In the ancient lore of the world, the Olden Spirits of Wind, Water, Fire, Earth, Nature, Light, and Darkness were revered as ethereal beings that embodied the very essence of their respective elements. Passed down through generations, the mythos surrounding these Olden Spirits wove tales of their origins, their powers, and their influence on the world. What was once considered firmly held beliefs have now given way to the modern religions of the Dashotas, the Ten Gods.
Now, let us take a look at the Olden Spirits whose existence is commonly agreed upon in the mythos.
The spirit of the Wind, known as Zephyr, was said to be a playful trickster. Legends spoke of Zephyr as a mischievous companion who delighted in rustling leaves, whispering secrets through the breeze, and guiding lost souls towards their destinies. Zephyr's airy touch was believed to bring luck and inspiration, while its ferocious gusts were feared as a harbinger of storms. It is said to have created the air and the breeze and the winds.
The spirit of Water was known as Undine, a graceful entity that epitomized the calming, fluid nature of this element, created from its very being. Legends recounted Undine's soothing presence near lakes, rivers, and oceans, bestowing tranquility upon those who sought solace in its depths. Tales spoke of Undine's ability to heal ailments, cleanse the impurities of body and soul, and nurture life with its gentle caress.
Ignis, the spirit of Fire, was revered for its powerful and transformative nature. Folklore told of Ignis as a radiant entity, dancing amidst flickering flames and casting warm light upon the darkness. The spirit's ferocity was both respected and feared, for while it brought warmth, sustenance, and the forging of new beginnings, it also possessed the capacity to consume and destroy. Ignis was especially revered in wintry lands, where the fire was the only solace at times.
Gaia, the spirit of Earth, was venerated as the benevolent caretaker of the natural world. Myths described Gaia as a nurturing force, embodying the strength and stability of the land beneath our feet. Stories spoke of Gaia's connection to all living beings, safeguarding the delicate balance of ecosystems and embodying the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Sylvanus, the spirit of Nature, held a prominent place in ancient folklore. It was believed to be an ancient and wise entity, the embodiment of forests, meadows, and all living things. Tales recounted Sylvanus as a guardian of the wilderness, possessing the ability to commune with animals, nurture plants, and maintain harmony within the delicate tapestry of the natural world.
Lumina, the spirit of Light, was hailed as a radiant beacon of purity and enlightenment. Legends depicted Lumina as a celestial entity, illuminating the world with its brilliance and guiding lost souls towards the path of righteousness. The spirit was associated with wisdom, knowledge, and the revelation of hidden truths, casting out shadows and offering hope in times of darkness.
Lastly, Umbra, the spirit of Darkness, existed as a mysterious and enigmatic force. It was seen as the counterpart to light, representing the hidden realms, the secrets of the night, and the depths of the subconscious. It is said that the faes and spirits that are hidden to the human eye seek refuge under Umbra. Mythology painted Umbra as both a guardian of the unseen and a source of uncertainty, revealing the duality inherent in the shadows.
These Olden Spirits, with their unique mythologies and powers, continue to fascinate …
Emilio’s eyes ran over word after word, fascinated. He was rarely ever interested in learning about the Spirits or the Gods. It was not like he was an atheist. He did believe in the existence of Gods. But the faith was not as manic and fervent in Aleoria as it was in some other parts of the Continent. Aeloria was a nation that was created on the powers of Light and Darkness. People here had diverse sets of beliefs, they followed different Gods, though the Dashotas were the most commonly followed, even by the nobility. Except for some occasional visits to the temple, he never paid attention to the Gods, let alone the Olden Spirits.
But it truly was fascinating. Apparently, these were the most commonly agreed names and powers, because some records were found in the Arcane books written by people who revered the Spirits. Of course, there were many interpretations and translations made by the people. Some believe in their existence, and some deny them completely. The nay-sayers argue that if there were such Ancient Beings as Spirits who were here since the beginning, then where were they? Why did humans worship Gods instead of them? Why was it that it was the Gods who sent divinity down upon humans during the War against Necromancers and started the Age of the Gods?
He turned pages, as the book started to discuss the modern and traditional beliefs surrounding the Olden Spirits.
In the realm of modern and traditional beliefs, opinions and interpretations regarding the existence and influence of the Olden Spirits of Wind, Water, Fire, Earth, Nature, Light, and Darkness diverge among the people. Some hold steadfast to ancient traditions, fervently believing in the tangible presence and intervention of these Olden Spirits, while others view them as mere figments of imagination or symbolic representations of natural forces.
For those who embrace the traditional beliefs, the Olden Spirits are seen as divine beings who played a pivotal role in the creation and ongoing direction of the world. According to their beliefs, the Olden Spirits shaped the elements, imbued them with their essence, and continue to oversee the intricate balance of the natural order. These believers often pay homage to the Olden Spirits through rituals, offerings, and prayers, seeking their blessings, guidance, and protection.
In these traditional beliefs, the Olden Spirits are believed to possess distinct personalities, goals, and realms of influence. They are seen as sentient entities capable of interacting with humans, animals, and other elements of the world. These believers attribute natural phenomena, such as gentle breezes, turbulent storms, flourishing forests, and life-giving waters, to the direct influence and manifestations of these Olden Spirits.
However, in the modern world, skepticism, Arcane theories and religious beliefs have led many to question the existence of such entities. They interpret the stories of the Olden Spirits as mythologies and allegories, symbolic representations of the awe-inspiring power and beauty of the natural world. These individuals often approach the elements with a mana-imbued lens, seeking arcane explanations for natural phenomena and dismissing the notion of anthropomorphic Olden Spirits.
Yet, even among the skeptics, there remains an appreciation for the symbolism and metaphorical value associated with the Olden Spirits. They recognize the power of these mythologies as cultural touchstones, inspiring creativity, moral lessons, and a deep connection to nature.
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Regardless of one's stance, the tales of the Olden Spirits continue to hold sway over the collective consciousness. Whether viewed as literal entities or as allegorical representations, the belief in these Olden Spirits serves to foster a reverence for nature, an understanding of the delicate balance of ecosystems, and a reminder of the profound interconnectedness between humans and the natural world. Many theorists believe-
“Brother, I am back!”
Emilio looked up from the book to see Jeremiah rushing inside, Balsea and Ronald following suit. He had not been allowed to go out today, with strict orders from Healer Adron, despite Emilio insisting he would be fine.
“I do not want you to come back with broken bones or burns again before you have healed already.”
So, Emilio gave up. He ended up staying in the infirmary and reading the books Balsea brought for him. Jeremiah, on the other hand, decided to follow Balsea in the classes when the fae came to see him. Emilio urged him to, despite him insisting on staying with his big brother. It would not be good to stay cooped up inside and since he was here already, he could take a look at the classes he would be attending in a few years’ time. He had sent Ronald with the boy to keep an eye on him. Gods knew Balsea could be enthusiastic.
“Welcome back, Jeremiah!” He said as he sat up properly. “How was it? Did anything interesting happen today?”
Jeremiah immediately shook his head. “No. Not really. But I had fun listening to the lectures! Though I could not understand half of it.”
He pouted. Emilio smiled and ruffled his hair. “The fact that you understood the other half is impressive. This is way above your learning level.”
“Brother!” Jeremiah whined as he flattened his hair and then grinned up at him. He began to chatter happily with Emilio.
Emilio noticed Ronald and Balsea exchanging glances with each other. But he could not really inquire them on it since Jeremiah was here. He decided he would ask Balsea later and then lost himself in chatting with his brother. They ended up playing some board games and then reading books together until it was approaching sunset.
It was time for Jeremiah to go.
The boy was clearly reluctant but he did not try to stay today. He knew he could not miss more lessons. Father would not allow it. But he did embrace for a solid ten minutes before he had to leave. Balsea and Emilio ended up escorting them to the Portal Station that day and bidding them farewell.
After that, Emilio was forced to stay in the infirmary for two more days. Balsea brought him food and homework, as well as more books on the Spirits and the Gods. All of that kept his mind off things. Sebastian visited him a few more times, and so did Auntie Ayesha. The Herbology Professor - Professor Gias - visited him as well, informing him that he could start the research work next week.
For some reason, Sal did not seem to like Sebastian. He would always hiss at the boy. Emilio suspected he would have jumped on the guy if not for Emilio who was resolutely holding him back.
“I don’t like him.”
“Why?”
“I don’t know. It’s just a feeling.”
“Is it because he flirts with me at times? Tries to get close to me?”
“No. Don’t be ridiculous.”
Emilio would chuckle and wave his concerns off. Sebastian was the calmest person he had ever met. Sal’s worries were unfounded.
The day he was allowed to attend classes was the day before the weekend. He was relieved to get out of the infirmary and attend his classes again. That day, he finally went to the Student Hall for lunch again, deciding that he could not avoid the place forever, despite how nervous he was.
He just hoped he could eat peacefully.
His hopes were in vain.
“How does it feel to be stumped by your little bastard half-brother?”
Hans Klevin was standing in front of him with a smug grin on his face, leaning over the table where Emilio and Balsea sat with their food.
“What?” Emilio blinked up at him blankly.
The boy scoffed. “You don’t even know?” He straightened and looked around. “Hear that? His brother humiliated him in front of everyone and he doesn’t even know! Honestly, how stupid can you be?”
Emilio turned to Balsea. “What is he talking about?” He asked. He was sure Jeremiah would never deliberately do anything to harm or insult him.
Balsea sighed. “Jeremiah got the first mana control exercise on his sixth try.”
Emilio stared at him for a moment. First mana control exercise. It was a famous exercise that everyone knew about. It was one of the first and most important tests to see if you had the aptitude for mana manipulation and the talent to stay in the Academy. It was a very simple test. You just had to create an orb with your own mana. You had to use your own hand as a conduit for the mana and gather it on your palm to create a stable orb and then you had to release the orb into the air and make it float for 10 seconds while maintaining its shape.
It sounded simple. But it was very hard. Even if you had learned to regulate your mana, condensing it outside your body in the thin form of an orb needed skill and concentration, the likes of which the first years would never have done before. That itself took an average student dozens of tries. And after you managed to form the orb, it would pop the moment you let go unless you knew how to maintain your mana without touching it. Mastering that took anywhere from a day to months. Not to mention, commoners who managed to get in through the entrance exams also had to learn to find and regulate their mana first. That was why their classes started even before the official year for the nobility started. The longest time recorded for one to learn the orb making exercise was six months.
And Jeremiah did it on his sixth try?
The only living people that held such records were the Archmaster and Duke Sullivan, who took three and seven tries respectively.
Usually, he would have to stamp down on his resentment. But remembering how quickly the boy had answered, how easily his little brother had hidden his accomplishment in fear of making him sad… Emilio could feel nothing but heartache and pride.
“I see.” He grinned at Balsea. “Isn’t he a little genius? He will definitely become an Archmaster!”
A cruel laugh sounded above him. Emilio’s smile dimmed and he looked up at Hans, who was smirking down at him.
“Look at this idiot. Laughing at his own ruin, after being trampled down on his bastard of a bro-”
The boy could not continue that sentence. Emilio mimicked what his mom had done all that time ago and threw the boul of soup right into the boy’s face. Hans had no time to dodge and was now drenched in hot broth.
“Don’t you dare speak about my brother like that, you bastard!”