The lecture hall was filled with quiet energy as students settled into their seats, the low murmur of conversation filling the space.
The room was large, with rows of wooden benches and desks arranged in a semi-circle around the central podium where the professor would soon begin his lesson.
The soft rustling of parchment and the scratching of quills filled the air, mixing with the occasional whispers of students.
Noah sat in the middle row, leaning slightly back in his chair.
His red blazer, with its yellow linings and the golden Ravenwood Academy badge, caught the attention of several students nearby.
He could feel their eyes on him, their whispers just barely above a murmur. The red blazer wasn't just a sign of his position in the Vanguard; it was a reminder that he was different from the others.
At first, Noah ignored the stares, keeping his eyes ahead, but the whispers started growing louder.
"Isn't that Noah Ashbourne?" one student muttered to another, their voice barely audible but sharp enough to reach Noah's ears.
"Yeah, wasn't he the Blessed Sage once?" another replied.
"He was, but didn't they strip him of the title after the Starlight Manor Incident?" the first one asked, glancing sideways at Noah.
A third voice joined in, dripping with skepticism.
"I heard he only got into the Vanguard by sheer luck. Probably bribed his way in, just like how he was chosen as the Blessed Sage. Everyone knows it wasn't real talent."
Noah's jaw clenched, his grip tightening on the quill he held. He tried to focus on the lecture, but their voices persisted.
"Yeah, I saw him with the vice master the other day. Can you believe it? He must have wormed his way into this position. Makes sense, doesn't it?"
"Shut up," a quieter voice said, nudging the group.
"You're going to get us all in trouble. We're supposed to be listening to the professor."
Noah sighed, turning his gaze toward the window.
Outside, the sky was overcast, casting a dull gray light into the hall.
The murmurs continued around him, but he pretended not to hear them. Deep down, though, every word stung, every accusation like a tiny blade cutting into him.
"Bastards," Noah muttered under his breath, loud enough for the whispering students to hear but quiet enough not to cause a scene.
"I can hear you."
A darker flower appeared in his projection, its deep violet petals almost shimmering.
"This plant is highly dangerous if not handled correctly. The petals can be crushed into a paste that, when applied to weapons, can paralyze an opponent. However, the leaves are where its true value lies—they can be used to create antidotes for many common poisons."
Noah listened closely. This was vital information, not just for his studies but for survival. He needed to know everything he could about healing and potions.
"Finally, we have the Bloodroot," Professor Margrave said, conjuring an image of a twisted, crimson-colored root.
"This plant is rare, and its uses are... controversial. The roots can be used to create a powerful elixir that enhances physical strength and speed for a short time, but the side effects are severe.
The petals of its flower, however, are known for their ability to clot blood quickly, making it a valuable herb for healing deep wounds."
As Professor Margrave spoke, Noah's eyes drifted toward the other students, who were now fully engrossed in the lesson.
The professor's knowledge was impressive, but it was what he said next that truly caught everyone's attention.
"Now," Professor Margrave said, his voice taking on a more serious tone, "there is a way to heal oneself without the need for a healer or an experienced mage. This method is advanced, but it can be learned through practice."
The room went silent. Every student's eyes were now fixed on the professor, including Noah's.
"It involves a combination of magical focus and the use of specific herbs to trigger the body's natural healing process. With the right amount of magical energy and concentration, one can heal small to moderate wounds without needing external help."
The students exchanged shocked glances.
Healing without a healer?
That was unheard of for most. Healing magic was a specialized field, reserved for those who were blessed with it or had trained extensively in its practice.
"This method isn't for the faint of heart," Professor Margrave warned, his eyes scanning the room.
"But for those of you who are willing to push your limits, it could mean the difference between life and death."
Noah's interest was piqued. If there was a way to heal himself without relying on others, it could be invaluable.
In the game, moments of isolation were frequent, and relying on healers wasn't always an option. This knowledge could give him the edge he desperately needed.
As the professor continued explaining the process, Noah's mind raced. The Second Act was approaching fast, and he knew he didn't have much time.
If he could master this technique, it could make all the difference in the trials to come.
"Looks like I'll need to find some Lumina Blossoms," Noah muttered under his breath, already planning his next steps.
The lesson continued, but Noah's mind was already thinking ahead. He would need every advantage he could get if he wanted to survive what was coming.
"Even though I might not get into S-class, at least I will still have access to the special training room..."