Back at the Kaguno residence, Yuri and Ren had walked into the courtyard and could see Mizuno meditating while Yuki and Aurora were watering the garden.
"We're finally back!" Ren announced their presence.
"Oh my baby!" Yuki said as she ran over to Yuri and gave him a loving hug.
"Mom… I can't breathe." Yuri said while gasping for air.
"You'll be fine." His mom said as she kept hugging.
Aurora, Yuri's sister walked over and gave Yuri a hug as well.
"Since you're back you want to go shopping?" Aurora said.
"Sure, let me shower first then I have to talk with dad and grandpa about something, then we can go." Yuri said as he rested his hand atop her ahead, the strands of her hair danced and swirled at the whim of his gentle stir.
"Ok!" Aurora said cheerfully as she stopped hugging him and went back to watering the garden.
"Yuri, my boy! You're finally back. How was Mythmere Forest?" Mizuno said as he walked over.
"It was good, me and grandpa had a lot of fun and I fought many beasts." Yuri replied with a smile on his face.
'Fucking geezer, I don't even know what forest he took me to. It definitely wasn't Mythmere.'
"Good, and we should spar tomorrow. I want to see how you've progressed."
"Sure, in the morning sounds good?"
"Yup, 6:00 am is fine with me. Now go shower and meet us in the office." Mizuno said as he laughed.
"Yes sir." Finishing the heartfelt reunion with his family Yuri went to wash up.
Refreshed, he then found his way to his dad's office, where his father and grandfather awaited, their faces alight with the wisdom of generations.
The air was thick with anticipation. The walls, lined with ancient tomes and artifacts, seemed to whisper secrets of power and potential. Mizuno, seated behind an ornate desk carved with elemental symbols.
"Yuri," Mizuno began.
"Mysticadia Academy is more than a school; it's a gateway to mastering the forces that weave through Xerov.
Yuri leaned in, his eyes reflecting the flicker of candlelight, eager to learn of the place that held the keys to his future.
"The 'Primal Realm' serves as a natural checkpoint in a cultivator's journey. The reason one cannot simply bypass this realm without the guidance of the Academy lies in the existence of the 'Primordial Nexus', which is a powerful core of elemental energy that resides within the academy's sanctum. The 'Primal Nexus' is not just a source of power; it is a living testament to the ancient pact between the elements and the founding fathers of the academy. It is said that the founders channeled the essence of Xerov into the Nexus, creating a focal point that harmonizes an individual's elemental energy with the world's primal forces."
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He paused, allowing his words to sink in.
"Now, the academy just doesn't help you jump start your path to cultivating but also to unlocking your class." Mizuno continued, his hands gesturing as if painting the very picture of the academy's structure.
"Elementalists, this class choice would amplify their innate affinity, granting them superior control, enhanced power, and specialized techniques that others without the class cannot access. From the fiery might of Pyromancers to the subtle grace of Aquamancers, each finds their strength within the academy's walls."
Mizuno's gaze shifted to a crystal globe, depicting swirling energies. "Then there are the Enchanters, who weave mana into objects, creating wonders of magical utility. The Sigilwardens with their protective wards, the Charmcrafters with their potent talismans, and the Inscriptors whose runes can alter the very fabric of reality."
He turned to a window, looking out into the sky. "And let's not forget the Beast Tamers, those with a kinship to the creatures of our world. They form bonds that transcend the physical, from the Mythic Tamers to the Dragon Whisperers."
Mizuno stood, his presence commanding yet comforting. "The Warriors hone their physical prowess, becoming one with their weapons, while the Scholars delve into the arcane, seeking knowledge that others dare not."
He approached a shelf, retrieving a vial filled with a glowing substance. "The Healers are our lifeline, their skills ranging from the battlefield-ready Combat Medics to the purifying Lightbringers."
Finally, Mizuno's eyes met Yuri's. "And for those who tread the shadows, the Veil Operatives offer a path of stealth and subterfuge. There are many classes, some rarer than others. It all comes down to innate elemental affinity, bloodline heritage, your destiny and cosmic events."
Yuri absorbed every word.
"When you reach the 'Initiate's Threshold Realm,' the academy will reveal your true class, unlocking abilities that will define your journey," Mizuno concluded, a hint of pride in his voice.
As the candlelight danced across the room, Yuri felt a surge of determination.
"The academy starts in one month, but everyone has to take the entrance exam a week before. Which means you have this week to prepare and have fun with family, next Monday is when you will set out for the academy. It'll take 3 days to reach Moonhaven which is the capital of Eldoria." Ren said finally joining in the conversation.
"I won't let you guys down. You'll hear of my achievements all the way from the capital." Yuri said.
"I'm sure we will, but hurry and go shopping with your sister. I don't want her to be mad at me, she's almost as scary as your mom." Mizuno said as he let out a hearty laugh.
"Mom scares you that much?"
"YES" Ren and Mizuno both said at the same time.
"She is not to be messed with. You'll see one day." Mizuno said as he walked Yuri to the door.
"Hopefully I don't, but I'll see you tomorrow morning. Don't forget our morning spar." Yuri said as he exited the office.
"I won't." Mizuno said before closing the office door
After Yuri left the office, he went downstairs to meet his sister and go shopping. Ren and Mizuno stayed in the office and had a few words.
"That kid is going to have a good future. He's strong for his age and he will only continue to get stronger. I don't know his innate potential or what class he will get, but I'm positive that he'll come out of the academy a powerhouse. I just hope he progresses fast enough to survive what's coming." Ren said.
"I hope so..."