Soon enough my next class came around.
In Elemental Control 101, the lecture hall buzzed with anticipation. The professor, an experienced Elemental Control instructor named Professor Varela, entered the room with an air of authority.
"Good day, aspiring Elemental wielders!" Professor Varela greeted energetically. "Today marks the beginning of your journey into the intricate world of Elemental control. Each of you will discover and hone your unique Elemental affinity. This affinity will guide your path and define your capabilities as an Etherial wielder."
As Professor Varela spoke, holographic displays materialized around the room, showcasing the six primary Elemental affinities: Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Light, and Dark. The displays glowed with vibrant colors, capturing the essence of each Elemental force.
"Now you are not limited to other these six. Many people through the Golactic Coalation have sub-affinity that correlate on the spectrum of the universe. For example, Metal, Plant, Magma, and even emotional affinities like wrath and horror which are more complicated to explain."
"If you've made it into class everyone here should know their affinity by now."
Professor Varela's words resonated through the lecture hall as students absorbed the information about Elemental affinities. I glanced around, curious to see how my fellow classmates were reacting to this revelation.
"As you embark on your journey to master your Elemental affinity, keep in mind that understanding and controlling it is an ongoing process," Professor Varela continued. "It's not just about knowing your Element; it's about forging a connection, enhancing it, and pushing the boundaries of what you thought possible."
She gestured toward the holographic displays once more, illustrating various martial arts techniques associated with each Element. "Meditation is key to unlocking the true potential of your affinity. It's through meditation that you attune your spirit to the cosmic energies that govern your Element."
The professor emphasized the importance of discipline and dedication, explaining that families often passed down specific techniques through generations. Valor and achievements could also earn individuals access to advanced techniques. For those who lacked such resources, the Golactic Coalation provided basic techniques for every Element, ensuring that no student would be without the fundamental knowledge to harness their affinity.
She continued the rest of the days class with just diving in slight for the first semestere lesson and telling everyone what we would be learning about.
She continued the rest of the day's class by delving into the specifics of the first semester's lessons. With a deep dive into the fundamentals, she outlined the subjects that would form the bedrock of their training. Her explanations were thorough, and she navigated through the curriculum with a blend of authority and enthusiasm.
The holographic displays flickered to life, showcasing intricate diagrams, historical references, and simulations to aid in understanding. Her teaching style was dynamic, keeping the students engaged and fostering an environment of active learning.
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And eventually, my next class came around: Ether Synthesis and Manipulation. As I entered the classroom, a sense of anticipation lingered in the air. The subject held a particular allure, promising insights into the intricate art of harnessing and manipulating Ether.
The room was equipped with advanced holographic displays, ready to unfold the mysteries of Ether under the guidance of a seasoned instructor. As the class settled in, the professor, showed himself.
To my surprise, as the professor revealed himself, none other than the Vigil officer I had met in rusthaven that stood before the class. Recognition flashed in his eyes as he scanned the room, and a subtle grin played on his lips. The shock reverberated through me, realizing that the man I had encountered in the slums of Rust Haven, the one who chose not to turn me in for illegal activities, was now my instructor for Ether Synthesis and Manipulation.
With a commanding presence, began the class with a nod to the holographic displays. "Welcome, aspiring Etherial manipulators. I am Don Leonardo, your instructor for this semester. Just call me Professor Leonardo. Ether Synthesis and Manipulation is a delicate art that requires not only knowledge but finesse. Today, we embark on a journey into the heart of Etheric alchemy."
He seamlessly delved into the lesson, drawing upon his experiences in Etherial manipulation from his role at the New Arcadia Vigil branch. His teachings went beyond the conventional, intertwining practical applications with real-world scenarios.
As Professor Leonardo continued his lecture, the class absorbed his wisdom like a sponge. His insights into Etheric alchemy were profound, and he seamlessly bridged the gap between theory and application. The holographic displays projected intricate diagrams and simulations, illustrating the principles of Ether Synthesis and Manipulation with clarity.
"Don't merely consider Ether as a tool," professor Leonardo emphasized, his gaze scanning the room. "Think of it as a companion, a force intertwined with the very fabric of the universe. To manipulate it effectively, you must understand its essence, feel its currents, and dance with its rhythms."
He then proceeded to demonstrate advanced Etherial techniques, manipulating the energy with a grace that hinted at years of expertise. The class watched in awe as he effortlessly crafted complex Etherial constructs, showcasing the finesse and precision required in Etheric alchemy.
As the lesson progressed, it became apparent that Professor Leonardo's approach to teaching went beyond the standard curriculum. He shared anecdotes from his experiences at the New Arcadia Vigil branch, illustrating the practical applications of Ether manipulation in the field. The class found themselves not only learning the art but also gaining valuable insights into its real-world implications.
The bell signaling the end of the class rang, and as everyone made their way out in a rush, I chose to stay behind. It was the start of the lunch break, and I had some time to spare, giving me the opportunity to talk to Professor Leonardo.
As the last student exited, leaving me alone in the classroom, I observed him without being noticed. He hadn't glanced my way, but he seemed aware of my presence. With a deliberate motion, he pulled a cigarette from a metal pack and lit it, smoke swirling around him as he exhaled.
"So, you kept your word, kid," he said, his voice calm and reserved. "Most boys your age struggle with that."
I replied, "Well, I would've done anything to get the hell out of there."
"I never caught your name back then. What is it?" he asked.
"It's Alex, sir."
"Well, Alex, I can still see that your Ether is running rampant, and it's obvious you've learned little since the last time I met you."
I looked at him, confused. I'd like to think the opposite. Although I wasn't where I wanted to be, I believed I had greatly improved.
"Why that face? Aren't you even aware that you haven't even formed an Ether core yet?" He said.
His statement caught me off guard. "Ether core? What's that?"
He stared at me for a moment, then began laughing. "You really are from the slums, kid." He took a puff of his cigarette and gestured for me to sit down. "You don't know anything, do you? How did you even make it this far without knowing what an Ether core is?"