Eldrin made his way downstairs, greeted by the sight of his wife Ylvara bustling about in the kitchen. She looked at him with a warm smile and asked, "Good morning, honey. How did you sleep?"
He knew better than to worry her with his late night walk and simply replied, "Like a rock."
Little did he know, his wife was always acutely aware of her husband's well-being. She had learned over the years that he was emotionally and physically strong, no matter what challenges he faced. She would only bring it up when he was ready to talk about it. And he always did in his own time.
"You must be excited for today. What time does the first lesson begin?" asked Ylvara.
Today was a significant day for Eldrin, as it marked the start of his official training in the arcane arts.
"I plan to leave shortly after breakfast, I want to get there early and get settled before class starts. No use worrying about everything all at once," replied Eldrin.
Even years after his service to the Empire, he still held onto the habit of arriving early rather than risk being late. It was ingrained in him by his time in service - if you're on time, you're late; if you're early, you're on time.
"In that case, let me make you a plate. I made some bacon, sausage, eggs, biscuits, and flapjacks," stated Ylvara. She always made more food than necessary, but it was her way of showing love for her husband. "Oh, and I almost forgot, I made these pumpkin bars from that cookbook you gave me. The picture looked delicious and with autumn starting, I thought you might like something different."
Eldrin's eyes widened with delight; he always enjoyed when his wife surprised him with new dishes to try. "Really? What else did you put in them besides pumpkin?"
Ylvara eagerly reached for the thick tome that her companion, Eldrin, had brought along on their journey. The leather cover was well-loved and worn, a sure sign of the many hands that had thumbed through its pages over the years. As she opened it up to the desired recipe, Ylvara couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation bubbling in her chest. And there, on the yellowed page, Eldrin read the words that Wellson Oakheart had inscribed:
The season's chill is setting in, and I’ve found myself craving something to warm both body and mind. As I rummaged through my collection of ancient texts and culinary tomes, I stumbled upon this recipe that was buried in the section on seasonal remedies and desserts was a curious recipe for Enlightened Pumpkin Bars, rumored to enhance clarity and arcane focus.
Recipe: Enlightened Pumpkin Bars
(Infused with the essence of seasonal herbs and arcane energy for clarity and focus)
Ingredients:
- 1 ? cups of freshly harvested enchanted pumpkin puree (from Oakheart’s famed Gleaming Gourds patch)
- Magical Property: Gleaming Gourds are known to heighten perception and give clarity to those who consume them.
- 1 cup of Golden Honey (sourced from bees who collect nectar from Solstice Flowers)
- Magical Property: Solstice Flowers bloom under the midsummer moon, giving this honey a slight energizing effect, perfect for wizards and alchemists in need of a focused mind.
- 2 cups of Faery Flour (a fine blend of wheat and ground Frost Lilies)
- Magical Property: The frost lily, a rare herb from the high mountains, has calming properties, balancing the energy of the Gleaming Gourds to avoid overwhelming clarity.
- ? cup of powdered Amber Cinnamon (Oakheart recommends sourcing this from Goldenroot Trees in the Autumnwood Forest)
- Magical Property: Known for protecting the soul from dark magic, Amber Cinnamon provides a subtle shield to the consumer.
- 2 teaspoons of Arcane Spice Blend (a proprietary mix of Sylvan Nutmeg, Saffron Leaves, and a pinch of ground Starvine seeds)
- Magical Property: This blend enhances the connection to the Weave, making it easier to focus on spellwork for a short time after eating.
- ? cup of softened Butterblossom Butter (butter derived from Butterblossom Cows, fed on golden alfalfa)
- Magical Property: Butter from these cows is said to promote longevity and rejuvenation, giving a sense of calm and vitality after consumption.
- 2 large eggs (from Moonshadow Hens)
- Magical Property: The eggs of Moonshadow Hens, laid only during full moons, are believed to sharpen the mind and boost memory for several hours after eating.
- 1 ? cups of cane sugar (infused with Sunleaf powder for a slight golden hue)
- Magical Property: Sunleaf sugar gives a mild energizing effect, balancing the relaxation of the Frost Lilies for an overall clear-headed and focused energy.
- 1 teaspoon of Verdant Vanilla Extract (Green Orchid extract aged in enchanted oak barrels)
- Magical Property: The Green Orchid’s essence is thought to bring mental clarity and sharpen intuition, often used in potions of insight.
- ? teaspoon of Ground Star Anise (adds a hint of sweetness and protects against harmful magic)
- Magical Property: Star Anise wards off negative energies and can enhance the magical flow within the body.
Topping:
- Whipped Cream infused with crushed Goldmint Leaves (Goldmint is a herb that enhances focus and boosts vitality).
Eldrin gazed up at his wife, smiling from ear to ear. Knowing that she was always thinking ahead and know what he needed to help him get through his day.
As Eldrin's lips curved into a grateful smile, he reached for his wife's hand and brought it to his lips, planting a gentle kiss on her knuckles. "Thank you, my love," he whispered, his voice filled with emotion. The warmth of their embrace lingered in the air as he took his seat at the breakfast table, ready to savor every bite of the meal she had prepared with love. As he ate, the fragrant aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted from his cup, mingling with the sweet scent of grizzled bacon and the new pumpkin treats. With each bite, Eldrin felt thankful not only for the delicious food but also for the love and happiness that filled their home
As the sun rose over the horizon, Eldrin quickly finished his breakfast and began to ready his trusty steed, Millie. With a kiss to his family goodbye, he mounted his horse and set off towards the heart of IronMane. The dirt road stretched out before him, lined with tall trees that danced in the gentle breeze. Birds chirped and squirrels scampered along the forest floor as Eldrin made his way out of the deep wilderness in which they loved. His heart swelled with nervousness for what the day may bring, and he couldn't wait to see what adventures awaited him and how they may unfold.
As he approached the town, his mind was filled with doubts and questions. Was he making the right decision? At his age, most adventurers were settling down, not taking on a new challenge like learning the arcane arts. It was something that younger versions of himself would have eagerly embraced, but now he felt broken and beaten down. He couldn't shake off the feeling that he was no longer capable of greatness, that he was just a shell of his former self. And yet, here he was, riding into Ironmane in pursuit of a new path.
As Eldrin rode through the bustling city streets, he marveled at the blend of old and new architecture that surrounded him. The town center was a hub of activity, with people milling about in every direction. In the heart of the town stood a grand clock tower, its intricate design reaching towards the sky. Surrounding it, in a perfect square, were shops of all kinds. Their storefronts displayed colorful wares and signs advertising their businesses. But amidst the ever-changing shops, there were some constants - the sturdy town hall, the bustling adventures guild, the watchful city guard, the towering library, and the prestigious Arcane University, also known as the Scholars & Mages Guild. This was truly the center of life in this vibrant city.
As Eldrin led Millie to the nearby stable, his gaze couldn't help but be drawn to the imposing tower of the Arcane University. Its towering height and intricate architecture left him in awe. "By the Divine, that's an impressive structure for knowledge," he mused to himself. "How can it possibly house all the tomes and artifacts that I've seen delivered to it?"
Despite years of passing by the university, Eldrin had never stepped foot inside its walls. But today, that would change. The tower was a magnificent sight, built with white and gray marble and adorned with highlights of shimmering blue arcane symbols that seemed to pulse with power. The sign above the entrance depicted a tome with a sunburst bursting through its pages, hinting at the vast knowledge and secrets contained within. Eldrin could feel his excitement growing as he approached the grand entrance. Today, he would finally have the chance to explore the wonders of the Arcane University for himself.
The building was massive in height, yet it was no wider than the Silver Stallion was, and yet there seemed to be an endless supply of tomes, scroll, artifacts, and mystical objects being brought inside every day. Eldrin’s mind struggled to comprehend how it could all possibly fit within those walls. He couldn't shake the feeling that some important piece of the puzzle was missing, leaving him with a sense of unease and confusion. Was this truly a place of learning, or was there more to this place than meets the eye?
As Eldrin approached the grand entrance of the Arcane University, he noticed an elderly gnome sitting on a weathered bench just outside the door. The gnome was deeply engrossed in a thick, leather-bound tome, its pages lined with ancient script that seemed to shimmer faintly in the morning light. The gnome’s robes were a deep violet, embroidered with intricate golden runes that occasionally flickered with a soft glow, a sign of the magic he wielded with ease. A silver beard flowed down his chest, contrasting sharply with the small, circular glasses perched on the end of his nose.
Noticing Eldrin’s approach, the gnome gently closed his book and looked up, his bright eyes twinkling with curiosity.
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"Good morning, young man," the gnome said in a voice that was surprisingly deep and resonant for someone his size. "I am Archmage Orryn, keeper of this hallowed place. Welcome to the Arcane University. How may I assist you?"
Eldrin stopped in his tracks, feeling a surge of nervousness. He hadn’t expected to speak with anyone yet and had not planned for this scenario. His thoughts scrambled to form an answer, making him feel unprepared and caught off guard. He had imagined a more solitary entry, one where he could slip through unnoticed and begin his studies without unnecessary interaction.
"Uh, I’m here to… to start my lessons," Eldrin stammered, his voice betraying his uncertainty. "I'm enrolled in the Arcane Arts class... to become more familiar with... or to learn the ways of the arcane," he added awkwardly, his words coming out more as a question than a confident statement. He hated feeling exposed like this, especially in front of a figure of authority, someone who surely saw through his nervousness.
Archmage Orryn chuckled softly, his eyes gleaming with understanding. "Ah, no need to fret, young one. You’re in the right place. All you need to do is present your Arcane Admission Coin from the Grand Arcanum. Once recognized, the wards protecting this sanctuary will open to you."
Eldrin’s heart skipped a beat as he suddenly remembered the coin, tucked away in his cloak pocket. For a brief moment, a cold wave of panic washed over him. He had nearly forgotten about it amidst the rush of thoughts swirling in his head. Hastily, he reached into his cloak and retrieved the coin, his movements abrupt and hurried, as though he feared he might already be late for some unseen appointment. The coin itself was no ordinary token—etched with runes that pulsed faintly as they connected with his magical essence. It felt heavier than before, almost alive in his hand.
As he pulled it out, he held it in his palm for a moment, staring down at the shimmering surface. The intricate carvings on its face shifted slightly, a visual reminder that this was a key not only to a place but to a deeper well of power he had yet to fully comprehend. It glinted in the early light, as if the coin itself was whispering promises of the arcane knowledge that awaited him within the university's ancient halls.
The Arcane Admission Coin is a finely crafted token, intricately designed to serve as proof of acceptance into the prestigious Arcane University across the realm. Its gleaming surface radiates a faint, otherworldly shimmer, constantly shifting as if infused with latent magic. The coin is forged from some rare and magical metal known for its affinity with arcane energy. It appears silver under normal light but emits a soft blue glow when exposed to magic. Slightly larger than a standard coin, its circumference is perfectly circular, with the edges delicately beveled. The feel is cool to the touch, and it seems to pulse faintly with life, reacting to the presence of its rightful owner.
The front of the coin bears a raised sigil, depicting an open arcane tome surrounded by seven powerful runes that represent the seven schools of magic; Illusion, Conjuration, Divination, Wardcraft, Elemental Forcecraft, Restoration, and Enchantment. These symbols seem to constantly shift and shimmer, reflecting the ever-changing nature of magic itself. Surrounding the central design are ancient runes etched in a forgotten language, glowing with a faint protective aura that guards against any attempts at forgery or alteration.
On the back of the coin, the insignia of the prestigious Arcane University is meticulously engraved, representing the esteemed institution that only the most skilled and dedicated students have the privilege to attend. Along the rim, a barely visible enchantment seal lies dormant until activated by its rightful owner, signaling to all gatekeepers and sentries that this bearer holds official permission to enter the college.
But this coin serves a greater purpose than simply granting entry. It is attuned to its accepted student, glowing with a brilliant light when held by its rightful owner. However, should it fall into the wrong hands or be stolen, all magical properties are rendered null and void. When presented at the gates of the college, the ancient runes come alive, confirming not only the bearer's identity but also their potential for great arcane power.
Inside the walls of the college, this coin becomes more than just a symbol—it is a crucial key that unlocks restricted areas based on the bearer's level of clearance. With each use, it further solidifies their status as a chosen one among many.
This Arcane Admission Coin is more than a simple piece of metal; it is a powerful tool woven deep into the very fabric of magic itself. And for those who possess it, it serves as a constant reminder of their true potential as future wielders of immense arcane power within the hallowed halls of the Arcane University.
Obtaining such a coin required earning it from the Grand Arcanum and demonstrating to the High Council that you were worthy of learning the Arcane Arts. Only with their approval would you receive a coin, and only with that coin could you gain entrance into the Arcane halls.
As Eldrin approached the towering doors of the Arcane University, the ancient runes etched into the stone around the entrance began to hum softly. Their once dormant lines flared to life, glowing with a brilliant blue light, each rune shifting and twisting as though reacting to his presence. The magical symbols moved fluidly, like a puzzle unlocking itself, as if the door recognized him not merely by sight, but by the power he carried.
The torches lining the entrance flared to life in unison, casting flickering shadows across the walls. Their flames were not of ordinary fire, but ethereal, dancing in hues of violet and emerald. The air around them shimmered with latent magic, charged with the ancient energy of countless sorcerers who had passed through these gates before.
With a low, resonating hum, the doors slowly swung open, revealing the vast, mysterious interior of the college beyond. Eldrin stood for a moment at the threshold, feeling the immense weight of the arcane knowledge contained within those walls pressing down on him, beckoning him forward.
He carefully slipped the Arcane Admission Coin back into a secret compartment sewn into his cloak, the fabric rustling softly as he concealed it. The compartment itself had been enchanted, a hidden pocket crafted by skilled hands, designed to shield the coin from unwanted eyes or scrying magic. With the coin safely stowed, he took a deep breath, steadying himself.
Then, without hesitation, Eldrin stepped across the threshold and proceeded forward. The air inside felt different—thicker, almost palpable with magic. It clung to his skin like a soft veil, making the hair on his arms stand on end. The faint sound of echoing footsteps and distant whispers drifted through the hall, as if the college itself was alive, observing his every movement.
As Eldrin stepped through the towering doors of the Arcane University, he was immediately struck by the sheer impossibility of the space before him. From the outside, the building seemed modest, almost humble, nestled among the city's spires and bustling streets. But the inside? It defied all logic. The atrium stretched upward, with ceilings so high they vanished into a haze of shimmering light. Sprawling staircases wound around the room's perimeter, seemingly leading to endless tiers of chambers, each lined with towering bookshelves crammed with ancient tomes, scrolls, and arcane artifacts. The walls themselves seemed alive with magical glyphs and faint hums of power, as though the very fabric of the university was infused with centuries of knowledge.
Eldrin stood frozen, his mouth slightly agape. His mind struggled to reconcile the modest exterior with the vast expanse within. "This... this is impossible," he muttered under his breath. He marveled at the intricate stonework, the enchanted banners floating gently above him, and the glowing, floating orbs of light that illuminated the chamber.
"How could so much exist inside something so small?" he whispered to himself, still in awe. It felt as though he had stepped into another dimension entirely.
Before he could take another step, a figure approached—graceful, poised, and radiating a quiet but formidable power. A high elf, with silver hair cascading down his shoulders, dressed in deep emerald robes adorned with silver sigils and runes. His eyes gleamed with the wisdom of centuries.
"Good morning, young sir," the elf said with a warm yet commanding voice. "Welcome to Arcanum University. I am Archmage Thesalor." He paused, studying Eldrin with a knowing smile. "You seem taken aback by our humble entrance. It’s always delightful to see a new student marvel at what’s within."
Eldrin managed to tear his gaze from the spiraling staircases and face the archmage. "It's... incredible. I had no idea so much was hidden behind those walls."
Thesalor on chuckled softly, "Ah, appearances can be deceiving, especially when one dabbles in the arcane. But come, there is much to learn, and your journey begins now."
With a fluid motion, Thesalor gestured for Eldrin to follow him.
As Eldrin followed Archmage Thesalor through the winding corridors and hallways of the Arcanum University, he couldn't help but let his eyes wander. The staircases they passed seemed to defy gravity, spiraling in all directions, leading to hidden chambers and lofty towers. Some appeared to stretch upward into nothingness, while others wound sideways as if twisting into unseen dimensions. Each hallway was more bizarre and wondrous than the last, as if the very architecture was an expression of the arcane itself.
The walls seemed alive. Hung upon them were what appeared to be windows at first glance, but as Eldrin studied them, he realized they were not mere views of the outside world. Each one was a window into other realms, shifting scenes of distant lands and mystical places. Some showed lush, verdant forests, while others depicted storm-swept mountains or fiery wastelands, all brimming with life and motion. It was as if the walls of the university housed entire worlds within them, each one its own living entity.
Glowing torches lined the corridors, but these were unlike any he had seen before. Their flames flickered in colors that seemed unnatural—deep blue, vibrant green, radiant yellow—each casting an otherworldly glow that danced along the stone walls. As Eldrin walked by, the light shifted and pulsed as though sensing his presence, almost as if the flames were alive.
His gaze drifted down a side hallway, and there, to his astonishment, he saw books—hundreds of them—floating lazily in the air. They glided through the room like birds, their pages fluttering open as if they were conversing with one another. Some of the tomes had ancient runes glowing on their covers, while others emitted soft, melodic hums. It was as though knowledge itself was alive here, moving freely, unhindered by the constraints of shelves or gravity.
Eldrin’s senses were overwhelmed, every turn revealing something new, something magical. Just as he was lost in wonder, he suddenly realized the elf had stopped ahead of him. He quickly hurried to catch up, his heart racing from both excitement and the surreal experience he was immersed in.
Archmage Thesalor stood still, his back to Eldrin, in front of an enormous door made of dark, polished wood. Intricate carvings of mythical creatures and arcane symbols adorned its surface, glowing faintly in the dim light. The air around them felt charged, as though the very fabric of magic itself was present in the space they now stood.
"Take it all in, young one," Thesalor said, his voice calm and knowing. " Arcanum University is not like any place you’ve known. It is alive, constantly shifting, evolving... much like the magic you will soon wield. Here, even the walls have secrets, and the air hums with power."
Eldrin nodded, still breathless from everything he had seen. "It feels like the whole building is... aware."
Thesalor smiled, a twinkle in his eye. "That’s because it is. The university is more than just stone and mortar. It’s ancient, older than you can imagine, and it holds centuries of arcane energy. Every hallway, every stairway, every flicker of flame has been imbued with power."
With a subtle motion, the great door creaked open, revealing a vast, circular chamber beyond. At the center was an enormous bookstand, surrounded by glowing sigils and hovering tomes. The room was bathed in soft blue light, the air thick with the scent of parchment and old ink.
"This is where you will begin your studies," Thesalor said as he stepped inside. "Here, knowledge waits to be unlocked, but beware, for it requires more than just curiosity. It demands focus, discipline, and, above all, a willingness to sacrifice."
Eldrin swallowed hard, his throat tightening as anxiety clawed at his chest. The vastness of the university the impossible expanse of it, its living essence shifting around him, and the overwhelming promise of arcane knowledge was both thrilling and utterly terrifying. His heart raced, a familiar panic creeping in, making his breath shallow. It was a feeling he knew all too well, the same dread that haunted him when he lay awake at night, when the memories of past battles and lost friends surfaced unbidden.
His mind flashed back, uninvited, to moments he'd tried to bury. The screams, the smoke, the weight of failure pressing on him when he couldn't save them…. couldn’t save himself. His hands trembled slightly as he clenched them into fists, forcing the ghosts back. This place, this new chapter, was supposed to be a fresh start, a chance to move forward. Yet even here, surrounded by wonders, the familiar shadows of doubt whispered in his ears.
For a brief second, he hesitated. What if he wasn’t ready? What if the pressure of learning, of unlocking the secrets of the arcane, broke him as the past had? What if he crumbled again?
But beneath the anxiety, beneath the ever-present hum of fear, there was a flicker of something else….determination. He had survived. Despite everything, despite the pain and the sleepless nights, he was still standing. He had walked through darkness and come out the other side, scarred but alive. And if he had endured that, maybe, just maybe, he could endure this too.
Taking a deep breath, Eldrin forced his gaze forward. He wasn’t just standing in a magical university…he was standing on the edge of something new. Something different. He could feel the potential in the air around him, the promise of knowledge and power. But more than that, it was the promise of healing. Maybe here, in these ancient halls, he could finally find peace…or at least learn how to quiet the storms inside.
"I'm..." his voice cracked slightly, and he swallowed again, steadying himself. He felt the weight of Thesalor’s gaze on him, and the quiet, patient expectancy in the air. This was the moment. His moment.
"I'm ready," Eldrin said, though the words felt fragile on his lips, trembling with the weight of uncertainty. But deep down, in the pit of his soul, there was a flicker of resolve…small, but growing. He wasn’t just saying it to Thesalor. He was saying it to himself, willing himself to believe it, to be more than the man who had been broken.
With that quiet resolve, he stepped forward into the chamber, ready to face whatever lay ahead—not just in the university, but within himself.