《The Novel's Professor》 Chapter 1 1: Rio The stars sure are bright, he silently thought, while staring at the grand view of the night sky. The stars were nothing but enviable. They were grand, bright, and ever-shining. A beacon of hope and light, something he could never be. A life of void, and monotonous continuity, can only envy those like stars, for which he is nothing but a simple existence with nothing going on in his life. The fumes of his smoking continued to spread, the air having an acrid, ufortable smell. Once he was as bright as the star, it was when he was a kid. A kid with a cheery personality, unrealistic dreams and expectations. Now? He was just nothing sort of simr. If he had a childhood friend that recognized him, they would probably blink in shock to his current state. Depressing and apathetic. Reality was just too cruel. Growing up was something many were usually excited about, including him, but when you actually experience growing up, you will realize everything that you thought as a child was fictitious at best. Dreams and goals were just shattered by the cruel projection of reality. In that matter, men were just not born equal. Equality is nonsense when you have people better than you at birth. There is simply a category; for those destined for sess and whose life is thrilling. And a category for those like him who are destined for mediocrity and boring lives. Even if you put in hard-work, without talent and luck, it''s simply fictitious to hope to be in the realms of sessful people. Then again, his life was never about seeking sess. It was the feeling the came with it. Fulfillment. The smoke slowly drifted away. That was when he snapped out of his daze and realized the cigarette ran out. He threw it away and stepped on it. ''I been thinking of useless negative things...tely,'' He thought while shaking his head. Taking out his phone, the screen reflected his appearance. ck hair, and eyes, with white skin. Average at its utmost, his face was young, not a baby face but likened of a young adult. "As I am a 26 year old young adult," he muttered in-a-matter-of-fact tone. Turning on his phone, he messaged the author he''s currently assigned to. Being an editor is one of his part-time jobs, specifically on web novels. The author he''s assigned to is not that bad, his book is good too. Albeit a bit clich¨¦ and slow. ''Hey, Rio here,'' he typed. His name, as it shows, is Rio. A very ironic name, like the blue bird from a cartoon that didn''t know how to fly, but eventually achieved to. He continued typing, ''Where are you?'' He waited for several minutes, but the man didn''t respond. At this point, he should just go to the man''s ce and talk about it in person, he thought. ¡ª The apartment where the man was staying at is unusually big, even if Rio came here a couple times in the past. It''s simply a treat to enter such a house. John Smith was the name of the author he was assigned to. John Smith was a friendly and approachable man. Rio originally thought he will never get along with someone so cheery, but life just turns around and give a big p like usual. They were friends, great one''s infact. He was inside the apartment, yet Rio still didn''t see John Smith anywhere. Maybe he was at upstairs, he thought as he tried calling onto his name, "John!" He tapped his foot impatiently, as a few minutes pass yet the man in question didn''t answer. This was rare. Usually he didn''t go outside at this time of the night, he was a frantic writer. His dedication was truly insane. One time he wrote a full day without break. It was like information was being transmitted to his mind, Rio thought. Who was he kidding? That''s just bizarre. Then again, the man in question was an enigma itself. "It seems like he isn''t home yet," He muttered loudly, as he checked his watch. As he said that, a vibration came into his pocket. He took out his phone and speak of the devil. It was John. He messaged me, though the message was a bit weird. ''Hey, Rio. Do you like your life?'' That came off...randomly, but maybe it was something important. He thought as he answered. ''... Frankly, no.'' ''Do you wish for... a more thrilling? A more fantasy like, magical like, life?'' Now that one was a weird question. His instincts were shouting red gs at the moment but he calmed it down. Instead of responding, he instead asked. ''What is this about? That''s a weird question,'' Rio messaged, which got an immediate response from John. ''Nothing, just answer it. Think of it¡­ as a way to finish my novel.'' Oh, so it was that. Though why that question? Well oddly enough he was getting sleepy so he just answered as best as he could. ''Well, yes.'' Then John didnt reply anymore. It was weird if ever he thinks about this day again, however, intense sleepiness was oveing his mental defenses. No, no¡ª It wasn''t sleepiness. He was cking out. He couldnt control his body anymore, he was in terror and shrill panic. But he couldnt move. It was like he''s going to sleep forever. He tried his best, but was simply not enough, just like always. Trying his best was never enough. His eyes closed, his body fell as a thud rang out in the room. It was unknown what happened. As his thud rang out, the door opened as it creaked. ¡ª Ah¡­what happened? His eyes were still closed, only to hear loud chatterings in the area. Frankly, it was annoying. He didn''t like crowded ces. The voices kept getting louder and then he opened his eyes in sheer annoyance. "¡­Eh?" Eh? Where..am I? His eyes darted around the room, noticing the unfamiliar walls and ceilings, along with several people. ..Where is this?! No, no¡ª first, what happened?! Frantically panicking, he resolved his thoughts and started to calm down and view the situation more calmly. The room was big, it was an office. Desk were all ced in the room, on top was papers and bags, Rio checked the desk he was on, and there was a namete. It was named, ''Rio Salem''. "¡­Rio Salem?" Sure, the first name was his, but thest name waspletely different. Salem isn''t his surname. Now he didn''t know what was happening. Why is he on the desk of this supposedly Rio Salem? The chats of nearby people were loud enough, so he deigned to listen to gain more information about what is happening. "So, do you think there''s gonna be some promising students this time?" "Well, the son of a duke is attending, and supposedly a talented kid from the middle of nowhere," "Ooh, wildcards eh? The son of the duke? Like the dukedom who specializes in Martial Arts and Sorcery?" Students¡­Rio pressed the information ''calmly''. Oh well, even if he was panicking inside it''s not like he''s showing it. Somehow this weirdly bizzarre plot is familiar, but put aside the familiarityter and review the situation for now. So. He got knocked outst night by suddenly cking out in John''s house. He woke up on a teacher''s office with no knowledge of whatever is happening, and apparently dukes and royalty still exist! Martial Arts and Sorcery?! If he had not known better, he would have thought he was in a fantasy¡­world. No..way right? Rio stood up and mmed the table, taking everyone''s sudden notice. The other teachers nced at him, noticed he was sweating. "Are you okay, Salem?" A few concerned ones asked, while others just casted a curious nce and resumed talking. "No, n¡ª, Yes. I''m fine¡­thank you." He nodded, still in daze. However distracted he was, he still caught up to what he was called. "What did you call me?" Rio asked in a hurried tone, worried as if confirming something ominous. The other party was bewildered and confused, but still tried their best to answer, "..Salem?" Something in Rio''s mind shut down, and boom he directly fell on the chair as he sat down. Noticing the odd vacant stare that Rio was giving, the other party distanced themselves. My name¡­is Rio Salem..? Isn''t that the name of the teacher here on this desk..? So¡­I''m Rio Salem? No, no, it''s too early to say. Let''s check a mirror. If my appearance is different then¡­ Seeing a ratherrge tablet on the desk, he picked it up and put the screen into his face. That''s where everything has been confirmed. This is not¡­him. He didn''t have brown hair nor as handsome of a face. His new face was like a piece of artworkpared to his original one. He tried opening the tablet with just the sheer absurdity of the situation. Then that''s where things got more absurd. Year, 2400, August 1. He feels likeughing. In just one single day, everything he knows about has been turned around. Reality, or rationality simply disappeared. Who is he anyhow? Is he Rio from 2021, or is he Rio Salem from 2400? He doesn''t know, truly. Everything has gone weird, crazy and insane. He cked out in his friend''s house, woke up in a different body on a futuristic world, apparently theres also magic and martial arts here. What is this a dungeon litrpg? Everything is just so bizarre that he simply smiled mirthlessly. It''s he gone insane or the world gone insane, frankly he hopes it''s thetter. At this point It wouldnt be a surprise if something like dragons or dimensions appeared. Other people, teachers, were starting to notice his weird vacant stare. It was as if a madman, no, it was like a human discovering nihilism and embracing nothingness. "¡­Salem?" Others called out to him, Rio turned around from the mirror, focusing his vacant nk stare on the person that called him. He didn''t know what he should do in this situation, so he simply smiled, and ask. "Yes," The others just felt weirded out, like it was ultism or mystic. Rio didn''t know he was already branded as a weirdo on his first day. Chapter 2 2: Miracle Invokers Rio sighed heavily confronted with a mind boggling revtion. In the end, he decided that thinking about things that will only make him worry is pointless, he set aside that matter for a different time. Whirling the blue pen on his desk, he figured that asking his colleagues about some info seems to be his best move right now, it didnt have to be important, but some info is still a help. Slightly leaning to his left, where a teacher is seated. Rio looked at her, he couldn''t help but notice that the teacher was a beauty. Above even the most beautiful celebrities Rio knew. Her blonde soft hair, flowing like a golden waterfall behind her back, and her eyes were like sapphire, shining blue and precious, with pure-white skin and soft lips. She was a magnum opus. Rio knew thatpliments and times to appreciate her beauty cer, what''s important is learning more about his situation. "Hello..?" The beautiful girl responded in kind, she nodded cheerfully and smiled dazzlingly. "Hello, Mr. Salem." She said in a polite formal tone, as she continued, "My name is Samantha Gaia Constantino! I am pleased to make your acquaintance!" "Such earnestness..." Rio muttered. He felt some kind of force making him attracted to her, she was just princess incarnate, considering that royalty still exist in this world It wasn''t farfetched to think she''s a princess. "Hello, Ms. Samantha," He responded in a simr polite manner, "I was wondering¡­if you had been teaching here for long?" Her head tilted, and eyes asking quizically of what am he was talking about. "Did we not just start our jobs as a new teacher, Mr. Salem?" Well, that was awkward. "Oh, right. I must''ve forgotten it due to the nervousness of being epted. Oh and don''t call me Salem, call me Rio." Rio chuckled while scratching his head awkwardly. "Well, It''s fine Mr. Rio. It''s fine to be nervous, this is after all thergest academy in the world Volund!" ¡­Volund? Isn''t that the name of the academy in the no¡ª "Hello? Mr. Rio? Hello?! Helloooooo.." Damn, she''s annoyingly cute. He wanted to pinch her small cheeks. However now was not the time for that. Volund was a crucial name, it might exin the reasons why he was here. "Hmm? What was that?" He asked half-distracted. This whole transmigration thing have gotten moreplicated, if his suspiciouns are correct¡­ As much as he wants to deny his suspiciouns, ultimately nothing is impossible. He would check the students list and confirm if everything is really what he thought it is. "I was worried about you, you were giving a nk look again," She says in a soft tone, somehowfortable, as she continued with a worried tone, "Are you sure you''re okay, Mr. Rio?" "Oh," He said, realizing that he was quite rude and caused the other party to worry. "It''s nothing, I''m fine. Also¡­do you have a student list here?" "You can check at your tablet, Mr Rio." She replied while pointing to the cyber tablet in Rio''s table. "I see," He said, as he looked at the tablet. Now that he examined it, it was quite big and fancy. It is a futuristic world. Wanting to confirm his suspiciouns as fast as possible, he continued, "Then pardon me, Ms. Samantha. I am grateful for your help." Turning back, and grabbing the tablet. His appearance was reflected in the screen. Even if it was the second time he was seeing this, it still felt weird and ominous. Every trace of his previous body was gone. The tablet was suprisingly easily essible, it didnt haveplicated procedures to open. It was like a modern tablet, albeit infinitely better and have more options. After a minute of searching, he finally got the student list. And there. His suspiciouns were correct after all. A name wasyed down on the document, Arcuied Valens Arcuied Valens. The main character of a novel in his previous life, specifically his friend, John Smith''s novel. Arcuied Valens was your typical protagonist, possesing a heroic personality but not impulsive nor rash. He was observant, and smart. In essence, he was a Gary Stu incarnate. Ignoring the main character for the moment, several implications went to his mind about his sudden transmigration. Of course, most of them were suspiciouns and baseless theories, but on the other hand, a conclusive fact is, "¡­John Smith has a hand over this," He muttered while thinking about his previous life, or per se, the events in John''s house, "He has to." I mean what better evidence is it that after replying to his cryptic non-sensical message, he supposedly cked-out and awaken to a novel the man in question wrote, Rio thought. At this moment he really wanted to find his friend, could he even be called a friend anymore? To confront him of what was happenning. Rio realized he hated being on the dark. He felt annoyance at the fact he doesnt know anything. He doesnt like being suprised and has no control over the situation. Sure, he did like to be in a fantasy world of magic and beast, but everything was just too sudden. He didnt have any time to react, or process the situation. To be honest, if he thought about it clearly. It wasn''t that bad. He got a chance to escape his life of void and monotonous continuity. Start a new, carve a life for his own, discover new things. In essence it was an adventurers dream. It''s just that imagining it in his mind and the event actually happenning are two drastically different things, He hadplex feelings about this new start of his. A part of him wanted to deny every unrealistic turn of events, another part of him wanted everything to be real and continue. If he were to choose between his life in modern earth and having a new life in another world of magic, then he will dly take thetter. His feelings were just not calmed yet. He decided to set aside such thoughts forter, as the announcements of students are starting. ¡ª Arcuied was having a normal day. Earlier today, he woke up from a nightmare, and realized his whole body was sweating in pure terror. He just sighed. It wasn''t the first time it happened. And it wasn''t going to be thest time. Something deep in his mind knows that it was a bad omen, but he didn''t know what the omen was. He shook his head hoping to clear his mind of pointless thoughts. He needed to focus. He''s on thergest academy, that means opportunity to get more stronger. He doesn''t want to forget his true goal. He examined the room he was currently in. It wasrge, unsuprisingly so. At the furthest front of the room was a stage, and above the stage was a transparent mirror. Staring at it deeply, he realized there were teachers in there. This is probably where they watch the students..? Arcuied thought, while turning his head and examining the back. The back was impressive to say the least. There were seats all over the ce, the seats were lined up neatly. Though there were also seats above them, ncing at them, he formed a presumption. The people above varied in age, some were young, and some were old, most of the guest were wearing fancy clothes and ornaments. Some had guards and butlers beside them. They seems to be nobles, or honorary guest, Arcuied thought, evidently no matter the case, they were special. After examing the whole room, he turned to look at the stage infront. "Good morning," A sound echoed,ing from the stage. In that instant every student turned to look at the stage. There was no one there. Until someone was suddenly there. It was bizzarre, cryptic and weird. Some rubbed their eyes thinking if they were imagining things. Dimensional Shift, Arcuied blinked in suprise at such a skill being applied. From his understanding, it was a [Sorcerer] Rank B Skill. An instantenous movement where the user transports to another position by shifting his dimensional positioning. As it sounds good at face value, it was impractical in real-life battles. To actually shift your dimensional positioning, you need to calcte the distance, time, and space(position) between two areas, and to do that urately you need to stand still as moving will mess up the calction. It doesnt help that the calction is hard even for a Rank B Sorcerer. After Arcuied appraised the skill, the man in the stage began to speak. The man was quite old. The man was covered with a snowy white cloak, his right hand caressing his long white beard and left hand holding a long magic staff. "My name is... Gregorious Valkor. The Vice-Director of Volund Academy," The old man, Greg, announced as he tapped his staff in the floor. The space looked like it warped, the normal clean tiles evaporated as purplish ck space began to cover the room. It was like the cosmos, the universe. If you look above, you will see the bright innumerable stars. A fitting symbolization of the honored guest above, they were like stars, shining brightly, a beacon of hope wherever they go. "I am here to wee you all young people to Volund Academy," Greg said loudly as he stared into the crowd of students, "The Volund Academy is not just any academy. It is the greatest among any other. It is best in teaching, and training. It has the most resources among others. All of you here are reviewed and analyzed by the staff, you are picked as talents of this generation!" Greg swung his staff as a luminiscient orb appeared on top of the room. It was formless, transparent, and shining. "Then¡­for what purpose are you students here for?" "It is to train you lots. To prepare you. To teach you the ways of magic, and powers of Miracle Invokers," Greg continued, as his voice getting louder each time he talked "A Miracle Invoker, a being who''s power is to wield miracles. Tomunicate with Godly Divines. To hath control nature itself. To shatter, cut, and pierce anything with your body. That¡­is what we teach you to be," "For only beings with such powers are able to protect humanity againts other races, especially demons. But do remember. We are here to teach you the powers of miracles," Greg walked around the stage as he continued, "Not to use it for your own misconduct, but to protect humanity. With great power,es great responsibility." As hisst resounded in the dim, quiet room. The students felt their blood boil, their faces resolved. Before they knew it, the spell that caused the room to make the tiles dissapear, has vanished. The room was now as it was previously, filled with clean white tiles. Arcuied was the same. He felt the innate desire to protect, guide and defend. It was like he was programmed to do so. However, as much as his feelings of heroism was big, it wouldn''t affect his true goal. Correction, he wouldn''t allow it to. The people above varied in expressions. Some were happy, while some were uninterested or unimpressed. It didnt take long before the students and guest above, apuded alike. ¡ª Rio looked beneath the mirror, his eyes slightly distracted. He remembered that as much as this was a fantasy world, this was also a cruel, and grueling world full of threats. The external threat of demons, and the internal conflict of humanity. In the original novel, the main cast of characters fought threats of several kinds, whether world ending, or just a street famed serial killer. They fought these threats using the powers of magic, or so this society would call it, Miracle Invokers. If he remembered correctly, Miracle Invokers were seperated into different sses or professions. Granted magic is infinitely diverse, famous geniuses across the history merely simplified the threemonly ways to use magic. Mystic or ultist, the profession tomunicate with existences beyond humanprehension, or beings outside the cosmos, this ismonly acuited as the most mysterious and hardest ss. The Sorcerers, a profession that came from the Elves, it focused on controlling naturews itself until when humanity took charge of its development and it started to control beyond nature and even thews of space and time itself. Finally, Martial Artist. An original profession from humanity of using magic to enchance a person''s body to fight beings above their own. It is the first profession humanity used, dating back from the Era of Magical Beast. While this profession is simple to understand, it is the most diverse among the three. People in this profession differ from Swordmasters, Archers, Lancers, or just Brawlers. Miracle Invokers are also ssified by rank. Starting at Rank E, to eventually reaching Rank S. This was the general conscensus humanity as a whole reached throughout history. As for him, well, he doesnt really know. He did just arrived here moments ago. He thought of experimentingter and testing things out, though he would have no problem in theory since he read most of the info in the novel, but trying it out in real time and thinking in theory are two vastly different thing. Well, such things forter..I guess, Rio thought as he heard the ending of the announcement and prepared to meet the guest at the designated room. Chapter 3 3: Practice The room where he was in, was the most luxurious ce he ever saw or gone too. There were just ornaments, ribbons, and decorations everywhere. He saw several paintings that seemed so lifelike and unreal, he guessed it''s probably reinforced with some kind of magic. Granted, Rio was a poor joe in hisst life so a view of noble proportions is bound to suprise him. As awe-struck he was, he doesnt want to be seen as a country bumpkin, so he quelled the suprise and awe in his expression. He looked around in the room, and at the corner he saw Samantha. She looked like a princess incarnate, is because she is a noble. He forgot, or simply, the situation was too sudden that he didnt remember her. She appeared around the middle contents of the novel. She was the eldest sister of the current heir of Desmon Family. Her story is quite tragic to say the least. She was originally going to be the heir of the Desmon, however when results of her potential were out, she was in fact untalented. In the end, her little brother was chosen as the heir. She didn''t hate that she got reced by her brother. She hated the fact that her existence was a failure. She set her sights on teaching, and there shended on Volund Academy because of her capabilities and background. She was a minor character in the novel, and often minor characters either get forgotten or die. At the battle of the Second Titan, Titanmachia, she died valiantly protecting the school. As for Rio''s opinion, well he might not know her, but one thing is for sure. He would try to save her. Keyword, try. Hell, he didnt even know if he can do anything againts this world full of magical beings. He would focus on trying to sustain and improve himself first, before thinking of helping anybody. Granted, the only reason he wanted to help her is because he found her story rtable and tragic, as long as it doesnt cost him something he would help. He was no saint afterall. As for the plot? The Second Titan, Titanmachia is still far away from the current events. And of course he will interfere, even if he wants it or not, the safety of the world corrtes to his safety. Putting that aside, he had been staring at her for a while. It was good she didn''t notice, or else it would''ve been weird and left a bad impression. Then again, with that amount of people surrounding her it''s not like she would notice him staring at her. It was cheery in the room, full of noise as many people talked to each other. And then a loud p echoed in the room. Rio stared at the doorway at the front, there was a man. The man''s appeareance silenced the room, and Rio didnt know why. The man was intimidating, his expression was tense and stern. His face was mature, not old nor young. His eyes deep ck, as he wore a monocle in his left eye. His ashen long gray hair tied into a ponytail in his back. He walked silently with his hands at the back, his formal wear showing his refined stature. He seemed important, if those bodyguards or bulky built men standing by his side are anything to go by. The man stopped upfront, and all guest, teachers alike stared in respect. "I thank you all for attenting this glorious event. As the Director of this academy, it fills me with joy to start yet another year of teaching... This event is a celebration for a new start of our academy," The man spoke, his words soft yet his face remained unchanged, ever tense and serious. "Afterwards is the start of the year. A new year for teachers and students alike. Even be if you''re a peasant, noble or neither. Volund wees all." As soon as his words finished, a man approached. The man was blonde, his face was quite remarkable, but when Rio stared he felt as if the man''s face was illusionary. The blonde man bowed before speaking, "It is truly unfortunate, Esteemed Director Guinevere. Our guild leader couldnte over due to dire matters." "I see," Guinevere said as he continued, "I understand, your guild''s matter is indeed dire, if what I heard holds any value." "Thank you for your magnimous understanding, Esteemed Director Guinevere," The blonde man simply held a casual smile and bowed, as if his head suddenly sprouted a memory, he continued "Ah, I almost forgot. Our guild, Heavenspawn, would like to invite your esteemed self some day," Guinevere simply nodded, and the blonde man noting the response left to go back in his group. Rio understood why people showed such respect towards the man. He was famed, in the novel, too. He is Guinevere, The Man of Magic, The Director of Volund Academy. His titles aren''t for show, they are direct evidence of his capabilities. Guinevere by birth, is chosen. He was born with boundless talent, and achieved grand things,ter in life he made Volund Academy. He also noted the guild Heavenspawn. He barely remembered the guilds, however, Heavenspawn is a fairly important guild. If guild rankings are anything to go by, they are Top 3 in the whole world. Heavenspawn, as it''s name indicates, is a group of individuals who are talented at a certain aspect. Whether it be, ult, Alchemy, Architecture, Martial Arts, or anything. It''s been said that Director Guinevere has a hand over it''s creation. After that little conversation, the celebration continued without a hitch. Rio eyed the several people approaching other individuals. He knew they were some of the guest that were trying to make connections. If he had to guess, they were from various guilds. ¡ª Rio finally arrived at the room. He wandered around the halls for a long time. He got lost. The school is unsuprisingly gigantic on the inside, well it was a good thing he encountered a fellow teacher during his ''travels'', which the teacher in question helped him find the way to the private training room. There were two types of training room in the academy, one which is public. The other which is private. The public is free for all people inside the academy, it is mostly used for ss activities and exams. The private training room is a special room given to every student and teacher, it is their own personal limited training room. Rio held the white badge in his hand, it was silver white, having the mark of a staff, symbolizing magic or sorcery. It indicated the path the former ''Rio Salem'' took, the path of magic. As for Rio himself, he had ns on what to do with his powers, he decided he won''t limit himself to one ss. If others wouldve heard his thoughts they would''ve find him crazy and stupid. Focusing on one ss is already time consuming enough, but also, it was impossible. When magic first entered the body of mankind, people discovered there was a secret organ in the body. It was an independent organ. Extensive research shows that it could only be seen by using magic. It''s appearance was a transparent white cube. Since it was only discovered by magic, it''s purpose should also be rted to magic. With that thought process, geniuses of the past experimented countless times with magic and finally arriving at a result. The transparent cube was a container and a purifier of magic. Magic in essence is toxic and abnormal energy if demonic beast are used as an example. The transparent cube, also known as ?Miracle Core?, is able to contain magical energy and purify it, enabling pure magical energy spread to the body of a person. While magic is inherently toxic, it is also an energy or source of power. The spread of pure magical energy in the body made the bodies and organs of people stronger and better. After enough magical energy is contained in the ?Miracle Core? ascendance was the next option. Ascendance waster discovered as the solution to fix the problem of ?Miracle Cores?. By exploding the ?Miracle Core? and recreating them to be a bigger core at the same time, they create an event where the body experiences an intense absorbtion of magical energy and creating a bigger cube from before. Albeit it was a dangerous process, but the benefits were much more in the end. It was called Ascension for the fact it strengthens a person to multiple levels. However, the reason using two sses or more is impossible is because there is only one ?Miracle Core? in a body. Before ascendance, one is able to choose a ss. It was optional, however, people who don''t choose a ss don''t reach far and inferior to those who choose sses. By picking a ss, a person''s ?Miracle Invoker? is strengthened and upgraded to bepatible with the said ss, hence when picking the [Martial Artist] ss the ?Miracle Core? changes the color from white to red, picking [Sorcery] ss changes the color from white to blue, picking the [ult] changes white to purple. Since by effect on picking a ss the ?Miracle Core? is changed, other sses skills are much harder and time-consuming to use. It was not impossible to use other sses skills, however it will be much harder and less effective, so people often just learn the basic skills of other sses and focus on their respective ss. However, Rio has meta-knowledge, or in another term, future knowledge. He knows a particr ce where a Formless Seed is found. The Formless Seed allows one person to effectively make a second ?Miracle Core?, of course it''s uses are far more versatile and flexible, however making a second ?Miracle Core? was the best option so far. Two ?Miracle Cores? will make him effectively make use of magic more flexible by virtue of having many more options. However, as he is currently at the academy the Formless Seed will wait. First he has to practice the skills of sorcery, for that reason he brought several books and scrolls with him from the library. Calming down his excitement, he prepared to channel the spell. There was a false notion that Sorcerers need a staff to channel their spells. A staff is used because the medium is far more flexible and easier to use than using your body to channel. Closing his hands and pointing a finger upfront, he focused his mind into channeling the spell. "Agi." Swoosh! A ming ball appeared and struck to the wall. It didnt touch the wall however, as a blue invisible barrier obstructed it from being charred. None of it matter Rio though, for all what matters now is that he was able to cast magic. The spell he used was a beginner skill rated one star, meaning the lowest of low. Even if it is just the most miniscule magic in all of everything, Rio was ted. It was like a kid discovering new things. Calming down his innessant excitement, he looked over the pile of scrolls and books. Oh boy does he need to pull a ton of all nighters. However that was not a problem to him. Rio''s body is already [Rank C] the rank of people beyond the average. His stamina is over the top and is easily able to stay awake overnight. Chapter 4 4: Rest The night was still young. Rio just finished practicing the skills and powers earlier at the training room. He didnt expect that it would take him a week to properly use them. Thankfully sses will only start tomorrow. Time flies so fast, it was already a week since he transmigrated to this bizzarre world. Several nights of practice made him ept the fact that everything is real and he needs to get a grip. Maybe it was because constantly using magic enchances a person mind, or simply a week of time to think made him acknowledge the situation. Well, who knows? He was walking towards the library while carrying a box full of books and scrolls he borrowed. And it was light, suprisingly. Though that was probably because he was a Rank C Miracle Invoker. The strength of a person was above a veteran soldier if he reached Rank C, regardless of the ss. During the past week, he had discovered a lot of information about his new identity. He was apparently a Rank C Miracle Invoker in the path of Sorcerers. The library was located at the first floor corridor, it was at the corner end of the floor. Arriving at the library door, he put down the box he was carrying and took out the white badge in his chest pocket. The white badge featuring the mark of a staff, was more than a simple decoration. It''s an important identification chip used by the academy to be granted ess to certain rooms. It''s no exagerration to say that losing the badge is also losing your ess to Volund Academy. He slotted the white badge in the small slit in the door. The door opened and he took back his badge before walking inside. The inside of the library was vast. There were innumerable amount of books and shelves. Observing the inside of the library, he noticed there were a lot of people inside this time. Last time, there were only a few people, though that was probably because the celebration just ended and the students just moved in. A week of time should be able to make themfortably at the academy. He walked towards the librarian''s desk. However, while he was walking a student approached him. The student''s hair was blonde, indentical to his eyes that were shining golden. The young man''s mannerism was refined and elegant, alike a nobel. When Rio looked at his face he was reminded of a major character in the novel. "Good evening, professor." The student said with a smile and bowed slightly. "Good evening." Rio in respond nodded to his greeting. His eyebrows quirked upon seeing the student''s smile. The student''s smile at first looked fine and sincere. However experience told Rio there was more to that smile. He just couldn''t put his finger on it. After the greeting, the student left. Rio sighed. He had a guess on who that student is. The student was most likely Eugene Pendragon, a noble through and through. He was the sessor to the dukedom in the royalty. If he were to describe Eugene, it would be nigh - perfection. He had it all. Looks, talents, upbringing and mannerism. Even if he was a noble he didn''t abuse his power and status anywhere, he earned respect of the people by his attitude. But, Rio who had read the story knew that he wasn''t entirely perfect. He shook his head at that thought. He was quite tired, so he just continued walking towards the librarian''s desk. Frankly he didn''t want to think that much and justy dead in the bed. He would think about Eugene, or the novel at another time. He was just too tired at the moment. The constant practice of spells and review of topics over a week without sleep depleted his energy. The only reason he was able to focus continously even over several days is because of his enchanced mind for being a Rank C Miracle Invoker. He arrived at the librarians desk. He put down the box of books afterwards, he took out the white badge and gave it the librarian. The librarian was an old woman, her hair was ashen white and face littered with wrinkles. "You reviewed the basics? These books you all borrowed are entry level." The librarian said as she took the badge and scanned it. "Indeed," Rio nodded with a poker face, well he was technically not lying since he did review them. The only problem was it was his first time of learning them, "sses areing up, a thorough review should make me teach more efficiently." "How admirable," The librarian said, as she unboxed the books Rio brought. She continued, "Exactly what a teacher of Volund Academy should be." "You tter me, madame." Rio sighed. If only she knew that he didnt know a single thing about the topics and skills he borrowed. "Here," The librarian as she finished gave back the white badge, and bid farewell. "Come again, young man." Rio nodded in response and prepared to go back to his own room. If he ever wants to review basic topics or learn advance topics, then defely. However if he needed skills? It''s a long shot he will. ?Skills? are the byproduct of mankind''s experimentation and use of magic. To simplify, skills are left down by predecessors of the past that was good at magic. ? Agi, the beginner skill that is rated one star, has a background of skills that were first brought in the world. ?Skills? likewise are ranked. The number of stars tied into a skill corrtes to its rarity. A one star skill is asmon as junk. A five star skill is the rarest, it can even start a noble lineage and prolong it. It''s priceless, in essence. The category of skills are based on how easier or hard to learn a skill is. A beginner skill is as simple as it gets, an easy skill that could be used by any Miracle Invoker, majority of beginner skills are mostly useless, however some are priceless. A master level skill is as it''s name implies, a skill only learnable by master''s. There are better ces to get the skills that he wanted. Rio already thought of several other ces he would visit, however, as he is quite tired he would think more about it in the future. ¡ª He had never gotten in his room before. But he did know where it was. How? Well, the silver badge that he used for identification earlier also has another use. It had another function to use as a map incase a student or a teacher got lost or wanted to find something important. To use it you need to insert magic inside the badge. Well, that''s how he used it anyway. Truly, a convenient artifact, Rio thought as he continued to walk forward the hallways. While Rio was walking towards his room he saw a person silently standing in the hallways. The person seemed lost in thought, seemingly thinking of something. It was Samantha. Her figure still beautiful as always, noble and elegant, like a princess. He approached her, at the intent of greeting her. "Good evening, Ms. Samantha," Rio said as quirked his eyebrows while continuing, "You seem nervous." "Ah!" Samantha snapped out her daze in the sudden voice, she looked up and saw it was her colleague, Rio. She asked, embarassed "I-is it that obvious..?" "Are you nervous for tomorrow?" Rio asked as he nodded to the question. "Indeed," Samantha confessed, as she wondered quizically tilting her head, "You seem to not be nervous, Mr Rio" "I have experience in teaching," Rio said. It was true. Back in his previous life he did enter a few tutor sses just so he could have some money. He remembered one kid in particr. However those memories are something of the past, he shouldn''t dwell on them too much. "That''s wonderful!" Samantha said happily, as she asked "I guess this should be quite easy to you then?" "Far from it," He sighed, as he continued while staring at the sky. "Teaching from somewhere and teaching at Volund Academy are drastically different." "I guess that''s true," Samantha nodded, and noticed the dark circling eyebags in the Rio''s eyes. She frowned as she ask, "You seem to be out of sleep, am I somehow obstructing you from resting..?" "Ah, no." Rio shaked his head, as he replied, "I was about to sleep, and thought that I should atleast greet you. You did help me during the announcements." "I see, I must thank you for your help Mr. Rio, my nerves are quite calmed now." She nodded with a serious expression. She was too formal, he thought. Her mannerism and way of speaking are stringent. Not that he was particrly bothered by it. After that little conversation with Samantha, he bidded farewell and proceeded to get back in his room. ¡ª His room was big. If he were to describe it, it was like a hotel room but bigger. There was a kitchen at the far end of the room. A couch was situated in the middle of the room, facing a t screen television. The bedroom or sleeping quarters was behind the door at the left of the room. Rio in a hurry, removed his white coat and brown shoes. His body was quite well-defined. Not a body builder''s physique, but above average one. He opened the door to his bedroom, and just fell straight into the bed. The bed wasfortable. Just at the fall to the soft matress his body felt rxed. His headfortably sleeping in he pillow. He wanted this rest. He needed this rest. From the mind boggling revtions, constant practice of magic, review of topics to teach, he needed this silent recluse sleep where he doesnt think. He doesnt operate. Justfortablyying. Chapter 5 5: Mock Test (1) Arcuied just woke up and arrived at his ssroom. He looked up at the top of the door. A silver sign was ced, letters were carved into it forming ss 1 - A. He checked his arms, making sure there wasn''t anything on it. Earlier at midnight, just like always, he had a nightmare. He didnt know when it was gonna stop, and frankly he wanted it to end. He just had to endure more until he find the answers he was looking for. He sighed as he prepared himself. This was his starting point to everything. This is where everything will begin. And he isn''t gonna mess anything for that matter. He opened the door, and there he saw the inside. The inside was neither small nor big, just medium sized. Small desk and chairs were lined up inside the room. At the furthest front was the board and the teacher''s desk. He looked around the room and realized there weren''t that many people yet. Only a few notable one''s. His arrival most likely alerted them. One was a blonde student with elegant mannerism and handsome looks, he sat opposite facing a beautiful girl. The next was the beautiful girl, she had long ck hair and green eyes. Those green eyes were familiar to him but he just couldn''t put his finger on where he knew it. Looking at her smiling expression, it seems she didnt mind being apanied by the blonde student. And the next one was the oddest one. The man looked like he didnt have any kind of sleep, his eyes were drooping and there were dark eyebags below. He had a fashionable green hair and yellowish skin. ''Huh¡­I wonder if he got any rest¡­'' Arcuied thought as he prepared to walk to his desk, as he continued to walk, the blonde student greeted him, "Good morning, your name is¡­?" The blonde student greeted with a casual smile as he asked, "Good morning too, and it''s Arcuied," Arcuied responded as he turned to look at the student, and ask, "How about you?" "Eugene Pendragon." Eugene dered with a hint of pride, afterwards he introduced the girl he was talking to, "This is Amber Hong, daughter of the¡ª" "Stop that, you''re embarassing me," Amber said in annoyance as he pinched the skin of Eugene, which thetterughed it off, she looked at Arcuied and said, "My name is Amber Hong." "I¡­see." Arcuied muttered as he looked at both of them, they seemed like good friends. It wouldnt be a stretch if they knew each other before going to Volund Academy. The two proceeded to converse again, so Arcuied just walked to his desk and sit at his chair, suprisingly he was beside the odd student. As Arcuied sat he greeted the odd green-haired student, "Are you okay..? You seem out of sleep," Arcuied asked with a hint of concern. "Oh..Arcuied right? The name''s Xiao, Xiao Long. A genius of the generation," The green haired student, or Xiao Long, said drowsily as he continued, "Don''t worry about me, it''s norma¡­" The man suddenly stopped as his eyes closed. Arcuied wondered what happened until he heard him snore. He was asleep. Arcuied blinked, he shook Xiao''s hand, he decided to call him Xiao because it seemed convenient. "Oh¡­where was I..?" Xiao said as he woke up from his sudden sleep, he continued, "Oh right! Don''t worry, I just stayed overnight to make some dru¡ª, potions! Yes, potions!" You were going to say drugs weren''t you..? "Okay¡­" Arcuied just nodded to his weird mannerism. And then it came into him of what just Xiao said. He knows how to make potions?! If what he said is true then¡­he really may be a genius of generation.. Arcuied nced at the sleeping self-proimed genius. It seems his ssmates were another league. It wasn''t an understatement that this was the gathering of geniuses. Still, genius or not. It doesnt matter. As the answers he was looking for doesnt end with this tiny hub of geniuses. At that moment a loud announcement broke out in the academy. ¡ª Rio looked at the stack of papers he was holding while sipping his coffee. A morning coffee truly brings delight, he thought. The papers were information of students, ranging from their background, hobbies, and talents. The students were called by announcement to go to the public examination room. At any minute now they will arrive. He just recently learned of the news, but it seemed there''s going to be a mock test to rank each student''s potential. This school was crueler than he thought, it truly wasn''t a joke when they proimed they only teach geniuses. Rio shook his head on that, it didnt matter to him the slightest. He should just calmly observe for the day and rest. He already made several ns for the month to do. And so far, he wasn''t that impatient for it. Impatience brings nothing but shambles to his ns, and he sure don''t like not being in control. As he had the time to think, he figured out what he will do concerning the original plot and characters. Firstly, he would try to keep the plot as it''s original direction as best as he can, it''s the only advantage he has afterall. And secondly, regarding the characters, he would help them subtly, afterall the stronger they were earlier the less responsibilities he bear. So by that, he''s gonna operate subtly and hidden. At morning he''s a teacher, at night he''s another person. At this moment he heard the marching footsteps of students. The students entered the door. They were greeted by therge field. It was like an arena. Rio sat at the chairs above the field, he noted many of the students seem like they just woke up. As he was observing he heard an the person behind him click his tounge, "Tsk. Disorganized, Tardy, Unrefined." The fat man muttered. He seemed like a noble if his fancy clothes were anything to go by, he looked like the standard arrogant noble. The fat man noticed Rio staring at him. "What are you looking at? Is there anything you need?" The fat man asked rather rudely, Rio didnt mind it however, he just shaked his headpromising no conflict to the man. "No wonder you look familiar. You''re the branded weirdo from the first day, aint you?" The fat man said as he remembered the circting rumor in the staff, "W-weirdo..? Where did you hear that from, uh, Mr. Whackermoley." Rio said stuttering, suprised that there was suddenly have a rumor regarding him. It seems his ns of staying unknown is falling off each moment. "Call me, Bourgham," Bourgham said in part annoyance to being called his surname, he continued "Panicking in the first day¡­taking entry level basics and reviewing them over several days¡­atleast, that''s what I heard." "That is indeed true, Mr. Bourgham." Rio sighed, unable to deny the rumors. It seems staying lowkey as possible is going out of drains every moment. Bourgham lost interest in him after that short conversation and proceeded to look at the students that were lined up below. Rio also put aside his thoughts and looked below. As someone who has future knowledge, he easily knows who are worthy of investment and will reach far in the future. He also easily spotted the main cast of characters. Though, Rio looked at a student and got lost in thoughts. The student has a short snowy white hair, and shining gold eyes. He was the main character of the novel, Arcuied. Even thought he was the main character of the novel, he was the most mysterious of them all. His actions were often contradictory, and his thoughts were messy. At that moment, a loud voice resounded in the room. The voice was amplified by some kind of magic, as it easily reached the whole room. "Good morning! Good morning!" A man with a bright smile walked inside the room, his hands pping. The man was tall and look middle aged, he has short brown hair and thin sses covering his eyes. His voice awakened most of the drowsy students, and a particr green haired student was in shock of the sudden loud voice. All the eyes were directed at the man. "Do you students know why we called you here?" The man with his bright smile asked, he was noting the people that were listening as he observed the crowd. And he saw a blonde student raise his hand, "You there!" "A test, I presume?" Eugene answered casually. "Indeed. Your reason?" The man asked, raising his eyebrows. An answer is merely a guess without reason. To formte a proper observation, you need to have an answer backed up with reasons. A guess in a battlefield is fatal. "Ah, I just deduced it by the fact that this is mostly a public room used for test and there are several teachers seated above. By that, only an idiot would not realize it." Eugene said as he stretched his arms forward. "Indeed. It is a test, an important test at that matter. That is why I, Professor Guile, am here." Guile announced as he took a step forward with his hands spread, "This is a mock test to measure a student''s potential. While sure, you kids are talented people reviewed by the staff and trainees, we need to make sure our investment to your future isn''t gonna return badly. To that, we employed a system of measuring potential." "And, why is this important perhaps? ...Ths will decide your stay in the school." Guile said as he walked around and flicked a drowsy'' student''s forehead, "Those at the most bottom rung of potential are¡­going to be expelled. No strings attached, expelled. Whether you''re a civilian or a noble, if the academy deems your potential to be bottom rung dogshit, then... pack your bags, tie your shoes and get on the bus¡ªyou''re going back to home." Indeed a cruel procedure, but a good way to put motivation in the students, Rio thought as he observed the state of some students. The mediocre one''s had sweat over their face''s. Several notable one''s had calm expressions, as if the announcement had nothing to do with them. Eugene and Amber were calm as an ocean. Xiao was thoughtful, thinking of something. Arcuied just steeled his resolve. Chapter 6 6: Mock Test (2) Rio was looking forward to this test for many reasons. The primary reason is that he''s finally going to witness an actual real timebat. The secondary is, to observe Arcuied, and the other characters. Each reason is as important as the other to him. "Without further a do, let''s start." Guile announced as he snapped his finger. As he snapped his finger, arge stage rose from the ground. The stage was big, a transparent two-way mirror covered it. It probably has to do with the thing they were going to put in it, Rio thought. The spectacle didn''t end there, at the various corners of the field containers filled with different weapons magically appeared. Most likely imbued with a skill that causes it to be hidden, Rio thought as he observed the events below. "Go get the weapons you want!" Guile said as he took a step back and observe the students find their weapons. Some haven''t gotten over the suprise yet, and notable one''s already moved to get the weapons. While others were busy with their own things, Guile exited the room. Regarding weapons, Rio was undecided at the matter. He didnt know what kind of weapon he wanted, and haven''t decided about it until now. des would be ineffective at long rangebat. Bows were not even an option, he didn''t have that great of an aim. Guns were inefficient at best. He wants to find a perfect weapon that can be used at anybat. Well, as luck would have it. There was an artifact that can operate as he wants. The problem is, the ce was too far away from the moment. It would take several weeks of time to go there. At that dillema, he decided to put aside that matter and think about it after getting The Formless Seed. It seems most of his problems stem from the fact he didn''t have the freedom to move as a teacher. Rio sighed at that. At this moment, the student he was watching finally moved. ¡ª Arcuied stood as he looked at his fellow ssmates. Many were panicking and undecided. Then again, the mock test was an immediate suprise to the whole student body. But he was different from them, he already knew what weapon he wanted. He was walking to go there right now. As he approached the container, he held onto the handle of the weapon. The weapon was a long, straight de with a sharp edge on both of its sides. It was a Sword. As he held the handle, coincidentally a hand also held another weapon from the container. Arcuied turned up to look at whose hand was it. To his suprise, it was Eugene. "What a coincidence," Eugene chirped casually as he held the long shaft of the weapon with a pointed steel head the end. He took it out, and only now did Arcuied had a good look of the weapon. It was a Spear. The spear stood beside Eugene, making Eugene seem more elegant. Eugene noticed the weapon Arcuied was holding, and nodded seemingly think of something, "What?" Arcuied asked with a serious tone, noticing the odd nod of the man. "It was nothing," Eugene said as he waved his hands off, indicating it wasn''t anything important. He asked innocently "The sword fits iyou, but do you even have the skill to use it..?" "More skilled than your spear waving." Arcuied rebutted with a non-chnt tone as he moved away without a word. Eugene''s eye twitched at that remark. It seems the man had quite confidence in himself. Eugene just shook his head and tried to find the person he was looking for. At some corner of the field he spotted her. Amber Hong. He hurriedly walked over where Amber Hong was. Arcuied didn''t know what was the problem with Eugene, but experience told him the best way to shut off a snarky remark is to rebutt it and leave immediately. Arcuied arrived at his position earlier, now that he has a weapon all he needs to do is wait until he gets called. Speak of the devil, an announcement rang loud inside the room. "No. 1, Arcuied, enter the stage and proceed go be examined. Please bring your wanted weapon." Arcuied blinked in suprise to that. He didnt know he was going to be first. Well, it''s not like it matters that much to him. Being first norst doesnt change anything. He patted his chest as he prepared himself. He walked over the stage, noticing that all the stares were directed at him. He even saw Eugene smirking at him and Xiao giving a thumbs up. Arcuied shook his head and ignore the stares. This was an important moment. This was the turning point, or in essence, whether he can stay in this academy or not. As he slowly walked inside the arena, the entrance closed abruptly. Arcuied brandished his sword while waiting for the opponent he was going to face. At that moment a loud roar resounded, the students, Arcuied include looked around to find where the roar came from. Then, therge door was kicked open. Guile entered with a leash on his hand, tightly dragging arge beast that was resisting. He dragged therge beast inside the arena, afterwards he took off the leash and the beast remained a still, cautiously looking over the room. "Heh, this is the big boy you''re going to fight!" Guile said as he walked over the door and prepared to exist, continuing, "I call it, Serbius! You either knock this little guy out or you get knocked out! Credits to the Recreational Club for this monstrous abomination!" Arcuied looked at the monster. The monster can be described in two words, strong, and monstrous. It looked like a chimera, having the same features and looks. A lion''s body and head, a snake part of it''s tail, and vicious ck wings like a bat. "This¡­power," Eugene muttered with a hint of fascination, years of training from the noble house made him adapt to different kinds of magical radiation and sense their appropriate rank, "It''s Rank D.." Eugene sighed, it seems like this newbie ssmate of him isn''t going tost long. Every student in this Academy are atleast Rank E. Maybe if it was him fighting that abomination he would have atleast a chance. "Not only Rank D. It''s a Chimera." Amber quipped from the side, she knew many kinds of monsters. As the heir of a famous guild leader, the various monsters of wild were taught to her at a young age. Even she, doesnt stand much a chance againts that abomination. While every student was sighing at the their fellow ssmate''s inevitable fate, Rio at the chairs above observe intently without blinking. He knew that Arcuied can beat the monster. However, he was measuring his chance againts it. He was far stronger than the monster, that''s for sure. Butbat experience? Virtually none. Rio gravely sighed, and wanted the weekends to arrive quickly for one of his objectives to initiate. Arcuied ignored the stares the students were giving and just brandished his sword. Pointing it to the monster. At the moment Guile left the arena, the test started. He moved, imbuing magic to his feet and applying skill. He arrived almost instantly at the monster. He thrusted the sword in the side. However, as he was going to thrust the sword, he sense immediate danger. The snake tailshed out to him, forcing Arcuied to abandon his offense and revert to defense. He checked whether the monster had any blindspots. His eye caught one thing. The monster was blind at the other eye, using that as an advantage he sped up as he ran to the left side. Swoosh! He shed his sword horizontally, as the wings of the lion aggresively p and blew him away from the sheer force of the wind. However it wasn''t all for naught. He felt it, his sword touched the skin of the monster. But, it wasn''t just the monster that was wounded. Him too. His skin tore up from the wind. He looked at part of the left side of the face, there was a graze. Blood fell down as the wound opened up. Arcuied had a skill that he barely used in public, however this was an exception. It was <