The students gathered in clusters, each representing their respective classes, eagerly preparing for their departure.
Amidst the crowd, I managed to catch a glimpse of Renz and his team. His face bore a persistently sour expression, his disappointment evident.
Feeling a tap on my shoulder, I turned to find Hanz beside me.
"So, what rewards did you receive?" he inquired.
Lina and Lily, who stood on either side of me, were already proudly displaying their stones and potions to Tasha and their other teammate, Kayla.
With a sigh, I reached into my dimensional ring and pulled out the dark magic spellbook.
“I figured you’d ask for a dark magic spell book.” He laughed, “So what spells are in there?”
“I haven’t opened it yet. I’m going to wait until I get back to the academy.”
He shook his head in understanding, “Don’t learn those new spells too fast. I just got my time to shine with my new one.”
I smiled. “I’ll make sure not too.”
After I slid the spellbook back into my dimensional ring, I heard Professor Rinehall's voice resonate over the bustling crowd.
"We will be entering the Warp Gate in an orderly fashion," he announced.
As his words hung in the air, groups of eager individuals began to step onto the Warp gate, vanishing into thin air as though they had never existed. It was a mesmerizing spectacle, a testament to the mysterious power of the gate. Soon enough, it was our turn.
The warp gate emitted a dazzling, ethereal glow, and with a rush of energy, we were whisked away from the battle-scarred landscape to the familiar surroundings of the academy. The transition was as disorienting as it was exhilarating.
The shift in climate was nothing short of astonishing. The biting winds and the relentless snowfall that had accompanied us on our quest were replaced by a gentle, refreshing breeze. It was a moment of respite, where the very air seemed to embrace us with its perfect balance of warmth and coolness.
As the day had worn on, the academy's bustling class schedule had come to a close, and students, chattering with excitement and relief, made their way back to the dormitories. Lina, her face glowing with accomplishment, offered her farewells.
"I'll see you guys tomorrow," Lina said with a warm smile, her hand waving gracefully.
Lily and Kayla mirrored her gesture, their expressions a blend of satisfaction and camaraderie.
In due course, it was just Hanz, Tasha, and me. We stood amidst the fading daylight, the world transitioning from the vibrant hues of the day to the more subdued shades of evening.
Tasha broke the silence with a hearty laugh. "So, are we really not going to talk about that spar you guys had? You two never mentioned how formidable you've become. Now, I feel like I'll need to push myself even harder."
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Hanz joined in the laughter, a twinkle in his eye. "It's not something we talk about often, but Fal and I have been sparring since our childhood days.”
Tash sighed, “I see, but don’t think you guys are a step ahead of me just yet. I still have some tricks up my sleeve as well. She smiled and waved us off.
***
Leonardo Ladell’s (Academy Headmaster) P.O.V
Two envelopes rested on my desk, each housing a set of letters. The first was simple, devoid of any distinctive markings or identifiers, likely a communication from one of my colleagues. The second bore an intricate, royal purple insignia, which seemed to exude an air of importance. My curiosity, however, was less drawn to the ornate envelope, and I felt a stronger inclination to open the plain one.
Trusting my instincts, I broke the seal of the unadorned letter. It was a message from Rinehall, a commendatory note celebrating the achievements of three exceptional students.
As I perused the contents, one name in particular captured my attention: Falyn Elway.
I had known Falyn's elder sister since her enrollment, and naturally, I had assumed that they would share some similarities. However, my assumptions couldn't have been more wrong.
There was something unique about this young man. A distinct aura surrounded him, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity with his personality, although I couldn't quite pinpoint why.
Carefully, I folded the letter back into its envelope and slipped it into one of my desk drawers.
I turned my attention to the other envelope with a deep sigh, then picked it up. As I read its contents, my eyes narrowed, and a somber mood settled upon me.
The deadline was fast approaching, and I was facing a decision. Ever since the Kings made their announcement, it felt as though my time had been sliced in half.
Once again, I carefully folded the letter back into its envelope, but this time I employed my magic. With a flick of my hand, I made the envelope float in the air, and in a swift motion, I sent micro-winds slashing toward it, tearing it to shreds.
Releasing another sigh, I left my office behind and made my way outdoors. The city was a welcome breath of fresh air, and I couldn't bear to contemplate the perils it might soon face.
Yet, I was acutely aware that it wasn't my role to make such decisions.
***
Zephryus Elway’s P.O.V
"Vael, slow down," I called out to my spirited companion.
We were currently soaring through the boundless skies of the Thezmaer Kingdom, en route to our meeting with the elven king. The graceful arcs of our griffin would have usually tempted me to join Vael in a dance through the heavens. However, today was different. We had an important task on the king's behalf.
We landed gracefully infront Kingdoms gates and I was unhapplit greeted with around fifty bowen arrows poiing at me for the towering brick walls
I put my hands in the air, “I am here on behalf of King Stellar.”
At my announcement I heard a voice yell, “Halt!”
A pulse of wind accompanied their voice as the figure floated down from the towering wall and appeared before me.
It had been quite some time since I had last seen her. Her honey-blonde hair and elegant, pointy ears stirred up a sense of nostalgia within me, but her perpetual deadpan expression tugged at my heartstrings.
"Princess! It's great to see you," I began, ready to exchange pleasantries, but before I could even finish my greeting, she abruptly interrupted.
"Shut up, Zephyrus. What the hell are you doing here?"
"Ouch, princess. Not even a hug or anything. Is that how anyone should treat a childhood friend?" I teased with a lighthearted tone.
Her eyes narrowed, and annoyance seeped into her voice. "Friends don't leave without explanation. I didn't hear from you until two years ago," she retorted. "Friends don't do that, Zephyrus."
My expression grew somber, and a sense of numbness settled in my heart. "I had business to attend to, and I still do," I explained, reaching out to place my hand on her shoulder. "I do care about you, Nyla. It was a complicated time for me."
She brushed my hand off, her anger still palpable. "I'll escort you to my father," she said, her gaze directed towards the sentry posted at the top of the wall. "Open the Gate!"