Chapter 6: Magic and soul
The decision to wield both magic and a sword was not made impulsively. My previous encounter with the death knight under Xarathas made me realise the importance of having a blade in hand to counter magical forces.
Despite the fact that swords are perceived as a sign of weakness in our kingdom, I had witnessed people in the empire destroying their opponents with unmatched skill and grace
I cannot afford to be complacent this time, and must do all that I can to become strong. Embracing both magic and swordplay will provide me with the necessary strength to navigate any future challenges that may arise.
"Galadriel, how about we use swords?"
"Is there a chance that you might be noticed if we use swords?"
I asked her. Since magic is prohibited, I will employ an alternative.
'I was going to recommend that to you.'
'You must be aware that whenever you use magic, and particularly spells, the magic formula inscribed in your Magic Circles draws mana as the spell manifests. But something else is lacking from this procedure.'
"Mental capacity?"
"True, but the energy you refer to as mental originates from the soul rather than the brain. As mana is directed through the Magic Circles, the energy from the soul aids in shaping the spell."
Despite extensive research and reading numerous books on magic circles and theories, I have yet to come across any literature that mentions the role of the soul in spellcasting.
The conventional understanding is that the magic formula inscribed on the Magic Circles functions as data, and that mental energy, which is believed to stem from the brain, drives this data to take physical form. The energy required to cast the spell is supplied by mana.
I attempted to delve deeper into this topic by asking for more information, but she indicated that the study of the soul cannot be learned through books or teachings.
It can only be experienced, which is only possible once one reaches the eighth or ninth circle of mastery.
'Returning to the subject, it is undeniable that the soul plays a role in magic, and when you use your magic, it will be obvious to the 9th and 8th circles who have begun to study the mysteries of the soul that your magic contains other Spirits as well, mine, a higher-level being.'
'However, if you use a sword, there is no way to confirm it because when someone uses a sword, the Will of Soul is engaged rather than the so-called Mental Capacity, which you will understand once you begin to learn how to use a sword.'
Although sword usage is permitted, it does not resolve the underlying issue.
The level of mastery I seek to achieve through swordplay exceeds the limits of conventional training in this kingdom, where swords are perceived as a symbol of weakness.
The challenge extends beyond the mere legality of sword use. My family, proud practitioners of magic with my father boasting mastery as a peak 6th circle mage, may view my choice to wield a sword as a precarious path.
Reliant upon mere chance and luck, they may judge me as a disappointment, unable to reach the same heights of magical prowess and now reduced to relying upon a blade for protection. Yep, I have to forge the story that way.
Now I can persuade or buy several of our estate knights to teach me swordsmanship. They have likely reached their 2nd-star, which should be their limit. Even though it would be garbage, I will at least be able to accomplish the bare minimum.
'Have you thought about it?'
Galadriel's voice echoed in my head as I considered how to handle the upcoming family conflict and other difficulties.
"Yes, I'll buy off the estate knights to learn swordsmanship from them for the time being as a novice. There will be many opportunities to learn swordsmanship from the finest masters when we go to the academy later."
'There's no need; if you can provide me sufficient mana, I'll be able to impart the swordsmanship in your memory that I had learnt in the past.'
Being in her presence is like unlocking a secret advantage, almost like having a cheat code at my fingertips. However, I understand that nothing comes without a price. To ensure a mutually beneficial arrangement, it is only fitting that I strive to become stronger, as that should be her ultimate goal cause in the near future, I have to fulfil the terms of the contract.
"How much of your mana reserves do you require?"
'Approximately the full extent of the Third Circle of Mana, if that is within reason.'
The request for mana was not an unusual one, but the precision of the amount requested was. It was not every day that one requested such a specific amount, down to the exact circle. But then again, these were not ordinary circumstances.
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