Cruzer opened his eyes and glanced at the book on the table, ready to pick up where he had left off. He started reading again, his focus solely on the text before him. The rustling of pages was the only sound in the otherwise silent library. After a few hours, he sighed in relief, feeling he had absorbed a significant amount of information. Glancing at the nearby window, he noticed the sky had darkened, signaling the arrival of night.
He closed the book, the soft rustling of its pages breaking the silence. The library was now bathed in the gentle glow of floating orbs, casting a serene and almost magical ambiance. Carefully, he placed the book back on the shelf and made his way toward the grand, double doors. The intricate designs of mythical creatures and symbols carved into the dark mahogany seemed to come alive in the dim light. Pushing open the heavy doors, he was greeted by a rush of cool night air, a refreshing contrast to the library's warmth.
The academy's campus had transformed under the moonlight. The pathways, lined with ancient trees, were illuminated by softly glowing lanterns that cast long shadows on the cobblestone walkways. The distant sounds of nocturnal creatures created a soothing backdrop as Cruzer began his journey home.
The walk from the academy to his home was familiar, but tonight it felt different. The day's events and the knowledge he had gained weighed heavily on his mind. He replayed the encounter with the mysterious figure and the cryptic message about his destiny. The mark of the ***********, the ranks of Mystics, and the various methods of gaining experience swirled in his thoughts.
As he walked, he mentally organized the information he had obtained from the library about the Mystics. There were ten ranks for Mystics, and each rank had levels, spell mastery limits, and job titles associated with it.
Novice Mystics, ranging from levels 1 to 50, were just beginning to harness their innate magical abilities. They learned basic spellcasting, energy manipulation, and foundational magical principles. Novices could only master Rank 0 beginner spells, and their progression involved mastering simple spells and gaining an initial understanding of magic's core concepts.
Adept Mystics, from levels 51 to 100, had a solid grasp of magical principles and could perform more complex spells. They began specializing in a particular area of magic, such as elemental control, healing, or illusion. Adepts could master up to Rank 1 spells, and they gained a deeper understanding of magical energies while developing more refined techniques. This rank marked the true beginning for Mystics as the first job title was chosen at this level.
Intermediate Mystics, from levels 101 to 150, possessed a solid command of advanced spells and rituals. They blended different magical techniques and began developing their unique magical style. Intermediate Mystics could master up to Rank 2 spells, making their abilities more versatile and allowing them to tackle a wider range of magical challenges and contribute more effectively to their factions.
Advanced Mystics, from levels 151 to 200, demonstrated exceptional skill in executing high-level spells and manipulating powerful energies. They were well-regarded within their communities for their expertise and leadership. Advanced Mystics could master up to Rank 3 spells, and upon reaching this rank, a second job title became available, further enhancing their capabilities and role within their faction.
Master Mystics, from levels 201 to 300, often took on mentorship roles, guiding those below them and playing a crucial role in their faction's strategic efforts. They performed extraordinary magical feats with precision and held significant influence within their communities. Masters could master up to Rank 4 spells, developing a personal magical signature and excelling in both offensive and defensive magic.
Grandmaster Mystics, from levels 301 to 400, were revered for their profound mastery and influence. They could channel immense magical energy and participate in major strategic decisions. Grandmasters could master up to Rank 5 spells, extending their expertise to handling large-scale magical events and maintaining a high level of authority within their factions or magical organizations.
Archmages, from levels 401 to 500, were elite figures with near-legendary status. They performed feats that could alter reality and wielded immense power. Archmages could master up to Rank 6 spells and often served as key advisors, leading powerful magical organizations and playing significant roles in shaping magical and political landscapes.
Sages, from levels 501 to 600, were legendary figures with unparalleled wisdom and magical prowess. They possessed a deep connection to mystical forces and offered guidance on profound matters. Sages could master up to Rank 7 spells, and their influence was vast, often seen as the ultimate sources of knowledge and power within their realms.
Celestial Mystics, from levels 601 to 800, wielded cosmic forces and possessed god-like abilities. Their actions could reshape the very fabric of existence. Celestial Mystics could master up to Rank 8 spells and were rarely seen, working behind the scenes or in distant realms. Their presence was both awe-inspiring and fearsome.
Eternal Mystics, from levels 801 to 1000, were among the most powerful entities in existence. They attained near-immortality and possessed the ability to manipulate fundamental aspects of reality itself. Eternal Mystics could master up to Rank 9 spells, and their influence extended across multiple realms. They were revered as the ultimate arbiters of mystical power. In this world, people with such levels were touted as legends and myths, as there was no publicly available record on this rank or those who had reached it.
As he walked through the quiet streets, the night air cool against his skin, Cruzer reflected on the various methods of gaining experience and advancing through these ranks. Fighting monsters, learning from magical books, rigorous training, interacting with magical artifacts, using magic in everyday tasks, participating in rituals, and exploring ancient ruins and mystical places all contributed to a Mystic's growth.
Finally, he reached his home. The modest house stood quietly under the moonlight, a place of comfort and familiarity. He paused at the door, taking a deep breath and reflecting on the day's revelations.
"I don't know which part of me is real or what awaits me in this world of Mystics," he muttered to himself, feeling a mix of excitement, awe, and fear. "But it seems my ordinary life is about to become extraordinary."
He clenched his fist, steeling himself for the journey ahead, and opened the door to his house. As he glanced at his reflection in the mirror, he whispered, "Farewell to the old me, and welcome to the new." With a determined look, he headed to bed, ready to embrace whatever tomorrow would bring.