Chapter 81: Paths of Magic: The Nine Academies
Noticing Louise's condition gradually improved, Julius felt a sense of relief wash over him. He couldn't bear the thought of losing someone who had sacrificed so much to protect him.
Once Louise was stable enough, Julius and the others carefully transported her back to the carriage, where she could rest more comfortably.
Arun and Asha stayed by her side, keeping a close watch over her as she continued to recover.
With Louise out of danger, Julius sat on the carriage driver's seat and turned to look at his big brother, his eyes gleaming with gratitude.
"Thank you for your help, big bro. We couldn't have saved her without you."
Adam nodded, a faint smile stretching his lips. Despite his initial confusion and uncertainty, he had found himself drawn into their plight, compelled to offer whatever assistance he could.
Then, Julius explained what happened in the past four years after he left Gaston's cave, as promised.
He recounted how he travelled alone on the roads to reach the northern sea of the Belloria kingdom while avoiding drawing attention from Eleanor's family. His years of work to afford the ship's ticket, his encounter with Arun and the subsequent events.
As he listened to Julius' story, Adam understood he had returned among the living and that his endless fight with Gaston had lasted four years.
However, most of his questions remained unanswered.
"So, you really are Julius."
Mixed feelings fought on his somber face as his voice cracked. He had seen the boy grow up since he was a baby but suddenly missed four years. Julius was now an unrecognisable teen with an intimidating musculature. But more importantly, the boy would turn thirteen next year...
"Yes, big bro. I did my best to prepare for your awakening. We are currently heading to the College of Alchemy and Transmutation. I hope I didn't pick the wrong one."
Julius puffed his chest in pride, a smug smile spreading across his face as if asking to be praised for his arduous efforts. Deep down, he felt happy that his big brother slowly adapted and found his place in this reality he must consider alien.
"Well. I like alchemy. It became a passion because of that old coot, Theodore. As for the other magical academy... Cough.... I don't even know their names, much less what they teach."
He avoided the boy's eyes, embarrassed to see their roles reversed for the first time. After all, he was usually the one teaching and giving information.
"I learned about them all. Let me tell you their names and briefly explain their specialities," Julius answered happily.
The Academy of Elemental Arts is dedicated to the mastery of elemental magic, where students learn to wield their powers. They study the intricate connections between the elements and how to manipulate them to cast spells and shape the world around them.
The Academy of Summoning's students delve into the ancient art of summoning, learning how to call forth creatures and entities from other realms. They study the rituals and incantations necessary to forge pacts with beings beyond the mortal plane, gaining allies and familiars to aid them in their magical endeavors.
The School of Dark Magic and Necromancy focuses on the darker aspects of magic, delving into forbidden arts such as necromancy and shadow manipulation. Students learn to harness the powers of death and darkness, raising undead minions, casting curses, and wielding sinister magics.
In contrast to the School of Dark Magic, the Academy of Light Magic specializes in the radiant energies of light and holiness. Students here study healing, purification and protection spells, as well as offensive spells that banish darkness and smite evil.
At the Academy of Transformation, students explore the transformative power of magic, learning to shape-shift and take on different forms. They study the anatomy and behaviors of animals, mastering the ability to transform into beasts and harness their primal instincts and abilities.
Illusionists from the Institute of Illusions specialize in the art of deception and trickery, mastering spells that manipulate perception and create convincing illusions that can fool the senses and confuse enemies.
Alchemists and transmuters at the College of Alchemy and Transmutation study the science and art of alchemy, experimenting with the transformation of substances and the creation of magical elixirs and potions. They explore the properties of rare ingredients and conduct experiments to unlock the secrets of transmutation.
Enchanters at the Arcane Academy of Enchantment learn to imbue objects with magical properties, enchanting them with protective wards, enhancing their abilities, or imbuing them with special powers. Students study ancient runes and symbols, mastering the art of enchantment to create powerful artefacts and charms.
Astral mages at the School of Astral Projection explore the realms beyond the physical plane, learning to project their consciousness into the astral realm and communicate with otherworldly beings. They study divination, spiritual healing, and astral combat, honing their skills to navigate the mysteries of the cosmos.
Once he heard about the nice academies, Adam couldn't help but think about Alina.
'If she has potential for magic, she has to go to the Academy of Summoning.'
He tucked his fingers around his chin, his brows creased into a frown.
He remembered how she scared him twelve years ago with the weird titles she used in the graveyard. He did not doubt she would become a terrifying summoner!
Then, he thought about Julius' choice.
Learning potent spells with long casting time would never be what he sought. Instead, he wanted to develop ways to control mana to do his bidding, bypassing the need for chanting or casting.
Even if he didn't know if it was possible, he wanted to tread this path until he found the answer.
After pondering for a while, Adam finally declared.
"You made the right choice; good job, kid."
Honestly, he was ok with any of the three last academies since they aligned with his objectives the most. However, it was true that he ultimately preferred the one about alchemy.