User blog:Pollux83/Beyond Light and Darkness, Chapter 1 (reworked)

Beyond Light and Darkness

Hello. This is the new version of chapter 1. It is now a little bit longer.

Don't forget. His name is pronounced Ma-re-us, like the Roman names.

I hope you like it.

Chapter Overview

1 Memories



Every story has a beginning. Some start exciting and with a lot of action, while others need their time. To understand how all this could happen, what I did and why, I will start at the beginning.



My name is Mareus. I was born in Niskara, the capital of the kingdom of the same name. Situated in the midst of the continent, Niskara has already seen many empires come and go away and somehow the rulers of the country have managed to preserve the kingdom. Each era had its own unique challenges, but a lot has changed since the rule of the current demon lord.



In contrast to most anti-monster states the Order of the Chief God has in Niskara comparatively small influence and the kingdom has a rather tolerant policy towards Mamono. Mamono, classified as less dangerous, is allowed to enter the villages and towns and operate trade. They are accompanied by at least 2 soldiers. These serve both the protection of the citizens and the protection of the Mamono, because although generally not hostile, many people are suspicious of Mamono. However, if a Mamono makes trouble, she is first asked to leave the country before other actions must be taken. In contrast, dangerous Mamono are not tolerated.



The country itself has fertile soil, but only a few mineral resources. Therefore, Niskara has always depended on trade with his neighbors. A circumstance also known to many merchants of the Mamono.



Who thinks now Mamono are an everyday sight is wrong. Only a few merchants from the demon realms or Zipangu make it through the territories of the Order to Niskara. The few who make it are very welcome, because they bring valuable goods and new knowledge.



Otherwise, Niskara is a rough but beautiful country. Thanks to its wise rulers, its inhabitants were rarely suffer hunger and poverty is limited. Unity and mutual assistance. The two most important things that have shaped life in Niskara.



Even if life was not always easy there, I always like to remember the time I spend there.



<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">My childhood was filled with joy and the love of my parents. I often played with my friends in the forest and occasionally we made the city unsafe. A special event was always when a Mamono came to the city to trade. Each of us found these strange creatures fascinating and was curious as it can be only a child.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Many years ago on the market square of Niskara. "Mareus, where are you again?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Here mommy."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Come here and help me carry."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I do."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">My mother handed me a basket with the purchase for the next days.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"What did you do there?" <p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"There is another of these strange women." My mother looked around the square.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"That's how it is. That is why there is so much going on here today."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">A larger group of people had gathered around the merchant's market.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Can we look closer?" My mother looked at me and wanted to say no, but she could not refuse such a request from her son. "Well, well. But you'll help me with the food. "

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I do." I was glad. One of these strange women was seen at most 1 to 2 times a month, if at all. <p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">With the hands full of purchase, we crowed to the stand. There were some exotic goods, but I had only eyes for the woman. She wore colorful clothes and had a very long snake tail instead of legs. I could not get out of my astonishment.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Well, who are you?" She had noticed me and smiled at me.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Mareus."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Mareus, an unusual name. You have to be something very special."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"He is." My mother stroked my hair gently. As her only child I was her whole pride.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I'm Cassandra. Just look around. All goods are guaranteed harmless, but still effective."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I guess my son already knows what interests him."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"For real? What would you like? "Cassandra looked at me and I looked back with big child eyes. It took a few seconds but then Cassandra understood what I wanted. "Uh. You mean me."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I hope that's not a problem?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"No. I'm used to people being curious. Especially the children. Sometimes they sneak into my wagon secretly, even though their parents have forbidden it. You've never seen a lamia, have you? "

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I shook my head. "No."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Then look here." She came out from behind her stand and presented herself to me. "I am a Lamia. Half woman, half snake. Do you want to touch my scales? "

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Hopefully, I looked at my mother. "May I?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Yes."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Together with my mother, I touched Cassandra's green scales. She was quite smooth and soft.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Hehehe. That tickles."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Excuse me." My mother pulled her hand back.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Oh no. Have you now satisfied your curiosity? Or do you want to ask me your questions? "

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I did not answer her, instead I only made big eyes out of sheer enthusiasm.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Children." For a moment, she fell dreamy in thoughts. "Then I'll start. No, I have no problem with the cold. (Half muttered) At least not a big one. I just do not like it. No, I do not eat mice and I'm not toxic. And if you want to know how it is to snake, then you have to explain to me how it is to walk with 2 legs. "

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Ehmmmm." Those were definitely too much information at once for a small child. Clearly, she was asked these questions more frequently.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I'll take care of my stand. I was glad to meet you Mareus."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">„To us it was also a joy.“ My mother and I said goodbye and went shopping the last food.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Yes, this was my first real encounter with a Mamono. An unforgettable experience. I had learned something that most people in the Order's areas would never know. That not every Mamono is a monster. A knowledge that should shape my life.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I got older and it was time for school. Here we learned to calculate and write, even if we had rather played in the nearby forest. But we also learned other things. We learned more about the world. The war of the Order against the monsters and that the Mamono on the market are only an exception. That monsters were dangerous. And we learned the danger from the demons realms. The healthy world of our childhood began to pass slowly. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">For me, however, sooner than I thought. It was a normal sunny day in summer. I played with the other children at the edge of the forest. We played tag, fought as knights with sticks and climbed trees. What you do with 10 years. As usual, Lara was much faster up on the tree than me and Kai. This girl could not be defeated by any boy. I could climb as fast as I wanted.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"First!"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Why are you always so fast?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"You're just way too slow." Triumphantly she stretched out her tongue to me and Kai.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Forget it Mareus. Lara climbs like a squirrel."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I can do it, too." As if a boy would be defeated by a girl. Following Lara, I climbed ever higher, until I finally reached a branch over Lara.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Ha! I'm better than you."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Let's see."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">While Kai watched us from below, Lara and I climbed higher and higher. Up to the top of the tree.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">In the meantime, the other children had gathered around the tree and started cheer on us. Their calls motivated us and they made us careless. With each meter the branches became thinner. It was a head to head race. An adult would not have been able to follow us so high. Just as I reached for a branch to pass Lara, it happened. The branch broke and I lost the balance. I fell to the ground like a stone. I screamed and tried to hold myself somewhere, but there was only air.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">The ground came closer so incredibly fast. A moment later and I would have been dead, but something had happened. Like a soft pillow, the air had caught me. A strong pressure wave had slowed my fall and carried me to the next bush. The first thing I saw was the scrub of the bush. Then the others came. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Ouch."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Are you all right? Are you still alive?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Yes. I think so." The other children gathered around me and helped me back up. I was completely dazed and under shock. My whole body trembled. Finally came Kai and hugged me. "Mareus, you live! How did you do this?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"What happened?" I had not the slightest idea what had just happened. Everything had happened too quickly. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"You fell, but you stopped shortly before the ground."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Really?" Now I was really confused.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"That was windmagic. I'm absolutely sure. My father can do that, too." One of the boys called to the group.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Do you not need spells for magic?" A wild discussion arose. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I myself still did not understand what had happened and that was not just the shock. Magic was something for adults and you needed years of training to use it. Nevertheless, every child dreamed of being able to use it. Throwing fireballs, firing lightnings, unleashing an ice storm, is there something cooler?

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Then came Lara, who had managed to get down from the tree. With an angry face she stood before me. "You idiot! You could have been dead!" Then she began to cry and turned her eyes away.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I am sorry. That was stupid."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">She pushed me lightly. "That was it. Never do such a thing again. Do you know how I was frightened?" I had no Idea. If you fall you have other problems. At least my hands stopped shaking.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Sorry Lara. I did not want that."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Promise me to do that never again!"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Promised." I was really sorry. I had never seen Lara so sad. Then out of nowhere, she hugged me tightly. Everything was forgiven and forgotten, and no one wasted a thought on this stupid competition, which almost cost me my life. What nobody had forgotten, however, was my survival. Children are such chatterboxes. First the other children, then the parents and finally half of the city knew it. I hope that I do not have to mention that I got two weeks house arrest for this action.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">That this day would change my whole life I did not know yet. After a week someone knocked on the door. My fathe r astonished as several members of the town guard stood before him. They had heard of me and wa nted to convince themselves. They asked me questions and examined me, but without a clear result. To make sure I should go to the magician's circle in the castle. My parents were somewhat skeptical, but finally agreed.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">The next day, my parents accompanied me to the circle of magicians. Do you remember that Niskara is a small kingdom? The circle is even smaller. Just 2 dozen magicians studied and lived here. Many of them more librarian than magician. As a child, I found it just exciting. I was never so close to magic.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">What began with excitement became rather boring with time. One test after another. I should activate some crystals or similar. So things that only someone with a magical talent can do. In the evening the tests were finally over and we were allowed to leave.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">2 days later us were told the result. Even if the results were still not clear, I showed a certain talent. I should be trained. A 10-year-old child should be trained and become a magician. This happened very rarely outside of mage families. Such abilities usually appeared only at the age of approximately 14 years.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">From then on, my life changed. After school I went to the training. I hardly saw my friends. I slowly lost contact with them. Only to Kai and Lara I kept close contact. The two were my best friends as long as I could think back and they should remain. With Kai you could easily have fun. No matter what it was, you could rely on him. And Lara, she was the most powerful girl I knew and she became more beautiful every day.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">The years passed. My training in the art of magic made progress. However, mainly in the point wind magic, which I now controlled pretty good. Even the best wind mages of Niskara were impressed by my talent.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">At the age of 14, the ability to control lightning also woke up. Remember, air and lightning are 2 completely different elements. Manipulating the wind is easy, the strength is the problem. In lightnings, it is vice versa. Once you have collected enough mana to create a lightning bolt you can do it. The art is to focus and control your mana, without an exploding lightning. This requires not only much mana, but also absolute concentration.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">At this time, the Order of the Chief God also began to show interest in me and promoted my talents. One day, one of her envoys stood at our doorstep. "Hello. You must be David. The father of Mareus." My father eyed the stranger suspiciously. He wore unusually fine clothes, as it was the case with nobles or wealthy citizens. Besides, he had a very elegant posture. "That's me. And you are?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Danniel Parker is my name. I am here on behalf of the Order of the Chief God and I would like to talk with you about your son. "

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Of course. Please enter." Following the invitation, Danniel entered. He looked around. The establishment was, as expected, that of a working-class family. Simple but comfortable. Then my mother came out of the kitchen. To her surprise, the stranger bowed before her. "Danniel, envoy of the Order of the Chief God. It's a pleasure to meet you. "

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Uh, it's also a pleasure for me." She was visibly impressed. So nobly she was never greeted.

"Hanna, he's here to talk with us about Mareus."

"About Mareus? Of course. But his training will take some time."

"I am aware of this. I'd like to wait that long for him here."

"Please sit down." My mother offered him a chair. "Can I bring you something?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Danniel sat down. "I've brought some tea. Could you please prepare it? "

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Of course," replied my mother. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">While my mother was preparing the tea, the daily training ended for me. Exhausted, I made my way home. To my great surprise, we had a guest who drank tea with my parents. He walked towards me and offert me his hand. "I am pleased to meet you. I've heard a lot about you. " We shook hands.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I am also pleased."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"My name is Danniel Parker. I work for the Order of the Goddess. I'm here to talk to you and your parents about your future. "

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"My future?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Yes, but we should sit down first. After that, we can talk about it in peace."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">We sat down at the table and he began his speech.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"As I've already explained to your parents, the Order has been watching your career for some time with great interest. And we are very pleased with your progress. You have undoubtedly a great magical talent. "

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"The magicians of the circle have also said that."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Of course they have. I'm sure your teachers are very competent and teach you a lot. But it is a fact that the magical circle of Niskara is not the best. That is why the Order has decided to make you an offer. You are granted the privilege to study at the University of Tegras. One of the best magical academies in the region. There you can unfold your whole potential, I am sure."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I did not know what to think. Tegras, the capital of one of the greater kingdoms of the world. Even here everyone knew the reputation of the academy. On the other hand, it was a unique opportunity. On the other hand, Tegras was anything but close to Niskara. "Um, I do not know. This is so sudden."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Of course I fully understand that. You'll get as much time as you need. But remember. You are now 15 years old. Talent is something that needs to be promoted as long as you are still young. I believe your talent should be supported. You do not need to worry about money. The Order will take all costs." <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Whoever this man was, he knew what he was doing. His distinguished appearance. His choice of words. Even the way he said something. This man would also have managed to sell an oven to a mermaid. To convince a 15-year-old boy to go to Tegras was an easy task for him. I needed 4 days to think, but the proud look of my parents was just too much. I could not say no. Almost not. Finally, I said goodbye to my parents and my friends. I will never forget the proud and sad look of my parents. The son of workers was allowed to study at one of the best academies of the Order. The farewell to Lara was most difficult. At that moment, if she had asked me to stay, I would have stayed with her. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">After a long journey I reached Tegras. The sight of the city was breathtaking. I had never seen such a big city in my life. Even Niskara looked like a village towards this city. Everywhere people ran through the streets and the market square was almost crowded. I was eventually led to the academy, where I moved into my room. I was receiving both heartily, as well as negative. Not everyone was happy about my arrival. In Tegras, only the children of good house usually studied. I was a child of ordinary workers and did not even have a surname. No good conditions for a good start. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">It was not long before the popular students began to bully me. I was an easy target. It began with minor taunts. Then followed insults. To be called rube was still one of the nicer expressions. Only the few friends I had there helped me to bear it. To distract myself, I concentrated on my studies. Besides the general magic, I was taught especially in wind and lightning magic. As promised, I got the promotion that suited my talent. Soon I mastered my lightning as well as my wind. In addition, I developed a very special fascination for alchemy. The transformation and transmutation of matter with the help of magic was impressive. I wanted to know more about it. I read the books in the library. The library quickly developed into my favorite place. There, at least, I had my peace. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">For two years I studied in Tegras without any special incidents. But then things should change. 2 weeks before the intermediate examinations in the university. Tom and I just came out of the library.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"How am I supposed to do it? "Tom was as always in the stress.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Maybe next time you should start learning earlier."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Do you think I do not know?"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Why do you not do it then?" I could not resist to have certain gloating. Tom was one of the few friends in Tegras and unfortunately he was among the laziest people I knew. "If you would start a little earlier, you would not have the whole stress."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Keep your teachings for you. Not everyone falls that as easily as you. Nerd."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Lazybones." Yes, Tom and I were really good friends. We walked along the corridor. Unfortunately we ran into Leonard and his friends.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"So who do we have here? If that is not the rube and his little friend." Leonard enjoyed taunting me. As the son of a respected aristocratic family, he thought himself something better. Just like his friends. From my point of view, they were all just dumbasses.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Leonard, do you not have anything better to do? Learning for example?"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"You mean like your friend here?" Leonard grabbed one of the paper rolls from Tom. "What have we here?"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Give it back immediately! That belongs to me!"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Get it if you can." Leonard held the scroll over Tom's head as if playing with a dog. Whenever Tom reached the roll, he quickly pulled her away or threw it to one of his friends.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Eventually it was enough. I took Leonard's arm and held him tight. "That's enough." I took the scroll from him and gave it back to Tom.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I expected some insult from Leonard, but he just grinned at me. "Do you not know it? The pairings for the test fights are out." He nudged me with his finger. "And guess who fight against you."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"You?"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Correct. You should be prepared that I defeat you."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"As you say." We stared at each other for a few seconds. Then Leonard became too bored.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Come on, we go. We've wasted enough time with these failures." We were finally rid of them.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Tom looked at me with concern." Do you really have to face Leonard?"

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Apparently. Do not worry. I can do it."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Do not underestimate him. He's pretty good."

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I know that. I will not underestimate him." <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">2 weeks later it was time. I against Leonard. In the test, however, it was not about defeating your opponent, it was about showing what you can do. Ironically, something I was not good at. My magic had the disadvantage of blasting everything up. None of my classmates knew this. It was a well-kept secret of the Order. So I had to take good care of myself and hold back, unfortunately. I would have liked to teach this idiot a lesson, but it would probably have killed him. <p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">We entered the battlefield. Leonard wore a blue-white robe and a splendid wand, one only masters did. Apparently, his parents had bought him the wand. He was not expected to really control the staff, but his magic power would certainly be reinforced.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I preferred another combat gear. Light and comfortable, like a swordsman. I also did not use a wand. Neither the small ones made of wood nor the large ones made of metal. I had tried it again and again, but for some reason they did not working properly with me.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I could only produce wind and lightning with the power of my thoughts. Something that only the most experienced mages have mastered. For other magic I used spells, with varying success.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Ready to be humbled?" He mocked me as always.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I could ask you the same thing."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">We both waited impatiently for the signal to begin.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Ready?" Leonard nodded. "Ready?" I nodded as well. "Then start." The teacher gave the signal. The fight began.

<p align="LEFT" lang="en" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Leonard started with a small fireball, but I managed to blow it up with a little windmagic. Other fireballs followed. As expected, he had his staff only inadequately under control. Half of the fireballs missed their goal, me, for miles. I resisted the rest as before.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Is this all you have?" I mocked him.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"It was just to warm up." I had obviously wounded his pride. This he could not accept. Not from me. Now he tried it with his ice magic. With his wand he let the ground freezes among us. I had to be careful not to slip on the thin layer of ice, but that was also the case for him.

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Woa." He had frozen his side too, which was definitely not planned. I took advantage of the moment and fired an air blast at him. Hit by the strong wind, he lost his balance and fell to his butt.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Ahhh! Shit!" I had to start laughing. It was so good to see him like that. I wanted more. <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Do you want to take a nap or do you want to start fighting?" I had licked blood. I wanted to humiliate him, just as he had always humiliated me.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Meanwhile Leonard was on his feet again. And he was visibly angry. He concentrated and unleashed a blizzard. As before he had the magic hardly under control. All students looked for cover. In the first moment it almost overturned me and on the icy ground, I slowly slid backwards. I was looking for a firm stand. When I found it, I started blocking the Blizzard with my own wind. <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">My wind against Leonards. A duel of equal opponents. So it seemed at least from all. In fact, I just waited until Leonard literally ran out of air. As his magic subsided, I increased my attack. I just blew him down from the battlefield.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Hey Leonard. If you're so tired then just lie down and rest a bit."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Fuck you! Now I'll finish you! You'll regret this!" He had probably imagined the fig ht a bit different. I had humbled him before the whole academy and now he was really angry. He entered the battlefield again.

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I'll show you what I can!" He spoke an unknown spell. I could feel the magic in him. Then the spell began to work. It was a telekinetic spell and he had me in sight. I felt its effect and that very clearly. I tried to defend myself, but my body was paralyzed and I had problems to breathe. Then I began to hover.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Yes! That's what you get!" <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"That's enough." The teacher told him to stop, but Leonard ignored him. "I said this is enough!"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"No! That's not nearly enough!" He let me float even higher.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">What Leonard probably did not know was the fact that his lack of control began breaking my bones. The spell dragged on my body in all directions. Since I could not say a word, I could not speak a counterspell. I had only one choice and I did not know if it would work.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I concentrated as best I could and collected all my magic in my body. Then I tried to push the telekinetic spell out of my body. It was close, but I managed it. I displaced Leonards Mana with my own. The result was that dozens of lightning flashed over my body.

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Like a stone, I fell to the ground and hit hard. Finally I was able to breathe freely, but my whole body ached. Fortunately, I had not broken anything, but I was pissed. "Say, are you completely crazy?! Do you want to kill me?!" I shouted at him. I had not been so angry in my life. This asshole had almost killed me. The insults and taunts I had endured all these years. I had endured, that he had made me stay here as uncomfortable as possible. But now it was enough. Once and for all!

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I stood up and focused my magic in my right fist. Then I hit with Leonard as my target. I thought I was going to fire a strong air blast, but there was no air. It was fire. A gigantic amount of fire. A huge explosion made its way across the battlefield. The ice evaporated on the spot and Leonard had little time to react. All I saw were only flames.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Medic!" The teacher hurried to Leonard, who was lying on the ground. <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">An hour later I was sitting in the infirmary. My right hand had 1st and 2nd degree burns. Leonard did not get away so easy. He had probably built a barrier at the last moment and so survived, but a large part of his body had been burned. The healers and doctors did everything they could, but still was not sure if he would survive.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I still did not know what had happened. Like the time as I am fallen from the tree, my magic had become independently. I had used it completely subconsciously. Instinctively. Even though spells helped me use magic, I needed only one thought for my magic. And nobody knew why. <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">In the office of the director. "Mr. Parker, please sit down." Danniel sat down at the director's table. "I suppose you're here because of the boy?"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I came as fast as I could when I heard it. A truly regrettable incident. "

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"That's how it can be called. It seems to me that I should be lenient with the boy." The Director was anything but pleased with his visit.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"The Order has dealt comprehensive with what has happened. From our point of view, Mareus is the victim."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Oh really? And why is Leonard lying in the hospital and not Mareus? "

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"According to the statements of the responsible teacher and several students, Leonard has ignored an explicit order. What happened after that was self-defense and an unintended accident."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"The parents see it differently. They demand that Mareus should be held accountable."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"You know how parents are. But such a capable director as you are will not be influenced by it."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"You can save your flatteries. The boy's parents are extremely influential. I can not just ignore them. Especially not for a boy from the province. And I do not care how talented he is."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Danniel's mood and tone changed suddenly. "I'm afraid you do not understand. If they think only these parents can make you problems, then you are wrong."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Are you threatening me?" The director was angry about this statement.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"I do not have to threaten anyone. But I know from a reliable source that there are other interested parties for the head of this university. People who would be very grateful."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">The director thought, but he obviously had no choice." I understand. So what should I do?"

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"We take care of the parents. They will not trouble you. And Mareus will continue studying here. Without restriction."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"OK. The boy stays."

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">"Very good. I knew you are a reasonable man." Danniel was pleased with the conversation and went out.

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Even though I was not thrown out of the university, much changed for me. I was no longer teased. Everyone was too much afraid of me. Instead, no one was talking to me anymore. Even my few friends kept distance.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Before I had not felt at home in Tegras, but now I just wanted to leave. But the Order urged me to stay. I should be educated further. I said yes, but my homesickness grew with each passing day. <p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">On my 18th birthday, I finally decided to go back to Niskara. Danniel tried to convince me with all means and to join the army of the Order, but my decision was fixed. All the money in the world could not convince me to stay or join the Order. I wanted to go back home, to my hometown.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">Besides, I had seen enough of the Order. I did not like them.

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">I grabbed my things and went on a long journey home. After several weeks I was finally home, back in Niskara. The home I had missed so much. In the three years the town had not changed a bit. It was still just as in my memories.

<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">

<p style="text-align: LEFT; margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">My first stop was my parents. <p align="LEFT" lang="de-DE" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">…

<p align="LEFT" lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: 150%">