Chaos: Genesis

Arc 2:

Uncertainty

Nefarious and Darius are training alone. The air crackles with anticipation as Darius conjures a red magic circle in his hand, its fiery glow lighting up the dim surroundings. With a rapid motion, he unleashes a weak fireball, the flames dancing at the edge of his control. Observing Darius's technique, Nefarious frowns slightly.

"You're too preoccupied with the form of the flame, neglecting the essence of power and acceleration," he remarks.

Darius inquires, his breath heavy with exertion, "What energy should I focus on harnessing, and when should I transition my focus?"

Nefarious beckons Darius closer, casting intricate holographic images depicting mana's nature, one of the three fundamental energies shaping this world.

"Mana is a potent force, capable of transforming energy into spells, incantations, and diverse manifestations of power," he explains,

"To channel mana effectively, one must use a magic circle, rune, or sigil as a conduit to convert energy into tangible forms. It's important to remember that the duration and intensity of a spell depends on the amount of mana infused into it. The more energy you invest, the longer-lasting and more powerful the spell will be."

With a solemn nod, Nefarious continues,

"Mana is different from physical stamina, as it is a unique energy source that varies from person to person. By practicing and dedicating yourself to it, you can expand your mana capacity and unlock its limitless potential."

Darius looks at the experienced mage with a furrowed brow and a hint of confusion.

"Wait, didn't you say earlier that stamina and mana are separate sources of energy?" he asks, seeking clarification on the subject.

"Indeed, I have. Consider this—after a rigorous battle, have you ever experienced such exhaustion that even the simplest tasks, like eating or speaking seem daunting? Your body demands rest, and time to recuperate before engaging in further activities. Similarly, the manipulation of spells requires a surplus of energy. Should your physical form be too depleted to even stand or move, casting spells becomes an arduous challenge. Only in dire circumstances, when your mana well runs dry, should you resort to converting your stamina as a temporary measure."

Darius straightens his posture and speaks decisively, "Understood. I must direct my focus on my mana pool and by doing so, focus on each step of the spell."

"Yes and execute the five-stage process of this spell. Remember to maintain the formation of the spell or the flame will collapse on itself."

Darius stands at the edge of the clearing, the air heavy with anticipation as he raises his hands, feeling the familiar tingle of magic coursing through his veins. It was time to demonstrate his mastery of the fireball spell, a complex dance of energy conversion that requires precision and focus. First, he begins with stage one - the formation of the magic circle, a delicate balance of control and power. He draws an intricate circle in his palm, the symbols shimmering with energy as they take shape. Moving on to stage two, Darius focuses on igniting a spark, a small flicker that grows into a roaring flame as it meets the oxygen in the surrounding air. The heat intensifies, causing the temperature to rise as he prepares for the next step. In stage three, he channels the flame, shaping it into a perfect sphere that hovers before him, a mesmerizing display of raw elemental power. With a steady hand, he guides the fire, willing it to obey his commands as he moves on to stage four. Charging up the energy was the most critical part, requiring unwavering concentration and control. Darius feels the magic surge within him, growing stronger with each passing moment while preparing for the final stage. And then, with a deep breath and a sense of exhilaration, he releases the energy in a single direction, watching in awe as the fireball shoots forth like a comet, blazing a trail of destruction in its wake. The target stood no chance, consumed by the inferno as Darius basks in the thrill of his success. Impressed by his quick wit and skillful execution, Nefarious couldn't help but commend him on a job well done.

"Take a rest, Darius."

After an hour of rest and some extra magic lessons, Nefarious and Darius sit.

"You've faced more battles with your uncle, Cyrus, haven't you?" Nefarious inquires.

"Yes, he has taught me a lot, shared battle tactics and tips on the political understandings of our kingdom."

"Indeed, with such knowledge, you might find yourself ascending the throne one day," Nefarious muses, his voice carrying a weight of mystery.

Darius chuckles softly, a wry smile playing on his lips, "If only I could build a new kingdom of my own,"

As Nefarious regards Darius with a knowing look, he asks, "Are you not a direct descendant of Teispes?"

Darius shrugs his shoulders nonchalantly, a hint of complexity in his smile,

"Well, yes, but it's a bit more complicated, my great-grandfather would say that the old kingdom was divided with his brother, but that ancient dispute stretches back through centuries," he explains, a sense of history weighing on his words.

"So, in theory, you could be the next in line after Cyrus?"

Nefarious points out. Darius looks at the sorcerer, uncertainty evident on his face,

"I suppose, in a way, my side of the family has similar rights to my uncle's, but you know, the King's sons have priority."

"Yes, that is true, but it's something to keep in mind in case something dire were to happen," the sorcerer responds.

Darius's expression shifts as suspicion creeps into his mind, but Basir interrupts the conversation.

"Darius, there you are. I have come to inform you that tomorrow morning we have an important meeting with the King. Only a select few of us will be attending, it seems to be urgent."

"Thank you. Do you happen to know what it's about?" Darius inquires.

Basir clenches his fist before stroking his chin, contemplating.

"If I had to guess, it might be about the plan to ally with the dwarves. The King wanted to send Spero, of all people. Sending someone as dangerous as him could only lead to conflict with the dwarves."

"How can you be so sure?"

Basir stands tall and firm, "Spero has a history with them. During his early days as a soldier, he assassinated one of their high generals during a trade. That is why the dwarves no longer sell their goods in these lands."

"That is concerning. Does the king remember this?"

"Who knows, we shouldn't let him get close again, he is a danger to us all."

Nefarious stands up, "I think the King has provided a good plan. Presenting a powerful asset that the enemy knows is a threat and offering to share that asset for their own endeavors could easily work in our favor."

Basir scoffs as Nefarious continues, "But Spero is quite unpredictable. I have studied numerous forms of magic and countless races, yet he remains a complete mystery to me."

Darius looks down as he considers his relationship with Spero and remembers that he is not aware of his past. The questions he asked Spero always led to short responses or vague remarks.

"I will see you at the meeting tomorrow, Basir," Darius walks away and heads home.