8 Chapter 8: Sylvan Clan x Tree of Arcane Aegis
"...But today, this arcane energy will be the basis for the ranking system, so best of luck in drawing in arcane energy,"
Alcala gave a brief lecture to the children.
"But Miss Alcala, how do we attract it?" The children couldn't help but question, as they had just heard about arcane energy for the first time.
"Similar to the awakening, the difference is that you won't be transported to the realm of arcane power. Instead, your arcane power becomes your companion, and you need to channel the arcane energy towards your arcane power. This unseen energy serves as the driving force to elevate the level of your arcane power. It sounds straightforward, but it requires intense focus."
Alcala granted the children a 10-minute break to allow them to adjust after the awakening ceremony. Time was given to the young ones to carefully scrutinize their arcane power.
Aegiswood Wand
Description:
The Aegiswood Wand is a revered artifact among practitioners of the arcane arts. Crafted from the ancient Aegiswood tree, this wand possesses extraordinary properties within the realm of auxiliary arcane magic.
Carved with intricate patterns resembling interwoven branches and leaves, the Aegiswood Wand is both a work of art and a formidable tool. When cultivated to its pinnacle potential, it unveils its true power.
Protective Barrier: At its core, the Aegiswood Wand is a guardian of the wielder, capable of creating an impenetrable protective barrier. This barrier envelops the caster, shielding them from a multitude of threats, whether physical or magical. It's said that even the most devastating of spells or attacks will be absorbed harmlessly by this mystical shield.
Arcane Power Amplification: The Aegiswood Wand has another remarkable ability: it acts as a catalyst for other arcane powers. When wielded by an arcanist, it has the unique capability to enhance the potency of their abilities. Through a harmonious connection with the wand, an arcanist can boost the strength of any type of arcane power they possess, amplifying it by an astonishing 100%. This boost can be applied to elemental spells, telekinesis, telepathy, and all other forms of arcane prowess.
The Aegiswood Wand's history is steeped in legend, with tales of its creation attributed to an ancient and mysterious wizard clan. It is said that this clan was the guardian of the revered Aegiswood tree, which was the source of both the wand's material and its protective enchantments.
Legends persist that only those with a pure heart and unwavering dedication to safeguarding the arcane arts can unlock the full potential of the Aegiswood Wand. As such, it has become a symbol of honor and protection in the world of arcane magic, passed down through generations as both a powerful artifact and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with wielding such power.
As Sebastian explored the nature of his arcane power, memories of his recent interactions within the realm of arcane power rushed back to him. He had several questions, but he was uncertain about who could provide answers to these mysteries.
***
After awakening from his consciousness, Sebastian found himself in the core area of the golden tree, where he could see 12 spherical shapes emitting various powers. He noticed that these 12 orbs had strong fluctuations threatening to break free, but the golden tree continued to harmonize them.
Sebastian felt a sense of relief as the breeze from the golden tree surrounded him.
"Child," a voice echoed, and Sebastian heard it. Upon hearing it, the voice calling him seemed strangely familiar.
"Your burden is heavy," the voice continued, and instead of searching, Sebastian listened intently to the source of the voice.
"Your journey won't be easy. I just want to remind you that this is your partial awakening. You must choose twelve guardians..."
"...In a realm unknown to mortals, young ones, there lies a story that transcends the ordinary, a story woven with threads of wonder and magic—a story that unfolds in the heart of the divine realm. It is the story of the Sylvan Arcanists, a clan shrouded in enigma whose power emanates from the depths of an ancient and mystical forest. Picture in your imagination, if you will, the fabled "Tree of Arcane Aegiswood," a towering guardian of magic with an aura that dances on the breeze, whispering secrets to the leaves.
This tree is unlike any other, for within its ancient branches rests the key to extraordinary power. With a mere touch, it can transform chosen arcanists into potent wizards, gifting them abilities that defy imagination. It's as though the tree itself selects those who are destined to be its protectors, anointing them through a profound, transformative experience.
Once every century, this venerable tree bestows a singular gift—an exquisite wand of unparalleled artistry and enchantment. These wands are not mere instruments; they are a fusion of craftsmanship and pure magic, meticulously tailored for their chosen bearers. Each one carries the promise of complete mastery over arcane abilities, becoming both a tool and a symbol of honor within the clan.
Enveloped by the tree's ethereal shield, the mystical forest exists in a space where time obeys its own rhythm. Sometimes it slows to a whisper, and at other times, it rushes like a wild river. This enigmatic phenomenon serves as a formidable defense, as though time itself bows to the will of the ancient tree.
Now, dear one, recall that the Sylvan Arcanists are not just wielders of magic; they are its keepers and protectors. To become one of them is to embark on a sacred journey. Young Arcanists venture deep into the mystical forest, guided by the very spirit of the tree. Emerging triumphant, they are not merely granted power; they are touched by the essence of the tree itself, becoming "Sylvan Arcanists" and receiving a wand of unparalleled might, handcrafted by the ancient tree's magic.
These guardians shoulder a twofold responsibility: safeguarding the Tree of Arcane Aegiswood and utilizing their newfound powers to uphold the balance of arcane forces in their world. They remain an enigmatic and revered presence, embodying the deepest mysteries of the arcane realm. Thus, young one, this tale echoes through the annals of time, an enduring narrative of destiny, guardianship, and the boundless wonders concealed within the realm of magic..."
As Sebastian absorbed these words, a dull ache crept into his head. The complexity of it all eluded his understanding, a challenge for a mere seven-year-old.
"The moment will arrive when you shall gradually unveil these truths," the voice persisted. "May you firmly grasp the mantle of virtue and the genuine essence of an arcanist. This is but a spiritual projection I bequeath to you..."
***
"...Let's begin with Izy."
The children erupted with a mix of nerves and excitement as the leveling of arcane power was about to commence. Some of them were anxious, while others were thrilled.
When the spectators heard that the most awaited part of the ceremony was about to start, they cheered and applauded enthusiastically. They were oblivious to what had transpired behind the grand stage.
Despite the unexplainable phenomena they had witnessed just moments ago, they simply shrugged it off.
Despite the encroaching chill of approaching winter, the fervor of the Whitewood villagers remained unquenched. They had gathered in force, nearly a hundred thousand strong, in the heart of the village.
Alcala, utilizing arcane resonance to project her voice, began her address. Her words rang out loud and clear across the vast square that served as the central hub of Whitewood Village. It was no small feat, for this plaza was spacious enough to host a million souls, a testament to its significance as the agricultural epicenter of the entire Kingdom of Salamanca
"I am delighted to announce to all those gathered here, all 180 participants successfully awakened their arcane power."
The previously noisy and restless crowd suddenly fell silent, and it felt as if time itself had stopped at Alcala's announcement.
