**A Knock on the Door**

One morning, Alex was roused from his sleep by a loud knock on his door. Before he could respond, the door swung open, and Aiden walked in with a grin on his face.

"Good morning, Alex!" Aiden called out. "Hope you're ready for some news."

Alex sat up, rubbing his eyes. "Hey, what's up?"

Aiden sat on the edge of the bed. "I've got some new classes for you. You've been doing very well, and I want to put you in with the best of the best here. You've made it so far, and this next step is crucial."

Alex's eyes widened. "The best of the best? That sounds intense."

"It is," Aiden nodded. "This class will take four years to complete. It's a long time, but we need to prepare you properly."

"Four years," Alex repeated, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. "That's a long time."

"Yes, but it will be worth it," Aiden assured him. "Also, I need your last name. You never mentioned it."

"Johnson," Alex said. "Alex Johnson."

Aiden nodded, jotting it down. "Alex Johnson, got it. Also, any wives or kids?"

Alex shook his head. "No wives, but there's a girl back home. No kids, not that I know of."

Aiden chuckled. "Alright, thanks. Tomorrow, I'll introduce you to your new classmates."

**Training Day**

After Aiden left, Alex spent the next several hours training, pushing himself to new limits. The intensity of his exercises was a reminder of how far he had come and how much further he still had to go. He practiced his swordsmanship with a renewed vigor, knowing that the path ahead would be challenging.

His mind often wandered to thoughts of his past and his uncertain future. Despite the weight of his responsibilities, he felt a sense of purpose that kept him focused.

**Meeting with Lila**

Later in the day, Alex met up with Lila. They sat on a bench overlooking the training grounds, the sounds of clashing swords and determined shouts filling the air.

"So, Aiden's putting you in with the best of the best, huh?" Lila said, a smile playing on her lips.

"Yeah," Alex replied. "Four years of intense training. It's going to be tough."

This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

"You'll do great," Lila said confidently. "And after the four years are up, I'll join you on your adventures. We'll make a great team."

Alex smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude for her support. "I'm looking forward to that. Having you along will make a huge difference."

They talked for a while about their plans and dreams, the conversation lightening Alex's heart. Lila's presence was a comforting reminder that he wasn't alone in this journey.

**A Conversation with Thrain**

As the sun began to set, Alex made his way to the tavern to meet Thrain. The familiar scent of ale and roasted meat filled the air as he entered, finding Thrain at their usual table.

"Evening, Thrain," Alex greeted, taking a seat.

"Evening, Alex," Thrain replied, raising his mug. "What's on your mind?"

"I've been thinking about something," Alex began. "I never told you, Lyra, or Elandor my last name. It's Johnson, by the way."

Thrain looked thoughtful. "We never asked because, in our world, last names aren't typically shared unless you're family through marriage or until death on a tombstone."

Alex nodded, understanding the cultural difference. "That makes sense. It's just something that's always been on my mind."

Thrain smiled. "Well, now we know. Alex Johnson. It has a nice ring to it."

They shared a laugh, the moment lightening the weight of the day. Alex felt a deep sense of camaraderie and trust with Thrain, knowing that they were in this together.

**Preparing for the Future**

The next day, Aiden introduced Alex to his new classmates. They were a diverse group of talented individuals, each with their own unique skills and backgrounds. Alex felt a sense of excitement and determination as he prepared to embark on this new phase of his training.

Over the following weeks, the intensity of his training increased. The classes were rigorous, pushing him to his limits both physically and mentally. But with each challenge, Alex grew stronger, his skills becoming more refined and his confidence growing.

Lila often joined him during his training breaks, offering words of encouragement and advice. Their bond deepened, and Alex found himself looking forward to their future adventures together.

Thrain continued his research, uncovering more about Shona and the realm travelers. His knowledge and wisdom were invaluable, providing Alex with a deeper understanding of the forces at play.

**A New Perspective**

As the months passed, Alex settled into a routine, balancing his intense training with moments of reflection and camaraderie. The city of Aeloria had become a second home, and he felt a growing connection to the people and the place.

One evening, after a particularly grueling training session, Alex sat alone in the courtyard, watching the stars. The night was clear, and the sky was a canvas of twinkling lights.

He thought about his journey so far, the challenges he had faced, and the friends he had made. The path ahead was still uncertain, but he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was not just training for himself but for the people who depended on him, for the realms that needed protection.

**A New Resolve**

As the first year of his training drew to a close, Alex felt a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the future. The journey ahead was long, but he was ready to face it with determination and courage.

He knew that with Aiden's guidance, Lila's support, and Thrain's wisdom, he could overcome any obstacle. Together, they would confront the evil god Shona and protect the realms from disaster.

**Looking Forward**

One morning, as the sun rose over Aeloria, Alex stood at the edge of the training grounds, watching the city come to life. The future was filled with possibilities, and he felt a sense of excitement for the adventures that awaited.

He took a deep breath, feeling the cool morning air fill his lungs. "I'm ready," he said to himself, a smile spreading across his face.

With a new resolve and a heart full of determination, Alex stepped forward, ready to embrace the challenges and adventures that lay ahead.

This concludes Chapter Fourteen.