34
Reaching for the Stars
After escorting Melody to Zeke's dojo we had some time to kill. My brother Max excused himself to attend business before going to Mandy's so he so split from us. My guess is had to go to the mages guild to send a message through to Abbot about the intel I gave him but perhaps it was something else entirely.
“Now that its just us girls......... Shopping time!” Siena gleefully said right as Max left.
“Yes I agree too. We have been studing non-stop I need to get my mind on something else for a bit. We have some time to kill anyways. I can always use more cute outfits and I am sure that Kara can too!” Skyler quickly agreed to Siena' proposal. Libby as usual was indifferent.
“Do I not have any say in this? Skyler how are you going to pay for your stuff last time I checked you didn't have much gold.” How is this happening aren't I the noble? Well I suppose technically Skyler and Siena are nobles too. But shouldn't my say be final since I am the boss here?
“Kara come on it will be fun! Anyways your father told you to take care of me, I would assume that includes financially.” The old man did give me a couple hundred gold for things like this but that is like drops of water in the bucket. Skyler has an expensive taste when it comes to food, clothes, and cute things. I suppose I shouldn't get to greedy after working as an elite assassin in Zyrus for a while I have amassed a small fortune so money isn't the issue here. Its just the principle! I will have to start calling her moocher-chan instead of slacker-chan.
I suppose I should have foresaw this. I wonder why I don't have the will to protest a small shopping trip. I too enjoy shopping but just not for attire like the others. Perhaps I am just nervous about seeing Mandy again, what if she acts similar to the way Claire has treated me. If that were to happen I don't know if my heart could take it...
We went shop to shop looking at and trying on various outfits, well at least Siena and Skyler did. I wont say it wasn't enjoyable but the whole time they were trying to get me to try on outfits as well. Its just after working in a tailoring shop and being forced to model many outfits as well as being a princess and having maids play dress up with me as well. I have sort of become numb to to this sort of thing, in fact, I have become annoyed by the whole process. I would however give my opinion on certain outfits using my knowledge gained from working for Mistress Jennifer. Which was welcome input for the others and even surprised them I could pick up such small things about certain outfits.
Finally after loading up poor Libby with a mountain of bags we decided it was time to head to Mandy's. Mandy of course is my older sister who is married to the first prince of Jabel Felix Moon. They lived in the north part of town which nobles and wealthy merchants lived. This part of town was a definite separation economically. All the houses were bigger, there was in increase in city guard and everyone here seemed to be well off.
“Stop thief!” A voice said out loud. Looking over to where the voice was I could see a commotion going down. Unconsciously I started to sprint over to where this was all going down not thinking it could be a trap. Sitting on the ground was a distressed lady. She had on somewhat fancy clothes, she looked like she probably lived in this part of town. Lots of people were surrounding her as she pleaded for help.
“Please someone that thief stole my necklace. It is all I have to remember my mother with!” The poor lady was crying so bad. I can't help myself I will track down this thief.
“What way did they go cutey?” Someone next to me in the group surrounding her asked before I could.
When I turned to look at the person whom asked I was astonished. Jet black shoulder length hair, with an amazing athletic figure, and her face was gorgeous too. Her voice exuded confidence, and her breathing and stance were both top notch clearly trained in martial arts. The most mysterious of her features however were her eyes. Her eyes were different colors, the one on the left was a light sky blue and her eye on the right was an amber gold color. I remember about this condition it is called heterochromia. She wore a Mahouren uniform with a decorative patch over her sleeve.
“He went that way!” She pointed south towards the shopping district. Her face was beet red I think from being called cutey.
“Ring of Hestius I call upon you. Unlock.” The girl's right hand started to glow, more accurately the ring on her right hand began to glow. What was this power? It is an amazing amount of magic to even someone of my level. Around her body magical power began to circulate around in the form of Golden flames. The golden flames are now condensing into wings on her back. As soon as that happened the girl shot off like a rocket into the sky. I instantly felt the pain of jealousy since I too have wings but am not allowed to use them.
Stopping abruptly in the air she took a second then raised her right hand as she was casting a spell. I couldn't hear a chant but I could tell it was lightning based spell. A streak of lightning shot from her hand towards the south. Amazing pin point accuracy from that far away? After casting this spell she summoned some sort of creature near her. No this was a familiar. It took the form of a bird of fire, a phoenix. She sent it out towards the location that her spell landed. Incredible I think that is an extremely rare familiar. Perhaps is a legendary familiar. The girl slowly began to descend back down on our location. By the time she reached the ground her familiar had returned carrying the thief who was unconscious from the spell. Just your run of the mill pickpocket who thought this area would be worth the risk with the increased guard.
As the thief was dropped by the flaming bird's talons the girl reached into the thief's pocket and pulled out an ornate necklace. In tears the woman thanked her wholeheartedly. I was in so much shock of the whole event that I hadn't even looked at her status. Who was this beautiful multicolored eyed girl not that much older then me. I pulled up her status as she walked away, having called the guards to apprehend the thief for the city dungeon. What I saw took all the air out of my stomach.
“Kara who was that ridiculous girl? Is she really a student at Mahouren? I saw the uniform but that spell just now was insane and her familiar was strong too.” Skyler asked as my companions had caught up to the scene. I went to open my mouth but one of the onlookers said it before me.
“So that was Sonya Lionblade the student council president of Mahouren? Wow she is amazing! She has won the student mage tournament 3 years running.” The girl I just saw was none other the daughter of Darius Lionblade and she was stronger then me by my estiamtion.
“Lionblade? Isn't that the beastking's last name.” Skyler wasn't the best at remembering these kinds of things.
“No his last name is Lionheart. Lionblade is the family name of the Rendillian royalty.” Siena clarified to Siena.
“She is Darius's daughter?!” Skyler now asks shocked.
“Yes I had no idea that someone like that was the president. I could of swore she winked at me before she left.” I couldn't 100% confirm this last tidbit but I am pretty sure it happened.
“Well we better get to Mandy's to get cleaned up.” Quickly we collected ourselves and headed Mandy and Felix's residence.
The mansion was not as flashy as I was expecting. Felix Moon was the first prince here in this country. However Jabel's monarchy was a lot different then other countries. While the royal family were well respected and considered this counties representatives at official events. However they had little power in comparison to other countries monarchies even in comparison to my own family's monarchy.
The majority of the power in this country was held by both by the nobles and Mahouren itself. While the mobilized army was not very large no one would dare to invade because if the mages of Mahouren were to get involved it would become a conquest that would be unreasonable to achieve.
Though it is not as grand as I had imagined it was still a mansion and it is well guarded. All element Magic Barrier, level 60 guards, a butler stronger then the level 60 guards, and maids almost as strong as the guards too.
“Princess Kara, your sister Lady Moon has been expecting you. Please this way.” The butler looked on the surface just to be a regular old man with a monocle. But after looking at his stats I found he was a level 78 his class was Monk a fighter who specializes in hand to hand combat. After leading us inside a maid came up to our group.
“Your sister has requested to talk to you in private. Follow me and if your servants would be so kind and follow Mia here.”After seeing me nod in favor of the situation Libby Skyler, and Siena were led down one of the two halls in the house.
“Princess Kara this way if you would be so kind.” Very butler like he escorted me to another part of the mansion. Soon we reached a descending stairway. After reaching a underground hall we reached a door. Causally knocking and receiving approval to enter the butler opened the door. The inside down here was sort of like a workshop. I could see enchanting, alchemy, inscription, among other equipment.
“Your Grace I have brought your sister Princess Kara as you have asked.” He said bowing out of respect as he entered. I finally got a good chance to look at my sister for the first time in a while. Her features hadn't changed much, perhaps she was a bit more curvy now. However she had a different kind of aura now. Not just one of a royalty. No this was an aura of a first rate mage and her eyes laid upon me like a predator on with its eyes on its prey. Totally fixated on me.
“Thank you Ollie if you wouldn't mind I would like to talk to my sister in private.” Very cold like she dismissed her butler.
“Excuse me then.” Once again bowing the butler departed.
“Maa.....nnn....ddd.....yyy” Was all I could utter out as she slowly walked up to me still having yet to blink once.
Click..........Click............Click...........Click
All you could hear were her footsteps one at a time. Gradually getting slightly louder as she got closer and closer until finally. She was right in front of me. Somehow I was petrified I had been waiting for this moment for so long. But her attitude and aura right now I feel as though she is going to treat me and in the same manner that Claire has so far. It is weird to say it but that fear is far worse then I have ever felt before even after facing death several times now.
Still looking coldly at me her hand swung towards my face. Normally such a slow blow would have been easily dodged but right now the fear in my body was so much that it was impossible for me.
Smack! A slap on the right side of my face the physical pain was nothing compared to the emotional pain I was feeling. Mandy is going to be this way too..............
Having slapped me in face her stone cold face quickly turned to one of tears and emotion. She quickly hugged me tight as if she never wanted to let go. Crying into my shoulder. I suppose I deserved that, with this embrace she is letting me know all is forgiven. My soul is truly lifted.
“You idiot! We missed you so much!” The fear that I felt from earlier started to wash away from Mandy's tears now dripping down my back. I couldn't help it these tears must have been contagious because the usually stoic me started to tear up too.
“Please forgive me big sister!” I gripped her with an equal embrace I know that my decisions have caused emotional wounds to my family and it weighs heavily upon me.
It took a few minutes to clear the waterworks but finally we both collected ourselves. Mandy pulled out a chair and we were finally able to sit down and discuss matters.
We spent the next hour or so catching up. Since I had been constantly writing to her she more of less earch was in space-time magic, currently it is possible to store things in spacial pockets. Like with a spacial ring. However the transfer of anything living would fail, she theorized that was because the space in there was a vacuum. Living things cannot survive in a vacuum so the spell wouldn't allow it. However if there was she was aware of what I had been up to. I was more interested in what she was up to. Her most recent resa way to make a new spell that had air and light inside it. It might become possible to overcome this.
“So it seems you have intentions to attend Mahouren with your friend Skyler” Mandy asked.
“Yes that is the plan. Hopefully we will be able to room together. I don't know how the housing situation here works.” I answer question truthfully
“Quite confident aren't you? I would expect nothing less. As for housing no special accommodations for royalty also your roommates are assigned at random.....well we do keep separate dorms for both boys and girls of course. Servants have there own quarters as well and may come and go as they please” Mandy explained to me.
“Come on there has to be something you can do this girl will fail out without me pushing her if she even manages to get in!” If I am not her roommate it is going to cause issues probably.
“Well there is one thing. Whoever is the top student of a grade gets there own personal suite in the Student council dorms. These rooms are much larger then the other rooms and are really sought after. A person with one of these rooms is allowed a roommate if they desire it. Oh yeah also this student council dorm has a built in hot-spring inside it. I was pretty much in this dorm my whole time there I must say it pays to be talented” So it seems here at Mahouren the most talented are rewarded several luxuries.
“So how are student council members as well as class representatives chosen?” It is obvious that this should be my goal even though having to do student council stuff will get annoying.
“Well here at Mahouren there is a points system called the Magus rating. While the exact formula isn't known except to certain faculty it is calculated upon three different criteria. First it rates you academic achievements, this can range from test scores, to research, and everything in between. The second rating is your combat abilities. Keep in mind this rating is not purely based upon your own strength, so if you are an enchanter or some kind of class that buffs other party members it takes that into consideration as well. The last rating is your achievements in extracurricular activities as well as any other things not encompassed by the first two ratings.” She finished her explanation.
“So the student with the top Magus score in a grade is the representative?” I seem to understand the process now.
“Yes now you are probably wondering how the student council is determined.” She knew my next question before I asked it.”
“Well unlike the representatives the student council is selected by the president and vice president of the student council. These two positions are given to the winner and runner up in the School Mage Tournament respectively.” It seems the school puts a lot effort in this tournament to make it popular.
“It seems sort of irresponsible to put someone in power simply because of their combat strength. Being good at fighting has no bearing on whether they are good at leading or organizing things.”
“Well that's just how it has always been. The president gets to appoint secretaries, treasurers, and disciplinary squad members. So there responsibility is more to supervise the other members along with the vice president. The founder wanted there to be serious battles between the top students to create rivalrys in the student mage tournament”
“Thank you for explaining all that. It is probably time we head to dinner.” I say after my tummy grumbled embarrassingly.
“Hey Kara I never thanked you for helping out those kids whom were enslaved here. I figured out what you did back then.” I suppose that incident drove me to write her letters all these years because if I hadn't she would have wasted time searching for me.
“It was nothing.” I humbly replied.
After the meeting with Mandy finished it was dinner time. My dutiful maid Libby had already picked out an outfit based on what would be appropriate for such a dinner. It was a simple white blouse and black skirt, I must admit not having to pick out clothes is a welcome change from before. I want to look good but I hate wasting time picking stuff out so this situation with Libby is ideal.
Dinner was somewhat interesting I found out that Felix's little brother was a student at Mahouren a second year. In fact he was the freshman representative but someone overtook his position going into the second year. After talking about the representatives and student council I found that many of the representatives were nobility. I suppose it shouldn't be surprising as wealthy families were able to nurture their children's talents with better resources. However the president Sonya had selected a few commoners to work on the student council which upset some of the nobles at Mahouren. It seems she also has only appointed girls to work on the student council with her. Many joked that she had her own harem there.
Finishing dinner, we all got ready for bed. Mandy was kind enough to leave a couple books in my bedchamber that she knew I would enjoy. Sleep came quickly and with it weird dreams again.
“A black rose can only bloom in complete darkness. A white rose can only bloom under the full
sun. A red rose blooms under your fallen enemies but a golden rose......That can only bloom fearlessly
reaching for the stars.”
These words echoed in my head as I woke up early the next day. The voice seemed to be that of Tiamat. Was Tiamat giving me a riddle? Her priest told me once 'A black rose can only bloom in complete darkness.' and I have had dreams of the black rose and it honesty it was more of a nightmare then a dream. But the rest of this is all new. White roses there not really that uncommon I think it is the yang to the black rose's yin metaphorically here in this poem. Red roses are of the same color of blood so I think that too was another metaphor. But a golden rose that doesn't exist here in nature, only a yellow rose.
Was 'golden' a reference to me? It's the only possible conclusion I can come up with. Golden is often used to describe someone extremely talented. My last name is Rosewood, and not to mention my hair is a golden blonde. It is the only logical conclusion. Also being Tiamat it is also might be a jab at her brother Bahumut who wanted to make me the golden knight his champion. Hmm I guess I will just have to take it in stride. Reach for the Stars? I wonder if that's another metaphor?
“Princess Kara its Libby.” A tentative knock on the door.
“Please enter.” I say still naked well almost naked I keep my daggers with me when I sleep.
“I have washed your underwear and socks for you.” She was holding my undergarments both white and my two black knee socks. The outfit itself was made by Jennifer-sama to never need to be washed.
“Libby do you think it would be dumb not to hold back today?” I ask I honestly. I was planning to hold back somewhat because I have enough interest on me as it is.
“Honestly if people were to see what Princess Kara is capable it would cause a bit of a commotion. However this might be a good thing, students will be less likely to approach you. As far as becoming a target, I don't think there is any concern. The only country we are potentially at war with is Rendil and the King seems infatuated by you so an assassination would be unlikely. I doubt any kidnapping attempt would work either based upon your abilities and the security here.” She paused for a second.
“Also if you are the top student during the entrance exam you will get a room in the Astral Dorms. You can be close to your sister Claire.” Libby must have read up on this place. When she said astral my heart skipped a beat. So Tiamat was telling me to go all out today and secure a spot in those dorms? Would I really need to go all out to secure a spot?
Finishing getting ready with Libby's help I gathered up with everyone as we headed towards Mahouren. Skyler didn't say a word all morning. Even at breakfast, she seemed rested but was unusually focused odd usually she is a blabbermouth, it seems like she is taking this seriously. What a welcome change! Now if only we could get Siena to take things seriously she is still half asleep. I guess I will get serious too, time to reach for the stars.
We left early but there still is a large crowd in front of us. The front gates of Mahouren were open and there were atleast a dozen scribes writing information down. It was quite cramped here and most of the kids were my age. Some of them had servants with them too they were probally nobles. Mandy had to help with the entrance exam so she went ahead of us and wished us good luck. For almost an hour we stood in this mass of people slowly making our way to the front.
“Lara?” A voice called out, I didn't recognize the voice so I turned around. A young boy in fancy clothes was staring at me. It seemed he had a guard with him as well. Did I know him? Also he called me Lara this is very concerning!
“You don't recognize me do you...” I totally didn't recognize him! I quickly cheat using analyze on his status. Prince Ryalith Swansong of the Calipis Empire.
“Shhhh....... of course I remember you prince Ryalith. We met in Zyrus after the Summit tournament right? I was pretending to be an elf and won the tournament. Keep that stuff that happened a secret please, Lara was just my alias at the time. My real name is Kara Rosewood.” I need to keep Lara and Kara separate. He seems like the type who can keep a secret.
“Rosewood.......like in the royal family of Termain? So that would make you a pr..pri. pri.. princess?!” He was stunned and I can't say I blame him. His cheeks even blushed a bit. He probably never imagined I held such a status.
You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.
“So you are going to apply to Mahouren? But you are already such an amazing fighter, wouldn't you be better training that instead?” A reasonable question but he doesn't realizes my potential to use magic yet.
“It has always been a dream of mine to use magic and this place is the best to train me with that. I won't get another chance to enter this place.” I say half pay attention to who else might be lurking in the crowd here.
“Next in line” A voice calls out oh that's me.
“Do you think that we could sometime you know ummm uhhh....” He started say something but lost the courage halfway.
“Well see ya around Prince Ryalith. Good luck to you and do your best.” My turn had finally came at the registration desk.
“Papers?” It was older looking mage probably a faculty member or alumni. I handed him my papers. He looked over the for a minute and finally wrote something down. Handing me back my papers along with a number with a pin, the number was 133. I kind of wanted to add a 7 to the end but I bit my lip and held back. I tried to pin it to my uniform but of course a pin stood no chance against Jennifer's embersilk uniform I had to instead pin it to my cloak.
“Princess Kara Rosewood, good luck today...... Next” It was Skyler's turn to register. Shocked after looking at her papers the mage finally wrote her name and and gave her sticker number 134. After registering we were followed the crowd down the road from the gate.
Within the gate of Mahouren was pretty much a whole other city. Think of it like the Vatican back in my old world. There were new shops, art, architecture. Whereas outside the city everything is sprawled out in here the building stretched vertically to make the most use of the space. When you look from afar all you see is the school building itself and maybe the arena that is dwarfed by its brother the coliseum outside the school grounds. You don't realize all the shops, dorms, and houses here. Last time I came I didn't really appreciate it as much.
Following the crowd for a few more minutes we traverse even more space navigating down a several streets in the process. Finally we were emptied out into the large courtyard in front of the actual school. For a while we just waited here, waiting for everyone to finish registering. After what seemed like forever a familiar person came out on top of the steps of the school looking down upon us it was Elise the headmaster here. She was a beautiful elf, it seems she hasn't aged at all.
“Welcome everyone to the Mahouren school of Magic entrance exam. Here at Mahouren our goal is simply to help train and nurture youths into become elite mages. Unfortunately we can't take in everyone as our capacity is limited so the spots available are given out based on current ability and potential. Wealth or status does not matter, those who have trouble paying for tuition will be accommodated for. This is a core principle left by the founder. An education is the greatest investment you will ever make. Ok now on to business we have several tests for you to take to determine both your current aptitude for magic as well as your potential to use magic. To speed things up we will split you all up into 4 groups and perform each test then rotate the groups and complete a different test.
The first test is over your mana. All aspects of your mana are considered and ranked from E to A and even S ranking. Don't worry if your mana score is E rank it doesn't mean you fail by any means. At your age the average rank is D for the entrance exam so that would mean you are slightly below average and would be able to make it up on the other 3 tests.
The second test is the written test. It covers basic knowledge an aspiring mage should probably know. Anyone caught cheating will be immediately removed and fail the entrance exam regardless of their performance on the other tests.
The third test is the practical. We will test your use of spells. You will given an opportunity to showcase your abilities to the examiner. Whether it be in a mock battle, use of healing magic, or use of some sort of enhancement magic as well as whatever else you can do. Basically your goal is to impress the examiner in some fashion.
The final test is the interview. One of our faculty will ask you several questions and you will have an opportunity to ask us some questions as well. This is an important part of the entrance exam so please take it seriously.
Ok I will now cast a spell that will randomize the groups. “ She started chanting some spell but it was too faint for me to pick up on the language. After she finished light started to materialize on the numbers we had. I pulled my cloak around mine to see what color I had gotten mine had turned blue, Skyler's had turned red. There were also people with yellow and green.
“Those who have the color green follow Mr. Kline here. Those whom color is Red follow Mr. Balzur. Those who have yellow follow Mrs. Moon. Those who have blue will follow me. Once again good luck to you all.” When she pointed Mrs. Moon I realized this was actually Mandy it took me a second to realize that she was actually Mandy Moon now, Rosewood was now here maiden name. Damn its too bad I couldn't be in her group oh well.
Me along with the rest of the 'blues' followed the headmistress. As she led us inside of the side building on the school grounds. It seemed like this place a testing ground for magical devices. In the middle of this building was a peculiar device set up. At the bottom there was some type of orb and it was connected to a set of 5 transparent pipes the pipes went straight up and had another pipe perpendicular jet off from it about 75% the way to the top. The horizontal pipes all converged into another pipe this one was much wider then the others going up there were markers E, D, C, B, A, and S.
“So the first test today is a test to determine your how good your mana capabilities are. So when we are looking at your mana capabilities. The first quality is your mana pool which is how big your pool of mana is. The second quality is your mana concentration this is how pure your mana is. The third quality is your mana control basically this is how well you can accurately put mana in when trying to only use a certain amount. Next we look at your mana output which is how much mana you can use at one time. Finally we look at your mana recovery which is how quickly you can regenerate mana.” She points to the device in the middle of the room.
“This is the device is known as the mana crucible. It is a test that encompasses all of the 5 qualities we are looking for to give a standardized grade. If you get accepted here this is a test you will perform at the end of each semester. So when taking this test you will transfer mana from the sphere into these 5 pipes. Each pipe can be given mana individually through the sphere or at the same time depending how you transfer the mana. However at a lower level it more optimal to close off the flow to all but one or two of the pipes by pulling the levers down on the side. To prevent yourself from accidentally wasting mana as you will not need to use them with your current mana pools
The fluid inside these pipes is filled with a special element that changes to a light blue when it has mana in it. Every time you pass mana through one of these tubes you can see it pass through. When it reaches the intersection it will change course and head off towards the collection tube. Any excess mana will be lost at this intersection so this is where your mana control abilities come into play. The exact amount of mana needed is the same as a level 1 fireball in case you were wondering. The test is to see how much mana you get in the collection tube in one minutes time. Each student will gets two tries and we will take the best of the two tries. Feel free to help yourself to any mana potions between your attempts, the alchemy club was so kind to have prepared a huge tank for today. Ok the first one up is number 1 Orston Gam.” Her long explaination was finally over.
One by one I watched as student did this test. Even with using only one tube most students still ran out of mana well before the 1 minute mark. Like she said earlier most people here are getting D or E ranks, only one of the 30 some people I have seen has even close to C level. Looking at the tank it seems the amount of mana at each level increases almost exponentially. So the amount of mana to get to C from D was probably ten fold what it took from E to D. There may have been a singular letter grade but after each attempt Elise wrote down the exact height of mana in the tube. I think the letter system was just there to motivate people to try hard.
“Number 133 Kara Rosewood” I walked forward I had been wearing my cloak the whole time and keeping my presence to a minimum just so I could avoid talking to people. Yes I know I am anti-social.
“Rosewood? We had a princess in our group? The hell I didn't notice!” People started to murmur in the crowd. With mention of my name.
“I hear she has the voice and face of an angel.” Ugh kill me now. I walked up to the sphere pulling down my cloak.
“She is soooo cute!” “Ohh my god” “The rumors are true!” Elise seemed annoyed too at this chatter.
“Please be quiet unless you want me to use a wind spell to make you quiet.” Scary! I am glad for that it would be hard to concentrate with all the constant lionization.
I walk up to pipes and pull down the lever's opening up all 5 pipes. Everyone is gasping at me doing this even the headmistress herself.
“You sure you want to do that? I don't recommend more then two right now.” She warned me.
Not heading her warning at all I put my hand just over the sphere ready to begin. Waiting for me to change my mind she finally gives up and flips over the hourglass beginning the time.
Mana needed for a level 1 fireball I can pull up the exact amount since my mana control is probably my strongest quality even more then my mana purity. In fact send the exact amount through each finger in my right hand easily. I watch as simultaneously all 5 pipes have a streak of light blue float up and go down the intersection into the collection tube. The blue is a lot more darker then the other students were due to my mana purity so with only my first discharge of mana I have filled collection tube with already half way into D. Which alone causes people around to start to gasp in surprise.
I realize that I can rapidly send waves pulsing the exact amount needed in all five pipes over and over again with ease. From an onlooker it probably looks like a solid blue tube but if you look close enough you can see the tiny little gaps between each pulse. I am surprised this thing is actually eating away at my mana pool rapidly soaking it up like a towel, fortunately I also have rapid mana regeneration from an early age when all I did was cultivate my mana. Even still at the halfway mark I am below 50% mana. This device is actually able to keep up with my mana pool.
The whole room is literally silent at my performance everyone's jaws are wide open as far as they go. I bet that Elise, most of the teachers, Sonya and my sisters can do this type of performance too. Its not that impressive if you ask me. With the hourglass still having a bit of sand in it I realized that I have long passed A rank and am well above the S line in the tube. In fact if I had a slightly bigger mana pool I would have been able to completely fill the tube to the ceiling. I guess I still have room to improve. The hourglass finished and Elise called for time.
“She cheated right? There is no way that just happened. That was some kind of illusion or trick right?” The girl who had gotten previous high mark before me said flabbergasted at what she witnessed.
“No that was legitimate. Your sister told me you were ridiculous, but ridiculous doesn't even describe it” She used wind magic to float and measure the spot as she couldn't reach it otherwise. Jotting it down then releasing the mana in the tube resetting the device for the next student.
“Do you mind if skip my next go? I am happy with what I got obviously.”
“As you wish. Next in line is number 137 Sue Cluver.” I walk over to an empty spot in the corner and pull out a book I borrowed from Mandy. I notice a few of the students were coming over to talk to me but I look at them with cold eyes and they quickly retreat. Anti-social I know. Time goes by and eventually everyone in our group has had there chances at the device. In the end everyone except me got an E or D rank.
With this portion of the exam complete she handed over her scroll she had been recording our results with over to one of her aids and started leading our group to another part of the school. This time it was actually inside the school. Going down several flights of stairs we soon entered a large assembly hall room with desks set up with parchment and pens. I suppose this was the written part of the exam Each table had a number corresponding to it. After finding my seat I waited for the test to begin. Two hours is what we have to complete this test. I am surprised how closely resembling this test is to my practice tests I made up for Skyler. I hope she did well because it was a lot of work for me.
Needless to say there are only a couple questions out of the hundred that I need to use my gift of information on. All in all I would say that test fairly difficult. I got up and handed my answers to the the teacher in charge of taking answer sheets. Again everyone was looking at me like I was crazy for only using 20 minutes for a 2 hour test. Apprehensively she took my answers and another faculty member escorted me to another waiting room. I pulled the same book from earlier maybe I will be able to finish it during this exam.
Slowly but surely the waiting room began to fill up with other examinees. They still were looking at me inquisitive eyes. Finally one the students found the courage to speak to me.
“How strong are you? I imagine with S rank mana control you can cast some pretty impressive spells.” He earnestly asked. My book was in a good place to set it down so I figure I could chat for a bit.
“Strong for a examinee? Well that is for sure. Strong for a student here at Mahouren? That might be true too, but I am by no means already the strongest. In the grand scheme of things I am pretty much a big fish in a vast ocean of other big fishes.” I reply honestly.
“How do you think you did on written portion?” This time it was a the girl from earlier her name was Ruby Owal. She was the one who almost got rank C on the mana test.
“Probably got all of them right but I did rush it a bit so maybe I missed one or two. I was at a point in this book that was very interesting so I did rush a bit.” I answered awaiting the next question.
The questions continued for some time. Basically they were interested in me what kind of food I liked. What was it like living in a palace. What was it like having such strong older sisters as mages. Eventually the two hours had finished. Instead of going to our next test this was a designated lunch break. We were lead into the cafeteria here and it was very grand like you could imagine. Magical device briskly at work doing various duties such as cooking and cleaning. To my surprise Libby was already here waiting for me. She had a box lunch already prepared for me!
Skyler was already here but I didn't see Siena. I sat down and opened up my lunch it was rice balls. I had taught Libby how to prepare them and she easily mastered it.
“Thank you Libby you are the best! Nom nom nom nom.” I rapidly ate all of them. Then looked at Skyler's lunch. She was super quiet, she seen I was hungry so she slid the rest of her lunch Libby prepared too and I scarfed that down too. I easily could eat more then anyone I knew and I had the appetite too. Unfortunately my mother deemed such behavior unladylike so most of life I had to hold back but not anymore.
“You okay Skyler? How has your examination going” I ask curious how she was doing today.
“I suppose so the first thing we had to do was the interview. I think I did very well in it. I was surprised they knew I was dragon-kin. They asked questions about you in particular. I didn't say anything about our situation other then you were basically my best friend. The next test was the mana test. I finished with halfway through rank D. Other then prince who talked to you from earlier I had the best score for the mana test among our group.” It seems she is doing good today I suppose she is the type who only gets serious for tests and slacks off the rest of the time.
“Ryalith what rank did he get?” I was curious about him, he had a large mana pool when I looked at his status.
“Rank C and about a quarter the way towards rank B. It was amazing how good he was using 3 pipes at the same time. I bet he could even give you a run for you money.” Rank C that is impressive he must have worked hard.
“Is this the girl who got rank S on the mana exam?” A pompous looking boy asked. Looking at me. One of the people from my group was with him.
“Yea that's her. She is a princess so you should probably be respectful.” He added it seemed that the other kid was had probably forced him to point me out.
“Graun there is now way a gorgeous princess like this is some kind of monster like that. Oh I am sorry milady I am Raul. I am from Valsey, my father is a merchant. I am sorry for my friend here he must have confused your stunning beauty for getting S ranked in the mana test. It is impossible for an examinee after all the highest ever gotten before during entrance exams was rank B by the current student council president. I knew my friend was lying when I came over here and didn't feel you presence.” Raul said smugly and softly punched his friend.
“Your friend tells the truth. If you were gunning for representative I am sorry but the position will be mine.” I say confidently. Skyler knows I am probably not lying and seems shocked at how wide the gap truly is between us.
“Oh is that so? You know I cast a level 2 spell in 3 different elements. I am practically a shoo in for representative.” Raul flexed trying to impress me.
“Very well Mr. Representative excuse me I have lost my appetite.” I said and left abruptly, his type is definitely the worse. Arrogant thinking I would be impressed by level 2 spells when I can cast level 4 spells in almost any element excluding Light. I should just stick with Fire, Earth, and Lightning for the practical those are the elements I am the most consistent in.
After regrouping with the 'blues' we were escorted to the arena here on campus. It was decently large and could easily fit the whole student body. I have read that they hold all kinds of competitions here from the student tournament to the 3 on 3 tournaments, as well as a martial art tournament that works with the surrounding dojo's like Zeke's.
The ground is split up the first half has various types of target dummys. To moving golems and device capable of measuring dispel, illusion, other types of magic. The second half was an empty space with a strong barrier around people who want a mock battle.
“This is the practical here will demonstrate your abilities in whatever manner you want. Those that want a mock battle can separate into a different group over here.” Elise said pointing over towards the empty half of the areana. Hmmm this puts me in a pickle to truly demonstrate my abilities I need a lot more space then this half cramped with all the dummy and magic devices. I raise my hand.
“Yes Kara what you have a question?” She turned to me.
“Honestly a mock battle is what I want to do but does it have to be against a fellow examinee can I possibly do a mock battle with someone else or something else? Like a golem maybe.” I ask her seriously.
“You must think very highly of yourself. That is fine Iris would please go grab a golem from the practice facility? I think a type C would be fine” She called one of her assistants over to go and grab a golem for me.
I stayed in the back of the line as the practicals carried on. The mock battles were fairly entertaining for the most part it was all level one spells with a couple of students capable of level 2. Injuries here were easily treated by one of faculty who specialized in healing magic. The other students were doing there best as well over on the other side. It must be a difficult job as an evaluator because there score here could easily determine whether they get into school or not. The mock battles had finished and now just the other side was carrying out practicals.
Boom.....Boom....Boom …... I could hear the ground shake as something very big was headed this way. On the far side of the arena was a large gate for bigger things to enter I watched as that gate opened up for a large golem. I suppose its too late to back out now.
“Well I assuming you can perform at least level 2 spell fighting a golem of this caibur should give you an opportunity to show some things. However I notice you are danger I will stop the golem and your mock battle will conclude. This type C golem is what our seconds years fight for there practical exams. The battle will begin as soon as you enter the arena” The headmistress explained this mock battle for me. I looked around and everyone was focused on me now. I guess Elise figured there would be a lot of intrigue so she let me have this type of stage. In fact in the crowd now were many current students and even teachers who had yet started classes yet. I guess I didn't really notice them till now but they must have heard about my S-rank mana capabilities and wanted to see me in a mock battle.
I pull my hood down so my vision is unhindered. My Sidhe staff that I had on my back pulled up taking the cover off revealing the blue glow as I walked into the barrier. The golem started coming forward immediately. Very well lets impede its movement.
“Consuming sand, pull my enemies down swallowing them in the earth. Shifting Sands!” I cast shifting sands a level 3 earth spell.
It makes the ground basically like quick sand. The golem who runs right into the sand easily gets stuck. Immobile the golem performs a beam attack that I easily cartwheel out of the way of. Following the beam attack I sprint up towards the golem acrobatically running up its arm to behind doing a flip up on to its head.
“With the despair of a thousand winters sap the hope and warmth with my touch. Icy grasp.” Icy grasp was another level 3 spell this time a water spell. Using the staff and completing the touch attack spell it easily freezes the golem completely like a golem popsicle. With my target immobilized and now defenseless I dismount from his head with a back flip giving myself ample space for my finisher.
“Through fire it all began, through fire it will all end. Giver and taker of life consume all at once and release all at once. Explosion!” Using the full power of the Sidhe staff I cast a level 4 Explosion aimed right at the center of the frozen golem. Explosion is one of the spells I have been working hard on it is technically a hybrid wind and fire spell. At this point it is pretty much a level 6 spell in effect to the golem since frozen targets have the shatter effect when they take exploding or physical damage like this. I suppose this might be a bit of overkill.
The result of this spell is so intense that not only is the golem completely shattered I have also shattered over half of the ground that was frozen quick sand along with level 5 barrier around this area causing all the devices that were set up on the other side to be knocked over from the wind gust from the explosion. The debris of the explosion starts to rain down dangerously but the headmistress quickly blew it away with wind magic.
After this display the entire crowd is speechless as they all gasp at what just happened. Just as it was with the mana exam. I am sick of people thinking I am some sort of pretty princess I am glad I am actually going all out today. With them knowing my true ability they will be able to help me better too. A level 4 spell here is not so crazy even if it was a hybrid spell.
With our practicals finished and the stadium in need of some repair our group was lead back inside for our interviews. I figured I was about to face a barrage of questions from the other students but Elise asked to come do my interview first. It seemed one of her assistants was taking interviews as well to speed things up.
Elise led me into an office and sat down and looked my straight in the face.
“Would show me your status? Unlike last time I am sure you can manage such an easy spell” I guess this was a fair question.
“Is it fine if I don't give you the whole thing? Certain things I would like to keep to myself.” I state seriously.
“Like what?” Naturally she was curious what I would need to hide from her.
“Ummm mostly my pacts and maybe a couple of my skills. I have no problem showing you my basic status though.” I can't have her know everything after all. Especially my psionic abilities and affiliation with the assassins guild.
“Well I guess that's fine. You don't quite trust me yet and I can understand wanting to be careful here. Could you atleast give me any magic related skills you posses? The more I know about your current abilities the better I can help you grow as a mage.” With that comprise made I reached out and sent the headmistress the agreed upon info. She sat there awhile going over it.
“It is more amazing then I thought. You were blessed with a gift from rapid growth the Gift of the Adept and you have spent every single day using this gift to the fullest. The effects on you are profound and have actually caused your body to physically mature sooner than most.” She seemed very happy right now like she had won the lottery.
“What is your goal in all this why do you work so hard? What caused you to leave your family for 4 years so you could get stronger. It seems you gave up your childhood to gain this strength there has to be a good reason.” Her next question threw me for a bit of a loop but I thought about it and answered seriously.
“A very wise person whom I trust told me there was a storm coming to this world in the future and this storm will not be a demon invasion. No this storm makes a demon invasion look like a sprinkle. I am sure you know about it too, the next alignment of the planets will be the trigger. From the records I have gathered it seems the event will happen at some point within the next two decades. Add on to the fact that the demon tribe could strike at any time as well. Anyways with such an important battles on the horizon someone with my gifts and ability can't waste them on a childhood, if I can be as strong as a summoned hero or a demon king then I need to realize that potential for our sake. I need to be able to protect my friends and family along with everyone else who calls Solus there home. ” This was the honest reason.
“I see so that's what this is.............. well yes I do know about this storm you speak of. A seer has foretold about the planetary alignment bringing a great calamity upon this world. I feel bad for you Kara that at such a young age you have to shoulder the responsibility that your talents and gifts gives you........ Born a princess blessed with tremendous gifts and abilities, people would die to be in your shoes but they don't realize the responsibility that power gives you. You seem to understand this aspect perfectly. Nevertheless you have made the right choice coming here. Nowhere else in the world will you be able to realize your potential in the arcane arts. I truly look forward to what you will be able to accomplish during your time here.” She seemed to look at me with pity, its true that I didn't really have a childhood but that was true in my previous life as well. It was always a dream of mine to be a hero after all.
------------------------------------------Skyler's PoV--------------------------------------------------
I did all that studying with Kara but I fell like I have forgot everything! In my previous life I would simply have copied off someone else but I think the teacher has been keeping an eye on me I don't think I would get away with it. It too bad I cant use telepathy with Kara yet I bet she got all these questions right. She can simply pull the answers up in her head using her gift.
I did my best on the test knowing my fate could be swayed by the results. I don't know what I will do if I don't get in here. I can't very well ask Kara to leave this place for my sake alone. I guess I will worry about that bridge if we cross it. Tired from the 9 hour marathon that is the entrance exams I head back to place where this all began the front courtyard. Our group leader told us the results will be posted today here so all the groups are gathering back here.
“Did you hear in group 'blue' there was a student so impressive that most of the faculty came to watch her practical?”
“I hear she is even more beautiful then she is talented!”
“I hear she a princess is that amazing I guess people like that really do exist. I think I am in love”
Pffft these people are going to try to sink there filthy finger into my precious Kara you have another thing coming. I will freaking kill you all. Not only did Kara save my life she also lived in my previous world where she well she was a he at the time was a hero of sorts. She is mine alone! I look around for Kara she is taller then almost everyone here except for the servants.
Ah there she is quite the crowd has surrounded her. She looks annoyed about the whole situation.
“Excuse me.” I say as a butt out the girl next her who was starry eyed of Kara.
“The results will be released soon?” I ask her just to strike up conversation.
“Hey what are you doing getting all friendly with the princess!” one of the kids was not happy I was getting her attention after having squeezed myself in.
“This is my best friend Skyler, I will give her as much time of mine as I please.” Kara seemed to be getting upset. She by nature is very serious person, but she is also respectful to you unless you have crossed her in any manner. I look at the boy who had complained and pulled my eye down to taunt him. He didn't seem to understand the gesture perhaps its just a Japanese thing.
“Attention please the results of Examinations will be posted on this board momentarily. For those who made it congratulations however don't get arrogant. It is very possible for you to fail out if you don't or aren't capable of keeping up. For those of you who didn't make it, don't give up many teachers here as well as some of the top mages in the world didn't make the cut at this point. They used it as motivation and were able to prove to us that we made a mistake with them.” The announcer was one of the assistants of Elise the headmistress. Her name is Tarah Lake a dark elf or drow if you will.
Oh my god I guess this finally it. I don't think I have ever worked so hard then I have these past few months to get ready for this exam. Kara is stoic as all ever she pretty much is a lock for the top spot. I watch as the board starts to fade in writing. I start looking for my name on the board among the mosh pit of others trying to do the same. The board is big enough for a lot of people to look at it at the same time.
Finally I found a gap close to the board. I am looking for my name as heart is literally in my throat.........found it! I was 20 from the bottom the lowest score to get in was 30 so I got in with a little breathing room after all.
#134 Skyler Magus Score 41 Class 1-C
1-C I wonder if Kara is in same classroom as me. Finding her will be easy she is going to be the first one.
Top Score and Representative of the first year students
Kara Rosewood Magus Score 842 Class 3-A
Runner-up
Ryalith Swansong Magus Score 61 Class 1-A
Wait why is Kara in a third year homeroom. It is kinda weird that she is the representative but taking classes with the third years. I suppose the student's of each class take pride in its top student's it wouldn't be fair to take Kara completely away from us after all. But damn I was kind of hoping we would be in the same class after all. All around the only thing people can talk about is Kara the first year goddess.