Anthon and Jayce left, leaving William lost in thought.
If his current technique guaranteed reaching 5 points in his stats, this new set promised a brutal growth.
But what he couldn't get out of his mind were Jayce's final words:
"Where you're going, don't forget that the body is just as important as everything else. Don't fall into the mistake of thinking otherwise."
William frowned. No matter how much he tried, he couldn't find a clear answer.
He decided to let it go for now and headed to the cafeteria—his stomach growling, reminding him it was time to eat.
At the cafeteria, his comrades immediately surrounded him with questions, trying to pry any secret out of him about what Anthon and Jayce had told him.
William, calm as ever, simply replied:
—Nothing important.
They didn't insist. Although curiosity burned in their eyes, they knew better than to press him.
That afternoon, the group made their way to the literature hall, where Professor Aurus awaited them.
With his usual impassive expression, Aurus announced:
—As of today, classes are over. From now on, you'll have to learn on your own. That too will be part of your evaluation.
Report tomorrow at dawn... except for you, William. Stay behind.
Everyone left silently. No one questioned the order. They all knew William was something of a protégé of Aurus.
—Come. Let's go to my study —the professor said firmly.
They walked together through the stone hallways.
With each step, William could feel Aurus' pressure growing stronger.
If before it felt like standing before a massive storm, now it was like gazing upon an endless ocean: overwhelming, unfathomable.
Once they arrived at the study, Aurus lit a small burner and began to prepare his special tea, releasing a powerful aroma of unknown herbs.
—You've done well, boy. You haven't disappointed this old man —he said while stirring the steaming water—. Though I'll be honest... I was ready to buy your contract if you lost. That way I could've protected you —as long as you survived, of course.
Those words struck something deep within William's hardened heart.
—You see, there are things I haven't told you.
I had already considered you a candidate for the academy I come from.
But you still needed to pass the exams. After all, I'm just a professor.
I have some prestige, yes, but not enough to bend the rules at will.
Aurus paused, searching for the right words.
Then, he continued:
—The academy you'll be attending is called Black Rock.
We are part of the Bloodclaw Alliance.
We specialize in black magic and combat magic.
Our alliance dominates much of this ocean, and we are one of the four alliances with bases in this part of the continent.
The professor settled into his chair, his expression serious.
—Remember the first rule of the magical world: "Equivalent Exchange."
Whatever you are given, it will never be free.
You might wonder why I'm telling you all this… and what I expect from you in return.
William listened silently, tense but attentive.
Aurus stood up, walked to a shelf, and retrieved a small leather pouch before sitting back down with a soft sigh.
—Two days ago, when we discovered that spell, I managed to activate it... I entered a special state that repaired my soul enough to heal my wounds.
I have regained my former level. I am now once again a Level 2 Mage.
William's mind quickly pieced everything together.
The pressure he felt wasn't his imagination: Aurus' power had grown dramatically.
—I have already sent a letter to the academy. I'll be allowed to return immediately.
My replacement will arrive a little later.
I owe you a great deal, William. More than you realize.
The old professor lowered his gaze, his voice sincere.
—For now, I can't give you anything substantial.
But once we are aboard the ship, I will hand you some things... and at the academy, I will make sure to repay you fully for any favor.
I am greatly indebted to you.
William quickly tried to refuse, saying it wasn't necessary, that he was just doing his part.
But Aurus cut him off with a raised hand.
—No discussions.
We'll talk more later.
For now, you must prepare yourself. Tomorrow, you will help me with the evaluations.
And one more thing...
Aurus' voice became harsher, almost personal:
—Stay away from Rose.
William blinked, surprised.
—She doesn't deserve your affection.
Find someone your own age, boy.
To her... you are nothing more than a distraction.
Even if you wanted to bring her along, it wouldn't be allowed. New recruits aren't permitted to bring companions.
And to be honest... if she came, she would die.
You'll soon realize just how cruel the path you've chosen truly is.
William clenched his fists silently.
He didn't respond —only nodded— knowing that once again, his life was about to change forever.