Over the course of the next six days, Layzal immersed himself in the mana manipulation classes. Each session with Instructor Elara deepened his understanding of his mana flow, honing his control and precision. The early days were dedicated to mastering the basics—sensing, guiding, and shaping mana. The techniques were fundamental but crucial, laying the groundwork for more advanced magic.
Layzal focused intently during these sessions, absorbing every detail about mana's nature and how to harness it effectively. The concepts were intricate, and while his proficiency grew steadily, the true test would come with the application of this knowledge to create his own spell.
As the sixth day approached, Layzal felt a surge of determination. The time had come to begin crafting his spell, an intricate process that would test both his understanding and creativity. He had settled on a spell that would harness his blood magic—a spear that, upon striking a surface, would cause blood spikes to erupt from the earth. The effectiveness of the spell would be determined by the amount of mana used, allowing him to influence both the scale and intensity of the attack.
With his plan in mind, Layzal began working on the spell. The process was both demanding and meticulous. He started by channelling his blood mana to form the spear, ensuring its projection was precise. Once he had mastered the basic formation of the spear, he turned his focus to the secondary effect—the eruption of blood spikes from the ground.
The first few attempts were fraught with difficulty. The blood spikes were erratic, their formation inconsistent and uncontrolled. Layzal needed to refine his mana control to achieve the desired outcome. He practised tirelessly, adjusting the amount of mana and experimenting with different techniques to stabilise the spell.
On the final day before they were to leave for war, Layzal was determined to complete his spell. The pressure was mounting, but his resolve remained steadfast. He worked through the day, perfecting the intricacies of his spell and ensuring that the blood spikes would form reliably and effectively.
As evening fell, Layzal conducted his final test. He positioned himself in the practice area, his focus unwavering as he prepared to demonstrate the spell. With a measured release of mana, he hurled the spear toward the target—a patch of earth set up for this purpose. Upon impact, a series of blood spikes erupted from the ground, forming a dangerous perimeter around the impact zone.
The result was impressive. The blood spikes, imbued with mana, were sharp and formidable, creating a deadly field around the target. The spell's effectiveness was clear, and the consistency of the spikes was a testament to Layzal's skill and dedication.
Instructor Elara observed the demonstration with a mix of approval and intrigue. "Excellent work, Layzal," she said, her tone reflecting genuine admiration. "You've successfully developed a spell that combines offensive power with tactical advantage. The use of blood spikes is both innovative and effective."
Layzal's calm demeanour remained unchanged. "I aimed to create a spell that would offer both protection and offence. The blood spikes can control the battlefield and act as a deterrent for multiple opponents."
Layzal continued calmly," I thought of making a defensive spell but that would be worse. No matter how good my defence is, it doesn't matter if there is a tide of beasts around me that slowly whittles me down. With this spell I can use it to my advantage and never have to worry about being surrounded."
Elara nodded, clearly impressed. "Your choice demonstrates a keen understanding of your unique abilities. The ability to manipulate blood for both direct and indirect attacks can be highly advantageous. Continue refining the spell and practising its execution. The effectiveness of your magic will depend on your mastery and control."
With the spell completed just before their departure, Layzal felt a deep sense of accomplishment. His preparation was complete, and he was ready to face the upcoming challenges. The spell he had crafted—a manifestation of his blood magic—would be a powerful tool in the battles ahead. His very own spell, The Spear Of Change.
The morning of departure arrived with a chilling breeze that swept through the academy grounds. Layzal, having completed his spell just in time, prepared himself for the journey ahead. The recruits assembled in a designated area, their faces a mixture of apprehension and resolve. The excitement and tension in the air were palpable as they gathered their gear and made final preparations.
The leader who had originally escorted them from the village now reappeared. His presence was commanding, and his gaze was as cold as the morning air. He scanned the recruits with an indifferent expression before speaking in a deep, resonant voice that cut through the murmur of the crowd.
"You have all had two weeks to train here. Now, you are being sent to war. Your status will be elevated to recruits, and one of you will become an initiate." His eyes locked onto Layzal as he pronounced the title.
The leader's voice was unyielding, each word a stark reminder of the harsh reality awaiting them. "I expect many of you to die. But, if you manage to survive, you will have the opportunity to study at the real academy for one month."
The announcement hit the recruits with a wave of shock and disbelief. Whispers spread through the crowd, their anxious faces reflecting the gravity of the situation. Before the confusion could fully erupt, the leader raised his hand, silencing the crowd with an air of finality.
"Yes, the real academy," he continued, his tone unrelenting. "This academy is merely a preliminary stage. The Royal Academy Ancora is reserved for those who have proven themselves through battle. You haven't earned the privilege to learn there yet."
As the murmurs grew louder with questions and indignation, the leader's gaze hardened. "Now, you will all be sent to the same battlefield, except for Initiate Regula. He will be deployed to a different front." His voice grew colder as he added, "Before any of you complain, understand this: Is it unfair? Yes. Suck it up. He has talent you do not. Gifted individuals like him face a tougher path. Their talents are expected to meet higher standards. They undertake more challenging missions and endure harsher conditions."
Layzal remained composed, his face a mask of calm determination amidst the swirling emotions of his fellow recruits. He had anticipated this treatment, knowing that being gifted came with its own set of trials and expectations.
The leader's words served as a harsh reminder of the brutal reality of their situation. The recruits would face the battlefield with a mixture of fear and resolve, each grappling with their own destiny. Layzal, though separated from his peers, focused on his own path, understanding that his unique abilities would shape his experiences and challenges in the war to come.
As the leader's speech concluded, the recruits were directed to their respective transport units. Layzal, now officially recognized as an initiate and gifted, was assigned to a separate group for his deployment. He prepared for the journey with a stoic focus, ready to confront the trials of war with the precision and strategy he had cultivated during his time at the academy.