Chereads / Quantum Spell Rise of the Neural Mage / Chapter 11 - Episode 11: "The Unexpected Flame"

Chapter 11 - Episode 11: "The Unexpected Flame"

Izzan's Learning Progress

In the two years since his rebirth in this world, Izzan Elric had shown remarkable development. At just three years old, Izzan could already read and comprehend ancient texts from the continent of Eldoria—a truly extraordinary feat for his age. This ability was largely due to the guidance of Athena, the intelligent AI who continued to mentor him. However, his learning journey was not without its challenges.

As a bright and curious child, Izzan often engaged in intense debates with Athena over mana understanding and magical concepts he learned from ancient books. Although Athena was an AI programmed to provide accurate and detailed information, Izzan still had his own perspectives that sometimes differed from Athena's guidance.

Debate on Mana Manipulation

One day, Izzan was studying an ancient book about mana manipulation. The book featured a diagram showing how to manipulate mana flow by rotating certain energy lines. With his sensitivity to magical energy, Izzan felt that the diagram could be interpreted differently.

Izzan: "Look at this, Athena! I think the energy lines should be rotated counterclockwise, not clockwise as written here. I can feel a difference in the flow."

Athena (calm yet firm): "Izzan, my data shows that rotating the energy lines counterclockwise can cause instability in the mana flow. There is a high risk of mana explosion if done incorrectly. Out of 154 similar cases, 98.7% ended with serious injury or worse."

Izzan (confidently): "But this is just theory, Athena! I can't rely solely on these books. How can we know without trying? Maybe there's a better way to do it."

Athena, with her exceptional analytical capacity, could understand the logic behind Izzan's desire to experiment. However, as an AI designed to protect and guide, she could not ignore the potential risks.

Athena (sighing electronically): "Such human logic. The desire to try new things is indeed important, but you must also consider the risks involved. Alright, if you want to try it, I will monitor closely. But remember, if chaos ensues, you cannot say I didn't warn you."

The Dangerous Experiment

With determined resolve, Izzan began practicing his theory. In his secluded study room, he drew a magical circle on the floor, following the instructions from the ancient book he had read. Carefully, he focused his concentration on the mana flowing through his body, attempting to manipulate it as he believed was correct.

Athena activated all her sensors and safety protocols, ready to intervene if things went awry. As Izzan began rotating the energy flow counterclockwise, Athena warned of a sudden energy spike.

Athena: "Izzan, there is an energy spike beyond safe limits. I strongly advise you to stop this experiment now!"

However, Izzan, stubborn as ever, was confident he could control the situation. Focusing even harder, he attempted to stabilize the increasingly unstable energy flow. Suddenly, the energy became too strong, and a small explosion occurred, resulting in unexpected flames flickering around the magical circle.

Izzan (surprised and slightly panicked): "Athena! What's happening?!"

Athena (seriously): "This is the result of incorrect manipulation. This small explosion is a warning. Fortunately, I have activated mana containment protocols. But if you continue without correction, the damage could be much worse."

Izzan (acknowledging with embarrassment): "Alright, alright. You were right, Athena. I might have been too reckless."

Athena (with a slightly relieved but still firm tone): "Experience is the best teacher, Izzan. However, learning from mistakes does not mean ignoring the risks. Let's try again, but this time with a safer approach."

Reflection and Learning

After the incident, Izzan sat in contemplation. Though he often insisted on finding new ways to master magic, he realized that experimentation without a deep understanding could be dangerous. Athena, despite their frequent debates, genuinely intended to protect and guide him.

Izzan (with a small smile): "You know, Athena, you may not have emotions, but sometimes you sound like a very concerned mother."

Athena (in a neutral tone): "If caretaking were part of my programming, perhaps so. However, my primary priority is to ensure your safety and success in this journey, Izzan."

Izzan (with renewed enthusiasm): "Alright, I'll be more careful. And this time, let's study this mana flow more thoroughly."

With renewed determination, Izzan returned to his study desk, ready to delve deeper, this time with greater caution and attention to detail. Although still young, this magical world was full of challenges and valuable lessons ready to be faced, with Athena always by his side.