he Arcadia Grand Academy of Mysticism was more than just a place of learning—it was a battlefield of influence, secrets, and hidden power struggles. Among its many organizations, clubs held a significant role, shaping the flow of information and student influence.
Lucian, ever the tactician, had joined the Reportage Club—not because he sought to be a journalist, but because it gave him access to classified information. The club handled everything from student records to political affairs within the Academy and beyond. News could be manipulated, rumors could be planted, and knowledge could be gained. It was the perfect tool for someone like him.
Despite his grander ambitions, Lucian still had to maintain appearances as a student. His daily schedule became a careful balancing act:
Morning:
Wake up before dawn and meditate to refine his mana flow.Have a light breakfast in the grand dining hall, surrounded by noble heirs whispering about Academy politics.Attend lectures on arcane history, combat magic, and celestial theory, where he analyzed how humans had misinterpreted magic over the centuries.
Afternoon:
Visit the Reportage Club, where he submitted reports on Academy events—always with subtle alterations to shape public perception in his favor.Engage in controlled sparring sessions, ensuring he didn't reveal too much of his power.Study ancient magic tomes he had "borrowed" from restricted sections of the library.
Evening:
Under the cover of night, Lucian roamed the Academy grounds, investigating leads on the Forest of the Forsaken Maw and the hidden chambers beneath the Academy.He tested the boundaries of security, mapping out areas where powerful artifacts might be hidden.
One morning, Lucian arrived at the Grand Lecture Hall where Alistair Virellian was already standing at the front, his silver-threaded robes flowing as he observed the arriving students with an intense gaze.
As the room settled, Alistair's voice rang out, powerful yet calm.
"Today, we discuss the Mid-Term Examination that going to be held 6 months from now, an event that will determine where you stand in the hierarchy of this Academy."
Murmurs spread among the students. Some showed excitement, others unease.
Alistair continued, "This exam is not merely about grades. It is a test of your talent, intellect, and adaptability. Fail, and you will fall into obscurity. Succeed, and doors will open for you—doors that remain shut to the weak."
He waved his hand, and a glowing diagram appeared in the air, detailing the three phases of the exam.
"Phase One: Theoretical Knowledge"
A written test covering mana theory, ancient magic, and battle tactics.The purpose was to assess a magician's understanding of core principles.
"Phase Two: Combat Evaluation"
A dueling assessment, where students would face opponents chosen by the Academy."Strength alone will not carry you through," Alistair said coldly. "Tactics, precision, and the ability to read your enemy will determine victory."
"Phase Three: Dungeon Exploration"
A team-based trial, where students would venture into the Academy's underground chambers to retrieve a Mana Crystal guarded by enchanted defenses."The environment will not be forgiving. Only those who can adapt and strategize will emerge victorious."
A ripple of anticipation passed through the hall.
Lucian remained impassive, though his thoughts were already racing. A dungeon beneath the Academy? That meant another path to uncovering the Tenebris Heart.
Alistair's eyes swept across the room before landing on Lucian, as if sensing his thoughts. "Prepare well. Your future in this Academy depends on it."
During one of his nightly explorations, Lucian followed an unnatural energy pulse beneath the Academy.
He discovered a hidden dungeon, its entrance disguised within an abandoned section of the underground training grounds. The air was thick with dark mana, the walls lined with ancient symbols—signs that something immensely powerful lay below.
This… Lucian thought, his eyes gleaming in the darkness. This leads to the Tenebris Heart.
His journey to power had just taken a decisive turn.