-Lex Speros POV-

“Hey Lex, you mentioned earlier during the spars, that you once blocked a grown man’s Warhammer right.” (Aearial)

“Hmm...that’s correct, why?” (Lex)

Right now, all of us are in the cafeteria except for Mr. Cyril, Ms. Erline and Florian who I guess are doing other things right now. It’s been a short while after we finished our first day of class with our new Instructor.

“You said that it was a long story to explain, but to be honest, I’m m very interested in what it felt like when compared to what you felt today.” (Aearial)

“Same here, it’s not every day that someone can say that they blocked a strike from a Warhammer and lived.” (Elena)

How long has it been since that day, if I remember correctly it has been about two years since that event, but where should I begin though, I guess the reason for it is only appropriate.

-Two years ago-

Today was a normal day than for me as I walked while chatting with some friends from class. Currently it’s been a few days since class began after I was admitted into the academy and it has been fun.

The classes are so far rather simple since this is the beginners class which teaches things that range from basic arithmetic to survival skills. Even though it is the start, I feel excited because this is the first step that I have taken towards my dream.

Everything was normal as I chatted and laughed with some friends until I began to hear loud voices and some grunts of pain.

It was after we finally rounded the corner that lead to the open courtyard that I knew where the sounds were coming from.

What I saw was a group of three large guys that surrounded another smaller guy who was clutching his stomach on his knees. They threw insults at him and punched him a few more times.

I felt something rising in my stomach as I watched this, but before I could act, I felt a hand on my shoulder and when I turned it was one of my so-called friend John.

“Come on let’s go, getting involved won’t help anyone except make them change their target to us. Besides I think that guy is a noble as well so it gives us more reason to walk away.” (John)

I was shocked by his words that bluntly said that we should just allow them to continue bullying that guy. I was shocked, but I was also disappointed in them, even though I felt that they were good guys it only extended towards keeping their heads low and avoiding danger to protect themselves.

I shook away John’s hand off my shoulder while I ignored his words and proceeded to begin quickly moving towards the group of bullies.

“What. You still think that you are better than us just because you read some books. I don’t care if you are favored by some instructors, it doesn’t change the fact that the only place that you belong is groveling beneath others feet.” (Noble)

“Are you finished yet, because if you are than can you get out the way, I have some class to get to.” (Smaller guy)

After he said that was when they began to violently kick him repeatedly and that was when my hurried walk that was hoping to resolve the situation peacefully changed into a raging run that changed its mind after seeing that.

Even though I was pissed off, I couldn’t help but smile from what the small guy had said to them making it sound as if it was a simple guy blocking the way.

It seems that the guy that was insulting him before was the group’s leader and when I was closing in on them, it seems that he heard me coming from my loud footsteps as he turned around.

What he was greeted with was someone that wanted to be good friends with him and his name was my right fist as it connected with his unsightly face. It seems that the sucker punch caught him even more off guard than I expected because he got knocked away into one of the other guys and they fell on top of each other.

“Well said, you are correct because if you don’t hurry then you may be late for class!” (Lex)

It was as if time stopped after I appeared because everyone froze and nobody spoke a word for a few moments. I placed myself in front of the small guy to protect him while I stared down at the other three guys.

“Who the hell are you, this doesn’t involve you. If you walk away now we won’t come after you as well.” (Noble)

Th annoying guy that I punched said this while him and his friend got up while angrily glaring at me, but it doesn’t sound convincing when you and your friends are moving to surround me and the small guy.

“I would if you stopped harassing this guy, but that doesn’t seem very likely to happen.” (Lex)

“As if!” (Noble)

Once he said that it began with their group charging towards me while I firmly stood my ground ready to meet them with everything I had.

-30 minutes later-

Currently I was on the ground while enduring the pain I was feeling while the guy who I defended was next to me while we sat in silence.

After the group began their attack on me after I refused to back down I held them off while protecting him, but fortunately numbers weren’t in my favor but they changed their focus and target onto me.

They continued striking at me while I tried to fend them off until they finally gave up after seeing my resilience to not back down.

Ha that’ll teach them, but before they left the noble said that I’ll be seeing him again as if it mattered. Both of us sat there with our back leaning against the wall while I was currently breathing haggardly.

Looking at him, I studied him and found that my earlier statement on his height was accurate as he was short, smaller than the average male. If I didn’t know any better, I would mistake him for someone who’s around 13 years old.

He had short light brown hair and dark brown eyes and was sporting a nasty nosebleed with a few bruises on his gender-neutral face that seemed to lean on feminine.

While I was silently studying his appearance, he asked me a question.

“So are you an idiot or what, you know that since you got involved and defied them then they are going to go after you as well.” (Short Guy)

“Who cares if they do, if I see someone that needs to be protected then I shall answer their call. Also, even if they do, I figured that if we stick together we have better chances against them don’t you think, by the way, my names Lex Speros, it’s good to meet you.” (Lex)

I answered while smiling towards him while I extended my hand in greeting since its only proper to introduce yourself first to start a friendship.

Strangely though I was only greeted with silence from him as he stared blankly at me, strange, I thought that it was proper to introduce yourself first when meeting new people or maybe I was mistaken.

The awkward silence hung in the air for a few moments before it was slowly replaced by growing chuckles from him that gradually evolved into full blown laughter.

“Hey what’s so funny, I thought it was only proper to give my name first!” (Lex)

Even though I felt myself turning slightly red from embarrassment over my potential flop at first impressions, it didn’t stop him from continuing to laugh for a few moments as tears slightly gathered.

“No, No it’s not that. It’s just that I never thought that I would meet someone like you. Even though your reckless and don’t think first about your choices, it strangely feels that if I don’t work at it than I will get pulled along with your rivers current.” (Small guy)

“Hey I rather be reckless and act than cautious and ignore others in need. After all that is my lifestyle as a guy that only uses shields to defend my allies.” (Lex)

Apparently, my statement was once again seen as funny as it was once again greeted by more laughter.

“Your lifestyle as a guy that only uses a shield, you’re not serious right. That is a one way pass to being made fun of in this academy you know that right seeing how its seen as the trend to use either the sword or magic.” (Small Guy)

“I am as serious as the old undead threat, I don’t care if using only a shield is strange or going against common sense, it doesn’t matter to me because if I don’t do it than who will when its needed.” (Lex)

Who cares if using a shield without any means of offense goes against social standards, because that is why I am here, to change that stupid thought pattern that people have towards shield bearers.

“you know what, even though you have nothing to back your thoughts up, I think that that it’s futile to resist going along with your river’s current and it would be better to just let it pull me along.” (Small Guy)

“What’s that supposed to mean exactly, also you never even properly introduced yourself even though I did.” (Lex)

“Well obviously it’s because I didn’t trust you at all, but after hearing what I just did, I think you’re the type of person that I can. Also, I guess now would be a better time than any to introduce myself.” (Small Guy)

After saying that, he picked himself up after placing his hand on his knee to push off while wincing from the pain he must have received to his side. Once he stood up with slight difficulty, he than extended his hand out to me who was still sitting on the ground.

Understanding what he was doing, I went along with it and grabbed his hand and held it tightly as if we were simply shaking hands. Strange thing that I noticed was his has was surprisingly soft and smooth, I guess that is because he is not in the knight’s courses and must be in the mage’s courses.

After I grabbed his hand, he pulled back while he tried to help me up off the ground while he finally introduced himself while he showed the first true smile that I have seen on him so far.

“My name is Florian Arthion, it’s nice to me you Lex, I hope we can be good friends since you suggested that if we stick together we would have a better chance.” (Florian)

Thus, began our long-lasting friendship with each other that even magic wouldn’t be able to break. What we didn’t expect was our new friendship would be tested so quickly by a certain annoying noble.

-Few weeks later-

It’s been a couple weeks since I first befriended Florian and it seems his predictions of those nobles turning their attention on me was in deed correct. So far it has been small things such simple verbal harassment and threats, but aside from that nothing else.

When we befriended each other we both agreed that it would be best to stick together as much as possible and stay in view of the instructors and teachers when we can. While you may think, this was simply us hiding and running from the problem, both of us have been hanging out without even thinking about the problem.

When talking about Florian, I would say that at first, he was more quiet and reserved in what he said, but after the first couple days he quickly opened and chatted more. Both of us found that we enjoyed each other’s company since we had similar drives to pursue our dreams and goals that we found mutual understanding.

I discovered that Florian was indeed studying as a mage and he is interested in anything related to magic or technology. Don’t get me wrong it isn’t on the level of curiosity or interest either, what I mean is if he hears anything about a new magical theory or invention than he will drop everything and lust after it as if its pure gold.

To be honest it’s funny to see since he usually has either a disinterested expression or no expression at all, but when he learns of something new, almost like a mask that falls off, he turns into a completely different person.

I also found that Florian has a unique quirk that I learned of when we went to see one of the instructors that oversaw magic courses related to reinforcement magic.

The instructor was known as being highly skilled in reinforcement magic and he was also once a S rank adventurer back in his younger days.

Also, the adventurers are divided into six rankings with the highest being S rank, after that is A rank, B rank, C rank, D rank, and at the bottom E rank. Extremely detailed and difficult requirements are need to be completed before someone could rise into the S rank so it makes since that the instructor who was a S rank adventurer is obviously strong.

Going back to what I learned about Florian is that when he meets someone who is far stronger than him, he will almost sense it instinctively and begin shaking in fear with little control over his body.

Today was the same as usual for the two of us with the idiotic and failed attempts to harass us from that noble’s goons, but it seems that our laidback attitude that we had annoyed him so much that he decided to get off his prideful ass and harass us personally.

Both Florian and I were currently relaxing outside the school building on a bench under a tree since it was summer and it was hot.

Both of us were causally discussing some points that would help lower the cost and increase the output of the physical reinforcement spell until we were interrupted by you know who.

“So, the peasants are capable of learning from what they are taught. I am honestly surprised that they are even capable of that seeing as they seem capable of herding together in fear of strong.” (Prideful ass)

You know what I learned about most nobles that are like this guy. I learned that while they throw insults towards us so called lower class, we aren’t bothered by it much, but the moment you insult Them in the slightest, than they blow up. Really, they have so little tolerance that a lightweight could handle more if he began drinking highly alcoholic Ale.

“So, the lord of prideful assholes has decided to grace us with his horrid stench after coming down from his high throne, it must be a day of celebration over our misery.” (Lex)

Yes, I said this directly towards a noble and I did it with a big smile on my face which enlisted a chuckle from Florian as well while he began to slightly laugh at the asshole’s face that was rapidly growing redder than the Azure Empires royal bloodlines famous red hair that they are known for having.

“H-how dare you speak to me, Bertrand Methodius like that, do you even know what power I can wield whenever I so desire.” (Bertrand)

“Correction, you can wield that power whenever you want to only in your own country, but here, you carry none of that so-called authority that you got from sucking from your parent’s tits.” (Lex)

I do not understand why there are so many nobles that are like this guy, we I guess that is very subjective and biased since if I look at nobles from either the Azure Empire or the Grand Anthis Kingdom, then the number of nobles that are like him are harder to find here.

It seems that most of the nobles like him come from up further north rather than south, but that is just my own opinion though.

It seems that Florian began snickering from my comment while I was lost in thought for a moment and hearing him laughing at him must have pissed off Bertrand because he practically exploded in anger.

“How dare you continue laughing when you should be licking my shoes you filth.” (Bertrand)

It seems that he went passed verbal insults and changed to getting physical because he pulled his arm pack and aimed at Florian who was still laughing while not noticing the impending attack, but I did notice.

Before his fist could even come close to connecting with Florian’s face, my hand was tightly gripping his wrist and preventing it from moving any further.

“I don’t care if you try to hit me, but if you even think that you would be able to hit my friend while I’m here than you have another thing coming and it won’t end with me punching you once.” (Lex)

“Alright how about this, since you want a fight we’ll give you one. Since you want to attack us why don’t we make it official where punishment won’t happen if caught by having a duel. It will be a simple 2 v 2 duel with the two of us against you and someone else, sound good to you.” (Florian)

“Fine, sounds good. We’ll have it tomorrow at noon and you better not think about wimping out either.” (Bertrand)

After saying that he tried to yank his arm out of my grip which wouldn’t have worked if I didn’t decide to let go since he was incredibly weak compared to me who worked out daily.

After he finally left leaving Florian and I to our business, Florian turned to me.

“Sorry about dragging you in Lex, but that guy has been getting on my nerves for a while and seeing a chance to end it, I took it.” (Florian)

“I’m guessing this chance you speak of is from befriending me and taking the chance you decided to involve me in your problems right.” (Lex)

After I said that, Florian’s eyes rose slightly surprised by what I said before his mask returned and hide his surprise.

“That is correct, while I didn’t befriend you with that in mind I did see the chance to use you to solve my problems by nipping them permanently.” (Florian)

After hearing him confess, the was only one thing that I was currently feeling now from what Florian said.

“You know that you are one of the few that would say that directly to others without any guilt involved.” (Lex)

“I know that, so what.” (Florian)

I couldn’t help it as a smile began to bloom on my face as it spread across my whole face.

“To be honest, I am happy right now that you decided to use me you know.” (Lex)

“Why is that, even though I clear told you that I was using you, most people would be angered about that.” (Florian)

“Well that is true, but even though you said you are using me, it also means that you have trust in me that using me can solve your problems and that makes me happy.” (Lex)

“How did you come to that conclusion Lex.” (Florian)

“who knows, it’s just a feeling that I’m getting so don’t pay it much notice. Aside from that so how are we going to go about this duel, I defend and you attack using magic I assume.” (Lex)

Looking at Florian who was listening to me about our formation began to smile as I spoke.

“That’s right, but do you have faith in your ability to defend me tomorrow.” (Florian)

This time it was my turn to begin smiling from his words as I felt that my confidence rise where I felt that victory was ours and there was no room for failure.

“I have as much confidence in my ability to defend as you do in your ability to hide your emotions behind a mask, that’s why let’s win this and put the arrogant noble in his place.” (Lex)

After that we parted ways as it was almost time for our next classes and decided that we will meet up tomorrow before the time of the duel.

-Day of match-

Right now, Florian and I are currently sitting in a waiting room while the academy’s sparring grounds are set up with magic barriers that will act to prevent any deaths from happening from the headmaster.

I was currently wearing my school uniform, but I didn’t wear the blazer since it would get in the way since its restricting and instead wore a thin shirt. I also wear some tough leather armor that I have had for a while and brought along one of my shields that I decided on using.

Also, just so you know, yes, I do have multiple shields and to be exact, I have about five shields that I own, but the one I chose today was my favorite shield that I owned.

I chose the heater shield today because it was a lightweight shield that could handle some abuse. I picked it because while the coverage area is smaller than some of the other shields, I needed to keep light and mobile to defend Florian from any attacks that come his way and since I could use physical reinforcement, I should be able to handle some damage.

While waiting for an instructor to come and bring us to the arena, Florian began talking to break the silence that was hanging in the air.

“Hey Lex, I have been wondering about this for a while, but why aren’t you scared about facing nobles. I know you would say that if someone needs to be protected than you’ll answer the call, but aren’t you fearful that you could anger them that they go after your family?” (Florian)

“Oh that, I’m not scared of that at all.” (Lex)

“Wha– why not, shouldn’t you want to protect your family from any harm.” (Florian)

“Well that’s just it, you can’t protect people that are already gone.” (Lex)

“Wait you mea–” (Florian)

Before he could ask further the door opened and an instructor entered.

“Are you two ready, the arena is prepared and ready.” (Instructor)

“That’s correct we are ready, right Florian.” (Lex)

I stood up and stretched my arms before picking my shield up that was resting next to me.

“Your right, no time to let myself get distracted. That’s correct we are ready.” (Florian)

After that we were lead down a hallway until we entered through a door into a large open indoor room where the duel will be held.

Looking around the room was a wide circular room that had seating all along the wall that was packed full with students that were noisily talking while watching Florian and me as we entered.

Looking forward I found Bertrand and an unknown guy who was wearing some leather armor just like me and carrying a large Warhammer. The only problem was that the guy was obviously not a student seeing as he’s looks around thirty years old and he was wearing the insignia for the Bellum kingdom.

Why this matters is because any student that attends the academy is told that they are forbidden from wearing any form of insignia or item that carries the symbol of any kingdom or country. This is a rule that is enforced to represent that this is a neutral territory and there is no weight of influence or power from anyone that attends the academy.

“Hey Bertrand, who’s the new guy, because I am positive that he is not a student here.” (Lex)

Hearing what I said when I spoke up, Bertrand began to smile as if he assumed victory was his with arrogant confidence.

“Oh him, don’t mind him. He is just one of my private guards that I brought as my partner since you never specified that this was going to be a match between students only.” (Bertrand)

“Does it really matter since we know that you have no chance of winning right Lex.” (Florian)

“I guess you’re right.” (Lex)

After saying that I moved till I was in front of Florian and stood in a stance while holding my heater shield in front of me while lowering my center of gravity by bending forward slightly and spreading my legs apart while I waited for the signal to begin.

After seeing that both sides ready, the same instructor that led us hear walked between us and our opponents and began running through the basic rules of the duel.

“The rules of the duel are as follow; this match will be between both sides with no outside interference. This match is being overseen by me and the use of underhand means such as use of poison will cause immediate disqualification and punishment. This match will end when one side is either unable to continue fighting or they surrender. Do both sides understand, because if you do than nod your heads.” (Instructor)

After he saw all of us nod our heads in agreement he looked satisfied as he raised his hand high in the air.

“Let this match BEGIN!” (Instructor)

With that it began and the man with the Warhammer rushed towards us. I couldn’t let him get to close to Florian just in case I moved to meet him head on. The problem was that I also couldn’t move away from Florian too far in case I needed to stop any attacks from Bertrand who was apparently also a mage since he brought staff that carried a magic stone for magic.

I quickly invoked physical reinforcement on myself before the large man could get close enough while I stood my ground ready to confront him while I stood around ten feet away from Florian.

When the large man arrived close enough to attack me he lowered his Warhammer so it was on his right side with the head closest to the ground while he was aiming for my left side with and underhand swing.

I obviously knew that taking the Warhammer head on its stupid so I decided to step in closer towards the man so that I could bash him and possibly knock him off balance.

While I knew, I wasn’t a large guy with a heavy build compared to this man with the Warhammer, I did know that when attacking that you will leave an opening that could be used to knock you off balance and break your stance.

As I moved close towards him, his Warhammer was halfway through its swing and the moment that I was about to try knocking him off balance I felt a pain in my right side as I felt myself get pushed back.

What happened? I couldn’t understand what happened until the large man finally spoke.

“You have good instincts kid you know. Most people would try to avoid my Warhammer but you stepped closer to me to knock me off balance, by the way my names James.” (James)

“What did you do just now.” (Lex)

My right side was flaring up with numbing pain as I questioned him, I quickly glanced towards Bertrand and Florian who were firing off magic towards each other that continued canceling each other’s out. Their little battle continued but I noticed that Florian was different than usual.

“I guess you didn’t notice the feint that I did, but I guess it makes sense. Most people don’t expect that you can feint your opponent using a Warhammer. To make it simple when you stepped in towards me while I was mid swing, I forcefully used the pommel of my Warhammer instead to strike your right side, usually this is difficult to do but when your strong enough it gets easier.” (James)

While I head what, he said, my mind was still focused on Florian who wasn’t attacking like he usually does and I should know since I have watched him practice a few times and I ask him to help me train to defend against magic attacks. It should be noted that its possible, but the first few times hurt like hell when I screwed up.

After James explained what he did he once again went on the attack and continued attacking me while I tried to stop him from getting any closer to Florian who was preoccupied facing off with Bertrand. It was obvious that James is highly skilled and experienced because I could clear see that his aim wasn’t me but Florian.

He understood easily that if he takes Florian out that its over since I only have a shield, but I would not allow that to happen. I continued meeting James head on while I continued enduring all his attacks and feints while I shifted his attacks away from me using my shield to shift the force away and not taking it head on. This exchange kept up, but James didn't get agitated like most people by my persistent behavior that continued trying to stop him, but it also didnt help that occasionally some times he breaks through my defense by striking me using his Warhammers pommel or even releasing a hand off the handle and throwing in some punchs at me that I don't see coming.

I also keep throwing glances towards the magic side of the battle where numerous fire balls thrown by Bertrand at Florian but was met with balls of water that extinguished the fire spells. This type of exchange between both sides continued with me doing everything I could to stop James advancement while Florian and Bertrand fired spells at each other, but this didn’t last forever.

I was correct because it seemed that Florian really was different today and wasn’t focused because while he keeps canceling out Bertrand’s attacks, one fire ball finally broke through the stalemate and headed straight for Florian who seemed to not even notice it.

“FLORIAN!” (Lex)

“Wha–?” (Florian)

Damn it, Florian won’t be able to defend against it in time so I quickly moved while turning around to sprint towards Florian.

“Don’t forget about me!” (James)

Crap, I shouldn’t have turned my back because James took advantage of it and was now swinging his Warhammer just like he did the first time he swung it.

I watched as his Warhammer was swinging upward while moving closer towards my side while a fire ball was inching closer and closer towards Florian.

Damn it, think Lex, think! You vowed to be someone who protects so think of a way! Suddenly my mind was reminded of the day, blood and human entrails filling my view along with dead and empty eyes that stared back at me as if mocking me of my sin and my guilt.

As my mind was reminded of this, I remembered when I first befriended Florian and how he smiled for the first time while he helped me up off the ground and then I suddenly thought of a way.

The plan was absolutely reckless and I didn’t even know if it would work since I had no prior practice since it was only a magic theory that Florian and I created.

I calmed my breathing while it felt as if time slowed down to a crawl as I felt my blood pumping as if it was a second from exploding from my body. I closed my eyes as I pictured the spell for physical reinforcement, after that I manipulated my mana that flowed throughout my body while picturing it moving to my arms and to my hands. I used my mana that I flowed to my arms and this began the formation of the magic array, but instead of using the spell on myself, instead I did something different.

When I imagined the desired spell and its effect, I didn’t imagine it reinforcing me but instead my shield. I imagined that it would reinforce my shield and increase its strength and durability as I formed the magic array and when it was complete I lit the flame by supplying it with my mana as fuel and began the chant that was used to properly complete the spell that Florian and I theorized about and gave it a name.

Mana Infusion

Usually physical reinforcement doesn’t have a chant since the spell is strengthening the body with mana temporarily so a chant was unnecessary, but since it wasn’t my body that was reinforced, a chant was needed to be spoken and I knew the words that will give life to the spell that I gave birth two as well as named Mana Infused Reinforcement. I know the name doesn't have any glamour to it but I can't help it if my naming sense sucks so I don't care what others think of it.

[I call upon the strength that lies in mana to heed my call and follow my desires, use the strength you hold and grant my weapon the ability to protect] (Lex)

Once the chant was finished I could see my shield began to glow as sparks flashed around it until finally it began to steadily glow with a bluish aura.

I didn’t let it end there because since I had my back to James who was almost complete with his Warhammers swing. I slowly turned around to face him as if I was desperate to protect myself, because I needed to hit it at the right time, any deviation from that moment by even a second could result in failure.

I watched as the Warhammer inched closer and closer towards my side as the seconds seemed to extend to what felt like hours until it was barely half of an arm’s length away from my chest. At that moment, it was now or never and I made my move that would make even the most reckless of people scold me over its recklessness.

I did what James would ever expect me to do using a heater shield, I moved it so that it would be hit head on by his Warhammer.

Just before the Warhammer contacted my mana infused reinforced shield that I felt as if the spell would give out at any moment, I lifted my legs up to my chest as I held my shield using both my hands to withstand the strike.

My plan clearly shocked James because his face was painted with shock over my movements because he saw what I was going with it and failed to stop his strike as it finally contacted my shield as I could feel a huge smile bloom on my face.

“LIFT OFF!” (Lex)

“What!” (James)

I yelled this the moment his Warhammer met my shield and since I had lifted my legs into the air there wasn’t any resistance from me as I allowed the force of his strike to propel me through the air and right in the path of the fireball that was thrown by Bertrand at Florian.

Since the fire ball was only a tier 2 spell, I could easily block it with no injuries and to be honest, Florian’s tier 2 spells carry more weight and power to them anyways.

While I say that it was easy to block it that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have power to it because I was blown downward towards Florian which made my flight path change from looking like a straight line to what looked like a ‘L’.

When I finally landed messily on my back and slid towards Florian, I could hear the whole room go quiet from my actions until Florian snapped out of it first.

“Wh– what did you just do Lex.” (Florian)

Now that I was laying on my back and my blood calmed down slightly, I could feel pain all over my body and searing pain that came from my right arm. I think I may of either fractured or broken it when I used James Warhammer to propel myself but who could know for sure.

Florian who was shocked by my grand entrance quickly crotched down to me while trying to assess my condition but that doesn’t matter right now. Seeing the chance since he is close to me I used my left arm that didn’t feel as much pain as my right and used it to hit Florian on the head but with my strength right now and the effects of mana exhaustion that came just from one spell taking effect on me it must have felt like a gentle tap.

“You idiot, the whole time you have been acting strange even though you said it was time to focus. Don’t let your thoughts wander from needless things that don't belong here right now. You said that you are using me to help solve your problems so don’t half ass it and instead put everything into it because that is your responsibility you carry.” (Lex)

If you are going to pursue something than you need to be prepared to put everything into it. I remember something my father once said because he was a hunter and said, “When you plan to hunt a small rabbit, hunt it as if you are trying to hunt a dragon.”

“If you plan to hunt a rabbit, plan to hunt it as if you are hunting a dragon. Remember Florian that I promised to defend you with everything I had and stop any harm from getting to you, but do you know why I said this. It’s because I placed my trust and full confidence in you, I trust that I can defend you with everything I have because I trust that you have my back and will handle the offense while I carry the defense.” (Lex)

It seems that James and Bertrand finally snapped out of the shock as James began laughing loudly.

“Amazing kid! Never in my days have I met someone that will do what you just did without fear of possible death. I was right when I said that you have good instincts, but it seems that it cost you too much that you are unable to move much anymore.” (James)

“Hahaha– your right, but while I may be down and out, my best friend here is still standing strong and he has some debts to pay and he hates being in debt to others.” (Lex)

I could see the sight of James who was happily laughing early and Bertrand who was looking as if he won quickly grow pale until they were almost as white as snow.

I guess it is only natural because while I replied towards James about our guaranteed victory Florian had already stood back up with eyes that were full of resolution as his whole body began emitting large amounts of mana that was almost visible to the naked eye although very faintly.

Moments later Florian spoke the chant that would seal our victory tightly like a noose.

[I call upon fire that lies dormant in mana using my own mana as fuel and my words as sparks, ignite with your light and burn away my foes.] (Florian)

After that, a beautiful spectacle was seen as numerous fireballs appeared surrounding Florian and me who was next to him. The amount was insane for most people since it most likely numbered in the hundreds as they softly floated in the air as if saying to me, this is how you truly fly in the air.

It was breathtaking enough that I forgot all the pain in my body while I burned the sight into my mind so that I never forget it. The beautiful sight of balls of fire and burned with abundant life while gently floating with contradiction. The beautiful fire that burned while floating seemed as if you can reach out and hold it without fearing being burn, but at the same time you can't help but understand that the fire can't be underestimated unless you want it to consume you.

The sight of numerous sources of light reminded me of the night sky thats filled with stars, whenever I looked up at night and saw the stars it made me think about all the possibilities in life that rivaled the stars in numbers. I always feel inspired by the stars in the sky as it felt as they can be grabbed so easily but at the same time are to far to reach, just like a dream that someone pursues, just like the dream that I pursue.

“Damn, looks like it’s our loss, isn’t that right milord.” (James)

Even though he sounded calm, I could see his legs shaking rapidly in fear from the scale of Florian’s magic, but I must commend Bertrand on the size of his arrogance because even though the victor was obvious, he refuses to admit it.

“I–I refuse to admit defeat to this peasant, I refus–” (Bertrand)

What caused him to stop mid-sentence was the sight of half of the total number of fireballs that flew towards him where they covered the distance in the time between an eye blinking before stopping inches away from Bertrand.

Seeing the fireballs that we instantly in front of him scared him so much that he flinched back so hard that he fell on his ass while his white pants quickly changed as they got darker while the area expanded and liquid pooled all around him as he pissed himself.

“W-w-we Surrender” (Bertrand)

“The victory goes to the challenged side and Florian Arthion and Lex Speros” (Instructor)

After that while Florian canceled his magic safely, some officials rushed towards me while carrying a stretcher. Once they arrived they assessed my condition while asking me the places it hurt until they finally lifted me and placed me on the stretcher much to my pain and began taking me away, but before I left.

“See you later Florian, I’ll see you in the infirmary, don’t forget to visit.” (Lex)

After that the officials began to transport me back towards the door that we originally entered from as I felt myself blackout finally from the pain.

-Two days later-

When I finally woke up, I found myself staring at the white ceiling before turning my head to the right and seeing empty beds and curtains that were folded between each bed.

I didn’t try to move my body any more than my head because I knew that my body scream in complaint at me from the pain. It sucks that healing magic can’t be used on me since its safer to let my body heal naturally.

I learned in class that healing magic is considered as a double edge sword because while it will heal injuries in only a little amount of time, the only problem lies in what the price calls for.

Healing magic is known as having the heaviest price because while almost every type of magic use mana as fuel, healing magic needs two types of fuel to work. One is of course mana to fuel it but the other is what people call vitality or more specifically it uses the vitality of the one being healed.

While this may should like an easy price to pay since it only uses the bodies energy or vitality to heal it, but think about it. The one thing that an injured person lacks is energy, strength, vitality, whatever you want to call it they just won’t have so what does healing magic use instead.

The answer is the bodies life force as compensation for the fuel when the bodies energy isn't enough, which is why healing magic is never constantly used on people unless the injuries are life threatening or they are soldiers that need to be healed so they can continue fighting on because it shaves away the individual’s lifespan.

I don’t know about you, but I want to live until I see my dream fulfilled so living with some scratches are nothing for me.

I didn’t notice her since I only turned my head right but when she began speaking I could feel my heart jump in my chest from being surprised.

"I see you are finally awake." (???)

When I quickly turned my head to the other side, I could feel my body begin yelling at me from the sudden movement as I winced from the pain.

“Easy now Mr. Speros, you shouldn’t be moving so much with those injuries.” (???)

She ignored my questioning gaze over who she was and continued talking while looking at some papers.

“Two fractured ribs on the right side, broken right forearm along with a hairline fractures on your left forearm as well as on your hairline fractures on your left fibula that resulted from your reckless landing. You know that you are also lucky since you also could have damaged your mana pathways from recklessly invoking that new spell of yours that you created with Mr. Arthion without proper practice or preparation and only using the theory behind it.

You will most likely need to be bedridden for 6-8 weeks to properly heal your ribs, your hairline fractures will take around 10 weeks to heal and even then you will need to avoid putting to much stress on them and your broken right forearm will take anywhere between 12-24 weeks to heal. You need to learn to take better care of your body or else you won't be able to protect anyone when you are bedridden.” (???)

“Wha– how do you know that, who are you.” (Lex)

“Don’t mind me, but it’s obvious for me to know that since I always know what’s happening when you two are practicing and training. Though to be honest I must applaud you since you just technically just created a new spell and it was invoked for the first time in the world.” (???)

“Don’t mind me? How can I when you suddenly appear and act as if you know everything that happens.” (Lex)

Even though my retort made every bit of sense, this woman ignored it without a shred of guilt on her face.

“Be proud that you successfully created a new spell and here’s some advice for you, new spells are like infants, in the beginning they may not be strong or be able to do much, but they can grow and when they do then you will find that they are just like children because they carry so much potential that you never know the heights they can grow to. Continue nurturing that infant and you will learn that it will never leave you and it will open the door to endless possibilities that you could never imagine, good luck and I would appreciate it if you continue taking care of my child.” (???)

“Wha–?” (Lex)

Before I could speak I could hear the door to the infirmary open on my right side. When I immediately began turning my head in the direction of the opening door I saw Florian entering while once again wearing his usual expressionless mask.

“I see you are finally awake, you’ve been asleep for around two days straight. I was beginning to think if my first friend would never wake up forcing me to put you six feet under the earth.” (Florian)

Hearing what he said, I couldn’t help but begin laughing loudly even though it hurt so much with my broken ribs. I couldn’t help it because it was the first time since we met that I heard Florian tell a joke and I found it hilarious that the content of the first joke was about burying me.

Even though I may not know what runs through his mind like during the duel or any other time, I don’t care because while he may hide his emotions behind a mask, I understand that there is a reason for it. I understand that when he wants to, he will tell me so I won’t force the topic now or any time in the future.

I understand this because sometimes you can't put things into words sometimes and stay choose to stay silent, but I also know that sometimes there are things that fear prevents you from speaking about. You continue locking it away deep in your heart as if praying that keeping it their will make you forget about it, but that isn’t true at all.

The deeper you keep memories and feelings in your heart, the easier it is for you to remember it as it grows stronger each passing day without you knowing it, I understand this because I am the same.

“You can’t get rid of me that easily, the day that I die is the day that I can no longer protect others and I can’t do that because if someone needs to be protected than I will answer that call.” (Lex)

This time it was Florian’s turn to laugh from my words, but as he laughed I suddenly remembered the woman that I was previously speaking to.

“Oh yeah, sorry abo– what, she’s gone?” (Lex)

That’s right, the woman who I was previously speaking to was gone as if she was never there leaving me in confusion.

“Who are talking to? Are you sure you didn’t also hit you head adding to the list of all your injuries.” (Florian)

“Forget about it, it was nothing. Must have been a dream or something.” (Lex)

Even though I passed it off as a dream or illusion, I still couldn’t get what she said out of my mind and what did she mean taking care of her child.

I may not know who she was or what for that matter, but I probably won’t forget her that easily when I remember the long pure white hair and bright red eyes that she had because there is no one in this world that I have seen with those two colors, but strangely enough when I first saw her, the first thing I imagined was a white flower.