Chapter 12 Vast Possibilities

With Lumi's caution, I realized that I had to acknowledge the limitations of my own body. The allure of wielding multiple powers was tempting, but the potential consequences were too dire to ignore. I nodded, acknowledging Lumi's advice, "I think I will not surrender to reckless experimentation. Just knowing I can use magic is amazing to me. So, any recommendations on what to pick?"

Lumi's delicate finger gently pressed against her soft lips as she delved into deep thought. After a brief moment of thinking, she began to share her knowledge, her voice filled with a sweet innocence that held a touch of wisdom.

"Hmmm, when it comes to magic, one of the most useful branches would be earth magic," Lumi explained, her voice carrying a hint of excitement. "With earth magic, you can mold the very foundations of the world around you. Imagine being able to construct sturdy stone shelters, and towering walls, and even manipulate the very ground beneath your feet. It is perfect for building and construction, and its defensive capabilities are one of the best. Additionally, earth magic can unleash formidable offensive powers, allowing you to shape the battlefield to your advantage. You can even harvest metals with earth magic."

Lumi's eyes sparkled as she continued, "Another powerful branch is ice magic. It possesses both defensive and offensive capabilities. With ice magic, you can create intricate ice objects, such as tough ice walls or even an entire house. Its versatility is truly great, limited only by one's imagination. Ice magic can be both a shield to protect and a weapon to strike, making it a highly sought-after skill among magic users."

Her gaze turned thoughtful as she shifted to another aspect, "And then there's wind magic, like the one my big sister specializes in. Wind magic is fascinating because its effectiveness greatly depends on how it's utilized. It can be harnessed for agility and speed, allowing one to maneuver swiftly in battles or evade enemy attacks. Additionally, wind magic can amplify the power of offensive spells, making it formidable in skilled hands."

Lumi's expression brightened as she shared her insights, "When it comes to balance, both ice and earth magic offers the best results. They provide a well-rounded set of skills that can adapt to various situations. However, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and fight style."

Her voice grew animated as she touched upon the different magical focuses, "For pure offensive might, choose to specialize in gravity, fire, wind, or ice magic, harnessing the raw destructive forces of nature. For defense, there are protective barriers, sturdy earth manipulation, and the resilience of ice. And for those who prefer a supportive role, healing, light, and water magic can offer aid and restoration to allies."

Lumi concluded with a gentle smile, "These branches of magic, earth, ice, wind, and more, are highly sought after due to their versatility and practical applications. However, magic is a vast and ever-evolving field, and there is always room for exploration and discovery. It's an exciting world to be a part of, don't you think?"

The magnitude of the choices overwhelmed me, as my mind raced to comprehend the vast possibilities before me.

 "Oh wow, there are so many options. It's going to take some careful consideration and thought," I remarked, feeling excited.

Lumi nodded, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glimmer. 

"Indeed, there are numerous magic boxes in our realm. However, for now, you will only have access to three of them," she explained, a note of regret in her voice.

Curiosity piqued, I asked, "Why is that? Are the rest of them off-limits?"

Lumi leaned in, her voice filled with a mix of caution and intrigue. "The other magical boxes are located in treacherous, monster-infested territories, deep within dangerous forests. Usually, those who seek the magic boxes must join a Guild or the Magic Investigation Society (MIS) to form a group capable of escorting them to the magic boxes and ensuring their safety. As a newcomer to our world, you are not yet a member of either organization." 

"So if I understand correctly, I cannot obtain magic from these boxes unless I become a member of a guild or join the MIS. But you mentioned three specific magic boxes that I can access. What makes them different?"

"Ah, those three magic boxes are unique. You see, the town we are in right now was established by Helen, the ruler of Luminecia, and she strategically built it around these particular magic boxes. They are ice, fire, and wind."

She paused for a moment, her expression turning slightly more serious, "However, to gain access to these extraordinary magics, you would need Helen's approval, or in more dire circumstances, even the endorsement of Valerius, one of the council members of Luminecia. Valerius, being a part of the MIS, is responsible for overseeing and safeguarding magical activities within our town."

I was excited to delve deeper into the realm of magic as I asked, "So, when can we arrange a meeting with Helen? She seemed more approachable and understanding compared to Valerius."

Lumi paused for a moment, her brows furrowing in thought. "Well, tomorrow could work. I have a scheduled session with Helen for Luminecia's crystal tuning, and during that time, we could also discuss the matter of the magic box. However, it's getting late now, and we should probably call it a day. By the way, Kazuki, do you remember the way back to your room?"

A playful grin danced across my lips as I reassured her, "Of course, Lumi! I have an incredible sense of direction, you know. Finding my way back to the room won't be a problem at all."

With a mixture of relief and trust, Lumi nodded and stood up from the table. "Alright then, Kazuki. I trust you'll find your way back. We'll meet again tomorrow morning, bright and early. Meet me at my lab."

As we bid each other goodnight, a sense of anticipation and curiosity hung in the air. Tomorrow held the promise of obtaining the magic. With a happy stride, I made my way through the palace corridors, guided by the crystal light and the echoes of my own footsteps.

As I entered my room, a rush of emotions flooded over me. The events of the day replayed in my mind like scenes from a fantastical dream. Being summoned to a new world, the encounter with Lumi, the assassin who nearly snatched my life, and the captivating mysteries that awaited me in Luminecia's magical realm. I couldn't help but feel a surge of adrenaline coursing through my veins, igniting a fire within me.

Settling onto my bed, my thoughts swirled with visions of the enchanting Lumi. Tomorrow would bring answers, challenges, and perhaps even dangers unknown. But I was ready. Ready to test the limits of my own abilities, and to protect Lumi, my newfound love. From the first moment I saw her, she stole my heart. 

As the morning light streamed through the windows, a gentle knock on the door stirred me from my slumber. Still groggy and half-asleep, I mumbled, "Just five more minutes, Mom."

To my surprise, a flirtatious voice responded, "Ara ara, I'm not your mom, Kazuki, you naughty little boy. It's time to rise and shine, Lumi eagerly waits for your company. It is not very nice to make a lady wait."

Blinking away the remnants of sleep, I opened my eyes and found Alitia standing by the doorway, a playful glint in her eyes. The realization washed over me like a wave - yesterday's extraordinary events of being summoned to another world were not a mere dream but a reality.

Sweeping aside any remnants of sleep, I rose from the bed, my mind abuzz with questions and a sense of adventure. Alitia walked closer and said, "I will be joining you and Lumi today, I hear you are going to meet with Helen. I might even put a good word for you."

"I would appreciate it if you did. I suspect it won't be a simple matter of asking politely for permission to possess the magic box power." 

"Hmmm... Indeed, the power contained within the magic box is not to be taken lightly. It is a formidable force that must be wielded responsibly and with utmost caution. Just imagine if it were to fall into the wrong hands, unleashing chaos and destruction. The power of the magic box shall be granted solely to those who swear unwavering loyalty to the town and its ruler." 

I straightened my posture, meeting Alitia's gaze. "I understand the significance of this trust, Alitia. I vow to protect and wield the power of the magic box with care. I will prove myself worthy of this privilege."

A small smile graced Alitia's lips, a glimmer of approval in her eyes. "Your words carry weight, Kazuki. But I think it's time to go, let's not make Lumi wait."

We made our way through the bustling streets of Luminecia, the city alive with the vibrant energy of its inhabitants. The sunlight danced upon the cobblestone pathways, casting playful shadows as we walked. Lumi followed alongside me, her eyes gleaming with anticipation and a touch of nervousness.

As we approached Helen's abode, a grand mansion adorned with intricate magical sigils, Alitia's presence seemed to command respect from the guards stationed at the entrance. They stepped aside, allowing us passage into the premises. The interior of the mansion exuded an air of elegance and sophistication, with priceless artifacts and magical trinkets adorning every corner.