Two weeks had passed since that fateful day at the beach, and Haruto Hoshikawa found himself standing at the grand entrance of the Elemental Academy. The towering gates loomed above him, adorned with intricate carvings representing the various elements. He could feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety bubbling within him, the weight of his newfound powers still fresh in his mind.

As he stepped through the gates, a wave of energy washed over him. Students filled the grounds, laughter and chatter resonating in the air as they prepared for the opening ceremony. Haruto’s heart raced as he tried to take it all in, the grandeur of the academy overwhelming him.

He spotted a fellow student, a boy with spiky brown hair and bright eyes, approaching him. “Hey there! You must be new! I’m Taro, and I’ll show you around,” he said, flashing a friendly smile.

“Thanks, I’d really appreciate that!” Haruto replied, eager to learn more about his new home.

Taro led Haruto through the sprawling campus, pointing out various facilities. “Over there is the training hall where we practice our elemental techniques. The library is just around the corner— it’s huge! And that building over there? That’s where we have our classes. You’ll love it here!”

As they walked, Haruto couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging wash over him. However, the excitement of the tour was soon overshadowed by a commotion nearby. Haruto glanced to his left and spotted Aoi Yukishiro, her ice-blue hair standing out among the crowd. But she didn’t look like her usual self; a group of students surrounded her, their laughter ringing with malice.

“Look at the little Ice Mage,” one of them sneered, pushing her lightly. “Thinking she can be part of the Academy with those powers?”

Aoi stood her ground, her posture strong, but Haruto could see the flicker of annoyance in her eyes. Without thinking, he turned to Taro. “I need to help her,” he said, determination surging through him.

“Wait! It’s not worth it, man. They’re just bullies,” Taro cautioned, but Haruto had already started toward Aoi.

“Hey!” he called, stepping into the fray. “Leave her alone!”

The bullies turned, surprise washing over their faces. “And who are you?” one of them demanded, crossing his arms.

“I’m Haruto Hoshikawa. If you have a problem with her, you have a problem with me!” he declared, his voice steady.

The bully scoffed, glancing at Aoi. “You think you can take us on? You’re just a newbie.”

Aoi shot Haruto a grateful look, her expression a mix of surprise and appreciation. “I can handle this, Haruto,” she said, her tone fierce.

“No one should have to handle it alone,” Haruto replied, standing resolutely beside her.

The bullies exchanged glances, realizing they were outnumbered, and with one last glare, they backed off, retreating into the crowd.

“Thanks for that,” Aoi said, her voice softer now. “I appreciate it.”

“Of course,” Haruto replied, feeling a rush of pride. “You didn’t deserve that.”

As they made their way to the cafeteria, Haruto felt a sense of camaraderie developing between them. They grabbed their drinks and settled at a table. Haruto glanced around, taking in the bustling atmosphere filled with students excitedly discussing their futures.

“I can’t believe you’ve been here since you were ten,” Haruto said, shaking his head in disbelief. “What’s it like?”

Aoi smiled, a hint of nostalgia in her eyes. “It’s intense but rewarding. We learn so much every day. The squad entering test is coming up soon, and it’s pretty tough.”

“What’s the test like?” Haruto leaned in, curiosity piqued.

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“First, we go through a dungeon filled with golems that can absorb magic. It’s all about strategy and teamwork,” Aoi explained, her eyes brightening as she spoke. “Then we have team matches, and finally, individual battles to showcase our skills. The squad leaders watch and decide who joins their squads based on performance.”

Haruto felt a mix of excitement and nerves at the thought of the test. “That sounds incredible but also really challenging.”

“It is,” Aoi confirmed, a serious look crossing her face. “But it’s a chance to show what we can do. And if you ever need help, just ask. We’re all in this together, right?”

“Right!” Haruto replied, feeling a newfound determination. With friends like Aoi by his side, he was ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead.

They finished their drinks and Haruto couldn’t shake the feeling that this was only the beginning of an incredible journey, one filled with friendships, growth, and the awakening of his true potential.

As the cafeteria buzzed with excitement, Haruto and Aoi finished their drinks and prepared to part ways. Haruto felt a sense of camaraderie growing between them, and he wasn’t ready to let it end just yet.

“I had a great time today, Aoi,” he said, smiling. “Thanks for showing me around.”

Aoi grinned back, her eyes sparkling. “No problem! I’ll show you the rest of the academy tomorrow. We still have a lot to cover.”

“Sounds good! I’ll see you then,” Haruto replied as they exchanged goodbyes, the anticipation of the following day lingering in the air.

As Haruto walked to his new dormitory, he couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. The academy was a place of opportunity, but it also meant leaving behind the familiar. Once he entered his room, he took a moment to absorb his surroundings. The space was modest but cozy, with a window that overlooked the sprawling grounds.

Sitting on his bed, he took a deep breath, letting the reality of his new life sink in. He missed his mother already. Reaching for a piece of parchment and a quill, he began to write a letter.

Dear Mom,

I’ve made it to the Elemental Academy. It’s amazing here! I’ve already met some friends, including Aoi, the girl we met at the beach, remember? She’s been really helpful and shows me around. I’m a bit nervous about the squad entering test coming up, but I promise I’ll do my best. I miss you so much and can’t wait to tell you all about my adventures. Love you!

After sealing the letter, Haruto felt a sense of relief wash over him. He knew that his mother would be proud of him for taking this step.

The next day, bright and early, Haruto met Aoi in the courtyard, where the sun spilled golden light over the academy grounds.

“Ready to finish the tour?” Aoi asked, her enthusiasm infectious.

“Definitely!” Haruto replied, grinning. Together, they explored the remaining areas of the academy. Aoi showed him the training grounds, where students practiced their elemental skills under the watchful eyes of instructors.

“This is where you’ll really learn to harness your powers,” Aoi explained, pointing to the various training areas. Next, they visited the library, a grand building filled with shelves of ancient tomes and scrolls on elemental magic and history. Haruto marveled at the vast collection, feeling a deep sense of reverence for the knowledge contained within those walls.

As they wrapped up the tour, Haruto felt a sense of belonging solidifying in his heart.

Finally, the day of classes arrived, and students shuffled into their designated classrooms, buzzing with excitement and apprehension. Haruto settled into his seat, glancing around at his classmates, feeling the weight of expectations resting on his shoulders.

Their teacher, a tall woman with silver hair and sharp features, entered the room. “Welcome to your first class at the Elemental Academy. I’m Instructor Mira, and I’ll be guiding you through the fundamentals of elemental magic.”

After introducing themselves, she continued, “I know you’re all eager to prove yourselves, especially with the squad entering test approaching. I’ve heard about your recent awakening, Haruto.” Her eyes narrowed slightly. “Are you confident you can handle it?”

Before Haruto could respond, Aoi interjected. “He’ll be fine, he’s strong.”

Haruto felt warmth spread through him at Aoi’s words. She was showing her faith in him, and it ignited a spark of determination within him.

The week passed quickly, filled with lessons and training sessions. Haruto worked hard to improve his skills, pushing himself to keep up with the other students. As the days counted down to the test, the atmosphere in the academy grew charged with anticipation.

Finally, the day arrived. Students gathered in the courtyard, buzzing with excitement and nerves. Haruto felt the adrenaline surging through him as he caught glimpses of the squad captains—each one a master of their element, exuding confidence and strength.

But one thing stood out: the Fire Squad captain was absent. Whispers rippled through the crowd, confusion and surprise etched on the faces of the students.

“Where could she be?” Aoi murmured beside Haruto, concern knitting her brow.

Before they could ponder it further, the instructors called everyone to attention. Haruto’s heart raced as he prepared to enter the dungeon for the first stage of the test, ready to prove himself and face whatever challenges awaited him