Chapter 3: Learning and Experimenting with Magic

That night, Aeta had a restful sleep, though no longer tormented by dreams of her former life back on Earth. Instead, she had new dreams, fueled by her excitement at Astral Academy and learning about magic.

In her dreams, Aeta found herself in a magical forest, surrounded by mystical creatures and radiant plants. She felt a deep connection to the natural world, as if she could communicate with the trees, animals, and even the elements. Each step she took in this dream world was filled with wonder and discovery.

As she walked deeper into the forest, she encountered a wise old wizard who welcomed her and offered to be her mentor. Together, they delved into the secrets of elemental magic, practicing fire spells and conjuring flames that danced in the night.

Aeta also met a kind and gentle beast tamer who introduced her to a variety of magical creatures. She formed bonds with these beings, learning to communicate with them and gaining their trust.

The dream was a reflection of her new life at Astral Academy, filled with opportunities for learning and growth. Aeta felt a sense of purpose and excitement as she embraced her magical journey.

As her dream continued, she found herself in a classroom, learning about elements from the academy’s elements teacher.

In her dream, Aeta sat in a classroom at Astral Academy, surrounded by fellow students eager to learn about the elements. The teacher, a knowledgeable and experienced mage, stood at the front of the room, explaining the intricacies of elemental magic.

Aeta absorbed the lessons with enthusiasm. She observed demonstrations of fire spells, water manipulation, earth-shaping techniques, and wind control. The teacher emphasized the importance of understanding the fundamental properties of each element and how to harness their power.

As the lesson continued, Aeta felt a growing sense of connection to the elements. She could almost feel the heat of the flames, the soothing flow of water, the solidity of the earth, and the gentle breeze of the wind within the classroom. It was a dream filled with wonder and a deep desire to master the art of elemental magic.

The dream served as a prelude to her upcoming studies at Astral Academy, and it left Aeta even more excited and determined to excel in her magical education.

In the real world, Eliyen tenderly shook the sleeping Provincial Princess awake, as it was time to awaken, so that they had time to wash and go down to the dorm’s cafeteria before classes started.

Aeta stirred from her sleep, slowly transitioning from the vivid dream to reality. She opened her eyes to find Eliyen standing nearby, gently waking her. Aeta blinked and smiled sleepily. “Good morning, Eliyen,” she said, slowly pushing herself into a sitting position.

Eliyen smiled warmly. “Good morning, my lady. It’s time to get ready for the day. We don’t want to be late for your first day of classes.”

Aeta nodded and stretched, her excitement returning as she remembered the magical world she was now a part of. She quickly got up and started preparing for the day ahead, eager to make the most of her time at Astral Academy.

As with yesterday, she began removing her clothes as Eliyen got her bath ready, her mind on the classes she was about to undertake. Excitement filled her whole being at the thought of learning magic.

Aeta quickly finished undressing and entered the bathroom. The warm water was refreshing, and she took her time washing and cleansing herself thoroughly. As the water flowed over her, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of renewal and anticipation for the day ahead. Today marked the beginning of her magical journey, and she was determined to make the most of it.

Once she finished her bath, she dried off and got dressed in the uniform she had prepared the night before. She couldn’t help but feel a bit of pride as she looked at herself in the mirror. It was a reminder of the new life she had embraced, and the opportunities that lay ahead.

As she stepped out of the bathroom, she saw Eliyen waiting for her with a smile. “You look lovely, my lady. Are you ready for breakfast before heading to your classes?”

Aeta nodded, feeling a surge of excitement. “Yes, let’s go. I can’t wait to see what today has in store for me.” Aeta soon led the way to the doors, and as they left, they were joined by Tomoe, and the three walked down to the dorms cafeteria, where the delicious-smelling breakfast food of Nirvalise greeted them.

The aroma of the breakfast spread in the dorm’s cafeteria was enticing, and Aeta’s stomach rumbled in response. The variety of dishes reminded her of the Japanese cuisine she had seen on the menu at the restaurant in the capital. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of appreciation for the thoughtfulness that went into preparing her meals.

Aeta and her companions found a table and took their seats. As they enjoyed their breakfast, they chatted about what the day might hold for her. Aeta felt a mix of nerves and excitement, but her companions’ presence helped ease her anxiety.

“Thank you both for being here with me. I’m really looking forward to my classes today,” Aeta said with a warm smile.

Eliyen nodded. “It’s our pleasure, my lady. We’re here to support you in every way we can.”

Tomoe added, “And we’ll be right here when your classes are over to hear all about it.”

Aeta smiled at her companions. “thank you so much. I appreciate it,” she said to them and then rose from her seat and made her way toward the place she was supposed to get her class schedule. She blinked her eyes as it glowed and showed her name before her schedule appeared on a crystalline object.

As Aeta inspected her class schedule on the crystalline device, she noted the upcoming events and classes. The thought of attending her first orientation and then diving into the world of magic filled her with a sense of anticipation. She couldn’t help but feel a flutter of excitement in her chest.

She made her way to the location of the orientation with her companions, ready to start her journey into the realm of magic. It was a new beginning, and Aeta was eager to learn and experience everything that Astral Academy had to offer.

Ahead of her, she saw a crowd of students, likely new students like her, and they were waiting by some large doors. Once it opened, Aeta, along with her companions and fellow students, filed in and chose their seats. As a habit from her old life, and partly because she was nearsighted, she always sat at the front, and here she chose to do the same, even though her Faun body didn’t have the same issue as her original human body. In front of them appeared what seemed to be a wizard, staff, beard, and wizard hat in all. Aeta listened intently as he spoke to them, starting their new student orientation.

Aeta, along with her companions, found seats at the front of the large room, ready to start her new student orientation. She gazed at the wizard-like figure at the front, intrigued by the magical ambiance of the room.

As the orientation began, she listened attentively, eager to absorb all the information and guidance that would help her embark on her magical journey at Astral Academy. The wizard’s words were like music to her ears, fueling her excitement and determination to excel in her studies. Aeta couldn’t wait to begin her magical education.

Aeta listened attentively as Master Adius outlined the rules and regulations of Astral Academy. She made mental notes of the important points, ensuring that she would follow the guidelines and conduct herself accordingly during her time at the academy. The rules were a necessary foundation for maintaining order and harmony in such a prestigious institution dedicated to magical studies, and Aeta was determined to be a model student.

Aeta nodded in agreement with the rule about using magic responsibly and not for selfish purposes. It resonated with her sense of ethics, and she appreciated that the academy upheld such principles. Magic was a powerful force, and it should be used with wisdom and restraint. She was eager to embrace these values during her time at Astral Academy and make the most of her magical education.

“Now then, before I send you off to your real classes, I’d like to test on your knowledge, a show of hands, what element of magic is appropriate when facing say a plant-based monster, Does anyone have a thought?’ Master Adius asked. Aeta raised her hand, eager to participate in the discussion. She had been thinking about this and wanted to see if her answer aligned with what Master Adius had in mind.

“Yes, uh, Lady Aeta Von Siemils, you have the answer to this question?” Master Adius asked the only faun in the room.

Aeta cleared her throat gently and spoke, “I believe when facing a plant-based monster, the most appropriate element of magic would be fire. Fire can be used to burn and weaken the plant-based creature, making it easier to deal with, provided it’s not a fire-resistant species of plant.”

The master smiled, before he spoke, “Correct, young lady! correct indeed, Fire beats plant, and for those in Elements class with Master Ignis, you will learn the strengths and weaknesses of each element.”

Aeta felt a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction at having given the right answer. She listened attentively as the orientation continued, eager to begin her classes and learn more about magic.

Finally, it was the end of orientation. “I believe that’s all the time I have for you, but remember students, the rules and regulations, and please note, you will not be able to cheat during lessons, unlike in ordinary classes you’ve taken before, but seeing as its magic your learning here, why would you want to cheat right?! hahaha” He chuckled before dismissing the new students.

Aeta rose from her seat as the orientation came to an end, feeling more excited and eager to begin her magical education. She exchanged smiles and nods with her companions and fellow students as they left the orientation hall, ready to embark on this new and magical chapter of her life at Astral Academy.

As the three went into the hallway, Eliyen turned to Aeta to speak to her. “who is your next teacher now?” she asked her.

Aeta checked her schedule and replied, “It looks like my first class is with Master Ignis, the elemental magic instructor. He’s probably the one who will help me learn about the different elements and their strengths and weaknesses.”

Tomoe nodded her head, “I’ve heard of him, he is a good teacher to have, and he’s very strict.” She said as they walked to the elements’ class. As they approached the classroom for Elemental Magic, Aeta felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. She wasn’t sure what to expect, but she was eager to start learning about magic. With Tomoe and Eliyen by her side, she pushed open the door and entered the class.

Inside the class were the desks, same as in orientation, but what set it apart was an attached room with a barrier around it. Inside the barrier was a training dummy, along with a space that had clearly been used for a while, unlike the classroom it was attached to.

Aeta took a seat near the front of the classroom, as was her habit, and waited for the class to begin. She glanced around the room, noting the barrier-enclosed training area with the dummy. The prospect of learning elemental magic and getting to practice on the training dummy excited her. She looked back at Tomoe and Eliyen and smiled, grateful to have her companions with her.

Tomoe and Eliyen smiled back with encouragement, and all three watched as Master Ignis entered the room.

As Master Ignis entered the room, Aeta looked at him with curiosity. She was eager to learn about elemental magic and hoped to make the most of her time in the class. Tomoe and Eliyen sitting beside Aeta watched what the master did next, as he started his class, and with a welcome to Astral Academy.

Aeta paid close attention as Master Ignis welcomed them to Astral Academy. She was eager to learn and make the most of her time in this prestigious institution.

Master Ignis stood in front of his class and spoke. “Elemental magic begins with the four basic elements, which are Fire, Water, Earth, and Air, though the new generation preferred to call air, wind, as wind is what is being controlled, not air that we breathe. When elements fuse together, such as Fire and Earth, they make possibly two new elements, Lava, or as some call it, Magma, and Metal. Water and Earth, make mud, wood, or plants.

Aeta took notes in her notebook as Master Ignis explained the fusion of elements. She was already finding the world of magic intriguing, and she was eager to learn more about how to harness these elemental powers.

Master Ignis moved towards his desk to drink his mug of water before he returned to his original place. “I have been told that one bright young lady, seems to think that there is a new element that could be born of Fire,” he said looking straight at Aeta. “I’d be interested in hearing about your thoughts in my office later, Lady Aeta Von Siemils.” He said before he returned to his lesson. “Now, who can tell me what two elements work well together?”

Aeta couldn’t help but feel a little surprised and self-conscious when Master Ignis called her out. She raised her hand to answer his question, “Fire and Air, they create a hot, fiery wind.” She made a mental note to prepare herself to discuss her thoughts on the new element with the teacher after class.

Master Ignis nodded his head, “Correct!, together Fire works well with wind. Wind can become a tornado, which, when the fire is added, becoming a flaming tornado can be devastating for the dark lord and his kind. And as Lady Von Siemils has correctly said, they can indeed make the wind hot.”

Aeta felt a sense of accomplishment for getting the answer right and smiled. It was reassuring to see that her knowledge from her previous world could still be valuable here. She continued to pay close attention to Master Ignis, eager to learn more about elemental magic.

“Mud, and certain plants can make it difficult for your opponents to move, allowing you to meet your targets, or to escape.” Master Ignis said next.

Aeta continued to listen attentively to Master Ignis’s explanations. The idea of using combinations of elements to gain a tactical advantage was intriguing to her. She was eager to learn more about the practical applications of these elemental combinations.

“Unfortunately, most can use only one element. It is rare for an individual to be able to manipulate two elements, just as it is rare for all of the base elements to be able to be used by one individual. But I do not want you to feel discouraged if you are of the average elemental mage with only one element.” He said.

Aeta appreciated Master Ignis’s reassurance. She was beginning to understand the complexities of elemental magic, and it was clear that mastering even a single element required dedication and skill. She took a mental note to work hard and make the most of her magical education at Astral Academy.

“And yes, I see hands being raised, as some are curious about ice, correct? Yes, those students from the Frostholm Province will be familiar with this element of magic. Ice is what happens when water is in a cold environment for too long. In addition, a certain presence of dark creatures can also cause water to turn to ice, but we will not speak of them at this moment in time.” Master Ignis said.

Aeta found it all fascinating, how different elements could be created or influenced by various factors. She made a mental note to learn more about the different provinces, including Frostholm, to better understand their magical practices and the specific elements they used.

“Frostholm has Ice magic, Verdantwood has nature magic, and Ebonreach Province has shadow magic.” Master Ignis said to the class “and the Dwarves of Crystalpeak Province, primarily use earth magic, for their Golems, oh and I’ve been told provided that you excelled in my class, Master Dvalin, promises to teach the individual who does, how to create and control a Golem of their very own. “ Master Ignis said.

Aeta was filled with curiosity and excitement about the diverse elements and magical practices within the kingdom. She eagerly looked forward to exploring these aspects during her time at Astral Academy. Learning about Golems intrigued her, as it sounded like a fantastic skill to acquire.

As she continued to absorb the lesson, Aeta made a mental note to ask Master Ignis about shadow magic and its applications, especially considering that it had been mentioned by her mother and the headmistress as a possible area of interest.

“Now then, I think this is the time you’ve all been waiting for, magic practice time!” Master Ignis said to the class.

Aeta was more than ready to start practicing magic. With enthusiasm and anticipation, she paid close attention to Master Ignis as he explained the upcoming practice session. She felt like a child in a candy store, eager to take her first steps into the world of magic.

“When you enter the training room, I want you to focus on the element you want to use, or in some cases the element you can use, channel it into your hands, while chanting then will it, to the target. In some cases, throw it, if you feel its best.” Master Ignis said, not realizing that Aeta would not chant, and that she didn’t need to, which was a rare ability when she entered the training area.

Aeta listened intently to Master Ignis’s instructions, though she knew that her approach to magic might be different from the norm. She was curious to see how her unique abilities would affect her performance in class. When it was time to enter the training room, she focused on her chosen element, ready to give it a try without chanting.

Aeta channeled the element of fire, and as she did so, her mouth didn’t move as it formed in her hand, surprising her classmates, Master Ignis, as well as Tomoe, and Eliyen. Aeta then moved into position as if she was in a baseball game, and she was the thrower, and sent the fireball at her target, engulfing it in flame.

Master Ignis and the students watched in awe as Aeta channeled and controlled the element of fire without the need for verbal incantations. She effectively sent the fireball at her target, showcasing a remarkable level of control and skill. Master Ignis approached her with a wide grin.

“Lady Aeta Von Siemils, that was truly remarkable. Your natural talent for magic is impressive. Keep practicing and honing your skills, and you’ll become a formidable mage,” he praised.

Aeta blushed with the unexpected attention and encouragement. She nodded, eager to learn and develop her abilities further. “you might be a Savant,” he said, more of a whisper so that only Aeta heard before he returned to his spot and the next student entered the training room, as Aeta returned to her seat.

Aeta couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and excitement at Master Ignis’s comment. She was determined to make the most of her time at Astral Academy and learn all she could about magic. As the other students took their turns, she observed their progress and the various elements they controlled. Her journey into the world of magic had just begun, and she was eager to see where it would lead her.

“You know, I think he knows it will be you who gets the special lesson from Master Dvalin,” Eliyen whispered into Aeta’s ear, since she didn’t want to disturb the class.

Aeta gave a slight nod to Eliyen, acknowledging the possibility. She was both excited and nervous at the prospect of receiving special lessons from Master Dvalin to learn how to create and control a Golem. Her first day at Astral Academy had been filled with new experiences, and it was clear that her journey into the world of magic was just beginning. She looked forward to the challenges and discoveries that awaited her in the days and weeks to come.

One by one, each of her classmates walked into the training room to show off their magic. The class had a decent number of fire elementals, water, and ice as well as Shadow mages, but Earth and Wind seemed to be at a low end of minority.

As Aeta observed her classmates demonstrate their magic, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of camaraderie with them. Despite being from different provinces and having various elemental affinities, they were all here to learn and grow as magic users. It was a diverse group, and Aeta appreciated the opportunity to learn alongside such a variety of talented individuals.

She was particularly interested in the ice magic users from the Frostholm Province, considering the distinct nature of their abilities. She wondered if they might share their knowledge and experiences with her in the future. Additionally, she was curious about the shadow magic wielded by students from the Ebonreach Province. The different elemental affinities and the potential for combining them intrigued her.

Aeta remained patient, awaiting her turn once more, while also reflecting on the bonds she could potentially form with her fellow students as she continued her magical education at Astral Academy.

Eventually, the class would soon be over, and they were soon leaving, but. “Lady Aeta Von Siemil’s a moment, if you would. I’d like to speak to you before you leave,” Said Master Ignis.

Aeta nodded politely, acknowledging Master Ignis’s request. She excused herself from her companions and approached the teacher. “Of course, Master Ignis,” she replied respectfully. With a curious and respectful demeanor, she awaited the teacher’s guidance on where and when they could have this conversation.

The doors soon closed and Master Ignis approached Aeta, Tomoe, and Eliyen. “I was curious about this new element you thought might be born of Fire.” He said only for Aeta to reply with. “The element is called plasma,” she said to him, and waited for his reaction.

Master Ignis raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Aeta’s response. “Plasma, you say? That’s quite an interesting concept. Can you elaborate on your ideas regarding this element?” he inquired, showing genuine curiosity.

Aeta nodded her head. “indeed, Master, Plasma occurs when the fire is heated to a precise temperature, with fire magic, I thought this could be done a similar way, Of course, doing so with fire magic will also add another part, called cold fire, a flame so hot its almost like it was cold to the touch. “ She explained. “hang on, er, sorry to interrupt, but how hot does it need to be to become plasma?” Tomoe asked.

Aeta glanced at Tomoe with a smile. “I’m not sure of the exact temperature in our world, but in scientific terms, plasma is created at extremely high temperatures, hotter than the surface of the sun. It’s a state of matter where atoms are so energized that their electrons become detached, creating a mixture of positively charged ions and free electrons.” She then turned her attention back to Master Ignis. “With fire magic, I believe we can mimic this process to produce plasma. My concept involves using fire magic and precise control over the temperature to create this unique element, which could have various applications.”

Tomoe and Eliyen listened as Aeta spoke, and turned their heads to hear Master Ignis’s reaction.

Master Ignis seemed deep in thought. “A fascinating concept, Lady Aeta. I’ve never encountered this idea before, and it’s quite innovative. The idea of controlling both extremely hot and cold flames, which could lead to the formation of plasma, is intriguing. I believe it’s a concept worth exploring. I’ll have to do further research and testing, but it could open up new possibilities in the realm of elemental magic. I appreciate your insight.” He nodded to Aeta.

“That’s our Lady Aeta!” Eliyen said with a proud smile on her face, with Tomoe saying “Indeed”

Master Ignis nodded with a smile. “Indeed, Lady Aeta has shown great potential and creativity. I will keep you informed of any progress on this matter. For now, continue to develop your elemental magic skills, and we shall see where this journey takes you. You are all free to go. Thank you for your time.”

Aeta, Tomoe, and Eliyen left the classroom, feeling quite accomplished and eager to continue their studies at Astral Academy.

As the women walked the halls, Eliyen couldn’t help but turn to Aeta to speak to her. “You mentioned the sun before, mind telling us what that is?” she asked, not realizing that while Earth called their star the sun, in the world they now inhabited, it was called Ravala Khan.

Aeta paused for a moment, realizing the difference in terminology between her world and this one. “Ah, I see what you mean. The sun is the star that our planet orbits. It provides us with light and warmth during the day. In my world, we refer to it as the ‘sun,’ but I believe here it’s called Ravala Khan, right?”

Eliyen and Tomoe nodded in agreement. “Yes, that’s correct,” Eliyen said. “It’s interesting to learn about different worlds and their names for things.”

Aeta smiled. “It is indeed. This world has so much to offer, and I’m excited to explore and learn more about it.”

“Ravala Kahn is the goddess of light and warmth. It is said that in our people’s infancy, she came down from the god realm and took pity on us. For the land was cold and dark. and harsher than it was now. Though some places, like the Ebonreach Province, are still dark and cold, but it was kept that way purposefully. “Tomoe said, looking at Aeta and Eliyen.

“That’s a fascinating story,” Aeta replied, absorbing the information. “It’s intriguing how different cultures and worlds have their own unique beliefs and legends. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn about this world and its history.”

Eliyen nodded in agreement. “It’s an honor to serve Lady Aeta and accompany her on this journey. We’ll make sure she learns all she can during her time at Astral Academy.”

Tomoe nodded her head. “Eliyen is correct!” she said with a smile, then pointed towards the statue of a beautiful woman. “That statue there depicts the Goddess we mentioned, and as you can see, some leave offerings to the statue, plants like flowers that she favors.”

Aeta looked at the statue of Ravala Kahn with a sense of reverence. It was clear how deeply the people of this world valued their connection with their goddess. “It’s a beautiful statue, and it’s heartwarming to see the faith and respect people have for their deity.”

Eliyen added, “It’s a lovely tradition. It’s one of the many aspects of this world that makes it special and unique. We’ll make sure you get to explore and experience more of it during your time here, Lady Aeta.” With that, they continued their exploration, immersing themselves in the rich culture and history of their new world. Aeta was eager to learn and discover all that this world had to offer.

Aeta smiled at Eliyen, who has thus far been thoughtful of her, making sure her bath was prepared, helping the other wood elf to make her dinner when they all first met. She thought it was a shame, due to her position as a Provincial lord’s daughter and Eliyen’s position as a servant that they couldn’t date. “Thank you Eliyen, I appreciate it.” She said, rather than voicing her thoughts.

Eliyen returned Aeta’s smile. “You’re very welcome, Lady Aeta. It’s my pleasure to assist you and make sure you feel comfortable in your new surroundings. If there’s anything else you need or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. We’re here to support you in any way we can.”

As they continued to explore, it was clear that a strong bond was forming between Aeta and her companions, and their shared experiences were bringing them closer. Aeta was beginning to feel more and more at home in her new world.

Aeta was looking forward to more lessons, not only to due with magic but also lessons on the culture of her new home. The trio passed a small group of students, and Aeta heard one of the students say, “Whoa! That Faun’s wearing clothes!” like it was shocking to them. “That’s a surprising thing?” she asked her companions. “Traditionally, like wood elves, Fauns, and the rest of the Deerkin species are naturists, refusing to kill animals for food or for their hides to be made of clothes.” Eliyen said. “The only reason I am wearing clothes now is it makes your father, our lord, comfortable, and that it’s easier on the staff’s cleaning duties.”

Aeta nodded, understanding the cultural differences and the reasons behind them. She was beginning to appreciate the nuances of her new world. As they continued to explore and learn, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of curiosity and wonder about the people, customs, and traditions of Nirvalise. It was a world of magic, beauty, and mystery that she was eager to explore further.

“The clothes you are wearing are made of materials that did not come from animals, which doesn’t affect your biology, and doesn’t anger the god of nature, Pan. “ Tomoe added. “in addition, due to Deerkin’s species skills, they are given the jobs of Forest Rangers, which is a job that’s the same as the ones on your Earth, I believe”

Aeta listened thoughtfully to the explanations, finding it all fascinating. She realized she had much to learn about the different cultures and customs of this world. She felt grateful for her companions’ guidance and the opportunity to experience this new way of life.