Chapter-2 Mysterious Invitation

Lennox surveyed the forest cautiously, his eyes searching for any hidden observers or subtle clues. Disappointingly, he found no signs or lurking figures nearby.

His grin widened. "I've got to find out more about this Nexus system, and figure out what this Nexus Academy is all about, and uncover these mysterious powers," he murmured to himself. A spark of wonder and excitement flickered in his eyes. 'I've been burdened with two curses. I've always felt something was wrong with the world,' he reflected, lost in thought.

As Lennox descended the hill, he pondered the eerie similarities between his dreamworld and the enigmatic figure's words. Doubt flickered could it all be illusions induced by Aetherbane? He quickened his pace, eager to find out more and why it took so long.

The setting sun painted the sky in shades of orange and purple, casting Mash City. The city, with its tightly-packed buildings made of mud and bricks, served as Lennox's familiar backdrop. Despite its challenging economic conditions, where structures crowded the streets, he had grown accustomed to its unique sights and sounds after spending many years there.

Lennox's ears pricked at the sound of a voice, a sharp note of fear slicing through the tranquility around him. "Is that an Emberflare?" The words hung in the air, laced with trepidation. The voice, tense and anxious, seemed to come from somewhere close.

As Lennox entered Mash City, the narrow streets bustled with people wearing worn-out, dirty clothes. The moment they spotted Lennox, a wave of fear rippled through the crowd. They avoided eye contact and hurriedly moved away from him, their faces filled with dread. In the city, Emberflare eyes were infamous, instilling fear and superstition. Lennox couldn't help but think that if the people could unite, including those with Emberflare eyes like himself, they could create a better life together. Yet, he had grown used to the reactions and hushed whispers around him.

"Haha!" Lennox chuckled, his lips curling into a half-smile. 'For some reason, I just love that look,' he thought, his heart feeling oddly light.

Initially, Lennox considered asking the locals for information. However, he felt the city's library was the best place to learn more about the mysterious letter and the Nexus. With a deep breath, he inhaled the tempting scent of freshly baked bread in the air. Crossing the bustling crossroads, he headed towards the library.

Upon entering the library, dappled sunlight filtered through the canopy overhead, casting golden and green hues on the polished wooden floors. The air carried a faint but captivating aroma—a blend of aged parchment and ink. The walls were adorned with towering bookshelves, where leather-bound books nestled next to weathered scrolls, each promising untapped knowledge and revelations. Sunlight streamed through arched windows, creating pools of light that danced gracefully on the pages.

At the front desk, a reader received a stern reprimand from the librarian. Nevertheless, other readers scattered throughout the library glanced up as Lennox entered. Their collective gaze landed on Lennox's distinctive eyes, fear etched across their faces. Hastily, they gathered their belongings and moved away.

One reader, spotting Lennox's entry, couldn't suppress a gasp and loudly declared, "An Emberflare!" The keep-quiet rule crumbled as the readers reacted with alarm. Swiftly, they grabbed their books, with some retreating from the library and others shifting further away from Lennox's presence.

Ignoring the commotion, Lennox remained focused on his quest. He navigated the library's expanse, scanning each shelf. As he passed, readers continued to keep their distance. After a few minutes of fruitless searching, a dejected expression clouded his face. However, his fortunes changed when his eyes finally fell upon a green book bearing the simple title, "Powers." At once, his face lit up with renewed hope.

"Hopefully, it's all in here," Lennox thought with a contented smile as he carried the book toward an empty desk. As he approached, the reader already seated there swiftly vacated the spot, preempting his unspoken request to share the table. While he had grown accustomed to such reactions, attributing them to the assumption that they acknowledged his goodwill in allowing him to read, he was momentarily baffled by the reader's abrupt departure. Not dwelling on matters that didn't benefit him, he settled into the vacant seat and eagerly opened the book.

...

The library's hushed ambiance once again enveloped him, the presence returning to mere whispers amidst the aura of quiet reverence. Suddenly, Lennox's ears perked up as he caught snippets of conversation emanating from a small group of readers nearby. The group had gathered closely, their voices pitched low but tinged with an unmistakable air of excitement.

"Did you hear? The Nexus Academy is more than just a school. It's a place where students harness the energy of different realms!" one reader exclaimed in surprise.

"Yes, I heard that Nexarcs can manipulate elemental forces, control shadows, and even commune with astral entities. It's as if they're connected to the very fabric of reality," another reader chimed in, their enthusiasm palpable.

"I've heard that Nexarcs can blend bloodlines, fusing their powers into something entirely new. Just imagine the possibilities wielding strengths to battle, explore, and command multiple realms," added another reader, their voice filled with awe.

Lennox's eyes widened in response as he absorbed these tidbits of conversation. "Nexus Academy... so it is real," he murmured softly, allowing his voice to blend with the library's quiet hum.

...

The words hung in the air, stirring a flicker of curiosity within Lennox. However, he found himself torn, uncertain about what lay ahead. How could he locate the Nexus Academy, let alone qualify for admission? "Could I truly be a Nexarcs? It's a daunting prospect, but the allure of harnessing Nexus energy," Lennox mused softly.

"They say gaining entry to the Nexus Academy is no simple task. Aspiring students must demonstrate a unique connection to the Nexus energy," the first reader lamented, seemingly disappointed by their own inability to join.

"Even those who gain admission face trials that push their abilities to the limits. Only the strongest can survive and thrive, uncovering the mysteries of interconnected realms," added the second reader.

"I've heard of Nexarcs manipulating weather, conjuring illusions, and even altering time. It's believed they hold the key to maintaining balance among worlds," the third reader enthused in awe.

Listening to this exchange, Lennox pondered the possibilities. If Nexarcs could control weather, he wondered what latent bloodline power might reside within him. "To manipulate energies, to command the elements... The prospect is tantalizing," he articulated with hope and a genuine thirst for knowledge, desiring to enroll in the Nexus Academy.

...

"Rumor has it that a cosmic conflict is brewing, and the fate of Nexarcs hangs in the balance. The academy serves as a nexus of destinies, preparing them for the impending battles," the first reader spoke with a note of fear for the Nexarcs' role.

"Imagine the incredible journey exploring realms, unlocking ancient bloodline powers. It's a life beyond our wildest dreams," the second reader marveled.

"Ah, to be a Nexarcs and venture into realms far beyond our forest, to be a part of something greater," the third reader added in a tone of awe.

Amidst this sacred ambiance, Lennox eventually decided to depart the library, quietly making his way back to the familiar embrace of the forest. Along the way, he pondered aloud, "I've always wondered if there was more to my life than the unending routine of the forest. The Nexus Academy offers a chance to break free, to transform my life. Even if I bear formidable power, merely leaving this place would be a significant step forward," he declared.

Lennox, too, couldn't help but reflect on the profound pull he felt toward this newfound destiny, his voice vibrating with anticipation. "This journey is about more than just acquiring power. Perhaps I can meet new people, genuine individuals who won't flee from me. Perhaps, finally, I can make some true friends," he shared, his mind conjuring memories of a solitary past, a past where companionship was a rare treasure.

Lying beneath the canopy of trees on his makeshift bed, Lennox gazed up at the starlit sky above. The night held a different kind of enchantment, a promise of the unknown. Thoughts of the Nexus Academy danced through his mind, as if the stars themselves conspired to guide him toward this new path.

"I have to reply to the Nexus Council's letter before sunrise," Lennox said, a sense of urgency creeping into his voice. "Tomorrow's the first step on a journey that could change everything," he added, feeling the weight of the moment settle in his chest.

With these resolute thoughts in his heart, Lennox succumbed to sleep, the excitement of the forthcoming day intermingled with dreams of uncharted realms. The soft glow of the moon bathed the forest in a serene light, embracing the possibilities of the future.