Since the construction and foundation of the Magical Citadel, hundreds upon thousands of applicants have been welcome to learn magic. Whether they are noble or commoner, the Citadel considers them equals for the sake of pursuing knowledge. It is with the hope that after graduating, these magicians will use what they've learned in the service of others and contribute to society as a whole so that it may prosper for generations to come.
As with all forms of Disciplines, their education begins with an apprenticeship. Students could either learn the traditional way by taking classes or take private lessons with one and only one Master of their choosing. From there, the apprentices can choose up to two types of Magical Disciplines, and as they continue their studies, they can learn additional ones, provided that they can.
Once they have mastered the basics of their Magical Disciplines, an apprentice, can participate in the Thaumaturge Trials, a series of bimonthly examinations that will determine their proficiency as a mage.
There are five ranks in total: Apprentice, Mage, Sage, Archsage, and the title of Master. One reigns above the highest, that being the title of Grandmaster. And its current holder was none other than Endymion, the Master Magician himself.
Speaking of Endymion, He was sitting in his chambers, overlooking documents about the upcoming Thaumaturge Trials. He recently met with The Council of Masters, discussing the criteria for each ranked magician. The meeting was long and winded, but at least they ironed out whatever details needed to be solved. With a low sigh, he dipped his quill in a bottle of ink and signed each document on parchment.
Just as he placed his quill back in the bottle, a small green-feathered eagle entered his chambers through the window, catching the Master Magician's attention. He knew this feathered creature to be Gusto Egul, one of Silent Magician's familiars who made a contract with it; after Endymion and Gusto clan's Priestess became allies. It landed on an empty perch, with its beak holding a letter.
"Ah, Gusto Egul. I take it that Silent Magician has sent you to give me a progress report on the boy's upbringing?" Endymion asked as he stood up from his desk. Walking around it, he approached the small perch to take the message from Gusto Egul's beak, then carefully opened the letter to unfold and read.
He scanned the letter from left and right, reading the content, and his expression gradually changed. It started with a frown, but then it became a mild case of surprise until it finally turned into a look of worry. What he had read most definitely bothered him.
"What in the Gods…" Endymion muttered as he re-read the letter carefully.
'I apologize for sending this letter on short notice, but there has been an unexpected development. My apprentice was assigned to light a Mana Crystal with his mana, and while he failed on his first attempt, his third attempt transformed it into its purest form.
I am sure that reading this, you are also in disbelief, but it is true. You know what this means. I do not want to entertain the worst-case scenario, but I do not wish to tell Kuromu what he is. At least for the time being. If he were to learn of his true nature now, I fear his mentality will shatter beyond repair.'
Endymion eyed the letter with concern. And justifiably so.
With this new information, Endymion briskly returned to his desk, sitting down with a new piece of parchment in front of him and dipping his quill in ink. Putting his thoughts into words, the sound of the quill scratched against the parchment accompanying his writing.
'He is to remain at your side at all times. Ensure that he does not overexert himself. We cannot endanger his life more than it has now. If word about his origin spreads, I fear the foundations of our world and magic will shake to its very core, and our enemies will seize the opportunity. You and I are the only ones who know of his secret, and no other single soul should know of this.'
With his response written, he sealed it in an envelope and gave it to Gusto Egul. It took the letter in its beak before flying back to its Master, the Master Magician, watching it fly into the distance from his window. He can only hope that nobody will find out.
He couldn't even fathom what would happen should he get his hands on the boy.
"Stay ever vigilant," Endymion muttered.
Chapter 2: The First Day
Kuromu groaned as he slowly opened his eyes. Light peeked into his vision, blinding him, before regaining focus. His head tilted to his right, seeing out his window that morning came, the sun's rays shining on his countenance. Tilting his head in the other direction, he realized that he was in his bedroom while lying on his bed.
"What happened…?" He muttered, slowly sitting up and rubbing his eyes. He looked to his desk, seeing a familiar spherical gem sitting on top. That was when the memory of yesterday came back to him. He controlled the Mana Crystal, making it shine iridescently. "Right… I did that." He said to himself, feeling proud of this milestone he had achieved. Even though he passed out, it was worth it.
"Something tells me today's going to be another good day." He added with a chuckle.
Stretching out his body, he got out of bed with a pep in his step. After making his bed, he walked out of his bedroom and into the hallway, ready to start the new day. But he needed to do something first.
"Need to use the bathroom… though, what even counts as a bathroom here in this world?" He wondered to himself.
He wandered around the house looking for it, but every door he opened led him to different rooms. Some were for guests, others were storage rooms, and some were empty. One door led to a room where Kuromu felt he was stepping into the vastness of space.
'If this keeps up, I'll end up lost in this house.' He thought to himself as he kept walking down the hall.
He opened another door that led to another room, but this particular one filled him with dread and regret. In that single instance, he saw inside a field of grass with a small lake. There were a few places to sit or relax, but his attention focused on the center of the lake where the silent Mystical Elf, Elesia, stood. Her back was exposed, while her body was waist-deep in the lake, using the water to wash her body and hair.
Immediately his face turned crimson, quickly moved away from the door, his back against the wall, while placing a hand over his heart, trying to slow his heartbeat down. 'That was too close…!' He panicked. It was well seeped into his mind, despite how brief it was. Her blue skin was almost immaculate, and despite her appearance with her dress, her slightly toned body without it accentuated her curviness in all the right places, highlighted by her shiny hair washed by her delicate hands.
'I gotta get out of here before she finds out!' Kuromu panicked as he briskly and quietly took a few steps away. However, he was not even three feet away, and his body suddenly stopped due to a chill running down his spine.
Kuromu slowly turned towards the door, his eyes widening when he realized he had forgotten to close it! Even worse was Elesia standing there, a towel wrapped around her body as she glared crossly at the boy.
"U-Uh… good morning, Elesia." Kuromu laughed weakly in terror. He stiffened when she pointed her wand at him. "H-Hold on! Let's not be rash! It was an accident! I swear, I honestly didn't know it was your room!" He panicked, waving his arm frantically as she raised her wand. "Nononono, wait, wait, wait!"
*WOOSH!*
"Uwhaaaaa!" Kuromu cried out as Elesia flicked her wand to produce a strong gust of wind to carry him through the air before landing roughly on the floor. "Ohhhhhh…" He groaned.
Huffing crossly, Elesia went back into her room, slamming the door shut.
"It seems that you have found Elesia's room." Shizuka chuckled, walking over to him.
Immediately, Kuromu stood up, his face flustered and mortified with embarrassment. "I am so sorry! I was trying to find the bathroom and-"
Shizuka held out a hand to stop him from speaking. "I am well aware, my apprentice. It was my fault for not realizing that you would not know where to look."
With a snap of her fingers, magical plaques appeared on every door. In their eyes, it read their respective languages.
"Is that better?"
"Yes…" Kuromu sighed, with his shoulders slumped. "What a way to start the morning," He scratched the back of his head.
"No day is without its difficulties." Shizuka pointed out. "If everything is too easy, we will never progress as a species."
"A fair point," Kuromu replied. "Anyways, uh… I better freshen up."
Shizuka watched Kuromu leave to find the bathroom with amusement on her face. Elesia came out of the room with her dress on, an angry look still plastered on the elf's face.
"You know he did not mean it, Elesia. It was an accident." Shizuka informed as the elf turned to her with a huff. "True, if he held your hands, then by your customs, he would be engaged to you." She noted with a giggle, "But enough of that, let us prepare breakfast, no?"
Elesia pouted but nodded nonetheless before making her way toward the kitchen.
An awkward silence loomed over the three residents, save for the magically animated brooms doing their duties. Kuromu quietly ate his breakfast, not wanting to look at Elesia lest he wanted to unleash her wrath. Elesia also ate in silence; her eyes were narrowed and closed. Shizuka sighed at this. Honestly, it was rather childish, but she couldn't blame both of them. So she did the only thing she knew was how to break the awkward silence.
"So, my apprentice. I take it that you have rested well?" Shizuka asked.
"Uh… yeah, I slept well." Kuromu nodded. "I can't remember the last time I had a good night's sleep. Besides waking up in this new world yesterday."
"That is good to hear. Elesia made your bed and room as comfortable and perfect as possible." She informed the embarrassed boy with a smile. Elesia snapped open her eyes, looking at Shizuka with a scandalized look.
"Ah… I see." Kuromu said before slightly looking at the Mystical elf. "Uh… thank you, Elesia. I appreciate it. Really."
The elf looked at him briefly, then turned her head with a huff, but a subtle smirk etched on her face that was barely noticeable. Not that she would let him see it, but she seemingly liked to be praised for her work.
Kuromu cleared his throat, shaking off more of the awkwardness. "Er-hem, uh… anyways, what are we doing today, Shizuka-sensei?"
"You are to continue learning how to use and control your mana. Otherwise, the repercussions of attempting to cast a spell are devastating; Your first attempt from last night proved that much." Shizuka stated.
"Uh… right." Kuromu winced. "Sorry about that."
"It is fine, my apprentice. I know you are eager to learn. But you must be patient and learn how to control your power." The silent mage smiled, patting his head.
"Ehehe…"
"So for today, I will not have you strain yourself from controlling your mana for too long. Your next lesson after will be something more relaxing."
"What would that be?" Kuromu asked curiously.
"You will be allowed to brew your first potion."
This excited Kuromu as his eyes brightened, "Really?! I get to learn alchemy?!"
"Yes, but only after you learn to control your mana." Shizuka nodded. "Once you do, we will then delve into the "Lexicon of Magical Potions & Ingredients" to brew a potion of your choosing, search for its ingredients, and make it."
"Yes, sensei." Kuromu nodded in excitement. Today wasn't going to be so bad after all.
"Good, now eat up and make sure you have enough energy for today."
The young boy nodded again before going back on the attack of his breakfast, seemingly in a better mood.
The magical brooms, after breakfast, took their dishes to clean, and Elesia went on to perform her other duties. Shizuka then led Kuromu to one of the doors labeled "Field of Beginnings." Upon opening the door and walking, Kuromu saw a vast grassland with flowers, trees, timid or calm animals roaming about, and a mountain range in the distance.
It felt so pure and uncorrupted that it could be considered a paradise to many who seek it.
"Whoa… is this some kind of pocket dimension?" Kuromu asked, looking around in awe.
"Yes. I found this area and had a vision of where people used this place as a landfill. So I made a pact with the spirits that protected this land and placed it into a pocket dimension, thus keeping it safe and will continue to grow unimpeded for as long as I live." Shizuka answered.
"Are there more here in this house?" Kuromu asked.
"Yes. There are." Shizuka nodded at her student's inquiry. "I ensured their protection so that no one or anything tainted or corrupted will ever abuse them."
"It's a lot to take care of."
"I merely gave them a sanctuary, and they live as they see fit," Shizuka said before walking ahead. "In any case, it is time for you to continue your lesson on controlling your mana."
"Yes, sensei." Kuromu nodded.
Shizuka walked the young man through the Field of Beginnings, the latter taking in the new landscape and observing the animals that passed by. It wasn't until later that they arrived at a small clearing. Cobblestones were embedded into the ground, filled, and arranged in a circular formation. There were stone benches that surrounded the stone circle. In the center of it were several Mana Crystals of every size, including one above the smaller ones. The gigantic crystal gleamed so brightly that it could almost become a substitute for the sun. But such a giant Mana Crystal would only look like a star if it were in space.
"This is…" Kuromu trailed off.
"Your next lesson." Shizuka finished for him. "This will reveal how much mana you have reserved within you. One by one, I will present to you a Mana Crystal, starting with the smallest. Your task will be the same as last night; lighting it up; Then I will give you another larger than the last every time you succeed. This process will continue until you can no longer light the current crystal I present."
"So the Mana Crystal from last night paled compared to these," Kuromu said, looking at the floating magical gems. He could only dread and imagine what could happen if he screwed up trying to control the largest of the crystals.
"Yes. These Mana Crystals are more refined than raw stone. So this will be a more challenging task." Shizuka waved her hand, floating the smallest one, about the size of a pearl, over to him.
"Right." Kuromu nodded, holding it in his hand. He closed his eyes and concentrated. 'I need to remember… focus on the mana surrounding it, not within. Dominate and manipulate it,' He thought to himself, his mind clear and his breathing steady.
*SHING!*
In mere moments, much like last night, the Mana Crystal glowed and shined iridescently, showing that it was controlled and stabilized. Shizuka nodded before replacing that crystal with one the size of a clam shell.
The result was the same as it brightly lit up. Shizuka continued replacing crystal after crystal each time Kuromu responded by lighting each one of them up. It was when a Mana Crystal, the size of a lion, was presented to him. It was here that he started showing signs of his limitations.
The Mana Crystal showed signs of life, but the light within flickered on and off. Kuromu tried to concentrate harder, but to no avail, as the stone eventually burned out. Kuromu groaned as he knelt on one knee, panting tiredly.
"Well done, my apprentice. It would seem that is as far as you can go." Shizuka noted as Elesia came in with tea and snacks.
"Yeah… I guess so…" Kuromu sighed.
The silver-haired magician snapped her fingers before a blanket appeared underneath the boy so that he could sit down comfortably. Shizuka sat next to him, with Elesia kneeling on both knees before serving them their light snacks.
"I must admit. Having gauged your mana reserves, you are already far more advanced than most spellcasters. An impressive feat. If someone else taught you, you would be taking Advanced Classes at the Magical Citadel's Institution by now." Shizuka noted with a sip of her tea.
"Hehe, as much as that would help, I'd still rather have you teach me," Kuromu said, taking a cracker and biting into it.
"Hmhm, you are very kind." Shizuka giggled.
"So… what happens now?"
"Now that I know the baseline of your mana reserves, I can put together an appropriate training regimen for your studies. However, I must advise you a word of caution. Despite your mana reserves going that far, it does not mean you immediately perform magic at that level; you must gradually work up to it."
"Yes, sensei. I'll be sure to remember that." Kuromu nodded.
"Good." Shizuka nodded. "How do you feel now?"
"I'm still a bit winded out. But that's what my Alchemy lesson is for: to help me relax," Kuromu smiled sheepishly.
"Yes, especially since it requires little to no mana. Not unless you're bringing an ingredient or a book over." She teased with another giggle. "But I digress."
Holding out her staff, she gave it a wave, and the "Lexicon of Magical Potions & Ingredients." tome appeared in thin air, slowly descending onto his lap. "This book I have selected is perfect for an apprentice like yourself. It contains all the potions you can brew with little to no difficulty. And as you continue your studies, you can brew potions that are more advanced than the ones within those pages. Of course, you will also need a deep understanding of the ingredients' properties and what each can do. So you will need to complete the assignments I give you and listen to my lectures. Do not forget that this applies to your lessons in Elemental Magic and Magic History."
"Yes, sensei." Kuromu nodded.
The young boy opened the book and flipped several of the tome's pages, each containing a recipe for a potion. It listed ingredients as well as specific amounts or portions needed. It also had instructions on how to brew said potion and even showed a picture of the potion's color in various glass-shaped bottles.
"There's so many to choose from I don't know where to start. I could stay here and read the book all day if I wanted to." He smiled, turning each page with excitement and wonder.
"Hehe, you may do so. Just be sure not to brew a potion without Elesia or me around," Shizuka smiled at his eagerness.
After turning a few more pages, he found a potion that seemed simple to make. It was green in color and encased in an orb-shaped bottle sealed by a cork. "This one."
"Ah, I see you want to brew a Potion of Healing?" Shizuka noted his choice.
"It should be simple enough." Kuromu nodded.
Shizuka smiled warmly, "They say that those who pick their first potion say a lot about their character. Most usually go for strength or magic enhancement potions. But choosing a healing potion shows that you care about others' well-being. I think that is very sweet of you, Kuromu."
"Ehehe… i-it's nothing." Kuromu chuckled embarrassedly, scratching the back of his head. "I'm just happy to be able to do something like this."
Shizuka sighed softly. Her apprentice was honest and willing to learn new things; it was adorable. "Now, since you made your choice, we will move to the Apothecary I have set up."
"We're not going out of the hut and into the wild to get ingredients?" Kuromu asked quizzically.
"You forgot, apprentice, that this house has many Pocket Dimensions," she smirked.
"Oh… okay then. I can't wait to see it." Kuromu grinned.
Once he felt rested enough to move again, his teacher led him, with Elesia following through the house before coming across a room that said, "Alchemy Apothecary." Within this dimension was a small forest similar to the one outside the hut. The creatures or plants gave off light, having enough brightness to simulate daylight.
Amidst a clearing surrounded by trees was a large table with various chemistry-like equipment. The sounds of liquids bubbling and fire crackling echoed as color-coded chemicals encased in the many flasks and vials littered the tabletop. Several contraptions kept the flasks high off the wooden table with a few screws that could release a chemical to flow from one flask to another. A cauldron hung over a pile of coal while the contents inside simmered and burned slowly.
"This… is where I'll be performing Alchemy? In this forest?" Kuromu asked in amazement.
"Of course. What better way than to have every ingredient known right at your fingertips?" She pointed out.
"But I noticed you gathered some at the potion shop the other day. Are those ingredients not found here?"
"Indeed. Otherwise, it would turn those potions into poison and ruin the process." She nodded to his observance. "Now then, what kind of ingredients do we need?"
"Uhhh… let's see," Kuromu said, opening up the book to look up the Potion of Healing. "Spring Water, two tablespoons of Powdered Mana, seven kernels of Sweet Corn, one cluster of Phoenixian Amaryllis, twelve petals from a Samsara Lotus, twelve petals from a Glow-Up Bulb, and two flowers from a Laughing Flower." he listed out. "That's… all here, right?"
"Yes. And your task is to go search and bring all of the ingredients back here." The silver-haired mage informed him. "There is nothing dangerous here, so it is safe to walk within this domain. The local animals, spirits, sprites, and fey will be your guide and light your way, so you will not be lost." The mage informed him.
"Alright." Kuromu nodded. "Uh… since most of these plants are… alive, I won't hurt them when taking their flowers, petals, or leaves, am I?"
"No. The ones we use are regular plants. As for the living ones, they help to ensure that they do not contract any disease or have bugs eating them. They are willing to give what you require, so long as you respect them. Ah, but three of those ingredients, be careful with them."
"Why?"
"You will know once you see them. And take these," Shizuka said, waving her small staff. A leather bag and five small glass jars appeared in front of him in midair. "You will need to put them in here."
"Right." Kuromu nodded, taking the jars to put in the bag. "I'll be back soon!" He said before taking off into the pocket dimension forest.
"Elesia, keep your distance, but keep an eye on him, just in case things become awry."
The Mystical Elf nodded. She'll make sure he doesn't get hurt too much.
"Alright, first on the list… Sweet Corn." Kuromu said as he walked through the forest. True to his teacher's words, the local flora and fauna lighted his way to ensure he didn't get lost. "Where would a cornfield be in this forest? Actually, why would a cornfield be in this forest?" He wondered aloud. Then again, this is a magical world. Whatever he knew before now was thrown out.
As he walked along the forest floor, a plant sprouted up in front of him. It looked like a dandelion but with two eyes on the leaves glaring at him.
"Uh…" Kuromu blinked in surprise. He certainly wasn't expecting this. "H-Hi there. Just passing through; I'm not going to step on you or anything." He waved weakly at the plant.
But even taking one step made it angry as it blew spores at him before fading into what seemed to be white fog. Kuromu waved the smoke away with his hand, but his eyes started tearing up, and his nose itched. This plant forced him to sneeze and have allergy problems.
"ACHOO! AAAAAAAAAACHOO!" Kuromu sneezed violently. "Oh no, my sinuses are flaring up so much! Ughhhhh! It hurts! AAAAAACHOO! ACHOO! ACHOOOOO!"
Elesia nearby watched in amusement as she chuckled and giggled silently to herself. She knew that plant wouldn't hurt him, but it did give her a few ideas. With another chortle of silence, she quietly left the boy, knowing he would be just fine.
After what seemed like forever, Kuromu's sinuses died down. "Oh man, that was horrible," He groaned, shaking his head violently and sniffling loudly. "Note to self: avoid that plant in the future." He then took a couple of deep breaths to calm and compose himself. "Alright, gotta find that Sweet Corn."
"Well, well! Would you look at that? It looks like the mage has a friend!" A soft, chibi-esque voice rang out.
"Huh? Who said that?" Kuromu wondered, looking around. "Sensei?" He got out, but there was no answer. "What the…"
"Down here!" The voice said. He looked down where to his surprise, a fairy was floating in front of him!
She had dark blue skin, long orange-brown hair, and side bangs that framed her face covering her chest. She had pointed ears, yellow eyes, and a pair of pointed fairy wings of the same color as her hair. And her body was covered by a leaf wrapped around her body for obvious reasons.
"Hi, there!"
"Whoa!" Kuromu cried out in surprise, taking a step back. "Y-You're a… you're a fairy!"
"That's right! My name is Nia! I'm a Dreamsprite! Pleased to meet you!" She beamed.
"Uh… I'm Kuromu." The young man blinked. "Nice to meet you too, I think. I'm Silent Magician's apprentice."
"You're her apprentice?" Nia gasped, to which Kuromu nodded. "Then that means she finally became a Master! Oooh, I wanted her to come here first before bringing you! I wanted to hear how she did it!" she giggled cutely.
"I'm sure you'll hear the details from her." Kuromu chuckled softly.
"Well, since you're here, I'm guessing you're making your first potion, correct?" Nia questioned.
"That's right. I'll be brewing a Potion of Healing."
"Oh! That's the same thing she did when she first started! How cute!" Nia giggled.
"Wait, this was her first lesson too?" A rather curious Kuromu inquired.
"Mhm! And you picked the same, so that must mean something! I wonder if it's destiny?" Nia sighed out heavenly.
"Uh… destiny? What do you mean by that?"
"I mean, you and her get together, of course! That lady seriously needs to find a man." Nia noted.
"I don't think I'm ready for that kind of thing yet," Kuromu said with a sweat drop.
"Oh, don't be such a scaredy cat."
"It's not like it's love at first sight! That's unrealistic!"
"Sure, keep telling yourself that." Nia shrugged with a playful smirk and a roll of her eyes.
"Hey now…"
"Hehe, you're cute when you're flustered." Nia giggled.
"A-Anyways, I still need to find the ingredients. Do you think you can help me look for them?"
"Of course! Leave it to me!" Nia said. "I know every inch of this place like the back of my hand!"
"Cool, then lead the way, Nia," he said before the pair ventured further into the forest.
The strange yet enthusiastic pair made their way deeper into the enchanted forest as they got to know each other better. It certainly made the time pass as they had already come across the first ingredient: a field of Sweet Corn. What surprised him was that the Sweet Corn themselves were very much alive, having an actual cheery and happy face on the ear of corn itself, the leaves being its arms while having roots for its legs. Kuromu had to check if he didn't huff any mushrooms to see if he wasn't hallucinating. When he pinched himself, he knew it was real.
Even more surprising was that Nia could talk to plants and animals in their native language, so the fairy asked one of the Sweet Corns to give seven of its kernels to Kuromu for his potion, to which the Sweet Corn was more than happy to give to the apprentice.
Once inside the jar, the next ingredient was petals from a Glow-Up Bulb. Nia led him to another part of the forest, where there was a field of white flowers. But these flowers were different from the ones Kuromu was used to seeing. Upon rooting one of them, he cried out in shock when he saw that a large stalk from the Glow-Up Blub had one blinking eye staring at him, causing him to drop it and land on his butt, making Nia laugh.
Eventually calming down, Kuromu plucked the petals from the bulb and moved on, although he was lamenting how weird the forest was.
The next ingredient was two flowers from a Laughing Flower. This plant had two beautiful pink hibiscus-like flowers sitting on top of what appeared to be vines that had a large mouth with red leigh-like leaves draping over it. True to its name, it started laughing for no reason, but its laughter gave Kuromu a headache while covering his ears. After yanking the flowers from the plant, he quickly buried them back into the ground, silencing the flower and saving the poor boy's ears from further damage.
The second to last ingredient was twelve petals from a Samsara Lotus. Nia led Kuromu to a nearby pond, and the lotus in question did have twelve petals, but it was sitting atop a plant-like fairy that sat on top of a water lily. It didn't look pleased to have visitors either. Nia tried to negotiate with the plant-like fairy but failed. After five minutes of Nia trying to negotiate, Kuromu was done waiting and decided to grab the plant fairy with his hand. He somewhat regretted it when it bit his hand, wincing at how powerful its jaws were, but he endured and plucked the lotus petals from its head before letting it sit back in its lily. It looked even more unhappy, but it also knew the petals would eventually grow back.
"Oh man, that thing was feisty." Kuromu winced, shaking his bitten hand, courtesy of the Samsara Lotus.
"They always are brutes. Here, let me help." Nia said, flying over and healing his hand from the bite as a green aura enveloped her hands, transferring over to the wound that eventually closed up.
"Huh… that's a handy spell to have," Kuromu noted.
"You'll learn it someday too! Have faith in yourself." She smiled sweetly at him.
"Right. Now then, the last ingredient. A cluster of Phoenixian Amaryllis." Kuromu said, looking at his list one last time. "Something tells me this will be my most difficult challenge yet. Dare I ask what that thing is?" he asked Nia.
"Well… if you're not careful, you'll get burned." She warned.
Kuromu gulped loudly. He was not looking forward to whatever awaited him once they did find the Amaryllis. It wasn't long before they found themselves at another clearing of the pocket dimension forest. In the middle of it was a plant. Its stalk was thin with yellow leaves that looked like wings, and the plant had red leaves looking like a phoenix head. Behind it was its cluster of red leaves and flowers.
"Is… that it?" Kuromu asked.
"Mhmm, here. Let me place a protection spell on you. Don't want to get charcoaled hands," Nia said before a blue mist covered the boy.
"Thank you." he thanked the Dreamsprite before approaching the bird-like plant, "Alright, time for you to come with us." he cautiously said to the plant. The phoenix plant did not like his presence and unleashed a stream of embers. "Whoa!" He cried out, dodging to the side. "That thing can breathe fire?!"
"I did say that if you're not careful, you'll get burned!" Nia reminded him.
"I can see why," Kuromu noted. "Okay, Nia, think you can distract it?"
"Nope, no way!" she shouted, shaking her head furiously.
"Huh?! Why not?!"
"May I remind you that this is your test? You have to do most of the grunt work." Nia answered. "That counts as cheating!"
"Ugh, fine, but- uwaaaaah!" he cried out as he dodged another flurry of embers. "I can't get close!"
"Think of a way to get through! Use your big brain!" Nia helped from the sidelines.
'Okay, focus. How can I grab a plant that wants to barbeque me?' Kuromu strategized as he circled the Amaryllis, who snorted out a small flame as an intimidation technique. 'It'll keep its eye on me no matter where I move; I have to outpace it somehow.'
The literal fire plant kept glaring at him, ready to spew embers at him for defense as it wouldn't dare be touched again.
"Alright, this will be crazy, but there's no other option," Kuromu said before… running towards it?!
"Huh?! What are you doing?!" the pixie gasped.
"Doing something crazy that I might regret!" Kuromu said as he charged toward the Phoenixian Cluster Amaryllis.
The plant reacted as it once again spewed embers at the human boy, expecting him to back off. But it didn't expect Kuromu to jump OVER the plant, much to its surprise. He turned around and quickly grabbed the cluster of flowers and left behind its back, giving it a hard yank and pull.
"I got it!" Kuromu cheered.
The plant finally responded by slapping him with one of its other leaves, leaving a slightly burned mark on his face. Nia flew over and unleashed a blue mist to blind the firebird-like plant. It writhed in blindness as it unleashed streams of embers wildly, but this gave Kuromu and Nia a chance to get farther away from the plant. They'll be long gone by the time the plant can see again.
"Geez, you went and jumped it," Nia noted.
"Yeah, but it was worth getting." He said as he held up the cluster in his hands before pulling out his leather bag. He then opened it up to grab the last empty jar, placed the Phoenixian leaves in its glass container, then stored it back in the bag. "Now I can start on that Potion of Healing."
"Let's hope it works. You don't want a dud," Nia pointed out.
"No." Kuromu shook his head. "Can you lead me back to the lab?"
"Leave it to me!" She said happily.
"Oh, you have returned." Shizuka noticed, placing a bookmark on the tome she was reading to pass the time while she waited. Approaching her was Kuromu coming back from the forest with Nia in tow.
"I'm back, sensei." Kuromu grinned.
"Hehe, and you found a new friend." Shizuka giggled, looking at his shoulder, deducing that Nia had decided to stick around.
"Yeah. I would've gotten lost in this dimension for I don't know how long." Kuromu chuckled.
"Mhmm! And I like him enough that I decided to stay with him and be his fairy assistant friend!" Nia smiled brightly, hugging his cheek.
"Hmhmhm, well I am glad. You are more than welcome." Shizuka smiled. "Have you brought the ingredients?"
"Every last one." Kuromu nodded, holding up the leather bag.
"Very well, then let us start brewing." Shizuka nodded.
The two of them, with their new friend Nia, went to the table where the chemistry set was. Kuromu brought the ingredients out of the leather bag and placed his "Lexicon of Magical Potions & Ingredients" tome on the side, opening the page to the recipe.
"While you were gathering ingredients, I had already obtained the spring water and the Mana Crystals since they were readily available."
"That's good. Then all that's left is follow the recipe." Kuromu nodded before looking at the book. "Okay, first would be to pour 36 oz. of spring water into the cauldron and heat until it comes to a light boil. Sensei, may I?"
Shizuka nodded before handing him the Spring Water that was in a jar. He opened it and then placed it into the cauldron. While the water was heating up, he followed the next step. "Next is to add Mana Crystals into the mortar and crush them into a fine powder using the pestle. Then I have to measure two tablespoons into the cauldron." He said, placing the shards into the ceramic bowl. However, a thought came to him. "Uh… the Mana Crystals won't explode if I crush them into powder, will they?" He paled, and justifiably so.
"Not unless you break them with your mana or empower them. Otherwise, it is safe." The teacher informed with a nod.
Kuromu sighed in relief.
"You need to relax. There is no need to tense up." Shizuka giggled.
"Sorry, I don't want a repeat of last night." Kuromu chuckled sheepishly.
"Just remember not to push yourself too much." she reminded him.
"R-Right," Kuromu said before looking back at the ingredients. "Alright… let's do this." He slapped his cheeks to pump himself up before continuing the brewing. He began grinding the magical gemstones with the pestle until they became fine powder, which didn't explode, true to Shizuka's words. He then measured two tablespoons and placed them into the cauldron, emitting a silver-colored smoke. He then proceeded to follow the rest of the instructions.
First, he sliced the cluster of Phoenixian Amaryllis finely and placed it in a cauldron. Then he added twelve petals from the Samsara Lotus. He stirred the mixture counterclockwise seven times before adding the twelve petals from the Glow-Up Bulb. Next were the two flowers from a Laughing Flower, and added the seven kernels of Sweet Corn for taste. Then he started stirring the mixture gently in a clockwise motion. He was to do this for five minutes so that the petals, flowers, and kernels would dissolve.
"Wow, you're a natural at this," Nia commented, looking at the liquid as Kuromu took the cauldron off the fire to let the concoction cool down.
"This is my first time doing this, so I don't know how this will turn out," Kuromu admitted.
"Everyone has to start somewhere, apprentice," Shizuka noted but showed support. "Speaking of which, there is something I must tell you."
"Hm? What is it, sensei?" Kuromu asked, tilting his head.
"In several weeks, you will be partaking in the Thaumaturge Trials," Shizuka said.
"The… what trials?" Kuromu asked, confused. "What is that?"
"It is a set of trials that all spellcasters must undergo. These bimonthly examinations test, evaluate, and determine a spellcaster's proficiency. If you pass, then you will be promoted."
"Really? So soon?" Kuromu asked, surprised. "But I just started."
"It is necessary," Shizuka stated. "But there is no need to fret. As I have said, these trials happen bimonthly, so you have plenty of time to refine your magic and skills. And by coincidence, the last Thaumaturge Trials ended the day before your arrival into this world."
"So two months… meaning eight weeks to prepare." Kuromu pondered in thought. "Well, I guess that's okay. Is there anything I should expect?"
"The tests are random, so there is no way to accurately predict what tests will be administered," Shizuka answered.
"Great… no pressure," Kuromu sighed with slumped shoulders.
"Hey, no need to get all mopey!" Nia huffed, holding up his face. "If you can get past a bird plant that breathes fire, you can certainly pass the Trials! Be more confident. You've shown that much, even though it was reckless of you."
"Uh…" Kuromu blinked at the fairy. He couldn't argue with that. "Alright, you got me there."
"Nia is doing wonders as your friend." Shizuka giggled.
"Yeah, I guess so," Kuromu said before looking at the cauldron, noticing that it wasn't steaming anymore. "Oh, it's ready."
"Yes. All you need to do now is imbue mana into the mixture." Shizuka said. "The Mana Crystal shards you have crushed into fine powder will assist in that."
Kurogasa nodded and approached the cauldron. Holding out his hand, he closed his eyes to concentrate. Moments later, the liquid inside the kettle glowed and changed color. Just like it showed in the book, it turned into a bright green. He opened his eyes and smiled upon seeing the results. "I did it… I brewed the Potion of Healing!"
"Well done, my apprentice." Shizuka smiled proudly at him.
"You did it, Ku-Ku!" Nia smiled, hugging his cheek.
"Hehe… thanks." Kuromu chuckled before taking out a crystal vial. He scooped the liquid with his dipper and placed it into the vial. "But now the true test is whether or not it works." He said before quickly downing the contents. Shizuka and Nia were shocked that he would suddenly drink it without warning. But their shock was replaced with relief as his body glowed a green aura, and the minor burn from his excursion healed to the point that there was no scar.
"Wow… it did," He said, amazed that its effect did as intended.
"Of course it does. A handmade potion works better than one created by pure magic." Shizuka pointed out. "Still, this is a huge milestone in your studies; You should be proud."
"Thank you, sensei," Kuromu nodded with a smile, "But… what am I going to do with the rest of it?"
Shizuka pondered on this. Indeed, what should he do with it? One option would be to place them in vials or flasks to save, should they need to use them. But given how much he has in his cauldron, there may be something he could do with it. "How would you like to embark on a small journey?"
"Huh?" Kuromu looked at his teacher in confusion and curiosity.
Kuromu had placed his Potion of Healing into several glass round-bottom flasks, placing a cork on each of them before placing them in a wooden crate with separate spaces which held up to twenty, then sealed up. He then carried the box of potions to the front entrance. "Alright, sensei, I'm ready to go!"
"Very well." Shizuka nodded before looking at Elesia and Nia. "Look after the house until we return."
"Will do!" Nia cheered as Elesia nodded with a soft bow.
With a nod from Shizuka, she walked out of the house. Kuromu was already waiting for her outside as she locked the door with a wave of her wand.
"So where are we going?" He asked.
"We are going to the Capital. There is an apothecary where we will sell the potions you have made. An acquaintance of mine owns that establishment. It will be your first time there, so consider it your reward."
"Really?! Thank you, sensei!" Kuromu smiled with a huge grin on his face.
Shizuka smiled back before looking forward, holding out her wand, and chanting the same incantation used for the portal. The silver-colored magic circle appeared in front of them, and the center of the magic circle opened up, revealing the other side, and both walked through. Once they stepped out, the portal closed. Kuromu saw an incredible sight in front of him. The city seems to shine from white marble and stone while impressive houses and buildings tower over the streets. Its defining landmark is the collection of giant white marble towers surrounding the city walls like a large fence.
"Whoa!" He exclaimed in surprise. "T-This is-!"
Shizuka nodded with a smile, "Welcome to the Capital."
"It's huge!" Kuromu gawked, "I knew the Citadel was big, but this- it's-!"
"Breathtaking?" Shizuka supplied.
"Yeah!"
"Hmhmhm, we will have time to explore after we deliver these potions." Shizuka giggled before walking towards the gates. "Come."
"W-Wait for me!" Kuromu called out, following her.
Once he had caught up, the master and apprentice duo made their way towards and past the city gates before entering the Capital. Kuromu was in complete awe and shock. The city inside the Citadel paled in comparison to the Capital. Of course, the former was great in its own right, but this fantastical city took it to the next level.
They are currently in a Market District, its roads filled with street vendors that sell produce and livestock. Kuromu also noticed that the other side of the city walls had multiple farms and houses that grew produce and raised livestock. It was likely to ensure the best quality and provide enough food for the city.
There were magical signs that pointed toward several other paths, and Kuromu could read them because those signs could translate them into his language.
Much like the Citadel, there were the Market, Guild, and Artisan Districts, and several were unfamiliar to him.
There was an Alchemy District where it was most likely he and Shizuka were heading. There was no Alchemy District in the Citadel due to their shops already scattered throughout and never needing to gather in one place. These shops, much like those in the Citadel, also sell tomes, amulets, staves, and magical rings.
Another was a Temple District where its temples and churches resided. Kuromu could see priests, priestesses, monks, and clerics roaming its streets. There were even children running about as some were going to a few buildings, assuming they were schools. And he guessed that the clergy that took them in were their teachers.
In the center was the Kingdom's Palace. It was a majestic castle that oversaw the entire city. Its castle walls seem to sparkle like diamonds whether the sun or moon shone on them.
Kuromu was in awe as his eyes wandered around, finding new things to discover.
"Stay close to me, Kuromu. You do not want to wander off and get lost." Shizuka reminded him.
"A-Ah, right, sorry." Kuromu apologized as he did as told. As the pair walked through the Capital, Kuromu noted all the different mages and civilians going about their day.
'There are so many people here,' He thought. 'Even more people than those in the Citadel.'
Speaking of people, "Um… sensei?"
"Yes?" Shizuka asked, turning her head to him.
"This acquaintance of yours. What are they like?" He asked.
"They are intelligent in all things alchemy. Though they are not always focused."
"You mean… they're airheaded?" Kuromu raised an eyebrow.
"In a manner of speaking, yes." Shizuka nodded while softly clearing her throat. "But do not pay any mind to their aloofness. They have well-meaning intentions."
"I see. Well, I trust you then." Kuromu nodded back.
The silent magician continued leading her apprentice until the two reached the apothecary shop and entered. Inside, the smells of different potions and ingredients brewing lingered, eventually reaching the nostrils of the boy, who took in a whiff. The stench was slightly intense, causing him to cough, but his sinuses readjusted themselves.
"Hello? Are you here?" Shizuka called out.
*POOF!*
From behind a curtain, smoke puffed from under after a brief flash of light. The sound of someone coughing echoed in the musty shop, alerting him and his Master that someone was there.
"Sounds like an experiment gone wrong," Kuromu deadpanned slightly.
Popping out of the curtain was a small girl, half the boy's height, with wild and curly green hair that touched the floor and goggles on top. She wore a puffy green outfit alongside a pair of green and white striped puffy pants with a belt of bottles and jars while holding up a pink bottle with a groan.
"Pink? It was supposed to be a Stamina Potion! Green!" she said, and the girl idly tossed the bottle behind her, smashing it into the ground, and gave off a small explosion as a result, then took out a notepad to write her notes down.
"Er-hem…" Shizuka cleared her throat intentionally to get the girl's alchemist's attention.
"Hm? Oh hey, fancy seeing you here," The girl noticed, looking at the silver-haired magician before going back to writing down her notes. "If you're here to get stuff, go ahead and grab it. I'll put it on your tab."
"That… is not why we are here today. My apprentice has made several Potions of Healing; We are here to sell them to you."
The green-haired alchemist stopped what she was doing and looked at them to see Shizuka's apprentice. The greenette girl was briefly shocked, but eventually, a widened smile etched onto her face.
"My, my! So you finally found an apprentice, eh? Hehe, congrats Siley!" The girl beamed.
"Siley?" Kuromu looked at Shizuka.
"I mean, she is silent. And since she never gave her name, I did." The greenette nodded with approval.
"I told you I did not have one, to begin with." Shizuka sighed. "But yes, I now have an apprentice." She gestured to the boy. "This is Kuromu Kururugi, an amnesiac who came to our world yesterday. Master Endymion entrusted me with his well-being until his memories return."
"Hmmmmmm…" The greenette hummed, examining him with her goggles and circling him while writing notes on a new sheet of notepad. "A bit slim for someone like him. Are you sure he can do magic?"
"At first, it did not seem that way. But after evaluating him, he has the potential." Shizuka answered.
"Uh… it's nice to meet you." Kuromu waved sheepishly. "So, given this place, I'm guessing your title is… Alchemic Magician?"
"Yep, but you can call me Garie." She introduced herself, grinning impishly. "So, you're here to sell me your potions?"
"Uh… yeah. Here." He said, placing the wooden crate on her table, giving his arms the relief they needed from carrying it for so long. He opened it up, revealing the twenty flasks of bright green liquid within, and pulled one out to give to Garie. "So, how much do you think it's worth?"
The greenette examined the bottle, comparing it to the few other potion bottles in stock. Garie then took a few drops to place on a scale, eyeing the inside of the bottle before noticing something.
"Hey, hey, hey, what's this?" Garie said with a wide smile.
"What is it?" Shizuka asked.
"The quality of these Potions of Healing is 50% more potent than your average!"
"Wait, what?" Kuromu blinked in surprise. "But… I only followed the instructions; I didn't do anything special with it."
"Even if you did, there's always residue inside, which would spoil them over time. But here, there's little to no residue at all! It's like they're made straight from the source!"
'And I know why…' Shizuka frowned in her thoughts.
No doubt that it was because of that. It would only be a matter of time before someone figures it out. Shizuka would have no choice but to let the person in on the secret and have them swear an oath not to reveal it to anyone else. And that in itself was already a risk.
"So… is that a good thing?" Kuromu asked hopefully with a little shrug, "I don't exactly know much about potion economics."
"Trust me, you wouldn't believe how many people sell potions that spoil in the next hour or day to me," Garie said.
"Huh, that's good to know."
"And since they're good quality and won't spoil anytime soon, I'll take them for 200 Gold!"
…
…
…
…
"I'm sorry, d-did you just say gold?" Kuromu sputtered out incomprehensibly, "Like, actual gold?" he asked her.
"Uh… yeah, why do you ask?" Garie asked.
Kuromu heard the sound of a cash register playing off in his head. "…I'm going to be rich." Kuromu got out with an eager grin.
"I wouldn't get your hopes up." Garie shook her head in amusement.
"Eh?" Kuromu blinked innocently, "Why not?"
Garie raised an eyebrow at this but caught on, "Do you want me to tell him, or do you want to do it?" she asked the Silent Magician, giving her a knowing look.
Shizuka merely shrugged, "It should come from you."
"Alright, but don't blame me for what happens next." Garie shrugged back.
"Huh? What are you talking about?" Kuromu asked, confused.
Moments later
"Well, that's a bit of a ripoff," A miffed and heartbroken Kuromu huffed as he and Shizuka walked out of Garie's shop with a small pouch of coins. In this world, gold wasn't that precious; It was just another currency in this world and nothing more.
"You brought this upon yourself," Shizuka said. "Let that serve as a lesson. Do not allow your assumptions to skew your expectations."
"Yes, sensei…" Kuromu pouted, holding up the small pouch of coins. "What could I even buy with 200 gold anyway…? I feel like this is just enough for a low-quality weapon or something,"
"There is no need to lament, my apprentice," Shizuka said. "If anything, your earnings are more than what most people would earn. Most only receive a fourth of what they sell, half if they are lucky."
"I guess so…" Kuromu muttered. "I mean… it wouldn't be that bad if I did this as a side job." He sighed, accepting that his potential to make a quick buck was in shambles.
*GONG! GONG! GONG! GONG!*
"Huh?" Kuromu heard the sound of church bells ringing as he saw a sea of people making their way toward the Temple District, indicated by the magical sign he saw. "What's… going on?" he inquired of his Master, "Where are they going?"
"It is the hour of worship for those in the Church of Ultima," Shizuka answered her pupil.
"Church of Ultima?" Kuromu pondered aloud, "Who or what's Ultima?"
"From what I understand, those in the Church of Ultima worship whom they call "The Progenitor." They laid the foundations of magic and created the world that we now live in."
"So… they're the God of this world?" Kuromu guessed.
"In a manner of speaking, yes." Shizuka nodded. "If you wish, we can visit the Temple of Ultima; You do not have to participate in their liturgical service and can observe them from a distance."
"Are you sure?" Kuromu asked. "We won't be… intruding?"
"I see no harm in it."
Kuromu hummed in thought over this. It would be interesting to observe a religious ceremony from a cultural standpoint. Though, part of him felt nervous because of the cultural shock. After taking a deep breath, he nodded, "Okay, let's see what this church has to offer."
They eventually arrived at the Temple of Ultima, where Kuromu stood in awe. It was a tall cathedral decorated with mosaic windows and golden statues depicting a robed spellcaster at the front gates and doors. The large doors leading inside the church were already open as people came flocking in.
"Are you alright?" Shizuka asked.
"…A bit overwhelmed." Kuromu gulped. And who could blame him? If the outside of the building was simply awe-inspiring, there was no telling what was inside.
"Here." Shizuka offered her hand to him. "You can hold my hand."
"S-Sensei… I'm not a child." Kuromu muttered in embarrassment, his cheeks flushing a tint of red.
"True. But there are many people. And you do not wish to be separated from me, yes?"
"I uh…" Kuromu muttered, looking down, his hair covering his eyes, feeling even more embarrassed. A moment later, he quickly held her hand with his own. "Just don't let go."
Shizuka was confused but agreed, and the two entered the church. Kuromu felt his breath catch in his chest as he got his first look inside. There was a large, open sanctuary made of polished silvery marble, lit up by strange glowing crystals placed into small sconces on the walls. Some of the baroque-style pillars helped support the building's structure, and there were rows upon rows of pews that stretched to either side of the sanctuary. A few carpeted isles interspersed among them, as the congregation has already filled at maximum capacity. At the front stood a majestic altar made of marble, and on either side of the sanctuary were doorways that led into what could be sacristies.
Kuromu felt his knees buckle and subsequently collapse, to which Shizuka noticed and caught him just in time.
"Come now. Compose yourself." Shizuka said incredulously, managing to hold him back up.
"S-Sorry… it's just a lot to take in." Kuromu stuttered.
"I do not blame you. But please, try and hold fast to your consciousness." Shizuka sighed softly with worry, to which the body slowly nodded.
Shizuka then helped her apprentice to a seat at the back to regain himself while not distracting other people. She should've known this would've been too much and would've had him wait outside instead.
But Kuromu had asked for this, and she merely obeyed his wishes. So it wasn't entirely her fault.
Soon there was the sound of bells ringing, signaling the start of the service, and the congregation stood up save for Kuromu to stay seated. The doors to one side of the sanctuary opened, and a priestess walked out.
She was a young woman with long and soft hazel-colored hair adorned in an altar-esque attire that suited that of a priestess. Her hood covered her head as a red jewel hung off her neck. She even had a snow-white owl perched on her shoulder alongside a staff that she carried in her hand. Accompanying her were a few acolytes who would assist in the ceremony.
"Who… is that?" Kuromu wondered.
"That is the High Priestess of Ultima. Her name is Minvera, her title being the Exalted Lightsworn." Shizuka answered.
"Light… sworn?"
"They are a group who seek to save those who pray for help, crossing, and transcending time and space. They must consume vast quantities of magical energy to materialize to this plane of existence."
"But… wouldn't the balance of mana in the world be uneven if they take in so much?"
"Only if brought in forcefully. Followers offer a portion of their mana to give them form, thus never truly threatening the balance of mana." Shizuka stated.
"So a form of tithe,"
"Yes."
The ceremony began with Minerva speaking out several prayers, to which the congregation would respond. The acolytes would use a thurible with charcoal inside, and the acolytes would place a few teaspoons of incense into the thurible to give to the High Priestess and would incense the altar.
Giving the thurible back to the acolytes, she recited more prayers before eventually preaching what Kuromu assumed to be the Church of Ultima's Gospel.
When finished, Minerva walked toward the pulpit with the congregation sitting down to listen to her sermon. He couldn't understand it since it was in the Lightsworn language, but he could feel peace and hope to come from it.
"Er… do you understand what she is saying?"
"I do not. Only a Lightsworn may know what she is saying; It is part of their culture." Shizuka shook her head.
"But… What of the faithful? Not that I'm saying that they're ignorant,"
"They only know that whatever they are praying for is answered. The Lightsworn do not lie to their followers nor deceive followers into heresy. I have seen it firsthand. A young mother prayed to have her son's affliction cured. It was a unique disease that magic was unable to cure. But her prayers were answered. And their affliction faded."
"A… real miracle?" Kuromu gasped softly with wide eyes.
"Indeed, it is." she nodded.
"Wow, I… never knew such a thing was possible," Kuromu muttered in bewilderment.
"Even if you do not have faith, you will be like many others, my apprentice. Someone who is bound for greatness with infinite potential." Shizuka smiled.
"I see," Kuromu said, looking back at Minerva, who was still preaching. "I guess… that's one way to have faith,"
"Yes, it is."
After the sermon, several more prayers, ceremonial gestures, and giving tithes, the service ended with the congregation filing out of the church and into the Capital streets to go about their day. All but Kuromu and Shizuka stayed in the church, the former having long recovered from their dizzy spell.
"That was… an interesting experience," Kuromu commented.
"Are you feeling better?" she asked with concern.
"Yeah, I should be fine." Kuromu smiled sheepishly. "Sorry if I worried you, sensei. I didn't mean to."
"It is not your fault. Many have had the same reaction when coming here for the first time. Hopefully, you will eventually be accustomed to it." She smiled, gently patting his head. "That said, do you wish to have an audience with the High Priestess?"
Kuromu looked surprised, "R-Really? I can?"
"It is not a problem. The High Priestess is not one to shy away from the faithful and is more than happy to meet them, commoner and noblemen alike."
"I see. Then, yes. I would love to meet the High Priestess." Kuromu nodded.
"Oh, I've never seen you here."
Kuromu, being caught off guard, looked towards the front; The High Priestess had already approached the pair, her owl perched on her shoulder. Kuromu immediately stood up, his body stiffening like a board.
"Please, do not be alarmed and be at ease," Minerva assured. The young man slumped slightly, a soft sigh of relief escaping his lips.
"Your Grace," Shizuka said, standing up and giving her a bow while her hand was over her chest. "It is good to see you."
"Yes, it is." she agreed before turning towards Kuromu, "And who might you be?"
"I'm Kuromu. I'm Silent Magician's new apprentice." Kuromu greeted shyly.
"Oh. You have finally taken up an apprentice?" Minerva noticed, looking at Shizuka with a smile.
"Yes. Master Endymion entrusted me with his well-being. He arrived in our world yesterday with amnesia, but until his memory returns, I will be teaching him magic."
"I see." Minerva nodded, looking back at the boy. "Then allow me to be the first to say welcome to our world."
"T-Thank you, Your Grace," Kuromu said.
"Kuromu wanted to observe the liturgical ceremony you have performed today. And it certainly left an impression on him."
"Is that so?"
"Yes. It was an interesting experience, to say the least." Kuromu answered. "Where I'm from, at least from what I remember, miracles are too few and happen too far between. To hear that it can happen almost every day left me speechless."
"It seems you might have a Lightsworn on your hands," Minerva noted with a giggle.
"Eh?" Kuromu blinked in confusion.
"I jest. It is not wise of me to take someone's apprentice after all." Minerva jokes, which Shizuka pouted slightly, "Are you afraid that I would steal your beloved?"
This time Shizuka had the nerve to look flustered and briefly lose her composure, "Do not be ridiculous, Minerva. He is my apprentice." She glared at her. "Goodness, even though we graduated from the Magical Academy, you still find time to slander me with your harmless jokes."
"I remember having your brother pretend to be your beloved to stave off any would-be suitor," Minerva recalled.
"That is not the point." Shizuka huffed.
"Wait… you two used to be classmates?" Kuromu looked at the two women in bewilderment. "And… you have a brother, Sensei?"
"To answer your first question, to my dismay, yes." Shizuka hesitantly revealed. "And to answer your second, yes. I do. But that story is for another time."
"This was before I took my vows as High Priestess, mind you. But she was always fun to tease." Minerva giggled. "Of course, I mean no ill will towards her, but when the opportunity arises, I simply cannot let it slip by."
"Now I'm starting to wonder what Sensei was like back then." Kuromu pondered.
"We will not speak of that, my apprentice," Shizuka said curtly.
As the Master and apprentice were talking, Minerva looked at her left shoulder, noticing how her owl had kept staring at Kuromu, never blinking for even a moment, its eyes laser-focused on the boy intently. "What's wrong?" Minerva asked her companion softly.
The owl said nothing as it continued to observe Kuromu intently as if it knew something.
"You sense something within him?" Minerva asked. The bird of prey looked at her with a slight glare as if telling her something. The Exalted Lightsworn was confused, but the moment her feathered friend gave a few hoots, her eyes widened considerably, making her gasp audibly.
"Hm? What is it, Minerva?" Shizuka asked, hearing her friend's owl hooting something to her, which Kuromu also noticed.
"Did your owl say something to you?" Kuromu blinked.
"Oh, it's nothing." Minerva shook her head. "My owl said it wants to see whether or not your hair might serve as his new nest."
"…Huh?" Kuromu got out.
To prove a point, the owl flew off her shoulder and tried to roost on Kuromu's hair. "H-Hey, what are you doing? Get off! Don't make my head your new home!" He said, trying to shoo the owl away.
"I must admit… this is quite amusing," Shizuka smirked.
"Sensei, don't encourage it!" Kuromu cried out.
"Hmhmhm, come now, you already have your nest back in the sanctuary. I don't think our new friend's hair qualifies." Minerva chuckled at her owl. The nocturnal bird nodded and flew off the boy's hair to rest on her shoulder again. "I hope he didn't tangle your hair too much."
"No… he didn't," Kuromu grumbled, trying to fix his hair by combing it with his hand, which made Shizuka chuckle again.
"In any case, I must return to my duties. It was nice of us to catch up, my friend." Minerva said to Shizuka.
"Yes, you as well." Shizuka nodded back.
"And Kuromu? Please look after her." Minerva told the boy with a smile. "She may not show it, but she can be quite stiff and stubborn. Hopefully, someone like you can loosen her up."
"Uh… of course."
"That's good." Minerva smiled again. "Just looking at you, I can tell you will do great things."
"Really? You think so?" Kuromu grinned sheepishly.
"More than you can imagine," Minerva answered. "Fate works in mysterious ways which we mortals cannot hope to comprehend. Perhaps there's a reason why you are here in this world; What that reason is, I can't say for sure." As she left, however, the Priestess had a knowing smile, "But what I can say is that if you cooperate with it with an open mind and a welcoming heart, you may find the answers you seek."
And with that, Minerva left with her owl in tow, who spared one last glance at the boy.
"What… was that all about?" Kuromu wondered aloud.
"I do not think it is all that important," Shizuka said before the pair left the church.
"Just… sage advice?"
"Very likely. Come, let us return home."
Kuromu pondered for a moment but eventually shrugged it off. He felt there was more to what the Exalted Lightsworn had said, but that was something to worry about later.
After returning home from a long day at the Capital, the broom helpers had already prepared dinner with the help of Elesia and Nia. Conversation at the dinner table was anything but dull as Kuromu and Shizuka told them everything that had happened while they were visiting. Of course, Nia got a kick out of Kuromu's Healing Potions not being rich as he had hoped. And how Minerva's owl tried to roost on his head.
All in all, it was a productive day.
"Haaaaaaaaaaaa…" Kuromu sighed happily, having a cute look of relaxation as he sank deeper into his bathtub; his head was kept above the water's surface, "That hit the spot."
Meanwhile, Nia was scrubbing his hair with her fairy-sized hands using the shampoo provided in the bath.
"You bet! Nothing like a simple bath to wash the stress away!" the fairy agreed.
"Yeah~," Kuromu said. "You sure there are no bird droppings on my head?"
"Kuro, I already told you. There's no bird poop," Nia pouted.
"I'm just making sure," Kuromu said. "That owl looked ready to stay on my head wherever I went."
"Trust me, that owl didn't crap on you." the fairy crassly said.
*KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK*
"Kuromu, may I come in?" Shizuka's voice called out from the other side of the door.
"S-Shizuka-sensei?!" Kuromu panicked, sitting up immediately. "Uh… I'm still bathing!"
"It is not a problem. I'm fully clothed."
"Uh…" Kuromu trailed off. It wasn't like she would stare intently at his manhood. And she did say she was fully clothed. "Come in…" He said, sinking back into the water.
"I think this should be my cue to leave." Nia winked at him. "Good luck with her, lover boy." She teased playfully. The door opened up, and the Dreamsprite immediately flew away.
"She seemed rather… happy," Shizuka noted as she approached the bathtub.
"Nia was teasing me." Kuromu pouted.
"About?" his Master inquired as she knelt on the floor, her arms resting on the tub's edge.
"I'd… rather not say." Kuromu trailed off, with a tinge of red on his cheeks, before shaking his head to get rid of it. "So… what's up?"
"I wanted to check on you," Shizuka answered.
Kuromu sighed at this, "I'm okay. I won't be fainting every time I step inside a temple. Though I should probably start wearing a hat."
"I do not think it would have made any difference." Shizuka chuckled. "Still… you did well today."
"It's only day one in my magical education; I barely did anything."
"Perhaps… it may seem insignificant, but you have achieved these necessary milestones. You should be proud of your efforts."
Kuromu looked at her for a moment before looking away. "Thank you." He timidly said. "I do appreciate it. Though…"
"Hm?"
"I don't know if it's just me, but… the way Her Grace, Minerva, told me, I will do great things. It sounds as if she knew something. I'm not special; I'm just a kid with no clue about who he is or how he got here."
"True. But do recall what I have said earlier at the church." Shizuka reminded him. "You are like many others: having infinite potential."
"And… she saw that potential in me?" Kuromu asked.
"Yes. And for what it is worth, I believe that you can do great things."
"You… think so?"
"Yes, but that potential is not reached within a single day," Shizuka said. "Master Endymion once said that a magician is like a tree. To grow, one must use what nature has provided."
"Eh?"
"Much like a tree needs the ground to place its roots, the sun to give it life, and water to help it grow, a magician must learn how to be disciplined to keep rooted, have the ingenuity to stay consistent, and most importantly, creativity to flourish. After all, magic is only limited to one's imagination."
"I see." Kuromu pondered in thought. "I guess that makes sense. Thank you, sensei. You've given me a lot to think about."
"Try not to overthink it." Shizuka smiled easily before standing up to leave. "You should finish your bath soon so you can rest for tomorrow. We will continue your lessons then."
"Yes, sensei." Kuromu nodded before Shizuka left him alone. The young boy sighed as he sat against the bathtub, staring at the ceiling.
Today was eventful. Tomorrow will be no exception.
