I'm The Devil - Chapter 246

Chapter 246: Hall Of Evaluation

Lucifer remained standing, his presence commanding as he faced the Archmage. “You understand that Elandor is no ordinary student,” he began, his voice steady and unyielding. “Before he agrees to stay here, I need to ensure that he will receive the best possible education and protection. His potential is immense, and it must be nurtured properly.”

The Archmage nodded thoughtfully. “I assure you, we will provide Elandor with the finest training and resources available. Our instructors are the best in their respective fields, and he will have access to all the academy’s facilities. However, given his exceptional abilities, we will need to tailor his education to his unique needs. It will require flexibility and dedication from both Elandor and our faculty.”

Lucifer’s expression remained stern. “I expect nothing less. Elandor’s safety is paramount. There are those who would seek to exploit his power for their own ends. You must be vigilant.”

The Archmage’s eyes softened slightly. “You have my word. We will protect him as one of our own. His well-being and growth are of utmost importance to us.”

Elandor, who had been listening intently, stepped forward. “What exactly will my training involve? And how will you ensure my safety?”

The Archmage turned to Elandor, his gaze warm but serious. “Your training will be comprehensive. We will assess your current abilities and identify areas for improvement. You will receive instruction in various magical disciplines, and we will work to refine and enhance your natural talents. As for your safety, we have numerous wards and protective spells in place. You will also be assigned a mentor who will guide you through your studies and ensure your well-being.”

Lucifer nodded, satisfied with the Archmage’s assurances. “Very well. One more thing before we proceed. Who exactly are you, Archmage?”

The Archmage smiled faintly. “I am Archmage Thalion, head of the Arcane Academy and guardian of its ancient knowledge. It is my duty to oversee the education and protection of our students, and to ensure the continuation of our magical traditions.”

Lucifer’s gaze remained unwavering. “You may call me Lucifer Morningstar. That is all you need to know about me. My past and my identity are not for you to pry into. All that matters is that Elandor receives the training he needs.”

Archmage Thalion inclined his head in acknowledgment. “Understood, Lucifer Morningstar. Your presence here is intriguing, and I respect your desire for privacy. Our focus will be on Elandor and his development. We will do everything in our power to help him realize his potential.”

Lucifer’s stern expression softened slightly. “Good. Elandor, this is your opportunity to grow and learn. Embrace it fully, but always remain vigilant. You have great power, and with it comes great responsibility.”

Elandor nodded, feeling a mixture of excitement and determination. “I understand, Master. I will do my best.”

The Archmage smiled warmly at Elandor. “Welcome to the Arcane Academy, Elandor. Your journey begins now. Let us proceed with the initial assessment and get you settled in.”

With that, the Archmage led Elandor and Lucifer out of the waiting chamber and into the heart of the academy. As they walked through the grand halls, Elandor couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and anticipation.

Elandor, Lucifer, and Archmage Thalion walked through the grand halls of the Arcane Academy, the surroundings echoing with the history and power of countless generations of mages. The walls were lined with portraits of former Archmages, their eyes seemingly following the trio as they passed by. Elaborate chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a warm, ambient light that accentuated the intricate runes etched into the stone floors.

As they turned a corner, a new figure entered their path. She was a striking woman with long, flowing golden hair and eyes the color of the deepest sapphires. Her presence radiated an aura of serenity and strength. She wore a simple yet elegant white robe, adorned with silver embroidery that glimmered faintly, suggesting her high status within the academy.

Lucifer’s attention was immediately captured by her. The world around him seemed to fade as he watched her approach. There was something otherworldly about her beauty, something that stirred emotions he hadn’t felt in centuries. As she walked past him, Lucifer found himself turning to follow her with his eyes, unable to look away.

The woman stopped in front of Archmage Thalion, her voice as melodic as a symphony. “Archmage Thalion, I have the reports you requested.”

Thalion nodded, accepting a scroll from her outstretched hand. “Thank you, Elara. Your diligence is always appreciated.”

Elara’s eyes then fell upon Elandor and Lucifer, a gentle smile gracing her lips. “I see we have new arrivals. Welcome to the Arcane Academy. I am Elara, the Head of Magical Arts.”

Elandor bowed slightly. “Thank you, Lady Elara. I am Elandor, and this is my master, Lucifer Morningstar.”

At the mention of his name, Elara’s eyes widened momentarily, but she quickly regained her composure. She extended her hand to Lucifer. “It is an honor to meet you both. I trust your stay here will be enlightening and rewarding.”

Lucifer took her hand, his touch lingering a moment longer than necessary. “The honor is mine, Lady Elara.”

Elara’s smile deepened, and for a brief moment, their eyes locked, an unspoken understanding passing between them. “If there is anything you need during your time here, please do not hesitate to ask.”

Archmage Thalion, observing the exchange, cleared his throat gently. “Elara, Elandor is here to undergo an initial assessment. We were just on our way to the Hall of Evaluation.”

“Of course,” Elara replied, her gaze returning to Elandor. “I will leave you to it, then. I look forward to seeing your progress, Elandor.”

As she walked away, Lucifer continued to watch her, a myriad of thoughts and feelings swirling within him. Elandor, noticing his master’s distraction, gave him a curious look but said nothing.

Archmage Thalion resumed their journey, leading them to a large set of double doors inlaid with ornate carvings depicting various magical symbols. “This is the Hall of Evaluation,” he said, pushing the doors open to reveal a vast chamber filled with an array of magical artifacts and instruments. “Elandor, this is where we will begin your assessment. We will measure your current abilities and determine the best path for your training.”

Elandor stepped forward, taking in the impressive sight before him. He felt a surge of determination, ready to prove himself worthy of the opportunities ahead. Lucifer, still shaken by his encounter with Elara, forced his focus back to the present, reminding himself of the importance of this moment for his apprentice.

As Elandor prepared for his assessment, Lucifer couldn’t help but cast one last glance in the direction Elara had gone, a flicker of curiosity and something deeper igniting within him.

As Elandor stood in the center of the Hall of Evaluation, Archmage Thalion moved to a nearby pedestal, placing his hands on a crystal orb. The orb glowed softly, activating the various magical instruments and artifacts around the room. The air hummed with energy, and a series of glowing symbols appeared on the floor, forming a circle around Elandor.

“Begin,” Thalion instructed, his voice resonating with authority.

The first test focused on elemental magic. The room transformed, creating illusions of the four elements. Elandor was asked to control a flame, conjure water, manipulate the earth, and summon a gust of wind. With remarkable ease, he mastered each element, his precision and power evident in every movement. The flames danced in perfect synchronization with his will, the water flowed with seamless grace, the earth molded effortlessly, and the wind responded to his slightest gesture.

Thalion observed with growing amazement, taking notes and nodding appreciatively. “Exceptional,” he murmured.

Next came the test of enchantments. Elandor was given several objects and asked to imbue them with various magical properties. He enchanted a stone to emit light, a piece of cloth to become unbreakable, and a staff to amplify spells. Each enchantment was flawlessly executed, the objects glowing with potent, stable magic.

“The precision and control required for such enchantments at your age… extraordinary,” Thalion remarked, clearly impressed.

The test for illusion magic followed. The room filled with complex visual and auditory distractions, designed to confuse and mislead. Elandor not only saw through the illusions but also created his own, crafting intricate and convincing illusions that left even Thalion momentarily bewildered.

“Your talent for illusion is truly remarkable,” Thalion said, his tone filled with genuine admiration.

In the test of alchemy, Elandor demonstrated his knowledge by identifying rare plants, mixing potions, and transmuting materials. His potions were perfectly brewed, and his transmutations flawless. The alchemical plants seemed to respond to him, their leaves shimmering with vitality.

“An alchemist of your caliber is a rare find indeed,” Thalion noted.

Finally, the test of defensive arts required Elandor to create barriers, deflect attacks, and ward off curses. His shields were impenetrable, his defensive spells cast with perfect accuracy and strength. Even the most advanced attack spells were effortlessly deflected, showcasing his profound understanding of defensive magic.

When the tests concluded, the room returned to its original state. Elandor stood at the center, breathing steadily, his expression calm and composed despite the demanding trials he had just faced. Archmage Thalion approached him, his eyes filled with respect and wonder.

“Elandor, your performance has been nothing short of perfect in every aspect of magic we have tested. Your potential is extraordinary, and it is clear that you possess a rare gift. The Arcane Academy will be honored to guide you on your journey to greatness.”

Lucifer, who had been observing with a mixture of pride and satisfaction, stepped forward. “Of course who did you think teach him all that before he came here?.”

Elandor laughed as they walked out of the Hall of Evaluation.