**Two Years of Training**

Two years had passed since Alex began his rigorous training at the School of Swords. The days had been filled with relentless drills, intense study, and countless sparring sessions. His body had grown stronger, his reflexes sharper, and his mind more focused. The journey had been long, but Alex was driven by a determination to be the best.

One afternoon, as Alex was training in the courtyard, Lila arrived to check on him. She watched in awe as he moved with incredible speed and precision, his movements almost a blur. To her, it was like witnessing a god at work.

"Alex," she called out, catching his attention.

He paused, wiping sweat from his brow, and smiled at her. "Hey, Lila."

She approached, her eyes filled with admiration. "You've become amazing, Alex. I can hardly believe it's you. You've been here for four years now. One year of adjusting and then three intense years in those classes."

Alex nodded, remembering the grueling journey. "It's been tough, but I've learned a lot."

Lila smiled. "You've got one more year to go. And this year, it's not just about training. You'll be working with your classmates to fight real monsters and explore labyrinths."

Alex's eyes widened in excitement. "Labyrinths? That sounds incredible."

"Yes," Lila confirmed. "You'll be putting all your training to the test. Starting tomorrow, you'll be heading into the first labyrinth with Aiden and your classmates."

**Discussing with Thrain**

Later that evening, Alex found Thrain in the library, buried in ancient texts as usual. He sat down across from the old wizard, who looked up with a smile.

"How's the training going?" Thrain asked.

"Great," Alex replied. "Lila told me that for our final year, we'll be fighting real monsters and exploring labyrinths. It's finally time to put everything I've learned to the test."

Thrain nodded, his eyes thoughtful. "Labyrinths are dangerous, but they're the ultimate test of your skills and courage. Be careful, Alex. Remember what happened last time you faced a labyrinth."

Alex's face grew serious. "I won't forget. I'm more prepared now, thanks to you and everyone here."

Thrain smiled proudly. "Good. Stay vigilant and trust in your training. You've come a long way."

**The Night Before**

That night, Alex lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. His mind raced with thoughts of the upcoming challenges. He felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension, knowing that the real test was just beginning.

As he drifted off to sleep, he dreamed of vast labyrinths filled with monstrous creatures and hidden dangers. He saw himself and his classmates fighting bravely, their skills and teamwork shining through. The dream filled him with a sense of purpose and determination.

**The First Labyrinth**

The next morning, Alex and his classmates gathered at the entrance of the School of Swords. Aiden stood before them, his expression serious but encouraging.

"Today marks the beginning of your final year of training," Aiden announced. "You've all worked incredibly hard to get here, and now it's time to prove yourselves. We'll be heading into a labyrinth, where you'll face real monsters and real danger. Stay together, trust each other, and remember your training."

Alex felt a surge of excitement and determination. He glanced at his classmates, each of them looking equally focused and ready.

Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

Lila was there to see them off, her eyes filled with pride and concern. "Good luck, Alex," she said, giving him a quick hug.

"Thanks, Lila," he replied, feeling her support bolstering his confidence.

**Entering the Labyrinth**

The journey to the labyrinth was filled with anticipation. The landscape changed from the familiar surroundings of Aeloria to rugged terrain, leading to a dark and foreboding entrance carved into the side of a mountain.

Aiden led the way, his presence reassuring. "Stay close and be alert," he instructed as they entered the labyrinth.

The air inside was cool and damp, the walls covered in strange, glowing runes. The passageways twisted and turned, creating a maze that seemed designed to confuse and disorient.

Alex kept his senses sharp, his hand never straying far from the hilt of his katana. The echoes of their footsteps were the only sounds, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

**First Encounter**

As they ventured deeper, they encountered their first challenge: a group of goblin-like creatures, their eyes glowing in the darkness.

"Get ready," Aiden whispered, drawing his sword.

The creatures attacked with surprising ferocity, but Alex and his classmates were prepared. They moved as a unit, their training evident in their coordinated strikes. Alex's katana flashed in the dim light, cutting down the goblins with precision.

One of his classmates, a tall girl named Nora, fought alongside him. Her movements were graceful and deadly, her blade dancing through the air.

"Nice work, Alex," she said, giving him a nod of approval as the last goblin fell.

"Thanks, Nora," Alex replied, feeling a sense of camaraderie.

**Deeper Into the Labyrinth**

With the first challenge behind them, the group pressed on, their confidence growing. The labyrinth seemed to stretch on forever, each passageway revealing new dangers. They faced giant spiders, skeletal warriors, and other nightmarish creatures, each battle testing their skills and resolve.

Alex found himself stepping into a leadership role, his calm demeanor and quick thinking guiding his classmates through the labyrinth. He felt a deep sense of responsibility, determined not to let anyone get hurt.

Aiden watched with a mixture of pride and approval. "You're doing great, Alex. Keep it up."

**The Giants' Nest**

After hours of navigating the labyrinth, they stumbled upon a vast chamber that opened into a giants' nest. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the distant sound of heavy footsteps.

"Stay close," Aiden warned. "This will be tough."

The giants appeared, towering figures with massive clubs. Their roars echoed through the chamber, shaking the very ground beneath them.

Alex felt his heart race, but he focused on his training. "Let's do this!" he shouted, charging forward.

The battle was fierce, the giants' strength and size making them formidable opponents. Alex moved with incredible speed, his katana slicing through the air with precision. He felt a surge of adrenaline, his movements almost automatic.

He realized how far he had come, his training paying off as he fought with the skill and confidence of a seasoned warrior. He split the ground with each powerful strike, cutting down the giants one by one.

**A Close Call**

As the last giant fell, Alex heard a cry of alarm. He turned to see one giant still alive, its massive club raised, ready to strike Nora.

"Nora, look out!" he shouted, rushing to her aid.

With a final, desperate effort, Alex lunged at the giant, his katana piercing its heart. The giant collapsed, narrowly missing Nora.

"Thank you, Alex," she breathed, her eyes wide with relief.

"You're welcome," Alex replied, his heart still pounding.

**Reflections and Resolve**

As the group made their way out of the labyrinth, the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape. The day's battles had taken their toll, but they felt a deep sense of accomplishment.

Aiden gathered them together. "You all did incredibly well today. This is just the beginning. There will be more challenges ahead, but I have no doubt you'll continue to excel."

Alex felt a surge of pride, his determination stronger than ever. He knew that with each passing day, he was becoming the warrior he was meant to be.

**A Moment of Gratitude**

Later that evening, as they rested around a campfire, Nora approached Alex. "Thank you for saving me back there," she said, her voice sincere.

"It was nothing," Alex replied modestly. "We're a team. We look out for each other."

Nora smiled, her eyes reflecting the firelight. "I think I may like you, Alex."

Alex felt a warmth in his chest but knew he had to be honest. "I'm sorry, Nora, but I don't feel the same way. There is only one person I like, and I love her. Her name is Lyra."

Nora's smile faded slightly, but she nodded in understanding. "I see. Thank you for being honest."

**Thoughts of Lyra**

As Nora walked away, Alex's thoughts turned to Lyra. He wondered where she was and how she was doing. The memories of their time together filled him with both longing and hope. He knew that one day, he would see her again. Until then, he had to stay focused and continue his journey.

**The Journey Continues**

As the night grew darker, Alex sat by the fire, reflecting on the day's events. The challenges ahead were daunting, but he felt ready to face them. With Aiden's guidance, Lila's support, and the bond he shared with his classmates, he knew they could overcome anything.

The journey was far from over, but Alex was determined to see it through. Together, they would face the labyrinths, the monsters, and the evil god Shona, ready to protect their world and fulfill their destinies.

This concludes Chapter Fifteen.