The next morning, I wake up with a quiet determination, my mind still buzzing from the events of the Awakening Ceremony. Slipping into my usual attire, I decide to head to the library, a place of solace and learning. As I enter, the familiar scent of old parchment fills the air, and I spot Old Man Ian, as usual, sitting at his desk. He glances up from his book, offering a warm smile.
"Morning, young master," he greets.
"Good morning," I reply, nodding respectfully before moving toward the section that holds the knowledge I seek—magic and affinities. Today, I need clarity, and nothing clears my mind like immersing myself in these ancient texts.
I browse the shelves until I find the book I'm looking for. Settling into a chair in a quiet corner, I open it and begin to read.
In the world of Zephyros, there are ten known magical affinities, each with unique traits and power levels. Among them, Fire, Water, Earth, Lightning, and Air are considered the basic elemental affinities. These elements, while common, offer versatility. Fire brings destruction, Water holds the potential for healing, Earth grants defence, and Lightning offers speed. Air, though rare, can manipulate the winds and sky.
Then, there are the greater affinities: Nature, Light, and Pure Shadow. The Pure Shadow affinity, like the one Astor wields, runs deep in our family's lineage. It allows users to manipulate shadows but not space—this is what sets Pure Shadow apart from my own supreme Shadow affinity. While Astor and many of our ancestors can command shadows and darkness, I have something more—the ability to manipulate space itself through shadow.
But the supreme elements stand above the rest: Celestial, Arcane, and Shadow. The supreme Shadow element, the one I possess, grants the user the power to manipulate both shadow and space, a rare and dangerous combination. Celestial magic, another supreme element, deals with mass manipulation, curses, and healing. Those who wield Celestial are said to possess enhanced stamina and healing abilities, making them formidable. And then, there's Arcane—the most mysterious of all. There isn't much written about it, even in this book. Mother once told me that Arcane users can manipulate the very essence in the surrounding environment, bending the natural laws in ways that no other affinity can. It's no wonder the Valencrest family keeps such a tight hold on any information about Arcane; the power it holds is almost incomprehensible.
As for the greater affinities, Nature allows the manipulation of plants and has powerful healing properties. Light, similarly, can manipulate the properties of light and also provides a healing factor, though in different ways than Celestial. And, of course, shadow magic users—those without the supreme variant—can control shadows and darkness, but they lack the spatial manipulation I possess.
The basic elemental affinities, while common, hold a significant advantage. With the right conditions, they can evolve. Evolution of affinities is extremely rare, especially in humans, but it's not unheard of. Astor and Zara are rare cases, born with evolved affinities. Astor's fire element, for instance, has evolved into something far more powerful, as has Zara's earth affinity. In the right circumstances, an evolved elemental affinity can rival a supreme element in its own domain.
But why do we call supreme elements "supreme"? It's because these elements can manipulate the very fundamentals of reality, concepts of physics and magic that our world cannot even begin to understand—things even technology on Earth couldn't achieve. This is why those who wield these elements are so deeply respected, like the Valencrest family, rulers of the kingdom, or the Luminara family, known for their strength. Though some members of the Shadowstar family have been born with the supreme Shadow element, we are known more for our mastery of the Pure Shadow affinity.
As I turn the pages, the next section of the book delves into the stages of magical mastery. Each stage represents a distinct evolution in a mage's abilities and knowledge.
The first stage, Novice (Stage 1), is where it all begins. It's the foundation for every mage. At this point, individuals start to explore their magical potential, trying to form their essence core and harness even the most basic spellwork. I remember reading that many people in the kingdom never even reach this stage, making it more valuable than many realize.
Then there's the Apprentice (Stage 2), where a mage starts to gain a deeper understanding of their chosen affinity. Complex spells become attainable, and the magic within them starts to feel more natural. It's said that this is where a mage begins to form a bond with their essence, letting it guide them as much as they control it.
The next level, Adept (Stage 3), is when mages can start combining elements to create unique effects. A fire mage might be able to manipulate the heat in their surroundings to amplify their spells, or a water mage might use water to enhance healing techniques. This is where magic becomes more fluid, adaptable, and creative.
Master (Stage 4) is the stage where most mages start to stand out. Masters possess profound knowledge of their affinity and have the ability to perform powerful magic that ordinary mages can only dream of. People who reach this stage often hold positions of influence, as their power garners respect from peers and the kingdom alike.
Archmage (Stage 5) marks the point where one is no longer just a master of their affinity but a recognized leader in magical communities. Archmages often guide others and are at the forefront of magical research or defence. Their expertise is valued, and their knowledge is often passed down to the next generation of mages.
The book moves on to Sage (Stage 6), a title bestowed upon those who have become wise and knowledgeable, not just in their affinity but in multiple aspects of magic. Sages often study the history of magic, discovering long-forgotten spells and principles that can push the boundaries of what is known.
Then comes the Magus (Stage 7), a figure with unparalleled mastery over their affinities, capable of extraordinary feats. Mages of this level can affect the world in ways that seem miraculous. Few ever achieve this, but those who do are often remembered in the annals of history.
The stage of Grand Magus (Stage 8) feels almost legendary. Individuals at this level are said to have transcended the ordinary limits of their power, becoming near-mythical figures. The Grand Magus title is reserved for those who have not only mastered their affinity but also reached a level where their influence spans the entire world of magic.
And finally, the Supreme Magus (Stage 9)—the ultimate peak of magical evolution. Supreme Magi have transcended their very affinity, becoming beings of pure magic. I wonder how it must feel to reach that level, where essence flows through every fibber of your being, allowing you to bend the very fabric of reality.
Closing the book, I realize the long road ahead. The deeper I go into my studies, the more aware I become of the immense power and responsibility magic holds.
"I thought so... Theron Valencrest is a Grand Magus. I wonder what stage my grandparents are," I muse, my thoughts lingering on the vast gulf that separates the magical stages. The power someone like Theron wields is almost unfathomable, and to think my grandparents might not be far behind… It sends a shiver down my spine.