3 Chapter 2

Six years had passed since my reincarnation into the world of Arcana mages, and with each passing day, I unravelled the intricacies of this realm, far different from the enchanting tales I once read. This world, it seemed, harboured a darker undercurrent characterized by power struggles, treachery, and the ruthless pursuit of resources necessary for the mages to ascend and attain greater heights.

During my time in the General Library of the Darkhold Family, which I gained access to three years ago, I delved into the history and secrets of this realm. I discovered that the civilization of Arcana mages expanded their dominion by enslaving other worlds, extracting their power systems, and integrating them into their own. This unquenchable thirst for power propelled them forward, forging a stronger civilization by assimilating the essence of conquered realms.

The world was vast, dwarfing my previous home in size and complexity. It consisted of seven continents, each teeming with life and numerous small islands scattered across an expansive ocean that stretched beyond the reaches of sight. However, these lands were fraught with danger, inhabited by a myriad of monsters and failed experiments of the ancient Arcana mages. Navigating this treacherous landscape required unwavering vigilance and strategic prowess.

The magic system in this world was organized into nine ranks, each denoting a significant progression in power and mastery. Although the disparity between ranks one and two was not substantial, reaching rank three bestowed an individual with the ability to singlehandedly decimate an empire composed of mighty kingdoms. The sheer destructive potential of a rank-four being was unimaginable, capable of obliterating entire continents that surpassed the expanse of my previous world's supercontinent. Such power commanded both awe and fear.

Within this realm of arcane might, the Darkhold family held a prominent position as a medium-sized organization within the Osera continent. Specializing in the creation of undead armies and terrifying zombies, the Darkhold family was led by my father, who had recently ascended to the rank of a fourth-level Arcana mage. Through a dark and transformative ritual, he had become a lich, achieving near-immortality and exponentially increasing his power. This advancement solidified the Darkhold family's influence, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with on the continent and deterring potential challengers.

Sighing at the weight of the knowledge he had acquired, Magnus contemplated the grim reality of the world he found himself in. "It has turned out to be more of a dark fantasy," he murmured, his voice tinged with resignation. Despite the unsettling revelations, a glimmer of hope was on the horizon. In a month's time, he would undergo the magical aptitude test, determining his affinities and potential for spellcasting.

Magnus harboured a secret desire for affinity with dark or shadow magic, aligning him with the powerful spells and rituals of the Darkhold family. Such affinities would grant him the ability to summon and control his own undead army, capable of protecting his interests and furthering his ambitions. However, even if he did not possess these coveted affinities, he hoped to align with fire or the rare poison attribute, which would provide him with a significant advantage if wielded skillfully.

Resolving to prepare himself physically and mentally, Magnus laid down his book and went to his private room within the massive mansion. Aware of the potential risks associated with rigorous exercise during his formative years, he aimed to develop a level of physical fitness that would prove advantageous without stunting his growth. The path ahead was treacherous and demanding, but Magnus was determined to shape his destiny in this unforgiving world.

Magnus focused on honing his physical capabilities. He engaged in a training regimen, combining exercises that enhanced his strength, agility, and endurance. Pushing himself to the limits, aiming to forge a body that could withstand the challenges he would inevitably face.

Days turned into weeks, and Magnus could feel the tangible progress he was making. His muscles grew taut and defined, his reflexes sharpened, and his stamina increased. The transformation was physical and mental, as he cultivated a steely resolve and unwavering determination.

Magnus's anticipation grew as the day of his magical aptitude test drew closer. The test would determine his affinities and his future path within the world of Arcana mages. He knew that success in the test would open doors to advanced training, access to more potent spells, and the possibility of ascending through the ranks.

Soon it was the test day, and Magnus stood in front of the examination room's steel doors that all his siblings entered when they were six years old. He steeled himself and entered the examination room.

In the room, a man in a dark cape stood looking at him with great anticipation for his results. The man soon introduced himself.

" Good morning, young master Magnus. I am the servant assigned to protect you from life-threatening situations by the family, and my name is Lucas Stormborne"

The man, who claimed to be called Lucas Stormborne, soon pulled out two crystal balls and put them gently on the table and said

" These two balls would be each used to determine your aptitude from 1-5 and to test your elemental affinity. In case you are curious about the aptitude system, 1 is the worst, and 5 is the best possible talent anyone can have. Now please, young master, step forward and put your hands on the aptitude testing ball first, then when your aptitude is determined, please put your hands on the next one"

Magnus strode forward, curiously looking at the two crystal balls in the darkly lit room with an eerie aura. He gently touched the first ball, which glowed brightly, finally showing the number 3. Afterwards, he touched the next crystal and suddenly entered a trance, and in his mind, there was a dark whirlpool with bright purple spots with a hint of cyan colour. When he woke from his trance, the man called Lucas stared intently at him with a happy smile.

" Young master, can you please tell me what colours did you see when you touched the second ball"

Magnus then began to tell him all the colours and the whirlpool he saw.

" Young master, it seems your greatest affinity is Darkness, followed by the rare poison attribute, then a small talent in the metal element"

When Magnus heard this, he was grinning ear to ear. When he got Darkness, the talent he wanted.

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A/N:

Hello guys, just to clear up confusion, the main character does not yet know there is an insect-controlling method and all the other mysterious paths that the Arcana mages have. After all, he was born in a Necromancer-focused family or clan, if you want to call it that. Don't worry, I won't be making some necromancer novel; it is just in the start since he doesn't have any other paths for him to take.