The aftermath of the Crimson Rift still lingered across the academy. The floating platforms shimmered faintly, reflecting the damage left behind. Aiden leaned against the marble rail of the observation terrace, breathing in the cool night air. The stars above seemed unusually close, their light pulsing like quiet heartbeats.
Kaela stood beside him, arms crossed, her violet lattice dimmed to a faint glow. "The academy hasn't faced a Rift this strong in years," she murmured. "If we hadn't stabilized it, half the northern towers would've been destroyed."
Aiden nodded. "And Tharen's energy was inside it. He's getting bolder."
Kaela's eyes flicked toward him—serious, but soft. "You fought well, Aiden. You didn't lose control, even with your sister nearby."
Before Aiden could reply, the heavy iron gates at the far end of the terrace creaked open. Every guard instantly bowed low as a tall figure entered, clad in a coat lined with black and silver. His aura was calm, controlled—yet vast, like the quiet surface of a deadly sea.
"Father…" Aiden whispered.
Lord Ravel Valcor—the Head of House Valcor, one of the most powerful nobles of Elyndra—had arrived.
---
The man's silver eyes surveyed the damage, then rested briefly on Aiden. "So, this is where the Rift appeared." His voice was deep and even, carrying authority that silenced even the guards. "I was informed my children were in the center of the storm."
Ciel appeared almost instantly beside Aiden, her long silver hair flowing in the moonlight. "Father," she said calmly, "it was under control. The Academy's containment squad arrived too late, as usual."
Ravel's gaze moved from Ciel to Aiden, then to Kaela. "I see. So my son's companions are quite capable."
Kaela bowed slightly, her tone respectful but guarded. "It was an honor to assist the Valcor heirs, my lord."
Ravel studied her for a moment longer than necessary, then turned his attention back to his son. "Aiden, walk with me."
Ciel frowned, stepping forward. "He's exhausted—"
Ravel raised a hand, and even she fell silent. "This will only take a moment."
---
They walked through the quiet garden paths behind the terrace. The faint hum of magical lamps lit their way. For a while, neither spoke.
Then Ravel said, "I received the Academy's report. It seems your magic has grown considerably since your arrival."
Aiden hesitated. "I'm… learning fast."
"That's not what I asked." Ravel stopped, turning to him. "The Valcor line carries ancient magic—starlight bound with blood. But you, Aiden… you weren't born here, were you?"
Aiden froze. His heart skipped a beat. "What do you mean?"
Ravel's expression didn't change. "Your resonance doesn't match this world's frequency. It's faint, but distinct. I sensed it the moment you were born into this house."
For a moment, Aiden's thoughts spun. Did his father know about his reincarnation? About Earth?
Ravel continued, his tone unreadable. "That anomaly makes you both dangerous and invaluable. There are powers—rulers beyond Elyndra—that would kill to control it. You must learn faster, stronger, and smarter than anyone else here."
Aiden clenched his fists. "I'm trying."
Ravel stepped closer, resting a hand on his shoulder. "Trying won't be enough soon." His gaze softened slightly. "But… I am proud that you survived today. Even if you still hide your true potential."
He turned, cloak fluttering. "Tomorrow, the Academy will announce the Elite Combat Trials. You will compete. Win them. Make the Valcor name undeniable."
Then, as quickly as he had appeared, he vanished into the mist.
---
Aiden stood in silence, processing his father's words. His power… not from this world. Ravel had sensed it all along.
Kaela appeared moments later, her lattice shimmering faintly in the dark. "Your father's presence… it's overwhelming. He doesn't feel like an ordinary noble."
"He's not," Aiden murmured. "And he knows something about me. Something I don't understand."
Kaela stepped closer, her expression soft. "Then we'll find out together."
A faint smile touched his lips. But before he could answer, another voice cut through the air.
"Little brother," Ciel said, appearing from the shadows, her tone slightly sharp. "You shouldn't wander alone after what happened."
Kaela raised an eyebrow. "He wasn't alone."
Ciel's eyes narrowed. "Yes. I can see that."
The two women locked gazes for a moment, the tension between them as visible as the flicker of their magic. Aiden sighed, rubbing his temples. "Please, not now…"
Ciel broke the stare first, turning back toward her brother. "Rest, Aiden. The Trials will begin at dawn. And if you're not prepared, you'll embarrass yourself—and me."
Then she turned, walking away with silver light trailing behind her.
---
Later that night, Aiden stood on the academy balcony, watching the stars shimmer over the floating towers. His mind raced with thoughts of his father's words, Ciel's protectiveness, and Kaela's quiet loyalty.
He could feel something shifting in the air—a pull toward a larger destiny. The Crimson Rift was only the beginning.
Below, students whispered rumors of the coming Elite Combat Trials—a competition that decided who would represent the academy in the interdimensional summits. It was an opportunity for glory… and danger.
Aiden's starlight pulsed faintly in his hand. "No more staying in the background," he whispered. "This time, I'll step into the light."
Behind him, Kaela's voice was soft but steady. "Then let's make sure you shine brighter than anyone else."
---