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Mancers Grimoire
Prologue Chapter 1: One Who Lacks Merit.

Prologue Chapter 1: One Who Lacks Merit.

Big round of applause for Kerambit, HeadPhonesOnAtLast, teenreader. for Pring MG's chapters and assisting me on this side project. i hope you guys can rep them to show them your care :D

so since this is the first official chapter i want to let you all know that i plan to implement tables later on. also please be aware this is my first attempt at a sci-fi story so assimilating my style of writing fantasy into this may not appeal to many until i learn to improve.

please be aware that i intended to implement magic into this story but i had a breakthrough with a concept that i believe will be much better thus im keeping it non magic this lets me work on sci-fi and such.

also i recieved a few pms regarding not to implement mecha into this story id go as far as to say people pleaded?. i want to apologize to those people because i am adding mecha its 80% the reason this story was made. ofcourse not all of them will be the same.

some of my long term readers know i tend to explain something a little then revisit it in a realistic manner. i believe part of the fun about learning about some super cool feature/piece of content is not learning about it right away completely but revisiting it several times to let the hype build up.

this project as i have reminded my dear readers is not like SR/ES it is something i will update as i please. i dont feel this will gain as much popularity as my second project es did but my complete love is focused towards my first story. this is why i never rewrite anything i submit i would only go as far as editing errors/plotholes.

with that said and done i really hope you guys enjoy this. i believe it will help me improve my ability to right in several scenarios that will be prepared for SR/ES in due time.

if you see any plot holes/mistakes please post a comment or msg me im not one to shy away from fair critcisim. but go easy on the prs this is there first attempt :) enjoy!

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Gazing out of the window, a young boy with average length hair, combed in a wave-like manner towards his left, was grinning with a smile on his face. Properly attired in jeans with black shoes and laces, he had a suit-like top with a red tie that was flat against his chest.

No longer gazing out the window of the unknown vessel, he turned around as he was called out by a voice that seemed young.

“Nian stop staring like an idiot. Father said to remain proper.” the voice was soft, yet cultured.

Nian gazed at the other child, he seemed as young as himself wearing the same attire, but had long, shoulder length, black hair in a ponytail like fashion instead.

“Lucas, you're too focused. Relax a bit” Nian smiled as he went back to his seat and relaxed.

The interior of the vessel seemed luxurious as it had a leather interior and a futuristic look with the many flashing lights dancing away. The seats the two boys sat themselves in seemed good enough for a king.

“When we meet father, behave yourself. Otherwise the others will think we’re idiots. “ Lucas frowned a little as Nian replied.

“They do that anyway Lucas. But you always put them in their place though. I'm sure you're bound to inherit fathers and your mother’s hyper ability.”

Lucas gave a somewhat proud smile as he nodded, “Don't worry, I'm sure you’ll also inherit a Hyper ability”.

As the two conversed, the large flying vessel resembling an aircraft made its way across the air passing a lush blue ocean, entering an island like resort where several fancy aircrafts were headed to dock.

The island itself had many fields of grassy plains as well as forests and oak trees with lakes that flowed in a healthy manner across rocks. Along with ponds set in a relaxing manner, one would find this as a paradise.

Within the center of the island, a large estate spanning hundreds of meters stood. Around it were high walls guarded at every inch by men who wore full military like outfits with an insignia on their backs resembling two dragons, one black and one white curling around a decorated sword.

This insignia was the symbol of the Meris Clan. The island, the estate, and the guards are all property and members of the clan. The Meris Clan of the 870th sector was quite famous for boasting some of the finest Shift Battle Mancer pilots for the past hundred years.

Their celebrity status was because the clan focused mainly on Shift Battles. The Meris Clan had been formed several hundred years ago when two great Shift Battle pilots married and unified both families, each one having a Hyper ability which meant the blood line was quite pure.

This lasted for many years, and the Meris Clan was known as one of the purest clans with a Hyper ability bloodline. It was unheard of for a child born in the clan’s main family to not have a Hyper ability, even branch families would have a 40% chance just showing how pure the blood line was.

As the large aircraft docked on a platform, a man wearing a stylish suit with slick hair and a fair look wearing something over his eyes that resembled glasses, but was used to help him identify an individual. He gazed at the two children who soon exited the aircraft.

“Welcome, Young masters. Your other siblings have arrived, today is a great day.” The man, aged in his 40’s spoke with pride and happiness.

Lucas replied as they were following the man the three of them guarded by five individuals who boasted pulse rifles and a martial arts background for extra safety.

“Mr. Flays, is father here?” Lucas spoke as if he had known this man since he was born.

The man known as Mr. Flays replied, while continuing their approach to the main estate building. “The head of the clan will be a little late due to a meeting, I apologize young master”.

Nian sighed outwardly with his hands behind his head. “It's fine, it's fine”, he spoke twice before continuing as Lucas didn't speak. “I can't believe the day is finally here...Ten years. We can finally see if we have Hyper abilities… I'm so nervous” Nian moved his hands to his front and shivered a bit.

Flays gave a soft chuckle, “Young master, do not worry. Even if you do not unlock a Hyper ability on your first go, using a white key is guaranteed to give you one 2 chances and it's unheard of for our great clan to even need to use a white key to obtain a hyper ability. It's quite laughable”.

Nian gave a soft laugh and nodded. “True, I guess I'm too eager”. With them talking for a minute, they boarded a land vehicle that took them down an angled tunnel that led to the estate’s underground facility.

Having arrived soon after, Lucas and Nian bid farewell to Mr. Flays, who would go to meet their father when he arrived. The interior of the complex was quite large; having been built into the island’s underground cave system, it needed a bit of work before it could match many facilities.

Lucas looked with awe as he and Nian gazed at the Mancer mechs lined up against the walls. Each one boasting a similar layout with the Meris Clan’s insignia.

“I… I can't believe it, those are the mechs our seniors use to fight in Shift Battles” Lucas spoke out with envy, gulping down the saliva that nearly became drool.

Nian eyed them for awhile also intrigued as he and Lucas took their time before entering the guarded elevator that led up inside the estates main building.

“I was hoping to see father’s Mancer, I guess it's somewhere else” Nian sighed, a little disappointed.

As the elevator doors closed, it began to rise up causing the two young boys to shake slightly.

“Well, two days ago, father engaged in a Shift Battle against the head of the Willford Clan, didn't you watch it?” Nian turned to look at Lucas with shock as he spoke.

“What?! I can't believe it, who won? How was it?”

Lucas chuckled as the elevator door opened, revealing the heavily guarded hallway. The two made their way down heading towards a large door that was also guarded.

“Father, of course. It was close since the Willford Clan is nearly as big as ours, but father’s Hyper ability proved greater in the end”. Lucas spoke with pride and respect for his father.

As the two neared the guard attendants at the door, it opened revealing a lab like interior that had a large white marble like floor. Inside were 14 other individuals, females and males that resembled both Nian’s and Lucas’s age.

Frowning quietly, Nian looked down as he entered. Lucas then gave him a soft pat on the back.

“Don't worry brother, I won't let them bully you.” Nian looked up at him and nodded. The two soon stood in line with the others.

One of the females with long blonde hair wearing a pink dress gazed to the side as she spoke,

“Lucas, brother, it's been two years since we’ve last met.“ she spoke with a dignified tone showing that she had been taught well for her age.

Lucas placed his hands behind his back replying.

“Indeed, I hope you are well sister.” speaking with an equally respectful tone.

The female then turned to look at Nian, who seemed a bit nervous with his hands at his sides.

“Hmm, I can't believe he is here as well. Father’s only mistake was allowing such no good child like him to grow.”

Nian’s face turned pale, feeling anger swell up in him.

Soon, another male who was near the female turned and before greeting Lucas listened to the female’s words. He gave a soft laugh,

“Cousin, I agree. Although I’m from a branch family, I’ve heard Nian doesn't train or work hard while we all have to. He is lazy and no good. I would be shocked if he ends up with a Hyper ability. This good for nothing doesn't deserve it.”

Lucas’s face twisted a bit as he spoke out,

“Both of you would do well to keep your attention somewhere else. And you Tessa, how can you speak of your own brother like that?” the speaker being Lucas, Tessa & Nian’s cousin quickly looked away knowing it wasn't wise to anger the one the clan head doted on the most.

Tessa frowned, then snickered as she shrugged,

“Fine brother, but know that I will never feel that he is my brother.”

Nian looked down with a saddened look on his face. He had indeed not shown any care as he didn't want to be a Mancer or a celebrity in Shift Battles.

His true dream was to become an artist, as he had a natural talent for art that not even his prodigal brother Lucas could compare to. Even then, within a clan of Shift Battle Mancers, his exceptional talent was useless.

Before long, the furnished and exquisite room lit up as several adults walked in, some wearing dresses, others in suits. The children looked over to them, and the adults looked back with pride. Showing that these adults were in fact the parents of children who were a part of the branch family of the Meris Clan. Lucas and Tessa’s mother stood proudly as they remained silent.

Soon after, Mr. Flays walked in and announced.

This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

“The clan head has arrived with the seniors. please pay your respects.”

Soon after, a man wearing a fancy looking suit was followed by 10 young men and women who seemed to be 18 to 20 walked out and lined up beside a luxurious chair placed in the middle of the room.

The man with a straight yet prideful look seemed to be in his 50’s, yet everything about him was sharp and strong; even his mustache seemed perfect. He had dark brown hair and it was combed in a calm fashion.

The man walked over and sat on the chair as everyone remained silent. He opened his mouth and spoke,

“It has been 150 years since our ancestors created this Meris Clan, and for many years our bloodline has grown stronger and purer. We have also worked hard to maintain our prestige and fame as well as amass strength.” He continued as he looked over the people gathered.

When my father allowed me to be head of the clan, I thought I could not handle it, but my inner Meris allowed me to keep order and surpass him as a leader. Now, fast forward to today, the new generation, all of you are ten years of age.

After today, you will join your older siblings in the prestigious Star Mancer Academy. I hope you will all work hard, and one day achieve your own status as Shift Battle celebrities, as well as help carry this clan to greatness.”

As he spoke those words, the man being Tessa, Lucas, and Nian’s father, gazed at Lucas as if those last words were spoken to him. Lucas gave a sharp look and a faint smile as he nodded slightly.

The man soon spoke,

“My name is Ailred Meris, and I hope and pray that like my name is known, one day your names shall be known as well”. As Ailred finished speaking, he raised his hand and snapped his fingers.

Soon the floor seemed to split and melt as a large pedestal rose with a glowing metallic surface. An orb seemed to grow out from the metal surface with a transparent look. Ailred then stood up and made his way over to the orb.

“Listen well new generation. As you know, this is a Hope Gene orb, created to help show if one has a Hyper ability or not.“ as Ailred spoke, he placed his hand on the orb which began to shine a deep crimson red. He then spoke.

“Our family has a Fate Hyper Ability known as Red Flame. We can manipulate this flame using the energy around us or the energy of our Mancer. This flame is hotter than a blue flame, and can be manipulated into many shapes. Futhermore, it will increase one’s strength.”

Ailred released his hand from the orb before he raised the very same hand opening his palm before a rod like energy shot up from the center of his hand then reshaped as if it were alive. it formed into a large longsword that emitted a deep red fiery glow.

“My Red Flame is considered A rank in level. I hope you will one day match or surpass me.” he said as he wore a proud smile on his face.

The children began to whisper to each other. Ailred dispersed the red flame blade before walking over and taking his seat. Mr. Flays then walked over and spoke out.

“When your name is called out, please approach the orb and place either hand on it.”

After several seconds, he called out the first name.

“Lynal!”

The young boy from the opposite end of Nian made his way over and looked around nervously.

Seeing his parents nod with pride, he forced a smile before touching the hope gene orb. A second later, a soft reddish color began to form before claps echoed . Mr Flays then spoke out as he took out a tablet like device and spoke.

“F Rank, Red Flame. Good, now then, Fretton!”

As the next individual went up with a bit of pride, the same situation appeared as he got the same result. From then on, one by one names were called up until it had reached Tessa.

“Tessa Meris, your turn.”

At the mention of her name everyone remained quiet. Tessa grinned before stepping up; she laughed.

“I don't need some stupid orb to tell me I'm gifted.”

Extending her left hand out, a Red Flame began to surge faintly forming a twisted looking short sword. Immediately people began to clap with excitement and speak to each other from surprise regarding Tessa.

Mr. Flays chuckled.

“Very good. Truly a prodigy, but please touch the orb so we may measure your Red Flame.”

Shrugging, Tessa did as he asked before a fairly well lit red color appeared.

“Very good, E rank Red Flame.” Mr. Flays announced.

With the smile and look of satisfaction Tessa got from her father Ailred, she went back and lined up.

“Lucas!..” Mr. Flays called out.

Everyone remained silent wondering how well the boy everyone called a prodigy would do. Lucas had shown intelligence, strength, and calmness, as well as diligence in many situations that his seniors and others approved of.

Lucas quietly made his way to the Hope Gene orb. He extended his left hand onto the orb while his right opened up. At the same time the orb began to glow a light white and crimson color, a surge of living white and red flame danced around his right arm before forming a longsword. Although not close to his father's, it was still enough to stun everyone.

Ailred immediately stood up with opened eyes.

“T….two Hyper abilities?”

Lucas’s mother on the sidelines couldn't help but show a proud expression as the white color was thanks to her hyper ability known as Light Flow.

Not only did it allow one to bend and manipulate light, it could also be used to heal wounds. Mr. Flays gazed at Lucas, shocked as Lucas shared the surprise and quiet expression on everyone's face. Tessa’s eyes widened as she clenched her fists before pouting quietly and folding her arms.

Nian’s mouth opened up from surprise as well, as happiness for Lucas. Ailred gulped as he turned to Mr. Flays.

“What does it say?!” speaking with eagerness.

Mr. Flays nervously looked at the tablet as his eyes nearly bulged out from the device he wore.

“D..rank….Red Flame...and Light Flow.”

At that very moment, everyone erupted as they spoke to each other trying to wonder how this had happened.

Ailred gave a shout like laugh that quieted everyone down.

“Family members, look at young Lucas, he will surely lead the new generation to greatness. I hope you seniors will teach him well.”

The individuals lined up beside ailred all nodded trying to recover from the shock.

Lucas walked back and took his position as Nian replied quietly in a whisper. “W… what, you were hiding how good you were.” Lucas gave a soft chuckle and Tessa soon spoke. “Hmph, just watch I'll overtake you in the Red Flame don't be too big headed.” she spoke in a hypocritical manner.

Soon as everyone calmed down Mr. Flays spoke. “Nian!” everyone remained quiet as they all knew who Nian was although he had some talent in art, it didn't matter for their family. Nian who was nearly sweating bullets made his way forward.

Lucas whispered quietly. “Don't worry, in the end you're still blood and you will get the Red Flame.” Nian turned and looked at Lucas before building up the courage to nod and smile. Nian than proudly walked over and placed his right hand onto the orb.

One second, two seconds, three seconds, and soon a whole minute of no change as well as quiet remained. It wasn't that anyone wanted to interrupt him or wait, it was that after the five second mark everyone was just too shocked to say anything this was simply unheard of.

Nian who had lost his courage and was nearly on the verge of tears looked up at Ailred whose expression remained straight. “F...father I...” before he finished Ailred called out. “Bring a White Key!”

Immediately an individual came and gave Mr. Flays a box with the Meris emblem on it. Mr. Flays then went over and placed the box on the surface near the orb. He spoke quietly, “Nian open the box and eat the White Key then touch the orb after ten seconds.”

Nian did as he asked without issue. He picked up the mass of energy that made his fingers tingle before placing it in his mouth. As soon as it entered the energy seemed to liquefy, causing Nians mouth to tingle as it slid down his throat fusing into his body on it's way down.

Nians heart began to beat faster as he desperately hoped this would work. He couldn't even bare to face Lucas or even Tessa who was most likely enjoying this. He didn't even dare to look at his father unless he had a positive result.

“Touch it.” Ailred spoke out with no worry in his voice. Nian without looking him in the eye did so, placing his hand again on the orb. One second, two seconds, three seconds until 20 seconds passed people began to chatter in shock at Nian having no Hyper ability whatsoever.

“Silence!” Ailred called out which immediately silenced everyone. “Go back in line” Ailred spoke to Nian in a tone that showed disappointment. Nian shakily made his way as he stood beside Lucas who also didn't know how to react.

Even Tessa was trying her best not to grin as she was over the moon that something good had come of this.

“Tomorrow you will all leave to Star Mancer Academy. Every month you will be given a Devourer core based on your improvement. Lucas will receive a D rank Devourer core per month, Tessa an E rank Devourer core per month, and everyone else a F rank devourer core per month. I wish you all luck.” with that said Ailred no longer wanting to stay immediately stood up and left in a disappointed manner.

Soon chatter began to continue before everyone spoke about the three who caused a stir today. “N... Nian don't worry… even without a Hyper ability you can become great.” Lucas tried to console Nian who silently cried as tears streamed down his cheek.

Tessa gave a soft laugh before speaking as she and their cousins walked off. “Don't waste your time on useless trash.” she spoke before disappearing into the group of adults to speak to her mother.

“I...I can't believe it… no… Red Flame… nothing… I… I failed.” he mumbled to himself. Lucas remained silent and was about to speak before his mother walked over, “Lucas dear let's go.” she gave Nian a disgusted look before placing her hand on Lucas shoulder and escorting him away.

Lucas only glanced sadly at Nian who was left alone. Mr. Flays walked over and gave him a pat on the shoulder. “Young master don't worry. This only means you need to work twice as hard, I'm sure you will do well.”

Nian wiped his tears and clenched his fist as he nodded. “Twice as hard… I'll do it… I won't draw anymore I'll focus on training… I'll prove I can still be valuable to the clan...” Mr. Flays laughed softly and nodded. “Very good, let me help you prepare for tomorrow there's quite a bit you probably don't know about the academy.”

(A.N: if you guys have any questions or comments please let me know or post as i read all my comments. but please try to refrain from begging for spoilers ;p )

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