Embracing Magic - E.M Chapter 126 (Part 2)

“It’s an awakening.”

The two observed the process calmly. An awakening marked the ascent from one circle to the next, a rare and transformative moment.

Though only 15 years old, Rodin had reached the seventh circle—two years faster than the previous record holder, Princess Elanerien.

Rodin’s body began to reshape, indicating a full transformation. As time passed, Karis and Jena stood guard, preparing for whatever challenges might come next.

While Rodin’s transformation continued, the remnants of the battlefield quieted. The burnt remains of the massive monster emitted no further movement or sound. Karis and Jena remained vigilant, watching over their master.

“It’s taking longer than usual.”

“Agreed. It’s not like the awakenings we’ve seen before.”

Karis tilted her head slightly, still gripping her weapon tightly.

Awakening to the seventh circle was not something she or Jena had personally experienced, but they had witnessed it many times in the days of the Empire. In those times, seventh-circle mages were not as rare as they were now, and they often saw talented individuals ascend under the guidance of their creator, Princess Elanerien.

However, Rodin’s awakening felt different. The sheer force and intensity of his energy far exceeded what they had seen before.

“It’s closer to the intensity of an eighth-circle awakening.”

“Yes, but the structure remains at seven circles. Master always did have a unique affinity for magic.”

The swirling energy around Rodin eventually began to calm. The raging storm of mana dissipated, but not before leaving the ground scorched and the air heavy with the scent of burning.

Suddenly, both Karis and Jena stiffened.

“Someone is approaching.”

“Left side, Karis. I’ll cover the right.”

With swift and practiced movements, the two combat dolls positioned themselves to shield Rodin. In the distance, a group of figures appeared, numbering nearly a hundred. They were all robed and hooded, their clothing marked by a uniform shade of blue.

“Mages.”

“Indeed.”

Karis tightened her grip on her weapon as one of the figures stepped forward, pulling back his hood to reveal an older man with a calm yet imposing demeanor.

“So, a grand mage is born in such an unlikely place. Fascinating, truly fascinating.”

The man’s voice carried a light tone, but his words immediately put Karis and Jena on edge. They stepped closer to Rodin, blocking the stranger’s view.

“Halt. Our lord is in a critical state and must not be disturbed.”

“I understand,” the man replied with a placating gesture. “Rest assured, I have no intention of intruding. I merely wished to observe.”

Karis and Jena exchanged a brief glance before nodding.

“We appreciate your understanding.”

Even as the man backed off slightly, the two remained firmly in place. They knew better than to trust the word of a stranger, especially one who traveled with such a large and organized group.

The man observed the aftermath of the battle. The forest was devastated, the ground torn apart, and the charred remains of the monster lay as an unmistakable centerpiece.

“That creature—your doing?”

“Yes. Our master’s magic finished it off.” Jena answered simply, giving full credit to Rodin.

“I see. A menace of the continent dealt with by such a young mage. Remarkable. Though I’m no representative of the entire land, allow me to offer my gratitude for what you’ve accomplished.”

“We’ll relay your words when our lord awakens.”

The man stroked his beard, seemingly satisfied.

“Ah, I should introduce myself. I am Francis, the tower lord of the Landes Tower.”

At his introduction, Karis and Jena’s expressions subtly hardened.

The Landes Tower was one of the Four Great Towers, institutions renowned across the continent for their magical prowess and influence. Rodin had taught them about these towers during their travels, and they knew Landes Tower was a force to be reckoned with.

Recognizing the weight of the man’s identity, Jena introduced herself.

“I am Jena, guardian to our lord.”

Karis, however, remained silent, her grip on her spear firm and ready.

“Relax, I mean no harm. We’ll step back and observe from a distance. Take your time.”

“Thank you. We’d appreciate it.”

With a small nod, Francis gestured to his followers, and they moved further away, establishing a perimeter that still allowed them to watch from afar. Only after a safe distance was established did Karis and Jena ease their posture slightly.

“They’re retreating.”

“For now.”

Despite their wariness, the two combat dolls resumed their vigil over Rodin. His transformation was far from over, and until he was safe, their mission to protect him was their top priority.

Time passed slowly, but the two never faltered. Even as hours went by and Rodin’s body continued its intense restructuring, they remained at his side, prepared for whatever threat might emerge.

The battlefield was silent, save for the occasional rustle of wind and the distant murmurs of the Landes Tower mages. In this uneasy calm, Karis and Jena remained steadfast, unwavering in their loyalty.