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

Headmaster Constance's frown persisted, yet rather than issuing a penalty, her statement shifted in an unexpected direction.

"Vanessa... the Academy has no plans to judge you harshly. At this moment, we're seeking the notes and pieces you've uncovered. Every trace of the Void Arts needs gathering and examination. Should they prove authentic, they could lay the groundwork for innovation, maybe even the thirteenth Arcane Path offered in our halls."

She spoke these words accompanied by a smile...

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

Constance gave a nod. "Indeed. The Void Arts have long been prohibited, but wisdom can't stay hidden indefinitely. Once we grasp them, structure them, and instruct them with care, they might integrate into the Academy's lessons. You won't face charges like a wrongdoer, Vanessa. Rather, honors await you."

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

With gratitude, she lowered her head. "Thank you, Headmaster. I'll hand over all that I discovered."

Constance's face grew gentler. "Excellent. As compensation, you'll earn Academic Points sufficient to boost your rank among fellow students. Even more vital, you'll gain access to study whichever Elemental Spell appeals to you. I'll supply the Spell Models personally. Success in etching them into your Spell Light hinges on your talent and perseverance."

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 those, advanced models will crumble 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, granting the power to pull in pure elemental energy that bolsters one's body and gradually achieves an Elemental Body, ready for the next step.

The second involved the Elemental Bind, serving as the core for every shield, barrier, and formation wielded by Elementalists.

Finally, the Elemental Pulse stood as a balanced spell generating a minor burst of unrefined elemental energy. It evades ties to fire, water, or earth... This pure force instructs them deeply on channeling and discharging power without risk.

"Given your knowledge of the three... I see no need to elaborate. Yet only after dominating these three can you select from the advanced spells at will."

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

She dipped into a profound bow. "I won't disappoint, Headmaster. I'll master the basics, and I'll deliver every note I uncovered."

Constance reclined, content. "Very well..."

***

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

Their peers' murmurs still rang in their ears. Jealousy, dread, and intrigue swirled, for summoning by Denise carried great weight.

Denise strode forward with poise, directing them to a secluded room linked to the Academy's main hall, a space set aside for crucial talks.

"Sit," she instructed plainly, indicating two seats opposite her.

Ruth gripped her notes with anxiety while Rice perched straight, fists tight, his slender frame rigid yet composed.

Denise observed them at length before uttering a word.

"You two stand out from typical students. Vale has already flagged you as prospects. This binds your futures to the Shadow Domain, aware or otherwise."

They shared a look, flattered by the candidate status.

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

A subtle grin formed on Denise's lips.

"Relax, I've already briefed the other prospects, sharing details on the Academy Competition involving every Arcane Academy across the Continent."

Shock gripped the pair. They hadn't foreseen involvement in such an event this soon!

Rice bent closer. "What tasks await us?"

Denise's gaze sparkled. "Expect challenges outside lessons. Or duties that probe beyond mere ability. Candidacy isn't random. Ruth, your rune insight proves essential. Rice, your battle senses, despite your weak build, outmatch many veterans. Vale spots promise in you both. My role is to guard against squandering it."

Denise set two sealed scrolls upon the table.

"These hold Spell Models and Combat Forms suited to your journeys. They're not presents—they're challenges. Attempt to etch them into your Spell Light. Triumph means you're ready for deeper mentorship. Failure leaves you as mere prospects, no further."

Ruth's fingers shook as she grasped her scroll. She identified the elaborate Spell Models inscribed on the material. Her unique eye pulsed once more, sensing they were all exceptional Rune Spells!

Rice unrolled his scroll too, unveiling Combat Spell Models, plus illustrations of sophisticated Combat Arts poses. His delicate form twinged imagining the trials, yet his gut urged that practicing these poses would vastly improve his physical state!

Denise grinned upon noting their responses and inclined her head.

"View this not as a prize. See it as an entrance. Vale chooses disciples sparingly. To claim a place at his side, demonstrate you can cross the threshold."

"We'll give it everything!"

Ruth lowered her head in bow. Resolve burned to absorb these spells.

Rice tightened his fists and nodded as well...

Denise regarded them quietly, pleased by their determination.

Then she rose.

"Start your training. In due course, testing comes not from me, but from Vale’s Immortals."

Astonishment hit the duo at this revelation, mingled with eagerness!

Thus, Denise departed, leaving them in the room with the scrolls emitting a soft glow in their grasp...