Beneath Dark Skies

Everybody Wants To Rule The World

"Today marks a significant milestone in our understanding of arcane energy. The effects of the Great Beginning continue to unfold, revealing both the potential and peril of this newfound power. My studies have led me to the conclusion that arcane energy, while immensely powerful, must be approached with caution and respect."

-Samuel Brooks, private journal, year unknown

The first class of the day was Advanced Arcane Studies with Vespian Black. As Izzy and I approached the classroom, my mind was still tangled up in thoughts of Kay. I still hadn’t confronted him about all that business with the Siren’s Dust. Part of me was scared because I knew he would just laugh in my face and deny every word I said. After all, that’s exactly who he was— infuriating, and completely unapologetic bastard.

My eyes drifted to the Guild Master.

His silver-streaked hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail, and his dark, tailored suit exuded authority and sophistication. He stood with an air of practiced nonchalance, as if he knew he commanded attention and respected those who could keep up with him. A faint hum emanated from a mechanical tube embedded in his neck, suggesting a complex past that piqued my curiosity. I couldn’t help but wonder how Professor Black had come to possess it. Did it assist with breathing? And did it hurt?

Inside, students were settling into their seats. Izzy and I chose spots at the back that offered a good view of the room. The classroom resembled an auditorium with tiered seating that rose in concentric circles around a central stage. Oval windows along the walls provided a panoramic view of a distant river and dense forest, from which strange sounds occasionally drifted. Drones hovered near the ceiling, their lights blinking as they monitored the room.

"Alright, students, please take your seats and let's begin," Vespian's voice rang out, resonant and authoritative, echoing through the expansive space.

He stood at the center of the auditorium, his dark eyes scanning the room. The mechanical tube in his neck emitted a faint hum as he began to speak.

"Today, we delve into the history that shaped our world. Centuries ago, a cataclysmic event known as the Great Beginning reshaped reality. This explosion of energy erased the old world, merging advanced technology with ancient arcane forces."

His words hung in the air, and I felt a chill. The Great Beginning wasn't just history; it felt deeply personal. My family's legacy was intertwined with these events.

"Before the Great Beginning, scientists were desperately seeking new energy sources. Among them was Dr. Alisante Winters, whose quest for sustainable solutions is believed to have contributed to the old world's collapse."

I shrank slightly in my seat at the mention of Dr. Winters. Great, just what I needed—another reminder of my family’s complicated legacy. Vespian’s historical recount wasn’t just a dry lecture; it loomed over me like a shadow, ready to swallow my entire existence whole. Each word felt like a little jab at my already frayed nerves, and I couldn’t help but wonder if I was trapped in a twisted episode recounting my family’s wrongdoings.

"In the aftermath, survivors discovered that the energy released had awakened latent magical abilities in some individuals. These newly empowered beings, Arcanists, began blending their powers with remnants of technology, giving rise to Arcane Science."

Vespian gestured to a holographic display that appeared behind him, showing key historical figures. "One of the first Arcanists was Samuel the Wise, who documented the effects of the Great Beginning and developed Arcane Science principles. He also founded the Arcane Science University, where you will study for at least three years.