Chapter 269

Option Number Two.

“Can you help me unlock Killing Intent?” Falkynion asks.

I pause waiting for the punchline, only to realize that the man is serious about this request.

“Seriously? You want me to teach you how to unlock Killing Intent as your primary evolution point for your Legendary Bloodline?” I ask, making sure I have the request correct.

“Yeah, I think it would be cool. You know, almost like an aura but sightly different, where I can with time harness the rage into an actual weapon.” Falkynion continued to speak. As he did more and more of the other students, particularly the males proceeded to get excited at the idea of unlocking a new form of attack.

“Oh, and what then. You would eventually harness your Killing Intent into laser beams that shoot from your eyes like an emo Superman? Or that wussy X-Men character, the one that lost his girl to Wolverine?” I say, trying to keep the drool out of my mouth while imagining even an old Hugh Jackman strutting around in his yellow suit.

“It’s not emo,” the one part that Falkynion noted.

“First, yes it is. All Killing Intent does is force you into brooding and constantly keeping part of your emotions bottled up so that you might be able to save yourself from consequences. Consequences that you most often could avoid by being civil and just talking to people. Also, the idea of laser vision or focused intent is so limiting.” I respond, my mind instantly working out the myriad of problems with Killing Intent, not just from a weaponization standpoint, but from a practical standpoint as well.

“Limiting?” Dustavon, another male with clear interest in Killing Intent, asks.

“Yes, limiting. Do you know how limiting it is to have to be able to see a target to hit them. Or to have your eyes face them, that means at the very least an enemy waiting in ambush has a split second before you turn to face them to strike first. Then there is the fact that beams don’t curve, or twist as you would want. Also, there might be more things in the line of the shot that dissipate the energy of this Killing Intent laser eye booger beam that would have to fire directly from your body.” I continue destroying the idea of trying to harness Killing Intent, as it is highly ineffective in the long run.

“But what about the ability to drop enemies to their knees with sheer force of will alone?” Randidler asks, and with that I have the trifecta of the three bro-kateers joining in this conversation.

“Well, I’m glad you brought up the only real point of this, Willpower. As that is ultimately what you would be using as a weapon with an effect like Killing Intent. But if you wanted to drop people around you to their knees, why not try something simple, like gravity magic? Just focus your concept on increasing or decreasing the natural forces of the world around you. This way you can do it on command, not just when you are angry. By having it so you can increase or decrease gravity at will, you can severely throw off any attacks. Also, if you get better at manifesting that concept, you could have it push enemies to the side or in alternate directions.” I respond.

With that, Falkynion, the instigator of this questionnaire seemed to finally contemplate the alternative I was offering. Unfortunately, I still had the riled up Randidler, and the whimsical Dustavon to realize that this would be a waste of all our times.

“All right, I agree that it is a waste of a future focus, but could it be done?” Falkynion asked.

Hearing this, I take a deep calming breath, before I get pulled into this clearly baited question.

“Can it be done sure, this is magic. This is the unbridled and untapped power of the universe that we are just beginning to feel, experience, and comprehend. Can it be done, yes. Should it be done, no.” I state, hoping that this would be enough, but I don’t want to stifle learning or creativity, particularly when it comes to magical expression and awareness. That is why I found myself answering truthfully.

“Okay, but can you then quantify why this would be a bad, say in comparison to the focus on Gravity Manipulation as you noted as an alternative?” Falkynion asked, his voice filled with that note of persistence that says he can easily be the first to climb to the top of a greased flagpole.

Hearing the question, and realizing that this is actually good dialog about magic, something I am mildly passionate about, I decided to go full lecture mode.

“Okay, I will answer this question. I take it, the rest of you all want to hear the answer for this as well?” I turn and ask the other eleven Legendary Bloodline students. That was the reason for the more intimate classroom, as there were only twelve in all, well twelve and a half if we included both Penelope and Jhonny who were both watching from the back corner of the classroom. Why half? Well I assumed that one or both would soon begin the process of starting their Legendary Bloodline evolution here shortly if they stayed around me. As I was apparently some type of radioactive magic factory that sent off mutating particle waves of energy. Energy that could quickly mutate poorly if left unchecked.

“Yes,” the eleven other students answered and nodded. Penelope and Jhonny both nodded in excitement as well from the corner of the open classroom.

With that, I paused, and then using a variant of Double Layered Permanent Illusionary Text, I modified the original spell to show what I was working on in front of every student.

“Okay, to show you scientifically why Killing Intent is inferior of an evolutionary path, compared to almost anything.” I begin.

Then as I speak words begin to appear right before each student, that is clearly visible and legible to each student, part of why I liked Illusion magic, as it had a Mental component that was undeniable.

Why Killing Intent is Lame 101.

“This is probably the least effective use of an advancement, for the base and maximum range of the spell remain constant throughout. For the spell formula, or the attack portion of the ability will always be the same. Rage multiplied by Intent.”

Killing Intent formula: Rage (N) X Intent (Willpower).

“Now if you notice that is it, your Willpower times your rage, to get a desired effect. Why this might seem appealing is that theoretically Rage is infinite. For you can be infinitely angry at the world having a hissy fit worse than any melodramatic teenager has any right to be. And that will serve you well for one attack, your first few attacks, but eventually your rage will subside and make it so this value decreases rapidly.” I state.

I pause for a moment to let this concept sink in.

“From a power consumption rate, this is doubly draining. For your Rage can be considered one pool of energy, which would realistically be a modified version of Qi. If you wanted to learn to create, use or wield Qi, there are many better ways of doing this that don’t require such extreme measures. Also, you then have your modified and watered down version of Qi energy mixing and multiplying with Willpower, which would again be a watered-down version of mana that would likely require a physical component to link it together. This linking would then have to be fused into stamina, yet a third source of energy that would be used in the creation of this Killing Intent.” I state, and at that, I let the mathematical formula write itself out.

If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

Breakdown of All Components:

N = Qi–

Willpower = Mana–

Bonding Agent = Stamina–

Formula: Qi– X Mana– X Stamina– = Killing Intent

“Again, you are using three different pools of energy to bind elements into a medium that can have a physical impact on the world. While only getting the multiplying effect of two different components. This is an unsustainable ratio and one that will lead to quick burnout over the course of a long battle.” I conclude.

“Now compare this to even the most rudimentary of spell formulas, and you will see why magic is superior.” I state.

“For a basic spell to work you have one fuel source, your mana. You have your Willpower or noted Attribute, and multiply that by any three or more relevant skills.” I state, then break down the formula for everyone.

Breakdown of a Basic Spell Formula:

(Skill 1 (Nulled Out) + Skill 2 + Skill 3 + Any other relevant skills) X Willpower X (Fuel Source: Mana–) = Spell Effect.

“Note that this method requires three or more skills to be engaged at the same time to get the multiplicative effect of Willpower. The first Skill, your highest proficiency skill is automatically nulled out, then you gain the bonus from the combining of synergistic Skills two, three, and any additional skills you have. Otherwise, the components are just added together. Well added together after the first skill is dismissed” I state, making sure to correct an initial error I had to take time to understand about magic.

“Wait, who has three or more skills to cast a singular spell?” Randidler asks.

Hearing the question, I just pause and stare at him like he is crazy.

“Any true mage who would want to improve their craft.” I fire back.

There is a pause, as the students go over the data, but then Rockzanna raises her inquisitive hand.

Seeing that she is now joining the discussion, I call out to her, “yes Rockzanna?”

“Okay, if we accept the Skill portion for magic spells. Why weren’t Skills added for the Killing Intent?”

Hearing that, I pause and look at her for a moment before nodding and smiling at the insightful question.

“Good question, so in this case the reason is lack of applicable skills,” I respond.

“How so?” Dustavon asks, once again right back into the mix.

“Okay, so I don’t have the skill Killing Intent, so I can’t verify if it is real or not.” I preface.

“So because you don’t have it, means you don’t believe it exists?” Dustavon questions.

Hearing the mildly personal attack, I am about to respond, when I realize he is correct. This is an error in my thinking.

“Okay, let’s break this down and show why the grouping of skills will not work. Though first, even with the skill multiplier, you are still looking at a three-energy pool waste for Killing Intent, but I will agree that it was not as wasteful as I originally imagined,” I begin but am cut off with enthusiastic noises and grunts from the three bro-kateers.

“So let’s work this out logically. We start with the initial formula and add in the component for Skill multipliers,” I begin.

Killing Intent formula: Rage (N) X Intent (Willpower) X *(Skill 1 (Nulled Out) + Skill 2 + Skill 3 + Any other relevant skills)

“Our fuel reserve costs still remain the same,” I state, adding that back into the equation.

Formula: Qi– X Mana– X Stamina– = Killing Intent

“Now let’s go through the myriad of skills we could combine to logically use Killing Intent in a synergistic skilled manner, what are some skills we could use?” I ask.

“Focus?”

“Good Focus is a good skill for this, and I will go ahead and note Killing Intent itself as a skill, assuming one of you finds it and practices it. Again though, a lot of brooding and emo vibes while you attempt to max out that skill, but who am I to complain about learning new skills.” I state, adding both skills into the formula.

Killing Intent formula: Rage (N) X Intent (Willpower) X *(Focus (Nulled Out) + Killing Intent + Skill 3 + Any other relevant skills)

“Now what are other skills we could use to synergize?” I ask.

“What about Mana Channeling?” Rockzanna asked

“Good try, but remember we have now gone to using both mana and Qi in this. So you would need a dual channeling skill.”

“But why?” Falkynion asked.

“It’s the fact that mana can utilize stationary skills, i.e. skills that can be done by just thinking about desired effects. While Qi skills often require movement to fully activate.” I reply.

“But aren’t you moving the mana within your body?” Falkynion asked.

“Right, but you are just using an extra skill at that point that is not synergetic with your overall goal of enacting Killing Intent. Meaning that rather than increasing your overall value of outcome, that is how much Kill you could release from this Killing Intent, you are adding unnecessary steps that will be divided away or at the very leased subtracted from your overall skill value you are working to increase.” I note.

“Oh, I see,” Falkynion said and began to nod to himself.

At that I let out a breath, as I quite frankly did not want to continue down this path of showing my students, or potential enemies how to actually weaponize Killing Intent and make it functional.

“Good, now that this is settled…” I begin but am quickly cut off by Falkynion.

“That must be why masters went into secluded meditation in caves for years, so they could focus on learning new skills needed to improve their Killing Intent,” Falkynion said, a note of dawning understanding filling his words as he acted like he finally achieved nirvana.

“You know who also went to caves, cavemen. And women,” I correct myself there not wanting to state that men were alone in those caves.

Exhale.

Taking a deep breath and then let it out as I try offer a clearly terrible middle ground.

“Very well, if you still wish to focus on developing your Killing Intent, I will not stop you. That said, I will not be able to walk you through this method of power, as I do not understand it. While there are other wasteful forms of power, I do think at first Killing Intent will be one of the most inefficient uses of your time and energy. That said, I will not stand in your way. However, know that if you try to practice your Killing Intent upon me, I will smack you so hard your laser eye beams will be firing crisscross through each other, do I make myself clear?” I ask, while holding up my open palm right hand to demonstrate the instrument I would use to let him receive said smack.

Tingle.

At that statement, a stream of golden energy erupted from me and bound itself around Falkynion.

Shivers.

The moment my intent made contact with Falkynion, he visibly shuttered at the contact.

“Was that?” Falkynion asked, but then stopped himself before he continued.

“Was that what?” I ask, trying not to note that I just bound myself to disciplining this student if he looked at me angrily.

“Was that your Killing Intent? It felt, so real…” Falkynion said, his voice trailing off.

“Killing Intent nothing, that was just Pixie Intent. Meaning you just made me make a binding oath on you. From now on, if you go down the path of learning Killing Intent, know I will now be forced to lay hands on you, if you glare at me with that same intent to kill.” I respond. For a moment I almost feel bad about the oath, but then no if this student dares to glare at me with any form of killing malice, he deserves a good bop on the head.

For a moment Falkynion looked like he wanted to respond, but then quickly thought better of that, as he just seemed to relax and nod in understanding.

Then he shared a glance with the other two bro-kateers and I could almost see the look of recognition cross their faces. Finally, the stares between the trio ended and I just knew I was in trouble as they all three looked at me in near unison.

“But you are saying we could learn Killing Intent?” Dustavon finally asked, apparently earning the chance to speak for the trio.

Sigh.

“Yes, you can learn Killing Intent, I will not stop you from trying to learn anything you wish to learn. That said, you can come to me for advice on ways to improve energy efficiency. You can even show me the way you circulate the energy in your body and how you internalize your inner wounded child to damaging eye boogers that spray from your face. You can do all of that and I will not stop you.” I state, and pause for a second.

As I do, the trio let out an excitedly exchanged glance between the three of them, that’s when I continue.

“However, I will stop you if you try to practice these emo stares at me, or at other guild members who have not consented to participate in sparring matches with any of you, do I make myself clear?” I ask.

Just as expected, the chains of binding go out from me, to the trio again.

For a moment I wonder why it went to Falkynion again, but then realize I expanded my original binding to him to now include not just me, but other Guild Members.

Realizing this change, I think about it and pause to allow in an amendment. “That said, if the person you are attacking or using unsanctioned Killing Intent against is found to be a spy, or otherwise compromised by an enemy nation, I will not hold your actions against you at that time.”

With that, the intense stream of energy that had gone from me to the trio lessened slightly.

I’m still not entirely certain if binding myself through oaths to others is a good thing or not, but I do like the fact that I can sort of manipulate it at the current moment. Especially while the forging of the binding oaths seems to be somewhat malleable.

Finally, there is a pause, while it is clear that the trio will likely focus on developing some form of Killing Intent as their Legendary Bloodline’s focus, the other nine students seem to be taking a bit broader approach to this topic of study I have assigned for their mid-term.

“Any other questions?” I ask, realizing that the topic at hand has likely distracted us all.

With that Rockzanna raised her hand and asked, “what would you make to counter Killing Intent?”

“Heck with that, I want to know how to harness Pixie Intent, that looks awesome,” Polinnya said from the corner of the classroom.

Hearing the topics given, I decided to jump right in.

“For Pixie Intent, I honestly don’t know how it works. Just that I can sort of feel when it is close.” I respond to Polinnya.

Then turning back to Rockzanna, I paused before figuring out how to answer her truthfully.

“Now, as for finding a way to counter Killing Intent, it’s simple I would develop a counter like Distracting Intent,” I reply.

“Distracting Intent?” Polinnya asked, now fully engaged in the conversation.

“Yeah, Killing Intent relies entirely on an intense and unmitigated Focus. The easiest way to counter that is to find ways to distract them.” I respond.

“How would you do that?” Rockzanna asked.

At that, I just smiled.

“How would I distract people, simple. I’d let them read my mind,” I reply.

It was clearly a joke, but judging by the contemplative looks on everyone’s faces I can see that many are apparently taking this seriously.