The morning sun spilled through the window, its soft light warming Caelum’s face as he slowly stirred from sleep. For the first time since he’d arrived at Aetherion Academy, he had allowed himself to sleep in. It felt strange, almost luxurious, to let the day begin without the pressure of rushing to his next task. He blinked groggily, half-expecting Nyx to be perched by the window or nudging him awake with her usual morning energy.
Instead, he felt a weight pressing against his chest. Startled, he glanced down and saw Nyx curled into his side in her human form, her head resting on his chest, her body tucked beneath his arm. She was fast asleep, her chest rising and falling with the rhythmic sound of soft purring. Caelum’s heart skipped a beat—this was the first time Nyx had ever slept so close to him, let alone in her human form.
Carefully, he tried to shift out of bed without waking her, moving with deliberate gentleness. Nyx murmured in her sleep, curling tighter into a ball before finally rolling over, her face soft and peaceful as she settled back into sleep. The quiet sound of her purring continued, and Caelum couldn’t help but smile at the sight.
He crossed the room, reaching for his robes. As he dressed, he glanced back to find Nyx now fully awake, stretching languidly on the bed. Her golden and draconic eyes blinked lazily at him as she hopped down to the floor.
“Why didn’t you wake me?” Caelum asked, raising an eyebrow at her uncharacteristic silence that morning.
Nyx padded over to him, her soft voice, “We’ve both been through a lot these past few days, Master. It seemed like you needed the rest more than the morning walk.”
Caelum paused, reflecting on her words. She wasn’t wrong. It had been an intense few weeks—his arrival at Aetherion Academy, the formation of his Mana Vessel, and the rapid growth of his magical abilities. It was hard to believe that just two weeks ago, he had been a confused boy struggling to make sense of his new reality. Now, he stood at the threshold of becoming something more.
“You’re right,” he finally admitted. “A little extra sleep was probably a good idea.” He chuckled softly, fastening his robes. “Still, we shouldn’t make a habit of it.”
Nyx having shifted into her feline form rubbed against his leg, purring in agreement before hopping into his shadow, her figure disappearing as if she’d never been there. Together, they made their way out of the room, the cool morning air greeting them as they stepped into the quiet courtyard. The academy grounds were already stirring with life, but it was a peaceful kind of energy, one that matched the calmness Caelum felt within himself.
----------------------------------------
The walk to the library was a welcome change of pace. Without the pressing need to rush between classes or meet specific goals, Caelum found himself savoring the rare sense of freedom the morning offered. For the first time since he had arrived at Aetherion Academy, he didn’t have a strict schedule to follow. Professor Zarya hadn’t indicated if they would have their private elemental lesson today, leaving Caelum with an open day ahead of him—a novelty he had almost forgotten existed.
As the library loomed before him, its towering stone pillars casting long shadows across the courtyard, Caelum took in the sight of the massive building that housed so much knowledge. The air was cool and still, thick with the weight of wisdom waiting to be uncovered. His mind wandered as he thought about what he might study today—alchemy, arrays, perhaps something related to the new abilities his ocular magic had unlocked.
Near the front desk, Caelum spotted Lysandra, the head librarian, her face half-hidden behind a mountain of scrolls and tomes. Despite her imposing task of managing the vast collection of magical knowledge, Lysandra always had an air of calm about her, as if time flowed differently in her presence. When she saw Caelum, her lips curved into a knowing smile, and her eyes gleamed with a mixture of curiosity and amusement.
“Good morning, Caelum,” Lysandra greeted warmly, her voice as gentle as it was authoritative. “It’s not often I see you here so late in the day. I take it you’ve indulged in a rare luxury of sleeping in?”
Caelum grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Something like that,” he replied. He had never intended to sleep in, but between the rapid development of his magical powers and the responsibilities he had taken on with tutoring, it seemed his body had decided to give him the extra rest he didn’t realize he needed.
Lysandra’s gaze flicked down to the shadow at Caelum’s feet, where Nyx was tucked away in her feline form. Her emerald eyes blinked up at the librarian, as if acknowledging Lysandra’s presence without stirring from her comfortable spot. Lysandra’s smile deepened slightly at the sight of the familiar.
“You’ve earned it, Caelum,” she said, her voice thoughtful. “The progress you’ve made in such a short amount of time is nothing short of remarkable. But I wonder… have you given much thought to something more practical?”
Caelum raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the subtle shift in Lysandra’s tone. “Practical?” he echoed. “What do you mean?”
Lysandra set down the scroll she had been reading and leaned forward slightly, her eyes narrowing with a spark of insight. “Have you considered hunting in the woods?” she asked, her voice soft but direct. “It’s something many of the upperclassmen do to gain experience. They hunt small magical creatures, gather rare materials, and develop the skills they’ll need when they graduate.”
The suggestion caught Caelum off guard. He had spent nearly all of his time at the academy focused on his magical studies—learning about mana theory, enchanting, smithing, and his newfound ocular abilities. The idea of venturing into the wilderness to hunt magical creatures had never crossed his mind.
“Hunting?” Caelum repeated, frowning slightly. “I’ve never really thought about that. I’ve been more focused on—well, everything else.”
Lysandra’s smile softened, her tone becoming more instructional as if she were preparing to impart an important lesson. “It’s understandable,” she said. “The academy encourages deep study of magic, and it’s easy to get lost in the books, the forges, and the classrooms. But you mustn’t forget that magic is also a practical force in this world, one that exists beyond the walls of the academy. The woods are full of magical creatures—Spirit Class and Beast Class alike. And the materials you gather from these creatures can be invaluable for crafting, alchemy, enchanting… even body tempering.”
Caelum’s frown deepened as he absorbed her words. He had never truly considered what life beyond the academy would look like. His days had been so focused on improving his magical abilities and figuring out his place at Aetherion Academy that the idea of life after graduation felt distant, almost abstract.
Sensing his hesitation, Lysandra continued, her voice taking on a gentle but firm tone. “Many students find themselves facing a choice when they graduate, Caelum. And there are generally four paths they take. You would do well to start thinking about which one might suit you.”
Caelum’s curiosity was piqued now. “What are the paths?” he asked, genuinely intrigued.
Lysandra nodded, pleased that she had caught his interest. “The first path is for those who choose to pursue their studies independently. These students will often purchase property, set up a private estate, and continue their magical research on their own terms. This path is ideal for scholars, alchemists, enchanters—anyone who values the pursuit of knowledge or crafting above all else. They work in solitude, perfecting their craft and often selling their enchanted goods, potions, or magical services to fund their experiments.”
Caelum thought of Professor Malven and Professor Raelis—both of whom embodied this dedication to craft and study. He could easily see himself going down this path, especially with his growing interest in enchanting and forging.
Lysandra shifted in her chair, moving on to the second path. “The second path is for those who join the Kingdom’s Army. Many mages are needed to protect the kingdom’s borders from rival territories and the constant threat of magical beasts. Battle mages fight alongside infantry, using their magic to turn the tide of war and protect the kingdom from external threats. It’s a noble path, but a dangerous one. The army will take you far from Astral Haven City, often into places where magic itself is unstable or where beasts run wild.”
Caelum’s brow furrowed at the thought. While the prospect of using magic in battle was intriguing, the dangers involved seemed overwhelming. He had read about the chaotic, war-torn regions where the army fought off magical beasts, and while part of him admired the bravery of battle mages, it wasn’t a path he had ever imagined for himself.
“The third path,” Lysandra continued, her voice taking on a more solemn tone, “is for those who choose to align with one of the churches. The pursuit of divinity is a lifelong journey, and many mages devote their lives to it, seeking spiritual enlightenment through magic. Those who follow this path often become monks, priests, or magical scholars within the church. Their goal is to ascend beyond the mortal realm, using magic to bridge the gap between themselves and the divine. The rewards are great for those who succeed, but it is a path of deep discipline and sacrifice.”
Caelum was less sure about this path. The idea of following a religious or spiritual journey had never appealed to him. Magic, to him, was something that could be shaped and used—not a means of spiritual ascension. He couldn’t imagine spending his life in service to the gods or the churches, no matter how powerful the magic they wielded might be.
“And finally,” Lysandra said, her tone shifting to something more adventurous, “there are those who become Guild Mages. This is the path for those who crave the freedom to travel and explore. Guild Mages work with the Adventurers’ Guild, the Merchants’ Guild, or one of the Artisans’ Guilds—such as those for alchemy, arrays, potions, or enchanting. They spend their lives on the road, traveling from city to city, territory to territory, taking on jobs and quests for gold, reputation, and magical materials. It’s a path filled with danger, excitement, and opportunity.”
The idea of becoming a Guild Mage struck a chord with Caelum. The thought of traveling the world, seeing new places, and encountering magical creatures while honing his skills had a certain appeal. It was a life of freedom—one where he could learn by doing, without the restrictions of the academy.
“Of course,” Lysandra added, “many mages choose a combination of these paths. Some begin as battle mages or guild mages, then retire to a private estate to focus on their research. Others may serve in the army or the church, but take up crafting or enchanting on the side. The choice is yours, Caelum. And though graduation may seem far away now, it’s never too early to start thinking about where your journey will take you.”
Caelum considered her words carefully, the weight of the choices she described sinking in. He had never really thought about the future beyond the academy, but now that he was becoming more powerful, the idea of what came next was starting to loom larger.
“I’ve never really thought about what happens after graduation,” he admitted softly, more to himself than to Lysandra.
Lysandra’s smile was kind, her eyes filled with the wisdom of someone who had seen many students grapple with the same realization. “You will, in time,” she said gently. “But for now, it wouldn’t hurt to start exploring. In fact, Professor Virox often takes groups of students into the woods for just that purpose. If you’re free today, I’d suggest you see if he’s still preparing to leave. He generally leaves about this time from the rear gate”
Hunting magical creatures wasn’t something Caelum had ever seriously considered, but the opportunity to gain new skills and materials—and perhaps some insight into his own future—was appealing. He thanked Lysandra for her advice and made his way toward the courtyard by the back gate, where Lysandra said Professor Virox often gathered his hunting parties.
----------------------------------------
By the time Caelum reached the courtyard, a small group of students had already gathered. Their expressions flickered between anticipation and nervous energy, each one mentally preparing themselves for the task ahead. The muted chatter and shifting weight of bodies were signs that many of them were still inexperienced with what was to come, but it was clear they were eager to prove themselves.
At the front of the group stood Professor Virox, his broad shoulders and solid frame casting a commanding presence over the assembly. He was a man of few words, but his reputation preceded him—an expert hunter and a master of both physical and magical combat. His sharp eyes swept across the students as he gave his final instructions, his voice carrying easily despite its low, clipped tone.
Virox had the kind of presence that demanded respect, and even the most fidgety students stood still when he spoke. As Caelum approached, he waited patiently, listening to the professor’s brief explanations to the group about the day’s hunt.
When Virox finished, Caelum stepped forward respectfully. “Professor Virox,” he said, his voice clear but humble, “is it too late for me to join the hunt?”
Virox turned his gaze toward Caelum, his eyes narrowing for just a moment as he appraised him with a quick, practiced glance. “You’ve been spending a lot of time in the forge,” the professor noted gruffly, his words more observation than question. Without waiting for a response, Virox reached into the weapons rack nearby and handed Caelum a basic sword. The weapon was simple but reliable, its weight solid in Caelum’s hand. “You’ll need this. The woods aren’t like the forge. Keep up, stay alert, and watch your step.”
Caelum accepted the sword with a nod, feeling its familiar heft. He had trained with blades before, but the notion of using one in a practical situation—a real hunt—was new. The other students cast him quick glances, some curious, others anxious, but no one said anything as they began to move toward the woods.
As they walked, Virox took his place beside Caelum, his long strides purposeful but unhurried. The professor’s quiet confidence radiated off him, and Caelum found himself listening intently as Virox spoke in his low, steady tone.
“There are two main types of magical creatures you’ll encounter in these woods today,” Virox began, his voice carrying an undercurrent of experience. “Spirit Class creatures—things like Wisps, Spriggans, and Woodland Sprites—are elusive. They’re difficult to track and even harder to catch with physical weapons. You’ll need to rely on your magic to handle them effectively.”
Caelum nodded, his mind already running through what he’d read in the academy’s archives about these creatures. The Spirit Class beings were ethereal, their forms more magic than matter, making them tricky to deal with unless one knew how to manipulate mana efficiently. He had trained for this kind of magic, but reading about it and facing it in the wild were two entirely different things.
“And then,” Virox continued, “there are the Beast Class creatures. Things like Bramble Beasts, Nibblets, and Thistlebacks. These are more tangible, physical creatures—fierce, yes, but vulnerable to both magic and physical attacks. With these, you’ll need a combination of strength and magic to handle them properly.”
The trees were growing denser now, the air cooler as they approached the edge of the woods. Caelum could feel the slight change in temperature, the way the canopy of branches cast dappled shadows on the ground. His grip on the sword tightened as he prepared himself for the hunt ahead. But before he could lose himself in thought, Virox continued, this time in a more personal tone.
“This kingdom, Astral Haven, is peaceful compared to where I grew up,” Virox said, his voice a touch quieter but still carrying weight. “In my homeland, the High Mountains, the forest is alive with magic—ice-elemental beasts that can rob the heat from your very bones. Out there, you have the same two categories: Spirit and Beast. But unlike here, where the levels of the creatures are relatively predictable, the High Mountains are more treacherous. You could be tracking a pack of Level 1 Ice Golems, only to be ambushed by a Snow Leopard several levels above.”
Caelum blinked at the thought, picturing the brutal, frozen landscape that Virox described. The idea of hunting magical creatures in such a dangerous and unpredictable environment sent a thrill through him—one part excitement, one part trepidation.
“No matter which path you choose after you graduate,” Virox continued, his tone returning to its usual pragmatic cadence, “whether you become a hermit, a soldier, a religious devotee, or a guild mage, the sooner you start gaining real-world experience in the forest, the better off you’ll be. Books and theory are one thing, but out here—” he gestured to the trees ahead of them, “—this is where you learn what it means to survive. To use your magic and your strength when it truly matters.”
Caelum absorbed Virox’s words, understanding the underlying message. The academy could only teach him so much. Real growth, the kind that shaped a magician’s future, came from confronting the unknown, from learning through experience and failure. And though the kingdom might seem safe, there was always more to the world than what lay within the academy’s walls.
They entered the woods, the shadows deepening as the tall trees closed in around them. The air was cooler now, carrying with it the faint scent of damp earth and leaves. The students ahead of them moved with a mixture of caution and eagerness, some more comfortable than others as they adjusted to the shifting environment.
Caelum’s pulse quickened, the familiar hum of mana coursing through his veins as he prepared himself for what lay ahead. This hunt wasn’t just about catching magical creatures—it was about testing himself, seeing how far he had come and how much further he still had to go.
Virox’s voice broke through his thoughts once more. “Stay close. And remember—whatever you face today, it’s just the beginning. The forest always has more to teach.”
As they ventured deeper into the woods, Caelum felt the weight of the sword in his hand, the pulse of mana thrumming through him, and the awareness that this was his first real step into the unknown.
If you come across this story on Amazon, it's taken without permission from the author. Report it.
----------------------------------------
The forest buzzed with life, each breath of wind carrying the faint hum of mana through the trees. Caelum moved with purpose, his senses sharpened by the power flowing through him, his eyes glowing faintly as his ocular magic guided his every step. The world before him wasn’t just a dense thicket of trees and undergrowth—it was a tapestry of glowing energy. Every living thing, every hidden herb, every trace of magic was visible to him, the mana patterns unfolding in vibrant detail.
He had been walking for a while, his Level 4 space ring on his hand ready to store the spoils of the hunt. Unlike some of the other students who needed specialized mana crystals or enchanted containers to store magical creatures or their essence, Caelum had no such limitations. His space ring could store anything he collected, whether Spirit Class or Beast Class creatures, and it had more than enough capacity for his harvest. With it, every creature he caught would remain intact and undamaged, the perfect prize for later use in crafting or magical experimentation.
As he ventured deeper into the woods, his ocular vision picked up something nearby—a flicker of light, small and erratic. His eyes narrowed, focusing on the faint mana signature dancing through the underbrush. It was a Wisp, its faint glow barely visible to those without his enhanced vision. Its essence pulsed with raw magical energy, making it an ideal first target.
Caelum moved quickly, his steps silent as he approached the creature. The Wisp darted erratically, trying to remain hidden among the shadows, but it was no match for his wind magic. Caelum raised his hand, summoning a gentle breeze that wrapped around the Wisp like an invisible cage. The creature tried to flee, but Caelum’s control was too precise. With a flick of his wrist, he directed the air currents to herd the Wisp toward him.
As soon as the Wisp was close enough, Caelum reached out and let the magic of his space ring activate. The Wisp was drawn into the ring with a flash of light, disappearing entirely, its body stored securely within the enchanted space. No need for special containers or rituals—just a swift and efficient capture.
He smiled to himself, the thrill of the hunt setting in. This was just the beginning.
Continuing deeper into the forest, Caelum’s ocular magic revealed far more than just creatures. The landscape itself was full of hidden treasures that would have been impossible for him to detect before. Along the path, his eyes caught the faint glimmer of magical herbs, their mana signatures distinct now that he could see through their disguises. These were the same herbs he had read about in countless books, but his limited understanding of their properties had always made them difficult to identify in the wild.
Now, it was as if they called out to him.
He knelt beside a patch of Glowvine, a herb known for its ability to enhance enchantments when brewed into potions or ground into powders. With deft hands, he plucked several stems, carefully placing them into his space ring for safekeeping. Next to it, a cluster of Moonleaf glistened faintly, its silvery leaves shining under the canopy. Moonleaf was rare, prized for its restorative properties in healing potions and elixirs. Caelum collected as much as he could find, already envisioning the small garden he would start back in his expanded room—there would be space now, thanks to his recent experiments with the array.
His mind was abuzz with ideas as he moved from herb to herb, each one easily distinguishable now. What once had been a daunting task of sifting through plant life had become effortless. His ocular vision made each one glow with its unique mana signature, and he harvested a bounty of ingredients that could be used for potions, salves, or magical ink for arrays. This trip was turning out to be more than just a hunt for creatures—it was an opportunity to stockpile valuable materials for future work.
As Caelum pressed on, he came across a nest tucked under the thick roots of an ancient tree. His vision had picked up on the faint heat signatures and mana pulses coming from the ground beneath him. A soft rustling sound confirmed his suspicions—there were creatures here.
He crouched low, carefully peeling back the brush to reveal a den of Nibblets, their small, rabbit-like bodies huddled together in the darkness. Their oversized ears twitched, but they hadn’t noticed him yet. They were known for their quickness, capable of darting away at the slightest sound, but Caelum had no intention of letting them slip through his fingers.
He extended his hand, allowing mana to seep into the ground. With a controlled burst of earth magic, he caused the tunnel behind the den to collapse, cutting off their escape. The Nibblets scattered in panic, their tiny bodies scrambling to find an exit. But before they could escape through the front, Caelum’s blade was out in a flash. He infused it with a pulse of mana, its sharp edge humming with energy. A single sweep of his sword was enough to take out the creatures with precision, leaving their small bodies intact.
He swiftly collected the Nibblets and stored them in his space ring, their fur and organs would be useful for a variety of purposes later—alchemy, enchanting, even body tempering. Every part of these creatures could be valuable, and Caelum wasn’t going to let anything go to waste.
After dispatching the Nibblets, Caelum continued his search. The forest was dense with life, and his ocular magic revealed more and more as he pushed deeper into the wilderness. His senses picked up another den nearby, this one housing a larger creature.
Through the underbrush, he saw them—Thistlebacks, lumbering creatures with tough, spiny hides and thick mana-laced armor that made them difficult to deal with. These creatures were slow-moving but incredibly strong, and their hides were often used in protective gear due to their natural toughness.
Caelum considered his options. A direct approach with his sword would likely work, but it would take time to wear them down. Instead, he decided to combine his earth and wind magic. He summoned a gust of wind to kick up debris and leaves, momentarily confusing the Thistlebacks and drawing their attention away from him. Then, with a swift motion, he sank his mana into the earth, causing the ground beneath one of them to crack and shift. The creature stumbled, caught off guard by the sudden instability, and Caelum seized the opportunity.
With a burst of speed, he dashed forward, his sword gleaming with mana as he drove it into the Thistleback’s vulnerable underbelly. The creature let out a low grunt before collapsing, its heavy body hitting the ground with a dull thud. Caelum wasted no time, quickly collecting its body and storing it in his ring. The other Thistlebacks, sensing the danger, had already begun to lumber away, but Caelum wasn’t interested in pursuing them. One was enough for now.
As the morning wore on, Caelum stumbled upon several other dens and nests, each one offering a new challenge. He encountered a small pack of Bramble Beasts, their thorny hides bristling as they tried to ambush him from the shadows. But Caelum’s ocular vision revealed their positions before they could strike, and he dispatched them with ease, collecting their bodies for later use.
At one point, he found a secluded grove, where rare herbs grew in abundance. His eyes immediately locked onto a patch of Starblossom, its delicate petals shimmering with mana. Starblossom was a key ingredient in crafting mana-replenishing potions, and it was highly sought after by alchemists. He harvested every bloom he could find, carefully placing each one into his ring, imagining the garden he would cultivate once he returned to the academy.
By midday, his space ring was filled with a bountiful harvest of magical creatures and herbs. He had collected more than he had expected—both Spirit Class and Beast Class creatures, as well as rare materials that would prove invaluable in his future studies.
Caelum stood in the center of the forest, the thrill of the hunt still coursing through him. His sword rested at his side, and the air around him was alive with the faint whispers of mana. He had come here to test himself, to see how far he had come since his arrival at Aetherion Academy. And now, with his space ring full of new creatures, herbs, and his mind brimming with possibilities, he knew he had only just begun to scratch the surface of his potential.
With a satisfied smile, he turned back toward the groups camp, ready to return and face the next phase of his training.
----------------------------------------
----------------------------------------
After a brief lunch, the group gathered around a small campfire, their bellies full and their spirits high. The morning had been fruitful for many of the students, with the spoils of their hunts collected and stored, ready for assessment. Caelum sat near the edge of the circle, quietly reflecting on the morning’s success. His space ring now contained a vast assortment of magical creatures and herbs—more than he had initially expected to gather. But this was just the beginning.
Professor Virox stood, his imposing figure framed by the dappled light filtering through the canopy above. His expression remained as stern and focused as ever, but there was a certain satisfaction in his eyes as he surveyed the students. It had been a productive morning, but now it was time for something more practical—harvesting.
“All right,” Virox began, his voice cutting through the soft hum of conversation. “You’ve done well to catch and kill your prey, but the hunt doesn’t end there. The most valuable part of a creature is often what it can provide after its death—the essence, the materials, and the magic stored within its body. It’s time you learn how to make the most of these creatures.”
The students shuffled closer, their attention fully focused on Virox. Some were eager to learn, others apprehensive, but all knew the importance of the lesson that was about to unfold. Caelum, still flush with the excitement of his own hunt, leaned forward slightly, eager to absorb every word.
“First,” Virox said, pulling out the carcass of a Thistleback from his own space ring and laying it on the ground before them, “we’ll start with the basics—skinning. The hide of a Beast Class creature like this one is valuable, but if you don’t know what you’re doing, you’ll ruin it, and you’ll lose everything it can offer.”
He pulled a small knife from his belt—a blade with a blunt tip and a thick, curved edge. It wasn’t the kind of knife one would expect for butchering an animal, but Virox held it up with care. “This is a skinning knife. You’ll notice the tip isn’t sharp—this is to prevent you from puncturing the organs when you make your cuts. What you want is to separate the hide from the muscle and fat in one smooth motion, keeping the skin intact.”
With practiced ease, Virox knelt beside the Thistleback, pressing the blade against its tough hide. “First, make a circular cut around the anus—this is where you start. Be careful not to nick the intestines, or you’ll have a mess on your hands.” His knife worked quickly, cutting through the thick skin with precision. The students watched in silence, some grimacing at the grisly nature of the work.
“Next,” he continued, “you’ll make a single cut up the belly, from the anus to the sternum. This is where you’ll open the animal, and from here, you’ll pull the organs out.”
Virox’s hands moved efficiently, and within moments, the Thistleback’s body was split open, its organs exposed. He reached inside, severing the esophagus before pulling the intestines and other organs out in one smooth motion. The students watched, fascinated and horrified in equal measure.
“Now,” Virox said, “once the organs are out, you can begin separating the skin from the muscle and fat. It’s important to keep the details intact—lips, eyelids, feet—everything should remain undamaged if you want to get the full value out of it.”
He worked quickly, demonstrating how to peel the skin away, leaving behind the meat and bones. Caelum watched closely, mentally cataloging every step. He knew that the creatures stored in his space ring would soon be subject to the same process, and he wanted to make sure he did it right.
“This is the most basic method of harvesting a creature,” Virox continued as he finished the skinning process. “But we’re magicians. We have more tools at our disposal. Once the skinning is done, you have four options: Essence Extraction, Molecular Distillation, Essence Infusion, and Mana Weaving. Each has its own uses, and most times, you’ll use more than one technique to get the best results.”
Caelum leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued at the mention of magical harvesting. This was something he hadn’t yet studied in depth, but it was clearly important—especially for someone who intended to craft and enchant as much as he did.
Virox stood, holding the now-skinless Thistleback carcass up for the group to see. “We’ll start with Essence Extraction. Every magical creature carries within it a vital essence—its life force, the core of its magical energy. This can be extracted and used in a number of ways, most notably in the creation of mana crystals or potions that enhance magical abilities.”
He pulled out a small, circular device—a kind of crystal-powered ritual tool designed for extraction. “With this, you can draw the creature’s essence out and store it for later use. The essence of a low-level creature like this can be used for basic enchantments or alchemy, but the higher the level of the creature, the more potent its essence.”
Virox activated the device, and a soft hum filled the air as the magical energy inside the Thistleback’s body began to coalesce. The students watched in awe as the creature’s vital essence was drawn out, a glowing, golden light that was carefully funneled into a crystal at the center of the device.
“Essence Extraction is the most basic form of magical harvesting,” Virox explained, “but it’s also the most important. Without it, you lose the magical potential of the creature.”
Caelum watched intently, fascinated by the process. He had heard of Essence Extraction but had never seen it performed in person. The idea that a creature’s magical energy could be harvested in such a way opened up countless possibilities for him—enchantments, potions, even mana-imbued materials.
Once the extraction was complete, Virox set the crystal aside and moved on to the next technique.
“Next is Molecular Distillation,” he said, pulling out a small alchemical flask. “This is a specialized process that breaks the creature’s body down into its fundamental components—oils, powders, and other materials that can be used in crafting or spells. It’s especially useful for the more complex parts of a creature, like its organs or bones.”
He demonstrated the process, carefully placing the creature’s heart into the flask. The flask began to glow as the magic took hold, breaking the heart down into a thick, viscous liquid. “This oil, for instance, can be used in crafting potions or elixirs with regenerative properties.”
Caelum’s mind raced as he absorbed the information. The combination of magical and physical harvesting techniques was more complex than he had expected, but it was clear that mastering these skills would be invaluable for someone like him, who planned to delve deep into enchanting and alchemy.
“And then there’s Essence Infusion,” Virox continued, pulling out a small dagger. “This is where we take the creature’s essence and infuse it into an object—like a weapon or armor. This Thistleback, for example, has natural defensive magic in its hide. We can extract that magic and bind it to a piece of armor, making the armor more durable or even giving it elemental properties.”
He demonstrated by placing the Thistleback’s hide over the dagger, murmuring a few words as mana flowed from his hands into the blade. The dagger pulsed with energy, its edge now faintly glowing with the magical essence of the creature.
“Finally,” Virox said, “there’s Mana Weaving. This is a more advanced technique where we weave the creature’s mana directly into fabric or other materials. It’s commonly used in creating enchanted clothing or gear with protective or magical properties.”
With the creature fully harvested, Virox stood back and looked at the students. “Remember, you’ll want to use multiple techniques when you harvest a creature. Skin it first, extract its essence, distill its organs, and then use the remains for infusion or weaving. This way, nothing goes to waste.”
Caelum glanced at his space ring, feeling the weight of the unprocessed creatures waiting inside. The thrill of the hunt had been exhilarating, but now came the hard work—the harvesting, the crafting, the learning.
As the students began to process their own catches under Virox’s supervision, Caelum rolled up his sleeves. The task ahead was daunting, but he knew that every piece of knowledge gained here would bring him one step closer to mastery.
----------------------------------------
As Caelum watched Professor Virox guide the students through the complex and delicate process of magical harvesting, he felt both a sense of excitement and a hint of unease. The task before him wasn’t something he could approach carelessly—there was an art to extracting the full potential from a magical creature, and he had a lot to learn. Glancing down at his space ring, now filled with the bodies of Nibblets, Thistlebacks, and Spriggans, he knew he would have his hands full for the rest of the day.
Virox continued to walk the students through their first attempts at skinning and harvesting, offering advice where needed and correcting mistakes with the same gruff but measured tone. “Don’t rush it,” he said as one student fumbled with a Bramble Beast. “Every part has value, but you’ll lose it all if you cut carelessly.”
Caelum took the professor’s words to heart as he pulled out his first catch—a Spriggan, its bark-like skin still holding a faint shimmer of mana. He laid the creature carefully on the ground, recalling Virox’s instructions. This creature was more fragile than the others, its body a delicate balance of magical energy and natural elements. The process of harvesting would need to begin with Essence Extraction before he even attempted to skin it.
With steady hands, Caelum activated his Mana Vessel and let his magic flow through him. He extended his palm over the Spriggan, feeling the pulse of its residual magic. With a controlled release of mana, he began the process of drawing out the creature’s vital essence. The air around him shimmered, and a soft glow formed above the Spriggan’s body as the magical energy was carefully pulled from its form.
The essence gathered into a glowing orb, which Caelum swiftly channeled into his space ring for safekeeping. The Spriggan’s body, now devoid of its magical energy, became much easier to work with. He retrieved his skinning knife and followed Virox’s technique, cutting along the bark-like hide with precision. The trick, as the professor had said, was in keeping the details intact—the hands, the small branches that formed its limbs, and the natural patterns that ran along its back.
Caelum worked carefully, peeling away the layers of bark while leaving the underlying muscle and natural fibers untouched. The process took longer than expected, but by the end, he had successfully separated the skin from the rest of the body, leaving the remains ready for Molecular Distillation.
As he placed the hide and the remaining parts of the Spriggan into his space ring, he took a deep breath, satisfied with the results. The thrill of the hunt was nothing compared to the satisfaction of fully utilizing the creature’s magical potential. He could already imagine the possibilities of Essence Infusion and Mana Weaving, the steps that would turn these raw materials into something extraordinary.
----------------------------------------
The afternoon sun had started its slow descent when Virox called the group together once more. Most of the students were visibly tired, their hands sticky with blood and sweat, but there was a sense of accomplishment among them. They had all managed to process at least a few creatures, though it was clear some had struggled more than others.
Caelum, however, felt a deep sense of satisfaction. His space ring was now filled with enough raw materials to last him weeks, maybe even months, depending on how he chose to use them. The thought of experimenting with new enchantments and potions thrilled him, but he knew there was still much more to learn.
“Good work,” Virox said, his voice cutting through the tired murmur of the group. “But remember, this is just the beginning. You’ve learned the basics of harvesting today, but there are more advanced techniques that will come with time. The creatures you’ve caught here are low-level, but as you grow stronger, you’ll encounter more dangerous prey—and with it, more valuable rewards. Be patient and refine your skills.”
He paused, looking each student in the eye. When his gaze met Caelum’s, there was a flicker of approval. “Caelum, you’ve done well today. But don’t get complacent. You’ve got potential, but there’s always more to master. You’ll face bigger challenges soon enough.”
Caelum nodded, acknowledging the professor’s words. He was pleased with his progress, but Virox was right—there was always more to learn. The creatures in these woods were just the beginning. His true test would come when he faced more powerful enemies and began crafting with the materials he had gathered today.
“Take what you’ve learned today and apply it,” Virox continued, addressing the group as a whole. “The world beyond these woods is full of magical creatures, and understanding how to harness their essence will give you an edge. Whether you choose to be a mage, a soldier, or an enchanter, this knowledge will serve you well.”
With that, Virox dismissed the group, allowing the students to finish storing their materials and prepare for the walk back to the academy.
----------------------------------------
Caelum packed up the last of his materials, his mind buzzing with the possibilities that lay ahead. As he slipped his space ring back onto his finger, he glanced around the now quiet clearing. The day had been long, but fruitful. The techniques he had learned, the creatures he had harvested, and the herbs he had gathered all added to the ever-growing arsenal of tools at his disposal.
The walk back to the academy was peaceful, the woods gradually thinning as they approached the familiar cobblestone paths of the academy grounds. Caelum felt the weight of his new experiences settling in his mind as the sun began to set behind the towering spires of Aetherion Academy.
He was tired, his body sore from the physical work of processing the creatures, but there was something deeply satisfying about the day’s accomplishments. His space ring was full of resources, and his knowledge had grown considerably. But there was something else—something more personal. Today had proven that he could handle himself outside the confines of the academy. That he could not only survive in the wild but also thrive.
As he neared his dormitory, he looked forward to his herbology class and going to the academy’s greenhouse tomorrow. The herbs he had collected in the forest could easily be transplanted into the small garden he planned to start in his newly expanded room. With his ocular magic, he would be able to cultivate the plants with more precision than ever before, by replicating the universities greenhouse arrays, ensuring they grew strong and healthy for his alchemical experiments.