The Lazy Prodigy: Swords and Magic

After a week of isolation, the consequences of Cael's actions still weighed heavily on him. The courtyard was bustling once again, but the boy remained silent as he walked through the Academy's corridors. Despite the cold expression he wore, the burden on his shoulders was evident. He had crossed a line, and now he had to deal with the consequences.

The instructors had decided to reintegrate him into regular activities after a period of observation. He knew this was his chance to prove he could control his power, but he was also aware that all eyes were still on him.

That morning, Cael entered the classroom of "Lyria," the instructor of elemental magic. The atmosphere was tense. His peers still kept their distance, and even Lana and Ren, who had tried to approach him before, were hesitant. Lyria, however, seemed determined to ignore the recent conflicts and began the lesson with seriousness.

"Today, we will review the fundamentals of magic, sorcery, and enchantment," Lyria announced, as she wrote complex runes on the magical blackboard floating behind her. "Pay attention. This is essential for understanding your specialties and developing unique abilities."

---

Lyria began explaining:

1. **"Magic and Mana"**

"Magic is the manifestation of mana, an invisible energy that permeates the world and the bodies of all living beings. Each person has a limited amount of mana, which can be trained and expanded with practice."

Cael, sitting in the back, watched attentively. His connection to mana had always been instinctive, but now he wanted to understand better how to use it with more control.

2. **"Sorcery"**

"Spells are pre-defined techniques that use mana to produce specific effects. They require concentration and incantation words. Sorcerers usually memorize dozens, sometimes hundreds, of spells to be ready for any situation."

Lyria demonstrated by creating a magical circle in the air with a simple gesture. The circle glowed in shades of blue before releasing a gust of wind that swept through the room.

"This is a basic-level spell. However, by combining it with other forms of magic, it can become something far more devastating."

3. **"Enchantment"**

Lyria walked over to a table where several enchanted objects were displayed.

"Enchantments are magics applied to objects. They can strengthen weapons, create defenses, or grant special abilities. For this, the mage needs to create runes like these."

She pointed to a sword in the corner of the room that glowed with a golden light.

"This sword is enchanted with 'Enhanced Durability' and 'Flaming Impact.' A swordsman wielding it would have a clear advantage in battle."

Cael frowned. He still preferred simple swords, but he understood the value of an enchanted weapon.

4. **"Aura"**

"Aura, on the other hand, is the ability of a warrior or mage to concentrate their mana around their body for defense or attack. It's less refined than traditional magic but can be devastating in close combat."

She looked directly at Cael.

"As some of you have recently demonstrated..."

Cael felt the gazes turn toward him. During his fight with Kieran, he had used his aura explosively. It was a natural talent that he still needed to refine.

---

#### **Classification of Mages and Swordsmen**

Lyria went on to explain how the students were classified:

1. **"Mages"**

- **"Basic Class"**: Students who master only simple spells.

- **"Intermediate Class"**: Capable of combining spells and using basic enchantments.

- **"Advanced Class"**: Experts in creating complex magics and powerful enchantments.

- **"Archmages"**: Rare and extremely powerful. Usually teachers or members of royalty.

2. **"Swordsmen"**

- **"Basic Class"**: Use physical techniques with little magic.

- **"Intermediate Class"**: Incorporate aura and light enchantments into combat.

- **"Advanced Class"**: Masters of close combat, combining aura and magic.

- **"Rune Knights"**: Warriors who excel in enchanted swords and spells.

---

When the lesson ended, Lyria called Cael for a private conversation.

"You have extraordinary potential, Cael," she said in a serious tone. "But potential without control is dangerous, both for you and for others."

Cael nodded, understanding the gravity of her words.

"You've realized by now that you have unique abilities, haven't you?"

Cael hesitated before answering. "I think so. I've always been able to access my mana... instinctively."

Lyria smiled faintly. "And that's what makes you special."

**"Cael possesses a natural and instinctive mastery of 'aura,' capable of creating protective shields and devastating shockwaves in combat. He uses 'instinctive magic,' allowing him to cast basic spells without words or magical circles. His 'natural resistance' makes him stronger against physical and magical attacks. His combination of brute strength and magical talent makes him an extremely versatile combatant,"** Lyria thought.

---

After the conversation with Lyria, Cael began to realize he needed to change. In the following days, he tried to reconnect with his peers. Despite initial hesitation, Lana was the first to give him a chance.

"I saw what you did..." she said, hesitantly. "You really went too far, but I think you understand that now."

Ren and Marla also began talking to him again. Gradually, Cael started to feel that he could rebuild the trust of his class.