The morning sun poured over Ardencrest Academy, gilding its spires and banners with hues of soft gold. The cobblestone paths sparkled faintly with lingering dew, and the air hummed with the residual energy of Ascension Week. Between the towering Gray and Silver Towers, the courtyard was alive with activity—a swirl of voices, hurried steps, and the ever-present bubbling of the enchanted fountain at its center
The fountain’s mana-infused waters shimmered in the sunlight, casting rippling patterns across the ground like liquid gold. Around it, students moved in clusters, their uniforms reflecting their ranks and their aspirations. Bronze-ranked students, dressed in unembellished robes trimmed with copper embroidery, huddled together in animated groups, their voices a mix of nerves and excitement. Silver ranks walked with more confidence, their jackets adorned with intricate silver stitching and polished badges that gleamed in the light. Gold ranks, the most regal of all, commanded attention with their uniforms trimmed with delicate golden filigree. Their capes, shimmering faintly with enchanted thread, billowed elegantly with their movements
Among them stood Eike Eravyn, dressed in his custom Gold rank uniform. A golden scarf draped around his neck, embroidered with badges of every rank he’d achieved—Bronze, Silver, and Gray—telling the story of his journey through Ardencrest. It was a bold statement, one only someone like Eike could pull off, and it fit him perfectly. His sleeves were rolled up just enough to hint at his casual nature, but everything else about him radiated confidence and charm
Ayo Solara moved through the courtyard, his plain Gray uniform a stark contrast to the brilliance surrounding him. His footsteps were unremarkable, his presence subdued—yet no amount of subtlety could shield him from the whispers that followed him like an unwanted shadow
“Did you hear about him?” a Bronze-ranked girl murmured, glancing toward Ayo.
“Yeah,” her companion replied, leaning closer. “They’re saying he beat Dorian Kael yesterday.”
“Dorian? From the Silver Tower?” The boy’s voice rose slightly in disbelief. “That Dorian?"
The girl nodded emphatically. “I heard it was incredible. Apparently, Ayo dodged one of Dorian’s boulders by moving so fast no one could even track him.”
“No way. A Gray rank pulling something like that?” the boy muttered, his tone skeptical. “Maybe Dorian went easy on him.”
“Dorian doesn’t ‘go easy,’” the girl countered. “That boulder would’ve crushed him. People said it looked like pure instinct, like his body moved before his mind even caught up.”
“And Lirien?” a different voice chimed in, softer but no less curious. “She was seen leaving his room the other morning.”
“That’s got to be a joke,” another replied. “Why would someone like her waste her time with someone like him?”
The words dug into Ayo’s thoughts, each one sharper than the last. He kept his gaze fixed on the cobblestones ahead, willing himself to ignore the murmurs. But the whispers seemed to cling to the air, persistent and unrelenting.
“Ayo!
The sharp, familiar voice cut through the noise like a blade, breaking Ayo from his spiraling thoughts
Eike Eravyn waved him over, perched casually on the edge of the fountain. His golden scarf caught the sunlight, its embroidered badges gleaming like small trophies. He wore his usual grin, a spark of mischief in his eyes, and his posture was effortlessly relaxed despite the attention their group always seemed to draw
“Finally decided to join us, huh?” Eike teased, his voice loud enough to carry over the courtyard buzz. “What, did you let the fame get to your head?
Ayo sighed, his steps slowing as he approached. “I didn’t know we were meeting here,” he muttered
“Sure you didn’t,” Eike replied with a chuckle. “Figured you’d find us eventually. You’ve got a knack for stumbling into the spotlight these days.”
Tessa stood nearby, her Silver badge perfectly centered on her immaculate uniform. She crossed her arms tightly over her chest, her sharp green eyes locking onto Ayo with barely concealed irritation
“Do you even care what people are saying about you?” she demanded, her voice cutting through the noise.
“I care,” Ayo replied, his tone quieter than hers. “But I can’t stop them from talking.”
“Doesn’t look like you care,” she snapped, her frustration bubbling over. “You look like you’re trying to disappear.”
Ren, leaning against a lamppost a few paces away, remained quiet as he studied Ayo. His piercing blue eyes, sharp and calculating, seemed to take in every detail. The faint clink of his silver rings spinning on his fingers added a subtle rhythm to the courtyard noise.
“Disappearing doesn’t work,” Ren said finally, his tone dry. “If anything, it makes them talk more.”
“I’m not disappearing,” Ayo muttered, his jaw tightening.
“Good,” Eike said, clapping a hand on Ayo’s shoulder. “Because between the duel with Dorian and the Lirien rumors, you’re the talk of the academy. Might as well lean into it.”
“That’s not helping,” Tessa muttered, shooting Eike a glare.
“Hey, I’m just saying what everyone else is thinking,” Eike replied with an unrepentant grin.
Ayo’s thoughts churned as the group’s voices faded into the background. The duel with Dorian Kael replayed in his mind, vivid and unrelenting.
He remembered the sharp whistle of air as Dorian’s boulder magic tore through the field. The stone had been massive, its weight and speed enough to crush him instantly if he’d stayed still. For a split second, his body had frozen, his mind screaming at him to move—but it wasn’t his mind that acted.
It was something deeper. Instinct. Or maybe something else entirely.
The rush had been instantaneous, like a dam breaking inside him. His entire body felt weightless, every nerve alive and attuned to the moment. The world around him slowed, the boulder’s path clear in his sharpened vision. His legs burned with an energy he didn’t know he possessed, propelling him forward at a speed that seemed impossible. One moment, he was standing in the boulder’s shadow; the next, he was behind Dorian, his blade striking before the other boy could react.
The power had been intoxicating. His movements had felt effortless, precise, like his body was perfectly in sync with something greater. But the moment it ended, the rush faded, leaving him heavy and breathless, his heart pounding in his ears as Dorian conceded.
The courtyard buzz faded as the group began to move, but Ayo’s unease lingered like a shadow clinging to his steps. He glanced back at the fountain, its mana-infused waters rippling in jagged patterns that caught the light in chaotic, fractured waves. Something about it felt off, like a reflection of himself.
His shadow flickered again—just for a moment. Ayo’s chest tightened as he glanced down at it, expecting to see it twist unnaturally. But when he looked directly at it, it was still.
“Solara!” Tessa’s sharp voice snapped him out of his thoughts. “Are you coming or not?”
“Yeah,” he called back, shaking his head as he jogged to catch up.
Still, as he rejoined the group, the fractured light and flickering shadow lingered in the back of his mind, an omen he couldn’t yet understand.
The archway leading toward the next tower loomed ahead, the air heavier and charged with the residual energy of earlier duels. Ascension Week continued relentlessly, and as Ayo stepped through, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of something unseen pulling at him.
The arena’s oppressive silence lingered long after the Gray-ranked student fell. The acrid scent of burnt flesh and mana residue hung heavy in the air, mingling with the faint coppery tang of blood that stained the scorched earth. The atmosphere was suffused with the weight of the tragedy, the lifeless figure in the center of the arena a stark reminder of the risks inherent to Ascension Week.
Around the edges of the arena, students stood frozen, their faces pale and stricken. Whispers rippled through the crowd like wind through dry leaves, hesitant and disbelieving.
“He didn’t even see it coming…”
“Is he really… dead?”
“They should’ve stopped it! Why didn’t they stop it?”
The murmurs grew louder until a professor stepped forward, their voice sharp and commanding. “Quiet!” The crowd fell silent, their uneasy energy coiling like a wound spring.
The professor knelt by the student, their hands glowing faintly with mana. They hovered above the still figure for a long moment before the light flickered and faded. Shaking their head, the professor rose to their feet, their expression grim. Another faculty member conjured a shimmering barrier around the body, obscuring it from view as they exchanged terse words.
“Everyone,” the first professor said, their voice heavy with finality, “return to your designated areas. Ascension Week will continue as planned.”
Ayo and his friends stood at the edge of the arena, their usual banter replaced by tense silence. The weight of what they’d witnessed pressed down on them, unspoken but palpable.
“This is insane,” Tessa muttered, breaking the quiet. Her sharp green eyes flashed with anger. “How do they let this happen?”
Ren leaned against a nearby railing, spinning a silver ring absently around his finger. His voice was calm but cold. “Because it’s Ascension Week. No one forces anyone into the arena. They push themselves too far, and sometimes…” He didn’t finish the sentence.
“That doesn’t make it okay,” Tessa snapped, her frustration boiling over. “He’s dead, Ren. Dead. And they’re just going to act like it’s nothing?”
Ren met her glare with a measured look. “It’s not nothing. It’s just not enough to stop the academy.”
Eike folded his arms across his chest, his golden scarf fluttering faintly in the breeze. His usually easygoing demeanor was absent, replaced by a rare seriousness. “The professors should’ve stepped in,” he said, his voice quiet but resolute. “They’re supposed to protect us from this.”
“Maybe they didn’t see it coming,” Ayo murmured.
Eike turned to him, his blue eyes sharp. “They’re professors, Solara. It’s their job to see it coming.”
Ayo didn’t respond. His gaze lingered on the shattered blade lying in the dirt, the jagged edges glinting faintly in the sunlight. His mind churned with the memory of his own duel with Dorian Kael—the rush of power, the sharp clarity of his movements, and the crushing weight of what could have happened if he hadn’t moved fast enough.
The group trudged away from the arena, their usual energy drained by the weight of what they’d witnessed. The Gray Tower loomed in the distance, its unadorned stone walls stark against the fading light of day. The path leading to it was quieter than usual, the hum of activity from other parts of the academy feeling distant, almost muted.
Eike broke the silence first, adjusting the golden scarf draped over his shoulders. Its array of badges—the colors of Gray, Bronze, Silver, and now Gold—caught the light as he tilted his head toward Ayo. “So, Solara, what’s the plan? You look like you’ve got something cooking in that head of yours.”
Ayo glanced at him, his expression unreadable for a moment before softening. “I was thinking… maybe we head back to my room. Watch a movie, drink some tea. Something easy.”
“Wait. Tea?” Ren asked, his tone skeptical as he spun a silver ring around his thumb. “You’re going to serve us tea?”
“Yeah, why not?” Ayo said, his brow furrowing slightly. “It’s relaxing.”
Ren raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. “Sure, but what tea, exactly? If you say Aetherleaf, I’m going to have a lot of questions.”
Tessa glanced over her shoulder, her sharp green eyes narrowing. “Aetherleaf tea? There’s no way Ayo has that. It’s rare enough for Silver and Gold ranks to get any, and even then, it’s first come, first serve.”
“Wait, hold up,” Eike said, holding up a hand as he slowed his pace. “Are you actually saying you have Aetherleaf tea, Solara? Because if you do, I need to know how a Gray rank got their hands on something I’ve barely managed to snag as a Gold.”
Ayo blinked, looking between them in confusion. “Uh, yeah. I’ve got a bunch of it. Lirien gave me three boxes when she stayed over the other night.”
The group froze mid-step, their collective shock palpable.
“Three boxes?” Ren repeated, his usually calm voice rising an octave. “Three whole boxes of Aetherleaf? Do you even know what that means?”
“I mean… it’s tea, right?” Ayo said, shrugging as if it were the most normal thing in the world.
“Aetherleaf isn’t just tea,” Tessa said, her disbelief bleeding into frustration. “It promotes blood flow and enhances mana circulation. It’s basically a miracle in a cup. After a few sips, you feel refreshed, your body recovers faster, and your mana network becomes more efficient.”
Ren crossed his arms, his scholarly tone taking over. “And it’s not like anyone can just buy Aetherleaf. The leaves only grow in the highlands of Avarion, under very specific conditions. The academy only rations it during Ascension Week, and even then, it’s first come, first serve. Most Silver ranks barely get a handful. Golds are lucky to get a box. Three boxes?” He gestured emphatically. “That’s more than most students will see in their entire time here.”
“And Lirien just handed them over?” Tessa asked, throwing her hands up. “Like it was no big deal?”
Eike, who had been uncharacteristically quiet, let out a low whistle, his grin returning full force. “Let me guess, she said something cryptic like, ‘This tea is for champions.’”
“No,” Ayo said, rolling his eyes. “She just said it’d help me relax or something.”
“That’s it?” Ren asked, his voice tinged with exasperation. “No explanation? No context? She just gave you three boxes of one of the rarest consumables in Ardencrest?”
Ayo shrugged again. “Yeah. She said I looked tired and needed it more than she did.”
The group stared at him, their expressions a mix of disbelief and grudging envy.
“Well,” Eike finally said, clapping Ayo on the shoulder. “If it’s in your possession now, that makes it yours. And as your esteemed guest, I’ll happily take two cups.”
“Figures you’d be first in line,” Tessa muttered, though the sharpness in her tone had softened into something closer to bemused resignation.
As they resumed walking, Eike grinned at Ayo. “Seriously, though, three boxes? You’re going to be very popular once word gets out.”
“Word’s not getting out,” Ayo said quickly. “I don’t need any more attention right now.”
“Good luck with that,” Ren said dryly, spinning a ring absently. “If Lirien gave you that much Aetherleaf, I doubt it’ll stay secret for long.”
The group shared a knowing laugh, the tension from earlier beginning to fade as they neared the Gray Tower. The scent of freshly trimmed grass mingled with the faint mineral tang of the stone walls, and the warm glow of the mana lamps spilling from the tower windows welcomed them back.
Ayo pushed the heavy door open, holding it for the others as they filed inside. For the first time since the duel, he felt the weight on his shoulders begin to ease. Tonight, at least, he could try to forget the day’s chaos—even if his friends were determined to remind him of his newfound “tea fortune.”
Ayo’s room was small but inviting, its modest furnishings arranged with a practicality that still managed to feel cozy. The mana lamp on the desk cast a warm golden light, illuminating the mismatched cushions and chairs the group had pulled together over the weeks. A faint breeze drifted in through the open window, carrying with it the soft hum of distant mana lamps and the occasional chirp of crickets.
Eike flopped onto a worn armchair, his golden scarf draped over the back as he stretched his legs out in front of him. “Alright, Solara, let’s get one thing straight before we start this little ‘relaxation’ session. You’ve got three whole boxes of Aetherleaf tea, right? I demand to see them. Right now.”
Ayo raised an eyebrow, pausing in the middle of setting out mismatched mugs on the table. “You don’t believe me?”
“No offense, kid,” Eike said, though his grin made it clear he was enjoying himself far too much, “but there’s no way Lirien Veyra handed over three boxes of Aetherleaf tea. She’s probably off somewhere laughing at you for confusing it with something else. So, let’s see the evidence.”
Ren leaned against the windowsill, his arms crossed. “He’s got a point. Even if she did give you tea, three boxes of Aetherleaf? That’s… improbable.”
Tessa, perched on the couch, rolled her eyes. “You all sound ridiculous. Ayo’s not an idiot—he knows what Aetherleaf is.”
Eike raised a hand in mock surrender. “Hey, I’m just saying it’s highly unlikely. And if I’m wrong, I’ll eat my scarf.”
“Please don’t,” Ren said dryly. “That thing’s been through too much already.”
Ayo sighed and walked over to his small cabinet. Pulling it open, he revealed three neatly stacked boxes, their polished wood embossed with the golden sigil of Aetherleaf distributors from Avarion. He placed them on the table with a casual shrug.
The room fell silent.
“You’re joking,” Ren said, stepping forward to inspect the boxes more closely. He ran his fingers over the elegant engraving, his brows furrowing. “This is the real deal.”
“I told you,” Ayo said, smirking slightly as he pulled out the kettle and began prepping the tea.
Eike’s mouth opened, then closed, before he leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Alright, fine. I believed you the whole time. Just wanted to see if you’d actually show it off.”
“Sure you did,” Ayo shot back, grabbing a handful of Aetherleaf and dropping it into the kettle. The fresh, earthy scent of the leaves began to fill the room, mingling with the steam curling upward.
As the tea brewed, Ayo grabbed two small pouches from the cabinet, carefully dividing some of the leaves into each. He handed them to Ren and Tessa, grinning at their shocked expressions.
“For you guys,” he said. “Take some home. No sense in keeping it all to myself.”
Ren blinked, genuinely surprised. “You’re serious?”
“Of course,” Ayo replied, his grin widening as he glanced at Eike. “Except you’re not getting any, Eike.”
Eike sat up, feigning offense. “Excuse me? After everything I’ve done for you? I’m the reason you know how to make tea!”
Ayo waved him off. “Go put on your favorite movie, and we’ll call it even.”
Grumbling, Eike pushed himself out of the chair and made his way to the mana projector. “Fine, but I’m picking something good. None of this moody hero garbage.”
Tessa chuckled softly, cradling her pouch of Aetherleaf as she watched Eike search through the movies. “You’re such a child sometimes.”
Eike pointed a finger at her. “A fun child.”
The group settled into their usual spots as the movie began to play. The mana projector cast a soft, flickering glow across the room, illuminating their faces as they leaned back to enjoy the film. Ayo sat cross-legged on the couch, sipping his tea as the hero on-screen unfurled his radiant mana wings in a dazzling display of shimmering energy.
Each feather seemed alive, glowing with radiant light before detaching and soaring through the air as projectiles. The hero leapt into the battle, wings beating powerfully as he rained down mana bolts shaped like feathers, each strike as precise as it was devastating.
“Okay, now we’re talking,” Eike said, sitting forward with excitement, his blue eyes gleaming. “This right here? This is what makes the whole movie worth it. Wings made of mana? Come on, that’s the coolest thing ever.”
“I mean, it’s definitely up there,” Ayo said, his gaze fixed on the screen. The hero flew with effortless grace, dodging enemy attacks mid-air before landing with a thunderous wave of energy, the wings bursting into radiant particles of light. “Imagine actually having wings like that. You’d be unstoppable.”
“Unstoppable and very dead,” Ren said dryly, absently spinning one of his silver rings. “Do you know how much mana something like that would require? You’d need a mana core bigger than this tower just to activate them, and sustaining them? Forget it.”
“Come on, Ren,” Eike said, waving him off. “Why do you always have to ruin things with ‘practicality’?”
“Because it’s my job to keep you grounded,” Ren replied, smirking faintly. “Also, the precision required to shape mana into feathers and launch them as projectiles? It’s absurd. You’d need perfect control over your mana network, and even then, it’d probably collapse before you could pull off a single attack.”
“Blah, blah, blah,” Eike said, leaning back dramatically. “Practicality ruins everything. Wings like that are about making an entrance. And if I had wings…” He trailed off, his grin widening as he gestured grandly. “They’d be golden with streaks of blue for flair. Huge, too—big enough to block out the sun. And the feathers? Razor-sharp and glowing, so every time I flapped, the gods themselves would look down and say, ‘That’s our boy.’”
Ayo laughed, shaking his head. “That’s… a lot.”
“It’s legendary,” Eike corrected, pointing a finger at him. “You’d be jealous. Admit it.”
“I’m not saying I wouldn’t be,” Ayo said, grinning. “But I’d probably go for something simpler. Sleek, fast, functional. No need for all the extra flair.”
“And boring,” Eike teased, earning a chuckle from Tessa.
“You’re both ridiculous,” Tessa said, rolling her eyes but smiling despite herself.
“Ridiculous and visionary,” Eike replied, raising his mug in mock salute.
Just as the group’s laughter began to settle, the door creaked open. Ayo turned, startled, to see Lirien Veyra standing in the doorway, her long crimson hair cascading over her shoulders. Her sharp green eyes swept over the group, a faint smirk tugging at her lips as she stepped inside.
“Am I interrupting?” she asked, her tone light but laced with amusement.
“What are you doing here?” Ayo asked, his surprise clear in his voice.
“Crashing your party, obviously,” she replied, stepping fully into the room. Her Gold badge gleamed in the soft light as she sauntered over to the table, her smirk widening as the scent of Aetherleaf tea filled the air. “Smells like my tea is being put to good use.”
Tessa glared at her, her voice sharp. “You mean you gave him all this tea just so you’d have an excuse to show up here, didn’t you?”
Lirien placed a hand over her chest in mock offense. “Me? Plan something so devious? Never.” She plucked one of the steaming mugs from the table and took a sip, her expression turning smug. “Though I must say, it’s nice to see my generosity being appreciated.”
Ayo sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “Can we get through one night without this turning into some kind of spectacle?”
“No promises,” Eike said, not even looking up from the projector. “By the way, Lirien, we’re watching Chronicles of the Aether Rift. Prepare yourself for some questionable taste.”
“Questionable?” Lirien asked, arching an eyebrow. She leaned against the back of Ayo’s chair, her tone light and teasing. “You mean to tell me you don’t think the hero’s wings of pure mana are cool? The scene where he uses them to stop the war and save the princess? If someone did that for me…” She let the thought hang in the air, smirking as she took another sip of tea. “Well, let’s just say I’d be very impressed.”
Eike groaned loudly. “Don’t encourage him!”
Tessa rolled her eyes, muttering, “Of course she would say that.”
Lirien’s smirk only deepened as she glanced down at Ayo. “I like to think I bring a touch of class to the room.”
“You bring something,” Ayo muttered, earning a laugh from Eike and a rare grin from Ren.
The group lingered near the edge of the arena grounds, the sun dipping lower in the sky as its warm light gave way to the cooler hues of dusk. Eike sprawled lazily on the grass, his golden scarf spread beneath him like a makeshift blanket. His hands were laced behind his head, his relaxed posture giving no hint of the storm of energy he usually brought to any duel. Ren leaned against a nearby tree, flipping a small stone between his fingers with the precision of a practiced habit. Tessa sat on a low stone ledge, her sharp green eyes darting between the group as if she were waiting for someone to break the silence.
Ayo stood slightly apart, his arms crossed as he stared at the horizon. The faint breeze carried the scents of grass and mana residue, mingling with the soft hum of distant mana lamps. His thoughts trailed back to last night—the quiet camaraderie, the warm tea, the laughter over a silly movie. It felt surreal to think that something so simple could feel so… grounding.
Ren broke the silence, flicking the stone into the air and catching it with ease. “Last night was surprisingly nice,” he said, his tone casual. “Relaxing, even.”
Eike smirked, though he didn’t move from his spot. “Relaxing for you, maybe. I had to sit through Solara’s artistic movie choices.”
“It wasn’t that bad,” Ayo muttered defensively.
“It was something,” Ren teased. “But honestly, I liked it. The tea, the company—it was fun. We should do it more often.”
Tessa scoffed, crossing her arms. “You’re all acting like this is some big bonding experience. What’s next? Matching friendship badges?”
Eike grinned, sitting up slightly. “Don’t tempt me, Tess. I’d totally wear a ‘Team Solara’ badge.”
Before Tessa could retort, the sound of approaching footsteps drew their attention. Lirien Veyra strode toward them, her long crimson hair flowing freely in the evening breeze, catching the fading sunlight like liquid fire. Her sharp green eyes sparkled with mischief, and her polished Gold badge reflected the light, giving it an almost regal glow.
“Well, isn’t this a cozy little gathering?” she said smoothly, her voice carrying a playful lilt.
“What are you doing here?” Tessa asked immediately, her tone sharp.
Lirien raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. “Isn’t it obvious? I’m here for my boyfriend.”
Ayo froze, his face flushing red. “Your what?”
“Her boyfriend,” Eike repeated, his grin widening. “Well, congratulations, Solara. Didn’t know you were off the market.”
Lirien ignored the laughter and strode confidently up to Ayo, placing a finger under his chin and tilting his face upward. “It’s true, isn’t it? We’ve shared so much already.”
“Lirien, I—” Ayo stammered, but the words caught in his throat, his embarrassment rendering him completely speechless.
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Lirien’s smirk deepened. Without warning, she pushed Ayo onto the grass, her sudden movement causing a startled yelp from him as she landed lightly on top of him. The rest of the group stared, dumbfounded, as she leaned down until their faces were just inches apart.
“Let’s review, shall we?” she said, her tone sweet but dripping with mischief. She held up a finger. “First, we shared a bed.”
Ayo’s mouth opened, but no sound came out.
A second finger. “Then we shared tea.”
His blush deepened as he struggled to form any sort of coherent response.
A third finger. “And, let’s not forget, we’ve shared moments of vulnerability. Back home, that means we’re practically married.”
Ren, who had been silently watching the spectacle, suddenly burst into laughter, doubling over as tears streamed down his face. “That is not how it works in Avarion,” he managed between gasps. “But please, keep going. This is incredible.”
Eike clapped a hand over his mouth, shaking with barely contained laughter. “I can’t—this is too good.”
Tessa, meanwhile, glared daggers at Lirien. “You’re just here to mess with him.”
Lirien finally stood, brushing imaginary dust off her uniform before offering Ayo a hand. “Mess with him? Tess, come on. I’m just stating the facts. Right, husband?”
“I am not your husband,” Ayo muttered, his voice muffled as he buried his face in his hands.
Lirien patted his shoulder as he got to his feet, her smirk softening into something more teasing. “Keep telling yourself that, Solara.”
Ayo groaned, rubbing the back of his neck. “Let’s just head back to the Gray Tower before this gets any worse.”
“About that,” Eike chimed in, his grin returning. “You’ve got a duel in the Gold Tower area in about twenty-five minutes. Unless you’re planning to drop out, I’d suggest heading there instead.”
“What?” Ayo blinked, caught off guard.
Eike stood and stretched, gesturing at the group. “Don’t worry. Everyone here is going to come and support you. Right, guys?” His tone was unconvincing, but the grin on his face made it clear he wasn’t taking no for an answer.
Ren shook his head with a laugh. “I’ll go, but only to see if Solara survives.”
Tessa crossed her arms. “It’s not like I have a choice, is it?”
Lirien leaned closer to Ayo, her voice dropping to a low, playful murmur. “Don’t worry, dear. I’ll be cheering the loudest.”
Ayo groaned again, his shoulders slumping as the group began walking toward the Gold Tower area. The shadows stretched long across the academy grounds, the air charged with the quiet anticipation of what lay ahead.
The Gold Tower loomed above the academy grounds like a gilded monolith, its spires reaching toward the heavens with an air of undeniable superiority. Its surface shimmered faintly, a testament to the layers of enchantments woven into the very stone. Massive mana crystals embedded in its façade emitted a soft golden glow, casting intricate patterns across the courtyard below. Inside, the opulence continued—smooth marble floors, enchanted chandeliers floating lazily beneath vaulted ceilings, and walls adorned with tapestries depicting the academy’s greatest champions. Everything about the tower exuded power, prestige, and the privilege reserved for those who had earned their place within its ranks.
Kaelen Draeve was the epitome of the Gold Tower’s elite. He stood over six feet tall, his broad shoulders and muscular frame giving him an imposing presence that turned heads wherever he went. His short black hair was neatly cropped, a sharp contrast to his piercing amber eyes that seemed to glow faintly with the mana that coursed through his veins. His strong jawline and chiseled features only added to the air of authority he carried, but it was his sheer physicality—coupled with his precise control of his power—that made him a force to be reckoned with.
Even his uniform seemed to reflect his stature. The gold trim on his jacket caught the light with every movement, and his polished badge gleamed proudly against the deep navy fabric. He moved with a controlled intensity, every step deliberate, every motion precise. Kaelen wasn’t just strong—he was disciplined, a paragon of the academy’s ideals.
At the moment, four Kaelens moved in perfect sync within the Gold Tower’s main training hall, each a flawless, shimmering replica of the original. The clones, manifestations of his Runic Nexus, circled the hall, striking reinforced dummies with devastating precision. Every punch, kick, and mana-infused blow landed simultaneously, creating a symphony of destruction. Sparks flew, and cracks splintered across the dummies, the sound reverberating off the high walls.
The real Kaelen weaved between his clones effortlessly, his movements fluid and commanding. To an outside observer, it was a performance of unmatched precision—one that showcased why Kaelen was feared and respected in equal measure.
The sound of footsteps echoed through the hall, breaking the rhythm of his strikes. Kaelen turned sharply, his amber eyes narrowing as Serik Valrohn strolled in, his silver-streaked hair catching the golden light. Serik’s ever-present smirk was firmly in place as he took in the scene before him.
“Four Kaelens? Show-off,” Serik quipped, leaning casually against the doorway. “You know, most people only need one of themselves to train.”
Kaelen didn’t respond immediately. With a sharp motion, the clones flickered and dissolved, merging seamlessly back into his body. The golden glow of Runic Nexus faded into a faint hum, leaving the room quiet except for the low thrum of mana conduits.
“What do you want, Valrohn?” Kaelen asked, his tone clipped.
Serik pushed off the doorframe, his smirk widening. “Thought you’d like to know who your opponent is today.”
Kaelen’s jaw tightened, his expression unreadable. “And?”
“Solara,” Serik said, his smirk growing as he said the name.
Kaelen froze, his fists clenching at his sides. “You’re joking.”
“Not at all,” Serik replied, his blue eyes gleaming with amusement. “Apparently, the professors thought it’d be... interesting.”
“Interesting?” Kaelen’s voice was low and dangerous. “You mean Ayo Solara, the Gray who can’t even control his mana properly? The one who almost set the relic booth on fire on the first day?”
“Exactly,” Serik said, his grin widening. “The one and only. I hear he’s been making waves lately. Something about winning a duel he had no business winning.”
Kaelen’s mana flared, golden energy radiating from his body in sharp, crackling bursts. “They’re pairing me with him? A Gray? What are they trying to say—that I’m not worth a real challenge?”
Serik shrugged, though the smirk never left his face. “Maybe they want to see if he’s the real deal. Or maybe...” He let the words hang for a moment before continuing. “They think you’re losing your edge.”
The sound of Kaelen’s fist slamming into the wall echoed through the room, a web of cracks racing across the marble surface. “Losing my edge? I’ve beaten every Gold rank they’ve thrown at me. Crushed every duel. And now they’re throwing a Gray at me? They think I’m a joke.”
From behind Serik, Lioren Estrel, a wiry Gold rank known for his nervous energy, hesitated before speaking. “It’s probably just a test for Solara. You know, to see if he can—”
Kaelen turned on him, his amber eyes blazing. “Do you think I care what it’s a test for? If the professors want to waste my time, fine. But don’t expect me to hold back just because they’re trying to coddle some mana-leaking amateur.”
Lioren flinched, muttering, “Just saying…”
Serik chuckled, stepping closer. “You’re taking this awfully personally, Kaelen. I mean, it’s not like this is the first time you’ve put a Gray in their place. Remember the relic booths? You’ve already shown Solara where he stands.”
Kaelen’s jaw tightened as the memory surfaced. The way Solara had stumbled after Kaelen had deliberately bumped him, how the crowd had whispered in hushed tones. Kaelen’s words from that day rang in his mind.
“You’re not worth the mana it takes to keep this place running,” he’d sneered. “If it were up to me, they’d send you back to wherever you crawled out of.”
The resentment bubbled to the surface again, and Kaelen’s voice dropped to a low growl. “I don’t care what the professors want. If they think this is some kind of test, I’ll make sure Solara fails it.”
Lioren hesitated, glancing nervously between Kaelen and Serik. “You’re not seriously going to—”
“Going to what?” Kaelen snapped, cutting him off. “Show him what happens when you step into the Gold Tower unprepared? He’s the one who agreed to this. He should know what he’s walking into.”
Serik’s smirk faltered slightly, though he quickly masked it with a casual shrug. “Well, I guess we’ll all get a show then. Just don’t kill the poor kid. The professors might not like that.”
Kaelen didn’t respond, his fists glowing brighter as the mana conduits in the room seemed to hum in tune with his rising anger. Without another word, he stormed out of the training hall, his golden aura casting long shadows on the polished floor.
As Kaelen made his way toward the Gold Tower’s arena, his thoughts churned with a mix of anger and determination. It wasn’t about Solara—not entirely. It was about the constant need to prove himself, to show that he deserved his place at the top. Every duel was a test, every victory another step toward solidifying his legacy.
But this? This felt like an insult.
If they wanted a show, he would give them one. But it wouldn’t be for the professors, or the crowd, or even for Solara.
It would be for himself.
The Gold Tower arena was a marvel of magic and craftsmanship, its smooth stone floor etched with ancient runes that shimmered faintly in the sunlight. Rows of tiered seats surrounded the battlefield, filled with students eager to witness a duel that would undoubtedly be one of the most memorable of Ascension Week.
Ayo stood at one end of the arena, gripping his sword tightly. His Gray-ranked uniform, simple and unadorned, seemed almost out of place against the grandeur of the Gold Tower’s opulent surroundings. Across from him, Kaelen Draeve exuded an aura of dominance. His tall, muscular frame cast a long shadow, and the golden runes etched into his skin pulsated faintly. He stood confidently, his golden-ranked uniform pristine and tailored, the gold trim catching the sunlight.
The crowd was buzzing with excitement, murmurs of speculation rippling through the air. Many were here for one reason—to see Kaelen crush the Gray-ranked upstart who dared step into the Gold Tower arena.
Kaelen smirked, his voice carrying easily over the crowd’s din. “Solara the Gray? You’ve got to be kidding me. Who thought this was a good idea?”
The crowd laughed, some shouting taunts.
From the stands, Eike frowned, leaning forward. His golden scarf fluttered slightly in the breeze. “Kid doesn’t need this right now,” he muttered under his breath.
Ren, seated beside him, spun one of his rings idly. “Kaelen’s not holding back. You can see it in his stance.”
Tessa crossed her arms, her brow furrowed with worry. “This is wrong. He shouldn’t be fighting Kaelen.”
Eike sighed heavily. “If I’d known it was Kaelen, I would’ve told him to drop out. Hell, I would’ve dragged him out if I had to.” His voice dropped, regret thick in his tone. “Kaelen’s stronger than me. This isn’t a duel—it’s a death sentence.”
Professor Theron Veyda stepped forward, his commanding voice silencing the crowd. “This duel is conducted under Ascension Week rules. Magic and combat are permitted. Victory is determined by incapacitation or surrender. Begin!”
Kaelen wasted no time. He charged forward, his fists glowing with golden energy. The ground cracked beneath his feet as he closed the distance in an instant. Ayo barely raised his sword in time to block, the impact sending a shockwave through the arena. The force of the blow knocked Ayo off balance, forcing him to skid backward.
The crowd erupted into cheers as Kaelen pressed the attack. His strikes were fast and relentless, each one a calculated display of power. Ayo dodged and parried as best he could, but it was clear he was struggling to keep up.
Kaelen sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. “This is all you’ve got? You don’t belong here.”
Ayo gritted his teeth, summoning flames to his sword. He swung, the blade igniting in a burst of fire. Kaelen deflected the attack with his forearm, the golden runes absorbing the flames with ease. He countered with a devastating punch to Ayo’s ribs, sending him crashing to the ground.
From the stands, Eike’s hands tightened around the railing. “Kaelen’s not holding back. He’s trying to humiliate him.”
Ren’s voice was grim. “Humiliation would be merciful at this point.”
Tessa’s voice was sharp. “Why isn’t anyone stopping this? It’s not even a fair fight.”
Lirien’s eyes narrowed, her green gaze fixed on Ayo. Her usual smirk was absent, replaced by a worried frown. “He’ll figure it out,” she said quietly, though the tension in her voice betrayed her uncertainty.
Kaelen stood over Ayo, his golden runes flaring brighter. “Get up, Solara. Show me something worth my time.”
Ayo pushed himself to his feet, his breaths labored. He gripped his sword tightly, his flames reigniting. This time, he charged, swinging with all his strength. Kaelen sidestepped effortlessly, delivering a sharp elbow to Ayo’s back that sent him sprawling once more.
Kaelen’s runes flared brighter as he activated Runic Nexus, summoning two glowing clones. They moved with perfect synchronization, each one striking at Ayo with deadly precision. Ayo ducked under one punch, only to be caught by a second, the force sending him sprawling.
The crowd gasped as Kaelen’s clones cornered Ayo, their attacks unrelenting. Ayo’s sword clattered to the ground as he stumbled back, his arms raised in a desperate attempt to block.
Kaelen smirked, dismissing the clones with a wave of his hand. “You’re not even worth the effort.”
Ayo’s flames reignited as he summoned a fireball, hurling it toward Kaelen. The attack was powerful, but Kaelen deflected it with ease, the flames dissipating harmlessly against his golden aura.
“Is that all you’ve got?” Kaelen taunted, closing the distance once more. His next strike shattered Ayo’s defenses, sending him to the ground.
Kaelen towered over Ayo’s crumpled form, his golden runes pulsating like a heartbeat. “You should’ve stayed in your Gray Tower where you belong,” he spat, raising his fist, now engulfed in a blinding golden light. “This is the end, Solara.”
The crowd held their breath as Kaelen brought his fist down. Ayo scrambled to dodge, rolling to the side, but Kaelen anticipated the move. With inhuman precision, he pivoted, driving his fist directly into Ayo’s chest.
The impact sent a shockwave through the arena, silencing the crowd. Ayo’s body arched backward, his eyes wide with shock as the golden energy exploded outward. When the light faded, Ayo collapsed to the ground, his chest marred by a gaping, smoldering wound. Blood pooled beneath him, and the faint flicker of fire around him extinguished completely.
The arena was deathly silent. The crowd, so lively moments ago, was frozen in collective disbelief.
In the stands, Eike’s voice was hoarse. “No… No, no, no!” He stood, gripping the railing tightly as his entire body trembled. “Kid… Get up…”
Ren’s normally calm demeanor shattered. His rings clinked together as his hands shook. “He’s not… breathing.”
Tessa’s gasp was sharp, her hands covering her mouth as tears welled in her eyes. “This… This can’t be happening.”
But it was Lirien who broke. Her fiery demeanor crumbled as her green eyes filled with tears. “Ayo!” she screamed, her voice cracking. She gripped the railing, her knuckles white. “Get up, you idiot! You can’t… You can’t just…”
Tears streamed down her face as she whispered, “You promised you wouldn’t lose…”
Kaelen stepped back, panting heavily. His expression faltered as he looked at Ayo’s lifeless body. “You… You made me do this,” he muttered, though his voice lacked its usual bravado. “You were too weak…”
The professors were stunned into silence, their focus torn between Kaelen and the motionless figure on the arena floor.
The silence in the arena stretched unbearably, the oppressive tension broken only by the faint crackling of residual energy from Kaelen’s attack. For a moment, it seemed as if the duel was over.
Then, a faint ripple stirred the air, emanating from Ayo’s broken body.
The shadows around him twitched, coiling unnaturally as if they had a will of their own. Slowly, they began to crawl toward the gaping wound in his chest, merging together to form an opaque mass that covered the injury like living armor. The wound didn’t heal, but the bleeding stopped, the shadows pulsing faintly as they stabilized him.
Kaelen took a step back, his amber eyes narrowing. “What the hell…”
A low hum began to fill the arena, a deep, resonant vibration that seemed to come from everywhere at once. The air grew thick, heavy, and suffocating. Spectators in the stands began to shift uncomfortably, their expressions turning to confusion and fear.
Lirien’s eyes widened, her voice barely a whisper. “Nyvra…”
The oppressive energy of Nyvra surged, and suddenly, the arena was engulfed in a violent explosion of purple light. A beam shot into the sky, splitting the clouds above and sending a shockwave that rattled the entire Gold Tower. The protective barriers, already weakened, shattered with an ear-splitting crack, fragments of golden energy dissipating like shards of glass.
The crowd erupted into chaos.
Professor Mirek Thaloran, his aether manipulation faltering, shouted to the others. “The barriers are gone! We need to evacuate now!”
Professor Isla Kaevryn didn’t hesitate. Glyphs lit up around her as she began teleporting students out of the stands. “Upper levels first! Go, go!”
In the chaos, Professor Theron Veyda barked orders to the remaining staff. “What about Kaelen?”
Professor Caen Valrohn, his focus on stabilizing the crumbling arena floor, barely glanced up. “It’s Kaelen. He’ll manage—focus on the helpless students!”
Eike was already halfway down the steps, his fists glowing faintly with mana as he ignored the shouts of the professors. “Ayo!” he bellowed, his usual cocky demeanor replaced with raw panic.
Ren grabbed Eike’s arm before he could leap into the arena. “You can’t—look at it!” His voice was strained, and his blue eyes flickered toward the storm of shadows enveloping Ayo. “That’s not something we can stop.”
Tessa clutched the railing, her knuckles white. “We should’ve stopped this before it even started…”
Lirien stood motionless, her green eyes locked on Ayo’s form. For once, she was silent, her mind racing as she tried to comprehend the power surging from him.
Ayo’s body rose slowly from the ground, suspended by the swirling shadows. His dark, two-strand twists began to unravel, the intricate patterns loosening and giving way to a cascade of long, curly hair. Streaks of white crept through the strands like creeping frost, spreading until his hair was fully transformed into a brilliant, glowing white, radiant against the pulsing darkness around him. His eyes opened, glowing with a piercing violet intensity that seemed to bore into the very soul of anyone who met his gaze.
The shadows around him didn’t just move—they writhed, their forms shifting into jagged tendrils that radiated an aura of predatory hunger. They pulsed in time with the Nyvra saturating the air, each pulse sending tremors through the arena.
Ayo’s breathing was ragged, his chest heaving as the shadows wove tighter around him, forming a dark, jagged armor-like shell over his torso. His movements were no longer hesitant or clumsy; they were fluid, almost animalistic, as if he were moving on pure instinct.
Kaelen stared, his bravado cracking under the weight of the oppressive energy. “What… are you?”
Ayo didn’t respond. His gaze locked onto Kaelen, unblinking and predatory, as if the older student were nothing more than prey.
The oppressive Nyvra energy surged again, causing the professors to stumble as they struggled to maintain control of the situation. The light in the arena flickered as if it couldn’t compete with the raw power radiating from Ayo.
Professor Theron Veyda, his voice grim, shouted, “This isn’t normal! That’s not just Nyvra—it’s something else entirely!”
In the stands, Eike’s voice broke through the chaos. “Ayo, if you can hear me, don’t lose yourself!” His tone was desperate, the cocky confidence stripped away.
But Ayo didn’t seem to hear. The transformation wasn’t just physical—it was primal, a release of the power he’d suppressed for so long. Every instinct in his body screamed for him to fight, to destroy the threat in front of him.
Kaelen, to his credit, didn’t back down. Gritting his teeth, he summoned his clones again, their golden energy shimmering brighter than before. “You think you’re the only one with power?” he snarled, his voice laced with fury.
The clones charged, their movements synchronized as they surrounded Ayo. But this time, Ayo didn’t dodge. His shadows surged outward like a tidal wave, obliterating the clones in an instant. The force of the attack sent Kaelen skidding back, his boots carving grooves into the stone floor.
Kaelen barely had time to recover before Ayo was on him, moving faster than he could track. A shadow-covered fist slammed into Kaelen’s gut, sending him flying into the arena wall. The impact cracked the stone, and Kaelen slumped to the ground, coughing violently.
The crowd fell silent once more, the weight of Ayo’s power pressing down on them like a physical force.
The arena was deathly silent as Kaelen slumped against the cracked wall. His breaths came in shallow, ragged gasps, and blood trickled from the corner of his mouth. But even now, he forced himself to his feet, his legs shaking under the weight of his battered body.
Kaelen wiped the blood from his lip and spat on the ground. His amber eyes burned with fury as he glared at Ayo. “You think… you’ve won?” he growled, his voice hoarse but defiant. “I’m not done… not yet.”
Summoning the last reserves of his strength, Kaelen’s runes flared to life once more. This time, they spread across his entire body, golden light enveloping him in a protective aura. With a roar, he charged at Ayo, his fists crackling with concentrated energy.
Ayo didn’t move.
Kaelen’s first strike connected, a devastating punch aimed directly at Ayo’s head. The impact sent a shockwave through the arena, shaking the ground beneath them. But when the dust cleared, Kaelen froze.
Ayo hadn’t flinched.
The shadows wrapped around Ayo’s body absorbed the blow, rippling as if mocking the effort. Slowly, Ayo turned his glowing violet eyes toward Kaelen, his expression devoid of emotion, but his presence radiated pure, unrestrained malice.
Kaelen stumbled back, his aura flickering. “What… what the hell are you?”
Ayo tilted his head slightly, almost like a predator studying its prey. Then, without warning, he moved.
Ayo was a blur of motion, closing the distance between them in an instant. His shadows lashed out, striking Kaelen with enough force to send him hurtling across the arena once more. Kaelen tried to stand, but Ayo was already there, a shadow-clad hand gripping his throat and lifting him off the ground.
The audience watched in horror as Ayo slammed Kaelen into the ground with bone-crushing force, the impact creating a crater beneath them. The once-confident Gold rank was now coughing blood, his body broken and trembling.
From the stands, Eike shouted, his voice desperate. “Ayo! That’s enough! You’ve won—stop this!”
Lirien’s fists clenched, her usual smirk replaced with a look of unease. “He’s not stopping…”
Ren’s voice was low, his usually calm demeanor cracking. “This… isn’t Ayo anymore.”
Tessa stared, her face pale. “He’s going to kill him.”
Kaelen, bloodied but defiant, managed to croak out, “I… won’t… lose…” Summoning the last remnants of his Runic Nexus, he created a single clone, its form flickering and unstable. The clone charged at Ayo with a desperate fury.
Ayo turned his gaze toward the clone, his eyes narrowing. The shadows surged, splitting into dozens of jagged tendrils that pierced the clone from all sides. It dissolved into golden light, leaving Kaelen alone and helpless.
With a low growl, Ayo turned back to Kaelen. The shadows around his arm shifted, forming into a long, blade-like shape. He raised it high, his glowing eyes reflecting Kaelen’s broken form.
Kaelen tried to crawl away, but his body refused to obey. “No… stay back…”
Ayo’s blade-arm struck with merciless precision, slicing through Kaelen’s chest. Blood sprayed across the arena floor as Kaelen gasped, his eyes wide with shock. The blade retracted, but Ayo wasn’t done.
With a feral snarl, Ayo grabbed Kaelen by the shoulder and drove him into the ground again. The shadows around him twisted and coiled, wrapping around Kaelen’s body like a predator consuming its prey. Each movement was deliberate, calculated, and devastating.
Kaelen’s screams echoed through the arena as the shadows crushed him, their jagged edges tearing through his uniform and flesh. His aura flickered one last time before extinguishing entirely.
In the stands, Professor Theron Veyda stood frozen, his voice filled with horror. “He’s… gone feral.”
Professor Elira Lysvehn shouted, her voice trembling. “We have to stop this now!”
As the last vestiges of Kaelen’s life force faded, Ayo stood over his opponent, the shadows receding slightly but still clinging to his body like living armor. His glowing eyes flicked toward the crowd, scanning them with a predatory gaze.
The air was thick with Nyvra, making it nearly impossible to breathe. Students in the stands were coughing, their faces pale as the oppressive energy bore down on them.
In the silence that followed, Ayo slowly turned his back on Kaelen’s lifeless form. His shadows rippled as if satisfied, but his expression remained unreadable.
The professors, finally regaining their composure, rushed onto the field. Professor Mirek Thaloran created a massive aether barrier around Ayo, while Professor Isla Kaevryn teleported Kaelen’s body out of the arena.
Eike vaulted over the railing, landing on the arena floor with a heavy thud. “Ayo!” he shouted, his voice raw. “It’s me! Snap out of it!”
Ayo’s gaze turned toward Eike, the glowing violet in his eyes dimming slightly. For a moment, it seemed as if recognition flickered across his face. Then, without a word, he collapsed to the ground, the shadows dissipating into the air.
The arena was in shambles, the once-immaculate floor scarred and broken. The spectators sat in stunned silence, their faces pale and their eyes wide with shock. The oppressive Nyvra lingered, a haunting reminder of the chaos that had unfolded.
From the stands, Lirien’s voice was low, almost a whisper. “What… did we just witness?”
Eike knelt beside Ayo’s unconscious form, his expression a mixture of relief and worry. “You’re going to be okay, kid,” he muttered, though his voice lacked its usual confidence.
As the professors began to restore order, the realization dawned on everyone present: Ayo Solara wasn’t just another student. He was something far more dangerous—and far more extraordinary.
The stars blanketed Ardencrest Academy, casting their gentle light over the now-still campus. The moon hung high, its silvery glow illuminating the spires of the towers and the cobblestones of the winding paths below. Ascension Week had ended, leaving the academy quieter than it had been in days, but the aftershocks of the week’s events still reverberated through the air. Even in the silence of night, the atmosphere buzzed faintly, charged with lingering energy.
Students whispered in hushed tones in dormitories and common areas, their voices carrying snippets of awe, fear, and disbelief.
“Did you hear? Kaelen… he didn’t make it.”
“Ayo Solara… a Gray rank did that to a Gold? What even is he?”
“And Lirien Veyra hasn’t left his side since the duel. That can’t just be coincidence.”
“Three boxes of Aetherleaf tea. Do you have any idea how much that’s worth?”
“Forget the tea! What about the bed-sharing? They’ve practically been glued together.”
Lirien had grown used to the whispers, though these rumors had an added bite. She brushed off the comments, smirking whenever someone dared to speak too loudly. To her, it was all just noise. But when it came to Ayo, her actions felt different. She couldn’t fully explain why she stayed by his side, why she felt compelled to protect him in ways she rarely extended to others. It unsettled her as much as it intrigued her.
Ayo jolted awake with a sharp gasp, his body trembling as if shaking off the remnants of a nightmare. Sweat clung to his skin, his chest heaving as he instinctively clutched at his side. The pain he expected wasn’t there, but the memory of Kaelen’s devastating blow lingered like a ghost, echoing in his mind.
He blinked, taking in his surroundings. The familiar walls of his Gray Tower room greeted him, dimly lit by the soft, flickering glow of the enchanted lanterns. The air was cool, carrying the faint scent of lavender and the subtle hum of residual mana.
His hand drifted to his chest, fingers tracing the spot where Kaelen’s attack had left a wound that should have killed him. The skin was smooth, unbroken, but the memory of pain refused to fade. He exhaled shakily, leaning back against the headboard.
The sound of a door creaking open snapped him from his thoughts. Ayo’s eyes darted to the source of the noise.
Lirien stepped into the room, her silhouette framed by the dim moonlight. Her crimson hair, damp and loose from her shower, spilled over her shoulders, glinting faintly as she moved. She wore a towel wrapped tightly around her, and her bare feet padded softly against the floor. The faint scent of lavender followed her, mingling with the air and grounding Ayo in the present.
“You’re awake,” she said, her voice steady but carrying a note of relief. Her sharp green eyes scanned him, assessing his condition with careful precision.
Ayo blinked, momentarily disarmed by her presence. “I… I think so. How long?”
“Six days,” Lirien replied, stepping toward him. “You’ve been out since the duel.”
“Six days?” Ayo repeated, his voice thick with disbelief. His mind raced, fragments of the fight flashing before him—Kaelen’s relentless power, the overwhelming darkness, the shadows that had consumed him.
Lirien tilted her head, her gaze softening. “Stay there,” she instructed, her tone firm yet gentle. She grabbed a set of sleepwear from a nearby chair and disappeared into the bathroom.
When Lirien returned, she was dressed in loose, comfortable sleepwear, her damp hair brushed and glimmering faintly in the moonlight. She carried herself with the same confidence Ayo had come to expect, but her eyes betrayed a depth of emotion she rarely showed.
She crossed the room and sat on the edge of the bed. “You scared me,” she admitted, her voice quieter now. “You scared all of us.”
Ayo looked away, guilt creeping into his chest. “I didn’t mean to—”
“I know,” Lirien interrupted, her tone firm but understanding. “But Kaelen… he didn’t make it.”
Ayo froze, her words hanging heavily in the air. “What?”
“They stabilized him after the duel, but the damage…” Lirien trailed off, her expression hardening. “He passed yesterday.”
Ayo’s breath caught, his chest tightening. Despite everything, he hadn’t wanted this. Kaelen had pushed him to his limits, but the thought of his death left a bitter taste in Ayo’s mouth.
Lirien placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch grounding. “It’s not your fault,” she said firmly. “Kaelen made his choices. He knew what he was getting into.”
Ayo nodded slowly, though the guilt lingered.
Lirien crossed the room with a purposeful stride, her long crimson hair shimmering as it caught the faint light of the enchanted lanterns. She moved to the cupboard where Ayo stored the tea supplies, opening it with a flick of her wrist. A small, satisfied smile tugged at her lips as she pulled out the familiar box of Aetherleaf tea.
Ayo watched her silently, the memory of her earlier teasing still fresh in his mind. He glanced at his hands, the faint tremble in his fingers betraying the lingering tension from their conversation. When Lirien turned back to him, holding the box in one hand and a teapot in the other, her expression was one of practiced calm.
“Tea,” she declared, placing the items on the small table beside the bed. “Because clearly, you need it more than I do.”
Ayo raised an eyebrow. “You’re the one making it, though.”
Lirien shrugged, pouring water into the teapot. “Call it penance for putting up with your melodrama.”
He huffed softly, but the corners of his mouth twitched upward. The scent of Aetherleaf began to fill the room, its subtle floral aroma mingling with the faint lavender from Lirien’s earlier shower. The air grew warmer, the tension between them ebbing away with each passing moment.
When the tea was ready, Lirien handed him a cup and took one for herself. She perched on the edge of the bed, her posture relaxed but her eyes sharp. Ayo sipped tentatively, the heat spreading through his chest and easing the tightness he hadn’t realized was there.
“So,” Lirien began, her voice light but her gaze fixed on him. “Do you want to know what you missed while you were out?”
Ayo nodded, bracing himself. “Go on.”
Lirien leaned back slightly, cradling her cup in both hands. “Where do I even start? Let’s see… Kaelen’s duel with you is still the most talked-about thing in the academy. The Gold Tower is practically in mourning, and the professors are trying to keep the other students from panicking.”
Ayo frowned, his gaze dropping to his cup. “Kaelen… he didn’t make it, did he?”
Lirien’s expression shifted, her teasing smirk replaced by something softer. “No,” she admitted, her voice quieter now. “He passed a few days after the duel. The damage was too much, even for him.”
Ayo nodded slowly, the weight of her words settling heavily in his chest. He hadn’t known Kaelen well, but the memory of the duel—the sheer ferocity of their battle—flashed vividly in his mind. Despite everything, he hadn’t wanted this.
“But it’s not just Kaelen they’re talking about,” Lirien continued, her tone lightening slightly. “The real buzz is about you.”
Ayo blinked, startled. “Me?”
“Of course you.” Lirien’s smirk returned, her green eyes gleaming with mischief. “You’re the Gray who took down a Gold, unleashed a terrifying transformation, and nearly destroyed the arena in the process. Half the students are in awe, and the other half are terrified of you.”
“That’s… not exactly comforting,” Ayo muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.
“Oh, and then there’s the other rumors,” Lirien added, her tone growing more playful.
Ayo tensed, dread pooling in his stomach. “Other rumors?”
Lirien leaned closer, her smirk widening. “The ones about us. Apparently, we’re married now.”
Ayo choked on his tea, coughing violently as his face turned crimson. “W-What?!”
“Well, think about it,” Lirien said, clearly enjoying his reaction. She began ticking off points on her fingers. “We’ve shared a bed, shared tea, shared vulnerable moments… That’s basically a wedding where I’m from.”
Ayo groaned, hiding his face in his hands. His eyes glowed faintly pink, betraying his growing flustered state. “You’re impossible.”
“No, really,” Lirien said, her smirk softening into something more sincere. “Those are the rumors. I wasn’t lying this time.”
Ayo peeked through his fingers, his blush deepening as he tried to process her words. The idea of the entire academy believing they were married was absurd, but the way Lirien said it—half teasing, half serious—made his heart race in a way he couldn’t quite explain.
They sipped their tea in silence for a moment, the warmth of the drink soothing Ayo’s frayed nerves. He glanced at Lirien, her sharp features softened in the dim light. Despite her usual confidence and teasing demeanor, there was something about her presence that felt grounding, even comforting.
“Why did you stay?” he asked suddenly, the question slipping out before he could stop it.
Lirien raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”
“I mean… all of this.” Ayo gestured vaguely, his hands trembling slightly. “You stayed by my side for six days. You didn’t have to.”
Lirien’s smirk faded, her expression growing thoughtful. She set her cup down and leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees. “I guess… I just didn’t want you to wake up alone. You’ve been through enough.”
Her words hit Ayo harder than he expected. He stared at her, his chest tightening with a mixture of gratitude and something deeper he couldn’t quite name.
Lirien tilted her head, her smirk returning faintly. “And maybe I like keeping you on your toes. Someone’s gotta make sure you don’t do anything stupid.”
Ayo chuckled softly, the sound low and tentative. “Thanks, I guess.”
“Don’t mention it,” Lirien replied, lifting her cup again. “Literally. Don’t mention it. I have a reputation to uphold.”
Ayo laughed, the sound easing the tension between them. For the first time in days, he felt a flicker of normalcy, a reminder that he wasn’t as alone as he sometimes believed.
Ayo glanced at Lirien, her presence a steady anchor amidst the chaos of his thoughts. Slowly, he began to realize just how much she had come to mean to him.
When the tea was finished, Lirien stood and set the cups aside with a deliberate slowness, as if reluctant to let the quiet moment end. She stretched slightly, her crimson hair cascading over her shoulder like a living flame in the moonlight. Turning back toward Ayo, she regarded him for a long moment before crossing the room and slipping under the blanket beside him.
Ayo tensed as her warmth pressed against him, his heart thundering in his chest. Her presence was magnetic, her proximity disarming. Without hesitation, Lirien rested her head on his chest, her breath soft and steady against his skin. The move was so casual, so natural, that it left Ayo completely unprepared.
He felt his body stiffen, his thoughts spiraling as her weight settled against him. He hadn’t been this close to anyone before—not like this. His mind scrambled for a response, but all he managed was a halting, “L-Lirien…”
“Relax, Solara,” she murmured, her voice gentle but teasing. “I don’t bite.”
Her fingers brushed against his arm as she adjusted her position, the light touch sending a shiver down his spine. Ayo swallowed hard, his glowing pink eyes softening as the rush of embarrassment gave way to something calmer. Tentatively, he lifted his arm and wrapped it around her shoulders. The motion felt awkward at first, but the way Lirien sighed and nestled closer eased his hesitation.
“You’re frustratingly reckless,” she murmured, her voice quieter now, almost a whisper. “But there’s something about you… something worth protecting.”
Her words hung in the air, wrapping around Ayo like an invisible thread. He stared up at the ceiling, his thoughts swirling. Why did she care so much? Why had she stayed by his side when it would have been easier to walk away?
Ayo thought back to the past few days—or at least what he could piece together from what she’d told him. Lirien had been there for him, slept beside him every night, and watched over him while he was unconscious. She’d joked about it earlier, but the reality of her actions struck him with unexpected force. She didn’t have to do any of it.
“Why?” Ayo’s voice broke the silence, quiet and uncertain. “Why do you care?”
Lirien didn’t answer immediately. Her green eyes were half-closed, her expression thoughtful as her fingers idly traced patterns on his chest. The motion was soothing, grounding him in a way he didn’t fully understand.
“I don’t know,” she admitted finally. “Maybe it’s because you’re so infuriating. You’re reckless, stubborn, and you keep throwing yourself into danger without thinking. But…” She paused, her tone softening. “You remind me of someone I used to know. Someone who believed in doing the right thing, even when it didn’t make sense. I guess I see a little bit of that in you.”
Her admission caught Ayo off guard. He turned his head to look at her, but her gaze was fixed somewhere distant, lost in a memory he couldn’t reach. He didn’t press her for details; the weight in her voice told him it wasn’t something she shared lightly.
Instead, he let the silence stretch between them, comfortable and warm. His hand, resting on her shoulder, tightened slightly as if to reassure her—or maybe himself.
“You’re not what I expected, Solara,” Lirien said after a moment, her tone returning to its usual playful lilt. She tilted her head to look up at him, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “Most people would have crumbled after what you’ve been through. But you? You just keep going. It’s maddening.”
Ayo chuckled softly, the sound low and tentative. “Guess I’m just too stubborn to quit.”
“That’s one way to put it,” she teased, her smirk returning. But her eyes softened, and her next words carried a note of sincerity that caught him off guard. “Don’t ever change, Solara. The academy needs people like you.”
Ayo felt his chest tighten, her words stirring something deep within him. He thought of the duel, of Kaelen’s death, of the shadows that had consumed him. He thought of the rumors, the whispers that painted him as something to fear. But Lirien’s presence, her unwavering support, cut through the noise like a lifeline.
“Thank you,” he said quietly, the words barely audible.
“For what?” Lirien asked, tilting her head.
“For staying,” Ayo replied. His voice carried a weight he hadn’t intended, but he didn’t regret it.
Lirien’s expression softened, her smirk fading into something gentler. She didn’t respond immediately, but the way she shifted closer, her hand resting lightly over his heart, spoke volumes.
The room fell into a serene stillness, the only sounds the faint rustle of leaves outside and the quiet rhythm of their breathing. Ayo’s mind began to quiet, the chaos of the past week fading into the background. He glanced down at Lirien, her eyes now closed, her face relaxed in sleep. The soft rise and fall of her breath was comforting, anchoring him in the moment.
For the first time in days, Ayo felt at peace. The warmth of Lirien’s presence and the steady beat of her heart against his chest melted away his lingering fear and guilt. Slowly, his eyes drifted shut, and he allowed himself to surrender to the quiet embrace of sleep, knowing he wasn’t alone.