The System
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[ Ritual Circle Detected: Would you like to place this tattoo on your body and sync? ]
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Kendell hesitated, glancing at the open classroom with the large ritual circle on the ground. The notification seemed to be triggered by its presence. Remembering Professor Falis's lesson on Ritual Tattoos and their significance, Kendell felt a surge of curiosity mixed with caution.
"Guys, give me a second," Kendell murmured to Coli and Celia, stepping closer to the ritual circle. He focused on the notification, mentally selecting 'Yes' to sync the tattoo.
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[ Where would you like to begin engraving the tattoo? ]
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After thinking for a second, Kendell mentally responded 'The center of my back'. A tingling sensation washed over him as the intricate design of the circle began to etch itself onto his skin, making his nerves light with fire as the design imprinted itself.
Kendell's bond with the arcane deepened at that moment, feeling an invisible thread of connection with the ritualistic energies surrounding him. He did his best to not show any signs of pain outwardly as the tattoo finished imprinting on his back. The process only took a matter of seconds before another notification appeared before him.
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[ Shadow Gate Circle Tattooed. Current Mastery | 1 ]
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He rejoined his friends, a subtle smile on his lips, his mind racing with the possibilities this new bond presented. 'This is a third-year ritual! I can't believe I am getting access to it on day one... hopefully I don't have to show anyone this for a while or I am going to have way too many questions to answer. I need to experiment with this later once I get to my dorm.'
The trio continued their journey to Ritual Seals class, discussing strategies for their upcoming lessons and how best to support each other in their studies. Celia, with her analytical mind, proposed a study schedule, while Coli suggested practical exercises to test their learning. Kendell contributed insights using his previous life as a programmer, finding parallels in the logic and structure of rituals and coding.
In Ritual Seals class, they were introduced to the intricate art of crafting seals that harnessed magical energies. Their professor, Elara Grent, was a renowned figure in the world of ritual magic, known not just for her expertise in seals but also for her groundbreaking research in the containment of otherworldly entities. She was a woman of medium stature, with piercing blue eyes that seemed to hold centuries of knowledge. Her hair was streaked with silver, and she moved with an air of confidence and authority.
As she began the class, Professor Grent's voice was calm yet commanding. "Ritual seals are the cornerstone of safe and effective magical practice. They are not merely symbols; they are powerful tools that bind, contain, and direct magical energies."
She paced the front of the classroom, her hands gesturing to the various seals displayed. "These seals," she continued, "are your first line of defense and control. Without them, even the most potent rituals can go awry, leading to disastrous consequences."
Kendell listened intently, his gaze following each seal Professor Grent pointed out. He could feel the power emanating from them, a testament to their importance in ritualistic practices. As she explained more and more about seal rituals, Kendell found himself drawn to the delicate balance of power and control required to create effective seals.
"The art of crafting these seals requires precision, focus, and a deep understanding of magical energies," Professor Grent explained. She then revealed a surprising fact about her past. "Many years ago, I witnessed a catastrophic event caused by a rogue summoning. It was then I dedicated my life to mastering and teaching the art of ritual seals, to ensure such tragedies are never repeated. I am sure if you dig around you will hear the full story but I will give you a few details to stress the significance of sealing rituals."
The class was captivated by her story, the gravity of their studies settling upon them. She recounted the tale of her and her husband's attempt to call upon a high level dark force, but did not have the proper restraints in place. When the entity was summoned it ignored their call for a contract and instead consumed her husband as payment for being brought out of the depths of hell. Professor Grent's journey added a layer of urgency and significance to their learning. The students realized that their mastery of seals would be crucial not only for their advancement but also for their safety and the safety of others.
"For your first lesson," Professor Grent continued, "we will begin with the basics of seal construction. Each seal is composed of specific lines and curves, imbued with magical intent. Precision in their creation is paramount."
She demonstrated the creation of the most basic containment seal, her hands moving with practiced ease. As she traced the intricate patterns in the air, the lines glowed faintly, forming a shimmering, complex symbol. "Notice the fluidity and accuracy required," she instructed. "Each stroke is deliberate, each curve has a purpose. Now I know that you all cannot draw ritual circles in the air yet, however, please practice in the study hall. You will be given a mechanism that temporarily allows you to trace in the air without actually imbuing any magical intent. For now please copy this down onto your paper."
Kendell and his classmates practiced under Professor Grent's watchful eye. They struggled initially, their lines shaky and imprecise. However, Kendell found a rhythm, his previous programming experience lending him an unexpected edge in understanding the logical patterns of the seals.
As the class progressed, Professor Grent shared insights into the practical applications of seals. "In advanced classes, you will learn to harness these seals for various purposes – binding summoned entities, enhancing other rituals, and even protecting against dark magic. But always remember, with great power comes great responsibility. A poorly crafted seal can be more dangerous than no seal at all."
The class concluded with an assignment to craft a series of basic seals, which they would present the next week using the unique mechanisms available at the study hall. Kendell felt both challenged and excited by the task. He knew that mastering these seals would be a crucial step in his journey at Tilanaz.
She then proceeded to tell them, "Unfortunately, there will be no How to Craft a Ritual Circle class this week- and you will begin this course next week. The professor assigned to this course is on assignment from the academy and will be back this weekend, so you have an early day for now!"
The class cheered, knowing this meant more time to grasp the basics in the other courses they had just begun.
After class, Kendell, Celia, and Coli gathered to discuss their assignments. They decided to meet later in the study hall, dedicating time to practice and perfecting their seals.