Hello guys this is Kamen Rider Duelist, back with another chapter of Silent Magi's Apprentice! This is a bit on the short side, but I feel confident about it. That being said, Kuromu is finally going to partake in the Thaumaturge Trials! Now the Trials themselves are separated into multiple parts. In this chapter, I'm going to cover two of them, and the rest will subsequently follow in the later chapters. So without further ado, here's the next chapter! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! All creative rights belong to Kazuki Takahashi.
The Fallen Ruins.
A set of ancient stone buildings that had been lost to history for centuries until its recent rediscovery. The mages, after discovering these ruins, then excavated and archived whatever knowledge, history, and/or secrets they have uncovered. Even the treasures that were laid to rest in these ruins were taken, leaving the rooms they once sat in, barren and dry. Since then, the stone architectures rarely received visitors that wanted to explore what was left of it, and all its traps were already disarmed.
However, there was one mage that dedicated themselves to studying more of these ruins, as they believed it had more to offer.
He wore a black robe outfit, with golden rims, having several glowing dark violet gems on his attire. He oozed an aura of 'superiority' and high nobility, his wand being a mid-sized staff with a dark blue gem within the center. He looked similar to both the Dark Magician and Chaos Command Magician due to his tilted and curled, pointed hat.
"How could those mages overlook such an important detail?" The mage couldn't help but ask himself, examining a wall that was etched with hieroglyphics. "It was hiding more secrets than they originally thought. Heh… and now that I've found something about the New Era, I can-"
"Krona."
The mage, now named Krona, turned around and saw his Master, Chaos Command Magician, or rather Darius, approaching him, alongside Master Endymion.
"Ah, Masters. What can I help you with?" Krona bowed in respect.
"Your Master tells me that you have discovered a possible clue of the 'New Era'?" Endymion questioned.
"Yes, Master. Have a look at this." Krona pointed to the wall he was examining, prompting Endymion to approach it. "This passage, from my understanding, looks to be some sort of prophecy."
Endymion bent down slightly, peering at the ancient writing for him to read. His eyes weren't what used to be as he had to narrow his eyes and sharpen his focus to read the symbols.
The arrival of Two Lights marks the dawn of a New Age.
What was once lost to Darkness, shall be regained.
The Two Lights will become One, and all shall bask in Its glory.
The Darkness dare not take Its power and all Truth will be revealed.
"Remarkable, is it not? Not only does it foretell the approach of a New Era, but a new Progenitor as well! All within the upcoming Eclipse!" Krona pointed out with delight. "Of course, I'm sure it's mentioning yours truly. Who else but myself could even be considered?"
"Prophecies are meant to be vague, my apprentice." Darius reminded him. "It is not certain."
"Come now! I alone know more magic than any of those fools. I'm the reincarnation of The Progenitor!" He boasted with a chuckle.
"Your arrogance still blinds you, young one." Endymion sighed, turning to face Krona. "Your title is Doomstar Magician for a reason. Your magic is rare and the only magic capable of averting the incoming doom that would befall this world."
"You may still doubt it, Master Endymion, but it is a fact. How else was I able to procure and use a Dark Star Gem, when others believed it to be a myth?" He said, gesturing to his staff's gem.
"Be that as it may, this prophecy does not tell us anything." Endymion stated. "I had considered allowing you to retake the Thaumaturge Trials, but alas I may have been too quick in my judgment."
"We all know that I'll pass. You might as well give me the title of Archsage now." Krona shrugged.
"You will not demand your ranking with the way you are now." Endymion frowned. "You are to earn that title, by going through the proper channels and pass the Thaumaturge Trials with your own strength. You will be monitored closely by our staff members to ensure fairness."
"Hmph, a waste of time if you ask me…" He shrugged, yet nodded.
Endymion sighed at this, before looking at the Chaos Command Magician. Endymion had a feeling that he would regret this decision.
Chapter 10: Trials of Knowledge & Skill
Today was finally it.
Today was the day that Kuromu will finally become a full-fledged Mage.
Ever since coming back from vacation, he had never felt more motivated to pass the Thaumaturge Trials. In fact, he did a lot better in his studies, both written and practical. And he definitely wasn't going to shy away from this opportunity either. He had weeks to prepare for it and finally, after so long, and with confidence, Shizuka knew that he was ready.
"He sure has grown." Nia smiled happily.
"Yes indeed." La Jinn nodded in approval. "I have no doubt that the Young Master will succeed in his Trials."
Nia nodded, though what also changed was Elesia, being much more cozy and protective of Kuromu. She would either hug him to make sure he was safe, or even pampering him. The last incident made the elf act like a mother hen to a chick.
Just then, the door from Kuromu's room opened, revealing the occupant. "Alright, I'm ready to go."
"Not in those clothes," Shizuka replied, approaching him. "I have a gift for you."
"Ooooooh, you're giving him your first kiss?" Nia teased.
*WAPISH!*
"Ow~!" Nia cried out when Elesia did a light chop to her head. "I was kidding!"
Shizuka merely shook her head, before waving her wand. Motes of blue light streamed towards and surrounded Kuromu, engulfing him in light. Moments later, the light faded to reveal… a new outfit!
He wore a unique mage garb, which was a robe and a pair of pants that were white and gold. There was also a blue and gold torso piece on it, with his Master's emblem on the back to show who he is trained and represented by. Following that were his accessories consisting of a calming gem glowing on the buckle that was on his waist. Finishing off his look, was the charm that Kata gave him.
"Whoa… this is…" Kuromu muttered in awe, looking over his new clothes, turning around while giving himself a look once over.
"I hope you like it. Elesia and I worked hard on sewing it last night." Shizuka smiled softly.
"It feels light and breathable…" Kuromu commented, moving his arms around. "And… I feel like I've been given a power boost just from wearing it."
"Elesia was able to bless it with elven magic. You will be protected by any negative effects that you encounter."
Kuromu turned to the blue-skinned elf with a soft smile. "Thank you, Elesia. This means a lot to me."
The Mystical Elf gave a soft smile back and bowed to him. She has still yet to speak, but the smile was appreciated.
"Alright then, let us away, to the Citadel. The ceremony is about to begin soon." Shizuka said, before waving her wand and the magic portal appeared. "Elesia, La Jinn, Nia, you are coming with us as well."
"Woohoo!" Nia cheered.
"This should be quite interesting." La Jinn hummed with a thoughtful nod as Elesia picked up his lamp and Nia sat on Kuromu's shoulder. With this, all of them stepped through the portal. Since Elesia won't be there to guard the house, Shizuka waved her wand to give her abode a protective charm, to bar any intruders from invading, before closing the portal. Finding themselves in the Citadel's town, it looked way busier than usual. It was probably due to the Thaumaturge Trials that would take place in the actual Citadel as numerous mages made their way over.
"Wow, I didn't think the Thaumaturge Trials would be such a huge event. Not that I'm questioning tradition, but is it really that big of a deal?" Kuromu asked with hesitation, "I mean, no pressure on me… right?"
"Relax. You have nothing to fear." Shizuka smiled reassuringly. "The Thaumaturge Trials have been around for centuries, nurturing each generation of mages throughout the years. It is a mere emulation of the trials that Master Endymion endured."
"Master Endymion?" Kuromu blinked.
"You may not have known this, but the Progenitor was Master Endymion's Master."
"What?!" Kuromu gawked.
"Yes, even the Master was once an apprentice like yourself." Shizuka said, before the group walked, following the flow of the crowd. "The story begins with a Demon Mage threatening to destroy our world. The Progenitor and Demon Mage fought to the bitter end, killing each other in the process. In the wake of that battle, much to Master Endymion's grief, the trials he endured, it was all he could do to honor his Master's sacrifice and make the Citadel and Continent to what it is today."
"I see…" Kuromu muttered, lowering his head in remorse. "I… can't imagine what Master Endymion had gone through after losing his Master…"
"It must've been painful…" Nia muttered.
"It was. But… in the end, he was rewarded for his efforts." Shizuka said. "It serves as a lesson to everyone. No matter how many arduous trials you face, even if all hope seems lost, you must never give up. If you do not give up and persevere through what life gives you, you will be rewarded for your efforts."
"Hear. Hear." La Jinn agreed. "The Young Master will will no doubt overcome the odds. He has done quite well for himself since his arrival."
"Thank you, La Jinn. That means a lot." Kuromu smiled softly.
With bated breath, Kuromu made his way to the Citadel, this time determined.
When they arrived, the large crystal doors were already open, leading to the foyer inside. He remembered how spacious it was, being made of stone and marble. He recalled the many pillars lining the hall to support its structural integrity. But surprisingly enough, there was no magic floating in the air, no books to replace in thin air by other mages, and certainly no magical beasts roaming about the marble floor. Instead, it was filled with numerous apprentices and their Masters, waiting for the Master of Magicians to arrive.
"Whoa… so many apprentices…" Nia commented with wide eyes.
"Are you nervous, Kuromu?" Shizuka asked.
"A little, but… I know I can do this." Kuromu nodded.
"Good, I know you can." Shizuka smiled, believing in her apprentice.
"KUROOOOOOO~!"
*WHAM!*
"OHO!" Kuromu was tackled to the ground by a familiar Wind Charmer. "Ow, Wynn, what are you-" He then realized who he was talking to and looked up. "Wynn?!"
"Geez, did you forget me already? I'm hurt." Wynn playfully pouted.
"What are you doing here?" Kuromu asked as he and the Wind Charmer got up.
"I'm here for my Trials, silly!" Wynn giggled.
"What about the others?" Kuromu asked.
"Due to Master having so many apprentices, only one can enter per Trial. And this time it's my turn!" Wynn beamed brightly.
"Oh good, you're here!" Another familiar voice chirped as they looked to see Doriado approaching the group.
"Lady Doriado," Kuromu blinked.
"Kuromu, it's truly good to see you again!" Doriado smiled, hugging the boy.
"Y-Yeah, good seeing you too." Kuromu stuttered.
"Er-hem!" Shizuka cleared her throat intentionally, looking rather perturbed by the public display of affection her friend was showing towards her apprentice.
"Shizuka, its good to see you as well! Glad to see Kuromu here being accepted into the Trials." Doriado said, yet hasn't let go of her hug.
"Yes… a momentous occasion- will you please unhand my apprentice this instant?" Shizuka grumbled.
"Hm? But why?" She tilted her head, "I'm just showing him proper affection and praise." She questioned, despite this being nothing but teasing the two.
"That is not the point." Shizuka said.
"He doesn't seem to mind. Right, Kuromu?" Doriado looked down at the boy.
"Uh… actually…" Kuromu blushed.
"Oho~ someone's jealous~" Wynn snickered.
"I am not!" Shizuka huffed.
"Er-hem." Nia cleared her throat, as she, Elesia, and La Jinn looked at Kuromu. "Mind introducing us to the green bush girl there?"
"Who are you calling a green bush?!" Wynn snapped.
"You and your hair, that's what!" Nia countered.
"What was that?!"
"You heard me!"
A spark of electricity crackles between the Wind Charmer and Dreamsprite.
"Now ladies, no need to be hostile. We are all friends, are we not?" La Jinn mediated.
"My, my, it seems we have some tussles here." Doriado giggled, as she released Kuromu.
"Oh, that reminds me. Mana, er, Dark Magician Girl, wants to use Hiita's hot springs." Kuromu said to Doriado. "If that's alright with you."
"Oh, Mana asked?" Doriado noted but smiled regardless, "Of course she can, she is his fiancée after all. How could I refuse?"
"Great. I'll let her know later." Kuromu said sheepishly.
"Welcome one and all!"
All eyes and ears looked towards the throne of the Citadel as Master Endymion appeared in front of his throne, via teleportation. Selene was also there standing behind him, next to his throne. She noticed Kuromu and Shizuka and simply waved at them with a smile, with the two discreetly waving back.
"As you all know, I am Master Endymion, the Master Magician and Grand Master of the Magical Citadel. I welcome each and every one of you here to the Thaumaturge Trials. Whether new or old, your desire to learn has brought you here. No matter the adversity you face, even if all hope seems lost, never give in. If you persevere through these Trials, you will be rewarded for your efforts. We look forward to seeing which of you are capable of advancing to the next stage of your magical training. And I wish all the very best. Now… let the Trials begin!"
A mage proctor then stepped forward. "All apprentices are to make their way towards the East Hall for registration! Masters and guests are to remain here during the duration of these Trials!"
"Looks like that's your cue." Doriado noted.
"Come along, Nia." Shizuka told the pixie sprite.
"Awww, okay…" Nia pouted before flying over to Shizuka's shoulder.
"Alright, Wynn, let's do this." Kuromu nodded confidently.
"Yeah, let's!" Wynn nodded back with delight before the two apprentices raced off to the East Hall.
"Think they'll be okay?" Nia frowned.
"Not to worry, the Young Master knows what he's doing." La Jinn noted.
"I hope you are right…"
As directed, the apprentices found themselves in the East Hall of the Citadel. They were lined up according to whether they were new or veterans. Those who were new to the Thaumaturge Trials are grouped on the left side, while veterans are grouped to the right. One by one the apprentices slowly registered themselves before being instructed to convene in a lecture hall.
"So the first part is the Trial of Knowledge." Kuromu stated. "I'm guessing it's a general written exam."
"We're going to pass that test like a breeze!" Wynn snickered.
Kuromu rolled his eyes in amusement at her enthusiasm. "Not unless you're really smart like Aussa."
"Hey, you know how I am! Go with-"
"The flow? Ugh… how much drabble are you going to keep spouting out, Wynn?" A new voice rang in their ears. Wynn and Kuromu looked towards the source of the voice and saw Doomstar Magician approaching them.
"Oooh, you again, Krona!?" Wynn glared.
"I thought I told you, it's 'Doomstar'?" He repeated whatever title he was given. "I thought you learned by now not to come back where you don't belong,"
"You know this guy, Wynn?" Kuromu looked at her.
"He's a crummy magician that lies, cheats, and steals." Wynn huffed, with crossed arms.
"Please, it's you mudbloods that are to blame. You're not of true noble birth, nor the reincarnation of The Progenitor, like me! You don't deserve to be here." Doomstar boasted before laying eyes on Kuromu with disgust, "Ugh… speaking of filth… what is that thing?"
"Excuse me?" Kuromu growled.
"That thing you're referring to, is Kuromu. And he's a better mage than you'll ever be." Wynn replied.
"Please… I bet he hasn't learned a Second Tier spell," Krona rolled his eyes. "Let alone have anyone really training him… What idiot does that?"
"Silent Magician, that's who." Kuromu said, before getting in his face. "And if you ever insult Shizuka-sensei again, you will live to regret it."
"Silent… Magician? Never heard of a weakling like that before."
"Why you-!" Kuromu growled as he was about to throw hands with Doomstar Magician, but Wynn got in front of Shizuka's apprentice, to stop him.
"Kuromu, don't. He's not worth it. That's what he wants you to do."
"Tch…" Kuromu grunted and eventually relented.
"Yes, yes. Take your pet and be done. I have a Trial to complete." Krona huffed before marching off to the registration desk.
"What a jerk…" Kuromu spat.
"Tell me about it… This is his third attempt at these Trials…" Wynn sighed.
"Third?" Kuromu asked incredulously.
"Like I said, he's a crummy magician." Wynn pouted. "He's been caught cheating the first two times he tried it. He just can't accept it that there are others that can be better than him."
"He's that petty huh?" He deadpanned, then sighed in exasperation. "Well, here's to hoping that I don't meet him ever again."
"Just be wary should you even see a speck of him during the Trials." Wynn warned.
"Next!" One of the staff members called out.
"Oh, that's our cue." Wynn noted, before she and Kuromu made their way over to the registration desk. "Hi, we're both here to take part in the Trial of Knowledge."
"Name?" The staff member inquired, looking at a clipboard, flipping through the pages.
"Wynn, the Wind Charmer."
"And your Master?"
"Elemental Mistress Doriado."
"Alright thank you, your number is 838." The staff member then turned towards Kuromu. "Are you here to partake in the Trial of Knowledge?"
"I am. My name is Kuromu Kururugi. And my Master is Silent Magician."
"Hmmmmm…" the staff member flipped through the pages of their clipboard. "Aha, here you are. Kuromu Kururugi. This is your first time taking part in the Thaumaturge Trials, yes?"
"It is." Kuromu nodded.
"Well, I wish you the very best on your first Trial. Your number is 426. Have a very good day with your test!" The receptionist smiled brightly.
"Thank you." Kuromu smiled back.
"Go on ahead and take the hall to your left. The Trial of Knowledge will take place there."
With a nod, Wynn and Kuromu took their leave and headed towards the testing location. When they arrived, they were met with the sight of a rather large lecture hall. It was a large and spacious room, with rows of desks lined up and ready for the students to learn. The ceilings and floors are beautifully tiled and and windows allowed for fresh air and sunlight to filter in. Several others apprentices, both new and old are all mingling about. It was like some kind of convention.
"Wow, a lot of people." Kuromu commented in slight awe. "I'm already feeling the pressure, just being here."
"Think of it this way. Either they're new as you are, or messed up and have to do it again." Wynn pointed out with a supportive tap on the shoulder.
"Right."
"Come on, let's get something to eat, before we start."
"Eh? A-Are we allowed to do that?" Kuromu blinked.
"Of course! Gotta have energy for a test, no?" Wynn giggled.
"Uh… fair point. But…" Kuromu trailed off. Looking around, he couldn't see anything akin to that of a cafeteria, let alone a concession stand. Where were they gonna get food?
Wynn smiled knowingly and took the lead, walking over to what looked like a simple magic lacrima. She tapped it, causing ripples to occur from within. Moments later, a portal formed and food appeared for her to take.
"That's… very convenient." Kuromu sweat dropped. "How did you-"
"Just think of what you like and it'll show up." Wynn said.
"O… kay. That shouldn't be too hard." Kuromu said. He then walked towards the lacrima and closed his eyes. Once he got the image of what food he wanted, he tapped on it. Ripples formed, and moments later, his food of choice appeared. A bowl of katsudon, a small bowl of miso soup, and shredded cabbage.
"Oh? What's all this?" Wynn questioned, never seeing such a dish before.
"Well… from what I could remember, it's food from my world." Kuromu said sheepishly.
"Well color me interested." Wynn giggled before taking a nearby seat to eat with her friend.
"Do you… wanna try it?" Kuromu offered.
"Really?!" She gasped with delight.
"I'll take that as a yes." He chuckled, before giving her a pair of chopstick, which he broke in two first, before giving it to her. "Here, hold it like this. And then use your fingers to move the chopsticks, pinch the pork, then pick it up."
Wynn nodded as she attempted to do so, but kept fumbling with the chopsticks, unable to truly grasp and use them properly. "Mmmmm, this is hard."
"It takes practice. Here." he said, before handing her a fork. "Use this for now."
Wynn pouted, but nonetheless accepted the fork. Kuromu then instructed her to try the breaded pork with the rice. She nodded then poked a piece of the breaded pork with some grains of rice stuck together, lifted it, and placed it in her mouth. The moment she did, her eyes widened and sparkled.
"This is amazing!" She said with utter delight, "The pork is strong alone and the grains are weak alone as it pads out the meal, but eaten together gives this a whole new level of deliciousness!" She was almost ready to try and devour the bowl, but stopped herself knowing this wasn't her food. "Er-hem… sorry. This is yours, not mine."
"I could get another one if you want."
"Save it for when we hang out one day." Wynn winked playfully.
"Hehe… right. Anyways, let's eat, before we start the test." Kuromu said, before the two of them dug in. Meanwhile, Krona the Doomstar Magician watched them from afar as he was eating his own food. Though compared to theirs, his was a simple snack. He scoffed at their demeanor. Just looking at them make him sick to his stomach. It almost made him want to puke the snack he was eating now. But… he was a noble. He shouldn't display such vulgarness. Besides, he was going to show everyone that he alone will pass the Thaumaturge Trials and prove to them that he's the greatest of them all.
Besides, he can always deal with such pests later. Especially out of the eyes of the masters.
An hour later, the sound of a door opening caught everyone's attention as the proctor came into the room. He was a rather short old man with pointy ears, round glasses, and a very long white beard that fell to the floor, exceeding a bit of his height. He wore a cap and gown that one would wear at a graduation ceremony and wielded a small staff with a tiny person with a mustache wearing a cap and gown at the tip of said staff.
"Welcome, apprentices. I am the Mathematician. Today is your first step to becoming a true mage. You will be tested through your heart, mind, will and magical prowess over these Trials. If you are to succeed, you must do your best. But be mindful of the rules, as we do not approve of cheaters here. I'm looking at you, Doomstar Magician." He said crossly.
"Hmph." Krona scoffed, turning his head away.
"Now then," the Mathematician said, before raising his staff and twirling it around. Numbers appeared in thin air and they all surrounded the apprentices. Moments later, they turned into sheets of paper, floating over to the students and landing in front of them on their desk. Each paper was filled with questions that needed to be answered. Some were multiple choice, others were true/false, fill in the blanks, and some were short essay questions.
"Your first test, is this simple written test. There is an essay with a prompt that you must answer at the end." Mathematician said. "As long as you answer honestly and truthfully, your integrity and honor as a magician will remain intact." He then waved his staff once more and a timer appeared. The clock was set for two hours. "You have two hours to complete your test. Any questions you fail to answer in time will not count. Good luck to you all. Let the Trial of Knowledge begin!"
With this, the clock started ticking and the test began.
Back at the foyer, Endymion, Selene, and the rest of the Masters watched their apprentices take their Trial in earnest and seriousness. So far, the test was going without a hitch. Elesia, La Jinn, and Nia however went out of the foyer to do something in town since it will be a while before the Trials were complete and Nia didn't want to bore herself to death.
"Well, isn't this a sight for sore eyes. Doriado?" A voice called out as walking into view was Chaos Command Magician.
"Ah, Darius. Well met. Good to see you again." Doriado smiled.
"Yes, it's been far too long." Darius nodded, before turning to Shizuka. "Ah, Silent Magician, you are here as well."
"Indeed. It has been awhile since we last saw one another."
"If you're here, this must mean you finally have an apprentice. Congratulations." Darius bowed in respect.
"Thank you for your kind words, Darius." Shizuka bowed back. "I must assume that if you are here, then…"
The Chaos Command Magician sighed at this, "Yes, my own apprentice is attempting the Trials yet again." He then turned to the astral projection of the apprentices taking their exams. "Master Endymion ensured that he will be closely observed."
"My dear Fire Charmer, still hasn't forgiven him for the last Trial." Doriado sighed.
"Yes, and I still feel regret for my apprentice's actions." Darius said. "But he has changed. This time for sure,"
"We can only hope." Doriado sighed softly, knowing that the mage was a problem child.
"I'm certain of it." Darius nodded firmly. He then leaned in to whisper, "This hasn't been made public just yet, but… my apprentice has found a clue in the Fallen Ruins about the New Era."
This grabbed the lady mages' full attention, looking at him in disbelief.
"You cannot be serious." Shizuka said incredulously.
"I thought it to be false as well, but I had Master Endymion take a look for himself and he confirmed it to be genuine."
"What sort of clue was it?" Doriado inquired.
"A prophecy."
"A prophecy?" The ladies blinked.
"Yes… of a new Progenitor…"
Doriado and Shizuka gasped in surprise.
"Again, this has not been made public yet, so it must be kept under wraps. The Prophecy Clan is looking into it further to validate its authenticity."
"Then… could his proclamation about himself… be true?" Doriado questioned.
"That… is still up for debate…" Darius sighed. "But it does prove that a new Progenitor will appear one day. One that'll truly unify our world forever."
"What… did the prophecy say?" Shizuka asked.
"It is as follows: The arrival of Two Lights marks the dawn of a New Age. What was once lost to Darkness, shall be regained. The Two Lights will become One, and all shall bask in Its glory. The Darkness dare not take Its power and all Truth will be revealed."
"As usual, ominous and vague as ever." Shizuka sighed.
"And my apprentice, believes he is what was foretold in the prophecy, but…"
"You highly doubt that." Doriado finished.
"Yes…" Darius sighed once more. "I know he has caused… problems in the past, but… as much as I want to believe in my apprentice… I don't believe he is the New Progenitor."
"That is an understatement." Doriado rolled her eyes, "But I agree. Nobody knows when the first Progenitor even appeared or what they looked like, other than Master Endymion. And even then, for safety reason, Master Endymion refused to reveal The Progenitor's identity. We can't assume someone to say that they're the same person especially with an ego like his."
"I could not agree more." Shizuka said. "Still, this is a momentous discovery, Darius. You can at least be proud of that."
"That is very true. Thank you, Silent."
"Shizuka…. That is the name my apprentice gave me." She corrected.
"Oh?" This made Darius blink with surprise, "That is lovely to hear, Shizuka."
"She is quite smitten with her apprentice, and vice versa." Doriado giggled.
"Doriado, please." Shizuka hissed in embarrassment. "Now is not the time."
"Hehe, well. I hope he succeeds, so you two can hit it off." Darius chuckled with amusement.
"Darius, come now, surely you jest." Shizuka pouted with a blush.
"I enjoy a good tale of master and student becoming one as much as the next person." He playfully shrugged.
"Sorry, you cannot get out of this one." Doriado giggled, much to Shizuka's dismay.
As time marched on, the examinees were trying their hardest to answer the questions given to them, but eventually they caved in and the cheaters were weeded out.
"Number 142, 237, and 305! You're disqualified for cheating!"
"Number 744 and 745! You're disqualified for cooperating in the test!"
"Number 599! You're disqualified for using your telepathic ability! The same goes for Number 805!"
"Oh man… I don't know if I can get through this…" Kuromu muttered to himself again while sweating profusely. The pressure was too much for some examinees and some of them actually quit the test, or actually passed out from stress.
"Number 167, 134, 159, and 288 has declared to quit! Disqualified!"
"Numbers 603 and 647 have passed out from stress and anxiety! Please take them to the infirmary and mark them Disqualified!"
"Oh man…" Kuromu got out. Somehow someway he managed to get to the end of the test, the essay prompt being in front of him. He kept writing and writing, until-
"Number 426!"
Kuromu suddenly stood up stiff as a board. "YES SIR!" He squeaked comically, as all eyes were turned to him. What did he do?! He kept his eyes on his own paper! He answered everything to the best of his ability without cheating!
"The test is already over."
"…Eh?" Kuromu blinked. He looked at the short Mathematician.
"You were so engrossed in your test that you forgot about the time." Mathematician tilted his head. Kuromu looked over to the timer and saw that indeed the timer had already ran out. Kuromu sighed heavily as he sat back down, slumped in his seat, his ears smoking out. Some of the examinees that remained chuckled in amusement.
"Hmph, pitiful…" Doomstar huffed with a roll of his eyes.
"I'm sorry, sir. It won't happen again…" Kuromu sighed.
"Oh, not to worry, young lad." Mathematician chuckled in amusement. "I found it quite refreshing that you would take the Trial of Knowledge in great earnest."
"Ehehe… well, I do want to pass, after all." Kuromu chuckled sheepishly.
"Still, Well done." Mathematician nodded, then turned to other apprentices. "And well done for all who remained. While I go and test these scores, please remain here until the staff members call your number to bring you to your individual Trials of Skill." The older mage said, then used his wand to collect and gather the remaining tests into his hand, and subsequently left the lecture hall. The apprentices that remained sighed in relief.
"You okay, there?" Wynn asked.
Kuromu groaned in response. "I was about to die~"
"Oh don't be like that! Just be glad you focused and didn't pay much attention to the ones who failed." Wynn patted his back, reassuring the mage.
"Easy for you to say…" Kuromu grumbled under his breath, "So anyways, what's next? The proctor said something about individual Trials of Skill."
"Indeed, each Trial of Skill is unique and designed for each person taking the test." Wynn explained. "So they choose a proctor that best suits that person's Discipline of Magic."
"So for my case, since I have two, I'd be paired with a proctor… or rather, two Proctors. One for my Elemental Magic, and the other for my Alchemy." Kuromu pondered, then groaned as his anxiety reared its ugly head, "Great, two chances for failure… no pressure there."
"Relax you got this!" Wynn grinned with a thumbs-up. "Just remember your training with us Charmers and you'll do fine!"
"R-Right. My training with you all." Kuromu got out.
"Exactly! So stop doubting yourself!" Wynn smiled, trying to show support before whispering, "Plus, you have your Master watching… can you afford to be worried when she's watching you?"
"E-Eh? She's watching? Where?" Kuromu looked around wildly. "Oh no, she saw me act all flustered! Agh, I'll never live this down~!" He squatted down, pulling on his hair.
"Relax, its in a special seating for all Masters to view their apprentice's progress. Think of it as… simple spectators for us." Wynn noted, "You still got this far anyways. So I'm sure she's proud of you."
Kuromu sighed, "Yes, I guess that's true…"
One by one staff members came into the lecture hall and called out their numbers, each of them being escorted to an area where they will take their individual Trial of Skill. The numbers grew thinner and thinner, and eventually Wynn's number was called, leaving Kuromu on his own. Unfortunately, he and Krona were all that's left staying in the room. Kuromu did all he could to not pay attention to him so that he didn't start anything with the arrogant mage.
"I should've expected a commoner like you to pass a simple written test. Even a monkey can do it." Krona scoffed.
"…" Kuromu simply ignored him, waiting for his number to be called.
"Yes… be silent like the worm you are. You are beneath me. Because after this? You won't ever succeed… Not even for the embarrassment of a 'Master' you have."
*POP!*
Kuromu gritted his teeth, but kept his cool.
Krona clicked his tongue in annoyance, hoping that would get him. Alas, he didn't have time to taunt the commoner. He knows that he'll win in the end.
Soon, a staff member came into the room. "Number 426. Your Trial of Skill is prepared."
Kuromu sighed in relief, standing up to take his leave, but not before looking over his shoulder, "If I were you, I'd be more worried about myself than about others." He said, before finally walking off with the staff member. Kuromu felt a deathly chill down his back as he left, but shook off the feeling. He followed the staff member that led him to his Trial of Skill, and eventually found themselves in front of what appeared to be doors to a laboratory of sorts. The staff member knocked on the door.
*KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK*
"Number 426 has arrived to partake in his Trial of Skill." The staff member said.
"Let them in…" A lazy voice called out.
"They are ready to take you in. Good luck."
Kuromu nodded, thanking the staff member before the door automatically opened. Kuromu entered, and the moment he stepped inside, the door suddenly closed behind him, spooking him. He turned back to find himself in a laboratory with its spacious and wide walls of cobblestone and marble; multiple chemistry stations in a 5x5 arrangement were also present. Each had a set of alchemy equipment, with shelves of ingredients lining the walls, used for alchemy and potion creation alongside multiple brewing stands. In front was a chalkboard wall with sliding ladders teachers would use to solve their potion creation problems. There were even vents and openings in the walls for fumes and vapors to escape to when active experiments are going on.
Laying lazily on a couch was a young lady with long purple hair, but instead of what looked to be a proctor or anyone of professional level, she seemed to be what could be considered 'a lazy neet' as her attire looked like pajamas, and goggles that looked more like an eye mask.
"Uh… Garie? Is that you?" Kuromu winced, wondering if he was seeing double. "What's with the new hair color?"
"Hm?" 'Garie' looked up at him, "You know my sister?"
"Huh? Sister?!" Kuromu gawked, quickly doing a double take at the proctor's uncanny resemblance to the Alchemic Magician.
"Yeah, she's my older sister. I'm Gabby or as my title proclaims 'Slacker Magician'." She corrected.
'That fits too well to a T…' Kuromu thought with a sweat bead dropping from his brow.
"Ugh… let's just get this over with… I wanna sleep." Gabby sighed. "Just make whatever the text says to make, and I'll judge if you pass or not… Not that it matters, nobody cares about alchemy."
"Uhh… I care." Kuromu said, walking towards the lab station.
"That's what they all say before failing my trial."
Kuromu's mood went from confused to slightly intimidated. If the test was that hard then he would likely have to take things seriously.
"Oh yeah, one more thing. Since you're learning Elemental Magic and Alchemy, this test will require both of your Disciplines of Magic to work together. So good luck with that." Gabby waved off nonchalantly. Kuromu frowned at this, before looking at the text… which was blank.
"There's nothing on here."
"Oh yeah, I lied about that." Gabby said, making Kuromu gawk. "You're gonna have to get creative. The ingredients are on the shelves there, so do what you want with it." She gestured over to one side of the walls where they were. Kuromu glowered at this notion. Garie's sister must like trolling people a lot during her Trial. So with a sigh, he went over to the shelves of ingredients to scan the items. What could he exactly make with them? Sure, he could go by the books that he read, but something told him that going down that route would give him an automatic failure. But then a thought came to him.
'Alright, you want me to get creative? You got it.' Kuromu said, before grabbing the ingredients he needed. After cracking his fingers and doing some stretches, he started working. He was going to do something that many would think to be impossible.
"Hm? Are those-" Gabby raised an eyebrow.
"I'm making a Potion of Healing." Kuromu nodded.
"Hmm… basic… but not bad. Many try to go with something special and out do one another."
"Oh just wait until you see." Kuromu said.
He did as he normally would. First, he poured 36 oz. of spring water into the cauldron and heat until it comes to a light boil. While the water was heating up, he followed the next step, adding Mana Crystals into the mortar and crushing them into a fine powder using the pestle. He placed the shards into the ceramic bowl, grinding the magical gemstones with the pestle until they became fine powder, and measured two tablespoons to place 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.
After that, he took the cauldron off the fire for it to cool off. While he waited for the mixture to be room temperature, he decided to strike a conversation with Gabby. "So… what made you and Garie like alchemy so much?"
"With her, she wanted to show how much its needed outside of magic. Me? Because I don't have to worry about people bothering me." Gabby yawned. Judging from how she is, it's most likely she too had passion, but many kept failing her tests to warrant any interest from those who could succeed.
"That's… all?" Kuromu tilted his head. "Why is that?"
"Like I said… too many try to show off, thinking they know better and create poo results… I'm tired of lackluster 'apprentices'…" Gabby huffed, looking away with annoyance.
"Well, I'm not those people." Kuromu said.
"Lemme guess… like Krona, you're 'above' them all?" She huffed. Kuromu guessed that he most likely had him in a previous Trial.
"No, actually." Kuromu refuted.
"Excuse me?"
"I just wanted to make it because it was the easiest. Nothing too fancy, and nothing that could go wrong. Plus, it's fun." He answered with a sincere grin.
"Well look at you Mr. Humble." Gabby chuckled, "Who do you think you are, Neos?"
"Who?" Kuromu blinked in confusion.
"Never mind." Gabby shook her head.
"Still… I think Alchemy is a good way of understanding." Kuromu trailed off. "It's the beginning of any attempt to understand the world and how it works. Here I am flung into this world trying to figure it out and the world I once lived in. The memories I had are still in pieces, but like alchemy, I can still try to understand."
Gabby remained silent, yet she was now paying attention to the boy to see if he truly was being honest with what he said.
"And this world, I have to admit, in a way, all of it is just one big cauldron. The ingredients are the people I met, and the magic I learned is something that ties it all together." He then looked at Gabby with a genuine smile. "That's what makes magic and alchemy fun, don't you think?"
Gabby looked surprised, then blushed, quickly looking away as she was unsure what that feeling was.
"Ah, I think it's ready now." He said, snapping Gabby out of it. Kuromu then imbued his magic and the concoction turned green. Once he did that, he used a ladle to place the green liquid into a potion bottle and corked it. However, what confused Garie was that he took out more potion bottles to put on the table and placed them in front of Potion of Healing.
"What are you doing?" Gabby asked.
"I'm going to show you that your passions and dreams are worth pursuing." Kuromu smiled, before closing his eyes to concentrate. He then held out his hand towards the Potion of Healing. "As Source of Thy Power I Order Thee…" He said, as a magic circle appeared below his feet and the Potion of Healing glowed. "Decipher the Laws of Creation. Assume the guise of my thoughts, change form at my call. I beckon the Elements at my command."
The images in his mind were conjured, as each element of Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth appeared. He then imagined the Potion of Healing in front of him as magical energy flowed from the bottle and towards the Elements, to which all of them glowed as well.
"Let the Elements protect and resist those that do you harm," Kuromu recited before his eyes opened, revealing them to be glowing deep silver. "Element Conversion!"
As this happened, Gabby's eyes widened as the image Kuromu envisioned in his mind were mirroring the exact same phenomenon in the real world, the Elements being encased in the bottles. The trails of magic from the Potion of Healing then connected to the empty ones, slowly filling up with different colored liquids. Red for Fire, Blue for Water, Green for Wind, and Yellow for Earth. All of this while the Potion of Healing was emptying or rather, it was becoming clear and void of color.
'Did he just-!' Gabby gawked.
Endymion's eyes widened considerably, seeing the magical projection before him, alongside Selene. Not just at the magic he was seeing, but the silvery glow that supplanted Kuromu's natural blue eyes.
"Beloved, this is…" Selene said in disbelief to her husband. "What are we witnessing?"
"We are witnessing a new creation… one from his true nature…" Endymion noted.
The rest of the Masters were also surprised by this, including Shizuka, as they watched the astral projection in front of them. The power he was displaying… words can't describe what she was seeing and feeling.
'My dear Kuromu…' Shizuka muttered in her thoughts, softly smiling.
Moments later, the light died down. Kuromu having completed his spell, sighed tiredly as his eyes closed as the silver glow dissipated. Gabby could only look at him and the potion bottles in shock. What he did was certainly difficult if not impossible to do! He changed the very nature and properties of the Potion of Healing, converting it, then dividing it into Elemental Resistant Potions!
He performed True Alchemy!
Opening his eyes up once more, he turned to Gabby with a tired smile, "So? Did I pass?"
Gabby blinked, snapping out of her stupor. She walked over and casted a spell to analyze the Element Resistant Potions. Her eyes widened with surprise after completing the analysis. Not only did he alter the potions' properties, but added something brand new! What that is, she didn't know, but now it was something she needed to study.
"Yes, you passed with flying colors."
"Thank… goodness…" Kuromu smiled and chuckled weakly, before wobbling and falling over, but not before Gabby caught him. She was worried for a moment, but those worries were cast aside when she heard him slightly snoring.
"Heh, guess it took all he had to do it. His Master will be here any second to take him." Gabby smiled before her mind drifted back to the silver glow. 'Still, those eyes… they couldn't be a sign, could they?'
Darkness.
An entity of emptiness that one cannot see, feel, smell, or taste. Hearing within the void is limited, as sound can come from any and everywhere. This space of nothingness is a place of uncertainty and the unknown, where everything around seems virtually endless. If one were to be confined in this prison of negativity, their senses will be overwhelmed and amplified a hundred fold, losing their sanity lost in the process.
And in this darkness, evil stirs.
A pair of red glowing eyes opened, filled with malice, cruelty, and hatred.
"This magic…" The entity noted before chuckling, "At last… one has arrived! I will find this one… and I will take their power for myself and become unstoppable!"