First Legendary Dragon: Starting With The Limitless System

"Good morning, students," Lysandra began warmly, her words flowing like a gentle stream. "Welcome to 'Verdant Harmony.' Today, we'll explore the basics of the Wood Element—the origin, its core principles, and its various practical applications."

She paused, allowing the students a moment to settle into attentive silence, then continued gracefully.

"The Wood Element, among all core elements, is fundamentally tied to life itself. Unlike Fire, Water, or Thunder, it embodies growth, nurturing, and harmony with nature. Our ancestors first discovered the Wood Element through their profound interactions with forests, plants, and living ecosystems."

"Ancient texts suggest that the earliest Wood affinity mages emerged among those who deeply communed with nature, learning to sense and guide the subtle flow of life energy in plants."

Orion listened attentively, absorbing every word. Though familiar with some general concepts, he had never considered the historical context or deeper philosophical implications behind the Wood Element.

Lysandra continued, her voice gentle yet authoritative. "From these roots emerged various applications. The Wood Element excels at support, providing unmatched versatility in battlefield control, terrain manipulation, and healing."

"Skilled Wood affinity mages can rapidly reshape the battlefield, erect defensive barriers, or entangle opponents. Equally valuable is their ability to heal allies by using the wood energy. There are various ways, and one of them is using high grade plants to trade the life force of it to heal someone—but this is used when one is low on mana as most use their mana as the fuel to cast out the spell to heal."

"We can also use our mana to accelerate the growth of plants and trees." The class remained captivated as she raised one elegant hand. With a gentle wave and short murmur, a small plant sprouted from the wooden desk beside her, rapidly growing into a vibrant flowering bush, lush and vividly green.

The demonstration elicited murmurs of awe from the students, many leaning forward with heightened interest.

"Now," Lysandra continued, smiling softly, "this basic technique demonstrates life stimulation—a foundational Wood Element skill. Are there any questions so far?"

Several hands immediately rose. Lysandra selected a student near the middle of the room, who asked eagerly, "Instructor, how deeply can Wood affinity mages manipulate the life force of plants? Could they control entire forests?"

Lysandra nodded approvingly, responding gently, "A wonderful question. At advanced tiers, yes, powerful Wood affinity mages can influence extensive plant life. However, it requires profound understanding, significant mana, high grade spell but most important of all—basic respect for nature. Reckless manipulation risks damaging the very ecosystems we cherish."

Another student quickly raised their hand, asking, "Instructor, can Wood Element spells interact positively or negatively with other elements?"

"Indeed," Lysandra replied warmly. "Wood naturally harmonizes well with Water and Earth elements, enhancing its growth and vitality. Conversely, Fire and Thunder elements counteract Wood, requiring extreme caution when used together."

Orion raised his own hand calmly, drawing Lysandra's gentle gaze. "Instructor Lysandra, how effectively can Wood Element techniques function defensively against aggressive elemental attacks?"

"An good question, Orion," Lysandra praised softly, clearly knowing about who Orion was. "Wood Element spells, while robust, are vulnerable to elemental attacks like Fire or Ice. However, skilled Wood affinity mages counter this by reinforcing their plants with specialized mana spells or rapidly regenerating damaged areas. Defensive spells like Thorn Walls or Root Shields, imbued with specific runes, can offer decent protection."

Satisfied, Orion nodded appreciatively, understanding her detailed answer.

Beside him, Felira raised her hand gracefully. Lysandra turned attentively toward her. "Yes, Felira?"

"Instructor," Felira spoke calmly, her voice clear, "aside from traditional support and defensive roles, are there offensive applications where the Wood Element particularly excels?"

Lysandra smiled warmly, evidently pleased with the thoughtful inquiry. "Certainly. Though predominantly supportive, Wood spells can be quite powerful offensively. Techniques such as Vine Lash, Thorn Spear, or even toxic pollen bursts can incapacitate or injure opponents effectively. The element's true strength lies in versatility, adapting offense, defense, and control seamlessly."

Felira nodded respectfully, clearly satisfied with the detailed answer.

As the lesson concluded, Instructor Lysandra gracefully summarized the session, encouraging the students. "Remember, the Wood Element thrives on balance, patience, and harmony. Understanding and respecting its nature will allow your growth as a Wood affinity mage to flourish beautifully."

With a gentle smile and elegant nod, Lysandra dismissed the class. Students began chatting quietly, exchanging thoughts and impressions as they gradually exited the hall.

Seeing Felira begin gathering her belongings, Orion turned toward her politely. "Felira, if you have some time, may we step outside and talk for a moment?"

Felira paused briefly, raising her eyes to meet his calmly. A moment passed as she considered the request, then gracefully nodded her head. "Of course, Orion."

Together, they left the classroom, stepping into the peaceful corridor outside. Sunlight streamed warmly through windows, illuminating the carved greenery along the walls.

Felira turned slightly, regarding Orion curiously. "What did you want to discuss?"

Orion smiled calmly, maintaining an open, straightforward demeanor. "I'm forming a club focused on exploration and practical experience. Currently, Arya, Emilia, Elias, and Nyss are part of it. I'm planning to recruit the most talented individuals in our batch, and that's why I decided to ask if you are interested in it or not."

Felira raised an eyebrow, her expression thoughtful. "An exploration club? Interesting. Though it does sound somewhat unconventional. Do you intend to explore ruins, hidden realms, or dungeons?"

Orion nodded seriously, his voice firm yet genuine. "Exactly. I believe real growth comes through practical experience. Our academy is currently providing us theory, and it might also give us chances for practical experience. But it would not compare to us seeking out those chances on our own. That's why I seek members who value self-improvement, teamwork, and mutual growth."

Felira's eyes brightened subtly with genuine interest. "A commendable vision, indeed. And you chose your candidates wisely. Arya, Emilia, Elias, and Nyss are remarkable individuals. However," she tilted her head slightly, her voice gentle but cautious, "would this club have a clear hierarchy?"

Orion immediately shook his head. "No. I intend this group to function democratically, respecting everyone's input equally. While I founded it, the goal is mutual growth and benefit. Each member's voice matters equally."

Felira appeared genuinely pleased with his answer, nodding appreciatively. "That is reassuring. Most clubs tend to become overly hierarchical. Your concept intrigues me."

Orion nodded his head with a smile, "So, are you interested? You haven't joined a club yet, right?"

She lightly giggled, "I joined the club that my House owns. But I can leave it anytime. I'm sure my father will be happy to know I joined a club with the Royal Princess in it. And the aligns with my goals—self-improvement, practical experience, and exploring the true potential of our affinities. Forming connections with the Princess is a bonus for me."

Orion smilingly shook his head, "That's good as well then, I'm sure Arya won't mind that…probably."

Felira softly laughed, "So, what's the name of this Club? You must have thought of something right?"

"Yes," Orion mysteriously smiled, "But I will reveal it once everyone gathers. I still have a few more I want to invite."

Felira lightly shook her head, "So, what's your plan now? Will you head back or look for others?"