Arcane Academy: The Divine Extraction Legacy Chapter 1218: The Rewards and Challenge

Headmaster Constance's frown persisted, yet rather than delivering punishment, her speech veered in an unexpected direction.

"Vanessa... the Academy isn't aiming to punish you. Right now, we're after the notes and pieces you've uncovered. Every trace of Void Arts has to be gathered and analyzed. If they're real, they could build the base for fresh discoveries, possibly even the thirteenth Arcane Path offered in our halls."

She spoke with a smile...

Vanessa's eyes grew wide. "The... thirteenth Path?"

Constance gave a nod. "Indeed. Void Arts have long been banned, but wisdom can't stay hidden indefinitely. Should we grasp them, structure them, and instruct them with care, they might join the Academy's lessons. You won't face charges like a criminal, Vanessa. Rather, you deserve a reward."

A wave of relief flooded Vanessa, steadying her shaking hands at last.

She dipped her head in thanks. "Thank you, Headmaster. I'll hand over all that I discovered."

Constance's face grew gentler. "Excellent. As exchange, you'll earn Academic Points, sufficient to boost your rank among fellow students. Even better, you'll get to pick any Elemental Spell you wish. I'll supply the Spell Models personally. Success in etching them into your Spell Light rests on your talent and resolve."

Vanessa's breath hitched once more, this time from thrill. "Any spell... whatsoever?"

"Yes," Constance affirmed. "However, you must first conquer the three core spells of the Elemental Arts. Lacking them, advanced models will shatter during your imprinting efforts."

Vanessa nodded. She was familiar with the three core spells of the Elemental Arts.

The initial one was the Elemental Channeling Spell, or the skill to pull in pure elemental energy that could fortify one's body and gradually achieve an Elemental Body, ready for the next step.

The next involved the Elemental Bind. It served as the core for every shield, barrier, and formation used by Elementalists.

Finally, the Elemental Pulse... This neutral spell generated a brief burst of pure elemental energy. It wasn't tied to fire, water, or earth... It was untainted power that effectively guided them in channeling and unleashing force without risk.

"Since you're aware of the three... I won't go into details. But only after mastering these three can you select from the advanced spells at will."

Vanessa's spirit lifted high. She had braced for discipline, maybe even dismissal, but now opportunity and acclaim were hers.

She bowed low. "I won't disappoint, Headmaster. I'll master the foundations, and I'll deliver all the notes I uncovered."

Constance reclined, pleased. "Very good..."

***

Meanwhile, Ruth and Rice trailed after Denise as she guided them deeper into the Academy's corridors.

The murmurs from their classmates still rang in their ears. Envy, dread, and intrigue filled the air, for being summoned by Denise was a major event.

Denise strode forward with composure, directing them to a secluded room next to the Academy's main hall, a spot meant for important talks.

"Take a seat," she instructed plainly, pointing to the two chairs opposite her.

Ruth gripped her notes tightly in anxiety, while Rice perched straight, his hands balled up, his slender frame rigid, yet he stayed composed.

Denise observed them at length before she began to speak.

"You two aren't typical pupils. Vale has already flagged you as prospects. That binds your futures to the Shadow Domain, like it or not."

The pair shared a look, feeling privileged as candidates.

Even so, Ruth gulped. "Why... summon us at this moment?"

Denise's mouth hinted at a subtle grin.

"Relax, I've already briefed the other prospects, and they learned a bit about the Academy Competition involving every Arcane Academy across the Continent."

The duo felt stunned. They hadn't anticipated joining such an event this soon!

Rice shifted closer. "What tasks await us?"

Denise's gaze sparkled. "You'll face challenges outside the usual lessons. Or duties that probe deeper than mere ability. You've earned candidate status for good cause. Ruth, your knack for runes holds great value. Rice, your battle senses, despite your weak build, outmatch many veteran fighters. Vale spots promise in you both. I'm tasked with making sure you don't squander it."

Denise set two sealed scrolls upon the table.

"These hold Spell Models and Combat Forms suited to your journeys. They're not presents, but challenges. You'll try to etch them into your Spell Light. Success proves you're ready for more instruction. Failure leaves you as mere candidates, no further."

Ruth's fingers shook as she grasped her scroll. She spotted the detailed Spell Models carved on the paper. Her unique eye sparked once more, sensing they were all elite Rune Spells!

Rice unrolled his scroll too, displaying his Combat Spells Models, and beyond that, sketches of sophisticated Combat Arts poses. His slim form twinged at the idea of practicing them, yet his gut urged that drilling these poses would vastly improve his build!

Denise grinned upon noting their responses and gave a nod.

"Don't view this as a prize. See it as an entryway. Vale doesn't take disciples without thought. To stand with him, you must show you can step through."

"We'll give it everything!"

Ruth lowered her head. She resolved to grasp these spells.

Rice tightened his fists and nodded as well...

Denise regarded them quietly, content with their determination.

Then she rose.

"Start your training. In due time, your trials will come not from me, but from Vale’s Immortals."

The pair reeled at the news, yet excitement surged through them!

With those words, Denise departed, leaving them in the room with the scrolls still shimmering softly in their grasp...