"So in conclusion," Professor Max stated, streaking his chalk across the blackboard with emphasis, "different tiers of mana have a direct impact on the spells we cast—because of density and/or control." "This is why technically, a mage’s combat ability is at their weakest after ascending. Until one adjusts to their new tier of mana, they will struggle to cast their spells how they intended." He said, his gaze moving over the class. His eyes lingered in Michael and Melody’s direction for a few moments before a low dong sounded within the academy—signaling the end of the class. "It seems that’s all we have time for today," the professor stated, seeming a little disappointed. He waved his hand with a slight annoyance, clearing the blackboard which was filled to the brim with text. "I hope I have been able to insight a few curious minds about the wonders of mana." He added with a smile. "Professor... I wasn’t done writing down the notes," Lilly in the front row looked distraught, as if someone had stolen her homework. "Hmm? All of the lesson’s notes can be found within your emblem." he stated, raising an eyebrow at her. "Ah... I probably should have mentioned this earlier," he muttered to himself, loud enough for most to hear. "Ahem, the emblem on your hand also has a small storage capability—though it is probably only enough to carry your textbooks around." The professor announced, "but keep in mind you can only use it while on Academy grounds." With that, he gestured for the students to start moving, "hurry up, my next class will be here soon." At his insistence, everyone started moving from their seats towards the exit. Meanwhile, Michael was busy thinking about the man’s last words. Does the emblem stop working if we leave Academy grounds too? He suddenly remembered the mention of the Aetherheart by one of the sprites. If it was a magical treasure that provided mana to all of Arcadia, he wouldn’t be surprised if the emblems were linked to it. Michael’s interest about the Aetherheart was piqued even further. "Oh man, I couldn’t understand what he was talking about half the time..." Rudy said grimly, still wearing a confused expression. "Don’t worry, this is one of my best subjects, I’ll help you out later." Michael replied, patting the guy on the shoulder as they left their seats. "You’re a lifesaver!" As they walked down the stairs towards the exit, Michael could feel the gaze of the professor watching him with interest. Besides the slightly uncomfortable feeling, he could feel that his interest was purely professional—though it didn’t make it any less awkward. "I am looking forward to teaching you in the coming years, Blondie..." Professor Max stated, uncaring of how he may sound. "It’s Michael sir..." he replied for what was probably the third time since the start of the class. However, the man had already moved on, returning to his desk and picking up one of the textbooks, flipping through its pages. The three followed the rest of the crowd out of the weathered doors and into the hall where the sound of chattering met their ears. The first-years were discussing the lesson, some with interest and others with complaint—typical of teenagers in a new environment. "What’s our next class?" Rudy asked. "Combat." Braydon appeared beside Rudy like a ghost, smacking him on the back—hard enough to make an audible slap—but not to the point where it would seem like an attack. Rudy’s face turned pale in an instant, his body bending over, a small groan escaping his lips. Michael’s eyes went wide before fury overtook him. Remembering the scars and wounds that littered his friends back, he felt a surge of anger—ready to burst. Without a word, he made a beeline for the arrogant looking noble, getting right in his face. "How about you back the fuck up before I send you flying?" he spoke up in an icy tone, his fury evident. Braydon flinched, taking a step back, clearly not expecting the reaction. However, he quickly composed himself, a sneer creeping onto his handsome face. "What? Could it be that you’re not actually Melody’s fiancé, but this commoner’s fiancée instead?" he spoke with clear mockery and amusement. "Michael what are you doing?" Melody whispered harshly, shocked at his reaction. Michael ignored the taunt, his eyes locked onto the antagonizing teen—wanting nothing more than to teach him a lesson. "I’m okay Michael..." Rudy’s voice called from behind him. It was only after hearing this that Michael was able to retain his logical mind. "Touch my friend again, and I won’t hesitate to send you to the infirmary." He stated coldly, his gaze lingering on Braydon for a few moments before walking off. "We’ll see who sends who to the infirmary." Braydon called before let out a mocking laughter, surrounded by his cronies who did the same. Once they were clear from the antagonizing noble, Michael checked on his friend. He had seen the pale face and heard the groan that escaped his lips, he had no doubt that the slap had hurt. The most update n0vels are published on NoveI[F]ire.net "Do you need to go to the infirmary?" he asked with concern. Rudy shook his head, "I’m fine... I’m used to it by now." This answer brought Michael a wave of sadness. Just what had Rudy endured after the loss of his family? He had guessed that the guy was found by slave traders—similar to the one’s he’d seen after leaving Velmara City. Otherwise there would be no other explanation for his wounds. "Why did you do that?" Melody grabbed his arm, whispering harshly, "didn’t we agree not to provoke Braydon unless he provoked us first?" Michael’s righteous anger returned at her words, causing him to snatch his arm away from her hold. "He did provoke us, did you not see him slap Rudy on the back like that?" Now Melody’s expression became angry in response, "That small slap on the back? You think that was enough to threaten to put Braydon in the infirmary?" she replied. "If you’re going to react to every small thing, maybe you aren’t as capable as I thought you were." Melody spat, her tongue like the lash of a whip. Without waiting for a response, she walked ahead of them.