The chill of early dawn crept across the city of Velaria as Mano, Kaela, and Juno made their way through winding streets toward the colossal gates of the Lunaris Combat Academy. The air held a faint metallic scent, as if the city itself was steeped in the constant hum of steel and magic.
Mano's thoughts still lingered on the trials he had just overcome—the Trial of Blade was more than a test of skill; it was a challenge to his very spirit. But now, standing before the towering archway of Lunaris, a new challenge awaited, far greater and infinitely more complex.
---
"Looks even bigger than I imagined," Kaela muttered, her eyes flickering over the ivory spires reaching toward the sky.
Juno smirked, adjusting the leather strap over his shoulder. "If the rumors are true, this place isn't just about swordsmanship. It's where kingdoms breed their future generals, diplomats, and—if you play your cards right—kings."
Mano glanced at them, lips curling in a faint smile. "Kings, huh? I've never been much for crowns. But power... power is something you can't ignore here."
They approached the grand gates guarded by two towering statues of armored warriors, their eyes seeming to follow every step. A pair of sentries in the academy's signature blue and silver uniforms stepped forward, nodding with practiced indifference.
"Mano Ardent?" one called out, voice echoing in the still morning.
"That's me," Mano replied.
"You have been expected. Professor Idran Vael will meet you inside."
---
As the gates creaked open, the courtyard revealed itself—a vast expanse of cobblestone paths, manicured gardens, and students practicing sword forms, casting spells, or sparring in duels. The hum of magic mixed with the clang of steel created a rhythm that pulsed through the very stones.
Professor Idran Vael emerged from the academy's grand entrance, a tall man with a weathered face etched with scars, eyes sharp beneath heavy brows. His black cloak billowed behind him as he strode toward them.
"Mano Ardent," he said, voice steady and deep, "welcome to Lunaris. You have made a name for yourself already, but this is only the beginning."
Mano inclined his head. "Thank you, Professor. I'm ready to learn."
Vael's gaze was penetrating. "Good. Because here, skill alone is not enough."
---
They walked through the halls of the academy, frescoed with murals of legendary heroes and ancient battles. Vael spoke as they moved, his tone matter-of-fact but filled with gravity.
"This academy was founded centuries ago by the Order of Luminaries, a coalition of kingdoms seeking to maintain balance in a world rife with chaos. It trains not only swordmasters but strategists, mages, and leaders."
Kaela raised an eyebrow. "So it's like a military academy?"
"In part," Vael replied. "But also a political arena. The students here are heirs of noble houses, talented commoners, and even... gifted outsiders. Power here is currency, and alliances are forged as often on the battlefield as in the council chambers."
---
As they entered a grand chamber lined with ancient tomes, Vael gestured to a glowing crystal orb hovering mid-air.
"This," he said, "is the Essence Sphere. It measures and reveals one's Affinity—the elemental or spiritual alignment that governs a person's magic and combat potential. Fire, Water, Earth, Wind, Light, Shadow... and rarer, more complex affinities."
Mano stepped closer, curiosity piqued. "I didn't sense any elemental magic from my blade."
Vael's eyes gleamed. "Because your talent transcends elemental affinity. The Heavenly Blade is a rare form of pure skill and spirit—a form of swordsmanship that channels the wielder's essence directly into the weapon. Few can wield it, and fewer still can master it."
Juno whistled softly. "Sounds like you've got a special edge."
Kaela frowned. "But that also means he's an anomaly. That makes him a target."
---
Vael nodded gravely. "Precisely. The academy is not just a place of learning; it is a crucible. Those who cannot adapt are consumed. Many come here believing talent is all they need. They are wrong."
Just then, the door opened and a tall figure entered—a young woman with piercing eyes and an air of cold confidence. Her dark hair was braided back, and her academy robes bore the sigil of the Aldeia family.
"Seren Aldeia," Vael introduced. "One of our top students. A prodigy in both swordsmanship and political strategy. Seren, this is Mano Ardent."
Seren's gaze flicked over Mano, her voice smooth but edged with challenge. "You've made quite a name for yourself already. Let's see if you can survive Lunaris."
Mano met her gaze evenly. "I don't plan on surviving. I plan on conquering."
---
Later, as the sun dipped low and the academy's torches flickered to life, Mano found a quiet spot in the gardens, Kaela and Juno by his side.
"Do you think this place will change you?" Kaela asked softly.
Mano stared at the stars emerging overhead. "It has to. I came here to become stronger, but also to understand the world I'm in. Power isn't just about swordsmanship—it's politics, magic, history... everything."
Juno grinned. "Sounds like we've got a long road ahead."
Mano smiled. "Good. I wouldn't have it any other way."