Chapter 4

Chapter 4:

The Archmage took a deep breath. "We must prepare, Your Majesty. The Magic Tower stands ready to assist in fortifying our defenses and unraveling the nature of this threat. We will need the kingdom's full cooperation and resources to face what is coming."

King Thallan nodded, his resolve hardening. "You have my full support, Archmage. We will protect our realm from whatever danger approaches."

The Archmage bowed once more, a glimmer of relief in his eyes. "Thank you, Your Majesty. We shall begin preparations immediately."

It wasn't that the magic tower needed the help of ordinary humans, it was just that in a situation where there was an uncertainty in the number of the invaders, every manpower would be necessary.

As the Archmage departed to relay instructions to his followers, King Thallan remained in the council chamber, his mind racing with thoughts of the unknown threat.

This was a threat that even forced those high and mighty arrogant Sorcerers to seek his aid. He wasn't foolish enough to doubt the legitimacy of the Archmage's words. There were guardians who saw little to no intervention from the Gods amongst the humans.

The future of Atlan hung in the balance, and the king knew that only through unity and strength could they hope to overcome the looming darkness.

…

The Archmage, a Grand Sorcerer named Lorian, hurried through the castle's corridors, his mind preoccupied with the grim news. He still had other places to visit and issue a call to arms.

Due to this, he nearly collided with a young boy wandering the halls, dressed in fine royal attire with a curious, intelligent gaze. The boy looked up at Lorian, noticing the intricate sigil on his cloak — the mark of the Magic Tower.

"Your Highness," Lorian said, bowing slightly. "Forgive me, I didn't see you." No matter how lofty his status as a mage was, it was still mandatory to show proper courtesy upon meeting royalty.

Aida, having quickly deduced the man's identity from his attire and the badge, nodded politely. "It's alright. Are you from the Magic Tower?" During his studies, of every three history books, one would have an extensive amount of information on Magic, mages and the Magic Tower.

Lorian smiled at the young prince's perceptiveness. "Yes, I am. My name is Lorian, Grand Sorcerer of the Tower."

Aida's eyes widened with interest. "Can you tell me more about magic?" What Reincarnator would come across such an opportunity and let it pass them by?

Lorian hesitated, then decided there was no harm in indulging the prince's curiosity. "Of course. Magic is a vast and intricate field. There are many ranks within the magical community, each denoting a level of mastery and understanding."

He gestured for Aida to follow him, and they walked slowly through the castle gardens. "At the base level, we have the Novices or Apprentices, those who are just beginning their journey into magic. They are followed by the Adepts, who have advanced beyond basic training and are developing a deeper understanding of magical principles."

Aida listened intently, his young mind eager to absorb every detail. "What comes after Adepts?"

"Next are the Mages or Magicians, skilled practitioners who have mastered the basics and specialize in specific magical disciplines, like elemental magic or enchantments. Above them are the Sorcerers or Sorceresses, magicians with innate magical talent or those who have studied extensively."

Aida's eyes sparkled with excitement. "And after Sorcerers?"

"Beyond the Sorcerers are the Archmages, the pinnacle of magical achievement. They possess mastery over a wide range of magical disciplines and can cast incredibly powerful spells. Finally, there are the Grand Magi like the Current Tower Master, rare individuals who have surpassed even the Archmages in skill and knowledge."

Aida nodded thoughtfully. "That sounds incredible. Can anyone learn magic?"

Lorian smiled. "In theory, yes. However, true mastery often requires an innate connection to magic, something that we refer to as being Homo Magi. These individuals, like yourself, Your Highness, have a natural affinity for magic and can harness its power more easily than ordinary humans."

Aida looked at his hands, a new sense of wonder filling him. "So I can become a Grand Magus one day?"

"With dedication and the right guidance, anything is possible," Lorian said warmly. "But remember, magic is not just about power. It requires wisdom, responsibility, and a strong moral compass."

As they continued to walk, Lorian, who had sensed a strong magical aura emanating from Aida, paused as if studying the young prince more closely. "You have a remarkable gift, Your Highness. Your body is exceptionally attuned to magical energies."

Aida beamed with pride. "Thank you, Lorian. Can you teach me?"

Lorian considered this. Training a royal was not a simple task, especially with the looming threat from outer space. However, he saw potential in Aida that could not be ignored. "I will speak with your parents. If they agree, I would be honored to help you begin your magical education."

Aida's excitement was palpable. "Thank you! I promise I will work hard."

As they parted ways, Lorian couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. The young prince's potential could be a crucial asset in the times to come.

—

Aida sat at his desk, surrounded by stacks of books and scrolls. His room was dimly lit, the only light coming from a flickering candle on the desk and a small, enchanted crystal that emitted a soft, steady glow. The young prince was deeply engrossed in a complex treatise on magical theory, his brow furrowed in concentration as he meticulously took notes.

A soft knock at the door broke his focus. He looked up, slightly annoyed at the interruption, but quickly composed himself. "Enter," he called out.

The door opened slowly, and Alina stepped in. She carried herself with the grace and poise of a seasoned maid making it hard for him to even take out his annoyance at her. "Your Highness," she began with a warm smile, "your father has summoned you."

Aida sighed, closing the book he had been reading and placing it gently on the desk. "Thank you, Alina," he replied, rising from his chair. He took a moment to stretch, feeling the tension in his muscles from hours of study.

Alina waited patiently, her eyes filled with a mixture of pride and concern. She had watched Aida grow from a curious toddler into a diligent young prince, and she knew how much he valued his studies. "Do you know why my father wants to see me?" Aida asked as he straightened his robes.

"I'm afraid I do not, Your Highness," Alina replied. "But it sounded important."

Aida nodded, his mind already racing with possibilities. "Very well. I'll go at once." He gave Alina a small, appreciative smile before heading out of his room, his thoughts shifting from magical theory to the summons awaiting him.

—

Aida walked down the castle corridor towards his father's study, his mind still lingering on the book he had left behind. The summons had been unexpected, and he couldn't help but feel a bit anxious since the reason for it was probably magic related.

When he reached the heavy wooden door, he took a deep breath and knocked.

"Enter," came King Thallan's commanding voice from inside.

Aida pushed the door open and stepped into the room. King Thallan was seated behind a large oak desk, his expression serious. The room was lined with shelves of books and various artifacts, giving it an air of authority and wisdom.

"You wanted to see me, Father?" Aida said, bowing respectfully.

"Yes, Aida, sit down," Thallan replied, gesturing to a chair opposite him. Aida did as he was told, sensing the gravity of the situation. "I've been informed about your growing interest in magic," Thallan began, his tone measured. "It's unusual for someone of your rank to pursue such studies."

Aida met his father's gaze, determined but respectful. "I understand, Father. But I believe magic could be beneficial for me and for our kingdom. I have a natural aptitude for learning quickly, and I find the study of magic particularly engaging."

Thallan's eyebrows rose slightly. "Aida, you must understand that royalty engaging in magical practices is not common. It can be seen as unbecoming and even distracting from more important duties."

"With all due respect, Father," Aida replied, choosing his words carefully, "I am not as prominent in the line of succession as Aric or Damon. My role in the family is less defined, and I believe I can contribute more significantly through my magical studies. I've demonstrated my ability to learn and master new concepts quickly, and I am confident I can excel in this field."

Thallan leaned back in his chair, studying his son thoughtfully. "You make a compelling argument, Aida. However, I feel like there's more to be learnt in the castle."

"Fathe-"

"How's your swordsmanship coming along?"

"I am well above the squad captains in skills alone." Aida replied seriously as he fixed his gaze on his father.

Thallan who saw this frowned and made a gesture to his back causing the shadow there to wriggle much to Aida's shock. And from the Shadow, a man appeared and whispered to Thallan's ear before walking back into it.

"I see." King Thallan began. "Magic is a path I deem personally useless to a royal such as yourself as I feel like there's no need for a king to worry about his safety if he has capable hands and feet around him."

Aida squinted his eyes but remained silent. He understood his father's words. As a King there was no better assurance than knowing your personal strength was greater than all. Something about honour and dignity.

"I am prepared for that, Father," Aida said earnestly. "I am willing to prove myself in any way necessary."

Thallan was silent for a moment, then nodded slowly. "Very well. If you are truly committed to this path, you must first prove your discipline and resilience. I want you to pass the Imperial Knight Captain test. If you can demonstrate your capability in this challenge, I will consider allowing you to pursue your studies in magic."

Aida's eyes widened slightly at the challenge, but he nodded resolutely. "I accept your terms, Father. I will pass the test."

"Good," Thallan said, a hint of approval in his voice. "You are dismissed. Prepare yourself well, Aida. This test will be unlike anything you have faced before."

Aida stood and bowed again. "Thank you, Father. I will not disappoint you." He turned and left the room, a smile threatening to split his mouths. Wasn't this the exact thing he was waiting for? He could finally learn magic.

With this, a lot of things could be done to make his life more comfortable. The only obstacle was the knight commander.

Aida had made a lot of preparation since he understood his situation as a Reincarnator and had put in a lot of time and attention into making himself at his peak condition in every physical and spiritual aspect as a Human.