Chapter 3: Start of the education

After the celebration of my birthday, I was tired and went to bed early. In my dreams, a deity visited me and informed me that he was granting me some gifts. He also warned me that if I revealed it to anyone, the powers would be taken away from me. Only after I turned eighteen was, I allowed to reveal these gifts.

The gifts were as follows:

The power to create anything I wanted.
The power to analyze anything.
The ability to recreate any magic I had seen at least once.
The capability to modify or restructure any body according to my wishes.
Unlimited mana.
I woke up with a start just before the sun rose and heard the voice of the priest.

“Listen, Thalara, I am sorry to take these four gold coins from you, but it is necessary. These coins are the entrance fees for the island and pay for the master and food.”

“Do not worry, Mister Priest. I know your good intentions. Not only me, but the whole community is grateful to you. You don’t only train our kids but also help some of our kids to find a job. We are eternally grateful.”

“It’s good to know that you all trust me so much. I’ll take my leave now. I have to make preparations for the journey ahead.”

There’s something fishy over here, I can’t put my finger on it. But based on my previous experience, this priest doesn’t sound quite like a saint.

After that conversation, I tried to sleep for some more time, but I couldn’t due to excitement.

As the first rays of sunlight bathed the village in a warm golden glow, I felt a surge of anticipation coursing through my veins. With each breath, excitement bubbled within me, propelling me forward into the unknown adventure that lay ahead.

I took a moment to Savor the familiar sights and sounds of Aquavale, knowing that it might be some time before I returned. The bustling activity of the harbour, the laughter of children playing in the streets, the gentle lapping of the river against the shore—all of it filled me with a sense of nostalgia and belonging.

But beneath the surface of my nostalgia, a burning curiosity simmered, urging me to set forth on my journey without delay. With a determined nod, I gathered my belongings and made my way towards the harbour, where a small boat awaited me, its sails billowing in the morning breeze.

As I stepped aboard the vessel, I felt a sense of excitement building within me, mingled with a hint of apprehension. Though I had dreamed of adventure and exploration, the reality of leaving behind everything I knew was both exhilarating and daunting.

As I turned to bid farewell to my village, I was taken aback to find the entire community gathered to see me off. Tears welled up in my eyes as I gazed upon the familiar faces of my neighbours, their expressions a mix of pride and sadness.

The warmth of their presence enveloped me like a comforting embrace, reminding me of the deep bond that connected us all. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with the realization that I was leaving behind the only home I had ever known, yet embarking on a journey filled with promise and possibility.

Amidst the sea of faces, I sought out the familiar figures of my parents, their eyes shining with unshed tears as they offered me their blessings for the road ahead. Their words, though simple, resonated deep within me, filling me with a sense of determination and purpose.

“We’re proud of you, son,” my father said, his voice choked with emotion. “We know you’ll make us proud at the magic school, and we can’t wait to see all that you’ll achieve.”

My mother’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she reached out to clasp my hand. “Remember, no matter where life takes you, you’ll always have a home here in Aquavale,” she said softly. “Go forth with courage and conviction, and never forget the values that define who you are.”

With a heavy heart, I bid farewell to my loved ones, knowing that their love and support would carry me through even the darkest of times. And as the boat set sail, carrying me away from the shores of Aquavale, I vowed to honour their faith in me and make the most of the opportunities that lay ahead.

The journey from the village of Aquavale to the Academy Isle was an adventure filled with excitement, anticipation, and a hint of trepidation. As the boat set sail from the bustling harbour, I watched with a mixture of emotions swirling within me.

The cool breeze of the morning air tousled my hair as I stood at the prow of the ship, gazing out at the vast expanse of the ocean stretching before me. The rhythmic sound of the waves lapping against the hull was both soothing and invigorating, a constant reminder of the journey that lay ahead.

While gazing at the sea, I noticed some fishes swimming near the boat. Following their movements, I spotted a man tossing small pieces of fish meat into the water. Intrigued, I approached him to inquire about his actions.