A vast empty room, walls of brick limestone, ceiling covered with complex symbols, and at the very center of it all, a tome floated above a small pond filled with liquid of different colors. This scene affirmed Eros that it was the final floor.

Eros was still breathing ruggedly. Using the curse for a prolonged period caused him so much energy and inflected numerous injuries.

“I guess even with my advancement in the understanding of the curse, I’m still too frail to use it.” Eros said. He then consumed some medicine, and relaxed a bit for a while.

“A diary of Ronsorth? His collection of magic? His well kept secrets?” Eros thought. “I hope it’s not a message for his beloved.”

Several more ideas ran through his mind as he waits for the pain of his injuries to subside. And after some time, he stood up, fully determined to know the secrets of the tome that lay in front.

Eros slowly walked. Overwrought, he stood in front of the small pond, only one thing on his mid. “Strenght! That is what I need to get!”

Relinquishing his unease, he stepped onto the liquid of different color. When his toes touched its surface, no ripples appeared, instead, a hard cold stone feeling similar to a floor stopped his feet.

Eros only frowned, he knew that there still many things he has yet to understand. So without thinking deeply, he proceeded on and stood in front of the tome.

He stretched his hands attempting to touch the tome on his sight. At slight contact, the tome glowed with resplendent light. Colors flashed and elements erupted from the liquid substance.

Eros’ hair whipped on different directions; wind, fire, water, and more elemental spirits formed, surrounding him without reservations. Each one of them emanating unbearable pressure that could crush any creature, but Eros was unaffected, instead, he stood there with face of slight discontent. And in his head a voice echoed out, vehement and loud. “I am Ronsorth, a genius without par, a talent that could cause envy from every corner of the lands, an elf that reached the pinnacle like a blazing sun. Even the ruler of the elves could barely be called my equal. And you, young man, who possesses knowledge and potential not many could acquire, an elf birthed from our kingdom, be the succe…” The voice stopped for a long moment, before continuing. “Ey… You’re human…”

Eros then said, “Yes, carry on.. I think you’re about to say successo..”

“No!” I was about to say, “be the successful…est, man.. And I congratulate you for reaching this floor. And good luck with your next endeavor…”

Eros’ brows twitched. Ronsorth’s character does not come close to the hero the songs preach. Even though it’s just his will, it still carries the same personality and behavior. “May I ask the reward in reaching in floor?” Eros said with calm demeanor.

There was no reply for a long time, so Eros said in an exaggerated tone, “Oh greatest hero, whose name has been sung by countless of elves from different ages, whose heroism represents the glory of Sheles, whose story has been passed on as a legend to all races far and beyond the kingdom. I would wish to seek your guidance”

After some time, the will of Ronsorth replied sounding gratified, “Since you have heard of my deeds and reached this level in the Hall of Knowledge, I shall answer one of your questions.”

Hearing this, Eros smiled wryly, and hesitated for a moment. He wanted to ask if there is another way to reach Chorias, but he felt that the only way is the King’s Crystals. So instead, he asked. “What are elements?”

Hearing this, Ronsroth’s will grew silent, and in a solemn tone, he answered. “Elements…. A question asked countless of times.” Then after a long pause he said, “The answer I will give you might not be concrete since I am still far from the truth. But I can tell you that elements are born with the lands, existed long before mortals gained sentience, and one of the primal life forms that came to existence. Some may think that elements are inanimate objects, but elves and most mages believe that they are a higher order of life forms. We can summon these so called elemental spirits and use their abilities, we can even use them to enhance our own souls and bodies, however, the truth is, we barely understood their very existence.”

Ronsorth then sighed and continued. “You can choose to believe my words or deny them. I won’t force you since this is simply my own understanding. Using them to fight makes one stronger; in fact, one can even advance to a realm beyond his own abilities and power. But what does the elemental spirits gets from this?”

Eros suddenly also had the question popping on his head. Even though he has been using elemental spirits since young, he didn’t dig deeper on to what they gain from being used by humans.

“For continued existence and growth, they allowed mortals to wield their power. Refined natural energy by mortals is their best sustenance for growth. It is what makes them breakthrough the shackles of nature. But for what purpose they wish to grow, that I do not know. So now that you have heard this, I believe you are also asking to yourself. Are we really the ones in control? That can only be answered by your own.

“The elves are loved by the nature and elemental control comes naturally as soon as we are born. So our relationship with the elemental spirits was already established. With this, I my own, have come to walk a path of co existence. Elemental spirits are my comrades, we are equal and by communicating and understanding them further, my powers have gone far above ordinary mortals. But some walk a different path, some allows the spirit to be in control, and some even go as far as infusing an element to their soul. There are countless of ways to reach out to elements, but as far as I know, my way is far more viable.

“You can also follow this path, and walk towards our ranks. However, the success still lies on your own hands.”

The voice then faded and stopped, while Eros also kept silent as his eyes glowed with understanding. And after a long moment he closed them and said with resoluteness. “No. This is not my path. Now I can see it clearer.”

Eros then turned around, stepped out of the pond, and said. “You are right. I am not suitable as your successor. My path is different than yours. It may not lead to great results, and it might be the wrong choice. But I still feel the need to proceed. Not to be equal the elemental spirits, but to... Conquer them! Break the laws, and be the one in control!”

As Eros said those words, the elemental spirits in the pond suddenly let out a roar of rage. It felt as if they will attack Eros in any moment. However, before they could, Ronsorth’s voice resounded, suppressing the elemental spirits. “Your path is yours. Following the footprints of predecessors might be a wise choice, but in the end, they might have unknowingly stepped into the wrong fork road. Now prove your worth, young human. I hope that when we meet again, you have reached a greater heights compared to mine!”

Then Eros’ surrounding suddenly blurred, while it did, a voice still lightly sounded, “I can feel our destinies are tied, so I am sure that we will meet someday” and when the voice stopped, his vision cleared, he found himself standing surrounded by a crowd. He now stood outside the Hall of Knowledge.

Everyone was shocked to see him suddenly appear. And after several breaths of silence, uproar shook the Hall of Knowledge.

“It’s Eros!!” Many shouted. “He completed the Hall of Knowledge!”

“Look! His name is on the rank 1! And beside his name it says… Final Floor!”

“I can’t believe this, he actually completed it.” Conall said with his usual gentle tone, but it carried a hint of respect and admiration.

“Hahaha.” Almon started laughing, and said. “Reaching the top at such a young age! Brilliant!”

The uproar did not stop as Eros was crowded by many elves and other races. And only after Etfeus stepped forward and shouted. “Silence!”

Everyone suddenly stopped any noise. It was as if their body involuntarily obeyed Etfeus voice. “Everyone leave. Do not make a ruckus in the Hall of Knowlede.”

Then he turned his gaze to Eros. It was affectionate and gentle. “Eros, come with me.” He said.

Everyone did not utter a word, as they were forced to leave without being able to object. Now that the excitement died down, they suddenly remembered their loss on the bet, so many left with a face filled with regret. However, they were still somehow feeling inspired after witnessing Eros clear the Hall of Knowledge. Only a few ones were smiling, one of them has a biggest grin. It was none other than Firo who obviously gained enormous amount of magic stones from the losing students.

…

Sounds of creaking floors could be heard as Eros along with Etfeus, Almon, Connal and several other elves walked a narrow hallway inside the Hall of Knowledge. And as they take their steps, the hallway seems to magically change from dilapidated to something beyond elegant.

When Eros looked back, the dilapidated hallway was no more. “Is it some form of special travel?” Eros thought. As he indulge in the idea, he didn’t notice that a door was already at the end of their path. It was simple yet elegant; Etfeus did not delay and opened it on sight, then entered with everyone as if they need to discuss something urgent.

The room was large; filled with books and different form of arts – paintings to sculptures; It almost resembled a museum, except that there is a large round wooden table where there are figures already sitting at different sides.

Those figures felt familiar to Eros. On a closer look, he realized they were the masters in Ronsorth. Just like Almon, Ruven, Connal and Meira; Elves of high status.

“So everyone is already here.” Almon said as lively as usual. “Everyone let’s sit down first.”

As everyone sat down, Eros felt the atmosphere get heavier. He knew at that point that these elves weren’t best of friends, even though he knew that they were all from Ronsorth.

“Let’s cut to the chase.” A voice cold and stern sounded. “Is he the successor?”

Eros glanced at the direction of the voice. What he saw was a man with noticeably thick brows. In his stay in Ronsorth, he has seen several grand wizards, and he recognized this one as Eldrin’s master.

“Sir Azar, we know you are eager to learn of the new successor of Ronsorth, but we have yet to ask the person himself.” Etfeus replied calmly, his eyes slowly shifting to Eros; zealous to hear his words.

Eros felt everyone’s gaze on him. It was as if he was being scrupulously studied from head to toe. Mixed doubt and excitement could be seen on their eyes. So to lessen the pressure, Eros cleared his throat and said. “I will answer your questions.”

Most of the grand wizards eyes glimmered, some frowned; Etfeus then said, “We do not wish to ask what you have seen on the top, nor what you obtained in there.” He then paused and took a deep breath, as if he was filled with excitement,” The only thing we wish to know is if you are Lord Ronsorth’s new successor.”

Eros’ expression didn’t change, but his glance swept the grand wizards. He realized that being Ronsorth’s successor might have actually carried great rewards.

Now that he saw the anticipation of these masters, he thought back and slightly regretted not taking the tome from the pond. Straightly declaring that he was not able to become the successor of Ronsorth seemed to be impossible at the moment. As every breath passed, their excitement obviously grew many times. Their eyes glimmered, and some are obviously ready to congratulate Eros as soon as he finishes with his words.

Eros felt nervous from this, and decided to answer. “Lord Ronsorth’s chosen path and mine are like different branches of a tree that sprouted from opposite direction, not to coincide with each other from the beginning to the end. Even with the countless passage of time. “

Everyone’s eyes went wide when they heard Eros, but none spoke. Silence filled the room, as they wait for Eros’ next statement.

Eros felt as if needles were being pricked on his skin from everyone’s unyielding stare. He was sure that they were trying to probe if he was lying.

“Elements.. That is what I asked.” Then Eros closed his eyes, and continued. “I am not an elf, so my understanding of elements is limited. I am not an elf so the nature does not favor my existence. I am not an elf so Ronsorth rejected me at first. Indeed I am not his successor, but when he gave me a glimpse of his path of elemental magic, we both realized that I am more fit to carry a different task, a task which was impossible for even himself, so he wish to see how far I can reach. When that time comes, we both believe that destiny would guide us to meet.”

“Preposterous!” Azar stood up and said in rage. “How dare you fabricate such story. We all know that Lord Ronsorth is no more.”

As Azar flew into rage, many other frowned. Most of them were obviously not convinced by Eros story.

“Are you saying that Lord Ronsorth is still alive?” Etfeus asked curiously.

“Indeed. Based on his will’s words, he is still alive somewhere out there.” Eros answered without hesitation. He knew that everyone believed that Ronsorth already passed away, even he have read records of such. But based on what he heard, Ronsorth is definitely alive; roaming the lands.

This time, even Etfeus frowned. He could not tell if Eros is lying or not. It is indeed strange for his age. But somehow his tone and confidence made it appear to be a story based on real experience.

The room grew silent, even Azar did not spout another complaint. Now that they knew that Ronsorth is alive, a successor isn’t that of much importance. They all are followers of Ronsorth and his teaching, so meeting him is their greatest dream. Even just nurturing his successor would have been their greatest achievement.

So now that a human claiming to walk a path even Ronsorth is unable to comprehend, that Ronsorth himself wish to see how far the boy can reach, appeared, they felt that he is as important as the successor himself.

Azar stood up and stared at Eros for a moment then turned to leave. It was obvious that he was somehow not convinced. However, he did not say a word, still weighting the truth of Eros’ claim.

Many others did the same. Some simply disappeared. Those left were a few. One of them was Connal who said, “Eros. I believe all you have said are the truth. I may not be able to see through to you for some unknown reason, but this might be a part of what makes you special, that even Lord Ronsorth himself thinks that you could accomplish what he couldn’t.” He looked at Eros gently and continued. “I will assure to make things easier for you from now on. Assisting you is same as assisting Lord Ronsorth’s goal.”

Almon nodded, slapped his hands on the table, and laughed, “Indeed. I also approve of you.”

Etfeus and Ruven also both nodded, seemingly already made their decision to assist Eros. “Reaching the top of the Hall of Knowledge is already such unimaginable achievement at such a young age. I believe you can achieve greatness in this lifetime.” Etfeus said full of praise.

Even though some left with doubts, Eros still felt assured that he imprinted in their minds that he is now someone of great importance. He knew that not being chosen as successor even though he is the only one able to reach the top of Hall of Knowledge could cause spite. So he tried to plant a seed of doubt in the grand wizard’s heart by announcing that Lord Ronsorth is alive, and that in the far future, he is destined to meet him, for he walks a path unconceivable even by Lord Ronsorth himself.

Then after some exchange of pleasantries, they left and led Eros back at his place. There Firo was already waiting with a wide smile, which Eros knew why. Eris was beside her, who quickly said, “Congratulations on reaching the top of Hall of Knowledge.”

Eros smiled proudly, and answered with tone of slight arrogance, “Right, right. I am now widely accepted as a genius. Part of this is also because of your teachings.” Then he paused and reached his hand out while saying, “However, that is not the only good news. Firo let me take a look at our earnings.”

Firo then gladly handed Eros a pocket, but his face showed a slight hesitance. Eros didn’t mind this and gladly checked into the pocket, there he saw unbelievable amount of magic stones, “We’re rich.” but after a while, he frowned and looked at Firo while asking, “Eh, there’s no more?”

“How do I say this…” Firo said while scratching his head. “You are not the only one who won. The total winnings were split into two. So you only have half of it and less my own earnings.”

Eros’ brows furrowed. “Who…” He said, but before he could continue, his eyes shifted to Eris who was smiling wide.

His eyes went wide, “It’s you!” Eros said.

“Indeed. We are now rich.” Eris said as she giggled.

“I can’t believe you have so much trust in me.” Eros said with a sigh. It was indeed a huge gamble even for him. But Eris threw away all caution and gambled all her magic stone, more confident that she would win.

….

At a separate location, a boy stepped out of a cave dragging a corpse of an abnormally large bat. His eyes showed resolve, and his body extruded an aura of unfathomable battle power; honed from several life threatening battles.

“Sir Hagen!” A boy came running from afar, when he closed in to Hagen, he said, “Have you heard of the news?”

“What news?” Hagen said calmly.

“Eros reached the top of the Hall of Knowledge, and is now rumored to be Lord Ronsorth’s successor.”

Hagen stared at the direction of the Hall of Knowledge and said with his tone unfazed. “First you took the top at the entrance tests. And next you defeated Eldrin in a battle of magic. Now you beat everyone at the Hall of Knowledge, including Lady Lensa. I think it is time for us to face each other and prove who the best one is. If it is a magic combat, I think I am not far from your standards.”

….

“So what is your plan now? Do you plan to use your status to gain more favor from everyone and eventually get a position in the kingdom” Firo asked while sitting in Eros’ room comfortably, tossing and catching a pocket filled with magic stones.

“I am not sure. But I think I would again climb the False Tree of Life. I can feel that I will be able to step on the next realm there.”

“What!?” Firo asked in shock. “Are you already thinking of stepping on the wizard realm?”

“I am not sure, but I have this strong feeling.”

“You are clearly a genius without doubt. Most breakthrough at that realm at a later age.. Being a Khrusos mage isn’t all that difficult, but breaking through to be a wizard is a completely different story. Some even reach the age of twenty, yet still stuck at being a Khrusos mage. Some even grow old and still a mage, and yet you are already on the verge of breakthrough? Such talent, Such..”

Before he could continue with his nonstop yapping, Eros said. “I am not yet sure, but I will still do it.”

“Amazing.. Indeed amazing. I am already said to have the best talent in my tribe, but you surpass me by a great margin. The heavens are indeed sometimes unfair.”

“I hope you can reach the top of the Tree of Knowledge this month. We have been climbing it since we started staying in Ronsorth, so you truly deserve to reach the top of it.” Eris said.

“If we are talking about breaking through, I think you are closer on it than me.” Eros said looking at Eris. “You have been a Khrusos mage since I met you, so I think you are already at the verge of breakthrough.”

“Really?” Firo was again filled with shock as he shifted his gaze at Eris. Then he started spouting praise without restrain.

The three talked and laughed all day, until Firo was forced to leave because he was too noisy to bear. When the next day came, Eros along with Eris took a stroll on the school. It was long since they did it for leisure.

Eris was filled with delighted smile, which gave Eros a feeling of familial warmth. In all his days in Sheles, he feels that only Eris truly cares for him.

Since they had a lot of magic stones, Eros bough anything that Eris took a liking it. It was as if they were a young couple out on a journey of love. The sight made some grumble but some smile.

After enjoying until late afternoon, they happened to see an area filled with elves and other races. At the very center of it, a small stage was erected. There two individuals were fighting with one goal in mind – to win.

This piqued Eros’ interest as he dragged Eris to watch the battle progress. And after some time of exchanging blows, a winner was decided. He was given a reward for the win, and even an item from the losing elf.

“So there is something like this.” Eros said, entertained.

“Yes. I think there are many of these. The school allows these small events so that the students can hone their fighting potential and have some fun. It is a simple fight, with simple rewards. It might not be as brutal and conclusive as a duel since it is a friendly fight, but it is still a good place to hone your abilities, and show your might.”

Eros nodded as he listened, while he watched the next fight. As he stood there watching with great interest, many elves started to notice him. He was now popular after reaching the top of Hall of Knowledge, and his name is known by everyone in Ronsorth. So some voiced out, “Isn’t that Sir Eros?”

“Maybe he should show us some magic, and participate on one fight?”

“Yes. I think we could learn a lot from him.”

Many followed along urging Eros to go up the stage.

“Eros! Eros! Eros!” Soon they kept on cheering on his name.

This caught Eros by surprise. He never thought that he would now be this popular to the masses. With the sea of students crowding over him and pushing him towards the center, he found himself just right below the small stage.

When the host of the event saw this, he quickly invited Eros up in the stage. “Sir Eros! This is such a surprise. Since you are already here, we wish to request for you to show some of your magic to us.”

Eros was about to reject the idea, but he could not walk from the crowd of elves pushing him up the stage. He could use magic to force them back, but doing so in such a lively event might gain him hatred from the elves.

And so, he was successfully put on the stage, where he could do nothing but accept that he was played. Eris also stayed below and watched from afar, slightly giggling.

Opposite Eros is a boy wearing a fancy mask. He quickly guessed that this is his supposed opponent for this event. The boy stood there without moving, seemingly also shocked from everything.

Everyone started cheering, and the host also showed his gratitude for being such a sport. So in no time, the host announced that the fight will be Eros against the masked boy, which made the excitement, grew tenfold.

Eros calmly introduced himself to his opponent, but the masked boy didn’t do the same. Instead, he started laughing and slowly removed his mask.

Revealing his face, the masked boy said. “I never expected to be our fight in this small stage, but I guess it is destiny giving me chance to show my worth.”

When Eros saw the boy’s face and heard his voice, his eyes went wide. Earlier, he found the boy to be somewhat familiar, but he didn’t think much of it since he was still unable to accept that he will be forced to a small fight.

“Hagen! It’s you!”

Everyone also voiced at the same word. This showed that they weren’t really aware who the masked boy was.

“I cannot believe this! It is Sir Hagen!” The host said with his voice louder than usual; also surprised from such development.

Hagen continued to laugh, and then said. “Since we are already here, why don’t we do a short fight? I was planning to challenge you on a duel, but this will also suffice.”

Eros was speechless. He knew that Hagen would someday challenge him, but this time, it seemed like fate pushed them together. So he simply smiled an answered, “I guess we can’t avoid this fight.”