GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 23.2: Thread Escalation

"Observe proper form, students," Instructor Morana called out, her voice carrying easily across the grounds. "Power without control is merely a hazard."

Vel maintained his focus, producing another ice formation that wobbled before melting into water. This time he added a slight crystalline structure that lasted half a second longer—minimal progress that would satisfy observers without revealing his true capabilities.

From the corner of his eye, he caught Thornwood's attention shifting toward their group. Standing proudly in the middle of the class, Thornwood had just created a perfect sphere of fire that pulsed with even heat and control.

"Perfect demonstration, Mr. Thornwood," Hust praised loudly. "Note the consistency of elemental manifestation that comes from proper attunement."

Vel kept his expression neutral, continuing his exercise while monitoring the situation. Thornwood's smirk grew as he glanced in Vel's direction.

"It must be frustrating," Thornwood commented to his nearby classmates, voice pitched to carry, "watching real magic when you can barely manage parlor tricks."

Several students laughed, though Vel noticed others shifting uncomfortably at the mockery. He simply sighed, recognizing the provocation for what it was. Years of dealing with corporate politics in his past life had taught him when battles were worth fighting.

Unfortunately, not everyone in the unstable group shared his perspective.

"We're not tricks—" Tomas muttered, more to himself than anyone else, his hands trembling around his focus crystal. The small flame hovering above it began to sputter. Brown tendrils of earth magic bled into the fire, destabilizing it. The spell cracked like glass, then exploded outward in a burst of molten sparks.

"Tomas, release the spell!" Lyvenna called sharply.

Vel watched the spell shatter with a hollow pop. Fire-earth magic erupted outward, sending burning embers across the practice area. Students jumped back with startled yelps, batting at sparks that landed on their uniforms.

"Control your student, Instructor Thalassan!" Hust strode forward, his expression thunderous.

A cold dread settled in Vel's gut. This was spiraling into exactly the kind of attention they didn't need. Tomas stood frozen, his face pale as he stared at the smoldering marks on the sand.

"It was an accident," Lyvenna replied firmly, moving to stand beside a trembling Tomas.

"An accident that proves my point," Hust retorted. "Unstable attunement is dangerous without proper supervision."

"Perhaps," Lyvenna countered, "the accident wouldn't have happened without deliberate provocation."

The two instructors faced each other, the air between them growing heavy. The chatter across the training yard died, and every student turned to watch the silent confrontation.

Vel noticed Celia's concerned expression from across the field. She half-rose as if wanting to cross over, but another student placed a restraining hand on her arm. The divisions between their classes were becoming more apparent by the second.

Hust's face darkened. "You are saying my student is at fault? If they could control the spell, words shouldn't have affected them."

Vel clenched his jaw, recognizing the trap. Hust had twisted Tomas's accident into proof of their supposed inferiority—exactly the prejudice they were fighting against.