Three months later, Kael and Lyra arrived before the imposing gates of Azalith Academy, a place where only the most talented could hope to enter.
— "It's enormous…" Kael murmured, awestruck.
Hundreds of aspiring students crowded the central courtyard—all there for the same purpose: to pass the entrance exam.
A mage in golden robes appeared on a raised platform.
— "Welcome, future students! The exam will consist of three trials. Those who fail will be turned away immediately."
Kael took a deep breath. This was his first real challenge.
The first trial was an evaluation duel. Kael was quickly called to the arena. His opponent, a noble with blond hair, looked him up and down with contempt.
— "A commoner? Pathetic. You might as well give up now."
Kael said nothing. He assumed his stance.
— "Begin!"
The noble unleashed a volley of fire bolts. Kael barely dodged, but a sharp pain seared through his shoulder.
He's fast!
But Kael was no longer the weak boy he once was. He inhaled deeply, and a blue glow surrounded his body. The noble's eyes narrowed in disbelief.
— "What?"
Kael lunged forward, striking with his fist. The impact sent his opponent flying backward, his magical shield shattering under the force of the blow.
Silence fell over the arena.
— "Winner: Kael!" announced the examiner.
Whispers rippled through the crowd.
— "Who is this guy?"
— "A commoner beating a noble? Impossible!"
Kael stood, breath ragged. He had just proven he belonged here.
But this was only the beginning.
To be continued…