Chapter 16: The Art of Summoning
The afternoon sun filtered through the tall windows of the University of Varsovia, casting a warm glow across the lecture hall. After the intense History of the Commonwealth class, Robert found himself brimming with thoughts and theories, his mind still processing the details of Professor Reinhardt’s intricate discussion of the Treaty of Varsovia. However, he had no time to linger on those thoughts—his next class, Summoning Theory, demanded his full attention.
The room for Summoning Theory was already bustling with students as Robert arrived. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and curiosity, as this subject was widely regarded as one of the most fascinating and demanding courses at the University. He took a seat near the center, setting down his notebook and quill. The walls were adorned with diagrams of various summoning circles, from basic elemental circles to complex designs meant for binding powerful entities.
Today’s class promised to be more than just theoretical concepts; there would be a practical demonstration to reinforce the lessons. Robert’s gaze drifted to the front of the room, where a tall man with a stern expression and neatly combed silver hair was preparing his materials. The professor exuded an aura of authority and confidence, his sharp eyes scanning the room as if measuring each student’s potential.
“Welcome to Summoning Theory,” the professor began, his voice firm and commanding. “I am Professor Gramsci, and I will be guiding you through both the theory and practical application of summoning magic. This subject is not merely about learning spells and constructing circles—it is about understanding the very nature of the entities you will summon, the bonds you will create, and the dangers you will face.”
Professor Gramsci turned to the chalkboard, where he sketched a simple diagram of a basic containment circle. “Before we delve into complex summoning circles and advanced spells, we must first establish a clear distinction between direct summoning and circle-based summoning.”
He tapped the chalkboard, highlighting the inner lines of the circle. “Direct summoning—such as raising a basic undead skeleton or calling forth a lesser spirit—requires no physical circle. These entities are inherently bound to the caster’s will through a simple spell. You channel your MP, form the spell, and the entity appears. But remember, these are the simplest of summons, entities with limited power and autonomy.”
Robert leaned forward, his attention fully on the professor. This was a distinction that many novice mages often failed to grasp. He had experienced it firsthand in Dracaena, where he had summoned and controlled simple skeletons using nothing more than a basic incantation. But the challenges of summoning more powerful beings were a different matter entirely.
“However,” Professor Gramsci continued, drawing a series of runes around the circle’s edge, “more powerful entities, such as elementals, higher-level undead, and stronger beasts, require a more structured approach. For these summons, you must construct a summoning circle—an intricate framework that channels and stabilizes the flow of MP. The circle serves as a containment field, a control point, and a conduit for your will.”
He stepped back, allowing the students to take in the detailed design of the summoning circle. “Today, we will focus on constructing a basic summoning circle for lesser elementals. Though not as dangerous as higher-tier beings, these creatures still possess enough power to cause significant damage if the summoning is mishandled.”
Robert began copying the diagram into his notebook, his quill moving swiftly as he noted each rune’s placement and the precise measurements of the circle’s radius. He’d seen variations of this circle before in his studies, but Professor Gramsci’s design was more refined, with subtle enhancements that increased the containment field’s stability.
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“Now,” the professor said, his gaze sweeping across the room, “I want each of you to construct a basic summoning circle using the materials provided at your workstations. Once you have completed your circle, we will proceed to the summoning phase.”
The room buzzed with activity as students moved to their assigned desks. Robert picked up a piece of chalk and began outlining the circle on the etching table. His strokes were deliberate and precise, each line forming a perfect curve. He added the containment runes, spacing them evenly along the outer edge of the circle, just as Professor Gramsci had instructed.
Satisfied with the initial structure, he placed his hands on the table and began channeling his MP into the design. The lines glowed softly, the runes pulsing as they absorbed the energy. He felt the familiar hum of magical energy as it flowed through him and into the circle.
Slowly, the circle stabilized, its light steady and strong. Robert studied it closely, checking for any irregularities in the energy flow. It was stable, but he knew it could be better. He adjusted the placement of one of the runes, shifting it a few millimeters to the left. The circle pulsed, the energy flow becoming smoother.
‘That’s more like it,’ he thought, a faint smile of satisfaction crossing his lips. He continued refining the circle, adding minor runes along the inner edge to strengthen the containment field. Each addition enhanced the stability, making the circle more efficient at channeling and containing MP.
“Excellent work,” Professor Gramsci’s voice interrupted his thoughts.
Robert looked up to see the professor standing beside his desk, his sharp gaze focused on the circle. “You’ve managed to balance the containment field and the energy flow quite well. Most first-years struggle with this level of control.”
“Thank you, Professor,” Robert replied evenly. “I’ve had some prior experience with summoning circles.”
“I can see that,” Gramsci said thoughtfully. “But remember, summoning is not just about control. It’s about understanding the nature of the entity you wish to summon. Each being has its own resonance, its own frequency. If you fail to match that resonance, no amount of control will make the summoning successful.”
Robert nodded, absorbing the professor’s words. This was new information—something that hadn’t been covered in his previous training. He made a mental note to research the concept of resonance further.
“Keep up the good work,” Gramsci said before moving on to the next student.
Robert returned to his circle, making a few final adjustments before stepping back to evaluate his work. The circle was stable, the runes perfectly aligned. He could feel the containment field humming softly, a sign that the energy was flowing smoothly.
“All right, students,” Professor Gramsci called out, his voice carrying easily through the room. “Now that you’ve constructed your circles, it’s time to proceed to the summoning phase. I want each of you to summon a lesser elemental using the incantation inscribed on the board. Focus on maintaining control and monitoring the containment field. If you notice any instability, reinforce the circle immediately.”
Robert turned his attention to the chalkboard, where the incantation was written in elegant script. It was a straightforward spell, designed to call forth a lesser elemental of air—a swirling wisp of wind that could serve as a messenger or scout.
He took a deep breath, steadying his mind. Then, he began to chant the incantation, channeling his MP into the summoning circle. The runes glowed brightly, and a faint breeze stirred the air within the circle’s boundary. Slowly, a wisp of wind began to coalesce at the center of the circle, its form shifting and twisting as it took shape.
The elemental shimmered, its translucent body swirling with currents of air. Robert could feel the resonance between himself and the entity—a faint but distinct connection that allowed him to sense its presence and intent.
‘Focus on the link,’ he reminded himself. He directed a small surge of MP into the circle, strengthening the connection. The elemental responded, its form stabilizing as the containment field held firm.
Professor Gramsci moved among the students, observing their progress. He paused briefly at Robert’s desk, his gaze assessing the stability of the summoning.
“Good control, Rest,” the professor remarked. “But remember to monitor the entity’s behavior. Elementals are prone to shifting their form when agitated. If it begins to destabilize, adjust your MP flow accordingly.”
“Yes, Professor,” Robert replied, his attention never wavering from the elemental.
The summoning exercise continued for several more minutes, with students practicing their control and making minor adjustments to their circles as needed. By the time the class ended, Robert felt a deep sense of satisfaction. This was only the first step, but it was a promising start.
As the bell rang, signaling the end of the class, Professor Gramsci addressed the room. “Well done, everyone. Continue refining your circles and practicing your control. Next time, we will work on summoning entities with more complex behaviors.”
Robert gathered his notes, feeling a sense of anticipation for the next class. Summoning had always been one of his favored disciplines, and with Professor Gramsci’s guidance, he was confident that his skills would only continue to grow.
The day was far from over, but Robert felt invigorated. There was still much to learn, and he intended to make the most of every opportunity.