Anomaly: Lord of mysteries

Chapter 8: A Magician's Resolve

Alex's POV

It has been more than a year since I arrived in this world. During this time, I have meticulously followed my path, adhering to the principles of digestion for each potion. My Clown potion has been nearly fully digested, and with Raphael's guidance, I've acquired additional abilities from the Door and Error pathways.

As I prepared for the next step in my journey, the words Klein had once spoken echoed in my mind:

"Although being capable of knowing a little about fate, one remains helpless towards fate; therefore, one might as well use a smiling face to hide all the pain, sorrow, confusion, and depression."

The wisdom in those words became clear during my journey as a Seer and Clown. The path to becoming a Beyonder wasn't just one of power—it was one of endurance and adaptability.

After another month of effort, I fully digested the Clown potion. The moment had arrived. I ordered the system to prepare the Magician potion, and after a brief wait, I drank it.

The transformation was surreal. For a few minutes, my vision distorted, my senses disoriented, and then everything snapped into focus. I could feel the newfound power coursing through me. The system's voice echoed in my mind:

[Status Panel]

Name: Alex Holmes

Pathways: Error, Door, Fool

Sefirah Castle: Full Control (Mastered)

Sequence: Sequence 7 [Magician, Cryptologist, Astrologer]

Uniqueness: Fool, Error, Door

Unique Ability: Anomaly

Abilities Gained:

Magician Abilities: Spell-like skills with high casting speeds, damage transfer, flaming jumps, air bullets, paper figurine substitutes, and illusions among others.

Strengthened Traits: Enhanced spirituality, dexterity, and ritualistic magic, allowing for greater control over the spiritual world and advanced mastery of mundane magic tricks.

My understanding of the pathways grew, and with it, my control over Sefirah Castle and its immense power. However, this progress also came with a realization: Tingen City was no longer the place for me.

Raphael confirmed my thoughts. "Master, your abilities and goals require a larger stage. Tingen is a quiet harbor, but for a ship like yours, the open sea of Backlund is where you belong."

I nodded. "Backlund, the City of Hope. It's time to move forward. There, I'll have better opportunities to digest the Magician potion and explore the deeper mysteries of this world. I'll also establish a new identity to avoid unwanted attention."

Next Day

The morning sun cast a warm glow over Tingen as I made my way to the antique shop for what would be the last time. Richards greeted me with his usual warm smile, though his expression shifted to concern when he saw my packed bag.

"Leaving?" he asked quietly.

I nodded, taking a deep breath. "Yes, Richards. It's time. There's a lot out there I need to see and do."

Richards' face softened with understanding, though I could see the sadness in his eyes. "You've been like a son to me, Alex. This place will feel empty without you."

I smiled, touched by his words. "You've been more than a mentor to me, Richards. I'll never forget everything you've taught me, not just about antiques but about life."

He chuckled, wiping at his eyes. "Well, make sure you write or visit when you can. And if you need anything—anything at all—you know where to find me."

"I will," I promised.

As I left the shop, a part of me felt heavy, but I knew this was the right step. Staying here would only hinder my progress and draw attention that neither I nor Richards could afford.

Omniscient POV

The train to Backlund was crowded, filled with people chasing their dreams and ambitions in the sprawling city. Alex sat by the window, gazing at the passing scenery. He thought about his future plans.

Becoming a detective in Backlund was a natural choice. It aligned with his dream and would also allow him to discreetly immerse himself in Beyonder circles. By carefully using his Magician and other pathway abilities, he could build a reputation and gain the connections he needed to advance further.

But first, there were steps to take—establishing a new identity, finding a place to live, and navigating the labyrinthine society of Backlund.

Alex leaned back in his seat, a faint smile playing on his lips. The road ahead was long, but it was full of promise.

As the train approached Backlund, Alex muttered under his breath, "Let's see where this path takes me. The City of Hope awaits."

The End