Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Professor Sibilus performed the enchantment twice more, each time explaining the steps in detail and emphasizing the importance of focus and intent. The students watched closely, absorbing every word and movement.

"Now," Sibilus said, placing the ring back on the table, "it's your turn. Begin by focusing your aether into the object and then shaping it with your intent. Remember, practice makes perfect."

"And I will be overseeing and helping you all," Kiri added.

The students began their attempts at enchanting with a mixture of determination and nervousness. The room was soon filled with the soft hum of aether being channeled, as each student focused on their chosen object.

Adrian found himself struggling with the process. The first few attempts ended in failure, the objects refusing to take on the enchantment. He could feel the aether flowing, but shaping it into a coherent enhancement was proving to be a challenge. His concentration wavered, frustration mounting with each unsuccessful try.

'Damn it, it is really difficult.'

Nearby, Aria was also hard at work, her face a mask of calm concentration. Unlike the others, she seemed to have a natural affinity for the process. Her fingers moved with practiced precision, her aether flowing smoothly into the metal ring. Yet, even for her, success was elusive. The minutes ticked by, and the room grew quieter as the students became more absorbed in their tasks.

After half an hour, the frustration was palpable. Some students were muttering under their breath, others staring intently at their objects as if sheer willpower would make the enchantment take hold. Adrian glanced around, seeing the same struggles mirrored in the faces of his classmates.

But then, a faint glow caught his eye. Aria's ring was shimmering, the metal taking on a subtle, enhanced sheen.

"Oh..."

She had done it.

A soft gasp rippled through the room as the other students noticed. Professor Sibilus and Kiri both turned their attention to Aria, their expressions a mix of approval and mild surprise.

"Well done, Miss Aria," Sibilus said, his tone still carrying a hint of his usual severity but softened by genuine praise. "You have successfully completed the basic enchantment. Continue practicing to refine your skill."

"Yes, Professor." Aria nodded, her expression indifferent. She then glanced at Adrian, and he gave her a nod of acknowledgment. A slight smile appeared on her lips as she returned to her task.

Adrian wasn't surprised by her success. It was said that enchantment required a high level of aether control and mastery, and Aria just might be the best in that area.

Taking a deep breath, Adrian refocused on his own task. He cleared his mind, pushing aside the frustration and doubts. He visualized the process as Sibilus had demonstrated, channeling his aether into the metal ring with a steady, controlled flow.

The minutes ticked by, and his concentration deepened. He could feel the aether responding, the ring beginning to shimmer faintly. But just as he thought he had it, the glow flickered and faded.

"Tch." Adrian clicked his tongue.

Another failure.

Adrian gritted his teeth, determination flaring. He wouldn't give up. He visualized Aria's success, using it as inspiration. Taking a deep breath, he began again, pouring his focus and intent into the enchantment process.

This time, something felt different. The aether flowed more smoothly, the ring starting to glow with a consistent, faint light. Adrian's heart quickened as he shaped the enchantment with his intent, willing the metal to become stronger, and more durable.

After what felt like an eternity, the ring began to shimmer with a new, enhanced sheen. Adrian exhaled slowly, a sense of accomplishment washing over him.

He had done it. The basic enchantment was complete.

"Finally," he muttered to himself, a small smile of satisfaction on his face.

Adrian's moment of triumph was short-lived. As he admired his newly enchanted ring, a voice broke the silence.

"So, you did it, huh."

The words were barely a whisper, but they sent a shiver down Adrian's spine. He turned his head slowly, his eyes locking onto a pair of cold, snake-like eyes staring right at him. His heart skipped a beat, and he instinctively took a step back.

"Whoa!" he exclaimed, his voice louder than intended.

The figure rose from the shadows, revealing Professor Sibilus. Adrian recognized him immediately and cursed inwardly.

'Couldn't you at least have coughed or hissed to announce your presence?' Adrian thought, feeling a mix of embarrassment and irritation.

Sibilus's lips curved into a faint, almost predatory smile. "Apologies if I startled you, Adrian," he said, his tone dripping with amusement. "I was simply observing your progress. It seems you have finally succeeded."

"Y-Yes, Professor," Adrian stammered, trying to compose himself. "I managed to complete the basic enchantment."

"Good. Then continue refining your skills." Professor Sibilus said and continued walking, observing other students.

'Damn, he is really sneaky. But who would believe such a dangerous-looking professor is actually a big softie who never hurts anyone.' Adrian thought with a hint of amusement as he watched Sibilus move away. 'Well, there's one...' He added as he glanced at Kiri who was moving around answering questions of the students and helping them.

'Kiri, the princess of the noble Celestial Moon Fox Tribe...'

'And Sibilus, a famous alchemist of the Devouring Serpent Tribe, the enemy tribe of his assistant. What a strange duo, aren't they? But to keep this a secret from each other...'

Adrian shook his head, focusing back on his task. There was still much to learn, and this class was just the beginning, and so was the semester. He took a deep breath and continued practicing, determined to improve his enchanting skills.

He didn't have to rush and complicate everything. One step at a time.

'But, I should find a way to impress her first...'

"Hey, didn't I tell you to stare at her too much?"

"!"

Adrian nearly jumped out of his skin at Professor Sibilus's sudden interjection. The snake-like eyes bore into him with an intensity that made his heart race.

"I-I'm sorry, Professor," Adrian stammered, averting his gaze from Kiri and focusing back on his work. "I was just lost in thought."

Sibilus's lips curved into a smirk. "Good. It's important to maintain focus during your practice. Now continue." With that, he moved on, continuing his rounds.

'He is really sensitive, huh...'