General Sebas stood before the cadets, his voice resonating with authority. "Welcome, cadets! Today, we embark on an off-world journey to a planet called Barrow, which our military has successfully colonized. Information about the planet has been sent to your bracelets, so please review it later. Since we currently lack a teleporter to Barrow, we will be traveling in our Military Tactical Spaceship, or MTS."
As he spoke, a cloaked ship materialized behind him, causing gasps of astonishment among the students. The vessel was large and intricately designed, clearly built for advanced space travel. Its sleek, dark exterior featured various modules reminiscent of the spacecraft designs found in science fiction. Domed structures and protruding sections hinted at a highly functional design for both combat and exploration, while lights along its surface added to its dramatic appearance.
General Sebas continued, "A member of the Big Four, Aria of the Gravitas family, along with a family friend, will be accompanying us." Although Lucy, another member of the Big Four, was also on board, her presence was kept secret due to her control over the school's technology, including the very ship they were on.
The mention of a Big Four member sparked excitement among the students, many of whom aspired to be noticed by one of the families and join their expedition teams, which hunted beasts for crystals. Those selected would receive food, shelter, and support from the families, with the most powerful students even having the chance to ascend to the upper echelons of the family or marry into it.
After briefly outlining the basic rules and etiquette expected on the ship, the General received some news that made several students grin. "On board, we have five training rooms equipped with a special time dilation feature: one hour in the room equals one year of training. However, only your abilities and combat experience will grow—your physical age will not change. This flight lasts 20 hours, so students can book the rooms. However, only Rooms B, C, D, and E are available for booking, as Room A—the largest—has been reserved for the entire flight by Aria of the Gravitas family."
With that, the students boarded the ship in an orderly fashion. As they entered, a message from Lucy echoed in the minds of Cid, Zeph, Cindy, and Cayden: "Make your way to Training Room A. Scan your watches at the door to gain access; you have been registered as members allowed to enter."
Cid exchanged a quick glance with Zeph and Cayden, a spark of curiosity and anticipation passing between them. Without a word, they nodded in unison and began weaving through the throng of excited students discussing the training rooms. Cindy caught up to them, her expression a blend of determination and curiosity as she matched their pace.
The corridors of the MTS were vast and sleek, illuminated by soft, ambient lighting that gave the ship an otherworldly feel. The group moved swiftly, their boots echoing faintly against the metallic floor as they followed Lucy's directions. Soon, they arrived at Training Room A, its imposing door marked by a glowing panel that scanned their watches as they approached.
With a soft beep, the door slid open, revealing a spacious chamber bathed in a cool, bluish light. The room was unlike anything they had ever seen—its walls shimmered with intricate, shifting patterns, and the air hummed with an almost palpable energy. At the center stood Aria of the Gravitas family, exuding a commanding yet calm presence. Her sharp eyes flicked over them as they entered, a faint smile playing on her lips.
Once everyone was inside, Aria greeted them. The spaciousness of the room immediately caught their attention. Near the center, Lucy sat at a desk behind several computer screens, cables trailing from it. Behind her stood Sera and Vera, while VR pods were scattered throughout the room, enough for everyone.
Aria led the group over to Lucy, who began to brief them on what to expect during the 20-hour journey to Barrow. As Lucy focused on her computer, Cid noticed she appeared sleep-deprived but chose to set that concern aside for now.
"This training room is special," Lucy began. "I've made several upgrades. Since we don't know what to expect at the vampire settlement, we need to train and grow stronger. Given our limited time, I've implemented specific adjustments. Besides using my game to spar with each other—your abilities have been registered in the system—you can also enter the virtual training room. However, Sera and Cid will have exclusive access for the first four hours. Additionally, I've configured the room so that instead of one hour equating to one year, now one second equals one year. Train hard!"
The room buzzed with shock and gratitude as everyone bowed and thanked her.
Lucy's words hung in the air, the weight of their implications sinking in. One second equals one year. The sheer scale of training they could accomplish in such a short time was staggering. Cid felt his pulse quicken, excitement and nervous energy coursing through him. He glanced at Zeph, who was already cracking his knuckles, determination gleaming in his eyes. Cindy, ever the strategist, scanned the VR pods, her mind racing with plans to maximize their time. Cayden stood quietly, his expression thoughtful yet resolute.
"Alright," Aria spoke up, her voice calm but firm. "Let's not waste a moment. Sera and Cid, you're up first in the virtual training room."
Sera stepped forward without hesitation, her usual confidence radiating as she strode toward one of the VR pods. Cid followed, his focus shifting to the challenges that lay ahead. The pods were sleek and futuristic, their interiors lined with soft padding and surrounded by glowing interfaces. As he climbed inside, the lid closed smoothly above him, enveloping him in darkness for a brief moment before the virtual environment sprang to life around him.
The world that unfolded before Cid's eyes was breathtaking—a vast, otherworldly landscape bathed in hues of crimson and gold. Jagged mountains loomed in the distance, their peaks piercing a sky streaked with swirling clouds. The ground beneath his feet was a mosaic of cracked earth and glowing fissures, pulsating with an eerie energy. He looked down at his hands, flexing his fingers experimentally, feeling the familiar surge of his abilities coursing through him.
"Impressive, isn't it?" Sera's voice pulled him from his reverie. She stood beside him, illuminated by the ambient light of the virtual world, her stance confident and ready.
Cid nodded resolutely. "Let's make this count."
Sera stood before him, transforming back into her original form, and declared, "Cid, in these next five hours, I have a lot to teach you. So far, I've already shown you how to harness that power." Cid regarded her intently, like an eager student captivated by a beloved teacher.
Sera posed a thought-provoking question: "Where do you believe abilities originate?" Cid hesitated, responding with uncertainty, "Humans aren't entirely sure. All I know is that it started with a group known as Slayers, whose goal is to eradicate all vampires." Her discomfort was palpable, but Sera pressed on. "First, cast aside everything you think you know about abilities. I'm here to unveil the truth. I am one of the four original vampires, the strongest in magic. I admire you, and since I don't wish to reclaim the throne, I will support you in leading the vampires."
At the mention of leadership, Cid's expression twisted with apprehension. Becoming King was not a path he wished to tread. But before he could voice his thoughts, Sera interjected, "Before you protest about not wanting to be King, listen closely. If your mission to rescue Dee is successful, many vampires will recognize your strength. We inherently respect the powerful and seek to surpass them. Some will admire you and choose to follow, whether you welcome it or not. Others, driven by ambition, will pursue strength at any cost to eclipse you.
Among us vampires, an instinct prevails: we either serve the strong or strive to become the strongest. Sometimes, those who seek greater power may choose to follow, as I have. I resolved that upon my awakening, if I encountered someone more formidable, I would pledge my service to them.
You should understand this: you possess an innate charisma that draws people in. Right now, everyone in the training room is pushing themselves harder to help you rescue Dee. Yes, they care for her, but the moment you give a command, they will follow. They have recognized your strength and leadership, dedicating themselves to your cause. It is now your responsibility to rise to the occasion and grow even stronger for their sake; nothing you say will change their minds.
Even I, an original vampire, can sense the powerful energy radiating from you. I know that if we were to fight seriously, you would succeed in defeating me. So, consider this a warning: when you go to rescue Dee, all the vampire leaders will oppose you, including the Queen, Dee's mother. Persuasion won't matter to us vampires; your actions will speak louder. You must be strong enough to take on at least five vampire leaders on your own. As a lord, you have the potential to defeat me, especially since magic is my strong suit while close combat is not my forte. The leaders, however, are versatile in both combat and their own specific magics. Therefore, I will pour everything I know into you."
Cid looked at Sera with gratitude and admiration. "Thank you, Sera," he said, his smile brightening
Sera continued, "What humans refer to as abilities began with beings known as Deas, or as you might call them, gods. Each Dea has the power to control a specific aspect of magic, specializing in their unique domain. The first humanoid beings to harness magic were the vampires, brought into existence by the God of Darkness, Balzura. In my time, humans could not wield this magical ability. While humans and vampires coexisted, they studied and researched magic alongside us, but this ultimately sowed the seeds of discord between our races. Some humans admired and worshipped us, believing us to be beautiful beings—which they were not wrong about," she added with a playful flip of her hair. "Others feared us but wished to learn more about magic, so they were kind to us. Back then, we vampires were naïve; we managed to teach them magic, but when they betrayed us, we wiped out everyone we had taught. However, it seems the actions of Draven within you have reawakened our peace treaty using the influence skill, a magic unique to vampires."
"According to our research, humans can only master up to the 3rd Realm of Magic, known as the Master Realm. Beyond that, the power is too overwhelming and can kill them. However, any non-human species can master it because our bodies are stronger. Enough of the history lesson; I will now teach you about the tiers of magic and help you exceed the Master Tier."
She paused, then began outlining the five Tiers of Magic:
Tier 1: Novice
Description: This is the starting point for all magic users. Here, they begin to connect with a specific kind of magic. Their skills are basic; they can perform simple spells but lack finesse.
Characteristics:
Can only use one type of magic (like fire, water, earth, or air).
Basic spells are simple tasks, like lighting a tiny flame or creating a splash of water.
Training focuses on learning the basics of their chosen magic.
Tier 2: Apprentice
Description: Novices progress to Apprentices after mastering the basics. At this level, they gain better control over their magic and can use it more effectively in different situations.
Characteristics:
Improved control allows them to perform more complex spells.
Can affect others with their magic, like igniting something or creating barriers.
Training also includes learning to combine their magic with physical skills.
Tier 3: Master
Description: Masters possess a high level of skill with their magic. They know a lot about their craft and can perform spells smoothly to tackle tougher challenges.
Characteristics:
Mastery of many spells within their magic type.
Can perform powerful feats, like controlling large amounts of elemental energy or creating shields.
Often take on apprentices to share their knowledge.
Tier 4: Saint
Description: At this level, magic users undergo an experience known as the "Awakening," connecting them deeply with their "Magic Soul," which alters their abilities significantly.
Characteristics:
Transform into a physical and spiritual version of their magic (e.g., a fire magician might grow fiery wings).
Gain powerful abilities that reflect their Magic Soul.
Develop a deeper connection to the magical world, allowing them to blend nature and magic.
Tier 5: Deas (God)
Description: The highest level of magic users, known as Deas or gods, can greatly influence the world around them. Their magic is so profound that they can change reality itself.
Characteristics:
Can manipulate their environment and magical elements (like a water Deas controlling storms).
Can create unique magical realms.
Often seen as protectors and leaders, inspiring worship in lesser beings.
Cid listened intently, the weight of Sera's words settling heavily on his shoulders. This knowledge wasn't merely a history lesson; it was a roadmap to power—a path he needed to walk if he hoped to stand against the vampire leaders and rescue Dee. He felt the gravity of his role as a lord, the expectations of those who followed him, and the responsibility to protect them all.
"How long will it take for me to reach the Saint Tier?" Cid asked, his voice steady but laced with urgency.
Sera smiled faintly, her crimson eyes glinting with a mix of pride and concern. "It depends on your dedication and how far you're willing to push yourself. For most, reaching the Saint Tier takes decades, even centuries. But you're not most people, Cid. You're a lord, chosen by Draven himself. Your potential is… unprecedented."
Cid nodded, determination hardening his features. "Then we don't have time to waste. Teach me everything."
Sera's smile widened, though there was a hint of sorrow in it. "Be careful what you wish for. The path to power is not without its cost. Every step forward will demand something from you—your strength, your resolve, perhaps even your humanity."