Chapter 1: The Beginning

The shrill sound of the alarm filled the room, abruptly breaking Alder's peaceful sleep. With a groan of tiredness, Alder reached out to hit the off button, but before he could, a familiar voice resonated in the room.

"Alder, wake up, wake up! It's time to get up!"

Alder frowned, still half asleep. "Eón, what the hell are you doing? Why do you sound like an alarm clock?"

"Because it's the most efficient way to wake you up!" Eón replied enthusiastically, as the sound of the alarm faded and transformed into the soft hooting of an owl.

Alder rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the sleep as he watched Eón, now transformed into an owl, fluttering around the room.

"Come on, Alder, up! We have a new day ahead full of adventures!" urged Eón, flapping his wings with excitement.

With a resigned sigh, Alder got out of bed and began to prepare for the day ahead. He went to the bathroom, where he washed his face and looked in the mirror. At fifteen, Alder had a disheveled but friendly appearance, with dark hair that fell messily over his forehead and curious eyes that shone with intelligence.

After finishing his morning routine, Alder went down to the first floor of the building, where the huge workshop that had been his grandfather's home for decades was located. It was a place full of tools and machinery, where Alder and his grandfather spent hours working together on their projects. The walls were covered with shiny tools and shelves full of materials, creating a cozy yet energetically creative atmosphere.

Alder descended with a light step down the creaky wooden stairs, the sound echoing in the spacious workshop that occupied the ground floor of the building. At the bottom of the stairs, his eyes landed on his grandfather, who was bent over an old car chassis, his expert hands moving skillfully.

"Good morning, Alder!" exclaimed his grandfather, looking up and momentarily stopping his work. His wrinkled eyes lit up with a genuine smile upon seeing his grandson.

Alder returned the smile, feeling the warm, familiar atmosphere that always emanated from his grandfather. "Good morning, grandpa!" he replied, approaching for a quick hug.

As they separated, the grandfather dried his hands on a rag and looked at Alder affectionately. "I see you slept well," he commented, with a mix of amusement and tenderness in his voice.

Alder nodded, grateful for his grandfather's affection. "Yes, thank you. I slept like a rock," he admitted with a slight laugh, before casting a playful glance at Eón.

Eón, who had now perched on Alder's shoulder, let out a soft grunt. "Unfortunately, my contractor is a sleeping beauty," he commented in his peculiar mocking tone.

The grandfather chuckled, finding the interaction between Alder and his spirit companion endearing. "It's good to see you so lively, Eón," he responded with a smile, leaning slightly toward the little owl.

As the grandfather laughed, Alder couldn't help but curse to himself as he promised never to let Eón read children's stories to him before going to sleep again. Then, he walked to a corner of the workshop, where there was a huge tractor raised by a kind of platform. Alder positioned himself under the platform, telling himself, "It's time to work."

Alder focused on the task ahead, but suddenly, a playful voice interrupted him. "Ready to face today's challenge, sleepyhead?" said Eón from somewhere nearby, his tone imbued with affectionate mockery. "We left the repair unfinished yesterday because you were tired, but there's not much left. We just need to change the injection pump, check the filters, and make sure all the electronic parts are working."

Alder smiled at his spirit companion's remark. "Thanks for reminding me, Eón," he responded with gratitude. "Let's get to work and make this tractor like new."

As Alder and Eón focused on fixing the tractor, the reception bell rang, interrupting the rhythm of their work. The grandfather headed to the shop to attend to the customer.

In the shop, a serious-looking man, well-dressed and wearing glasses, waited patiently. His face, marked by lines of experience, still retained a youthful vitality. The man smiled as he saw the grandfather approach.

"Good morning," greeted the man kindly.

The grandfather responded with a nod and a tense smile, acknowledging the visitor. "Good morning, Oliver," he replied in a polite yet distant tone. "It's been a while since we last saw each other. What brings you to this place so far from your home?"

Oliver sighed, observing his old friend with a mix of nostalgia and resignation. "I see you haven't changed, my old friend," he commented with an ironic smile. "But then again, if you had, you wouldn't be Sebastián."

Sebastián, frowned at the comment, maintaining an impassive expression. "What brings you here, Oliver?" he asked with a note of impatience in his voice.

"Well, I've come to invite you to Gryphon Academy," Oliver revealed, his tone taking on a serious note. "We need some staff and I'd like you to come, like in the old days."

The tension in the air was palpable as Sebastián considered his old companion's proposal.

Sebastian let out a sigh, as if the mere thought of leaving his workshop weighed on his soul. "What do you think, Oliver? I am now fully dedicated to the workshop. Education is not for me," he stated firmly, his gaze drifting to the scattered tools around the place.

Oliver persisted, a pleading expression on his face. "Sebastian, I understand your devotion to the workshop, but this academy is different. We need someone like you, with experience and wisdom," he argued, urgency in his voice.

Although he understood the importance of the offer, Sebastian shook his head resolutely. "I'm sorry, Oliver. My place is here, among gears and tools. I'm not interested in academic life," he reaffirmed, with a firmness that admitted no rebuttal.

Sebastian frowned, annoyed by Oliver's persistence. "I told you I have no plans to join the academy. If you have nothing else to fix here, it would be better if you leave. I'm busy," he said, in a cutting tone.

Oliver sighed in resignation, but instead of leaving, he pulled a peculiar device from his pocket and placed it on the table. It was a bracelet shaped like a watch, but instead of hands, it displayed a circular matrix composed of several detailed symbols.

Sebastian observed the object with curiosity, feeling his annoyance transform into intrigue. Oliver smiled at the change in Sebastian's attitude and began to explain. "This is what I call a runic bracelet. It's a prototype designed to allow the use of several pre-written runic spells," he said, touching the circular part of the watch.

Sebastian watched in amazement as three concentric circles spun within the device, fitting perfectly together and changing the matrix's shape. "With each movement, the watch creates a different matrix," Oliver explained enthusiastically. "So far, we have managed to add five different matrices."

Curiosity shone in Sebastian's eyes as he examined the device closely. The prospect of exploring new magical possibilities was tempting, and Oliver noticed this with satisfaction in his smile.

Oliver continued explaining as he skillfully manipulated the runic bracelet. "As you can see, the gear system works perfectly. Each part fits perfectly, and the matrices form without any problems," he pointed out, demonstrating how he turned the moving parts of the device.

"The problem lies in the mana transmission," he continued. "We've used all kinds of materials, especially the base and the strap, to facilitate the transfer of mana from the user to the device."

He paused for a moment to observe the blue glow emitted by the bracelet when activated, but then frowned when nothing else happened.

To demonstrate the issue, Oliver placed the device on his wrist, closed it, and turned it decisively. Although the bracelet began to emit a faint blue glow, nothing else happened. He repeated the process several times, but the result was always the same: none of the matrices activated as expected.

Oliver exhaled in frustration and carefully placed the device on the workbench's surface. His eyes reflected a mix of disappointment and hope as he looked at Sebastian.

"To date, you are one of the most knowledgeable people about runes and magical devices," Oliver admitted, his words resonating in the tense atmosphere of the room. "I'd like you to take a look and see if you can find the problem."

Sebastian nodded solemnly, understanding the importance of his old friend's request. Despite the occasional differences and tension between them, there was a mutual respect rooted in their long history together. He took some tools that were carefully organized in a nearby drawer and stood in front of Oliver, ready to tackle the challenge ahead.

The workshop buzzed with the activity of both men as they began to disassemble the magic watch. The tools softly squeaked against the metal, and the metallic sound echoed in the room as they worked carefully. Sunlight filtered through the windows, bathing the scene in a soft light.

Sebastian immersed himself in the task with intense concentration, inspecting each component of the device with discerning eyes. Meanwhile, Oliver watched with a mix of anxiety and anticipation, hoping his friend could find a solution to the enigma they had encountered.

The atmosphere in the room was tense but filled with determination, and both men were resolved to unravel the mystery surrounding the magical device.

Alder had finished his task in the workshop and was about to report to his grandfather when he was drawn by the presence of Oliver. Intrigued, he stealthily approached the duo who were diligently working to dismantle a small device on the table.

Eón, in his owl form, rested on Alder's shoulder, also watching the scene unfold with interest. Alder's innate curiosity drove him to get even closer, moving silently and with eyes bright with anticipation.

He stopped near the workshop, not wanting to disrupt the concentration of the two men, but close enough to observe each movement they made in detail. The meticulousness of their work was evident, and Alder was captivated by the mystery of the device and the challenge it presented.

Meanwhile, Eón emitted a soft coo from his position on Alder's shoulder, showing his own interest in the situation. Together, Alder and Eón watched with fascination as Oliver and Sebastian unraveled the secrets of the magical device, wondering what revelations might arise from their thorough investigation.

Sebastian meticulously examined the watch, carefully dismantling each piece. After a moment of concentration, he let out a sigh of frustration. "I'm sorry, old friend," he admitted, "I really don't see any problem."

Alder interrupted the conversation with a new perspective. "Grandfather, the problem isn't in the device itself," he said, pointing to the delicate runes. "It's in the frequencies of these runes."

As he spoke, Eón transformed into the watch, visually displaying the possible combinations of runes. Each matrix had its own unique frequency, and although the runes were not activated or formed, the mere possibility within the device generated a runic frequency. "And having so many frequencies in the same device creates interference," Alder explained, as they observed how the frequencies competed with each other, creating a web of chaotic patterns.

Sebastian and Oliver watched in awe as the numerous combinations of matrices unfolded, many of which were unknown to them. It was evident that the challenge was more complex than they had anticipated.

As Sebastian pondered his grandson's words, Oliver couldn't help but ask, "What do you mean by runic frequency?" Naturally, Alder replied, "Everything in this world has a frequency. You might think of frequency as pertaining to the existence and potential existence of the object itself. Each rune has a frequency, but when creating a matrix, the frequencies intertwine to form a new one. And when fed by the correct mana frequency, it activates."

Eón, once again transformed into an owl, perched on Alder's shoulder, nodding to validate his contractor's words.

Analyzing Alder's words, Oliver frowned skeptically. "How do you know about this frequency? Can you prove it?" he asked with a note of incredulity in his voice. Alder, visibly upset by the question, let out a frustrated sigh before responding, "Because I can see it. Unfortunately, I don't think I can prove it."

Eón, still in owl form, remained attentive to the conversation on Alder's shoulder. Faced with his partner's frustration, he decided to intervene confidently, "We can't prove it, but we can make that device work."

Oliver looked at his old friend Sebastian with a mix of emotions and curiosity, searching for an answer in his face, weathered from years of work in the workshop. Sebastian, his gaze lost in some distant point, sighed before turning his attention to Alder.

"This young man is my grandson, Alder," he announced, gesturing towards the youth with his hand. "And his spiritual companion, Eón," he added, nodding towards the owl perched on Alder's shoulder. Sebastian's expression reflected a mix of pride and concern as he spoke about his grandson.

Alder, with a slight smile on his lips, nodded in greeting to Oliver, but his eyes shone with the excitement of the impending conversation. Meanwhile, Eón remained in his owl form, observing the scene with curious and alert eyes.

"He is curious and intelligent," Sebastian continued, shifting his gaze to Alder, "although sometimes he can't keep his mouth shut," he added with a tone of annoyance that did not go unnoticed by Alder, who briefly lowered his gaze before raising it again with determination.

"But if he says he can fix it, I trust that he can keep his word," Sebastian concluded, with a hint of resignation in his voice. His confidence in his grandson was evident, despite any past frustrations.

Alder, as if having received tacit approval from his grandfather, continued with his explanation. With a calm gesture, he pointed to the device in front of them.

"It's simple to fix the device," began Alder, with a confidence that surprised Oliver. "We just need to change the runes. We should place runes that form matrices with a similar frequency and do not create interference."

As he spoke, Alder carefully examined the device, studying every detail with attention. His knowledge and understanding of rune art were evident in every word he uttered.

"From what I can see," Alder continued, pointing to different parts of the device, "this was intended to have two defensive matrices, combat-oriented matrices, and, I suppose, the last one has something to do with providing support."

Oliver was surprised by Alder's precise analysis. Being able to discern the purpose of each matrix with just a glance was not something just anyone could do. He admired the young man's ability to interpret the symbols and understand their meaning in the context of the device.

As if to demonstrate Alder's point, Eón transformed back into the same device, but this time it had different runes written on it. Oliver and Sebastian watched curiously, unable to recognize the symbols that covered the surface of the device. Alder spoke up once more, seizing the opportunity to explain.

"This rune set has the potential to create six matrices," began Alder, pointing carefully to each of the runes. "The first is a defensive matrix oriented towards kinetic force. The second serves the same function but is geared to withstand energy strikes. In this way, we could cover both physical projectiles and magical projectiles."

He paused for a moment, allowing the information to be assimilated, before continuing with his explanation. "Next is the matrix that enhances ether absorption," Alder continued, pointing to another of the runes. "The following one stimulates cellular growth, basically improving the body's healing. While it can't heal lost limbs, it at least stops bleeding."

Alder continued to describe each of the matrices in detail, explaining their functions and possible applications in combat. "The next matrix allows creating a luminous copy of the user, it's like a clone," he continued, pointing to another of the runes. "And the last one is interference. The idea is to momentarily confuse the enemy."

"Unfortunately," Alder concluded with a tone of resignation, "we cannot place offensive matrices as such, since I do not know of any that have a frequency that aligns with defensive matrices."

Sebastian opened his eyes wide with surprise and some anger, clearly baffled by the revelation. "Did you create new runes again?" he asked, his tone suggesting a mix of incredulity and concern.

Alder remained composed, calmly responding to his grandfather's reaction. "Yes, while I was asleep, I came up with some new sets of runes," he admitted, with a slight smile indicating confidence in his new creations. "Don't worry, Eón simulated them; they should work correctly."

Eón, once again in his owl form, nodded with an air of sufficiency, as if proud to have validated Alder's new runes. His affirmative gesture was a sort of silent endorsement of Alder's claim about the effectiveness of the new runes.

Oliver, unable to contain his curiosity, asked in astonishment, "What do you mean by new runes?"

Alder responded almost automatically, with a spark of excitement in his eyes, "Exactly what you hear: new runes. Eón and I believe the current runic system is too boring and outdated. There are so many possible variables and combinations that the runes could be incredible."

Despite the visible excitement in Oliver, a sudden sigh escaped his lips, as if he had realized something. "But in the end, it's a pity," he continued, "I didn't bring any device for carving runes, let alone the materials. I guess we won't be able to make the change until I return to the academy."

Disappointment was reflected in his voice as Oliver expressed his frustration for not being prepared to carry out the changes proposed by Alder and Eón.

Alder fell silent for a moment, and as if an idea had struck him, he responded. "We would only need to change the rotary base and rewrite the runes," he said enthusiastically. At that moment, Eón transformed into a light bulb that suddenly lit up.

"We would only need to change the rotary base and rewrite the runes," Alder repeated, with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes as Eón shone in his luminous form. The idea of using the resources available in the workshop seemed to have lit up his mind.

"I see they used standard rune ink, but it won't work, since the runes I plan require a specific mana transmission," Alder continued, quickly assessing the situation. "I think I can work with what's in the workshop. Give me a moment."

Without waiting for a response, Alder quickly headed back to the workshop, leaving Oliver perplexed and Sebastian sighing at the tireless energy of his grandson and his spirit.

Oliver, confused by the situation, furrowed his brow as he watched his old friend, Sebastian. The latter, with a look of resignation, let out a sigh and gave him a slight smile. "Just let him be. When he gets like this, it's hard to stop him," he said calmly, as if he were accustomed to his grandson's eccentricities.

The workshop fell into a brief silence as Oliver contemplated the scene. Then, with a slight shake of his head, he replied, "I'm still on vacation and have nothing else to do. I'd rather stay and see what your grandson plans to do." His words revealed a clear interest in what was about to unfold.

Sebastian nodded as if he had been expecting Oliver's response. Then, without another word, he closed the shop and took the device in his hands. With an inviting gesture, he offered Oliver to follow him to the workshop.

Oliver accepted the invitation with a slight nod, and both men headed towards the workshop, leaving the shop behind and immersing themselves in the task that awaited them.

Upon entering the workshop of his old friend, Oliver was impressed by the variety of machines and devices present. From cars in various stages of repair to high-end coffee machines, the place was a melting pot of mechanical activity.

However, what caught Oliver's attention the most was a table located in the center of the workshop. On it were arranged various metals of all kinds, a gas torch, and a wide range of tools. Amidst all this, Alder moved skillfully, wearing several pieces of safety equipment while he cut and melted the metals quickly but with almost surgical precision.

Alder was so engrossed in his work that he did not even notice the arrival of Sebastian and Oliver in the workshop. Meanwhile, Eón, perched on Alder's shoulder in his owl form, turned his head to observe the duo. After a quick glance, he returned his focus to Alder, who continued to work intensively.

Sebastian glided over to the table with the device in his hands, his steps barely audible on the workshop floor. With precise and careful movements, he placed the artifact on the surface, making sure not to disturb his grandson's concentration. Alder, immersed in his task, barely looked up to notice the presence of the device.

The workshop was permeated with the smell of metal and the buzz of laborious activity. Tools meticulously organized and machinery parts at various stages of assembly filled the space. But at the center of all this activity, the table where Alder worked fervently stood out.

The young man skillfully manipulated the tools and materials, each movement executed with precision and determination. The gas torch burned with a bluish glow as Alder melted and shaped the metals, masterfully forming the new rotary piece.

Over the hours, Sebastian and Oliver watched in silence, amazed by Alder's skill and focus on his work. Eón, in his owl form, remained attentive on his companion's shoulder, watching curiously the progress of the project.

Finally, after hours of effort, Alder completed the new rotary piece. Carefully, he removed the old one and placed the new one in its position. The piece fit perfectly, as if it had been specifically designed for it. With a satisfied smile, Alder removed his safety mask and turned to Oliver.

"Here it is, finished!" he announced proudly, extending his hand towards the newly improved device.

Alder, with a smile of satisfaction, took the watch and carefully handed it to Oliver. "Here you go. Hopefully, it should work as expected now," said Alder, feeling a slight pride in his work.

Oliver received the device cautiously, examining it with curiosity. Although still perplexed by the rapid transformation he had witnessed, he couldn't help but feel intrigued to see the outcome of Alder's efforts. With a mix of excitement and skepticism, he placed the watch on his wrist, watching closely for any sign of activity.

Oliver turned the device's mechanism with a sense of anticipation. This time, he noticed that the turning was much smoother, as if the pieces were perfectly aligned. There was a slight click as a matrix formed, indicating that the device was ready to be activated.

With determination, Oliver extended his hand and slightly concentrated his mana. Immediately, the device reacted to his touch, emitting a faint blue glow that filled the room. With growing excitement, Oliver continued to feed the device with mana.

Suddenly, a small translucent amber barrier quickly formed around Oliver. Although the barrier was small and barely covered his body, Oliver couldn't contain his surprise and happiness, showing a perplexed expression as he watched the barrier.

Alder nodded with satisfaction and took a piece of metal that had been left on the table. With a decisive gesture, he threw it towards Oliver, who barely had time to react. However, the piece of metal simply crashed against the barrier and was repelled with force.

Alder smiled, satisfied. "That's the kinetic barrier, and it seems to work quite well against physical objects," he explained as he observed the effect with a mix of admiration and pride.

Oliver continued to turn the device, amazed by the flawless operation of each matrix. Although the effects might not compare to the power of a normal ability or that of a spirit, it was an additional magic, an extra resource that could save lives or change the course of a battle.

Oliver stopped the tests and looked at Alder with fascination. He quickly approached the young man and placed his hands on his shoulders. 

"Tell me, young man, how old are you? How were you able to understand the operation of the device and pinpoint exactly what the fault was? How did you manage to create a piece so quickly that fit perfectly? And how were you able to create runes without specialized ink?" 

Alder, surprised by the barrage of questions, felt momentarily overwhelmed. Before answering, he glanced at Sebastian, his grandfather, who nodded in approval. 

Alder answered calmly, although a sigh escaped his lips as he mentioned that he was not very fond of it. "I'm 15 years old and I guess it's thanks to the little one on my shoulder," he explained, gesturing towards Eón. The latter, assuming a pose of sufficiency, cooed softly as if pleased to be recognized. "Eón has the ability to create 3D models of any object he sees in his mind, as well as understand its operation and internal components," Alder continued. "He can also share it mentally with me. Once we have the theory, we can create all kinds of simulations in our minds. I'm not always a big fan, but Eón likes to create simulations of everything he sees."

To demonstrate Alder's point, Eón transformed into the watch. In front of Oliver's gaze, the device completely disassembled, with each piece floating orderly in the air.

Oliver raised his question again with palpable curiosity: "And why does the device work without the ink?" Alder responded calmly, outlining the concepts clearly: "The ink is really just a vehicle. While the shape of the runes is important, what's crucial is the material that supports them and its ability to transmit mana. This time, we have opted for a specific alloy that not only is compatible with mana transmission but also emits the correct frequency for each matrix. By rotating and switching between the different matrices, there is less likelihood that the runes will erase or damage, ensuring stability and proper functioning of the device."

Alder's explanation resonated in Oliver's mind, who nodded in understanding. "I see," he said with a smile.

Then, Oliver looked passionately at Eón. "So, I suppose thanks to this little one, you also came up with new runes," he asked curiously. Alder sighed, showing slight exasperation. "Partly yes. Sometimes he won't leave me alone just to pose and simulate new ideas," he admitted with a touch of resignation. Eón, with an air of sufficiency, replied, "If you weren't so lazy, we could have created many more runes."

Oliver couldn't help but laugh as he joyfully expressed: "It can even talk! I hadn't paid attention to this detail until now. I've seen spirits of all sizes and shapes, but I had never met one that could talk."

Then, he looked at Alder again, but this time with a more serious expression. "Tell me, young man, would you like to attend Gryphon Academy?"