After Rai Tenma finished his speech, someone nearby shouted at him.
"Hey! I want to become a Champion too!"
"Yeah, that's not just your goal!"
Dante looked over and thought to himself,'Champion... It must be an important title here.'
Once everyone had completed their self-introductions, the professor began explaining the path of an Artificer. He started from the very beginning: the Foundation level.
"The ultimate goal," he explained, "is to create a core within yourself—a self-contained internal system. Based on the components you construct within it, this system will grant you magical powers. These can include elemental manipulation, enhanced physical strength, or heightened mental capabilities."
He went on to explain that becoming an Artificer is just one of many possible Paths of Ascension, but it's the most technologically advanced and flexible path, offering an almost limitless range of possibilities. However, with that potential comes overwhelming complexity.
"For example," the professor continued, "you can dedicate parts of your internal platform to components that increase your agility, energy storage, magic transport efficiency, and more."
There are seven levels in total:Foundation, Framework, Engine, Circuit, Core, Cathedral, and finally, Champion.
In addition, there are individuals born with special innate talents known as Core Talents. These individuals are referred to as the Awakened. Most of their abilities relate to the mind—just like Dante, who possesses a unique, though currently unknown, talent.
However, the professor emphasized that talent only plays a supportive role. While it may enhance growth rate, offer advantages in certain fields, or provide access to exclusive skills, it is not the most important factor.
"What truly matters is resources," the professor said firmly. "And those are limited—not everyone has equal access."
The Foundation level can be achieved without external help, simply by harnessing one's inner power. However, advancing beyond that requires external resources, often rare and expensive.
"To reach Foundation," the professor explained, "you must undergo intense meditative focus to shape your internal space. This involves willingly burning a portion of your life energy to ignite your inner dimension. The process must be stabilized through mental discipline or guided externally. Failure can lead to premature aging, exhaustion, or even permanent vitality loss."
Once you've successfully opened your Foundation, you can either improve it or move directly to building the Framework. This phase absolutely requires resources. The most common material used to construct Framework components is Gear, forged from Essentium Crystals, which also serve as trading currrency.
"But remember," he warned, "make sure your Foundation is solid enough to support your structure. If it's too weak, your system will collapse. Proceed at your own risk."
"That's all you need to know for now," the professor said. "I'll teach you how to build your Foundation later. Today is just about introductions—giving you an idea of how the Artificer system works and how immense its potential is. If you're curious, I recommend reading up on its history of development."
Then, with a grin, he added, "Finally, I have a little gift for you all. Want to see how an Artificer actually uses their power? This is the really exciting part. Just say yes or no."
Everyone instantly shouted, "Yes!"
"Great. Now, I'm not going to demonstrate myself, but I'll take you to one of two destinations. You get to choose. First, the arena, where you'll see Artificers fight in real combat. Second, the factory, where you can witness the forging of Gear and the assembly of Ethergineering. Raise your hands to vote."
After a short moment of deliberation, the majority chose the arena. After all, watching people fight sounded way more fun.
Solène excitedly waved her hand in the air."Arena, here we come! I hope someone does a cool flip or something!"
Dante glanced at her, puzzled."Really? That's what you're excited for? He clearly said they'll be fighting."
And with that, the whole class left the room, heading toward the arena.
The Arena was a must-have in any Artificer Academy. Located just a short walk from the school building, it served as the battleground where students showcased their skills, gained recognition, and even earned money based on how many viewers they attracted. Normally, tickets were required to enter, but since the professor invited the class, he covered the cost himself.
'What a kind person,' Dante thought.
Inside the stadium, there were thousands of seats, and nearly half were already filled. Dante had never seen so many people in one place before.
'So this is where everyone's been... No wonder the streets and school felt so empty earlier. They must really love watching fights.'
While waiting for the next match to begin, Dante found a seat and stared up at the match announcement board. On the blue side was a picture of a man named Jerek Vance.
'Vance? That sounds familiar... wasn't there a little boy in my class named something Vance? I think someone mentioned he's from a legacy Clan.'
Dante looked around, spotting the boy and approached him.
"Hey, um… I forgot your name. Can you reintroduce yourself?"
Iro Vance turned toward him with an annoyed gleam in his eye.
"Ahem. I am Iro Vance of the great Clan Vance. How dare you forget my name?"
"Sorry, sorry," Dante said quickly, scratching the back of his head with an awkward smile. "I'm just bad with names. Could you maybe… emphasize it a bit more?"
Iro scowled and turned away with a little "tsk" from his lips.
Dante stood frozen for a moment.'I wanted to ask him if he knows anything about that Jerek Vance on the board, but... after that first impression, I guess I should wait. Ugh, why does talking to people feel so hard?'
Fortunately, he didn't have to stay in his thoughts for long, as a booming voice echoed across the stadium.
"Everyone, get ready for the next match! A clash between two rising stars of legacy clans—an explosive showdown you won't want to miss!"
'So this is a battle between two powerful legacies… No wonder Professor Thamus brought us here immediately after class. He must be a real enthusiast.'