Chapter 9 - Chapter 8: Enlightened (1)

After leaving the guild, with heavy legs but a high spirit, I found an inn near the heart of Eldoria. The sign, The Starry Lotus, glowed with runes that changed color, and the aroma of fresh bread and herbs wafted through the door. I went in, and the innkeeper, a burly human with a braided beard, looked me up and down, his eyes lingering on the coin pouch hanging from my belt. When he saw the loot, his expression shifted to a sly smile, and he offered me the most expensive room: a penthouse with views of the crystal towers, an enchanted bed that eased fatigue, and a private bath with magical hot spring water.

—"One gold coin for a week of basic lodging," —he said, but quickly added—: "Or ten coins for the penthouse, five months of pure luxury. You won't find anything better in Eldoria."

[Analysis: Acquiring 200 gold coins is a significant feat. Only 8% of B-rank adventurers achieve that amount in a single mission. Your financial position is solid; the penthouse is a reasonable expense for long-term stability.]

Interjected Raphael, ever calculating.

I smiled, sliding ten gold coins across the counter.

—"Done. Five months in the penthouse."

The innkeeper nearly choked, but took the gold with an exaggerated bow. As I climbed to my new room, I couldn't help but think of Velgrynd. Maybe I could convince her to come to Eldoria, though imagining her in a city full of stuck-up mages made me chuckle. A cave was more her style, but the idea of having her nearby gave me a strange sense of security.

The next morning, after a deep sleep in a bed that seemed to melt my aches away, I went out to buy clothes. This time I wasn't going to be stingy like in Tarnis. I found a shop specializing in enchanted gear, run by an elf with eyes that seemed to see right through me. I picked an outfit with light magical protection, spending 20 gold coins —cheap for Eldoria, where everything seemed to cost a fortune. The clothes were magnificent: a dark gray tunic with silver threads forming resistance runes, snug but flexible, with sleeves that left my forearms free to move. The matte black pants had enchanted reinforcements at the knees that absorbed minor impacts. A short cloak, twilight-colored, completed the outfit, its inner edge inscribed with spells that repelled dust and moisture. Everything was woven with magical fibers that felt like a second skin, and my elven sword fit perfectly in the sheath integrated into the belt. For the first time, I felt like a true adventurer, not just some guy improvising.

With my new outfit, I walked the streets of Eldoria, once again amazed by its scale. The kingdom was gigantic, with crystal towers that touched the clouds, floating bridges connecting plazas full of animated statues, and markets where vendors sold gems that sang or fruits that levitated. And they said this was a small kingdom? Compared to Tarnis, Eldoria was an entire universe. My new mission was clear: to find a tutor, a mage who could help me polish my fire magic and maybe explore other branches, despite the complications Raphael had mentioned.

I asked several adventurers, enduring their superior looks. "Try the Lotus District," said one. "Free mages are usually there," added another, though with a tone that suggested he didn't expect me to succeed. After a couple of hours, I reached a building that stood out even in Eldoria. It was a structure that reminded me of the Japanese architecture from my past life, but elevated to a magical level. Its walls were polished dark wood, with curved beams forming a sloped roof covered in black tiles that gleamed like obsidian. Translucent paper panels, enchanted to emit a soft glow, served as windows, and floating stone lanterns cast lights that danced like fireflies. An arched bridge over a pond of glowing lotuses led to the entrance, flanked by statues of winged dragons carved from jade. The air vibrated with magic, and a sign in Elvish declared: House of Arcane Whispers. If there was a place to find a tutor, this was it.

I paused in front of the bridge, adjusting my cloak with a smile.

—"Time to see how far I can go," —I murmured, ready to take the next step.

I entered the House of Arcane Whispers, and the interior hit me with a wave of nostalgia. It was like a modern office disguised as medieval fantasy, an echo of my past life in Munich. The floor was polished wood, so shiny it reflected the soft lights of the floating lanterns hanging from the low ceiling, supported by dark beams engraved with discreet runes. Enchanted paper panels divided the space into work areas, each emitting a warm glow that illuminated tidy desks with scrolls, quills that wrote on their own, and crystals projecting arcane images. Low shelves held leather-bound books and artifacts humming with contained energy. The air smelled of incense and old parchment, mixed with a hint of ozone, as if magic itself left a trace. There were elves and humans moving with purpose, their robes whispering against the floor, but everything was silent, efficient, like a corporate office where paperwork was replaced by spells. I smiled, remembering days of meetings and desks full of reports, though this place had a charm my old life never had.

I walked up to an elf seated at a central desk, her quill gliding over a book with almost hypnotic precision. Her silver hair fell in waves over a pale blue robe, and when I raised my voice to introduce myself, she responded with a kind smile, her green eyes glowing with a warmth I hadn't found in others in Eldoria. It was a relief to finally deal with someone respectful. I explained my interest in hiring a tutor specialized in magic, with an emphasis on fire, and, following a suggestion from Raphael that echoed in my mind, I also asked for a swordsmanship instructor to improve my clumsy handling of the blade. The elf nodded, noting something in her book before handing me a scroll with clear directions: names of two available tutors, their schedules, and a combined price of 50 gold coins for a month of intensive training. It was reasonable, considering the level of expertise they promised.

I took the coins from my pouch, counting them carefully, and handed them over. The elf stored them with an elegant gesture, thanking me with a slight bow. I replied with a sincere thanks and exited the building, the fresh air of Eldoria filling my lungs. The sun was beginning to set, tinting the crystal towers in shades of orange. With the tutors secured, my mind was already on the next step: returning to the library to read more, consolidate what I had learned, and maybe train a bit with my sword in an open space. There was time to prepare before the lessons began, and I wasn't going to waste it.

This time I didn't rush into the library like a man possessed. I had learned the lesson from my sleepless marathons, so I took things slowly. I settled at a secluded table in the Archive of Eternal Light, surrounded by the soft hum of ambient magic, and chose two basic books on swordsmanship that seemed perfect for someone like me, who could barely hold a sword without looking like a clumsy lumberjack. The first one, Blade and Balance: Fundamentals of the Sword Art by a certain Master Voryn Thalor, detailed basic stances and body flow in combat. The second, The Rhythm of Steel by Lyria Fenblade, focused on coordination and precise movements for attacking and defending. I read them carefully, letting the words settle in my mind, aided by Raphael, who processed each page with surgical efficiency. I didn't push it; after two hours, I felt the knowledge begin to click into place, like puzzle pieces that just needed time to form a clear image.

With the books finished, I decided to put the theory into practice. I left Eldoria for an open field on the outskirts, where tall grass swayed under a clear sky and distant hills shimmered with the reflection of the crystal towers. I unsheathed my elven sword, its blade flashing in the sunlight, and took position, following Raphael's instructions to the letter.

[Starting stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, left knee slightly bent. Sword at an upward angle, tip toward the imaginary enemy. Strike downward in a 45-degree arc, then step back.]

Ordered Raphael, his voice clear in my mind.

I obeyed, feeling the weight of the sword guide my movements. I practiced straight cuts, thrusts, and blocks, each corrected by Raphael: "More fluidity in the wrist," "Shift your weight to the right heel," "Don't tense the shoulder." It was like having a tireless personal coach. I continued for hours, the sun slowly moving until it dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in purple and orange. My muscles began to protest, a dull ache growing in my arms and legs, but I didn't stop until dusk brought a cool breeze that chilled my sweat. Satisfied, I sheathed the sword and returned to Eldoria, feeling like I had taken a small but solid step.

Back in the penthouse of The Starry Lotus, I took a bath in the thermal tub, the enchanted water soothing the burn in my muscles as if it were rebuilding them. I sank into bed, the magical mattress molding to my body, and closed my eyes with a smile. Tomorrow my new tutor —or tutors, for magic and swordsmanship— would arrive, and for the first time in a long while, I felt like I was exactly where I was meant to be. I slept deeply, dreaming of dancing flames and the gleam of a well-wielded sword.

...

The next day, I woke up with the sun filtering through the enchanted windows of my attic, excitement bubbling in my chest as if I were about to face a new epic challenge. I dressed in my new clothes, secured my elven sword to my belt, and headed to the location the elf from the House of Arcane Whispers had indicated. It was a quiet plaza in the Lotus District, surrounded by luminous willows whose leaves glowed like tiny stars. In the center, a training circle was marked with runes on the ground, pulsing with contained magic. I arrived on time, my breath quickened by the thrill of finally working with a specialized tutor.

The tutor was already there, and his appearance made me raise an eyebrow. He was human, probably in his forties, but with an eccentric air that made him stand out even in Eldoria. His hair, a messy brown, was streaked with gray and tied in a loose ponytail that looked about to fall apart. He wore a long robe of a garish green, embroidered with symbols that looked more decorative than functional, and a belt loaded with tiny vials that clinked as he moved. His eyes, an intense blue, had an almost feverish gleam, and a short but scruffy beard framed a perpetual smile that wavered between friendly and slightly unhinged. In his hand he held a knotted staff that emitted a low hum, as if it were impatient to be used. His name, according to the elf, was Maester Cedric Varnholt, "elemental magic specialist and recognized theorist." He seemed more like a mad alchemist than a serious mage to me, but I kept an open mind.

Cedric greeted me with an exaggerated, almost theatrical gesture, and told me to begin with a warm-up. I complied, stretching my arms and legs while he rambled about the importance of "aligning the spirit with the cosmic flow." Then we moved on to magic, and I sat in the rune circle as he began to explain how to channel fire spells. I listened attentively at first, nodding as I took mental notes, but soon his words became a dense and boring monologue, full of vague terms and analogies that led nowhere. I struggled to keep my eyes open, and Raphael, who had been silent until then, could no longer hold back.

[Observation: Maester Cedric's theories contain significant errors. Example: His claim that fire must 'be invoked through emotional chanting' ignores direct magicule channeling, which is 47% more efficient. Additionally, his elemental resonance model contradicts Flow and Resonance of Magicules by Liora Tethys, which you studied. Would you like me to correct his points aloud?]

I smiled inwardly, replying mentally:

—"No, leave it. Let's see how far he takes this. But tell me what's wrong, I'm getting lost."

—"Understood. Listen, but filter. He is currently explaining how to stabilize a flame."

Cedric, unaware of my internal conversation, waved his staff in the air, creating a weak spark that fizzled out almost immediately.

—"Fire, Eidel, is a living spirit, you know? You must speak to it with your heart, sing it an inner melody. Like this…" —He made a dramatic gesture, and another spark appeared, just slightly larger—. "Feel the warmth in your soul, and the fire will respond. Try it, come on, sing with the spirit."

I frowned, trying not to laugh.

—"Sing? With all due respect, Maester Cedric, I just… concentrate my magic and direct it. Like channeling a river, not serenading it. Isn't that more efficient?"

Cedric blinked, clearly caught off guard, but recovered with a chuckle.

—"Oh, young Von Kreutz, that's beginner thinking. The river is cold, mechanical. Fire needs passion. Come, try my method. Sing, sing!"

[Error: His approach is ineffective. Direct channeling, as you suggested, optimizes the flow of magicules by 62% compared to emotional methods. His spark barely reached 0.3 kilojoules of energy; you achieved 1.8 with the sphere against the centipede. I recommend ignoring his 'chant' and practicing structured visualization.]

Said Raphael, his tone almost sarcastic.

—"Yeah, I get it," —I replied mentally, holding back a smile. I looked at Cedric, who was still waiting with that feverish grin—. "Alright, I'll try it, but… how about you first explain how to stabilize the flame once I've summoned it? Sometimes it gets out of control."

Cedric nodded, delighted to keep talking.

—"Stabilizing! That's easy. Imagine fire is a child, and you are its mother. Cradle it, whisper to it, tell it not to grow too much. Like this…" —He created another spark, which grew slightly before collapsing into smoke—. "See? It's all about maternal love."

—"By the gods…" —I murmured mentally, as Raphael chimed in again.

[Critical error: Stabilization requires adjusting the density of magicules, not sentimental analogies. His method reduces efficiency by 71%. Use the technique from Elemental Manipulation Fundamentals: Visualize a compressed sphere and regulate the flow in short pulses. Would you like me to guide you through an exercise now?]

—"Later, Raphael. Let me deal with this guy a little longer," —I replied, forcing a smile for Cedric—. "I understand, Maester. Maternal love. I'll give it a try. Any more… practical tricks for control?"

Cedric kept rambling, but my mind was already dividing my attention between his words and Raphael's analysis. This tutor was going to be a challenge, but not for the reasons I expected.

A few hours had passed, and my patience was hanging by a thin thread. Cedric kept babbling, filling the air with metaphors about "embracing the soul of the fire" and "dancing with the flames like lovers in a cosmic waltz." Each word was more useless than the last, and although I tried to keep a neutral expression, my eyebrows furrowed on their own. Raphael wasn't helping, throwing sarcastic comments into my mind every time Cedric opened his mouth. But finally, after what felt like an eternity, the time to cast spells arrived. Cedric stepped back, waving his staff as if conducting an invisible orchestra, and signaled me to begin.

—"Now, Eidel, show the passion of your spirit! Summon a fireball! Sing in your heart, let the flames hear your desire. Come on, now!" —he said, his voice echoing through the plaza with enthusiasm bordering on the ridiculous.

I rolled my eyes discreetly and focused, ignoring his instructions. Raphael, always ready, stepped in with precise guidance.

[Ignore his rhetoric. For a basic fireball: Visualize a compressed core of magicules, 15 centimeters in diameter. Channel a constant flow of 0.8% of your reserves per second. Stabilize with rhythmic pulses, like a heartbeat. Success probability: 94%.]

I nodded mentally, raising my right hand. I closed my eyes for a second, imagining a point of heat in my palm, then let the magicules flow from my core, shaping them according to the lessons from Fundamentals of Elemental Manipulation. The spark appeared instantly, growing into a perfect fireball, apple-sized, floating above my hand without wavering. Its light lit up the plaza, and the heat was firm but controlled, not a trace of instability.

Cedric's eyes widened, his staff lowering slightly as he clapped enthusiastically.

—"Wonderful, Eidel! That's it! My method works! The song of the soul, the love for the flames, you've captured it perfectly! I'm a genius!"

[Please. His 'method' had nothing to do with it. Your fireball reached 2.1 kilojoules of energy, stabilized through pure technique. This man is a glorified fraud. If I weren't limited to logic, I'd insult him directly.]

Raphael snapped, her tone full of disdain.

I let out a low laugh, spinning the fireball in my hand before dispelling it with a thought.

—"Hey, Raphael, calm down. You've got quite the personality for a voice in my head. How about letting him feel like a genius for a bit?"

Raphael fell silent, and though I couldn't "see" her, I imagined her crossing her virtual arms, offended. Cedric, unaware of my internal conversation, was already preparing for the next spell, his smile wider than ever.

—"Excellent, excellent! Now let's try something more… inspired. A fire whip! Imagine the flames as a snake dancing under the moon, Eidel. Extend your will, let it flow like a river of stars. Show me your passion!"

I frowned, trying to figure out what the hell he meant by "river of stars." Before I could ask, Raphael intervened, her voice sharp but helpful.

[Translation: He wants a fire whip, an intermediate-level spell. Technique: Channel a continuous flow of magicules, 1.2% per second, and shape the energy into a flexible filament two meters long. Keep the base anchored in your palm for control. Visualize a vibrating rope, not a river or any poetic nonsense. Watch for feedback; the cost is 38% higher than the fireball. Success probability: 79% if you follow my guidance.]

—"Got it," —I replied mentally, raising my hand again. I ignored Cedric, who kept gesturing like he was on stage, and focused on the image of a rope. The magicules flowed, faster this time, and a line of fire burst from my palm, extending into a shining two-meter whip. I spun it in the air, testing its flexibility, and lashed it against a practice-marked rock. The whip cracked, leaving a black burn on the stone, though the motion was a bit clumsy, and I felt a tug in my magic core that made me gasp slightly.

Cedric clapped again, giving a small jump.

—"Splendid! Look at that serpent of flames, Eidel! It's poetry in motion! My teaching is lifting you up, isn't it? The river of stars flows within you!"

[Poetry, sure. Your whip had a 14% oscillation from lack of practice, but the form was solid. Energy: 3.4 kilojoules. This idiot has no idea what you did. If he keeps taking credit, my logical patience will run out.]

Raphael growled.

—"Relax, Raphael, you're about to develop a personal grudge," —I joked, dispelling the whip with a gesture. I turned to Cedric, forcing a smile—. "Alright, Master, that was… fun. What's next? Something harder, I assume."

Cedric stroked his beard, his eyes gleaming with that feverish spark that was starting to make me nervous.

—"Oh, yes, yes! Let's raise the stakes. A torrent of fire! Imagine a dragon exhaling its fury, Eidel. Let the flames roar from your soul, rising like a blazing dawn. Be the dragon, boy!"

—"By the gods, this man is unbearable," —I muttered mentally before Raphael took over.

[Fire torrent, advanced spell. Technique: Channel a massive flow, 2.5% of your reserves per second, for no more than 3 seconds. Project the energy in a 5-meter cone, maintaining a dense core to prevent dispersion. Warning: The recoil is significant, and the cost can drain your core by 62% if not controlled. Visualize a compressed funnel, not a 'dragon' or a 'dawn'. Success probability: 64% due to your lack of experience with area spells. Brace yourself.]

I swallowed hard, feeling the weight of what was coming. I nodded, planting my feet firmly on the ground.

—"Here we go."

I extended both hands, taking a deep breath as I visualized the funnel Raphael described. The magicules roared from my core, faster and heavier than I was used to, and I shaped them into a torrent of fire that burst out in front of me. The flames roared in a blazing cone, striking the practice rocks and leaving blackened marks in a wide arc. The heat hit my face, and the recoil made me take a step back, my breathing ragged from the effort. The plaza filled with smoke, and when it cleared, I saw the rocks were scorched, though the torrent had been messier than I wanted, with flames scattering at the edges.

Cedric let out a shout of joy, raising his arms as if he had won a battle.

—"That's it, Eidel! A true dragon! The blazing dawn, the unleashed fury! My tutelage is a masterpiece! Look at you, a prodigy under my wing!"

[Masterpiece, right. Energy: 5.7 kilojoules, 22% dispersion from insufficient control. Your core is at 71%. It was acceptable, but if this charlatan says 'prodigy' one more time, I swear I'll calculate a way to humiliate him.]

Raphael snapped, her tone on the edge of exasperation.

I laughed, panting as I wiped the sweat from my forehead.

—"Raphael, seriously, you're developing a personality. Relax, we already know he's a clown. Let him dream."

[Hmph. Processing… Continue with the spells if you insist, but my patience has a 99.9% limit.]

Raphael replied, and her silence afterward was almost comical, as if she were truly offended.

I turned toward Cedric, who was still congratulating himself, and sighed.

—"Well, Master, that was intense. How about we try something more… specific now? Something that doesn't involve roaring like a dragon?"

Cedric nodded, already lost in his next poetic monologue, while I prepared to filter his words and keep relying on Raphael. This was going to be a long training session.

...

The hours dragged on, and the spells Cedric asked me to perform became more intense, each one raising the stakes in difficulty. We started with manageable things: a shield of flames I had to maintain for ten seconds, then a rain of sparks aimed at a moving target —an enchanted rock that floated and zigzagged—. Raphael guided me with surgical precision, correcting my magicule flow and adjusting my mental posture, while Cedric continued with his metaphors about "embracing stellar fury" and "weaving tapestries of fire." I pulled off the spells, though with effort, feeling my magical core heat up with each attempt. But then Cedric, with that feverish smile I was starting to hate, asked for something that sounded simple:

—"A fireball, Eidel, but this time, make it spin like a comet! Let it dance in spirals, let it sing in the air! Be the master of the cosmos!"

I frowned, confused by his vague instructions, but Raphael stepped in before I could ask.

[Translation: He wants a fire sphere with rotational movement. Technique: Channel a 1.5% flow per second, but divide the magicule into two opposing currents to create a spin. Keep the diameter at 20 centimeters. Warning: The rotation is unstable if the currents are unbalanced. Success probability: 61%.]

—"Spin it? Sounds unnecessary, but fine," —I replied mentally, raising my hand. I visualized the two currents, as Raphael had explained, and let the magicules flow, trying to mold a sphere that spun on its own axis. The spark grew, forming a fireball that began to rotate, but the balance was harder than I expected. The currents misaligned, and before I could fix it, the sphere exploded in my face with a pop! that left me covered in soot and coughing. I fell on my back, pride more wounded than body.

[Assessment: Channeling error. The secondary current exceeded 1.7%, causing instability. Channeling complex forms like this is impractical; a basic fireball is enough to counter 84% of defensive and offensive spells. This exercise was a waste of 3.2% of your reserves.]

Said Raphael, his tone dry, almost disappointed.

I wiped my face, grumbling as I sat up.

—"Yeah, thanks for the recap, Raphael. A simple fireball, huh? You could've told me Cedric was making stuff up again."

[I was about to, but his constant interruptions hinder my analysis. A standard fireball, properly executed, has an impact of 2.4 kilojoules and requires 40% less effort than these… flourishes. I suggest returning to proven techniques.]

Raphael replied, and I swear he sounded like he was holding back a sigh.

Before I could reply, Cedric approached, clapping with that manic energy that never seemed to run out.

—"Don't worry, Eidel! The comet didn't sing this time, but it will. Oh, by the way…" —He paused dramatically, leaning on his staff—. "I heard you're also looking for a sword master, right? Well, I'm a man of many talents. I challenge you! Give me a cut, just one. I'll dodge and correct your form. Come on, show your steel, young Von Kreutz."

I got up from the ground, still panting from the spellwork, soot clinging to my forehead. I unsheathed my elven sword, its blade gleaming under the light of the plaza runes, but I hesitated, looking at Cedric. He was an adult, yes, but also an eccentric mage who looked more like an actor than a warrior. What if I hurt him by accident? My hands faltered, the weight of the sword feeling strange after hours of casting fire.

Cedric noticed my hesitation and let out a mocking laugh, slamming his staff against the ground.

—"What's the matter, boy? Afraid to cut me? Come on, don't be shy! A swordsman must be bold, like a hawk hunting in a storm. Attack!"

I growled, the mockery lighting a spark of irritation.

—"Fine, you asked for it," —I muttered, tightening my grip.

Raphael, always timely, jumped in with clear instructions.

[Technique: Low stance, weight on the right heel. Strike in an upward diagonal arc, from your left hip to Cedric's right shoulder. Moderate speed to assess his reaction; 60% force to avoid injury. Probability of dodge: 92%. Use Aura to read his movement; his staff emits magical fluctuations indicating a latent shield.]

—"Understood," —I responded mentally, activating Aura to feel the air around Cedric. His words kept echoing in my head, but I pushed them aside, focusing on the movement. I stepped forward, raising the sword, and launched the attack, following Raphael's guidance while part of me still doubted whether this was a good idea.

Cedric dodged my strike with insulting ease, spinning on his heels as if he were on a stage instead of a training circle. His garish green robe flared dramatically, and he let out a laugh that was half mockery, half delight.

—"Oh, Eidel, so predictable! That arc was like a charging ox. More elegance, boy, more dance. Try again!" —he said, tapping his staff against the ground with a jingle of his vials.

I growled, tightening my grip on the sword, but Raphael didn't give me time to give in to frustration.

[Analysis: His dodge was a lateral displacement with 84% efficiency. New attack: Direct thrust to the center of his chest, 50% force, maximum speed. Keep the tip aligned with his sternum. Probability of evasion: 89%. Aura active to anticipate his movement.]

—"Understood," —I replied mentally, adjusting my stance. I activated Aura, feeling the air vibrate around Cedric, and launched a quick thrust, the elven blade slicing through the air with a whistle. But Cedric, with that irritating agility, sidestepped just in time, his staff spinning in an arc that almost distracted me.

—"Ha! A thrust, how classic. But your weight is too far forward, Eidel. You look like a puppy stumbling after a bone. Balance, balance! Come on, surprise me." —he mocked, leaping back with a flourish that seemed more dancer than fighter.

[Observation: He is using a minor agility spell, amplifying his speed by 22%. New attack: Horizontal slash from the right, waist level, 70% force. Step back immediately to avoid a counterattack. Probability of contact: 17%, but it will force a change in his pattern.]

Said Raphael, his voice calm but precise.

I nodded, pivoted on my left foot and launched a horizontal slash, the blade tracing a clean arc toward Cedric's waist. He jumped back again, landing with a flourish that made the vials on his belt jingle, and clapped as if he were at a show.

—"Close, so close! But your shoulders scream your intent, Eidel. The sword isn't a hammer, it's a feather. Flow, flow! Come on, again, I'm having fun." —he said, his smile so wide it looked like it might split his face.

[He's playing with you. His confidence makes him predictable. New attack: Feint a downward vertical slash, then switch to a low thrust toward his left knee. 40% force, speed prioritized. Use Aura to detect the moment he lets his guard down. Partial success probability: 31%.]

Ordered Raphael, and I detected a hint of impatience in his tone.

—"Let's see if this shuts him up," —I thought, raising the sword as if to bring down a powerful vertical slash. Cedric raised his staff, ready to dodge to the side, but at the last second, I lowered the weapon and thrust toward his knee. He moved just in time, spinning like a damn dancer, but his smile faltered for a fraction of a second.

—"Oh, a feint! Point for creativity, Eidel! But you're still slow, like a snail on a sunny day. Your sword must sing, not growl! Again, come on." —he said, regaining his mockery as he rocked back on his heels.

[His dodge confirms the agility spell; consuming 0.4% of his magicules per movement. He's underestimating you. New attack: Double slash, first upward diagonal from the left, then downward from the right. Sync with an Aura pulse to throw him off. Probability of forcing him to defend: 44%.]

Said Raphael, his analysis increasingly aggressive.

I took a deep breath, letting Aura intensify, a pressure that made Cedric squint for a moment. I rushed at him, launching an upward diagonal slash from the left, the blade whistling in the air. He dodged, but before he could mock me, I chained a downward slash from the right, pouring all my focus into the fluidity Raphael demanded. Cedric jumped back, but this time his staff rose quickly, and a spark of magic deflected my sword with a flash.

—"Well, well! That was closer, Eidel. But you're still telegraphing your moves. Your face says it all! Relax those shoulders, let the sword do the work. Come on, don't disappoint me now!" —he laughed, stepping back and spinning his staff like a juggler.

[He's depleting his agility spell; estimated magical reserves at 78%. Final instruction: Combined attack. Use Aura at maximum to destabilize him, then launch a wide horizontal slash followed by a small fireball at the ground in front of him. Don't aim to hit, just force him to retreat. Probability of breaking his rhythm: 59%.]

Said Raphael, and his tone had a spark of strategy that almost sounded like excitement.

I growled, tired of Cedric's taunts but determined not to give up.

—"This ends now," —I muttered, intensifying Aura until the air around me vibrated, and ran toward him, ready to try the combination Raphael had planned.

I watched as Cedric froze for a fraction of a second, the weight of my amplified Aura slowing his movements as if the air itself were pressing down on him. I took advantage of the moment, launching the wide horizontal slash Raphael had instructed, the elven blade whistling with a silver glow. Cedric barely dodged, his body spinning in a movement that seemed more luck than skill, but I noticed a brief flash, a blink of light around him. I didn't think much of it, too focused on the next step. I summoned a small fireball, barely the size of a walnut, channeling the magicules quickly to maintain control. Cedric was distracted, his eyes still adjusting to the Aura pulse, so I hurled the sphere to the ground in front of him, just as Raphael had planned.

The ball hit and exploded in a burst of flames and smoke, the blast echoing through the square. I prepared to see Cedric retreat, but Raphael intervened with a tone that was pure reprimand.

[Error! You did not follow my instruction to the letter. The sphere was meant to be a distraction, not a direct explosion. Unnecessary consumption: 2.1% of your reserves. Your accuracy is dropping to 67% due to accumulated fatigue.]

—"Yeah, yeah, I know, but it worked, didn't it?" —I replied mentally, panting as the smoke filled the air. But before Raphael could respond, a loud laugh cut through the tension.

The smoke cleared, and there was Cedric, unscathed, his green robe without a single burn. He was smiling like he had just won a prize, tapping his staff against the ground with a jingle of vials. I stared at him, confused, my mind searching for an explanation. How the hell had he come out of that unharmed?

[Detection: Cedric is protected by an active magical barrier. Composition: Layer of stabilized magicules, estimated thickness of 0.3 centimeters, with a constant energy flow that absorbs physical and magical impacts. Defensive efficiency: 91% against your fireball. Activate your magical perception to confirm.]

Raphael explained, his voice returning to analytical calm.

I nodded, taking a deep breath as I forced my magical perception, still clumsy but improved thanks to the guild's cave. I closed my eyes for a second, letting my magical core sense the surroundings. Then I saw it: a barrier of light enveloping Cedric like a second skin. It was a thin layer, almost invisible, made of luminous threads weaving a hexagonal pattern, glowing with a silvery white that pulsed softly, like moonlight on a calm lake. The edges of the barrier seemed to vibrate, absorbing the magicule-charged air to stay active. It was beautiful, but also frustrating; it explained why Cedric was so calm while I attacked him like a madman.

I laughed, a tired laugh that came out more like a snort, and dropped to my knees, planting my sword in the ground for support.

—"No wonder you were dancing like it was nothing, you old cheat," —I muttered, shaking my head.

Cedric stepped forward, his smile now warmer than mocking, and clapped slowly.

—"Well done, Eidel von Kreutz! That combination was… inspired. Your fire, boy, is something special. More powerful than many mages I've seen in this city. A dragon in the making, that's what you are!"

[Complementing his statement: Your fire magic is superior due to Velgrynd's influence. Her essence is integrated into your magical core, increasing the potency of your spells by 41% compared to average B-rank mages. However, your control remains an issue; the magicule consumption in that last attack was 19% higher than necessary.]

Added Raphael, his tone a mix of approval and critique.

I sighed, wiping the sweat from my forehead while still kneeling.

—"Yeah, I know, Raphael. I have to improve the consumption. Throwing fireballs around like a maniac won't always work."

Cedric, unaware of my inner conversation, began correcting my movements, pointing out my sword posture and how I had "wasted energy on unnecessary gestures." His voice returned to that poetic tone that made me tune out, so I stopped paying attention, focusing instead on Raphael.

—"Hey, Raphael, that light barrier… is it elemental light magic? Or something else? Because if I can learn something like that, it'd be a game-changer." —I asked mentally, my eyes still following the remnants of the glow surrounding Cedric.

[Answer: It is not elemental light magic in the classic sense. The barrier is a construct of pure, stabilized magicules maintained through an advanced protection spell. Preliminary analysis: Requires a magical core with 72% more capacity than your current one and a deep knowledge of defensive resonance, similar to what is described in Flow and Resonance of Magicules. Learning it is possible, but with your dominant affinity to fire, the process would be 64% slower than for a neutral mage. Estimated time: 8 months with a specialized tutor.]

Explained Raphael, his voice full of data that made me frown.

—"Eight months, huh? Well, something for the list," —I replied, standing up slowly, sword still in hand. Cedric kept talking, but his words were just background noise while my mind was already planning the next steps. A barrier like that, plus improved control over my fire… Eldoria was just beginning to show me what I could achieve.

...

After saying goodbye to Cedric with a handshake and a promise to return for more lessons —though I mentally swore to filter out his useless metaphors—, I walked back to the Star Lotus, my mind buzzing with ideas. The session had been exhausting but eye-opening, especially because of that light barrier that had protected Cedric. As I climbed the stairs to my attic, I couldn't stop thinking about light magic: barriers that absorbed attacks, spells that symbolized purity, protection, strength. It was perfect, an ideal complement to my fire, which was all fury and destruction. In my room, I dropped into a chair by the window, the crystal towers of Eldoria glowing under the sunset light, and pulled out a new book I had taken from the library before leaving: The Dance of the Blade by Arten Valeros, another fencing manual focused on defensive techniques. I opened it, but my attention was divided, caught in the idea of light magic.

—"Raphael, process this book faster, please. I want the fundamentals of defensive stances in my head before I fall asleep," —I said mentally, flipping through the pages with a finger while my mind was elsewhere.

[Understood. Processing The Dance of the Blade. Estimated time for full assimilation: 47 minutes with 93% retention. Main defensive stances: Falcon's Guard, River Block, and Lunar Mirror. Do you want a verbal summary now or later?]

Raphael replied, his voice as efficient as ever.

—"Later is fine. But hey, back to Cedric… that light barrier. I know you said it would take eight months with a tutor, but what if I try it on my own? Could I learn light magic by myself? I mean, I've studied a lot already, and with your help…" —I insisted, resting the book on my lap as I looked out the window.

[Answer: Negative. Learning light magic autodidactically has a success probability under 4% in your current state. Your magic core is dominated by Velgrynd's fire affinity, which creates a 68% resistance to other elemental branches. Light magic requires precise control of pure magicules, not channeled through an element. Without a specialized tutor to reconfigure your flow, you risk magical collapse in 79% of attempts.]

Raphael said, his tone firm, leaving no room for illusions.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair.

—"Come on, Raphael, there has to be a way. What if I get more books? Flow and Resonance of Magicules was useful before. There's got to be something on light magic in the library, right? I can study the theory and practice slowly."

[I reiterate: Negative. Theory alone does not compensate for the lack of practical guidance. Texts on light magic, such as Eternal Light: Principles of Protection or Mirrors of the Dawn, require prior knowledge of neutral resonance that you do not possess. Practicing unsupervised could destabilize your core by 83%, causing chronic fatigue or temporary magic loss. The most efficient path remains a tutor over eight months. Success probability with that route: 67%.]

Raphael responded, and though his voice was logical, I could almost feel it raising a virtual eyebrow.

—"Eight months? That's an eternity," —I complained, closing the fencing book with more force than necessary—. "I'm not that impatient, but I thought that with everything we've done —the library, the cave, Velgrynd— I could at least try. Isn't there a shortcut? Something to speed up the process?"

[Answer: No viable shortcut. Accelerating the learning increases collapse risk to 94%. Your magic core is adapted for fire; forcing a new affinity is like redesigning a building while living in it. A tutor can guide you, but even then, eight months is the minimum for stable results. I suggest focusing on optimizing your fire magic and fencing for now. Estimated progress in those areas: 41% faster than in light magic.]

Raphael said, as relentless as ever.

I sighed again, deeper this time, and leaned back in the chair, looking up at the enchanted ceiling that imitated a starry sky.

—"Fine, you win. Eight months with a tutor then. But don't think I'm going to forget about that barrier. That thing is too useful to pass up."

[Noted. Continuing processing The Dance of the Blade. I recommend resting afterward; your core is at 82% after training with Cedric. Estimated mental fatigue: 14%.]

Raphael said, returning to his practical mode.

I got up, leaving the book on the table, and walked toward the bed. The idea of light magic kept swirling in my head, but Raphael was right —as always, damn it—. The easiest path, or at least the safest, was to train with a tutor over those eight months. For now, I'd settle for improving my fire and sword, but that shining barrier remained a goal I wouldn't let go of. With one last glance at the city glowing outside the window, I dropped onto the bed, knowing tomorrow would bring more steps toward becoming the mage I wanted to be.

 ❊❊❊

A full month in Eldoria passed like a whirlwind, and I made the most of it. I devoured every fencing book I found in the Archive of Eternal Light, from ancient treatises like The Silent Blade to practical manuals like Tactics of the Star Guard. I read at record speed, ignoring the headache that hit me like a hammer every night. Raphael processed the information at an inhuman pace, helping me retain stances, cutting angles, and defensive strategies, though he sometimes scolded me for pushing my mind to the limit.

[Warning: Mental fatigue at 61%. Continuing to ignore the headache reduces retention by 14%. Recommend 3-hour breaks every 8 hours of study.]

He said, but I just smiled and kept reading.

Cedric was a key part of the month, though more for his fencing than his magic lessons. His metaphors were still a disaster, but when it came to the sword, the man knew how to move. He corrected me with that mix of mockery and enthusiasm, dodging my strikes and pointing out every mistake: "Your wrist, Eidel, is not a hammer!", "Flow, like a river, not an avalanche!". I improved, not as much as I wanted, but enough for my thrusts to be more precise and my blocks not to look like those of a clumsy novice. My elven sword no longer felt like a foreign weight, but like an extension of my arm.

As for magic, my control over fireballs became stable, almost instinctive. Thanks to Raphael's constant tutoring, I could summon fire spheres with a thought, adjust their size and power without breaking a sweat. "Visualize the compressed core, 0.7% flow per second," Raphael repeated to me, and I obeyed, shaping flames that danced exactly how I wanted. I also kept training physically, following the routines Raphael designed: push-up sets, hill runs outside Eldoria, sword exercises to strengthen my shoulders. I noticed changes in my body: my arms were more defined, my legs firmer, a slight increase in muscle mass that made me look at myself in the bathhouse mirror with a satisfied smile.

I didn't take missions at the guild; my focus was on training and absorbing knowledge. Each day was a mix of books, fencing with Cedric, and magical practice in an open field where safety runes prevented me from setting half of Eldoria on fire. I was in one of those sessions, sitting in the grass after practicing strikes, when Raphael interrupted my thoughts.

[Proposal: You've improved significantly in control. Try a larger fireball, 50-centimeter diameter, 2.1% flow per second. Aim at the rock mound 10 meters away. Success probability: 88%.]

—"Bigger? Sounds fun," —I replied, standing up with a smile. I planted my feet, took a deep breath, and channeled the magicules, visualizing a denser, hotter sphere. The spark grew quickly, forming a fireball the size of a pumpkin, its heat making the air ripple. I launched it with a flick of my wrist, and the sphere flew straight to the rock mound. The explosion was spectacular: the rocks disintegrated into a cloud of dust and fragments, leaving a smoking crater where a solid pile had once stood.

I stared, mouth agape, as Raphael spoke.

[Sufficient. Training complete. Energy released: 7.9 kilojoules. Structural damage to target: 97%. Your control is now at an advanced level for a B rank.]

I wiped a few drops of sweat from my forehead, laughing softly. I wasn't fatigued, just warm, like I'd just gone for a run. I got up from the ground, feeling the light weight of my sword on my belt.

[Full analysis: Your unique skills —[Life Source], Aura, Willpower, and fire affinity— have reached an advanced level. Magicule consumption per spell: Reduced by 62% since your arrival in Eldoria. Magical reserves: Increased by 44%, current capacity at 92%. Your progress is remarkable; you are no longer the weakling who arrived in Tarnis.]

Said Raphael, and though his tone was logical, there was a hint of recognition that made me smile wider.

—"Awesome, right? To think I was running from black spiders months ago, and now… this." —I said aloud, looking at the smoking crater—. "I feel… strong, Raphael. Like I could really do something great here."

[Confirmed. Your potential is in the top 9% percentile of Eldoria's mages. However, I recommend diversifying skills to maximize your versatility. Shall we continue with fire magic or fencing tomorrow?]

Asked Raphael.

I stayed silent for a moment, still processing the sensation of power running through my veins. I had arrived in Eldoria weak, unsure, but I was no longer that Eidel. I was someone new, someone strong, and this was just the beginning.

I decided to stay one more week in Eldoria, squeezing every moment to grow. I kept devouring books in the Archive of Eternal Light, although Raphael informed me with his calculated tone that I had already read 24% of the available tomes —a feat that would have impressed anyone, except myself, who just wanted more.

[Progress: 24% of the Archive's texts completed. Current pace: 1.3 books per hour. Mental fatigue stabilized at 19% thanks to regular breaks. I recommend diversifying topics; fencing texts are saturating your retention.]

Said Raphael as he flipped through a volume on dueling tactics.

—"I know, but the sword is still my weak point. A bit more, and then I'll move on," —I replied, closing the book and heading to the training field. I practiced fencing with Cedric, whose advice, though wrapped in flourishes, was starting to sink in. My cuts were smoother, my blocks more instinctive. I also perfected my spells, casting fire orbs I could now shape with a snap, or whips of flame that cut through rock like butter. My magical core vibrated with an energy that no longer intimidated me but pushed me forward.

Before planning my departure, I decided to take on one last guild mission. Not for the money, but because I wanted to test myself once more before going after Velgrynd. I wanted to bring her to Eldoria, although the idea of a True Dragon walking among stiff magicians made me laugh. At the guild, I picked a simple scroll: hunting magical beasts in the cave beneath the hall, with a reward of 40 silver pieces. Nothing extraordinary, just a warm-up.

I descended into the cave, and this time the pressure of the magicules didn't crush me like before. My body had adapted; Aura and Will worked in tandem, stabilizing my core while Raphael monitored the energy flow. I found a giant bear on the first level, its eyes glowing with magical fury. I faced it without hesitation, dodging its swipes with steps Cedric would've applauded. When it reared on its hind legs, roaring, I ran and drove my elven sword into its chest, a clean blow that brought it down with a final groan. Blood stained the blade, but I felt no fatigue, only a cold calm.

As I cleaned the sword, I spoke to Raphael, my voice echoing in the cave.

—"Hey, Raphael, my magical perception is still a mess. I still struggle to feel the magicules unless I focus like my life depends on it. Any way to improve that?"

[Answer: Meditation is the most efficient method. Recommended technique: 20 minutes daily, focusing on your magical core. Visualize the magicules as a river flowing around you. Will increase your sensitivity by 29% in two weeks. Warning: Requires discipline; your tendency toward action reduces consistency probability to 44%.]

Raphael replied, always direct.

I nodded, sheathing the sword.

—"Meditation, huh? Sounds boring, but I'll try. Thanks, Raphael."

I kept walking, delving deeper into the cave's levels. The darkness was dense, almost tangible, swallowing the light of the enchanted torches hanging from the walls. I had taken down other beasts —a black spider I incinerated with a fire orb, a giant bat I sliced in half— with a surprising ease. But as I progressed, something changed. The cave grew darker, the air heavier, as if I were breathing liquid lead. The pressure of the magicules was immense, a hum that made my bones vibrate.

[Alert: The density of magicules on this level is 73% above average. It is unlikely that common magical beasts survive here; the energy is too oppressive. Extreme caution is recommended.]

Warned Raphael, his voice cutting through the silence.

—"You're right," —I replied, stopping to stabilize my breathing. Aura shone around me, an invisible barrier easing the pressure, while Will kept my body steady. Without Raphael regulating the magicule transfer, I would've collapsed meters ago, crumpled like a sack—. "This is… intense. If it weren't for you and my abilities, I'd be on the ground."

I kept advancing, each step a challenge against the pressure that grew like an invisible storm. The darkness seemed alive, and the hum of the magicules resonated in my chest. Something in this place wasn't right, and my instincts told me it wasn't just another beast that lurked ahead.

...

As I moved through the cave, faint growls echoed in the darkness, a guttural sound that made my skin crawl. I stopped, frowning, wondering what the hell could be making that noise in a place where the pressure of the magicules was so crushing. Before I could process it, a sharp instinct made me jump to the side, my body moving before my mind. A fireball roared past inches from me, exploding against the wall in a shower of sparks and molten rock. Aura had kept my senses on high alert, amplifying my reaction just in time.

—"What the hell was that?" —I muttered, turning to look for the source, but a horrible roar tore through the air, so deep and visceral I felt my heart stop. The hairs on my neck stood on end, and a chill ran down my spine despite the residual heat of the explosion.

[Critical alert! Run, now!] —Raphael shouted in my mind, her voice more urgent than I had ever heard it—. [Creature detected, rank A+! Probability of survival in combat: 9%!]

I didn't have time to respond. The cave lit up suddenly, an orange glow coming from up ahead. I jumped to the side again, rolling across the floor just as a torrent of flames roared down the corridor, incinerating everything in its path. The heat was unbearable, and the rocks around me cracked, turning black. I got to my feet, panting, my sword drawn by pure instinct, but Raphael shouted again.

[Run! You can't face it! Rank A+, I repeat, run!]

I didn't move. My legs felt like lead, not from fear, but from a mix of awe and stupidity. In front of me, emerging from the darkness, appeared a creature that made my breath catch in my throat. It was a dragon, but not like Velgrynd, whose presence was majestic and calculating. This was a beast of pure primordial fury. Its body, at least fifteen meters long, was covered in scales black as coal, each bordered by a burning red that pulsed like lava. Its eyes were two golden embers, glowing with a wild intelligence, and its fangs, visible as it roared, were longer than my arm. The wings, folded against its back, were membranous and laced with veins of fire, and its tail ended in a spiked tip that shattered a column of rock with a single strike. The air around it trembled, charged with magicules so dense I could almost see them, and every step made the ground quake, shaking debris from the ceiling.

[Move! You can't win!]

Raphael raised her tone, almost as if she were desperate, something I had never felt from her.

But I didn't move. My eyes were fixed on the dragon, my mind caught between terror and stupid fascination. Then, to my surprise, the dragon roared again, a sound that rattled my bones, but it didn't attack. It ignored me completely. It unfolded its wings with a crack that echoed like thunder, and began to beat them, raising a gust of hot air that forced me to shield my face. The cave shook violently as the dragon took flight, its claws tearing chunks of rock. With a brutal motion, it began ripping through the earth ceiling, making its way to the upper levels. Chunks of stone fell around me, and the beast's roar mixed with the roar of the collapsing cave.

I remained motionless, my sword hanging uselessly in my hand, until reality hit me.

—"Damn it!" —I shouted, breaking my paralysis. The dragon was gone, but the chaos it left behind —falling rocks, flames licking the walls— told me staying here was a death sentence.

I ran toward the upper levels of the cave, my boots echoing against the cracked stone as the dragon's roar still vibrated in my ears. The air was thick with dust and ash, and each step was a struggle against the debris falling from the ceiling. Upon reaching a higher level, I saw a group of adventurers huddled against a wall, their faces pale and trembling. Some pointed with shaking fingers toward a huge hole in the cave's ceiling, an irregular crater where earth and rock had been torn away as if they were paper. Light from the outside filtered in, tinged with an ominous red, and the ground continued to tremble with the force of the beast that had escaped.

I approached the edge of the hole, gasping, and looked up. The dragon was still ascending, its massive silhouette outlined against the sky as its wings beat with a force that caused more debris to fall. Each strike of its claws destroyed more of the structure, and a guttural roar echoed, promising chaos. My stomach tightened. If it continued like this, it wouldn't just destroy the guild; it would ravage all of Eldoria.

[Critical alert! Do not engage that creature. It is an A+ rank dragon, capable of destroying a small nation in hours. Probability of victory: 0.8%. Your intervention will only accelerate the kingdom's destruction. Fall back now.]

Said Raphael, her voice sharper, more authoritative than usual.

—"Retreat? Look at that, Raphael!" —I shouted mentally, pointing at the hole even though she couldn't see it—. "If they don't do something, Eldoria will be ashes! That thing is going to burn everything!"

Without waiting for her response, I continued climbing, dodging falling rocks and leaping over cracks opening in the ground. My heart pounded, not just from the exertion, but from a certainty gnawing at me: I had caused this. My Aura, amplified in the cave to withstand the pressure of the magicules, must have awakened it. I had heard the growls right after using it, and now Eldoria would pay the price for my carelessness. I reached the guild level, or what was left of it. The main hall was in ruins: collapsed columns, splintered tables, beast trophies crushed under debris. Adventurers ran in panic, some casting weak spells toward the sky, others simply fleeing.

I stepped outside, pushing through a half-torn door, and chaos hit me like a wave. Eldoria was burning. The crystal towers reflected flames licking the buildings, and the air was filled with screams, cries, and the dragon's thunderous roar. I saw it flying over the city, its black scales gleaming under the firelight, its wings casting shadows that seemed to swallow the streets. It opened its jaws, and a torrent of flames fell upon a plaza, reducing statues and luminous trees to ashes in seconds. The mages tried to counterattack —spheres of water, gusts of wind, trembling barriers— but the dragon barely seemed to notice, turning in the sky with lethal grace.

[I repeat, it is impossible to defeat it! Your current level cannot compete with an A+ rank. The best course is to evacuate and wait for an S-rank hero or higher. Probability of one arriving in the next 4 hours: 39%. Don't be stupid!]

Insisted Raphael, her tone on the verge of logical desperation.

I stood in the middle of a shattered street, my sword in one hand, the other clenched into a fist.

—"Wait for a hero? There's no time, Raphael! This is my fault! I heard the growls when I used Aura in the cave. I woke it up, and now Eldoria is paying for it. I'm not going to stand by while everything burns!"

[Error! Blaming yourself doesn't change the facts. Your Aura may have alerted it, but the creature was already active; the magicules in the cave were 82% higher than normal before your arrival. Facing it now is suicide. Your magic core is at 79%, and your abilities cannot penetrate its shell, which resists 97% of elemental attacks. Flee and regroup!]

Replied Raphael, each word like a hammer.

—"No!" —I shouted aloud, causing an elf running nearby to look at me as if I were crazy—. "I'm not going to run! Give me a strategy, Raphael! There has to be something I can do! Even if it's just delaying it, distracting it, anything to buy people time!"

[You're being irrational. There is no viable strategy. Its physical strength exceeds yours by 614%, and its fire magic is 92% more potent than yours. A direct attack will result in your death in 99.2% of scenarios. Listen for once!]

Snapped Raphael, and I swear I had never heard her so frustrated.

I looked at the dragon, which was now unleashing another torrent of flames over a market, the stalls exploding into clouds of ash. People's screams pierced my ears, and guilt gripped my chest like a claw.

—"Raphael, don't ask me to give up! You've seen me improve, you've guided me since I was weak in Tarnis! If there's no hero now, then I have to try! Tell me how, or I swear I'll go against that thing without a plan!"

There was a pause, a silence that felt eternal as the dragon roared and fire crackled around me. Finally, Raphael spoke, her voice calmer but resigned, as if she had lost an internal battle.

[…Processing. If you insist on this madness, there is a containment strategy, not a victory one. Objective: Distract the dragon to minimize damage to the kingdom. Step 1: Use Aura at maximum to draw its attention; its perception is sensitive to magical fluctuations. Step 2: Launch amplified fire spheres, not to harm, but to temporarily blind it; aim for its eyes, probability of irritation: 41%. Step 3: Move constantly, use Will to withstand the heat and debris. Avoid direct combat; its breath can vaporize you in 0.7 seconds. Maximum distraction duration: 3 minutes before your core collapses to 12%. Probability of partial success: 22%. If you fail, I won't be able to save you.]

I swallowed hard, my gaze fixed on the dragon as it turned in the sky, its wings slicing through the smoke like blades.

—"Three minutes. I can do it. Thank you, Raphael. I knew you wouldn't leave me hanging."

[It's not gratitude I feel. This is a mistake, but… your will is a factor I can't fully calculate. Don't die.]

Said Raphael, and although she remained logical, there was a nuance that almost sounded like concern.

I gripped my sword, activated Aura until the air around me vibrated with a pressure that pushed back nearby debris, and ran toward an open plaza, straight into the heart of chaos.

—"Hey, giant lizard!" —I shouted, my voice barely audible over the roars—. "Here I am! Come get me!"

The dragon turned its head, its golden eyes locking onto me, and a roar shook the ground. My heart pounded like a drum, but there was no turning.

The dragon spun in the sky, its golden eyes glowing with a fury that seemed to burn the very air. Without warning, it opened its jaws, and a deafening roar preceded a massive blaze—a torrent of liquid fire that roared toward me like a burning avalanche. The heat came before the flames, a blunt impact that made my skin tingle even from meters away.

[Dodge right, now!]

Raphael shouted in my mind, his voice cutting through the panic that threatened to freeze me.

I threw myself to the side, rolling across the cobblestone ground of the plaza as the blaze incinerated the spot where I had been. The fire left a trail of molten stone, bubbling like lava, and black smoke rose in spirals, stinging my eyes. I jumped to my feet, gasping, my heart pounding so hard I could barely hear the screams of mages and civilians running around me. There was no time to think. I followed Raphael's strategy: distract the dragon, keep it busy, even if every second felt like tempting death.

[Fire sphere, small one, aim for its eyes! Flow at 1.2% per second, diameter ten centimeters. Now!]

Raphael ordered, his tone urgent but precise.

I clenched my teeth, raising my right hand while channeling the magicules. I visualized a compressed core, as I had practiced hundreds of times, and a spark grew in my palm, forming a fire sphere the size of a small ball. I threw it in one swift motion, aiming for the dragon's eyes as it spun in the sky. The sphere flew straight, a glowing projectile against the backdrop of smoke and ash, and struck right on its snout. The explosion was minimal, barely a flash compared to its own fire, but the dragon roared in fury, shaking its head as if stung by an annoying insect. Its eyes narrowed, and for a moment, it ignored the mages attacking from afar—ice spheres, rays of light, magical chains that shattered against its scales—and focused all its attention on me.

—"Bad idea, bad idea!" —I muttered, backing away as the dragon beat its wings with a thunderous sound that made the ground tremble.

[It worked. Its aggression is centered on you. Get ready, it's diving. Dodge left in 2.3 seconds.]

Said Raphael, and his voice was the only thing keeping my head in the game.

The dragon folded its wings and dove straight at me, its massive body slicing the air like a black arrow. Its scales gleamed with red highlights, and the heat it radiated distorted the landscape, making the distant crystal towers seem to waver. My instinct screamed at me to run, but I trusted Raphael. I counted mentally—one, two—and leapt to the left just as she instructed. The dragon crashed into the plaza with an impact that shook the entire city. The ground cracked beneath its weight, sending a wave of debris: chunks of cobblestone, fragments of a nearby fountain, even a shattered statue that flew like shrapnel. I activated Will at the last second, and a supernatural calm enveloped my body, dispelling the pain from a rock that hit my shoulder and the searing heat licking my skin. I stood among the dust, coughing, my sword still in hand even though I knew it was useless against that monster.

The dragon raised its head, its burning eyes searching for me through the chaos. It roared again, a sound of pure primal rage, and the ground shook as it took a step forward, its claws carving deep grooves into the stone. The mages in the distance took advantage of the moment, casting more spells: a whirlwind of lightning that crackled uselessly against its scales, an ice barrier that melted in seconds. Nothing stopped it, and I remained its primary target.

[Another sphere, quickly! Aim for the same right eye, flow at 1.4% this time. Keep its attention!]

Raphael ordered.

—"This is insane!" —I shouted, but obeyed. I channeled another fire sphere, slightly larger, and hurled it with all the strength I could muster. It flew straight at the dragon's right eye, exploding in a flash that made it take a step back, shaking its head with a roar of irritation. But it didn't stop. It opened its jaws, and a fireball the size of a cart burst from its throat, roaring toward me with a heat that felt like the sun itself was chasing me.

[Dodge right, get down!]

Raphael shouted.

I threw myself to the ground, rolling behind a broken pillar just as the fireball struck. The explosion was deafening, a blast of flames that obliterated the pillar and sent a heatwave that singed the edge of my cloak. Aura was still active, amplifying my senses, and Will kept my body functional, but my breathing was heavy, and sweat drenched me. I stood, staggering, and saw the dragon rising again, its wings beating to lift off. The plaza was wrecked: smoking craters, buildings with blackened façades, and unmoving bodies of mages who hadn't been fast enough. The screams of survivors filled the air, and the dragon spun in the sky, preparing for another attack.

[Fall back! Your core is at 64%. Another spell of that scale will push you to the limit. Collapse probability in 2 minutes: 47%.]

Raphael warned, her voice now a mix of urgency and cold calculation.

—"I can't fall back!" —I replied, gritting my teeth as I stared at the dragon—. "If I stop, it's over! Tell me what's next, Raphael!"

[You're being reckless. Its next move will be a wide-area breath; you can't dodge that in open field. Seek cover behind the building to your left, 15 meters. Launch another sphere when it's airborne to keep it focused on you. Survival probability for the next 30 seconds: 58%.]

Said Raphael, and though she still opposed it, her tone showed she was committed to the strategy.

I ran toward the building Raphael pointed out, a half-collapsed structure with cracked marble walls. As I ran, I prepared another fire sphere, this time smaller to conserve energy. The dragon roared, and I felt the growing heat of its next attack building in its jaws. My heart pounded wildly, but there was no room for fear—only for movement, for continuing to fight, for giving Eldoria even one second more.

I crouched behind the half-collapsed building, my chest rising and falling with rapid breaths as the dragon's roar filled the air like endless thunder. The cracked marble walls trembled with each beat of its wings, and the heat in the plaza was suffocating, a mix of ash and magic that stung my throat. I prepared another fire orb, following Raphael's instructions, keeping the flow of magicules light so I wouldn't wear myself out. The spark grew in my palm, an apple-sized orb glowing with a deep red that reflected my own determination. I hurled it into the air, aiming at the dragon circling in the sky, its black silhouette outlined against the smoke and flames devouring Eldoria.

But the dragon wasn't stupid. Its golden eyes caught the flash of my orb, and in a movement that froze my blood, it turned its head toward me and opened its jaws. A breath of fire roared from its throat—not a wide torrent like before, but a concentrated beam of white flames that seemed to cut through the air itself. My fire orb, insignificant in comparison, was swallowed by the attack, dissolving in an instant like a drop in a burning ocean. The dragon's breath continued on its path, directly toward me, and I knew there was no time to dodge.

[Willpower to the max! Brace for impact!]

Shouted Raphael, his voice cutting through the deafening roar.

I activated Willpower with a thought, letting its supernatural calm wrap around my body, and braced for the worst. The explosion was immense as the breath struck the building. A wave of heat and pressure burst out, shattering the marble into a thousand pieces and lifting a cloud of dust that blocked the sky. The flames engulfed me, a hellfire that should've reduced me to ashes, but in the chaos, I felt… resistance. My skin burned, yes, but didn't fall apart. The tatters of my cloak were singed, and the air in my lungs felt like liquid fire, but I was still standing, my body trembling but intact.

[Analysis: Your natural burn resistance, derived from Velgrynd's essence, mitigated 74% of the thermal damage. Injuries: Superficial burns on 8% of body surface, minor scratches from debris. Current status: Functional, but pain is significant. Recommend immediate retreat.]

Said Raphael, his tone a blend of relief and warning.

I groaned aloud, coughing as the smoke stung my eyes.

—"Painful? This is damn torture, Raphael! It's not like Velgrynd's fire, but it's still hell. It feels like I've been thrown into a bonfire!" —My hands trembled as I leaned on a chunk of broken wall, my sword still in my hand, though its blade was blackened from the heat.

The dragon stopped breathing fire, and the silence that followed was almost more terrifying than the roar. I looked up, wiping the sweat and ash from my face, and saw it floating in the sky, its wings beating slowly, its eyes fixed on me. It didn't attack immediately, as if it were… waiting, evaluating me. Its black scales shimmered with red highlights, and the air around it vibrated with magicules so dense that I felt my magic core hum in response. The mages in the distance were still casting spells —an arc of lightning, a spear of ice— but the dragon barely noticed them, its attention locked on the idiot still defying it: me.

[It's analyzing you. Its intelligence is higher than 92% of magical beasts. Don't let your guard down; the next attack will be more precise.]

Warned Raphael.

—"Precise? It nearly fried me already!" —I shot back, but an idea crossed my mind. If I had this fire resistance, I could use it. Not to win—there was no way to kill that thing—but to keep it occupied, to buy the city time. I straightened, ignoring the burn in my arms, and began channeling another fire orb, this time bigger, much bigger. I visualized a dense core, as Raphael had taught me, and let the magicules flow without restraint, building into a barrel-sized orb that lit the plaza like a second sun.

[Stop! That orb consumes 9.4% of your reserves per second! Your core is at 58%; you can't sustain it without collapsing in 47 seconds!]

Shouted Raphael, his voice full of alarm.

—"There's no time to be careful!" —I replied, gritting my teeth as the heat from the orb burned my hands, even with my resistance. I hurled it with a cry, putting all my strength into the motion. The fireball cut through the air at blinding speed, trailing sparks and a roar that drowned out the sounds of chaos. It struck the dragon square in the chest, exploding in a cloud of flames that lit up the night sky. The beast roared, a sound of pure beastial fury, and shook its head, its wings wobbling as fragments of scorched scales fell like black rain. It wasn't truly hurt —its scales were too tough— but I had irritated it, and that was enough.

I staggered, dropping to my knees, my breathing ragged. I felt my magic core protest, an emptiness growing in my chest, but something else was happening. [Source of Life] had activated uncontrollably, drawing in magicules from the air like a whirlwind. The environment was so charged —from the dragon, from the desperate spells of the mages— that my ability drank from it like it was starving.

[Alert! [Source of Life] is absorbing magicules at a rate of 2.7% per second. This is unstable; the flow exceeds your regulation capacity by 19%. I must shut it down!]

Said Raphael, his tone on the edge of logical panic.

—"No, Raphael, let it!" —I shouted, forcing myself to stand—. "I'm burning too much with these spells! If [Source of Life] can maintain my reserves, let it! I need everything I can get!"

[This is dangerous! The overload could damage your core by 64%. I cannot guarantee your safety if—]

Raphael began, but I cut him off.

—"There's no safety now! Just give me one last shot!" —I insisted, my voice breaking as I looked at the dragon, which was already stabilizing in the air, its eyes glowing with renewed rage.

Meanwhile, the chaos in Eldoria kept growing. Buildings burned, their crystal structures melting like wax. Civilians ran in all directions, some trapped under debris, others shouting names of loved ones lost in the smoke. The mages kept fighting, but their spells were like stings against a colossus. I saw an elf in a shredded robe try to raise a barrier over a group of children, only for it to shatter under a whip of the dragon's tail. Guilt clenched my chest, but it also fueled my resolve.

—"Listen!" —I shouted, my voice resonating over the din, amplified by a pulse of Aura I triggered without thinking—. "Civilians, evacuate! Run to the kingdom's gates, now! Don't stay here!"

Some heads turned, faces full of terror and confusion, but many began to move, helping each other as they fled the plaza. I didn't know if they were obeying me or just following instinct, but at least they were running. I turned my attention back to the dragon, which was now descending slowly, its wings beating with a precision that promised a direct strike. My magic core was at its limit, but [Source of Life] kept absorbing, giving me a spark of hope. My sword was still in my hand, useless against those scales, but a reminder that I wouldn't give up.

—"Raphael, next step!" —I shouted, planting my feet as the dragon opened its jaws again, the glow of another breath building in its throat—. "Tell me how to keep it busy!"

[…Processing under protest. Use Aura to divert its attention to a secondary target: the building to your right, partially intact. Cast a fire whip at the ground to create a smoke curtain, then run toward the structure. When it attacks, dodge and throw another orb at its wings to destabilize its flight. Probability of success in the next 20 seconds: 34%. Your core is at 52%; I cannot guarantee more than two spells before collapse.]

Replied Raphael, his voice tense but resigned to my stubbornness.

I nodded, ignoring the pain pulsing in every muscle. I activated Aura to the max, feeling the air grow dense around me, and prepared a fire whip as the dragon roared, the glow in its jaws growing like a star about to explode.

I followed Raphael's orders to the letter, my body moving almost by instinct as the dragon's roar filled the skies of Eldoria. The air was thick with ash and magic, a whirlwind of heat and despair that made every breath burn in my chest. I activated Aura at full capacity, letting a burst of magical pressure erupt from my core, so dense that the loose stones around me trembled and nearby civilians stumbled, looking at me with eyes full of fear and hope. The dragon, hovering above the shattered plaza, turned its head toward me, its golden eyes glowing with a fury that promised annihilation.

[Step 1: Fire whip to the ground, now. Flow at 1.8% per second, length of 3 meters. Create a smoke screen to cover your movement.]

Ordered Raphael, his voice an anchor in the chaos.

I nodded, raising my left hand while channeling the magicules. I visualized a flexible rope, like I had practiced with Cedric, and a spark flared in my palm, extending into a whip of fire that crackled with intense red. I lashed it against the ground with force, and the flames erupted in a blazing line, raising a cloud of black smoke that rose like a wall between the dragon and me. The heat licked at my skin, but my natural resistance kept it bearable, though the burning in my arms was already constant.

[Run to the building on your right, 15 meters! Keep Aura active!]

Shouted Raphael.

I ran, my boots slipping on the broken cobblestones as I dodged debris: a chunk of a decapitated statue, a burning wooden beam, a pool of molten glass still bubbling. The building, a marble structure with carved columns that miraculously remained standing, was just a few steps away. The dragon roared behind me, and I felt the rising heat of its next attack, a white glow illuminating the smoke like lightning. I dove behind a column just as the fire breath struck, an explosion that tore half the building apart in a shower of rubble and dust. Will was active, dispelling the pain of the splinters that scraped my back, but my breathing was heavy, and sweat was blinding me.

[Step 3: Fire sphere to its wings, 20 centimeters in diameter, flow at 1.5%. Aim for the left membrane!]

Instructed Raphael.

I peeked from behind the column, seeing the dragon rise again, its wings beating with a force that stirred hot gusts of wind. I prepared the sphere, channeling the magicules carefully so as not to exhaust myself. But as the spark grew in my palm, something in me broke. I didn't just want to distract it. It wasn't enough. The guilt of having awakened this beast, the screams of the civilians, the towers of Eldoria falling like houses of cards —all of it pushed me to act beyond the plan.

[Throw the sphere from there! Don't move forward!]

Raphael shouted, his voice full of alarm.

—"No, Raphael! I'm going for him!" —I replied, ignoring him. I ran toward the dragon, my legs pumping against the shattered ground, the fire sphere still in my hand. The dragon saw me coming, its jaws opening for another attack, but I didn't stop. I jumped with all my strength, using a mound of rubble as a ramp, and launched myself at its snout. The fire sphere hit right on its head, exploding in a flash that made it recoil with an irritated roar. Amid the chaos, my free hand found one of its rough scales, and I clung to its snout, hanging meters above the ground as the dragon shook its head.

[This is madness! Survival probability: 4%!]

Shouted Raphael, but I was already acting on instinct. I drew my elven sword with a clumsy movement, the steel shining under the light of the flames, and stabbed it with all my strength into its right eye. The blade sank, piercing the membrane with a wet sound, and a stream of burning blood splashed my arm. The dragon roared, a sound so visceral that I felt my bones vibrate, and with a violent shake of its head, it flung me away like a fly.

I fell, the world spinning around me, the wind roaring in my ears. But even mid-fall, my mind kept fighting. I channeled another fire sphere, this time much larger, ignoring the void growing in my magical core. I visualized everything I had learned: a dense core, a massive flow of magicules, a projectile that could at least hurt it. The sphere grew, the size of a carriage, its heat burning my hands despite my resistance. I threw it just before hitting the ground, aiming at the dragon's head. The fireball flew like a comet, exploding against its snout in a blast of flames that lit up the night sky. The dragon roared again, staggering in the air, but did not fall.

The impact with the ground was brutal. I landed in a pile of rubble, pain exploding in my back and legs. Will couldn't dispel everything; I felt blood dripping from a cut on my forehead, and my left arm was numb. I tried to move, but my body wouldn't respond, every muscle screaming in protest. The dragon was still in the air, its wings beating furiously, and although its right eye was shut, blood dripping down, it didn't look weakened. Just more enraged.

[You're at your limit. Magical core at 19%. Injuries: Partial fracture in third rib, bruises on 14% of body, minor hemorrhage. If you continue, you will die with a 97% probability. Activate Battle Mode now. It's the only option to delay the dragon without collapsing your core. But it's risky; I can't predict long-term consequences.]

Said Raphael, his voice grave, almost pleading.

I gasped, barely able to speak, but the idea of surrender never crossed my mind.

—"Do it… Raphael… Activate Battle Mode. I'm… I'm not going to let it destroy Eldoria because of my stupidity."

—"Confirmed. Activating Battle Mode. Transferring control to adaptive core. Warning: Your consciousness will be temporarily suppressed. Don't make me regret this." —replied Raphael, and before I could process it, a surge of energy enveloped me. My vision blurred, the pain faded, and everything went dark. The last thing I felt was my body going limp, my mind sinking into a deep sleep.

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