Their precise control of elements wasn't a significant problem; he could just counter them with his offensive and stealth spells.
Finally, Yin-Yang Paradise practiced dual training of light and darkness affinities, with Mei Yang and Jin Wu posing a unique challenge. Mortis decided that disrupting their balance would be key and he could achieve this just with his spells if he use them correctly.
With his strategies mapped out, Mortis knew he needed to acquire the specific spells that matched these types. The trading post within the academy was his next destination. The trading post was a bustling hub where students and magi exchanged contribution points for spells, potions, and magical artifacts.
The trading post was an open space filled with stalls and counters, each operated by other apprentices. Shelves lined with storage crystals, potions, and other items surrounded the area.
Mortis approached one of the counters, where an old apprentice looked up as he approached. "How can I assist you?" the apprentice asked, his voice a little hoarse.
"I'm looking for specific types of spells," Mortis replied, handing over his list. The magus took it, his eyes scanning the parchment before nodding.
"These are heavy requirements. They will cost you a significant amount of contribution points."
Mortis nodded. "I'm aware. I have enough points."
The magus raised an eyebrow but said nothing as he began to retrieve the requested storage crystals with spell charts. Mortis watched him carefully, his mind already calculating the amount of points he would be spending. He knew the value of each spell and had saved his contribution points, never wasting them on trivial items or useless spells.
The magus returned with a set of storage crystals, each one containing a detailed spell chart. Mortis took them, one by one, and examined the intricate runes and incantations inscribed within the crystals. Each spell was designed with precision, their complexities revealing the power they held.
The first spell he reviewed was "Dark Disruptive Pulse," an offensive spell that sent out a wave of magical energy capable of potentially scattering undead and breaking the caster's concentration. Mortis studied the runes carefully, noting the specific details required to cast it effectively. This spell would be crucial against the necromancers of the Cult of Eternal Damnation.
The next and last spell was "Shadow Ward," a defensive spell designed to protect the caster from most curses and dark magic on the apprentice level. The spell chart detailed an invisible protective barrier that would encase Mortis, reflecting curses back to their origin. This would be particularly useful against the Academy of the Forsaken.
Satisfied with his selections, Mortis completed the transaction with the required contribution points. The magus checked the details of the transaction, nodded in approval, and returned the remaining crystals to their shelves. Mortis left the trading post, his mind already focused on mastering these new spells.
Instead of returning to his quarters, Mortis made his way to the academy's training area. The training area was a large, open space divided into several sections, each designed for different types of magical practice. Some sections were equipped with dummies and targets for offensive spell practice, while others had stages with barriers around for training duels between students.
As he entered the training area, Mortis felt a sense of anticipation. This was where he would train and get used to his new spells, integrating them into his repertoire of spells with precision and discipline. He chose a secluded corner, away from the prying eyes of other students, and began his rigorous practice.
He started with "Dark Disruptive Pulse." Mortis stood before a row of training dummies, each one programmed with magic runes to simulate movement and attacks. He focused his energy, on chanting the incantation and deliberate gestures. A wave of crackling energy shot forth from his hands, striking the dummies and causing them to sway. Mortis noted the range and impact, adjusting his stance and refining his technique with each attempt until the spell was nearly perfectly executed.
Next, he turned to "Shadow Ward." Mortis conjured a protective barrier around himself, feeling the dark magic ripple and solidify into an invisible shield. Mortis practiced conjuring the spell repeatedly, ensuring he could cast it swiftly and accurately in the heat of battle.
Hours turned into days as Mortis honed his skills in the training area. His focus was unyielding, his determination evident in every precise movement. He visualized the tournament scenarios, refining his strategies further. He saw himself facing Lucien Blackwood, using Dark Disruptive Pulse to scatter the undead and break the necromancer's concentration. He imagined countering Nadia Darkshade's shadow attacks with Shadow Ward, reflecting her curses back to her.
As the days passed, Mortis felt a growing sense of confidence. His understanding of the spells deepened, and his execution became more precise. He knew that his success in the tournament would come from his preparation, his calculations, and his focus.