Chapter 387: Chapter 387: The New Archmage
"… Therefore, I believe that Transfiguration is not merely a part of the school of Transformation magic.
It does not change things from a spatial perspective; rather, it truly alters the essence of an object, turning one thing into another—though in most cases, this change is only temporary.
In summary, whether theoretically or in practical effects, the magic of Transfiguration is entirely distinct from Transformation magic.
For the sake of research and study, we should classify it as a new school of magic!"
Alaric concluded his speech with a captivating voice, then lightly snapped his fingers.
Instantly, the various birds and beasts surrounding him transformed back into the original podium, candles, oil lamps, and the books of the mages sitting in the front row.
It was as if the earlier transformations had never occurred.
The next moment, the large tiered classroom in the Violet Castle erupted with thunderous applause.
This applause was not only for Alaric's speech but also for his extraordinary Transfiguration skills.
Even in this plane where magical energy—referred to here as arcane—was much denser than in the Harry Potter world, such a display of Transfiguration was unprecedented and remarkable.
"An outstanding speech! Truly splendid!"
As the applause gradually subsided, an old man dressed in a purple robe with white hair stood up, loudly expressing his admiration.
With his voice, most of the noisy chatter in the back row quieted down.
In fact, this academic presentation was the largest Alaric had ever hosted, and the classroom, capable of holding over a hundred people, was filled with the upper echelon of mages from Dalaran, including many who held the title of Archmage.
Yet, even they lowered their voices in respect when this elderly man spoke.
Before them stood Antonidas, the current leader of Dalaran and one of the six members of the Kirin Tor council—the most influential mage in Dalaran today.
"You are indeed an exceptionally remarkable young man," he said, holding his staff and slowly walking towards Alaric, nodding at him.
"You have accomplished an unprecedented achievement. In fact, we in the Kirin Tor council have been discussing whether to grant you the 'Kirin Tor Supreme Wisdom Sash'—of course, I can privately reveal to you that this discussion is merely a formality."
As he spoke, the old man winked at him.
At that moment, Alaric felt as if he were seeing Albus Dumbledore.
Interestingly, these two old men did share many similarities.
Both were academic leaders, both could be considered among the strongest mages (at least within mortal bounds), both were just and kind, and both had a brilliant student who delved into darkness to conquer death and ultimately became a villain (Antonidas's student had yet to betray him), and both indirectly died at the hands of these traitor students.
They also mentored another younger savior…
But I digress.
Although the elderly man before him had a kind face like Dumbledore, Alaric could sense deep wisdom and a surging magical power from his somewhat clouded eyes.
At least he was much more powerful than Alaric himself—though, of course, that would be a different matter once Alaric fully unleashed his draconic power.
Nevertheless, in Alaric's view, with such immense power and charisma, it was evident that Antonidas was indeed deserving of his role as the spiritual leader of Dalaran.
With this thought, he returned a bow to the old man.
"You flatter me, Archmage Antonidas," he said modestly. "Thank you for your recognition. I was merely fortunate to stumble upon a field that had not been explored by those before me."
"Regardless, strength does not deceive." Antonidas shook his head.
"The skill you displayed in Transfiguration shows that this is not an accomplishment born merely of luck—rather, all luck belongs to those who are well-prepared to seize opportunities.
Even I… or even the most powerful one, would not have achieved such remarkable accomplishments at your age.
So, while it may not yet be time, I believe I can say this: congratulations, Archmage Sand (Sand Leaf, a translation of Alaric's alias, with each word directly translated from his name; although Azeroth has its own common language, we'll use English here for now)."
Upon hearing Antonidas's words, many of the younger mages present were left stunned.
What was going on?
It was one thing to grant the "Kirin Tor Supreme Wisdom Sash," but for the pioneering Archmage who proposed the Transfiguration school to be awarded such a high honor was certainly well-deserved.
However, why the title of Archmage?
In this world, while there was no specific ranking system for mages, there existed an accepted hierarchy.
Typically, mages were referred to as Mage Apprentices, Mages, and Archmages, from lowest to highest.
Perhaps on this planet known as Azeroth, there were spellcasters whose magical powers surpassed even those of regular Archmages, such as the guardians of the Tirisfal Council who dedicated themselves to hunting demons, or the Queen of the Night Elf Empire, Azshara, who existed millennia ago.
However, for mages, Archmage was considered the highest title.
Those who became Archmages were all, without exception, powerful and academically accomplished individuals.
In Dalaran, Archmages held a status just below that of the Kirin Tor's six-member ruling council.
They provided suitable advice to the ruling council and had specific responsibilities, with all other mages serving under an Archmage—at least one of them.
Of course, with Dalaran's freedom and openness towards magic, every mage had considerable power and autonomy. The term "service" merely referred to obligation, but it still highlighted the Archmage's status.
Conversely, becoming an Archmage was quite challenging. First, one had to possess sufficient strength; second, one must have enough wisdom, particularly in the field of magic—achieving this was no small feat and could not be accomplished merely through excellence in one aspect.
Yet, they heard from Antonidas that the elderly man actually referred to this young man as "Archmage!"
It sounded like this young "fortunate one" would soon be awarded the title of Archmage by the Kirin Tor council.
But why him?
No one doubted Antonidas's integrity; the old man's long-standing reputation and loyalty to Dalaran had earned the trust of the mages.
However, Alaric's youthful appearance inevitably raised questions about whether he possessed the power and knowledge worthy of the title of Archmage.
Only those with exceptional magical abilities, those true Archmages, could see through Alaric's skillful silent wandless casting (in Azeroth, this refers to a staff, distinct from a wand, which is used to amplify magical effects) and the complex, multifaceted manipulation of Transfiguration magic, allowing them to glimpse his true capabilities.
Regardless, everyone realized that a new powerful figure was about to rise in Dalaran.
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