Taking a deep breath, I sat back down, opening the book to the first chapter. The text explained the basics of harnessing magical energy, focusing on the principles of the "Arc of Embodiment." Golden runes glowed on the pages, and the text seemed to come alive under my gaze.
Chapter 1: Understanding Your Magic
Welcome, Leon. To begin your journey with the Arc of Embodiment, you must first learn to harness the magical energy within you. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Feel the energy flow through your body, like a gentle stream. Imagine it gathering in your hands, ready to take form.
"Alright, here goes nothing," I muttered, closing my eyes, and taking slow, deep breaths. I imagined a stream of energy flowing through me, pooling in my hands. A few minutes passed by, with seemingly no changes, no pulls, pushes or changes.
Pausing for a moment as I realized I had started to hold my breath, I took a sudden deep breath, smelling the flowers and grass in the meadow. "Come on, Leon, focus," I chastised myself.
In an instant, a small knot formed in my gut as it felt as though a dam had burst, sending a shock throughout my body, along with a comforting warmth flowing shortly behind seemingly at its own whims.
Good. Now, with your eyes still closed, picture a simple object in your mind. Something small and tangible, like a stone or a flower. Focus on every detail of this object—the texture, the weight, the shape. When you have a clear image, channel your energy into bringing it into reality.
"A small stone. I can do that," I muttered, picturing a smooth, round stone, feeling its weight and texture in my mind. I focused on channeling the energy from my hands into creating it.
Now, open your eyes and let the energy ebb from your body…
I opened my eyes and watched in awe as a blue light formed in my palm, shielding my eyes as the light died down. I could feel a small smooth rock.
"Well, would you look at that," I said to myself, marveling at the small black oval rock in my hand, one of the ones I used to have adorning a small plant pot in my old world. A rush of wonder and excitement washed over me as I rubbed the rock around in my palm, only for it to crumble under a small amount of pressure.
"Figures," I grumbled, frowning. I looked at the next part and saw nothing about what had happened. "Great, just great. My memory's not the best, but I don't think the creations are supposed to dissolve like this."
Skimming further along, I noticed a red sign saying "STOP." I realized I had made it almost to the back of the book. Remembering what Arcturus had written in the dedications, I gave an incredibly subtle look around the clearing to ensure no one was watching, then looked back down to the book in excitement.
Unable to contain my anticipation, I flipped the final page hoping to see the surprise Arcturus mentioned. Instead, I found a sticky note that read, "Tut, tut. No skipping to the surprise, Leon. Once you finish the book and understand how to use the magic at your disposal, then you can see the surprise."
Looking under the note gave me nothing but another 'Tut, Tut' message. Huffing, I flipped back to where I had left off at the start of the book.
"Stupid gods and their ability to predict my behavior," I muttered, grumbling to myself. "I just wanted to know what it was, that's it, I swear! Call it academic curiosity!"
Flipping back to where I had left off at the start of the book, I was determined to master the basics before trying anything more ambitious. As much as I wanted to know what the surprise was, I realized there was a lot to learn before I would be able to get there.
Chapter 2: Shaping Your Imagination
Now that you have felt the energy flow and created a simple object, it is time to refine your control. The Arc of Embodiment allows you to bring your imagination to life, but this power requires precision and focus. Start with small, detailed objects and gradually increase the complexity as you become more proficient.
"Alright, something slightly more complicated than a stone. How about a mechanical bird?" I said to myself. It was an object I had always admired for its intricate designs and delicate movements. "I remember back when my parents were alive, my dad bought one for us kids as a gift…"
I closed my eyes and pictured the bird in my mind, focusing on every detail: the feathers, the beak, the tiny gears inside.
Remember, patience is key. Do not rush the process. Visualize each part of the object individually, then assemble them in your mind before channeling your energy.
"Patience, huh? Not exactly my strong suit," I muttered. Following the book's advice, I took my time visualizing each component of the bird. It was challenging to maintain focus on so many details, and I could feel my concentration wavering. After what felt like hours, I was ready to try.
Now, channel your energy slowly, allowing it to flow into the shape you have created in your mind. Be mindful of each part as it forms.
I opened my eyes and let the energy flow from my hands. A blue light formed, and the shape of a bird began to materialize. For a moment, I felt a surge of triumph. But as the light faded, I saw the bird was misshapen. Its wings were uneven, and the gears inside were misaligned. It looked more like a broken piece of brass than a delicate piece of craftsmanship like the one from my memory.
"Well, that's disappointing," I said, disheartened, as I watched the mechanical bird crumble like the stone in my hands, gears and feathers falling apart. "Clearly, I have a long way to go."
Chapter 3: Overcoming Challenges
Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Each failure brings you closer to success. Analyze what went wrong and try again. Patience and persistence will lead to mastery.
I sighed and began to analyze where I had gone wrong. "Maybe I tried to create something too complex too soon. Maybe I need to break down the process even further, focusing on one part at a time before attempting the whole."
Just as I was about to try again, I realized the sun was now high in the sky. My stomach growled, reminding me that I hadn't eaten since I woke up in this strange place. "Right, survival first," I muttered to myself. "Magic can wait."
I supposed it might be a good idea to focus on not dying in a world I hardly know anything about. "Damn, I'm really starting to regret not rewatching that old show now… I only found it the first time on pure luck trying to… take a look at some of the more… free options… hell, the show had been produced over fifty years ago, so I really doubt I would've found it again in the first place."
Standing up and stretching my stiff muscles, I looked around the meadow. The stream nearby seemed like a good place to start. "From what I remember, a fast-running stream should be drinkable."
Walking over, I drank some of the cool, refreshing water. "Okay, water sorted. Now, food," I said, keeping an eye out for any signs of food as I drank. There were some berries on bushes nearby, but I wasn't sure if they were safe to eat.
"Better be cautious," I said, rubbing some of the berries on my skin to test for any reactions and waiting to see if there were any adverse effects. Satisfied that they were safe, I ate a small meal and felt a bit more energized.
"Alright, time to set up camp," I said, deciding to set up a makeshift camp near the stream. Using my oh-so-expensive skills in engineering I had acquired in my previous life, I gathered branches and leaves to create a shelter. It wasn't much, but it would provide some protection from the elements.
After my shelter was set up, I turned my attention to finding more food. After some careful searching, I found a few more edible-looking plants and berries. "Better than nothing," I muttered as I gathered them.
As the sun began to set, I returned to my shelter and sat down with the book. "Alright, let's see what else you have to teach me," I said to the book. I still had much to learn, but at least I now had a plan. "Learn whatever this book has to offer, once I'm certain my magic skills are good enough, make a large canteen and set off from this stream to try and find civilization."
As the last light of the setting sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, I settled back into my makeshift camp, the black book resting on my lap. Despite the challenges of the day, there was still a sense of excitement buzzing within me.
Chapter 4: Refining Your Technique
With basic control established, it is time to refine your technique. Focus on creating more intricate objects by visualizing each component in greater detail. Break down the process into manageable steps and perfect each one before moving on to the next.
As the temperature began to drop, I realized I needed a fire to stay warm throughout the night. "Alright, let's not freeze to death," I muttered. Instead of trying to create another intricate mechanical bird, I decided to create something simpler but much more essential: a lighter. A small, functional object with fewer moving parts with much more room for errors.
Closing my eyes, I imagined a basic lighter. I pictured its thin plastic body, the small flint wheel to create a spark, and the reservoir for fluid. I focused on the weight and texture, every minute detail.
"Come on, you can do this," I encouraged myself, letting the energy flow from my hands. Opening my eyes, I watched as a small blue light formed. This time, the lighter materialized with more precision than my previous attempts with the bird. I picked it up and examined it closely. It felt exactly like a plastic lighter you'd find in any gas-station.
"Third time's the charm," I said, encouraged by this success. I flicked the wheel and was relieved to see a small flame spring to life. The warmth from the small flame was immediate and comforting. I gathered some dry leaves and twigs, carefully building a small campfire. Soon, a cheerful blaze was crackling, casting a warm glow around my makeshift camp.
Taking a deep breath, I felt a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. "Not bad, Leon. Not bad at all," I muttered, relaxing as I watched the flames wane only to grow as they reached another small branch.
The night was peaceful, and the stars above twinkled brightly. I soon drifted off to sleep, the warmth of the fire comforting me as I slumbered.
The first rays of dawn gently woke me from my slumber. I stretched, feeling the stiffness in my neck from the previous day's reading. The fire had died down, leaving only a few glowing embers. I poked at them with a stick, stirring the coals and adding a few small twigs to rekindle the flames. As the fire slowly came back to life, I began to plan my day.
My stomach growled, reminding me that I needed to find more substantial food than the berries and plants I had found yesterday. I decided to explore the area around the meadow, hoping to find something more filling.
Before setting out, I took a moment to consult the book once more. "Let's see what wisdom you have for me today," I muttered, flipping through the pages. I had made some progress with the lighter, but I knew I still had a long way to go to fully master my magic.
Chapter 5: Advancing Your Skills
Now that you have a basic understanding of creating simple objects, it is time to challenge yourself further. Try combining multiple components to create more complex and functional items. Remember, patience and precision are key.
I grumbled under my breath as I read this. "Of course, it makes sense now. I tried to create the mechanical bird too soon, skipping the basics and combining simpler components first. Stupid gods and their cryptic instructions… And definitely not my own fault for overestimating my abilities!"
Setting the book aside, I headed toward the forest on the edge of the meadow. The air was cool and fresh, filled with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. As I walked, I kept an eye out for anything that could serve as food or useful resources.
After some time, I stumbled upon a larger, slow-moving stream teeming with fish. My stomach rumbled again at the sight. "Alright, fish it is," I said to myself. "Ah, but of course, in my genius, I left my fishing gear at home… in my old life."
I sat by the stream, contemplating how I could use my magic to solve this problem. The book's instructions echoed in my mind, urging me to think creatively and use the skills I was learning. "Okay, think, Leon. You don't need an elaborate fishing rod. The water isn't deep, and a simple stick with a strong string will do the job just fine. Sometimes, I realize, I am a real dumbass."
Closing my eyes, I visualized a basic fishing rod. I focused on the details: a sturdy wooden stick and a strong string tied to one end. I let the energy flow through me, forming the components one by one.
Opening my eyes, I found a simple but hopefully functional fishing rod in my hands. It wasn't perfect, but it would do the job. "Let's see if this works," I muttered, fashioning some makeshift bait using the rest of the berries I had collected and casting the line into the stream.
It took a few tries, but eventually, I felt a tug on the line. Excitement surged through me as I carefully reeled in my catch. The fish wasn't large, but it was enough to make a decent meal. I repeated the process a few more times until I had enough fish for a hearty breakfast.
Returning to my camp, I cleaned and cooked the fish over the fire. The smell of roasting fish filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation. "Patience, Leon. Let it cool down a bit before stuffing your face." The fish, while a tad dry, filled my belly.
With my hunger sated, I decided it was time to return to my magical training. I opened the book again, eager to take the next steps.
Chapter 6: Combining Variables
Creating complex items requires the integration of multiple components. Practice visualizing each element and how they fit together. Begin with simple combinations and gradually increase the complexity.
I decided to challenge myself by creating a more intricate tool: a multi-purpose tool. "Alright, let's do this," I said to myself, closing my eyes and visualizing the item. I pictured the blade, the handle, the hinges, and the small tools embedded within. Piece by piece, I imagined how they would come together to form a cohesive whole.
I let the energy flow from my hands, carefully shaping each part and assembling them in my mind. When I opened my eyes, I held a basic multi-purpose tool. It wasn't as refined as the ones from my old world, missing some edges, the blade being a bit dull, but the other tools that I was more familiar with seemed to have come out alright.
By midday, I decided it was time to improve my camp setup. The shelter I had built was functional, but I would rather have something more comfortable, and I was a far cry from being good with my magic yet.
As I worked on reinforcing my shelter, adding more layers, and enlarging it, I noticed the weather beginning to change. The wind picked up, rustling the leaves, and bringing a chill to the air. Dark clouds were gathering on the horizon, and the light of the sun seemed to dim.
"Ah, a storm is coming," I muttered. "Great, just what I needed."
I needed to act quickly. Remembering the book's advice on creating practical tools, I decided to try my hand at making a tarp to protect my camp from the rain. I closed my eyes and visualized a large, durable sheet. I focused on the material, imagining the tough plastic-like material I remembered.
I let the energy flow through my hands, shaping the tarp in my mind and then bringing it into reality. When I opened my eyes, the blue glow was covering a much larger area this time, not focused directly in my palm either; I had created it to fall directly onto my shelter.
"Not bad," I muttered, quickly setting about securing the tarp over my shelter and around it to create a dome, using the reinforced frame to hold it in place. As I worked, the wind grew stronger, and the first drops of rain began to fall. "Come on, Leon, maybe hurry it up a bit!"
I hurried to finish, making sure everything was as secure as possible. With the tarp in place, the rain started to pour down in sheets, drenching the meadow and the surrounding forest. Thunder rumbled in the distance, and flashes of lightning lit up the sky. I huddled under the tarp, listening to the sound of the storm. The wind howled and the rain battered against the tarp, but it somehow held.
The night was long and difficult. The storm showed no signs of letting up, and I was forced to endure the relentless downpour. The cold wind cut through my clothes, and I shivered as I tried to stay warm. "Just my luck," I muttered, "stuck in the middle of nowhere with a storm raging outside. Could this day get any better?"
Finally, as dawn approached, the storm began to subside. The rain slowed to a drizzle, and the wind calmed. Exhausted but relieved, I emerged from my shelter to survey the damage. The ground was soaked and muddy, but my camp had held up well enough.
"Well, at least the tarp held," I said to myself, making sure nothing important got damaged (the tome mainly). I managed to find some scattered wood that was somehow still dry enough to be lit and set it inside the shelter for later.
By midday, I decided it was time to improve my camp setup. The shelter I had built worked, but it needed to be sturdier and more comfortable if I was going to stay here for a while. The storm from earlier had been a reminder of how quickly things could go to shit.
I gathered more sturdy branches and leaves, reinforcing the frame of my shelter. Using the knife, I carefully trimmed and shaped the branches to fit together more securely. "This better work," I muttered, "because I am not doing this again." Feeling the ache of callouses starting to form.
I created a stronger roof using layers of leaves and bark to better shield against the rain. The process took time, but the effort was hopefully worth it.
With my shelter more secure, I turned my attention to creating a more comfortable sleeping area. I collected soft moss and ferns, arranging them inside the shelter to form a makeshift bed. "Not exactly a memory foam mattress, but it'll do," I said, patting down the moss and ferns.
I also fashioned a simple, low table using a tree trunk I had found earlier. Taking a glance around my new camp, while nothing special, it was starting to feel more put together. "Getting there, Leon. Slowly but surely."
That night was peaceful, the stars above twinkling brightly. The chill from the previous night hadn't come back. "I wonder if it's spring?" I mused aloud.
Shaking my head as I lay on my 'bed,' a harsh feeling of homesickness washed over me. The moss and ferns, though soft, couldn't compare to the warmth and familiarity of my own bed back home. "I miss the creak of the floorboards in my old room, the faint hum of machinery from my workshop, and the comforting scent of coffee wafting through my apartment," I whispered to the night sky. The stars above were a truly beautiful sight, but they only made me feel more alone, a stark reminder of how far I am from everything and everyone I cherished.
I closed my eyes, trying to shake off the longing that tugged at my heart. This new place was starting to feel more put together, but it wasn't home, and I don't think it ever would be.
I sighed, letting the memories of home linger a bit longer before drifting into a restless sleep, hoping that tomorrow would bring a sense of peace. "I don't want to be in this forest much longer."
The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over my camp as I finished my midday meal. The storm had passed, and today, the air was fresh and crisp, filled with the scent of damp earth. I decided it was time to challenge myself with creating my first proper magical item.
I took a deep breath and sat down, placing the book next to me for reference. "Alright, Leon," I muttered to myself, "let's see if we can make something actually helpful."
Chapter 7: Advanced Constructs
Now that you have successfully combined basic components, it is time to explore more advanced constructs. These items require not only precision but also a deep understanding of how different elements interact. Begin with practical tools and gradually move to more complex mechanisms.
I decided to create a simple magical lantern. It would be useful for the nights and any future explorations I might have. I pictured a basic lantern with a small magical core that could emit light.
"Okay, start with the base," I said, talking to myself. "A sturdy frame… iron? No too heavy, lets go with aluminum."
I closed my eyes and visualized the lantern's frame. I imagined it being made of aluminum, strong and durable. I focused on the shape and the texture, feeling the weight of it in my mind. I let the energy flow from my hands, shaping the frame piece by piece.
Opening my eyes, I saw a rough but recognizable metal frame in front of me. "Not bad for a start," I muttered. "Now for the glass casing."
I closed my eyes again, this time picturing the glass panels. I imagined them fitting perfectly into the frame, clear and smooth. I let the energy flow, carefully forming each panel, and setting them mentally into place.
"Alright, Leon, now for the tricky part," I said, steeling myself for the next step. "The magical battery… or is it a magic core?"
Shaking my head, I visualized a small, glowing core, similar to the blue light I had seen when creating other items. This time, I wanted it to emit a steady, warm light. I focused on the core, imagining it pulsing with energy, and let the magic flow into it.
When I opened my eyes, I saw a faint glow emanating from the center of the lantern. The light grew steadier and brighter, casting a soft, cool glow around my camp.
I grinned, feeling a giddiness in my voice. "Well, would you look at that," I said to myself. "A proper magical lantern."
I tested the lantern, adjusting the intensity of the light by focusing on the core. It worked perfectly, dimming, and brightening as I willed it. I placed the lantern in my shelter, feeling proud of my progress.
The afternoon continued with more practice, each attempt building on the last. I created a few more simple items. Not all of them worked, mind you—more… prototypes. "Yeah, let's go with prototypes."
As the afternoon turned to evening, I sat by my fire, the magical lantern casting a warm glow over my camp. "At least I won't be stumbling around in the dark anymore," I said, trying to fill the silence. "Maybe tomorrow I'll try making something more complex, something that'll really stretch what I can do."
That night, as I lay on my makeshift bed, the homesickness that had plagued me the night before felt a little less overwhelming. The stars above still made me feel alone, but the feeling of creating that first magical item had me too excited to care as much.
The blue light of the lantern gently lulled me to sleep as it pulsed slowly throughout the night. "Maybe tomorrow I'll try something even more challenging," I whispered to myself, my eyes growing heavy. "Something that'll really make a difference."
As the night deepened, the forest around me grew quiet, save for the occasional rustle of leaves and distant calls of nocturnal creatures. The lantern's light cast long shadows that danced across the meadow, creating an eerie yet peaceful ambiance.
Unbeknownst to me, just beyond the edge of the meadow, a pair of eyes glinted in the darkness of the forest. Silent and watchful, they observed my every movement. The creature remained hidden, blending seamlessly with the shadows. Its presence was almost undetectable, save for a faint, unsettling feeling that lingered in the air.
The wind picked up slightly, rustling the leaves and causing the shadows to shift. The eyes narrowed, their gaze fixed on my makeshift camp. It was as if the forest itself held its breath, waiting to see what would happen next.
Oblivious to the silent observer, I turned in my sleep, the soft glow of the lantern casting a gentle light on my resting form. The creature watched for a moment longer before retreating into the depths of the forest, leaving no trace of its presence.
Chapter 2 folks! I am really starting to like how this is going, I wanted to really flesh out his arrival and his magic training, the next chapter will be interesting and I hope to give the ideas I have for it, justice. So see you there!
Oh yea, chapter question! If you could have any type of magic (not limited to fairy tail) what would It be?