NOVEL NEXT Chapter 7: CH 7
The Artifacts of Krypton
Jor-El directly placed three powerful Kryptonian artifacts in front of Nabu, the Supreme Sorcerer of Kamar-Taj, to solidify the agreement that would allow Zod to study under his tutelage.
With that act, Zod's side mission—granted by the system—was completed almost effortlessly. The system, bound by its own rules, had no choice but to distribute the promised "special" reward.
In the recesses of Zod's mind, the system had withdrawn into a self-imposed shutdown, likely sulking at how easily this mission was resolved. But in the real world, Zod remained composed, carefully following Supreme Sorcerer Nabu's instructions.
Despite his overwhelming excitement about the mysterious "special" reward, Zod knew he had to maintain an outwardly calm demeanor. Any sign of strangeness might arouse suspicion from Nabu.
Arrival at Kamar-Taj
Through the glowing portal, Zod and Nabu arrived at the main courtyard of Kamar-Taj.
The courtyard was bustling with apprentice sorcerers practicing spells, conjuring portals, and bending reality itself. High above the courtyard, atop the steps of the great staircase, stood the Sanctum of Kamar-Taj, Nabu's personal domain and the central hub of mystic knowledge.
Guiding Zod up the long staircase and into the sanctum, Nabu turned to him and spoke:
"For the foreseeable future, I will be your guide, teaching you the mystical arts passed down through Kamar-Taj's ancient traditions," Nabu explained.
"However," he continued, "due to the differences between Kryptonian energy systems and Kamar-Taj's magic, you may not be able to wield these spells as my other disciples do."
"But with your ingenuity and raw abilities, I am confident you'll find ways to integrate our teachings into your unique Kryptonian heritage. If you encounter difficulties, do not hesitate to seek me out for guidance."
Nabu's tone lightened as he added, "For now, I'll have one of my disciples show you around Kamar-Taj and help you settle into your new accommodations. You'll begin formal lessons tomorrow."
Zod nodded politely, offering a small smile. "Thank you, Master Nabu. Your belief in my potential inspires me, and I will strive to meet your expectations."
Nabu chuckled heartily. "We shall see! For now, get some rest, Zod. The journey ahead will test your strength and your will."
Exploring Kamar-Taj
Once outside the sanctum, Zod was led through the many halls and courtyards of Kamar-Taj by a junior sorcerer. He took in every detail, from the towering stacks of tomes in the library to the dormitories where the disciples lived.
During dinner in the mess hall, Zod couldn't help but grimace at the food. The simplicity of the meals here, reflective of the era, left much to be desired.
By the time he returned to his assigned quarters, Zod could barely contain his anticipation. Throughout the day, he had resisted the urge to open the system interface and check his "special" reward. Now, alone in his room, the moment had finally come.
The Special Reward
With practiced ease, Zod summoned the system interface. A red, blinking notification at the top of the screen caught his attention—a clear sign that the reward was waiting.
When he clicked on the notification, a blue gift box adorned with a red ribbon and bow appeared on the screen. A second later, the box burst open with a celebratory explosion, scattering magical fireworks across the interface.
Through the fading glitter of the fireworks, Zod finally saw the contents of his reward.
His pupils shrank, and his expression shifted from shock to pure exhilaration.
"Unbelievable…" Zod muttered, a grin spreading across his face. "No wonder the system shut itself down. This time, it really outdid itself!"
The Reward: Phantom Core Manipulation
[Reward Unlocked: Phantom Core Manipulation]
[Description: The host gains control over Phantom Zone energy, enabling advanced manipulation of dimensional energy. Abilities include:
• Dimensional Rift Creation: Open and close rifts to alternate dimensions.
• Phantom Imprisonment: Trap enemies in Phantom Zone pockets for indefinite periods.
• Phantom Constructs: Summon weapons or barriers made of Phantom energy.
(P.S. Mastery over this skill will unlock hidden abilities tied to Krypton's deepest secrets.)]
Zod burst into laughter, barely able to contain his excitement. This was no ordinary power. The ability to wield Phantom Zone energy meant he could now bend space itself to his will—something even Krypton's greatest scientists had struggled to achieve.
With this reward, his future seemed limitless.
"This power will ensure my path to greatness," Zod muttered, his voice brimming with confidence. "Warworld, Mongul… even Jor-El himself won't be able to stand in my way."
But Zod wasn't foolish enough to get ahead of himself. For now, his focus would remain on learning all he could from Kamar-Taj. After all, even with the system's gifts, raw power alone wasn't enough to rule a universe.
As Zod leaned back in his chair, his grin widened. "Let's see what tomorrow brings."