Chapter 18: Chapter 18: 15 years old Anniversary, Law of light and Law of Waves
Alvo, now fully equipped with his enhanced abilities, couldn't help but ponder the concept of exorcism. "Exorcising, huh?" he muttered to himself, leaning back in thought. "But to exorcise, I'd theoretically need to send them somewhere—a destination of sorts. And if we're fighting in the Phantom Plane itself in the future, that idea becomes meaningless."
He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's like trying to evict someone from their own home. Doesn't add up."
The thought lingered in his mind, a mixture of frustration and curiosity. Alvo's analytical side kicked in as he began mentally mapping out alternative approaches to dealing with spirits in their native plane.
"Maybe there's another way," he mused, the gears in his mind turning. "If exorcism doesn't work in their domain, perhaps manipulation or suppression could be the key."
He shook his head, dismissing the train of thought for now. There were still so many unknowns to explore, but one thing was certain—he wasn't done pushing the limits of his understanding yet.
Alvo delved into online resources, his tablet glowing faintly as he scrolled through various texts and forums. The consensus aligned with his theory—these souls, or whatever remnants they were, would naturally return to the cycle of reincarnation within the world upon exorcism.
He leaned back, tapping his fingers on the table. "So, as I thought, it's a reset of sorts. But..." his voice trailed off as a new idea took root in his mind. "What if I went beyond that? Perhaps I should investigate the Laws governing the Phantom Plane itself—understand its very fabric. If I can grasp its essence, could I go a step further and... deprive them of existence entirely?"
The thought was both daunting and intriguing. He rubbed his chin, his mind racing with possibilities. "I wonder if anyone has ever achieved such a thing," he murmured to himself. "Surely, there must be records or whispers of someone capable of unraveling a soul's very being within that plane."
His fingers danced over the tablet's surface, typing keywords to expand his search. He wasn't looking for answers—he was looking for paths, breadcrumbs left by those who had walked the edge of understanding before him.
In a wide field of Chameli flowers stretching endlessly into the horizon, Alartard Dumbledore sipped a steaming Chai Ki Mej, enjoying the serene quiet. He appeared lost in the vast beauty surrounding him, his gaze fixed on the distance. Alvo approached with respect, greeting his mentor politely and standing by, waiting for the right moment to speak. His own eyes wandered over the stunning expanse, the gentle rustling of flowers adding to the peaceful ambiance. He thought to himself, This place is truly beautiful.
After several long minutes, Alartard turned to him, his face alight with happiness, and asked, "So, little one, what troubles you now?"
Alvo explained his dilemma—his thoughts on exorcising phantoms and how he dismissed the idea after realizing they might simply return to the Phantom Plane's cycle. He spoke of his desire to understand the deeper laws governing existence and whether it was possible to deny phantoms their very being through something sacred or some sort of repelling force.
Alartard listened attentively, nodding as he processed the intricate ideas. After a pause, he began to explain, his voice steady yet insightful. "Ah, you've touched upon the profound Laws of Existence and the challenge of combating what inherently should not be. There are indeed ancient methods to achieve what you seek. The Primordial Laws of Light, for instance, view phantoms as aberrations—things that should not exist in the natural order. By wielding Light's essence, you can annihilate them entirely, as if they never were.
"Alternatively, the Primordial Shamanistic Laws offer a different approach. These bind a phantom's being to small totems, robbing them of any future or cycle of reincarnation. They become static, unchanging entities confined to the power of the totem. It is an older and somewhat more complex method but effective in its own way.
"For you, however," Alartard continued, his eyes gleaming with pride and insight, "your connection to the True Intention of Waves suggests a different path. You should study the Laws of Light. In time, you could merge them with your intention of waves, creating a synergy that could become devastating to phantoms. And if one day you master the Primordial Laws of Waves, well... you wouldn't merely repel phantoms—you'd become their nemesis, their destroyer, limited only by your rank as a mage."
"And not just against phantoms," Alartard added, his tone contemplative and serious. "Against any being that wields darkness as their primary power. Should someone integrate themselves with a symbol of darkness, you would automatically become their counterpart. In such encounters, the outcome would be absolute—either you destroy them, or they destroy you. It's a dangerous path, but one that holds unparalleled potential. Truly fascinating." He paused, his gaze thoughtful. "I must say, I approve of this direction. It aligns well with your abilities and ambitions."
He reached into his satchel, pulling out three ancient-looking tomes. Handing them to Alvo, he continued, "Here, take these. They will guide your understanding and preparation:
'Light: The Guide to Infinity'—This book will teach you the intricacies of the Laws of Light, their power, and their applications.
'The Legacy of Darkness and How to Stop It'—An analysis of the nature of darkness and strategies to counter it effectively.
'The World's Karma and Spiritual Power Enhancement'—A treatise on how to harness spiritual growth while understanding the interconnectedness of existence.
"Study them carefully. They will provide you with the knowledge to navigate this path and shape it into something uniquely yours."
Wasting no time, Alvo returned to his private quarters to begin his studies. After delving deeply into the foundational principles of the Laws of Light, he came to understand how they could also enhance his Intent of the Waves. The process, he learned, relied on three key elements: connection, acceptance, and a spiritual struggle for eligibility.
As he read further, Alvo discovered that many individuals could spend years trapped in this spiritual struggle, with some never returning at all. Sighing, he prepared himself for the arduous journey ahead. He left a note on his door explaining his intent to enter a deep meditation and also informed his father of his plans. Closing his eyes and following the intricate methods detailed in the texts, Alvo began his evolution.
One Week Later Henry had successfully advanced to Level 3 Wizard, his excitement palpable as he made his way to share the good news with Alvo. However, when he reached Alvo's quarters, he found a note on the door. It read:
"I've entered a deep meditation. If you're reading this, Henry, please activate Red Mode in the village. I've left some notes for you regarding phantoms, dragons, and other challenges. Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to face a Level 4 entity—the power gap is immense. Instead, focus on refining escape techniques. If you ever feel lost or unsure, speak with the professor. Take this seriously, my friend."
After reading the note, Henry nodded in understanding. He spoke to the Academy Spirit, "Activate Red Mode in the village," before heading off to find his professor. His destination: the combat simulator, ready to push himself and follow Alvo's advice.
After speaking with his professor about improving his escape techniques, Henry received a simple yet profound response: "Master the Law of Wood." Conquering it, his professor explained, would grant him the ability to evade even Level 5 existences.
Taking the book his professor handed him, Henry immediately immersed himself in a grueling session of practice and simulation. In the combat simulator, he experienced a cycle of dying and fighting back, honing his skills through relentless trial and error. By the end of the session, Henry nodded to himself in satisfaction. His abilities against opponents of the same level had reached a formidable standard—defeat was now highly unlikely.
However, when it came to fleeing from Level 4 beings, Henry could only laugh bitterly. Despite all his efforts, every single attempt had ended in failure. Recording the battles for later analysis, he returned to the village and turned his attention to studying the Law of Wood.
As he delved into the methods outlined in the book, Henry quickly realized how he could advance his Healing Symbol into a true Law. Wasting no time, he left detailed notes for his family to inform them of his plans. Sitting in solitude, Henry couldn't help but reflect on the year ahead.
"We're both turning 13 this year," he thought, sighing deeply. "It's unlikely we'll share this milestone with anyone else."
Resolving himself, he closed his eyes and began his journey toward mastery.
Two years later, Alvo opened his eyes from deep meditation. His body seemed to ripple like a wave, an illusionary presence that ebbed and flowed. As he raised his hands, a fragment of radiant light appeared—the Law of Light. Glancing at the chessboard he often used for practicing transfiguration, he decided to test his newfound abilities.
Infusing the Law of Waves and the Law of Light into his transfiguration, the result was breathtaking. A stormy ocean materialized, but it was entirely white—its droplets, its surface, and even the residue left behind when the water struck the edges of the chessboard were pristine white. Alvo nodded in satisfaction, murmuring to himself, "The Phantom Plane or not... with this power... I'm afraid I might scare a few people out there."
Leaving his room, he noticed the note left by Henry and nodded in acknowledgment. Walking through the academy halls, he observed the students bustling about—some rushing desperately toward spiritual stones, others selling books, and a few even offering their own bodies. Letting out a sigh, he made his way to his professor.
"Alvo, I see you've succeeded," Alartard said with approval, his gaze steady. "Your very existence has transformed. You can advance to Level 4 as soon as you accumulate sufficient spiritual power. Well done."
Without further words, he handed Alvo a small gift. "Congratulations—you and Henry turned 15 this year. Here, this is for you."
The gift was a bracelet that indicated spiritual power levels, glowing to show whether they were low or high. Alvo inspected it and nodded. "This is useful!"
With a slightly flushed face, Alvo hesitated before asking, "Professor, why do students reach the point of selling their bodies for spiritual stones?"
Alartard took a sip of his chai and replied calmly, "Beyond the obvious reason of acquiring stones, losing one's innocence has certain advantages. First, it prevents higher-level beings from targeting them for specific rituals. Second, it can enhance spiritual power through the use of specialized techniques. Here, take this book."
He handed Alvo a small, nondescript tome. "If the process becomes too much for you to bear, you can... relieve yourself when necessary."
With a smirk, he waved Alvo away. "Now go train, cho cho."
Alvo stood in the simulator, his expression calm but focused. Across from him materialized two spectral figures—twisted manifestations of despair, one shrouded in consuming Darkness, the other radiating a chilling aura of Decay.
The air turned cold as the phantom of Darkness summoned tendrils of shadow that surged toward Alvo, seeking to envelop him in an eternal abyss. Simultaneously, the phantom of Decay unleashed waves of corrosive energy, capable of withering life itself.
Alvo responded with precision, summoning the Law of Waves. A brilliant tide of light-infused energy surged forward, crashing into the tendrils of shadow and dissipating them. His Law of Light shone brilliantly, scattering the creeping darkness and nullifying the corrosive miasma.
The phantoms adapted, combining their powers. The Decay phantom infused the shadows with its withering touch, sending pulsating black orbs toward Alvo. Yet Alvo remained unfazed. With a fluid motion, he used Transfiguration, crafting shields and weapons from radiant energy. The shields absorbed the attacks while his weapons carved through the phantoms' retaliatory strikes.
The battle raged on, with Alvo purposefully drawing out the encounter. He carefully observed the intricate manifestations of the Laws of Darkness and Decay, noting how they worked in harmony to amplify the phantoms' attacks. Even so, he maintained full control of the battlefield, every movement calculated and precise.
When Alvo finally decided to end the battle, he combined the Law of Waves and Law of Light into a blinding surge of energy. The radiant wave swept across the simulator, obliterating both phantoms in an instant, leaving nothing but silence.
Alvo stepped out and thought, "I'll try again."
The simulator adjusted, and two new phantoms emerged, their auras even more menacing. The phantom of Darkness melted into the shadows, making it nearly impossible to discern its position, while the phantom of Decay conjured a poisonous fog that threatened to corrode everything in its path.
Alvo wasted no time, unleashing a tempestuous wave of Law of Waves, interwoven with the cleansing brilliance of the Law of Light. The ocean-like surge swept through the fog, purging the corrosive mist and revealing the shadowy figure of the phantom of Darkness.
However, the phantoms retaliated with relentless ferocity. The Darkness phantom attempted to envelop Alvo in a prison of shadow, while Decay corrupted the environment itself, turning the ground beneath Alvo's feet into a brittle wasteland.
Adapting swiftly, Alvo used Transfiguration to create a platform of solid light beneath him, leaping out of danger while simultaneously launching a barrage of radiant projectiles. The projectiles homed in on the phantoms, forcing them to separate and reducing their ability to synchronize their attacks.
The battle continued in a tense back-and-forth, with Alvo maintaining his dominance. Each time the phantoms attempted to coordinate an assault, Alvo disrupted them with a combination of calculated strikes and defensive maneuvers.
After thoroughly analyzing the phantoms' techniques and behaviors, Alvo decided it was time to conclude the encounter. Summoning his full power, he unleashed a torrent of white waves imbued with the Law of Light, sweeping across the simulator and annihilating both phantoms in a blinding flash.
As the simulator reset, Alvo stood in the now-quiet arena, a contemplative look on his face. "The Laws of Darkness and Decay… intriguing," he murmured. "But against the Law of Waves and Law of Light, they stand no chance."
When Alvo stepped outside, he received a message from a Level 2 Witch requesting to meet him at the academy's restaurant. Seeing he had no pressing matters, he dressed casually in a loose tank top, wide shorts, and flip-flops, adopting a relaxed Hawaiian style.
Arriving at the restaurant, he looked around until he spotted the witch waving at him. She was quite beautiful, about the same age as Alvo. As he walked toward her, she couldn't help but observe him and think to herself:
Alvo Dumbledore... remarkable achievements in battle, ruthless when it comes to eliminating enemies, innocent when the situation demands it, serious when required, and undeniably disdainful of beings he deems inferior to witches...
Her gaze lingered on his well-defined arms, the loose tank top subtly revealing his upper body. Everything about him is perfect, she thought silently to herself.
"Hello," Alvo greeted with a warm smile. "You sent me a message asking for a meeting, right? Here I am. I happened to be free after some training against Level 3 entities," he said, his tone light and casual. "So, what's the priority behind wanting to see me?"
The witch, lost in her thoughts for a moment, snapped back and placed several perfume samples on the table in front of him. "This is my project," she began. "But I need spiritual stones to start. My professor is… distant when it comes to providing support like this," she added with a hint of frustration. "I just need the stones to begin the testing phase. Based on my initial plans, I should be able to pay you back in five months."
Alvo glanced at the designs, his interest mild. "How many stones are we talking about?" he asked, sipping his drink.
"Two thousand," she replied hesitantly, avoiding his gaze.
Alvo, unfazed, leaned back in his seat. "And what are you willing to offer in return, beyond paying me back five months later?" he asked with a knowing smile.
The witch hesitated, her mind racing. She had no rare materials, no artifacts—just a few books of little value. Clasping her hands nervously, she finally said, "I… I could offer you my body."
Alvo raised a hand, forming the number five with his fingers. "Five," he said. "Five days. You'll serve under me for that time, and after that, the stones are yours. You won't owe me anything further. If you want to keep in touch, that's entirely up to you. What do you think?"
Caught off guard by his demand, she hesitated but quickly collected herself. It can't just be mere desire, she thought, recalling stories of powerful beings and their ways with mortals. With renewed determination, she looked at him and said, "I accept."
They proceeded to a secluded chamber, and five days passed like a fleeting breeze. During that time, Jennifer Austin, a Level 2 Witch, found herself overwhelmed. Alvo Dumbledore, true to his reputation, excelled even in these situations. Afterward, he sent her not 2,000 but 10,000 spiritual stones. "Don't mention this to anyone," he told her firmly. "I don't want any murmurs. I enjoyed it—that's all there is to it."
Placing a hand on her, he cast a magic spell that prevented heirs, a precautionary measure. Rising, he added, "You're beautiful and meet my standards. If you ever feel the need for this again, or perhaps something more, just let me know. In the coming years, I'll probably be away." He paused, thoughtful for a moment. "Where? Just keep an eye on the newspapers—they'll probably make a big deal of it."
Jennifer didn't have time to respond as Alvo departed, leaving her stunned. Looking at the balance in her account, she whispered, "Thank you." The additional stones were no mystery to her. During their time together, Alvo had discovered she had a younger sister in need of specialized medical care. Knowing this, he had quietly raised the amount he gave her.
Later, as she held her tablet, a message from Alvo appeared:
"Forgot to mention—if you do this with other men, forget about me. But if you stay true, you're welcome anytime. Goodbye."
Jennifer smiled softly at his dominant yet oddly considerate nature. If it's for you, I can keep myself for you, she thought, inhaling the faint scent of him lingering on her pillow.
Alvo murmured to himself, "With money and necessity, I seem to have found a loyal partner," he said with a sigh. Over the days, Alvo had already sensed it—Jennifer Austin had fallen for him. I'm not a man who comes cheap, he thought, if she truly wants this— Before he could finish the thought, a notification pinged on his tablet.
It was a message from Jennifer:
"You'll have to take responsibility then, husband 💖."
A faint smile crossed Alvo's face as he typed his response:
"Of course. Take care of your matters and your little sister first. Inform your professor that, by order of Alvo Dumbledore, you've been reassigned to Alastard. When you're ready, you may come to my village."
Hitting send, he leaned back, feeling a quiet satisfaction. A partner with loyalty and purpose—it seems fate is aligning itself quite well, he thought, closing his eyes to plan his next steps.
Jennifer, after reading, couldn't help but cry. "So, he knew about Sofia," she murmured, thanking him over and over again.
A few days later, the process was smooth and easy. The transfer of guardianship went without any complaints, and her sister was taken to the Dumbledore State, where first-class medical clinics awaited her. Since then, she had been living with Alvo, training, meditating, and practicing dual cultivation.
Alvo made a video call to his parents to introduce Jennifer. She wasn't ready, and suddenly, it happened—she was so embarrassed that she could barely speak. After he introduced her, she pouted and punched his shoulder, "Humpft."
After some tender and relaxing exchanges, they returned to their tasks. Alvo murmured, "The inscription is here."
Jennifer asked, "What inscription?"
"For the Ghost Plane," he replied quietly.
Suddenly, she embraced him from behind and whispered, "You're going, aren't you?"
He responded, "I should go, along with Henry."
"Jennifer, I have a little elf at home," Alvo said, smiling. "She was a reward from the war, but now she's 5 years old. I want you to get familiar with her. Pina could be a great friend for your little sister."
Jennifer smiled and nodded. "Of course, I'll take care of her."
"Also," Alvo continued, "your path to level 4 is almost ready. So, you'll go back to the Dumbledore Estate until I return from the war. Helena will take care of you, don't worry."
Jennifer, still holding him, said softly, "Of course, husband. I'll be waiting for you," though there was a hint of worry and reluctance in her voice.
Alvo kissed her gently, then called his mother.
"What does my little Alvo need?" Fernanda asked.
"Mom... it's time," Alvo replied, his voice tinged with concern. His mother never liked these adventures, and she would scold his father, Adrian, for months afterward.
She furrowed her brow. "Hmm, should I bring Jennifer here?"
"Yes, please, Mom. I can't leave her at the academy. If something happens, I'm worried about what could go wrong," he said, smiling softly.
"Alright, I'll be there in 20 minutes. I'm in the city doing some shopping," Fernanda replied.
A short time later, Fernanda arrived, greeting Jennifer warmly. "Hello, Jennifer. I'm Fernanda Dumbledore. I hope my son has treated you well. It's a relief he found someone to share his life with. Now, let's go; I still need to do some shopping. Would you like anything? Don't worry about money, my little daughter-in-law. You deserve the world. Come on, come on."
Alvo didn't even have time to say hello. He understood that this was his mother's method when she was both angry and worried. He sighed and went to the door, calling out, "I'll return safely, Mom. Don't be too hard on Dad." Fernanda paused, a small tear escaping, and a sweet smile spread across her face. She then continued on her way.
Alvo sat in the courtyard, watching the level 2 apprentice cleaning. She never spoke, and he didn't want to intrude on her business. Just then, Henry's door opened.
"I imagine now we have a real Wood Law and Healing Law at our disposal," Alvo said.
Henry smiled. Alvo handed him the inscription. "Just as Dad said, the time has come."
The two of them took it to their professor, Alastard, who nodded and confirmed their release.