Unknown Frontier

Master Ordan's lecture opened with the origins of the ascendants, tracing the mastery of energy across civilizations. Though various intelligent species independently unlocked the key, the earliest known ascendants were the Grell, ancient beings, fragile in form but resilient in mind. The Grell, lacking physical strength, developed force fields for survival, bending energy to shield themselves from predators. Yet, they vanished long before humanoid species emerged.

The elves after much time in distant realms, pioneered a new approach, they examined the trees capabilities to convert the sunlight into energy and created a path based on it. They refined this natural conduit into their bodies and channeled focused, potent streams of power. Progress was gradual until the arrival of the Olden Gods from the Liminal Space, after which complete paths to enlightenment came into being.

The elves on this planet were also outsiders, arriving long after the Elven Enlightenment Age and settling here to create a new branch civilization.

Ordan's lecture shifted from history to practice. He briefly introduced the fundamentals of harnessing power before delving into arcane circuits, energy pathways designed for specific tasks. Circuits range in complexity, from basic nodes to elaborate arrays capable of immense feats. Ian, still at the threshold, could only explore the simplest forms until he chose a path and became an Awakened One. 

At the close of the lecture, Ordan offered a parting thought and left.

Myrra inquired Ian afterward, her eyes curious. "So, have you thought about your path?" she asked.

She suggested the path she follows: the Path of Pantheon's Favor. It is the most common and easiest path, requiring faith and devotion. By praying to the gods and offering them power through belief, one can gain their favor. The gods are real, and their blessings manifest through miracles and powers granted to their followers.

Myrra follows Emnia, the God of Tranquillity, known for peace and serenity. A devoted believer, she attends the temple regularly and finds peace in her worship.

"I am still going through it... still thinking of the most suitable path..." Ian's voice trailed off, his words weighed down by uncertainty.

Myrra glanced at him, sensing the hesitation. She knew Ian wouldn't necessarily follow the path — he was different, special. She was merely suggesting, not dictating. The quiet moment stretched, and sensing his unease, she quickly shifted the topic. "So, what did you think of today's lecture?" she asked, eager to move on.

As they walked, the sun dipped low, casting golden hues across the sky. The vibrant colors seemed to mirror Ian's tangled thoughts, the day slipping away into evening. Before long, Myrra excused herself, heading toward the temple for her evening duties.

Ian, still lost in thought, was suddenly brought back to the present by a voice calling his name. "Ian..."

He turned, and there stood Vulre, his usually playful expression now tempered with something else. Beside him was a man, his posture commanding yet calm, his eyes wise with years of experience. Rolim, Vulre's father, had an astute presence that made Ian immediately aware of the man's authority.

"Ah, Ian," Rolim said warmly, extending a hand in greeting. "It's been a while. Join us for dinner, won't you?"

Ian hesitated but nodded. Vulre's parents had returned to town after visiting their daughter, Vulre's sister Axilya, who studied at a distant university. He had met them once before, though not in any great detail.

Dinner at Eilren's house was warm and welcoming. The scent of roasted meat and spices filled the air, making Ian feel at ease. Imryll, Vulre's mother, was as graceful as ever, her movements smooth and precise as she and Rolim placed dishes on the table. The warmth of the family was comforting, and Ian found himself relaxing in their presence.

As they ate, the conversation flowed naturally. Rolim shared tales of his youth and his adventures in the outside world, while Aeson occasionally contributed with his own experiences. Overall, the conversation was rewarding, and Ian learned a lot about the world he lives in. It was clear that Vulre came from a family with rich history and strong values.

After dinner, the conversation shifted to ascendants and the paths that one could take to achieve the next leap. The discussion centered around choices, opportunities, and the many roads available to those who wanted to make a leap in their lives.

"Take a look at this and let me know if any of these you would like to pursue," Aeson said, handing Ian a catalogue.

"I can provide you with the initial levels of them," he added.

Ian flipped through the catalogue, which contained around seventy different paths. Most of them were familiar to him, but a few were new. Each one was accompanied by a summary of its basics, along with pros and cons, and how they were connected to occupations like arcane circuitry.

"How much will it cost for...?" Ian started, but his voice trailed off, unsure of how to ask.

"You don't have to pay for it," Aeson interjected, sensing Ian's hesitation.

"But..." Ian hesitated further.

"Once you have the means, you can pay it back," Aeson finished, offering Ian a reassuring smile.

Ian nodded, still unsure but grateful for their generosity. He thanked them, feeling the weight of the favor, but also knowing it was an opportunity he couldn't afford to pass up. He liked Eilren's family, and as much as it troubled him to accept, he knew he needed the capital to continue his journey. In time, he would repay it.

Afterward, Ian left the house, stepping into the cool evening air, his mind still heavy with the choices ahead of him.

From the balcony, Rolim and Aeson watched Ian leave. Rolim turned to his father Aeson. "I haven't seen you this generous before," he remarked.

"You don't find it that often," Aeson replied thoughtfully, "Suddenly appearing in an unknown place without much memory and staying calm... His character is solid. I believe he will do great things."

With that, Rolim took a final sip of wine, his eyes following Ian's silhouette as he walked away. "I hope you're right," he said quietly, the soft sound of the evening breeze carrying his words into the night.