That night, as the members of the Loki Familia were helping themselves to dinner in a corner of the great hall, a weary elven girl stumbled inside. Her legs trembled as she carried a tray of food toward the table.
"...What happened to her?"
"No idea..."
Tione and Tiona could be heard whispering back and forth, huddled together in front of Lefiya as though conducting some secret meeting. Indeed, Lefiya's head was bent at an unnaturally grotesque angle. Her hands shook as she gripped her spoon, barely managing to bring it to her mouth. Even Aiz, seated near the Amazonian sisters, eventually noticed the air of distress surrounding Lefiya, leaving her puzzled.
The mood across the hall was uneasy. The girls whispered amongst themselves, while even the boys—gathered around Bete and Raul—nudged each other and cast sidelong glances, keeping their distance from the dejected elf.
"...Lefiya? Are you... alright?"
Cutting through the stifling atmosphere, Aiz took a step toward Lefiya—a gesture that earned her admiring looks from her peers. Her hesitant, trembling voice was clear as she spoke.
Lefiya didn't reply, nor did she lift her head. She needed to come up with an explanation for her current state. A memory from earlier that morning surfaced in her mind, reigniting a burning anger as recollection merged with dreams.
Just as Aiz began to worry about the girl's mental state, Lefiya posed a question, calm and gentle, yet hoarse and barely audible, as though choked from her throat.
"What... did you do with that human this morning, Miss Aiz?"
"?!"
Aiz was struck by a shocking sense of hostility and menace. How did she know?! Lefiya remained seated, waiting for Aiz's reaction, her head bowed and her eyes concealed beneath her bangs. A palpable gloom radiated from her very being. The oppressive silence only added to Aiz's confusion as she felt the stares and attention of everyone in the room weighing on her. She had to act. Grabbing Lefiya's hand, she quickly led her out of the dining hall.
"L-Lefiya... How did you know...?"
Bringing Lefiya to an empty room, Aiz remained tense. It was rare to see the veteran adventurer visibly trembling. Lefiya, on the other hand, still didn't raise her head. As the mounting pressure threatened to scatter Aiz's thoughts, Lefiya finally opened her mouth to respond.
"This morning, I followed you to the northwest side of town... It was there that I saw a golden-haired, golden-eyed Sword Princess in the arms of some human boy."
"?!"
"Miss Aiz, you wouldn't happen to have a long-lost sister, would you? Or perhaps... I'm hallucinating? I-I've been thinking about it all day, Miss Aiz, and I can't come up with a logical explanation..."
"L-Lefiya, please... calm down for a moment, okay?"
"If that truly was you, Miss Aiz, I... I—!!"
The pressure in the room intensified exponentially. Lefiya drew closer, and the top-tier adventurer found herself breaking out in a cold sweat. She could feel the elf's shadow consuming her. Slowly, Lefiya lifted her head, her brilliant blue eyes brimming with tears. At any moment, she might break down, sobbing like a child who had lost her beloved, admired sister.
Aiz, overwhelmed with fear, knew there was no way to conceal what she'd done. The thought terrified her into spilling the truth.
"...You were training on top of the wall?"
"Y-yes."
"...Then who was that boy holding you?"
"Well... he was struggling to walk, so I just... lent him my shoulder..."
It didn't take long for the interrogation to clear up the situation. The toxic gloom emanating from Lefiya gradually dissipated, and the light returned to her once lifeless eyes.
"So... you mean... you're going to train this human before the expedition starts?"
Aiz nodded. Now that Lefiya had returned to her normal, composed self, Aiz let out a sigh of relief, smoothing down the front of her clothes.
T-to think that boy would ask someone from another familia to train him. For free, even! Does he have no sense?!
Of course, that didn't stop another concern from creeping into Lefiya's mind. Camaraderie between gods and their familias was one thing, but this? This went far beyond simple kindness. And from Hestia Familia, of all people? Just who were they?!
Then there was the glaring issue of their differing statuses. On one side was a lower-class adventurer from an insignificant familia; on the other was a top-tier adventurer and one of the leaders of the city's strongest faction. Anyone listening to this would surely say, "Know your place!" This is insane! Unbelievable! Outrageous!!
All sorts of curses ran through her mind, the image of that white-haired boy flashing before her.
The audacity of that boy! Alone with Miss Aiz like that! I am so... so... JEALOUS!!
That was the heart of it. The boy was monopolizing her Aiz for personal, early-morning training. Lefiya's entire being burned with envy at the thought of the nameless, white-haired human boy.
"Um... I think you might have misunderstood. I'm the one who offered to train him... It's not his fault. He wouldn't have joined if it weren't for me."
Aiz's desperate attempt to shield the boy only deepened Lefiya's sour mood, expressed through a guttural "Gnkk..." Look at her, so worried about him. Does that boy even realize how lucky he is? Does he?!
"Please, Lefiya. Don't tell Loki, Finn... or anyone about this, okay?"
That beautiful curve of her brows. That golden tremble in her eyes. Do you really want to train him that much, Miss Aiz? The voice in Lefiya's head implored weakly as she trembled in silence.
Taking a deep breath, Lefiya tried to steady herself. Her emotions threatened to boil over, but she remembered she also had a mentor—a terrible one compared to Aiz, though. Her voice grew louder as she firmly resolved herself.
"If... if you want me to keep this secret, you'll have to do something for me!"
Aiz was completely blindsided.
The look of surprise on Aiz's face made Lefiya's heart ache, but there was no going back now. "Y-you must train me as well! Just like that human! Only you and me! Alone!!"
The words crackled on her tongue, her face a brilliant shade of red. All Aiz could do was blink silently for a moment before she finally gave a small nod.
"If that's what you want..."
"R-really?!"
Aiz nodded again. "Yes... It's all right."
"Y-yes!" Lefiya exclaimed in joy, only to freeze as she recalled the Mad Wizard's warning. Embarrassed, she turned back to Aiz and asked hesitantly,
"Uh... What time would you be teaching me?"
"Probably after I finish training the boy, around midday. I'll train you then," Aiz replied.
Lefiya let out a sigh of relief. Although the schedule would tire her out, it was worth it to train with Aiz.
Aiz narrowed her eyes at Lefiya's peculiar behavior. She's worried about the timing... This only confirmed that Lefiya must have somewhere else to be in the afternoon. Coupled with her fatigue that evening, it was clear she had already trained with someone earlier. Aiz stopped Lefiya mid-celebration, her voice taking on a suspicious tone.
"So, who were you training with this afternoon?"
Lefiya immediately stiffened. Her cheerful expression vanished as sweat trickled down her forehead. Recalling the Mad Wizard's warning, she stammered,
"This afternoon... I... trained with... someone else." She turned her face away, avoiding Aiz's gaze.
For some reason, Aiz felt an inexplicable pang of sadness or loss, as if she was slowly becoming a mere substitute.
"Then could you tell me who that person is?" Aiz was determined to find out who her rival in training was. The dynamic between them had completely flipped, with Aiz now holding all the power in this confrontation.
"I... uh... Miss Aiz! Someone's calling for you!"
"Where?" Aiz turned her head to look for the supposed caller. Seizing the opportunity, Lefiya bolted at full speed toward her room.
Realizing she'd been tricked, Aiz immediately gave chase. A small late-night pursuit ensued throughout Loki Familia's estate. Eventually, Lefiya had no choice but to confess about her training with her mentor, carefully omitting critical details.
...
Traditionally, magic tests—often referred to as a magic user's combat training—were conducted within the Dungeon. Casting spells in the middle of the city was out of the question, as it posed a threat to civilians and property, inevitably drawing the attention of the Guild. However, holding the tests in the Dungeon ensured that only adventurers, if anyone, would be affected, given the constant monster spawning. Magic users seeking practice avoided well-traveled routes, delving deep into the Dungeon to ensure their spells wouldn't accidentally involve others or let their incantations be overheard by rival familias.
"I'll be in your care, Miss Aiz!"
Ever her usual self, Lefiya prepared to enter one of the western chambers on the Dungeon's fifth floor.
As adventurers began flocking to the Dungeon, the elven magic user quickly headed for the innermost room of the floor. Standing before her was Aiz, fresh from her second day of training with Bell. The large square chamber they occupied had only one exit and was completely devoid of other adventurers—an ideal location for secret spell training. With spots like these being first-come, first-served, speed was crucial. While disputes over training grounds were rare among magic users—typically an intellectual bunch—the same couldn't be said for lower-level adventurers scrambling for prime grinding locations.
"But I really am sorry for dragging you here. You're even training me now..." Lefiya said, gripping her staff nervously.
"Don't worry about it," Aiz replied, shaking her head. Still clad in her lightweight armor with her sword at her side, Aiz planned to train both Bell in the early morning and Lefiya from morning to noon until the day of the expedition.
Despite feeling guilty for bringing Aiz straight into the Dungeon after breakfast, Lefiya couldn't suppress her excitement. How about that? Do you see now? Are you jealous?! Even without knowing the "rival's" name, she imagined taunting him in her head. This pointless inner conflict left her feeling both triumphant and motivated. After all, she was with her idol.
"Let's start, then..."
"Yes, ma'am!"
"...So... what should we do?"
"We'll spar," Lefiya suggested confidently.
"Really? But there's a big difference between a swordsman and a magic user," Aiz replied. In close combat, a swordsman naturally had the upper hand. A magic user wouldn't stand a chance against one of equal skill level in a head-to-head fight.
"You don't have to worry about that. I can use Concurrent Casting. Please fight me just like you would that human."
"All right."
Aiz pushed her sword, Desperate, into the ground beside her and prepared its sheath. Following suit, Lefiya readied her staff. The two stood 10 meters apart, facing each other. The moment Lefiya began her chant, a flash of movement from Aiz came hurtling toward her.
"Unleashed streak of light, bow limbs of the holy tree."
Lefiya dodged to the side as Aiz's sheathed sword slashed toward her.
"You are an expert of the bow. Shoot, sniper of the fairies." Lefiya blocked the attack with her staff and leapt backward, using the force to create distance. Aiz immediately closed the gap, her strikes coming in rapid succession. Lefiya avoided and blocked with her staff, finding Aiz's attack patterns simpler compared to the Mad Wizard, whose omnidirectional assaults made dodging nearly impossible.
"Penetrate, arrow of absolute accuracy—Alio!"
A magic circle flared to life as a brilliant beam of light shot toward Aiz. She sidestepped with ease, only for the beam to pivot 180 degrees and aim back at her. Aiz intercepted it with her sheathed sword, completely neutralizing the attack.
The display left Aiz genuinely surprised. Lefiya had improved significantly in such a short time. Her fighting style had also become far more practical—likely a result of her training under the so-called "Mad Wizard." Aiz felt a pang of jealousy welling up inside her.
"I'm sorry, I acted out of habit!" Lefiya hurried over to Aiz and bowed in apology.
"You've gotten much stronger. This must be the result of your training with that wizard, right?"
"Ehehe... Most of my improvement is thanks to Lady Riveria's teaching!" Lefiya quickly tried to downplay the wizard's influence, wanting to ease her idol's jealousy. Deep down, however, she couldn't help but feel a bit happy that Aiz cared about her so much.
Aiz puffed out her cheeks, a serious glint in her eyes. She resolved to become Lefiya's true mentor.
"Now I'll increase my speed and strength. Be ready, Lefiya."
"Yes, ma'am!"
And with that, the Aiz Dojo was born in her heart. A tiny Aiz, wearing an oversized martial arts uniform, raised her tiny fists into the air and shouted, "We'll reclaim our precious student!" Determined, Aiz vowed to face the Mad Wizard in a duel and win Lefiya back.
...
Today was just another ordinary day. The sofa was as comfortable as ever, making his nap feel incredibly relaxing. Sprawled lazily on it, ignoring the soft sunlight spilling through the window and the cool afternoon sky, Accelerator decided he'd spend the whole day like this.
Sparta and that lazy sloth had left early in the morning. Worst and Last Order had gone out as well, seemingly off to have some fun together. Finally, he had the house to himself. This tranquility was a rarity he hadn't enjoyed in a long time.
"Accelerator... Accelerator..." A distant voice called out. It wasn't important enough to disturb his peace, so he continued to relax. But then—
"Ugh." A sudden, powerful impact on his stomach jolted him awake.
"Accelerator finally woke up! Misaka Misaka says happily!"
"You little brat, what are you doing?" Accelerator glared at Last Order, who was sitting on his stomach with a triumphant grin. She was an adorable child with chestnut-colored hair, wearing a simple polka-dot dress.
"Misaka kept calling but Accelerator wouldn't wake up, so Misaka Misaka complains!"
"Get off me, kid."
Surprisingly, Last Order obediently hopped off him. That wasn't like her. Usually, she'd resist a bit more. Instead, she excitedly held up a new gadget she had bought. In her tiny hands was an old music player and a pair of small earbuds.
"Accelerator, listen to this! It's really good! Misaka Misaka says enthusiastically!" She beamed, holding the player up as if it were a treasure.
"Isn't that just an outdated music player?" Accelerator scoffed.
Academy City was a hub of cutting-edge science. Technological advancements happened weekly, and wireless earbuds were the norm. Yet Last Order had bought a cassette player, a relic from the 1970s-1980s that used magnetic tapes.
"You don't understand! Misaka worked really hard to find this! These antiques are rarer than the newest tech now. Plus, the tapes have new songs on them, not old ones! Misaka Misaka explains proudly," she said with a grin, her big, sparkling eyes pleading with him.
"So listen to music with Misaka, please! Misaka Misaka begs Accelerator," she said, using her best puppy-dog look.
"I'm not interested," Accelerator replied coldly, turning his back to her. He assumed she'd give up and leave him alone.
But Last Order wasn't one to give up so easily. She circled around to face him, tugging lightly on his sleeve, her round eyes filled with determination. "But Misaka really wants you to listen! Misaka Misaka insists this is very important!"
"Important?" He raised an eyebrow, looking at her with mild suspicion. "What kind of nonsense are you up to now?"
"It's not nonsense! Misaka picked this song very carefully!" she huffed, holding the earbuds up as if to prove her point.
Accelerator sighed. He knew she wouldn't stop until he gave in. Reluctantly, he took one of the earbuds and put it in his ear. "Fine, just once."
Last Order's face lit up with a bright smile as she quickly played the song. A soft, warm melody began to flow, vastly different from the chaotic or aggressive tunes Accelerator was used to. He planned to make a sarcastic remark but found himself pausing. The music was oddly soothing, almost comforting. It carried a strange sense of nostalgia.
"See? Isn't it great? Misaka Misaka asks hopefully!" She leaned in, eagerly watching his reaction.
"... It's not bad," he muttered, his voice quieter than usual. He wouldn't admit it, but perhaps she had a point this time.
"Then let's listen again! Misaka Misaka suggests excitedly!" She tugged at his arm, clearly not taking no for an answer.
Accelerator shook his head slightly, but he couldn't deny that this peaceful moment, with the music and Last Order's radiant smile, was unexpectedly enjoyable. He glanced at her cheerful face and, on a whim, reached out to touch her cheek.
"Accelerator, what are you doing? Misaka Misaka feels nice but still asks curiously."
"I..."
He wanted to say something to her. But the words stuck in his throat. Something... something he couldn't quite grasp.
"I..."
Click. The sound of the cassette player stopping broke the moment. The familiar melody had ended. Accelerator slowly opened his heavy eyelids.
The first thing he saw was his hand reaching toward the ceiling, as if trying to grasp something. Sitting up on his familiar sofa, he rubbed his temples to ease the lingering grogginess. The clock on the wall showed it was past 9 a.m. He had slept in much later than usual, perhaps due to that dream. Yet he couldn't deny that it had been a long time since he'd had such a restful sleep—or any dream at all.
"It's been about three years since I last dreamed," he murmured.
Three years without dreams, whether nightmares or ordinary ones. He took off the headphones resting in his hand and looked down at the old music player he owned. He wasn't sure how to feel about it. It was a rare keepsake from his old world, one he had only kept because a certain child had insisted on giving it to him as a gift. He'd shoved it into his pocket and forgotten about it until he found himself in this new world.
Rewinding the cassette, he played one of the songs that child had chosen. He glanced at the black notebook on the table, silent.
"It's been a while, hasn't it? Maybe I should pay 'IT' a visit today," he muttered.
Taking the notebook in hand, he stood up, ready to start his daily routine in this strange new world.
...
Lefiya's heavy footsteps echoed through the forest. Since their initial training session, Aiz had steadily increased her strength and speed with every strike, leaving Lefiya barely enough time to chant her spells. Thankfully, she hadn't suffered any severe injuries like the time she sparred with the wizard, who had struck her hard enough to draw blood and then healed her completely with magic. The symphony of pain and healing from yesterday still haunted her.
Emerging from the mist, she arrived at a familiar clearing.
Accelerator was waiting at the outdoor table.
"You're here," he said without looking up from the book he was reading. Closing it with a soft thud, he rose and walked toward the empty clearing. With a snap of his fingers, a portal materialized from thin air. Lefiya's eyes widened at the sight but betrayed no surprise. Not anymore—not even a little.
"Follow me."
The portal opened, and Lefiya hesitantly stepped after the wizard. They passed through sterile white corridors stretching about five meters long. At the end of the hallway was a small room. Upon entering, a scanning device swept over Lefiya. Looking around, she realized she appeared unchanged.
"It's just a device to check for abnormalities," Accelerator explained, noticing her apprehension.
Beyond the security checkpoint, he led her to a wooden door that seemed out of place against the pristine walls of the modern research facility. It was his magical research lab.
Inside, the room expanded into a massive library. Shelves stacked with countless books stretched so far into the shadows that Lefiya couldn't see their end. The overwhelming number of tomes left her speechless. The air was thick with the musty scent of old paper and the faint tang of leather. As she moved further, she came across a peculiar room and couldn't help but ask:
"Did you build all this yourself?"
"No. I simply repurposed something abandoned." Many forgotten lands had sunk into chaos, and this was one of them. Accelerator had reclaimed an old research facility swallowed by the void. That also meant the place was deeply contaminated with chaotic energy. While it didn't affect him, it posed significant danger to Lefiya. Even Chloe and Ayla had never been allowed to visit this place.
"Hey, kid." Accelerator turned, handed Lefiya a piece of paper, and said, "Although you're only permitted access to the first floor, read and memorize these rules."
Lefiya accepted the paper, which bore the title:
[Rules of the Research Facility]
1.Do not look into mirrors after dark. What you see in the reflection will no longer be you.
2.Do not speak to anyone after midnight. Even if someone calls your name, do not respond or look at them.
3.If a door suddenly opens on its own, do not look inside or step through. Pretend it doesn't exist.
4.If the hallway lights flicker or Irena's voice distorts, close your eyes and keep walking. Do not run or turn back. Stay calm.
5.Never sleep for more than four hours. If you exceed this limit, you will wake up somewhere unfamiliar.
6.Do not count the stairs or use unfamiliar staircases. They lead to places you never want to go.
7.Always light a candle in your room when you hear rain. If you don't, the darkness will consume everything.
8.In the library, if you lose sight of the exit, run toward the source of light. It's your only way out.
9.Occasionally, you might find strange books on the shelves or hear unusual music. Cover your ears and close the book immediately before it affects you.
Lefiya blinked as she finished reading. The rules were convoluted and difficult to understand. She glanced at Accelerator skeptically, but he simply shrugged and said, "Remember them, or you'll die." His blunt statement sent chills down her spine. She quickly re-read the paper and tucked it away.
The crafting room was spacious but dimly lit. Various materials and herbs were stored neatly in glass jars scattered around the space. A dusty cauldron sat in one corner, unused for some time. By the window was the wide clearing where she had trained with the mad wizard the previous day. Curious, Lefiya's wide eyes wandered over the unfamiliar objects.
Accelerator gestured for her to sit at the table and poured her a cup of tea.
"First, tell me how elven magic and the spell circles you know work."
"Uhmm... Elven magic, developed by my people, requires rituals and the recitation of ancient, systematized chants to cast spells. These chants are often complex and lengthy," Lefiya explained, swallowing nervously, unsure if her answer would satisfy him. He didn't respond, so she continued.
"Magic circles are formed from light, appearing beneath the caster to define the spell's range, provide insight into what's inside it, and absorb magical energy from the air."
"And do you understand how magic works?" Accelerator asked again. Lefiya immediately shook her head. She had an answer prepared, but she knew it wasn't what he was looking for.
"Ordinary magic harnesses refined energy from human life force or soul, controlled by the mind to cast spells. A stronger mind allows for more spellcasting."
This revelation was crucial, as it highlighted significant similarities between his world's magic and this one's. The phenomenon of magicians fainting from excessive spell usage mirrored the effects of reading original grimoires, where the mind is drained from controlling personal mana and shielding the user from foreign knowledge.
"Most people don't know how to convert life force into mana to cast spells. Yet, mages do it naturally without thoroughly understanding the essence of magic."
"So, you're saying there's a way for everyone to use magic, right?" Lefiya asked.
Accelerator nodded. The best part about magic was how one could control any miracle as long as they understood the logic behind it.
"There are various ways to refine life force into mana for use. As long as you understand each spell and magic circle, anyone can use suitable magic on their own. However, doing it incorrectly can have dire consequences for the user."
Accelerator took a small sip of coffee. The magic he was about to teach Lefiya was one he had researched, noting the similarities between the two worlds. Moreover, he couldn't let her use the Idol Theory in this era—it would cause trouble for her if the gods noticed.
"At least not until I finish writing The Aeon of Horus Magic Manual," he thought.
"This is one of the more common approaches to magic. Instead of focusing on chants, it uses the magic circle as the core for casting spells."
The reason he chose this method for Lefiya was simple. Magic circles lasted longer than spells and were more effective when used for enchantments and artifacts. The casting speed of this type of magic was also significantly faster. Furthermore, magic circles could be integrated into the existing spell systems of this world if the user was skilled enough.
"So you don't need to chant first before using the magic circle?"
"Usually, no. But chants are merely one way to build intent in magic. If you understand the nature of magic better, there are many ways to cast spells." Taking another sip of coffee, he continued, "Additionally, there are spells that don't require chanting or magic circles. Monsters and unique Falna abilities are proof of that."
Special magic from Falna often represented the soul of its user. The potential of the soul was limitless. No one could predict what kind of illogical spell or skill might manifest.
He snapped his fingers, and a pair of gloves appeared in the air.
"Now, let's get into the basics. Magic circles can be designed in many ways, but they typically consist of three main parts: the core, the inner section, and the outer ring."
This simple and universal structure was evident in all worlds, proving that wizards existed long before any religious legends. These individuals used symbols, gestures, and celestial movements to cast their magic. Moreover, the structure worked similarly to microcircuits, making it easy for him to understand.
"This is the simplest form of a magic circle—a single-ring design."
Wearing gloves embedded with magic stones, Accelerator drew a magic circle in the air and began explaining.
"The core of the circle represents the attribute of the spell being cast. This is a simple fire spell, so the center contains the symbol for fire."
"This is the fire symbol? It's quite strange."
"Yes, there are many variations of fire symbols, each with different meanings. Be careful when using them—they can produce effects very different from what you intended."
When Accelerator activated the circle, flames erupted above it, intense and scorching, as if ready to consume everything. By altering the fire symbol, the flames lost their heat and transformed into a warm, comforting glow that enveloped the surroundings.
"The inner section of the circle is incredibly versatile and allows for various combinations."
Since the amount of information embedded in a magic circle directly affected its power, symbols like pentagrams, hexagrams, the Star of David, or the Seal of Solomon were often used to enhance effects. As Accelerator demonstrated, the magical symbols within the circle continuously shifted to provide examples for Lefiya.
"It determines the spell's effect, form, scale, and direction. For instance—"
This time, he created a water spell. Instead of being projected outward, the water flowed and spread across the floor. By adding a convergence symbol to the circle, the scattered water gathered into a sphere.
"You can even introduce abstract meanings to achieve fascinating effects." He added a few peculiar symbols to the circle, and the water began to take on Lefiya's shape. She touched the water figure in amazement, feeling its tangible texture as though she were touching herself. Accelerator dispelled the circle, and the figure persisted momentarily before being destroyed by his fist.
"But you won't be learning that just yet."
Lefiya pouted at his nonchalant destruction of the water figure, clearly displeased.
"The outer ring completes the entire spell. You can add symbols and inscriptions along the perimeter to create supplementary effects. These supplementary effects act as additional commands to empower the magic circle."
He cast an earth spell, forming a spherical mass. Water from around the room flowed into the sphere, merging with it. The earth sphere transformed into miniature continents, while the water became oceans and rivers. A small planet floated in his palm, rotating on its axis and orbiting in its own miniature cosmos. Lefiya prodded the tiny world with her staff from different angles, her curiosity piqued and her eyes filled with wonder.
"However, the more complex a magic circle is, the harder it is to control. If there's a discrepancy between the caster's intent and how the magic circle interprets it, the spell will go haywire."
The imitation sphere spun faster and faster before collapsing into a useless lump of mud. Accelerator casually tossed the muddy mass out of the window, ignoring the lazy yowl of a cat from below. Adjusting his outfit, he continued, "Lastly, magic circles can be created through various means. They don't necessarily have to use mana or be drawn in a circular shape. Keep that in mind."
He stood up from his chair. With a snap of his fingers, a pile of books fell onto the table in front of Lefiya. She stared at them in surprise, her expression soon turning to disappointment as reality dashed her earlier hopes. Did she seriously think she could learn magic without studying?
"Read and practice everything in these books. Your task for today is to analyze what you've learned and submit a report to me."
Qliphap, a small creature, leapt onto his shoulder from the window with an irritated look.
"You can use anything in this room and the library, but under no circumstances are you allowed to leave until I return. If you need help finding something in the library, call Irena. She'll assist you."
He pointed toward the library counter, where a flat screen lit up and began speaking in a refined, feminine voice.
"Greetings, Miss Lefiya. I am Irena, an artificial intelligence. If you need anything, feel free to ask—I know everything there is to know here."
Startled by the unexpected voice, Lefiya looked toward the counter but saw no one.
"Hey... where are you from?" Accelerator suddenly asked.
"Uh... Wishe Forest. Why do you ask?" she replied hesitantly, caught off guard by the question.
"No reason."
Removing his gloves, which dissipated into a fine mist, Accelerator gestured for Ban to keep an eye on the room. He walked to the door.
"I have some business to attend to. I'll check on your progress when I return."
With that, he left, leaving Lefiya frozen in place. She glanced at the pile of books and then at the door he had just exited. The pile included three thick tomes: The Magic Circle, An Analysis of the Elements, and Alchemy. How was she supposed to read all this and write a report in a single afternoon? Dropping her head onto the desk, she groaned.
"Stupid Mad Wizard."
Opening one of the books, Lefiya scanned the contents—and promptly fainted.
...
???
Accelerator walked through a realm of undefined space. Fragments of ground floated aimlessly, and the distorted, warped space twisted the path ahead. Cries of tormented souls unlucky enough to wander here echoed hauntingly. If Tenkai was the Heaven where gods governed the souls of all living beings beneath Genkai, and the Dungeon was the Great Pit managing the souls of all monsters that ever existed, then this place was true Hell. The souls trapped here were either grotesquely transformed or devoured into eternal oblivion.
He gently descended onto a land formed of flesh and blood. Skulls stretched endlessly along the road, while malformed souls indulged in an endless cycle of ecstasy and torment. A black sun illuminated the domain of 'IT'. Ignoring the macabre scenery, Accelerator headed straight for the looming palace.
The massive palace was forged from endlessly flowing lava, its form constantly shifting. Towering black pillars stretched into the galaxy, encasing the area in overwhelming power. The black gates opened, welcoming him inside. Thousands of grotesque crows flew past him as the gates swung open. Passing through the dark, endless corridors, Accelerator stopped before the being he sought.
Qliphap materialized and coiled around his neck, her eyes wary of the entity before them.
Sitting on a throne of blood and bones, 'IT' savored the despair of unfortunate souls. Upon seeing Accelerator, 'IT' burst into laughter that shook the entire land. Stepping down from the throne, 'IT' approached him.
"Hahahah! At last, you've come. I'm truly touched that the mighty Accelerator has graced me with another visit." Its voice was twisted, impossible for a human mind to fully comprehend—a maddening mix of allure and insanity. Any ordinary soul would shatter upon hearing it.
"Shall we play a little game? You know this place can get dreadfully dull."
"Cut the nonsense. I'm here to make a deal with you."
"A deal? Hehehe... Hahahaha!" Its laughter grew louder, its 'eyes' glowing a mesmerizing crimson that seemed to pierce through everything.
"Hahahaha!" The laughter echoed endlessly, shaking the space for an unnerving stretch of time.
"This is what you want, isn't it?" Accelerator didn't need to speak; 'IT' already knew. He held out a branch, which 'IT' reached for with a twisted hand, transforming it into a broomstick.
"You traveled all this way for a child. How peculiar of you, Accelerator." 'IT' circled him and Qliphap, scrutinizing them. Leaning forward, 'IT' locked its gaze on him.
"Though I cannot fully perceive you—a being from outside—don't think for a moment that I can't see everything else. I'm quite curious about what goes on in that head of yours."
"A teacher often gives their student a gift for a job well done. I am that child's teacher. That's all there is to it," Accelerator replied in a low, calm voice. He had chosen Lefiya as his student. The girl had shown remarkable determination, and he intended to respond in kind.
"What do you want in exchange for this deal?"
Smiling slyly, 'IT' glanced beyond Accelerator before answering.
"Your reason for coming isn't simply to craft a tool for a child. This isn't even something particularly special—you could've made it yourself if you wanted to." Feigning contemplation, 'IT' tapped its chin. Accelerator, however, knew this act was unnecessary. 'IT' only sought to heighten the tension.
"Ah, yes, the debt from last time involving another child. Don't worry; I haven't forgotten. Soon, you'll begin fulfilling our agreement."
"Fine. What do I need to do?"
"Oh, just a few minor matters. I have far more pressing issues than dealing with trivialities. How fortunate for me to have someone like you to handle them. So, what do you say? Will you take care of it for me?"
A foul stench permeated the air, and Accelerator could sense the trap in this agreement. 'IT' never offered such a meager price. No matter how he looked at it, the deal seemed to favor him—unless... He thought for a moment, then took the broomstick, signaling his acceptance.
"The deal is struck."
Without hesitation, Accelerator turned and left, Qliphap clinging to his shoulder.
"Aren't you curious about anything?"
"I'm not." Leaving those words behind, he exited as the stone gates closed behind him.
Laughter from 'IT' echoed through the castle, spreading its madness across the land.
...
"Zzzzz..."
Returning to the workshop, Accelerator found Lefiya asleep at the desk. The unfinished report she was working on was soaked in drool, books scattered all around, and several potion vials rolled beneath her feet.
'Magic potion,' Accelerator noted as he picked up a vial to inspect it. Glancing at the sleeping child, a faint smile crossed his lips. It seemed he hadn't misplaced his trust in her. Pulling out a book, he silently took a seat opposite her and waited for her to wake.
The book in his hands was "Lemegeton Clavicula Salomonis," also known as "The Lesser Key of Solomon," an anonymous grimoire of magic, mysticism, and occult arts. It had been recompiled from Solomon's will and later translated by Mather in the late 19th century. It was an intriguing read for a quiet moment.
"Uhm..." Lefiya stirred, mumbling incoherent complaints about a terrible teacher. She yawned, stretching her arms lazily. Her eyes, still hazy with sleep, blinked at the white-haired figure reading across from her.
"Lefiya, the report." The cold voice startled her fully awake.
"Ahh... The report, sir!" Lefiya quickly offered the drool-stained papers. Accelerator gave the report a frosty glare before narrowing his eyes at her.
"I'm sorry!" she yelped, retracting the report. Magic circles formed around her hands as she worked to clean the manuscript. Despite her brief apprenticeship, Lefiya had already mastered the fundamentals of simple spellcasting. Unlike most novices, who could barely grasp basic tricks, her natural ability to control mana with her mind had advanced her understanding of magic circles.
After some effort, she finally restored the report. Straightening herself, Lefiya placed the cleaned-up document before him.
Accelerator nodded, opened it, and began flipping through the pages.
"Did I make any mistakes?" Lefiya asked nervously, licking her lips as she watched him review the report in silence. Her hands clenched tightly, and she swallowed hard. Her heartbeat raced, cold sweat trickling down her temple. Even her breathing felt labored.
"Don't draw pentagrams just yet. You lack the understanding to grasp their full meaning," Accelerator remarked, pulling out a pen to make corrections.
"Here, you've misunderstood the concepts of 'vision' and 'the eye.' Focus on the fundamentals first. Avoid delving into abstract meanings too quickly. Mistaking these can lead to unimaginable disasters." Lefiya listened intently, absorbing every word of his guidance.
"Other than the alchemy section being rough, the rest isn't bad," Accelerator concluded, handing the report back to her.
"Not bad." Joy welled up in Lefiya as a wide smile broke across her face, and she leaped in delight.
"Take these grimoires and study further. Next time, I'll guide you through alchemy," he said, gesturing to several books on the table.
"Ehh... Are these real grimoires?" Lefiya asked, clutching the books tightly. The sheer value of such tomes was staggering, far beyond anything she could imagine owning.
"Yes. The fact that you fainted while reading one is proof," Accelerator replied, shaking a vial of magic potion in his hand. It seemed Lefiya had consumed the potions, mistaking her exhaustion from morning drills for mind fatigue.
"Don't worry about their value. I wrote these myself. Unlike typical grimoires, they only provide hidden knowledge and don't grant magic to their users. Deciphering them relies entirely on the reader's abilities, making them worthless on the market."
Lefiya exhaled in relief, feeling less guilty about accepting the books.
With a snap of his fingers, Accelerator summoned a cane and effortlessly tidied up the mess Lefiya had made with a simple spell. As he turned to leave, Lefiya scrambled to grab her staff and the books, hurrying after him.
Standing at the door of the cabin, Accelerator turned back to her. Lefiya froze, her clumsy demeanor earning a sigh from him. Tossing her a magic bag, he instructed, "Put the books in there, kid."
"Ah—um. Thank you, sir!" Lefiya quickly packed the books. The bag, surprisingly light and spacious, left her in awe.
This must be a magic bag, she thought, her eyes sparkling with admiration. Seeing this, Accelerator wasn't sure how to react. Was this what a teacher felt for their student?
"I apologize for treating you poorly last time," Accelerator said, scratching his head awkwardly. "Today, I formally accept you as my student. You did well, so I have a gift for you."
A floating broomstick appeared, radiating a mystical aura.
"Its name is Asmodeus. It's a broomstick that will accompany you on your journey," he explained. As Lefiya took hold of it, the mystical aura dissipated, leaving it looking like an ordinary broom.
"I won't explain its functions. Discovering and familiarizing yourself with it will help you in your future endeavors," he added, hinting at the broomstick's hidden nature.
"Meow..." Qliphap, in her cat form, nodded approvingly. She, too, was a teacher to Lefiya.
Lefiya, overwhelmed by the gifts, felt like a child on her birthday.
"Thank you, sir," she said, bowing deeply before him. Her happiness seemed to radiate like a cloud around her.
Accelerator extended his hand toward her. Though elves were known for their pride and reluctance to engage in physical contact with outsiders, Lefiya reached out, acknowledging their teacher-student bond.
He clasped her hand, gently placing both his hands over it. Lefiya's imagination ran wild, and her face turned crimson.
"I've adjusted your bracelet. It now grants you access to my home and other areas within the research facility. It will guide you to where you need to go. What's wrong?"
Startled, Lefiya quickly pulled her hand back, then stormed off. Reaching the shabby cabin, she turned back, clutching the broom tightly.
"You terrible, mad wizard!" she shouted.
Bang! The cabin door slammed shut, and the entire structure vanished instantly.
Accelerator stood stunned, baffled by her reaction.
"What just happened to her?" he wondered aloud.
"Nehehe... It seems the child has quite an active imagination," Qliphap said in her cat form before disappearing into the woods, leaving him alone in the quiet forest.
Shaking his head, Accelerator headed home, the cabin reappearing as he departed.
...
"Hey, Riveria. What's Lefiya been up to lately?"
Tiona was covered in blood and wounds from head to toe.
"Shouldn't I be asking you that question...?"
Riveria sighed as she reclined on a lounge chair. One hand held a cup of tea while the other lightly pressed the bridge of her nose. There were five days left until the expedition. They were in the living room of Twilight Manor, the home of Loki Familia, just before noon. Most of the members had gone out, leaving Riveria alone to rest in the room overlooking the street. That is, until the Amazonian twin sisters appeared, their identical pareo dresses looking worse for wear. A faint warmth radiated from their tanned skin as Tiona's short mop of hair and Tione's long, silky locks swayed slightly.
"Tione and I were sparring! Sparring!"
"We both felt a bit down after Aiz's recent level-up. We couldn't just let it be, right?"
Tione's slumped shoulders seemed slightly out of place compared to Tiona's over-the-top enthusiasm. Naturally, they were referring to Aiz's recent advancement to Level 6.
"Right, but we all have our limits..."
Riveria sighed again, her eyes trailing to the battered state of the two. This wasn't unusual for the twins. Despite being inseparable since birth, they'd always pushed each other to improve, from sparring matches like this to sibling squabbles that bordered on lethal battles. Riveria knew this well.
Although she didn't mind them fighting, there came a point where the danger became too much.
"You're not the only ones. It seems like the whole familia has thrown themselves into training feverishly—just before the expedition, no less."
Indeed, the entire faction had been swept up in the momentum sparked by Aiz's recent growth, launching into rigorous training regimens. From the lower-ranking members to the higher-ups, everyone seemed inspired to achieve greatness, following the path paved by the familia's elegant powerhouse—Sword Princess. This explained why the manor was so empty at this hour. Everyone was either in the Dungeon or engaged in harsh training, striving to match her footsteps. Loki Familia's second-in-command let out a sigh to clear her mounting worries.
"I'd wager Lefiya's been training too."
Tiona recalled the deathly aura Lefiya had exuded one night at dinner, followed by the newfound fervor she had displayed recently. Could Aiz have something to do with this?
"Now that I think about it, hasn't Aiz been acting a little strange lately?" Tione mused beside her sister.
"Know anything, Riveria?"
"I'm as clueless as you two..."
Even as she said that, Riveria's mind drifted to her memories from the previous day. Lefiya had approached her asking for study materials. While that wasn't unusual, something about her seemed...off, as though haunted by some terrifying demon. The change was enough to make even Riveria hesitate. Lefiya had spent the entire night glued to her desk, flipping through books page by page. She was always a bit zealous, but the frantic repetition of her trials and errors went far beyond her usual efforts. Perhaps she'd found a new rival to spar with. Riveria may not have lived as long as the gods, but as a High Elf with many years of experience, she recognized these shifts when she saw them.
"By the way, why was Lefiya holding a broom?"
Tiona's question hung over the trio...
...
That evening, Lefiya was trying all sorts of bizarre things with the broom, but it still wouldn't budge.
"What are you doing, Lefiya?" Elfi asked her roommate. She'd noticed Lefiya acting strange the past few days, but today was especially odd. Lefiya was holding a broom, attempting to cast magic on it and even talking to it.
"I'm trying to connect with Asmodeus."
"Uh... What?"
"I'm trying to connect with the broom." She'd even named it.
"Right... Well, good luck with that."
"Thanks."
"Finish up soon and get some sleep. You need to take care of yourself."
"Alright."
"Well, I'm off to bed." Elfi gave her one last glance before turning off her bedside lamp.
"Goodnight." After bidding her friend goodnight, Lefiya picked up the broom and prepared a few magic circles. Still no effect. Maybe she should heed Elfi's advice today. A good night's sleep might help clear her mind.
"Why does this broom smell so familiar?" The scent reminded her of her hometown.
"Nah... must just be a coincidence." Hugging the broom tightly, she drifted off to sleep.
...
A Short Story of Daily Life
Boom! A loud crash erupted from the backyard. Heavy footsteps echoed through the small forest, signaling that a monster had invaded. The children scattered in panic.
But just then, a "hero" appeared, wielding a small wooden sword.
"Stop right there, monster! I am Rye, the Hero of Justice! I will defeat you and protect the innocent!"
A voice replied, full of defiance:
"Do you think you can stop me, you nameless hero? I am Ayla, the Moonlight Dragon! With my body covered in indestructible silver scales, my claws and fangs can tear through space itself. My emerald eyes strike fear into the lowly, and my azure flames will scorch the skies!"
Rye didn't back down. He raised his makeshift shield high.
"Don't even dream about it, vile dragon! I won't let you succeed!"
Ayla, playing the "dragon," stepped closer, her eyes glinting with playful provocation.
"If you're as strong as you claim, then prove it!"
Rye gripped his sword tightly and charged toward Ayla with all his courage. At the same time, "dragon" Ayla lunged to clash with the hero.
"Take this! Haaa—"
"Take this! Roaagh!"
Suddenly, a voice cut through the tense air:
"I am Ossian. A tree by the roadside."
Rye and Ayla both froze, turning to look at Ossian—a child wearing a hat shaped like a tree.
"Hey... Ossian, trees don't talk!"
"Right, trees can't talk. But why do I have to be the tree in this play?" Ossian complained.
Ayla and Rye exchanged glances before answering in unison:
"Because you're boring."
"I quit!" Ossian huffed, throwing his hat to the ground before stomping off.
Rye and Ayla burst into laughter and resumed their imaginary "epic battle."
...
It was a day off, and Chloe and Ayla were visiting Maria's Orphanage with Accelerator to spend time with the children.
"Haha, seeing the kids having fun like this makes me so happy," Maria said, approaching Chloe.
"Yeah, Ayla playing with kids her age is good for her, meow," Chloe replied, her eyes soft as she watched the children.
"Oh, where's Accelerator?" Maria asked.
"He went out to get food for the kids. Looks like he's treating them to something special today."
"That's wonderful."
The two women stood, watching the children play. In one corner of the yard, some kids were trying out a two-wheeled device.
"Whoa! Whoa! I got it!" Fina cheered excitedly.
"When you're done, it's my turn!" another child shouted, running after her.
"Okay... Ah, Roux, don't climb on like that! I'm not used to it yet!" Fina wobbled as Roux, as usual, just smiled and hugged her waist.
"You're so..."
Maria and Chloe chuckled at the adorable scene.
"That device makes getting around the city so much easier. What does Accelerator call it again?"
"Oh, he calls it a bicycle, meow."
"Wow, he's a genius!"
"Yeah, he's like that. He has all sorts of fun things at home, like a device that cools rooms and another one for long-distance communication."
"Fascinating." Maria laughed softly as she watched Ayla playing with the other children.
"When did you two adopt her?"
"Oh, about five years ago, meow."
...
Accelerator stood in a luxurious candy shop, his red eyes glinting with impatience. In his hand was a long shopping list Chloe had written before they left.
"What is this? Chocolate candy, gingerbread, sweet bread, and apple juice? Are these kids children or bottomless pits?" he muttered, his eyes scanning the last line. "Don't forget to buy milk!" The childish handwriting was obviously Ayla's.
Sighing, Accelerator moved from stall to stall. Each time he grabbed an item, he grumbled:
"Gingerbread? These kids don't know taste. They could just eat plain bread." He hesitated, then finally tossed a large pack of cookies into his cart.
At the juice section, he stopped in front of rows of bottles. "Apple juice, orange juice, grape juice... Why do humans need so many choices?" After a moment of internal struggle, he grabbed two large bottles of apple juice and muttered, "If they don't like it, they can shop for themselves next time."
As his cart neared full, Accelerator passed the candy aisle and paused. Rows of colorful treats sparkled invitingly. Part of him wanted to skip it, but the image of the kids eagerly waiting flashed through his mind.
"Damn it, why am I such a softie?" He grabbed a bag of multicolored candy and consoled himself: "If the kids are happy, Chloe will nag less."
At the checkout, a new challenge awaited: the line.
The long queue made him scowl as the noise grated on his nerves.
"I heard the candy here is amazing!"
"Wow, this place is going to cost me a fortune."
"Captain, I still don't understand why we're here," an elf woman said loudly.
"Sometimes indulging in things like this isn't so bad, country girl. Besides, you shouldn't say that while your eyes are glued to the candy," a deep voice rumbled—an older adventurer couple, apparently on a date. Not his business.
A child in front kept turning to stare at him.
"Who are you? Why do you look so scary?" the child asked innocently.
Accelerator glanced at the kid, ready with a snarky remark, but remembered he was shopping for the orphanage. Sighing, he said, "I'm not scary, just... busy."
When it was finally his turn, he piled everything on the counter and paid. Looking at the total, Accelerator frowned.
"A fortune just to make some kids happy. What a hassle."
...
Chloe gently recounted to Maria the early days when she and Accelerator first met Ayla, the cruel illness the little girl had been battling since birth, and the reason Accelerator had disappeared for five years to find a cure for the child.
"Oh, so that's why he was gone for so long," Maria murmured, her gaze tinged with wistfulness.
"That's why you shouldn't blame him too much, Aunt Maria," Chloe said gently.
Maria smiled, her eyes drifting to Ayla, who was happily playing with the other children. "I'm not blaming him. I just... worry sometimes. Ayla is an extraordinary child. She's polite, lively, and mischievous. But have you and Accelerator registered her in any Familia yet?"
"We haven't. Is that a problem, Maria?" Chloe asked, a bit surprised.
Maria shook her head slightly. "No, I was just curious. The girl has helped me so much in reorganizing this chapel. Sometimes Ayla can accomplish tasks even seasoned adventurers struggle with."
"What do you mean?" Chloe frowned slightly.
Maria paused before continuing, "Like last time—she lifted heavy sacks of provisions, rearranged furniture, and even moved part of the collapsed chapel roof during cleanup. It makes me wonder... is there something special about Ayla's origins?"
Chloe fell silent at those words. Her gaze turned toward Ayla, the child she considered her daughter. If Chloe claimed she had never been curious about Ayla's origins, it would certainly be a lie.
Back then, when she and Accelerator destroyed the human trafficking den, Ayla wasn't one of the rescued victims. Accelerator had found her in the deepest level, a place few dared to enter. Chloe had harbored suspicions, even wanted to ask, but never had the courage. Accelerator wasn't exactly the type to openly share either.
When Chloe later returned to investigate the facility, it had been completely destroyed. Every trace erased.
Yet, the days of living with Ayla had made Chloe realize one thing.
"Does it matter?" Chloe smiled at Maria, her gaze warm as she looked at Ayla. "No matter where Ayla comes from, she's my daughter. And I'm her mother. That's enough."
Maria paused, taken aback by Chloe's response, but then she smiled in agreement. "You're right; it doesn't matter."
At that moment, a voice called out from the chapel's entrance.
"Hey, brats! Your food's here!"
Accelerator appeared, arms laden with bags of goods. The moment they heard him, the children erupted into cheers and swarmed him like a small storm.
"Stop crowding me; the food's right here!" He scowled slightly but couldn't hide the faint smile on his lips.
Chloe and Maria stepped outside, laughing at the scene before them. Maria teased, "Who would've thought someone like you would be so loved by the kids?"
"It's not my fault they like eating," Accelerator muttered, dropping the bags before leaning against the wall. His eyes followed Ayla as she shared out the food with the other kids. He grumbled to Chloe, "Next time, you go shopping. I'm not cut out for babysitting."
Chloe smiled softly, replying, "You did great, Accelerator. Don't worry, the kids appreciate you, meow."
Standing beside her, Maria chuckled at the sight of Accelerator's gaze fixed on Ayla. "Seems like you're not as cold as I thought."
"Don't say stupid things," Accelerator retorted, but his eyes never left the children's joyous play. A faint sense of relief flickered within him.
Not bad, he thought.
.....
"Nehehe... The master really took on a child as a student?" Qliphap giggled, her mischievous eyes sparkling.
"Yes. So what should I do now?" Accelerator replied, his voice flat.
"Nehehe... I've been dreaming of this day, so I'm well-prepared!" Qliphap exclaimed enthusiastically, pulling out a stack of thick books and placing them before him. "Master should read through all these first. Then, we'll prepare a small test. After that, we'll need—"
She rambled on, but Accelerator simply glanced at the pile of books and ignored most of her chatter. He picked up one book, flipping through its pages to skim the contents.
"The most important thing is the first impression when the student meets the teacher. So, just follow my guidance during the first session," Qliphap concluded with a confident smile.
"Alright, fine." Accelerator nodded, contemplating the steps ahead. Although the thought of knocking out a dragon and dragging it back seemed like a hassle, it was still just another simple task to him. "But what about the issue with mind-control magic?" Without that, this wouldn't be feasible. Manipulating minds wasn't within his expertise.
"Nehehe... Don't worry, Master. Leave that part to me." Qliphap patted her chest confidently, her smile unwavering.