Light's Dawn of Azeroth

Chapter 472, Section 11. What defines the composure and professionalism of a seasoned spellcaster? AT Field, deploy!

After drinking a few glasses of wine, Lothar followed the White Soldier out.

As it turned out, they witnessed Arthas and Calia leaving the defensive zone where the Dark Portal was located, escorted by a group of Gorian ogre wizards.

They weren't just with the Gorian ogres; there were also several Eredar among them.

These are the guests that Diakum needs to receive.

Ms. Vera went out in casual clothes today, and she really dressed herself up as a traveler in a very low-key way. However, her "perennial dean" aura still made her stand out from the crowd.

The rude ogres didn't dare to act presumptuously in front of her. Moreover, these noble wizards summoned by Headmaster Margok had been severely criticized by the old headmaster all the way because of their spellcasting skills and attainments.

The ogre's two heads were contorted in agony, looking as if a horse had died.

Thankfully, it wasn't Dean Blue Moon; otherwise, they would have had an extra stack of "happy" exam papers.

Because of Ms. Verara's special status, Velen also dispatched three Holy Light Chosen as her guards, while two teaching assistants from the Arcane Scholars clan accompanied her on this visit to the "Magic Kingdom".

However, the experience of passing through the Dark Portal is quite unique, so Ms. Verara is currently looking back at the Star Portal behind her and discussing some magical details with her two teaching assistants in hushed tones.

The Mystic Scholars clan is skilled at creating stargates.

Many of the planets inhabited by the Eredar have stargates built by them to facilitate communication, but none of those stargates can compare to the "Dark Portal" before them.

"This is the knowledge of the Titans!"

The spatial rules of the Star Sea are no longer a secret to them. Once the Dark Gate is established, it requires no further maintenance. It can adjust itself according to the changes in the space between the two places, keeping its spatial interaction parameters at a constant level.

This is simply challenging our existing understanding of the cosmos.

The Stargate of the Arcane Scholars is at least three eras behind the Dark Portal. Yes, at least! This means that if we were to research it ourselves, it would probably take at least another ten or twenty thousand years to barely reach the same level.

Is this the difference in knowledge between mortals and true gods?

Ms. Verara's words carried a hint of frustration, but then Diakum stepped forward to comfort her:

“You cannot make such a comparison, madam. The Titans were born as true gods, and when they embraced arcane magic, the mysteries of the Force were fully revealed to them.”

We mortals need to walk the ladder of power, climbing upwards step by step.

While this may not be as naturally powerful as the Titans, it gives us enough time to deal with the intervention and influence of the Force. For example, an outstanding spellcaster like you would never arbitrarily impose your will on others.

You know this is wrong.

The guard, with his hands behind his back, said:

"However, the Titans do this without any psychological pressure. Perhaps the true gods have their own powers and authority, but there is no doubt that as they wield the Force, the Force also influences them. This influence cannot even be eradicated, because the Titans' power arises spontaneously."

They lacked the stage of 'learning and accumulation'.

The tragic destruction of the Pantheon has fully demonstrated this point; its impact was devastating.

"Gods, they are not as strong as mortals; they shed blood too."

Ms. Vera fell silent.

She had never analyzed the difference between humans and gods from this perspective before, but hearing Diakum's words today made a lot of sense to her. Looking at the faces and expressions of the vigilant, the silver-haired headmistress smiled and said:
"It seems we've lived in the ivory tower of arcanists for too long, our understanding and analysis of power based solely on theory, lacking the profound insights of someone as battle-hardened as you. However, Diakum, the shadows around you are growing ever darker."

Moreover, your dean isn't so fragile that I need you to use such mysterious and alluring spiritual mysteries to lift my spirits.
Is this a skill you just learned?

It was noticeably awkward to use; if I were more familiar with it, I wouldn't have noticed it at all.

"You are humble."

Diakum looked at Ms. Verara with surprise, and whispered:

"After I acquired the power of the heart and the power of evil, you were the first to actively sense the existence of this power. Your reaction shocked me. Perhaps you can offer some suggestions on how to use this power?"
It requires me to figure it out on my own, but to be honest, I've always been bad at 'innovation'.

This is a common problem for priests and paladins; unfortunately, I am both a priest and a paladin.

"why not?"

The dean said with a smile:
"There are still a few days until His Majesty Kael'thas's wedding. If I can make it in time, I would be happy to start a new research project along the way."

But it's quite interesting to watch these young people argue.

Well, just listening to their mutual rebukes, I could sense the intense entanglement of 'power, friendship, family, morality, choice and dilemma'.

I've seen too many tragedies in my life, so I want to relax my mind.

She waved to Diakum and said:
"Don't try to stop this conflict with your mental strength. They need to vent their frustrations. Occasional fighting can also help build friendships. When boys encounter trouble, they should resolve these little conflicts with a good wrestling match."

"That's what you said."

Dick stopped the rhythm of his mind's power and stood there with Ms. Verara, who, like many elderly people, enjoyed watching the "wrestling match" between Arthas and Varian.

"boom"

Varian was sent flying by Arthas like a bull, crashing to the ground and nearly knocking off the White Pawn's ever-present helmet. Arthas, dressed in leather armor and carrying the Eredar-style Naaru Hammer, had no intention of using the weapon.

No one knows what this kid learned in Draenor after completing the Prosperity Ritual, but Diakum almost lost his balance when he saw him assume the starting stance of "Jednigu Fist".

Ok.

No wonder he's Viren's apprentice; he's even learned old Viren's most treasured boxing techniques.

"The prophet foresaw in his prophecy the heavy burden this child was destined to bear in the future. In his words, he needed to undergo the tempering of darkness and the forging of pain, a pressure that no ordinary person could withstand."

Therefore, the Prophet even set aside some of his duties over the past month to focus on training Prince Arthas.

Ms. Devinius, a chosen one of the Holy Light who was closest to Diakum, explained in a low voice:
"The prophet values ​​him highly; the last person to be valued so highly by the prophet was you."

"Nonsense! When I was in Argus, Velen didn't value me much. The one who truly valued me was Commander Kil'jaeden."

Dick made a joke, but then said:

"Arthas Menethil's fate is indeed heavy. He is destined not to walk the path of destruction, but the path of protection he is to take will not be easy. Given the deteriorating situation in Lordaeron, even if Lothar completes the unification of the Empire, Tirisfal Glades, which is bound by darkness, will not be able to find peace for decades."

And that
It is Arthas's duty and obligation; hopefully, he is prepared.

"boom"

Perhaps angered by his little brother's attack, Bai Zu jumped up and pounced, using orc fighting techniques to counter Arthas's punches. After swiftly dodging three times, he landed a punch on Arthas's chin.

The big guy was knocked to the ground, and then the white soldier rode up on him and beat him with punch after punch.

He roared:

"We're keeping you from coming back to protect you, you silly boy! Everyone is protecting you! The Marshal is, Sir Uther is, and so is my father! Even Archbishop Fao, who is far away in the North and faces assassination threats every day, wrote a letter specifically for you."

We're not letting you go back for your own good, you ungrateful bastard!
Why did you have to come back at this time and cause trouble for everyone?

Do you even realize that to protect an idiot like you, the Marshal's already insufficient forces will have to be divided up further? Can't you stop being so selfish?

"click"

Varian's slamming fist was caught by Arthas's bruised and battered wrist, who, amidst the holy light bursting from his fingers, shouted:

"I don't need protection! I've returned to fight. The Prosperity Ritual has catalyzed not only my body, but also my mind and emotions. I know what my sister and I will face, but just as strong as my sister, I will not allow darkness to engulf my country and my people."

Don't you dare underestimate me!

You're not the only one who can be a warrior.

"boom"

A miniature Holy Light shock erupted from Arthas's hand, sending Varian flying. The white soldier landed with a somersault, his hand already gripping the hilt of his sword, but Brigadier General Daenerys, who rushed over, grabbed his wrist.

Ser Uther, who was praying at Northshire Abbey, rode over, dismounted, and embraced Arthas as he grabbed his warhammer.

The knight had heard of the forest spirits' "prosperity ceremony," and when he saw the grown-up prince, the stressed and haggard knight's eyes showed not only surprise but also a hint of relief.

The fact that the Menethil family would not produce cowards was enough to give the sullen Sir Uther a sliver of encouragement.

"You two, stop fighting!"

Princess Galya, also dressed as a traveler, walked between the two boys, stretched out her hand, and said loudly:

"We all came here for the same goal, so why fight amongst ourselves before facing a common enemy?"

Marshal Lothar, my brother and I must return to Azeroth at this time, not to cause trouble.

We are ready to meet with our father in Quel'Thalas.

"But you can't convince him, son."

Losa sighed and said:
"Your father has gone mad. He beheaded the third messenger we sent and even put his head in a box and sent it to Ryan's palace. Is this something your father would do?"
I must tell you, he may have been bewitched by those dark magics and is determined to build his own empire.

This is no longer just a simple desire for power. Fine, you're all back now, and I can't send you away again.

You two come with me, I'll show you the messages that Mage Khadgar has sent back over the past few months.

If, after seeing those horrific messages, you still believe your father is rational, then I would invite you to join me.

But I have a request!
You must obey my orders, especially you, Arthas!

You clearly cannot control your current power well; the White Pawn will watch over you and teach you.

"I accept your request."

Princess Galiya bent down and glared fiercely at her younger brother.

Arthas gritted his teeth, wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, and then bent down.

As everyone left, Arthas looked at Sir Uther beside him. The boy, who seemed to have grown up overnight, looked at the graying hair at the Sir's temples and knew how terrible the pressure Sir Uther had been under these past few months.

He grasped the jazz's hand and said in a deep voice:

"Thank you for your hard work. From now on, I will share everything with you regarding our homeland. Although the prophet Velen has taught me a lot and I consider myself his apprentice, in my heart, you are still my mentor."

You taught me what courage is.

"Your Highness has grown up."

Sir Uther patted Arthas on the shoulder with satisfaction, then took the reins and said:

"Then let me prepare a set of armor for you. If you are going to the battlefield, how can you do without a set of armor?"

“Give him mine.”

Varian said from the side:
"I happen to have a spare set of Eagle Armor, which I had Onyxia forge. It contains some source steel. Come with me! You need to learn how to control your power."

The Prosperity Ritual is not without its flaws; you need to be aware of the weaknesses inherent in this form.

What are you standing there for? You're like a block of wood.

Let's go.

"Oh well."

Arthas paused for a moment, then watched as Varian waved and called out as usual. He gave a fleeting smile, then bid farewell to Sir Uther and followed.

However, Ms. Vera and Diakum were no longer seen among the onlookers.

After all, how can a tender and affectionate relationship compare to the excitement of a melodramatic gossip?
------

"The power of the heart gathers the positive emotions in the hearts of oneself and others and transforms them into a kind of energy entity. It is a very interesting mystery. This power is obviously biased towards defense and purification, while the power of evil is more suitable for offense and erosion."

The ability to manipulate and switch between two sides of the same entity is extremely flexible; without a doubt, this is your mental fortress and your spiritual weapon.

In the monastery's practice room, Ms. Verara personally experienced two of Diakum's spiritual mysteries, and she exclaimed:
"The stars are indeed vast and full of wonders. I've certainly broadened my horizons today, but not everyone can learn such peculiar mysteries, right?"

"The power of Sha has strict learning conditions. Currently, only Saloras in the entire Lightforged Chapter can learn it without any obstacles. The Shadow Hunters are trying to comprehend this profound knowledge, but their progress is quite slow."

This thing requires innate mental strength to master perfectly.

Dick handed Ms. Verara his notes on strength, which he had written over the past two months, and introduced them to her:

"The power of evil can form various halos that affect the mind, such as fear, doubt, anger, despair and other clear effects. It can also be applied by spells, and its effect is similar to an enhanced version of 'Soul-Eating Plague'."

It has diffusivity.

If I wanted, I could plunge individuals in a city into a state of negative emotions and influence in a short period of time. However, since the application of the power of the Seven-Headed Beast has already been demonstrated by the masterpiece of the Sub-Shock, we can imitate its power form to use it.

The real trouble lies in the power of the heart.
Don't laugh at me.

Even after using it to thwart Y'Shaarj's resurrection ambitions, I still don't quite understand the specific effects of this thing.

Is it merely a convergence of positive emotions?

The dean didn't answer immediately. She carefully perused Diakum's journal, and after several minutes, she closed the journal, shut her eyes, and said:
“You need to practice your handwriting. It’s not ugly, but it’s still a bit undignified for your current status. I’ll give you a few calligraphy samples later.”

"Some people are practicing."

Dick was taken aback.

Then I heard the dean say:

"During one of the migrations of the Mystic Scholars clan thirteen thousand years ago, we encountered a unique interstellar life form on our journey. The race on that planet was born with powerful spiritual energy, and they were few in number and afflicted by some kind of void plague."

We tried to cure them, but unfortunately we couldn't save that civilization in the end.

Such tragedies are everywhere in the starry sky, but I'm telling you this story because that civilization didn't actually go extinct.

We cared for and protected them for two hundred years, and only when their last individual passed away did they tell me their secret.

They are not dead; their spiritual power was so strong that their bodies could not withstand it and they naturally decayed. Those who died can exist independently with their spiritual power and can form an even more powerful existence by uniting with each other.

They bid us farewell and foretold the arrival of the Burning Legion, saving the Arcane Scholars clan from annihilation.

Their unique individual forms allow them to have a very thorough understanding of mental power. I still remember that they have a protective technique that does not rely on any magic or energy, but only on their determination, will and fighting spirit to create a protective force field that surrounds them.

That thing has incredibly strong defenses; it can even withstand penetrating physical attacks.

The dean opened her eyes, stroked the stone-like bracelet on her wrist, and said to Diakum:

"Although the methods of action are different, I think you can perhaps shape your mental power in this direction. If this is also the energy born from the positive emotions in an individual's heart, then theoretically, the more determined you are, the more stable the force field you create will be."

"The Wall of the Heart?"

Diakum's imagination ran wild.

Ms. Vera gave him a perfect idea. He immediately switched his state to the Dispelling Demon Technique, allowing his inspiration to flow and, as prompted, mobilize his mental power, applying it to himself like the simplest and most unadorned Mantra Shield.

I wasn't very skilled at it yet.

But to Ms. Vera’s astonishment, after only three attempts, an invisible force field was indeed formed around Diakum.

"AT Field, deploy!"

The vigilant mentally shouted something rather childish, then pushed his hands outwards, causing the force field to expand rapidly until it enveloped the entire Northshire Abbey. In that instant, Ms. Vera, who was within it, was pulled into a strange "mental network."

Diakum is the core; she became one of the nodes.

She could perceive the thoughts of everyone in the monastery, and others could perceive her mind as well.

Thus, the minds of the human pilgrims were drawn to Ms. Verara's wise and learned soul, and the "spots of light" curiously circled around her, seemingly expecting wisdom.

"It's amazing."

She lamented:

"Your creativity in divine magic is quite astonishing. If I'm not mistaken, this 'Wall of the Heart' combines the ingenuity of a series of defensive divine spells such as Power Word: Shield, Holy Word: Barrier, and Law: Protection."

Congratulations, Diakum.

You've created a new divine spell, but I wonder about its defensive capabilities?

"Just try and you will find out."

Diakum smiled and gave the command in his mind.

A moment later, a bewildered Onyxia flew into Northshire Abbey in the form of a Lightforged Dragon. She circled a few times and said:
"So I'm really going to hit it? Don't come looking for me to pay for anything I break."

"Hit me as much as you want! If you break anything, it's on me."

Dick replied.

So the Black Dragon Princess, who had been in a bad mood lately, roared and swung her mountain-splitting claws at the monastery below.

Without any physical protection, her claws struck an invisible but solid layer of energy.

"Huh? This is different from other magic shields?"

The Lightforged Dragon took to the air again in surprise, and said:

"What is this strange thing? I don't feel any energy flowing through it."

"This is the convergence of everyone in the monastery's resistance to the emotion of 'being hurt,' which you can understand as the fusion of individual spiritual strength to form the 'wall of the heart.'"

Dick explained:
"The more resolute they are, the stronger this thing becomes! But if they are weak and desperate, it will vanish without a trace. Yes, it is the shield of warriors and the straw mat of cowards. From tonight onward, the will of Azeroth will truly be as firm as steel."

Ps:

Bonus chapters tomorrow: 3 + 5.
(End of this chapter)