Windslash E-Book

Chris Bennett

• Herausgeber: Grosvenor House Publishing
• Kategorie: Fantasy und Science-Fiction
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 355

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

10,000 years ago. On a mythical island. Where powerful magic exists that is destined to be lost to the seas. Timaeus is a Wind Student, training to be a Wind Elemental. It is through an extraordinary anomaly that it is discovered he can use more than Wind Magic, this marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure as he learns the extent of his abilities. The Dark Elementals, malevolent and monstrous warriors, corrupted by Dark Magic, seek to revive a great evil that was sealed away long ago. After centuries of waiting they put their plan into motion, they invade Atlantis causing a war to break out, slaughtering Atlantis' forces to find what they need to revive the great evil. At the climax of the war, Timaeus has to do everything in his power to protect the world from the great evil his enemies intend to unleash. With no friends or allies by his side to help him stop his enemies and with the island sinking to the bottom of the ocean, before Timaeus confronts the Dark Elementals he uses a form of Magic to determine the outcome. Unbeknownst to him despite what he sees, the battle is far from over. After facing the Dark Elementals in a final battle, Timaeus and his arch-nemesis are trapped inside a Magic Crystal which is found 10,000 years later in the present day. The Last Elemental is a character-driven epic fantasy action forged in a thrilling, absorbing, and attractive plot that reaches into the fate of a mythical world.

Leseprobe

Contents

Preface, Acknowledgements, and Introduction

Chapter One: Legend of the Elementals

Chapter Two: Hidden Power

Chapter Three: Phaedo’s Successor

Chapter Four: Battle in the Courtyard

Chapter Five: The Dark Elemental

Chapter Six: The Royal Court

Chapter Seven: The Valley

Chapter Eight: The Mountain

Chapter Nine: Flame Wind

Chapter Ten: The Labyrinth

Chapter Eleven: Sandstorm

Chapter Twelve: Earth and Thunder

Chapter Thirteen: The Lake

Chapter Fourteen: Wind Mist

Chapter Fifteen: For What Lies Ahead

Chapter Sixteeen: The War of Atlantis

Chapter Seventeen: Duel on a Vanishing Island

Chapter Eighteen: 10,000 Years Later

Copyright

Preface, Acknowledgements, and Introduction

Since I was kid, I’ve been into Trading Card Games, and Mythology from around the world. It was many years ago whilst playing a Trading Card Game that I came up with the idea for this novel, and with Atlantis being my favourite myth I decided to use it as the setting for the story. Unfortunately, when I first started writing it, the laptop, I was using was damaged, and I was only able to salvage so much of it, which put me off writing it, and it got put aside for many years until last year when I decided to finish it.

I’d like to thank my friends who I used to play against in the Trading Card Game that gave me the initial inspiration for this story. I’d like to thank who convinced me to finish the book. I’d like to thank those who took the time to beta read the manuscript. I’d like to thank my hometown, who gave me inspiration for this story, and more to come.

I’ve started by creating a world that exists in Greek Mythology, but in a future story I’d like to bring the remainders of this world into the present day. I hope you find yourself captivated by this world, and as gripped as anyone else who has read it, and enjoy the journey within it as much as I’ve enjoyed creating it.

Chapter One

Legend of the Elementals

Long ago, when Atlantis thrived above the seas, the earth was calm, volcanoes lay dormant, and the winds were mere gentle breezes. Four great warriors lived during this time, each possessing the ability to control one of the four Elements: Water, Earth, Fire, and Wind. They resided on the legendary island filled with lush forests, surrounded by crystal-clear waters that made the inhabitants believe the ocean was bottomless. Peace reigned supreme until a power-hungry Archmage, convinced he was the true ruler of Atlantis, brought this era to an end.

For years, the Archmage served alongside the Atlantean King, using his Dark Magic to manipulate and poison the King’s mind. His ultimate goal was to overthrow the King and take control of Atlantis. However, his treachery was uncovered by a young member of the Royal Guard. This brave guard severed the Archmage’s staff with his sword, knocking it from his hand and neutralising the spell he had cast over the King. With his plan exposed, the Archmage was forced to flee the Royal City. Before his departure, he vowed that he would one day seek his revenge.

The Archmage went into hiding, gathering followers to seek revenge against the Atlantean Kingdom. Power-hungry as he was, the Archmage and his followers travelled through Atlantis for years; using the Dark Magic he taught them, they hunted down and exterminated those they deemed inferior. Their ultimate goal of overthrowing the Atlantean Kingdom led them to revive a great evil that had long been thought destroyed by Atlantis’ ancestors: Leviathan. A sea serpent of darkness and malevolence that left chaos in its wake. Wherever it encountered peace, it left destruction. Leviathan brought nothing but devastation and misery to the legendary island, resulting in the loss of a significant portion of Atlantis’ population.

All hope seemed lost for Atlantis until a miracle occurred. It wasn’t until four exceptionally skilled warriors, each hailing from a different corner of Atlantis, stepped forward that the Atlanteans even realised they had a chance. Each warrior possessed the ability to control one of the four elements. Armed with their magical powers, they took it upon themselves to combat Leviathan in hopes of defeating the Sea Serpent.

Using their Element Magic, the four warriors fought back against the Sea Serpent. Despite Leviathan’s might, it was unable to harm them. However, the warriors soon realised that, individually, their Element Magic was not enough to bring down the Sea Serpent, which was preparing to strike back with one final attack.

In a desperate last effort, the four warriors combined their powers into a single, powerful spell, merging the four elements into one formidable attack.

As the Sea Serpent launched its attack, the four warriors executed a coordinated counterattack, halting the creature in its tracks and temporarily stunning it. In that crucial moment, the Atlantean King seized a powerful weapon that had been locked away in the Royal Vault for generations—the Sword of Arcana. He charged forward, and the Sea Serpent barely had time to react before the sword struck it down.

What should have been the end turned out to be only the beginning; Leviathan survived. To prevent Leviathan from rising again and bringing more pain to Atlantis, the Atlantean King cast a powerful spell to seal Leviathan’s power within four magical artefacts known as the Dragon Crests. These four Crests were infused with powerful Magic to help keep Leviathan’s power contained, and they were entrusted to the four warriors for protection. The Dragon’s Eye Crest was given to the Warrior of Wind, the Dragon’s Fang Crest to the Warrior of Water, the Dragon’s Claw Crest to the Warrior of Fire, and the Dragon’s Horn Crest to the Warrior of Earth.

Leviathan was sealed away inside a Magic Urn for eternity, and the four warriors were tasked with guarding the Dragon Crests. Atlantis survived, and the four warriors were looked upon as heroes. Each warrior wore their corresponding Crest around their neck as a symbol of Leviathan’s defeat. However, what initially seemed like a small price for victory, the truth was that they had no choice. It was the only way to ensure that the Archmage and his followers could not get their hands on the Dragon Crests.

The spell placed upon the Dragon Crests by the Atlantean King ensured that Leviathan’s power could not be unleashed if the Crest was taken by force or stolen. Its power could only be released if the Crest was willingly handed over by its guardian or if the guardian was killed. However, the King vowed to relieve the four warriors of the Dragon Crests once the Archmage had been brought to justice. The four of them knew better but were proud to serve their kingdom.

As a final precaution ordered by the Atlantean King, the Magic Urn containing Leviathan was sealed in a deep area of the Royal Vault. Only a member of the Royal Family could unlock the Magic Seal. Additionally, the King ordered the destruction of the Sword of Arcana and any scrolls detailing how to forge the weapon. This measure ensured that such a powerful weapon would not fall into the wrong hands. The four warriors went on to serve as the protectors of Atlantis and the Atlantean Kingdom, keeping the lands safe and unharmed.

Due to their magical abilities, the people of Atlantis referred to the four warriors as the Element Warriors, while others called them the Elemental Knights. Ultimately, they became known collectively as The Elementals. While residing in Atlantis, The Elementals encountered others who, like them, possessed the power to control an element. Taking it upon themselves to protect the lands, The Elementals decided to train these young warriors.

The students learned how to harness and control their magical abilities, as well as how to synchronise their Magic with the weapons they wielded. Once trained to the point where they could defend themselves and others in battle, the students earned the title of an Elemental.

Wind Elementals wield twin short swords as their primary weapons. They are trained in both swordsmanship and the application of their Wind Magic in combat. With their magical abilities, Wind Elementals can create powerful gusts of wind, glide through the air using currents, and extract air from an area to generate tornadoes and blasts of wind as fierce as a storm. Their combat style is characterised by speed and devastation, as they can infuse their swords with Wind Magic, releasing it as a blade of energy capable of cutting through anything.

Wind Elementals reside in Eastern Atlantis, inhabited by the island’s master weaponsmiths. Many of the most powerful weapons forged on the island come from Eastern Atlantis, including some that are used by the Royal Family themselves.

Water Elementals wield trident staves as their primary weapons. Their battle tactics are heavily reliant on water, thanks to their exceptional swimming skills. The Water Magic they possess enables them to breathe underwater and manipulate water at will. They can freeze water or turn it into mist for cover while engaging in battles on the surface. Additionally, these Elementals can use their powers to heal injuries and purify water.

Water Elementals reside in Western Atlantis, a region inhabited by magical practitioners known as Seers. Seers have the unique ability to foresee the future. While some individuals are naturally gifted with this ability, others cultivate it by drinking from an Enchanted Chalice. However, it is important to note that what the Seers perceive in their visions is not necessarily a definite future. The most crucial lesson for Seers practising foresight is to differentiate between what they see in their visions—what can happen—and what will actually happen.

Earth Elementals were formidable hand-to-hand fighters. Their Earth Magic made their skin as hard as stone, providing them with resistance to all forms of Element Magic, except for Water Magic. This Magic also granted them immense strength. In combat, Earth Elementals could manipulate sand, soil, and stone against their opponents. They had the ability to create earthquakes and fissures and even transform the ground beneath them into quicksand at will.

Earth Elementals resided in Southern Atlantis, where the inhabitants were skilled armorsmiths. They forged armour strong enough to withstand magical attacks. Some of this armour was as simple as an Enchanted Medallion.

Fire Elementals wielded broadswords in battle and were also skilled archers. With their Fire Magic, they could manipulate and create fire at will. They had the ability to ignite the blades of their swords, and when they were running low on arrows, they could create fire arrows using their Magic.

Fire Elementals resided in Northern Atlantis, a region known for its practice of various forms of Magic, including Magic Staves, Spell Books, Magic Items, Potions, and Wands. While Dark Magic was generally frowned upon, the Mages recognised the importance of studying it in order to understand the nature of it and combat its dangers.

Central Atlantis was the home of the Royal Family. It was part of a vast empire known for its magical qualities, which granted great power and extended the lives of its inhabitants. The Elementals collaborated with the Mages of North Atlantis, who supported them in combat by crafting magical items for battle. Additionally, the Mages were also skilled scientists, infusing Magic into the weapons produced in Eastern Atlantis and the armour made in Southern Atlantis. They also developed various utilities for the civilian population.

The magical items created by the Mages for The Elementals and those they trained for battle included several essential tools. These items consisted of Magic Dust, which could inflict various ailments on enemies. The most common type of dust induced sleep, allowing battles to end before they even began.

They also developed Magic Potions to treat injuries, especially in situations where a Water Elemental was either unavailable or when the injuries were too severe.

Additionally, there were Magic Gems that produced a small light to signal the user’s location or emitted a blinding flash for either a pre-emptive strike or a quick escape.

Finally, they developed an item known as a Teleport Rune that enabled the user, along with several others, to magically teleport from one area to another, particularly when the destination was far from their current location, and reinforcements were needed.

By studying the Elementals and their student’s abilities, the Mages of North Atlantis were able to create a powerful item known as the Element Stone. These stones were crafted from magical minerals found throughout the four corners of the Atlantean Empire and were forged in four distinct colours: Blue, Gold, Red, and Green. Element Stones bestowed unique abilities upon their users and enhanced their Element Magic. Obtaining an Element Stone represented the final trial for an Element Student before being promoted to an Elemental. Once a student was promoted, the Element Stone was worn as either a necklace or a bracelet.

These powerful substances were challenging to handle, requiring intensive training for their use. While an Element Stone could elevate a user’s magical abilities to new heights, it also had the potential to backfire, resulting in dangerous and disastrous consequences. This could put not only the user at risk but also others around them, affecting them physically, mentally, or both. Consequently, although their training as students was complete, their journey as Elementals was only just beginning.

The effects of an Element Stone are temporary; once its powers are neutralised, it turns into a clear stone and becomes useless until its Magic recharges over time and it regains its colour.

Blue Element Stones were utilised by Water Elementals. A Blue Element Stone granted the Water Elemental, wearing it, the ability to walk on water, enabling them to engage in combat both above and below the surface. With advanced-level training, a Blue Element Stone could enhance a Water Elemental’s Magic to the point where they could shapeshift into the bodies of water they were in contact with. This capability made Water Elementals excellent spies and provided them with significant opportunities for pre-emptive strikes, as they could still hear their surroundings while transformed into water. Additionally, they could co-exist within larger bodies of water.

With master-level training, a Blue Element Stone enhances a Water Elemental’s Magic to a point where the user can shapeshift into water without needing to be in contact with it, all while maintaining their physical form. This ability also increases both offensive and defensive capabilities but comes with significant risks. If the user’s body mass becomes dispersed while using this magical ability, only the Element Stone will remain. The stone will draw back the dispersed body mass, allowing the user to reform their body. However, if the Element Stone runs out of Magic or is destroyed before the user’s body has fully reformed, it would cost the user their life.

Gold Element Stones were utilised by Earth Elementals. A Gold Element Stone enabled an Earth Elemental to become one with the earth itself, allowing them to transform into sand, soil, or even stone. With advanced-level training, a Gold Element Stone could significantly enhance an Earth Elemental’s magic, granting them the ability to leave their opponents Earthbound by binding them to a source of earth. However, this power came at a cost: restraining their opponents required the users’ concentration, leaving them vulnerable and unable to defend themselves.

With master-level training, a Gold Element Stone can enhance an Earth Elemental’s Magic to a point where the user can render their opponents Earthbound without needing to concentrate on them. This allows the user to defend themselves and continue fighting. However, the power of the Element Stone depletes faster with each opponent made Earthbound. Once the Element Stone exhausts its Magic or the user’s concentration wavers, any enemies that were made Earthbound will be released.

Red Element Stones were used by Fire Elementals. A Fire Elemental wearing a Red Element Stone became immune to fire. With advanced-level training, a Red Element Stone enhanced a Fire Elemental’s Magic, allowing the user to increase their power when near multiple Red Element Stones. With master-level training, a Red Element Stone could elevate a Fire Elemental’s Magic to the point where they could gain strength from being close to multiple Element Stones, regardless of their colour.

As their Magic grew stronger, Fire Elementals could not only transform their weapons into fire but could also turn themselves into fire. However, this high level of Magic is very dangerous. If the Element Stone runs out of Magic, the user loses their immunity to fire, making them vulnerable to their own flames. This could result in severe burns, which may be potentially life-threatening.

Green Element Stones were utilised by Wind Elementals. However, these stones could not allow their users to transform into wind itself due to its inherent instability. If a Wind Elemental attempted to become wind, their body would not be able to reform, leading to their demise. Instead, a Green Element Stone granted the Wind Elemental, wearing it, access to a form of Magic that enhanced their stamina in battle.

With advanced-level training, a Green Element Stone could elevate a Wind Elemental’s Magic to the point where they became stronger even when their stamina was low. This meant that, despite feeling fatigued, they could still effectively fight back. Upon reaching master-level training, the Magic provided by a Green Element Stone enabled Wind Elementals to harness the power of thunder by manipulating electrical currents in the air. This ability allowed them to charge their weapons with thunder and generate strikes to attack their enemies.

This Magic could be so potent that it seemed as though the users were summoning thunder from the heavens to strike down upon their foes, potentially taking out most, if not all, of them, depending on the strength of the opponents they faced. However, utilising this powerful Magic would deplete the Element Stone’s energy more quickly, resulting in the loss of the stamina boost once the stone’s Magic was exhausted.

Despite years of searching, the Archmage was nowhere to be found, and his followers, known as the Acolytes, continued to torment the Atlantean Empire. An attack on Northern Atlantis brought the Acolytes before a group of Elementals, who fought back to prevent them from causing harm. However, one of the Acolytes destroyed several phials of Magic Dust, creating problems for both sides. Taking advantage of the chaos, this Acolyte stole a crucial item and presented it to the Archmage, who had been hiding in disguise among the Acolytes or his victims.

The item he presented was a Teleport Rune, which the Archmage needed to return to the Royal City. Gathering his strongest Acolytes, the Archmage used the Teleport Rune to infiltrate the Royal City, where they ambushed the Royal Guard. Their use of Dark Magic resulted in several casualties during the assault.

Using the cover of his magical disguises, the Archmage made his way to the throne room inside the Royal Court while his Acolytes engaged the Royal Guard and several Elementals. He planned to exact his long-promised revenge on the Atlantean King.

Upon entering the throne room, the Archmage was confronted by several members of the Royal Guard and Elementals, all of whom he subdued with his Dark Magic. The final obstacle in his path was the King’s personal bodyguard, who happened to be the same young guard that had exposed the Archmage all those years ago.

Harbouring a grudge against the young warrior for thwarting his plans, the Archmage knocked him aside with his Dark Magic and began to torture him while simultaneously holding the King in place to deal with him later.

Despite the Archmage’s immense power, the young warrior managed to resist his Magic, thanks to the armour he wore, which had been forged in Southern Atlantis. After knocking the King’s bodyguard aside, the Archmage intended to take his revenge on the King. However, just then, a group of Elementals materialised in the throne room through a Teleport Rune. These Elementals were the same ones attacked by the Archmage’s Acolytes in Northern Atlantis.

The Archmage used his Dark Magic to strike at the Elementals, and the King’s bodyguard seized the opportunity and captured the Archmage. Using one of the Archmage’s own creations—a pair of enchanted shackles designed for the Royal Guard—he was able to restrain him. These shackles were specifically made to capture and restrain magic users by neutralising their abilities, rendering the Archmage completely powerless.

The Archmage originally created the shackles to easily eliminate anyone who practised Magic and was deemed a threat to him. At the time, he still had influence over the Atlantean King, but due to his arrogance, he never considered that the shackles would one day be used against him. With the Archmage restrained and his Acolytes defeated, the King sentenced them all to imprisonment for the rest of their lives. They were confined to a secure prison built by Southern Atlantis, where their Magic would be rendered useless.

On their way to imprisonment, the Archmage caught sight of an Enchanted Chalice. While the guards were distracted by opening the door to the prison, the Archmage seized the opportunity. He grabbed it and took a drink but suddenly collapsed to the floor, overwhelmed by a vision triggered by the chalice.

A smile spread across the Archmage’s face as he began to laugh menacingly. He proclaimed to those around him that this was not the end and that one day, Leviathan would rise again. Unfortunately, the strain on his body led to a fatal heart attack. Despite his life coming to an end, he lay there with a smile on his face.

Despite the Archmage’s death, the Elementals refused to relinquish the Dragon Crests as long as there was anyone capable of restoring Leviathan and fulfilling the Archmage’s prophecy. Vowing upon their honour and lives, the Elementals pledged to protect the Atlantean Empire and all its inhabitants. They committed themselves to safeguarding everyone from those who practised the Dark Arts, which were believed to have been eradicated when the Archmage died.

The first four Elementals who initially appeared could not train their students indefinitely. Eventually, they chose a single student as their heir and successor, tasked with becoming the next guardian of their Dragon Crest. This successor would continue training new students to become Elementals and help defend Atlantis after the predecessor passed on. When the time came for the Elementals to find an heir and successor, their Dragon Crest would begin to glow when a worthy candidate was found, signalling that this individual would be the one to take on the responsibility of guarding the Dragon Crest and training Atlantis’ forces.

Generation after generation, four new Elementals were chosen to guard the Dragon Crests. Eventually, the Dragon’s Fang Crest passed into the Royal Family with each new King of Atlantis, strengthening the bond between Central Atlantis and Western Atlantis. Over time, the Archmage’s prophecy began to fade into legend; some believed it to be the mere ramblings of an old man on his deathbed. The Seers, who never witnessed the prophecy in their visions, dismissed it as something that could happen rather than something that would happen. However, the Elementals were unwilling to take any risks until they were certain that Leviathan could not be revived.

However, something was approaching that would cause the city of Atlantis to be lost to the seas forever...

“Now, my students,” said a man dressed in an emerald green robe, “we will be practising our defensive skills today. Master Byrne has kindly brought his students, who will practice their offensive skills to provide balance.” The man in the emerald green robe wore the Dragon’s Eye Crest around his neck, while Master Byrne, in his crimson red hooded robe, displayed the Dragon’s Claw Crest. The Wind Students were dressed in seafoam green garments, and the Fire Students wore tiger orange clothing.

“Thank you, Master Phaedo,” said Master Byrne as he stepped forward, pulling down the hood of his robe. “Now!” he exclaimed in a strict tone. “Your training today is simple: each of my students will pair up with one of Master Phaedo’s students. My students will attack with their Fire Magic, and Master Phaedo’s students will defend with their Wind Magic. Neither I nor Master Phaedo want to see any soft shit here today. One student will attack while the other defends; it’s not going to be one student attacking while the other falls down. Now, I don’t know what the fuck is going on around here, but if any of you students hope to become Wind Elementals or Fire Elementals anytime soon, you need to start pulling your shit together, especially you Wind Students. Me and the other masters have already found our successors to guard the Dragon Crests, so it’s about time a successor was found to guard the Dragon’s Eye Crest. Now, are you ready?!”

The students replied in a loud and frightened tone, “Yes, Master Byrne!”

After getting his message across, Master Byrne shouted, “Pair up and begin!” All the students paired up and scattered around the training arena except for one young boy. Master Phaedo and Master Byrne began to walk around the arena.

“I don’t understand, Phaedo,” said Master Byrne. “Why do you have to be so soft with your students and not stricter?”

Master Phaedo replied, “Because, Byrne, despite the emotions involved, Wind Magic requires a calm mind, which is what makes it difficult to master. One needs to maintain a calm mind in any given situation when using Wind Magic, unlike your fire students who are... shall we say, hotheads.”

Master Byrne shook his head. “Hehehe,” he chuckled. “Phaedo, you’re so full of shit. I remember when you were a Wind Student; you were creating twisters by the time you were a teenager.”

Master Phaedo sighed deeply. “I know,” he replied. “But it wasn’t until I achieved a calm mind that those twisters became tornadoes. Even my master was strict with me about that.”

Master Byrne then stopped and turned toward his friend. “Exactly,” he said, pointing across the training arena. “See young Hermocrates over there?” He gestured to a young girl in scarlet red robes, one of the fire students. “The Dragon’s Claw Crest chose her as my successor two years ago, and she wouldn’t be where she is today if I had been calm and soft with her. She’s close to gaining her Element Stone.”

Master Phaedo interrupted, “Alright, alright. You’ve made your point. However, if I boost the strictness, you’ll need to cut down on the bragging.”

Master Byrne placed a hand on Master Phaedo’s shoulder, chuckling as he patted his friend. “Good man, Phaedo... good man.” The two friends turned their attention back to their students. Unbeknownst to them, a young boy sat just a few meters away without a training partner. Meanwhile, the Dragon’s Eye Crest around Master Phaedo’s neck was slightly glowing.

Chapter Two

Hidden Power

Master Phaedo and Master Byrne continued to observe their students as they trained. Master Byrne was not impressed with what he saw. “Do you see what I mean, Phaedo?” he said in a disappointed tone, shaking his head from side to side. “If your students don’t step up their game, all we’re going to get are these shitty results. Despite using their Wind Magic to defend themselves, my students are still managing to knock them back.”

Master Phaedo explained, “It’s because their minds are not calm.” Master Byrne looked at his friend with confusion. “They’re scared of the Fire Magic being used by your students, which is preventing them from calming their minds.” Unable to believe what he was hearing, Master Byrne let out a frustrated “Tch.” Just then, he turned his head and noticed a young wind student who hadn’t found a partner to train with.

“Hey!” Master Byrne shouted, startling the boy and making him jump to his feet. “Yes, Master Byrne,” the young boy replied in a frightened tone. “What’s your name, and why aren’t you participating in this training exercise?” Master Byrne asked angrily. The young boy stood there trembling. “Master Byrne, my name is Timaeus,” he responded. “I didn’t have anyone to partner with, Master.”

With a disappointed look on his face, Master Byrne raised his arm and pointed toward the other students. “Well, why didn’t you work alongside one of your fellow students and take turns in the training exercise?” he inquired. Still trembling, Timaeus replied, “Because... the thought never occurred to me, Master Byrne.”

Master Phaedo spoke up in Timaeus’ defence. “Surely it was just a simple mistake, Byrne,” he said.

Master Byrne turned to Master Phaedo with a stern expression. “Fucking slacking if you ask me, Phaedo. It seems to me that young Timaeus needs to learn the importance of keeping up with his training,” he said firmly. He grabbed Timaeus by the arm and pulled him toward the other students.

“ATTENTION!” Master Byrne shouted, and the entire training arena fell silent. “It appears that Master Phaedo and I have encountered a little shit who thinks it’s acceptable to slack off and neglect his training. As punishment, young Timaeus here will face my successor in combat.”

Byrne’s words sent chills down the spines of the other students; even Hermocrates looked surprised. Timaeus, however, was utterly petrified.

“Please, Byrne, I must object to this,” Master Phaedo said, his voice filled with concern.

“Do not make Timaeus face Hermocrates; she has much more experience than he does, and we both know he’s no match for her.” Master Byrne turned to Master Phaedo and said, “Don’t worry, Phaedo. Given that every other student here has been training hard, it wouldn’t be fair to have Timaeus face any of them. He’s at full strength due to his slacking, which would give him an unfair advantage. This sparring session is just to help Timaeus catch up. If he can outlast Hermocrates, I’ll overlook his slacking. However, if he doesn’t, he will face the consequences of being singed by Hermocrates.”

Master Phaedo then asked, “Is that really necessary, Byrne?” In a firm tone, Master Byrne replied, “It’s better than being singed by me. Plus, this is to ensure that slacking doesn’t happen again. Now, Timaeus and Hermocrates, make your way to the centre of the training arena. The rest of you, go to the edges of the arena.”

With an embarrassed expression on his face, Timaeus entered the arena, followed by Hermocrates, who maintained an emotionless demeanour. Once they reached the centre of the training arena, Timaeus spoke softly, “Hi, my name’s Timaeus.”

Hermocrates turned to him, her gaze intense. “Hi, my name’s Hermocrates, but my friends call me Hermos,” she replied. Timaeus extended his hand for a friendly handshake. “Pleased to meet you, Hermos,” he said.

However, Hermos drew her sword and curtly responded, “I said, my friends.” Timaeus felt hurt by her words.

“Timaeus!” Master Byrne shouted. “Draw your weapons. This isn’t for making friends; this is punishment.”

Timaeus quickly reached for his swords. “Yes, Master Byrne,” he replied.

Master Byrne raised his hand. “Now!” he shouted. “If Timaeus can last five minutes against Hermocrates, he will be excused from slacking. However, if he is unable to last the full five minutes, he will be singed by Hermocrates for every minute he fails to endure.” With that, Master Byrne lowered his hand and shouted, “BEGIN!”

Hermos made the first move, raising her sword and swinging it downward toward Timaeus. He raised both of his swords to defend himself, but when he tried to counterattack with his second sword, his lack of confidence held him back. This allowed Hermos to defend herself and knock Timaeus back.

A fierce sword duel began, with Timaeus using the advantage of his two swords to block Hermos’ incoming attacks. However, he struggled to find an opening in her defence due to his lack of experience.

Despite the circumstances, the spectators were surprised at how well Timaeus was managing to defend himself. “Timaeus seems to be doing quite well,” said Master Phaedo. Master Byrne turned his head towards him and replied, “He’s performing much better than I anticipated,” before turning back to the action. “However, so far, Hermos hasn’t really tried. The little shit doesn’t know what he’s in for.” This caused a worried expression to cross Master Phaedo’s face.

Timaeus was still maintaining his defence when suddenly Hermos stopped her attack. “You do realize I’ve been holding back this entire time,” she said. Timaeus looked back at her with a surprised expression. “Huff... huff... What?” he gasped, catching his breath. Hermos then glanced at a fire torch at the edge of the training arena. She raised her hand and said, “Éla Fotiá,” summoning the fire from the torch into her palm.

Hermos positioned the flame to her sword and recited, “Anáflexi Lepídas,” igniting the blade. Timaeus could hardly believe his eyes. “Now it’s time we start getting serious,” Hermos declared. She launched a renewed assault, making things increasingly challenging for Timaeus as the fire on her sword hampered his defence. The heat affected the metal of his swords and made it difficult for him to grip them securely.

“Éla Fotiá!” Hermos shouted, conjuring fire from another torch into her free hand. She then raised her hand toward Timaeus and yelled, “Ékrixi Flógas,” sending a blast of flame in his direction. In response, Timaeus called out, “Ánodos Anémou Fterón!” using his Wind Magic to defend himself. However, his defence was insufficient, and he was struck by Hermos’ Magic, knocking him backwards onto the ground and causing him to drop his swords.

Timaeus brought himself to his knees but couldn’t find the strength to get back up. “That’s three minutes,” said Master Byrne. “So Timaeus will be singed twice... Hermos, continue.”

Hermos raised her sword and said, “Éla Fotiá,” drawing flames from its blade. Then she shouted, “Ékrixi Flógas!” sending the fire toward Timaeus. “AAARGH!” Timaeus screamed as the flames struck his back. Hermos invoked the spell, “Éla Fotiá,” again to draw out more fire from her sword. She stood ready to singe Timaeus a second time.

“Did you actually think you stood a chance against me?” Hermos asked. “You’re always gonna remain the same pathetic piece of shit you are now.” Unbeknownst to anyone in the training arena, Hermos’ words fueled Timaeus with rage. “Ékrixi Flógas!” Hermos shouted, sending the flame from her hand towards Timaeus.

Just then, Timaeus grabbed his swords and sprang to his feet, much to everyone’s amazement. In a fit of rage, he swung his swords around and shouted, “Anáflexi Lepídas!” causing the blades to ignite. The entire training arena couldn’t believe their eyes.

Fueled by anger, Timaeus swung his right sword and shouted, “Lepída Flógas!” sending a blade of fire towards Hermos. She dodged the fiery attack, but Timaeus quickly swung his left sword, again shouting, “Lepída Flógas!” This time, the blade of fire struck Hermos, knocking her to the ground.

Master Byrne watched in awe, but he wasn’t pleased that his successor-to-be had been taken down. “Hermos, get up!” he shouted.

“Don’t let yourself be knocked over by that fucking little slacker..., finish him!” Master Phaedo shockingly reacted, “What the fuck are you doing, Byrne?” He asked. Master Byrne turned towards Master Phaedo and replied strictly, “After what we just saw..., I wanna see what this little shit is capable of.”

Hermos stood up, giving Timaeus a harsh glare; she raised and pointed her sword towards him. “Don’t think for one second that you’ve beaten me,” she said angrily. Timaeus raised his swords and stood in a fighting position “Bring it,” he replied.

The two ran towards each other, once in range of each other; Timaeus swung his swords to attack whilst Hermos raised her sword to defend herself. Once their swords connected, Timaeus shouted, “Ánodos Anémou!” Creating a rise of wind, which he used to jump over Hermos and half turn whilst, in mid-air, landing facing the back of her.

In creating an opening in Hermos’ defence, Timaeus seized the opportunity and executed a side kick, causing Hermos to fall to the ground. However, Hermos was not finished yet; she quickly sprang back to her feet, angry and frustrated that she was struggling against an opponent who, moments ago, seemed to stand no chance.

Noticing the torches surrounding the training arena, Hermos raised her left arm above her head and shouted, “Éla Óli Fotiá!” She summoned fire from all the torches, forming a sphere of flame.

“Calm down, Hermos!” Master Byrne shouted, but she was too irritated to heed his warning. With a swift movement, Hermos pulled her arm back and then thrust it forward, yelling, “Apergía Meteoríti!” as she launched her attack. Master Byrne was about to intervene when he realised Timaeus was preparing to counterattack.

Timaeus swung his swords toward the sphere of fire and shouted, “Káfsi!” When his swords struck the sphere, the flames dispersed across the training arena. After halting Hermos’ attack, Timaeus shouted, “Ánodos Anémou!” This created a gust of wind that lifted him into the air and propelled him toward Hermos.

While airborne, Timaeus extended his swords outward, then swung them downward, exclaiming, “Anemostróvilos!” This summoned a small tornado that surged toward Hermos, lifting her into the air. As Timaeus landed back on the ground, he quickly shouted, “Ánodos Anémou!” once more, summoning another gust of wind that lifted him skyward.

Taking advantage of the momentum, he half-turned while ascending, using the rising wind to lift his legs and execute a backward flip. As Hermos fell past him, Timaeus delivered a powerful kick, sending her crashing back to the ground.

As Timaeus fell back towards the ground, he half turned and landed standing above Hermos with both his swords above her throat. Timaeus knelt down on his right knee and said, “How do you like this pathetic piece of shit now?”

At Timaeus’ mercy, Hermos caught a glimpse of some of the fire from her earlier attack and secretly started to charm it whilst turning towards Timaeus. “You’re not pathetic I’ll give you that,” replied Hermos. “But a piece of shit all the same, Éla Óli Fotiá!” Hermos’ spell then summoned all the fire she had secretly charmed towards her in the hopes of finishing Timaeus.

However, Timaeus swung his left sword towards it and shouted, “Anáflexi Lepídas!” Causing his blade to ignite. Timaeus held the flaming sword above Hermos’ face. “That’s enough!” Master Byrne shouted.

Heavily breathing and still filled with rage, Timaeus stood up and replied, “Yes, Master Byrne.” He then turned and swung his left sword, shouting, “Lepída Flógas!” A blade of fire shot around the training arena, relighting all the torches as Hermos absorbed all the flames with her Fire Magic. Suddenly, the Dragon’s Eye Crest began to glow. After witnessing this event, everyone was astonished by what they were seeing.

“I think you’ve just found your future successor, Phaedo,” said Master Byrne. Master Phaedo turned toward Master Byrne, his expression one of shock. “No fucking shit,” he replied, astounded by the unexpected turn of events. Curious to learn more, the atmosphere was thick with surprise, and Master Byrne declared, “All students are dismissed for today, except for you, Hermos.”

With his mind filled with curiosity, Master Phaedo turned towards his students. “Thank you, my students, we are finished for today,” he said. “You are dismissed... except for Timaeus.” Master Phaedo and Master Byrne then focused their attention on Timaeus. “Young Timaeus, would you please come and join me and Master Phaedo?” asked Master Byrne. “You too, Hermos.”

Hermos was still exhausted from her battle with Timaeus, but he offered his hand to help her up. Although reluctant at first, as she didn’t want to appear weak or embarrassed by accepting help from the one who had just defeated her, Hermos eventually took Timaeus’ hand, and he helped her to her feet. The two students then walked over to join their masters.

“I don’t see how this is possible, Byrne,” said Master Phaedo. “Timaeus has been my student since he was a young boy. How is it that a Wind Student is able to use Fire Magic?”

Master Byrne stood with a puzzled expression on his face. “I’m not sure, Phaedo,” he replied, then turned his attention to Timaeus. “Young Timaeus, has anything like this ever happened before? Have you ever been able to use Fire Magic?”

Timaeus looked ashamed as he answered, “No, I haven’t, Master Byrne.

“Hmmm?” Master Phaedo exclaimed. “If Timaeus can use Fire Magic, do you think it’s possible for him to use all four forms of Element Magic?” A look of doubt crossed Master Byrne’s face.

“As extraordinary as that would be, Phaedo, somehow I doubt it,” he replied.

Meanwhile, Hermos, still exhausted, stood there, breathing heavily. “Huff... huff... Well, you could’ve fooled me,” she said. “When you jumped and knocked me back to the floor, huff... huff... it felt like an Earth Elemental was hitting me.”

Master Phaedo was shocked by the information. “Timaeus, what were your emotions before you used your Wind Magic to jump back into the air?” he asked. Timaeus paused, reflecting on the entire fight. “Anger and rage would be my best answer, Master Phaedo,” he replied. This response piqued Master Phaedo’s curiosity further. “Wind and Water Magic require calmer emotions,” he explained. “On the other hand, Fire and Earth Magic demand fiercer emotions. So far, we have seen Wind and Fire Magic in use, and it seems Earth Magic was involved as well, but there was no water present during their battle to utilise Water Magic.”

Just then, Master Byrne noticed something. “Why don’t we test that theory?” he suggested, eliciting surprised reactions from the others. “There’s a fountain just over there at the edge of the arena. Let’s find out if you’re right, Phaedo.”

Master Byrne, Master Phaedo, Timaeus, and Hermos walked toward the fountain to investigate whether something previously thought impossible could actually happen.

“Now, young Timaeus,” Master Byrne said, “let’s see if Master Phaedo’s theory about you is correct.”

Hermos stood nearby, her expression filled with jealousy. “Tch. I’ve got to see this,” she muttered.

Master Byrne turned to Hermos with an irritated look. “HERMOS! That’s enough!” he snapped.

Hermos met his gaze with a hint of defiance. “Apologies, Master Byrne,” she replied. “I just find this hard to believe. Up until recently, Timaeus could do fuck all against me; he was just a little Wind Student. Now, all of a sudden, he’s using Fire Magic against me... and there’s even a possibility he can master all four forms of Element Magic.”

Master Byrne approached his student and placed a hand on her shoulder. “I know how you’re feeling, Hermos,” he said. “I’m finding this just as hard to believe as you are. That’s why we’re here—to see if it’s true.” Master Byrne then turned to the others and said, “Anyway, Phaedo, continue.”