"The cave of beginnings?" Kaelen asked with a confused look on his face, but General Cao remained calm as he replied while he walked towards the altar at the center of the wide cavern.
"Why this cavern was given this name is because this was where the founder of the Pace Setter Academy started learning magic"
"Wait, what!?" Kaelen muttered in shock and disbelief as he involuntarily took a few steps back.
"Shocked right? I also had that same reaction when I discovered the history of this place" General Cao quickly said with a soft chuckle.
"Why did you bring me to such a prestigious place Venerable?" Kaelen quickly asked with a curious look on his face. General Cao suddenly stopped after he heard the question Kaelen gave him.
"That is because you will meditate in this same place for three days" General Cao suddenly said in a deep and calm voice as he turned to look at Kaelen.
"Huh?" But when Kaelen heard what he said, he immediately became blank as he muttered. But General Cao didn't seem to have the time to spare as he quickly turned back towards the altar and said while he pointed at the same altar.
"Now then, I want you to climb that altar"
"If I may ask Venerable, why are you giving me such a special place to train?" But Kaelen didn't immediately went towards altar, instead he continued to stand in his spot as he asked that question.
When General Cao heard this question, he suddenly brought out a small smile on his face as he answered.
"That is because my instincts told me to do so"
"Your instincts?" Kaelen quickly asked back with a more perplexed look on his face.
"Believe it or not, but I always follow my instincts in whatever I want to do. That is what even made me to reach this stage anyway" General Cao said as he shrugged his shoulders. But when Kaelen heard him, he remained silent as he thought.
'It seems like I have to no choice but to also follow his instincts'
After that, Kaelen finally began to walk until he stepped on the altar and carefully sat down.
"Well then, I will come you up in three days time. And remember, make the most of this divine opportunity, it doesn't come twice" General Cao said calmly as he watched Kaelen trying to adjust himself on the altar before he suddenly vanished from that place.
"Heww, am finally comfortable" After a few minutes went by, Kaelen finally spoke up with a relaxed look now on his face.
After that, Kaelen looked around the cavern before he muttered in a really low voice.
"Now that am alone, I can finally check out my stats"
"Online: Blades of Eternity"
The moment Kaelen uttered that sentence, a screen suddenly appeared right in front of Kaelen, but he was already used to it by now. After the screen popped up, contents began to appear on the screen.
Name: Kaelen
Level: 5
Health: 300/300
Mana: 150/150
Strength: 50
Agility: 25
Intelligence: 20
Endurance: 15
Skills: Basic Swordsmanship, Minor Healing, Mana Shield, Air Slash.
[You have 5 free attributes points unused]
"Damn, what a power up!! And I even have a new move?" Kaelen exclaimed with a shocked look on his face while he skimmed through the contents on the screen right in front of his face.
'Huh? What is this?' But he didn't dwell on this for too long as his eyes quickly caught a bracketed sentence at the bottom of the screen.
[Hidden Quest Alert! Begin the mission?(Yes/No)]
"A hidden quest?" Kaelen muttered with a curious look on his face as he tapped on the "Yes" word in the inner bracket. In the next moment, a series of notification began to pop up on the screen in front of his face.
[Hidden Epic Quest Activated!]
[Description– Uncover the mysteries behind the way of the sword]
[Duration– 30 days]
[Rewards– Unknown]
[Punishment for Failure– Downgrade by a level]
"What!?" Kaelen muttered in disbelief after he went through the contents of the Quest twice.
"How in the world am I suppose to complete a quest that I still don't know any way around it throughout my life in one month!!?" He later exclaimed with a frustrated look on his face.
'Ok, calm down Kaelen. You can do this' But after a few minutes of unnecessarily ranting, Kaelen began to console himself internally while he took in deep breaths. After a while, he finally muttered.
"Ok, let's see how this altar works"
After that, Kaelen quickly closed his eyes after taking in a final deep breath as he began to meditate.
As he sank deeper into his meditation, the runes on the altar began to glow more intensely, their light growing brighter and more vibrant. The symbols seemed to come alive, shifting and changing, their patterns swirling around Kaelen in a mesmerizing dance.
The hum of energy grew louder, resonating through his entire being.Kaelen felt a warm, tingling sensation spreading from the base of his spine, moving upward through his body. It was as if the altar's energy was merging with his own, amplifying his inner strength and clarity.
He could feel the Blade of Eternity at his side responding to the energy, its presence a comforting and grounding force.The cavern itself seemed to react to the activation of the altar. The faint, phosphorescent moss on the walls glowed more brightly, illuminating the space with a soft, ethereal light.
'Huh? What am I witnessing?'
The air grew charged, filled with a palpable sense of anticipation and potential.Images and sensations began to flood Kaelen's mind—fragments of ancient battles, glimpses of forgotten rituals, and the echo of voices long silenced.
He felt a deep connection to the warriors and sages who had come before him, their spirits reaching out across time to share their wisdom and strength.The energy swirling around him intensified, forming a protective cocoon of light. Kaelen's breathing slowed, becoming more rhythmic and synchronized with the pulsing of the runes. He felt a profound sense of unity with the cavern, the altar, and the very essence of the Blade of Eternity.
As the meditation deepened, the symbols and runes on the altar began to project beams of light that intertwined and formed intricate patterns in the air above him. These patterns slowly converged, creating a luminous, three-dimensional mandala that hovered just above his head.
Kaelen felt his consciousness expand, reaching beyond the confines of his physical body. He tapped into a wellspring of knowledge and power, understanding intuitively how to harness the energy of the altar and channel it through himself.
The connection between him and the Blade of Eternity grew stronger, the sword's ancient magic merging seamlessly with his own burgeoning abilities.After what felt like both an eternity and an instant, the energy began to recede, the glowing runes dimming to their original faint shimmer.
The beams of light above him slowly dissolved, the mandala fading into the air. Kaelen opened his eyes, feeling invigorated and enlightened.
Right at that moment, Kaelen slowly began to open his eyes as he felt a wave of a profound energy wash over him. Not only that, but he could notice his senses has heightened as he could hear faint bird sounds from a very considerable distance away.
"How are you feeling now?" But he didn't dwell on that sensation for long as he suddenly heard a familiar voice below him which prompted him to quickly open his eyes.
Who he saw was actually General Cao who was looking at him with a satisfied look on his face.
"Huh? What are you doing here Venerable?" Perplexed, Kaelen quickly asked as he hurriedly stood on his feets.
"What do you mean by what am I doing here? Your three days here has been completed" General Cao replied with the same smile on his face. But when Kaelen heard him, he immediately feel blank as he muttered.
"What?"
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'How is my three days up?' Kaelen thought with a confused and skeptical expressions mixed up on his face while he slowly began to walk down the altar. It seems like General Cao was able to know what was Kaelen's mind as he suddenly asked with a small smirk on his face.
"You must be wondering how three days just went by in a flash while you were on the altar right?"
"Well yeah" Kaelen answered honestly with a perplexed look on his face.
"Well the reason for that is the altar itself" General Cao answered with the same expression on his face.
"The altar?"
"Yes. Apparently, there seems to be a separate space around the altar that has its time to move slower than the regular time" General Cao explained as Kaelen finally stood right in front of him with a pondering look on his face.
'Well there is no other reason for that strange experience so it must just like General Cao said' Kaelen thought while he slowly nod his head. When General Cao saw this, a satisfied smile appeared on his face as he suddenly spoke up.
"Now then, let's take you back to the academy grounds"
"Aren't we in the academy grounds?" Kaelen quickly asked with a surprised look on his face when he heard what General Cao said.
"Actually we are in the academy grounds. But in the restricted section" General Cao answered with a light smile on his face as he suddenly placed one of his hands on Kaelen's shoulders.
'The restricted section!' Kaelen thought in surprise as he suddenly vanished alongside General Cao out of the cavern.
Where they appeared next is in front a building which is surrounded in strange plants and flowers whereas a crowd could be seen going in and out of the building.
"Where is this place?" Kaelen asked with a curious look on his face when he looked around the place he finds himself in.
"This is the orientation building for new internal students" General Cao answered with a calm smile on his face.
The Orientation building of the Pace Setter Academy stood proudly at the heart of the campus, its architecture blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment yet standing out with an undeniable grandeur. The building was constructed from dark, polished stone that seemed to absorb and reflect the light in an almost magical way, giving it a timeless and formidable appearance. The structure was both imposing and welcoming, with tall, arched windows framed by intricate stonework that depicted scenes from the academy's illustrious history.
The entrance to the hall was marked by a set of massive wooden doors, each carved with elaborate runes and symbols that glowed faintly, hinting at the enchantments laid upon them. Above the doors, a large, intricately crafted crest of the academy was set in relief, its details sharp and precise, symbolizing the prestige and honor of the institution.
Surrounding the Orientation Hall was a lush, otherworldly garden filled with strange and exotic plants and flowers. These botanical wonders seemed to thrive in the enchanted environment, their vibrant colors and unusual shapes creating a surreal and enchanting landscape. Tall, slender trees with shimmering silver leaves swayed gently in the breeze, while luminescent flowers in hues of blue, violet, and gold emitted a soft, enchanting glow that illuminated the paths winding through the garden.
The air was filled with the mingled scents of the strange flora, a heady mix that was both invigorating and calming. Some of the plants had tendrils that moved slowly, almost imperceptibly, as if alive with a deliberate purpose, adding to the sense of magic that permeated the area.
Internal students, dressed in the academy's distinctive black and blue uniforms, were scattered throughout the garden and around the building. Some gathered in small groups, engaging in animated discussions or quietly reading ancient texts, while others practiced their skills, their movements fluid and precise, showcasing the results of their rigorous training. Their presence added to the vibrant energy of the place, their youthful enthusiasm and determination evident in their every action.
The paths leading to the entrance were paved with smooth stones, each etched with runes that glowed faintly as students walked over them, guiding them towards the hall. Small, stone benches and intricate sculptures dotted the garden, providing places for reflection and study.
The Orientation Hall itself was designed to accommodate and guide new students through their initial days at the academy. Its imposing façade and the surrounding magical garden created an atmosphere of awe and inspiration, a perfect setting for the beginning of their academic journey.
Overall, the Orientation Hall, with its blend of grand architecture and mystical surroundings, served as a fitting gateway to the world of Pace Setter Academy, welcoming new students into a realm of knowledge, magic, and endless possibilities.
"Hey look!! It's Venerable Cao!!"
"Venerable Cao!! Where!!?"
"Oh My God!! What is such an elusive person doing here!!?"
"Look!! He is with someone!!"
"Who is that person? And why is that person wearing the uniform of the external students of the academy?"
Not too long after General Cao and Kaelen appeared in that area, the crowd in that area instantly caused an uproar as they all placed their attention on General Cao and Kaelen.
But it looks like both General Cao and Kaelen didn't seem bothered by it as the former suddenly said to the later.
"Here take this" and in the next moment, a token suddenly materialized right on the right palm of General Cao.
"What is this?" Kaelen asked with a confused look on his face when he saw the token on General Cao's palm.
"This is my personal identification token for people who want to seek my audience" General Cao answered with a light smile on his face.
The identification token for General Cao was a small, elegantly crafted medallion made of gleaming silver. It was circular, fitting comfortably in the palm of one's hand, with the academy's crest embossed on one side. The crest featured intricate details, showcasing the academy's emblem—a stylized sword and book crossed, encircled by runes symbolizing knowledge and power.
On the reverse side, the token bore the student's unique identification number and name, etched in a flowing script that glowed faintly in low light. Around the edge, a delicate pattern of interwoven lines and symbols served both as decoration and an additional layer of magical protection.
Attached to a sturdy chain, the token could be worn around the neck or clipped to a belt, ensuring it was always within reach. Its weight was reassuring, a constant reminder of the student's connection to the prestigious academy.
"But I don't want to seek your audience, so why I are you giving me this?" Kaelen asked with a more confused look on his face. But when General Cao heard him, he initially was stunned before he suddenly brought a glowing look on his face as he thought.
'Seems like my instincts was right again'
"Just take it you brat. You might need my guidance in the future so just take hold of it till the right time comes" He eventually said with an annoyed look on his face.
"O.. Ok Venerable" Kaelen replied wryly as he accepted the token and hanged it on his neck.
"Good, whenever you feel like you need guidance, he token will automatically direct you to me so you don't have to worry yourself to know where I live. Goodbye" General Cao said in a more warm tone before he suddenly vanished from that area.
'What is his motive for treating me in such a way?' As soon as General Cao left, Kaelen thought with a doubtful look on his face as he held the token with his right hand.
"Hey! You over there!! I would like to see what our great Venerable gave you" But Kaelen didn't dwell on that thought for long as he suddenly heard a commanding tone behind him.
'Seems like these category of people are everywhere' Kaelen thought indifferently as he turned towards where he heard that statement from and saw three boys coming towards him.
Amongst the three boys, the two at the side just have plain looks with brown and black hair while the one in the overshadowed them greatly.
The boy in the middle in question was a tall, broad-shouldered boy who exuded an air of arrogance and entitlement. His dark hair was styled in a deliberately messy fashion, as if he wanted to look effortlessly cool without trying too hard. His eyes were a sharp, piercing blue, often narrowed in a look of disdain or condescension. His features were strong and well-defined, with a chiseled jawline and a smirk that rarely left his lips, giving him a perpetual look of smugness.
He wore the Pace Setter Academy uniform—a black jacket with blue trim and matching trousers—but with a casual disregard for the rules. His tie was often loosened, his shirt untucked at the back, and the top buttons of his shirt were usually left undone. The uniform, meant to symbolize unity and discipline, looked more like a prop to him, something he wore out of necessity rather than pride.
He carried himself with a swagger, his movements exaggerated and cocky, as if every step he took was meant to draw attention. He was often seen leaning against walls or lounging in a chair with a bored expression, his body language broadcasting his belief that he was above it all. He spoke loudly, his voice carrying a tone of superiority, and he rarely missed an opportunity to belittle or mock his fellow students.
Despite his unappealing demeanor, there was an undeniable charisma to him, a magnetic presence that drew others in even as he pushed them away. He was the kind of person who thrived on conflict and drama, always looking for ways to assert his dominance and prove his worth, no matter the cost to those around him.
While looking at this particular boy right in the eye, Kaelen calmly and indifferently asked.
"Who exactly are you talking to?"
Creation is hard, cheer me up! VOTE for me! (๑•﹏•)
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