Arcane Academy: The Divine Extraction Legacy Chapter 1182: Observer
Previously on Arcane Academy: The Divine Extraction Legacy...
A wave of anticipation quickly swept through the classroom. Because this Holy Arts Curriculum was brand new, there were no seniors to consult regarding the nature of these spells.
As the inaugural class of Holy Arts students, a lingering thought persisted that they were merely subjects in an experiment conducted by the Immortals of this land.
Having already learned about the fundamental spells utilized by the Church, the Paladins, the Sanctum, and the Sentinels, the students were desperate to discover which path the Academy itself had selected.
With a lingering smile, Professor Yena inquired, "Well then… what do you think the Academy's three foundational Holy Arts spells are?"
Hands were thrust into the air instantly.
"It must be Holy Sun Ray! Even for a low-tier spell, its complexity is well-known."
"Professor, I bet it's Radiant Shield. A defensive spell is a logical start."
"No, my guess is Solemn Hymn. The Academy would surely prioritize something inspiring for our first lesson."
One after another, guesses flooded the room. A few students even proposed that the Academy had developed a hybrid model by merging spells from various organizations. However, Yena simply shook her head at every suggestion…
"Professor, is it Blessing Dew? My mentor mentioned it as a primary healing spell that calls forth holy water droplets to close wounds."
"I disagree… I've read about Halo Ward. It generates a soft ring of light for protection. Surely the Academy would want us to start with defense."
Another student raised his hand, determined to be the one who guessed correctly…
"What about Chant of Serenity? It focuses the mind and calms the heart. Isn't that the perfect starting point for beginners?"
A boy sitting in the back let out a scoff. "That’s too weak. My money is on Smite Spark… it's just a small bolt of holy energy, but at least it offers offensive capabilities."
"Perhaps it is Sacred Ember," a girl remarked after a moment of thought. "A tiny flame meant to incinerate corruption. That seems fitting for the Academy."
The theories continued to grow more imaginative as time passed.
"Prayer of Dawn! It’s symbolic, isn't it? The first light of morning leading the way."
"Virtue Seal… I've heard it can suppress minor curses. That would be highly practical for us."
"Grace Hands. It produces a gentle glow that wards off evil spirits and can even be used to strike. It’s a lesser-known but incredibly versatile Holy Spell."
Some students began competing, trying to outshine one another with increasingly complex theories.
Since Professor Yena remained silent, the debate among the students intensified.
"Could the Academy have designed a hybrid spell? Something like Healing Flame, merging the Church's Healing Prayer with the Paladins' Flame of Benediction? The Academy is famous for its Fusion Spells, so it wouldn't be shocking if our first spells were that difficult to master."
"Or maybe Star Hymn… isn't that the fusion of Sacred Chant and Echo of Grace?"
Professor Yena maintained her smile and listened with patience, yet she continued to shake her head at every proposal.
Irene and Galatea traded looks. They recognized their classmates' desperate desire to appear intelligent. However, they had a feeling that the Academy’s choices would be much simpler—and far more significant—than these flashy suggestions.
The room finally fell into a hush when Yena raised her hand for silence.
"You are all mistaken," she stated in a soft voice. "The introductory Holy Arts of this Academy are not what you anticipate. They weren't chosen for the sake of a spectacle, but to ensure you build a rock-solid foundation... Pay close attention…"
"The first spell is Holy Hands," she announced.
Shock rippled through the room. Everyone recognized this spell; it was common and inexpensive, with Spell Models available for purchase in almost any shop!
However, Yena began to manifest the Spell Model upon her palm, manipulating her Arcane Energy for all to see…
The moment the model took shape, the students realized it would not be easy to record. Still, they estimated it would likely take only a week or two to successfully record such a spell.
Observing their reactions, Yena nodded before continuing her explanation.
"This spell manifests an invisible hand composed of holy energy. Its purpose is support rather than combat… used for steadying, lifting, or assisting. This art teaches you control and precision, but more vital is how it trains your Spirit Strands to reach beyond your physical form. Do not dismiss it. A healer lacking control over their reach is no healer at all."
The students looked at one another. While some appeared let down, others nodded as the logic began to sink in.
"The second spell is Faith Pulse."
The spherical Spell Model transitioned into a far more intricate pattern.
"While common detection arts sense the body or flesh, Faith Pulse is designed to detect the soul and spirit. It grants you the ability to perceive hidden intent, corruption, or the unique energy signature of another. Though subtle, it is a vital tool for any Holy Arts practitioner. Without it, you remain blind to the true nature of those around you."
Audible gasps filled the hall. Many students began writing feverishly in their notebooks. For most, the concept of sensing souls instead of physical bodies was entirely revolutionary.
After the initial disappointment of Holy Hands, they hadn't expected to be given something so remarkable.
"And the final one… Holy Light."
Once again, the model resting on her palm transformed.
Upon hearing the name Holy Light, many students gave a small nod of approval. This appeared to be their primary offensive technique.
Of course, its classification could shift toward support depending entirely on the caster's intent.
"To the untrained eye, it looks like simple, harmless illumination. However, this Holy Light targets the soul rather than the flesh. It possesses the power to strengthen, soothe, or—if required—strike the soul directly. This spell will teach you the true gravity of the Holy Arts. Light is not always a gentle thing. At times, it can burn…"
A stunned silence gripped the students.
One boy whispered under his breath, "Holy Hands… Faith Pulse… Holy Light… They sound basic, but I actually like them!"
Irene and Galatea shared the sentiment. They understood immediately that these spells weren't picked to impress others. They were selected to establish a foundation that would endure for a lifetime…
Nevertheless, they couldn't shake a sense of curiosity regarding a certain gaze directed at them from someone hidden within the room…
'Who is this person watching us?'