Neah's day at the academy followed its usual rhythm. He attended classes, his mind a whirlwind of lectures and notes. But when lunchtime arrived, he decided to step out of the classroom for a much-needed break. As he made his way towards the academy cafeteria, something peculiar happened.
A mysterious force seemed to hold him in place. Neah's steps faltered, and he couldn't move any farther. It was as if invisible bonds restrained him. Perplexed and slightly alarmed, he glanced around, searching for the source of this strange occurrence.
Then, a voice belonging to a young woman broke the silence. "Hey, I heard you've been absent for four days straight." Her tone held a hint of curiosity.
Before Neah could respond, a second voice, a male one, chimed in. "Feeling unwell or something? "This voice also carried a note of skepticism."
Neah's stern expression softened as he recognised the voices. With a sigh of relief, he replied, "Oh, it's just the two of you." His voice carried a hint of familiarity and perhaps even a touch of relief.
"Sis Gabriella, I know it's you who cast the binding spell; release it now, please," Neah said, his tone holding a blend of mild irritation and affection.
"Yeah, I told you, Ella, just greet him normally," Gabriel chimed in, his voice echoing Neah's sentiment.
Gabriella chuckled and waved her hand, dispelling the magical restraints. "Sorry, Neah, but we couldn't resist teasing you a little," she admitted with a warm smile.
Neah chuckled in return. "Well, I appreciate the warm greetings," he said, finally able to move freely.
With the magical restraints gone, Neah joined his twin siblings, Gabriel and Gabriella, for lunch. As they walked together to the academy's cafeteria, they chatted amicably about their respective classes and experiences. Neah couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging and warmth in their presence.
The cafeteria bustled with students; the clinking of utensils and the hum of conversation created a lively atmosphere. Neah, Gabriel, and Gabriella found an empty table and sat down, their plates filled with a variety of dishes.
Between bites, Gabriella asked, "So, Neah, what's been going on with you? We heard you've been absent for quite a while. Are you feeling better now? "
Neah explained in detail what had happened to him over the past few days, recounting the sudden burst of mana and the excruciating pain that followed. As they listened, Gabriel and Gabriella exchanged knowing glances, a hint of concern in their eyes.
Gabriel finally spoke up: "Neah, what you're describing sounds like something we've heard of before. It's a rare phenomenon known as mana overload."
"Yeah," Gabriella added, "and when it happens, it's usually not a good sign for mages. Most of the time, they either die or end up permanently crippled, unable to use mana ever again."
Neah's face contorted in a mixture of shock and confusion as he processed this grim information. "So you're saying... I might have experienced a mana overload. "
Gabriella leaned forward, her expression concerned. "Neah, how do you feel now? Is there anything wrong with your mana core or your mana circuits? "
Neah concentrated, trying to sense the flow of mana within him. After a moment of focus, he felt something unusual. His eyes widened in amazement. "Three? "He exclaimed. Both Gabriel and Gabriella looked at him in confusion, prompting Neah to explain further. "I had only opened two mana circuits before, but now I can sense three active circuits within me! "Excitement lit up his face as he shared this newfound discovery.
As the twins exchanged puzzled glances, clearly struggling to grasp Neah's revelation, Gabriella spoke up, her voice tinged with curiosity. "What exactly do you mean, Neah? "
Gabriel chimed in, "Mana circuits are supposed to be open, much like the veins in our body that help circulate blood. They're not something you 'open' or 'close' like a door."
Neah leaned forward to speak in a hushed tone, "Oh, maybe it's because I'm a hollow."I only discovered this quite recently—that my mana core was dry from the very beginning, and my mana circuits were blocked. It explains why I've been having such a hard time practicing magic."
The twins were taken by surprise by Neah's revelation. Both were geniuses in magic and scholars from a well-known magic tower that specialised in studying magical capabilities and the potential of different individuals. The mysterious nature of Hollows had always intrigued them, and this new information piqued their scientific curiosity.
Gabriel couldn't contain his excitement and immediately suggested, "We should head to the Green Magic Tower for further research! "
However, Gabriella observed her younger brother's discomfort at the prospect of being the subject of research. Her smile gradually faded as she sensed his unease, and she intervened by gently placing a hand over Gabriel's mouth. She turned to Neah, her voice soothing and reassuring. "Neah, you can also explore and discover these things for yourself. We'll be here to support and assist you if you ever need help."
As the bell rang, Gabriella suggested, "We should get going now; we have something to attend to." They stood up from the table, ready to depart, but before they left, Gabriella turned to Neah with a warm and caring expression. She said, "Neah, remember, take things a bit easier. We don't want you to experience mana overload again."
Neah nodded with appreciation, his smile reflecting his understanding. With that, the twins bid him farewell and began to make their way out of the cafeteria. Neah watched them leave, feeling grateful for their care and concern.
While Neah appreciated his siblings' concern and desire to help him, the mention of being "researched" left him with a sense of unease. It stirred memories of his past life on Earth and the treatments he had endured, which were far from pleasant. This unease added a layer of complexity to his emotions, and the discomfort lingered even after they departed.
After a minute of contemplative silence, Neah finally rose to his feet, a sense of resolution firm in his eyes. He muttered to himself, "I'll embrace each challenge as it comes, one step at a time, I guess."
With the newfound and more potent connection to mana surging within him, he delved deeper into his magical training. Each day presented its own unique trials. The arduous path to mastery, marked by countless stumbles and failures, only heightened the gravity of his journey. Doubts still lingered, clinging to his thoughts like persistent shadows, yet he continued to forge ahead with unwavering determination, determined to conquer the adversities before him.
The process of honing his magical abilities became a mesmerising dance, a delicate symphony of movements and incantations. He delved into the intricate art of spellcasting, weaving mana like a skilled artisan crafting an intricate tapestry. The very essence of magic became his muse, each spell an opportunity to harness his newfound strength.
Neah's days were now characterised by the harmonious rhythm of learning, trial, and error. The persistent scent of parchment and the soft glow of candlelight became his companions during late-night study sessions. The complexity of each spell, the meticulous incantations, and the focused energy manipulation were challenges he tackled with fervor.
Yet he wasn't immune to the bitter taste of failure. In the quiet solitude of his room, spells often misfired or faltered, and the disappointment of yet another setback bore down on him. Moments of doubt whispered their seductive tunes, but Neah remained resolute, dismissing those treacherous voices. For every failed attempt, he undertook an additional hour of practice, further strengthening his resolve.
While the sorcery classes at the academy provided a structured learning environment, it was the additional hours he dedicated to personal study and practice that forged him into a more capable mage. Neah's journey to master the arcane was a gruelling endeavour, fraught with challenges he wholeheartedly embraced.
Beyond the academic aspect, Neah explored the secrets of the magical world, experimenting with complex and intricate spellweaving. The shelves of his room were lined with volumes on magical theory, ancient grimoires, and scrolls filled with forgotten incantations. With each revelation, he felt like an intrepid explorer, unearthing the mysteries of a hidden realm.
The path to magical proficiency was treacherous, but Neah's unwavering pursuit of understanding and skill carried him through the darkest of nights. The challenges of the magical arts became his daily bread, nourishing his spirit even as doubts occasionally lurked in the periphery.
And as Neah ventured further into the boundless expanse of magic, he became keenly aware of the chasm that separated him from the accomplishments of his siblings. The stark reminder of his limitations remained a persistent spectre, even amid his progress.
As time passed, Neah came to appreciate that mastery was an intricate web of continuous progress, where each setback or obstacle played a unique role in shaping his journey.
In the quiet hours of introspection, he found solace in the intricate world of magic, a realm where the bond between a mage and their mana was an ever-evolving dialogue. Each day, he whispered incantations, challenged his limits, and drew closer to becoming a formidable mage.
With the realisation that doubts were but passing clouds on the horizon of his determination, Neah immersed himself in the enchanting world of magic, a world he was determined to conquer one spell at a time.
As the day drew to a close, the golden sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm and gentle glow across the academy grounds. Neah had just finished his classes, and a sense of accomplishment mingled with the fatigue of the day. The warm hues of the setting sun kissed the world with a serene tranquility.
Walking back towards his dormitory, Neah couldn't help but be captivated by the beauty of the scenery. The lush, well-tended gardens and the imposing academy buildings took on a magical quality in the soft evening light. It was a fleeting moment of serenity amidst the chaos of his daily life.
Taking a deep breath and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Neah decided to treat himself. He headed to the library, a place that held the vast knowledge of centuries, where countless books lined the shelves, waiting to be explored.
Selecting a few tomes on various subjects, he made his way to a cosy reading nook near a large, ornate window. The tranquil ambiance allowed him to immerse himself in the world of words, away from the challenges and doubts that had shadowed him throughout the day.
The pages turned as Neah delved into the stories, philosophies, and knowledge contained within those books. The soft light of the setting sun gently danced across the pages, making the experience even more enchanting. The world of academia, with its endless knowledge and unexplored realms, provided him with an escape from the weight of his expectations and the path he was carving.
As the evening deepened and the stars began to twinkle through the window, Neah decided to call it a night. Gently placing the books back on their shelves, he returned to his dormitory with a sense of contentment. The challenges of the day were set aside, if only temporarily, replaced by the sense of wonder and fascination that only the world of books could offer.
With the comforting knowledge that he was progressing on his journey, Neah settled into his bed. Sleep would soon claim him, but for now, he was at peace, knowing that the path he had chosen, no matter how fraught with difficulties, held endless possibilities and the promise of greatness. The gentle whisper of turning pages and the magic of literature wrapped around him like a warm
embrace, guiding him into a peaceful slumber.
Neah's day at the academy followed its usual rhythm. He attended classes, his mind a whirlwind of lectures and notes. But when lunchtime arrived, he decided to step out of the classroom for a much-needed break. As he made his way towards the academy cafeteria, something peculiar happened.
A mysterious force seemed to hold him in place. Neah's steps faltered, and he couldn't move any farther. It was as if invisible bonds restrained him. Perplexed and slightly alarmed, he glanced around, searching for the source of this strange occurrence.
Then, a voice belonging to a young woman broke the silence. "Hey, I heard you've been absent for four days straight." Her tone held a hint of curiosity.
Before Neah could respond, a second voice, a male one, chimed in. "Feeling unwell or something? "This voice also carried a note of skepticism."
Neah's stern expression softened as he recognised the voices. With a sigh of relief, he replied, "Oh, it's just the two of you." His voice carried a hint of familiarity and perhaps even a touch of relief.
"Sis Gabriella, I know it's you who cast the binding spell; release it now, please," Neah said, his tone holding a blend of mild irritation and affection.
"Yeah, I told you, Ella, just greet him normally," Gabriel chimed in, his voice echoing Neah's sentiment.
Gabriella chuckled and waved her hand, dispelling the magical restraints. "Sorry, Neah, but we couldn't resist teasing you a little," she admitted with a warm smile.
Neah chuckled in return. "Well, I appreciate the warm greetings," he said, finally able to move freely.
With the magical restraints gone, Neah joined his twin siblings, Gabriel and Gabriella, for lunch. As they walked together to the academy's cafeteria, they chatted amicably about their respective classes and experiences. Neah couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging and warmth in their presence.
The cafeteria bustled with students; the clinking of utensils and the hum of conversation created a lively atmosphere. Neah, Gabriel, and Gabriella found an empty table and sat down, their plates filled with a variety of dishes.
Between bites, Gabriella asked, "So, Neah, what's been going on with you? We heard you've been absent for quite a while. Are you feeling better now? "
Neah explained in detail what had happened to him over the past few days, recounting the sudden burst of mana and the excruciating pain that followed. As they listened, Gabriel and Gabriella exchanged knowing glances, a hint of concern in their eyes.
Gabriel finally spoke up: "Neah, what you're describing sounds like something we've heard of before. It's a rare phenomenon known as mana overload."
"Yeah," Gabriella added, "and when it happens, it's usually not a good sign for mages. Most of the time, they either die or end up permanently crippled, unable to use mana ever again."
Neah's face contorted in a mixture of shock and confusion as he processed this grim information. "So you're saying... I might have experienced a mana overload. "
Gabriella leaned forward, her expression concerned. "Neah, how do you feel now? Is there anything wrong with your mana core or your mana circuits? "
Neah concentrated, trying to sense the flow of mana within him. After a moment of focus, he felt something unusual. His eyes widened in amazement. "Three? "He exclaimed. Both Gabriel and Gabriella looked at him in confusion, prompting Neah to explain further. "I had only opened two mana circuits before, but now I can sense three active circuits within me! "Excitement lit up his face as he shared this newfound discovery.
As the twins exchanged puzzled glances, clearly struggling to grasp Neah's revelation, Gabriella spoke up, her voice tinged with curiosity. "What exactly do you mean, Neah? "
Gabriel chimed in, "Mana circuits are supposed to be open, much like the veins in our body that help circulate blood. They're not something you 'open' or 'close' like a door."
Neah leaned forward to speak in a hushed tone, "Oh, maybe it's because I'm a hollow."I only discovered this quite recently—that my mana core was dry from the very beginning, and my mana circuits were blocked. It explains why I've been having such a hard time practicing magic."
The twins were taken by surprise by Neah's revelation. Both were geniuses in magic and scholars from a well-known magic tower that specialised in studying magical capabilities and the potential of different individuals. The mysterious nature of Hollows had always intrigued them, and this new information piqued their scientific curiosity.
Gabriel couldn't contain his excitement and immediately suggested, "We should head to the Green Magic Tower for further research! "
However, Gabriella observed her younger brother's discomfort at the prospect of being the subject of research. Her smile gradually faded as she sensed his unease, and she intervened by gently placing a hand over Gabriel's mouth. She turned to Neah, her voice soothing and reassuring. "Neah, you can also explore and discover these things for yourself. We'll be here to support and assist you if you ever need help."
As the bell rang, Gabriella suggested, "We should get going now; we have something to attend to." They stood up from the table, ready to depart, but before they left, Gabriella turned to Neah with a warm and caring expression. She said, "Neah, remember, take things a bit easier. We don't want you to experience mana overload again."
Neah nodded with appreciation, his smile reflecting his understanding. With that, the twins bid him farewell and began to make their way out of the cafeteria. Neah watched them leave, feeling grateful for their care and concern.
While Neah appreciated his siblings' concern and desire to help him, the mention of being "researched" left him with a sense of unease. It stirred memories of his past life on Earth and the treatments he had endured, which were far from pleasant. This unease added a layer of complexity to his emotions, and the discomfort lingered even after they departed.
After a minute of contemplative silence, Neah finally rose to his feet, a sense of resolution firm in his eyes. He muttered to himself, "I'll embrace each challenge as it comes, one step at a time, I guess."
With the newfound and more potent connection to mana surging within him, he delved deeper into his magical training. Each day presented its own unique trials. The arduous path to mastery, marked by countless stumbles and failures, only heightened the gravity of his journey. Doubts still lingered, clinging to his thoughts like persistent shadows, yet he continued to forge ahead with unwavering determination, determined to conquer the adversities before him.
The process of honing his magical abilities became a mesmerising dance, a delicate symphony of movements and incantations. He delved into the intricate art of spellcasting, weaving mana like a skilled artisan crafting an intricate tapestry. The very essence of magic became his muse, each spell an opportunity to harness his newfound strength.
Neah's days were now characterised by the harmonious rhythm of learning, trial, and error. The persistent scent of parchment and the soft glow of candlelight became his companions during late-night study sessions. The complexity of each spell, the meticulous incantations, and the focused energy manipulation were challenges he tackled with fervor.
Yet he wasn't immune to the bitter taste of failure. In the quiet solitude of his room, spells often misfired or faltered, and the disappointment of yet another setback bore down on him. Moments of doubt whispered their seductive tunes, but Neah remained resolute, dismissing those treacherous voices. For every failed attempt, he undertook an additional hour of practice, further strengthening his resolve.
While the sorcery classes at the academy provided a structured learning environment, it was the additional hours he dedicated to personal study and practice that forged him into a more capable mage. Neah's journey to master the arcane was a gruelling endeavour, fraught with challenges he wholeheartedly embraced.
Beyond the academic aspect, Neah explored the secrets of the magical world, experimenting with complex and intricate spellweaving. The shelves of his room were lined with volumes on magical theory, ancient grimoires, and scrolls filled with forgotten incantations. With each revelation, he felt like an intrepid explorer, unearthing the mysteries of a hidden realm.
The path to magical proficiency was treacherous, but Neah's unwavering pursuit of understanding and skill carried him through the darkest of nights. The challenges of the magical arts became his daily bread, nourishing his spirit even as doubts occasionally lurked in the periphery.
And as Neah ventured further into the boundless expanse of magic, he became keenly aware of the chasm that separated him from the accomplishments of his siblings. The stark reminder of his limitations remained a persistent spectre, even amid his progress.
As time passed, Neah came to appreciate that mastery was an intricate web of continuous progress, where each setback or obstacle played a unique role in shaping his journey.
In the quiet hours of introspection, he found solace in the intricate world of magic, a realm where the bond between a mage and their mana was an ever-evolving dialogue. Each day, he whispered incantations, challenged his limits, and drew closer to becoming a formidable mage.
With the realisation that doubts were but passing clouds on the horizon of his determination, Neah immersed himself in the enchanting world of magic, a world he was determined to conquer one spell at a time.
As the day drew to a close, the golden sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm and gentle glow across the academy grounds. Neah had just finished his classes, and a sense of accomplishment mingled with the fatigue of the day. The warm hues of the setting sun kissed the world with a serene tranquility.
Walking back towards his dormitory, Neah couldn't help but be captivated by the beauty of the scenery. The lush, well-tended gardens and the imposing academy buildings took on a magical quality in the soft evening light. It was a fleeting moment of serenity amidst the chaos of his daily life.
Taking a deep breath and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Neah decided to treat himself. He headed to the library, a place that held the vast knowledge of centuries, where countless books lined the shelves, waiting to be explored.
Selecting a few tomes on various subjects, he made his way to a cosy reading nook near a large, ornate window. The tranquil ambiance allowed him to immerse himself in the world of words, away from the challenges and doubts that had shadowed him throughout the day.
The pages turned as Neah delved into the stories, philosophies, and knowledge contained within those books. The soft light of the setting sun gently danced across the pages, making the experience even more enchanting. The world of academia, with its endless knowledge and unexplored realms, provided him with an escape from the weight of his expectations and the path he was carving.
As the evening deepened and the stars began to twinkle through the window, Neah decided to call it a night. Gently placing the books back on their shelves, he returned to his dormitory with a sense of contentment. The challenges of the day were set aside, if only temporarily, replaced by the sense of wonder and fascination that only the world of books could offer.
With the comforting knowledge that he was progressing on his journey, Neah settled into his bed. Sleep would soon claim him, but for now, he was at peace, knowing that the path he had chosen, no matter how fraught with difficulties, held endless possibilities and the promise of greatness. The gentle whisper of turning pages and the magic of literature wrapped around him like a warm
embrace, guiding him into a peaceful slumber.
