The Divine Summoner: Godson of Altima

by Antony W. F. Chow

  When Luka opened his eyes and bowed in appreciation, Alectos said, "Out of the spells I taught you, you must take extra caution when using Command because the caster could abuse it for evil purposes."

  "What do you mean?" Luka inquired with arched brows.

  "This spell takes control of the target's mind and forces him to obey your will. The spell duration varies depending on the target's mental defense, the caster's proficiency in light magic, and whether the order is contrary to your target's alignment and personal beliefs. If your order is an act that the target performs typically, he would likely comply as a helpful suggestion. But if your order is contrary to his beliefs, then the target will resist and may even break free of your control," Alectos explained.

  Luka nodded in understanding. "In the extreme scenario, casting Command would result in the target's enslavement," he observed.

  "Exactly. While slavery exists on Zaleron, the Divine Church of Light banned this practice. If they catch you using Command to enslave people, then your reputation will suffer tremendously to the extent that you will lose your status as the 'Godson of Altima,'" the teacher warned.

  "Okay, I will avoid using the Command spell unless I have no choice," the student promised.

  "Excellent. For the next part of your training, you will practice Divine Summoning," Alectos revealed.

  Bel's ears perked up. [Isn't it dangerous for you to use this ability?] The familiar became worried for Luka's well-being because Bel recalled the child entering a coma after he used this ability.

  The God of Magic held up his hand. "Luka, you fell into a coma after invoking your divine summoning because you lacked sufficient mana to perform a proper ritual. At that time, you possessed roughly 4,000 mana, while the summoning required 5,000 points. Consequently, your lifeforce made up the deficit via a dark ritual to complete this process. Afterward, your body forcibly shut down to heal," he explained.

  Luka recalled his participation in the Ceremony of Blessings when he reached five years of age. At the time, his status report indicated he possessed 4,000 mana. The facts fit what Alectos told Luka. "What are these divine summons? Why are they so mighty?" the student asked.

  Alecto smiled faintly. "Do you believe in reincarnation?"

  "Yes, I do," Luka replied. After all, he was living proof of it!

  "You are a reincarnated soul who came from Earth," the teacher stated.

  "How did you know?"

  "Since I am a god, I could view a human's past if I care enough to check," Alectos replied with a smile. "Now, you're probably wondering how your reincarnation relates to your divine summon. Your soul has a unique resonance compatible with ALL divine spirits. Consequently, you can partner with them and borrow their powers."

  "Unfortunately, Zaleron's natives lack this resonance, and their souls cannot host divine spirits. That's why EVERY member of the Heavensfell lineage reincarnated from another realm."

  Luka's eyes widened in disbelief.

  "Divine spirits are powerful souls who reached godhood in their homeworlds. But the gods also have finite lifespans measured in eons rather than years. When they die, their souls enter a place between the living and dead, which we call 'Primordial Chaos.' Divine summoning allows you to call your chosen partner and borrow his power," the teacher explained.

  Seeing that the boy remained silent, Bel spoke up. [There's no point in overthinking. Your main objective is to master this ability and use it to protect yourself.] The rabbit gave Luka a light kick in the rear.

  "You're right, Bel." The child looked at his teacher. "How should I practice divine summoning?" he asked.

  Alectos smiled at his pupil's enthusiasm. "Frankly, it's difficult to practice because each summoning costs 5,000 mana, and you'll automatically invoke a dark ritual to supplement the missing amount with your life. But in fairness, divine summoning is the most powerful magic which a mortal could utilize."

  "For you, there are several considerations. First, you need to unlock as many spirits as possible. You already gained one partner, and there are two more empty slots, which we will fill up shortly. Second, I will help reduce the cost of invoking your summoning ability. I will also provide a way for you to regenerate your magic faster," Alectos said.

  "Thank you, teacher."

  "Now, kneel and repeat after me: 'I, Luka Heavensfell, acknowledge Alectos as my master,'" the god commanded.

  The boy obeyed and performed the ritual.

  Alectos placed his hand on his pupil's forehead. "I, Alectos, acknowledge Luka Heavensfell as my official disciple," he stated.

  Golden light enveloped the mortal and entered the child's forehead.