NOVEL NEXT Chapter 16: Chapter 16
Leylin could feel himself approaching a breakthrough to a Level 2 Acolyte. The path to advancing had been increasingly difficult, as constructing the 24 mind runes was a complex process.
The difficulty grew exponentially with each additional rune, requiring not only precise spiritual force control but also a deep accumulation of knowledge.
One day, after finishing his duties of cleaning the experiment laboratory, Leylin made his way toward his mentor, Dorotte.
"Teacher! I want to purchase the crystal ball with the magic spell formulas!" Leylin said, standing respectfully in front of Dorotte.
It had been only three months since his last breakthrough, and now he was already on the verge of becoming a Level 2 Acolyte. Even among fifth-grade talents, this level of progression was extraordinary. His speed was remarkable—perhaps in another twelve to fifteen months, he would reach Level 3. Even within the entirety of the academy, such a rate of improvement made him a top prospect.
Dorotte observed his student with satisfaction. Smart, talented, hardworking, and possessing an excellent attitude—Leylin was an ideal student, one that any professor would be pleased to teach.
"Oh! You want to begin learning rank 0 spells?" Dorotte stroked his skeletal chin, his hollow green eyes glowing slightly with interest.
"I have nearly finished constructing my mind runes, and there's only one more step left before I advance to a Level 2 Acolyte. I wish to make some preparations beforehand!"
"So fast… as expected of you," Dorotte mused. "Very well. The academy's price for an introduction to spell models is 30 magic crystals. However, I am pleased with your progress. I will grant you the knowledge on a loan—you may pay me back later."
Dorotte smiled faintly. Professors had the authority to decide the pricing of knowledge for their students. They could offer discounts or even provide information free of charge, depending on their mood and the student's merit.
"Here, this is a crystal ball containing the introduction to magic spell models."
Dorotte retrieved a fist-sized crystal ball from a wooden shelf and handed it to Leylin. Golden words shimmered inside its transparent core, rippling like flowing water.
Leylin bowed slightly before taking the crystal ball, carefully pocketing it.
These crystal balls were invaluable tools for recording information. They could store a vast amount of data, far surpassing parchment or books. However, they were single-use artifacts—once accessed, the knowledge inside would fade away permanently, making them highly expensive.
Late at night, Leylin sat cross-legged on his bed, holding the crystal ball in his hands.
Magi categorized the spells available to Acolytes as Rank 0 spells, distinct from the true magic spells of full-fledged Magi. Regardless of whether an Acolyte was Level 2 or Level 3, they were only capable of utilizing Rank 0 spells.
The principle of magic spell models was to construct a stable model within one's mind using spiritual force. This model would act as a catalyst, enabling the Acolyte's spiritual force to attract and transform external energy particles into a spell.
To simplify, spiritual force functioned as the primer, while the spell model acted as the catalyst. Though the primer remained the same, different catalysts attracted different energy particles, forming distinct spells.
Leylin pondered over this for a moment before placing the crystal ball away.
Constructing a spell model was a delicate and complex task. Any failure would impair one's spiritual force, requiring at least half a month for recovery. This was a significant bottleneck that even fifth-grade Acolytes struggled to overcome with ease.
Beyond Level 2, one needed to construct and purchase various spell models, a costly endeavor. If not for Dorotte's favoritism, Leylin would have needed to risk his life multiple times to afford the necessary magic crystals.
This further emphasized the blood price required to walk the path of a Magus.
Still, such concerns were for later. His immediate priority was advancing to Level 2.
The difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 Acolyte was profound. While Level 1 Acolytes could store only a minuscule amount of energy particles and had basic magical resistance, they lacked the ability to cast spells.
Level 2 Acolytes, however, gained access to Rank 0 spells—directly amplifying their destructive capabilities through spell models.
"I have completed the construction of my 24 mind runes," Leylin murmured to himself. "Tonight, I will advance to Level 2."
With determination in his eyes, he closed them and began his breakthrough.
The night passed in deep meditation.
As dawn's first light streamed into the dormitory, Leylin opened his eyes. A surge of power coursed through his body.
"I have finally advanced to Level 2!"
He could sense the difference immediately. The energy particles within his body had multiplied several times over compared to his Level 1 state.
....
A few months later, In the academy's grand library, Leylin sat at a long table, poring over a book.
Apart from attending classes and assisting Dorotte with experiments, he spent most of his free time here.
"So that's where I made a mistake…" he muttered, flipping back through the pages. "I see… The crafting direction can influence the outcome as well."
"Whew… I finally understand why the final step fails!" He exhaled deeply.
Though Dorotte had provided him with basic rune crafting knowledge, there were many finer details Leylin had to uncover on his own. He had learned much through diligent reading and had even paid a professor for further explanations who also recommended him a few books.
Many Acolytes, short on magic crystals, could only browse free materials in the library. But thanks to Dorotte's favor, Leylin had resources to spare.
With all the recommended materials now studied and analyzed thoroughly through experiments, it was time to put his knowledge into practice once again.
"My accumulation of knowledge should be sufficient. I'll attempt to craft a Basic Reinforcement Rune again today."
Returning the books to the shelves, Leylin left the library and headed toward his room.
Inside his quarters, a large black table dominated the space. His personal alchemy apparatus was neatly arranged upon it.
After multiple practice attempts, he was now familiar with these tools and already finished analyzing the crafting process—it was time to finally succeed.
Leylin focused his attention and retrieved a box containing his materials: ink, a fine-tipped brush, powdered substances, and several strange-colored liquids.
He placed them on the table and began his work, diligently using the brush to draw various diagrams in an exquisite array. A light blue flame flickered around the rune's grooves, its glow shifting into a deep red.
Picking up the rune material, Leylin chanted, "Rithaoolev!"
A tendril of spiritual force wove through the rune's structure, activating the enchantment. A few wisps of black gas escaped, indicating the expulsion of impurities.
Only Acolytes of Level 1 or higher could attempt rune crafting—some steps required direct manipulation of energy particles.
Once the impurities were expelled, Leylin stabilized the rune, watching as its luster slowly dimmed to a controlled state.
"The first step is completed!" He nodded in satisfaction. "The crafting degree isn't bad!"
He proceeded to energize the rune's channels, then carefully calibrated the enchantment by mixing several powders.
A reaction occurred as the black powder merged with the rune, causing a surge of energy.
"Strengthen!" he commanded in the Byrn language.
A fine mist emerged, condensing into a stable, structured layer.
With a final extension of his spiritual force, the rune emitted a soft glow.
"Pa!" A faint cracking sound resonated—proof of successful completion.
Leylin recited the final incantation and smiled.
"It's completed! I've successfully crafted an Enhancement Rune!"
Though slightly imperfect, the rune was worth around 10 magic crystals—far exceeding its production cost of just 2.
"Finally! After six months of practice, I've succeeded!" He clenched his fist, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment. This was only the beginning of his mastery over rune crafting.
'This kind of speed, I am sure Dorotte would be surprised. As expected of my genius.'