Two Weeks Later
"Again!" Lia demanded, bouncing on her toes at the edge of the practice mat. "I almost had you that time!"
Marcus lowered his aura blade, the crimson energy dissipating from around his hand. "We've been at this for three hours. Don't you ever get tired?"
"Nope!" she grinned, her green aura still pulsing vibrantly around her despite the marathon training session. "Enhanced stamina, remember? I could do this all day!"
They were in one of the Academy's private training rooms, granted special access during their recovery period. Officially, they were supposed to be doing "light rehabilitation exercises." What they were actually doing—sparring at near full capacity—would have given the medical wing staff collective heart attacks.
Two weeks of forced rest had nearly driven them both crazy, especially Lia, who treated stillness like a personal insult. The moment the healers cleared them for basic physical activity, they'd immediately pushed those limits as far as they could.
"One more round," Marcus conceded, rolling his shoulders. "Then I need a break."
[Status Update][Name: Marcus (aka "Phoenix")][Age: 10 years, 7 months][Level: 46][HP: 320/320][MP: 600/600][Strength: 73][Dexterity: 89][Constitution: 70][Intelligence: 108][Wisdom: 93][Charisma: 58][Selected Skills:]- [Aura Projection: Level 30]- [Aura Control: Level 33]- [Counter-Magic: Level 28]- [Aura Weaponry: Level 27]- [Magical Theory: Level 24]- [Magical Insight: Level 22]- [Combat Movement: Level 21]- [Undead Insight: Level 2]- [Phylactery Disruption: Level 2]- [Strategic Analysis: Level 17]
His recovery had been remarkable, even by his own enhanced standards. The system had accelerated his healing, and all those new stat points had helped rebuild his physical condition quickly. He'd allocated most of them to Intelligence and Wisdom, with enough to Constitution to ensure he wouldn't find himself in such a vulnerable position again.
Lia took her position across the mat, dropping into a fighting stance. Her recovery had been equally impressive. The silver tracings from the necrotic corruption had faded to barely visible lines, which she proudly showed off rather than concealed. "Battle scars make you look tough," she'd declared.
"Ready?" she asked, her green eyes gleaming with competitive fire.
"Ready," Marcus confirmed, summoning a pair of crimson aura blades around his hands.
Lia attacked without warning, enhanced speed carrying her across the mat in a blur. Marcus sidestepped, bringing one blade up to parry her strike while sweeping the other toward her exposed side. She twisted impossibly, her enhanced flexibility allowing her to bend away from the attack while attempting to sweep his legs.
Their sparring had evolved over the years into something that looked more like a complex dance than a fight. Marcus's precision and tactical insights against Lia's raw power and unpredictability—a combination that had proven effective against everything from elemental disturbances to, apparently, ancient liches.
After several minutes of intense exchange, Marcus finally saw his opening. As Lia committed to an aggressive lunge, he dispersed one aura blade and instead created a small counter-projection that disrupted her footing just enough to throw off her balance. His remaining blade came to rest gently against her neck.
"Point," he said, breathing heavily.
"Cheater," she grumbled without heat. "Using counter techniques in a weapons match."
"Using all available tools," he corrected, dismissing his constructs. "A real opponent won't limit themselves to a single approach."
"Fine, fine," she conceded, flopping dramatically onto the mat. "I acknowledge your superior trickiness. This time."
Marcus sat down beside her, glad for the momentary rest. Despite his enhanced recovery, his MP reserves still weren't back to full capacity. The healers had warned it might take another week or two for complete magical restoration after such severe depletion.
"So," Lia said, staring up at the ceiling, "tomorrow's the big day."
Tomorrow they would formally meet with the Academy Council to discuss their placement in the new specialized program. Their future at the Academy—or potentially beyond it—would be decided.
"Yeah," Marcus replied noncommittally.
Lia propped herself up on her elbows, studying his face. "You're still thinking about it, aren't you? Leaving."
He'd finally told her about his restlessness three days ago, during one of their recovery walks around the Academy grounds. She'd taken it better than expected, after the initial shock wore off.
"I'm considering options," he said carefully.
"Marcus," she said, dropping the joking tone she typically used, "you know you can tell me what you're really thinking, right? Best friends since diapers, remember?"
He couldn't help but smile at that. "Technically, we were just babies in the same nursery."
"Same thing," she dismissed with a wave. "The point is, I know when something's eating at you. So spill."
Marcus sighed, gathering his thoughts. He'd been wrestling with this decision for weeks now, weighing pros and cons, considering paths and consequences. But in the end, it came down to a feeling he couldn't ignore.
"I need more," he admitted finally. "Something different. The Academy has taught us a lot, but it's all so... controlled. Safe. Even this new program will just be more of the same—advanced lessons, supervised field work, everything measured and approved."
"And you want what? Danger? Chaos?" Lia asked, sounding genuinely curious rather than judgmental.
"Freedom," Marcus clarified. "The chance to test myself against real challenges, not Academy-approved scenarios. To see what's out there beyond Emberfall. To find out what I'm really capable of."
Lia nodded slowly. "I get it. More than you might think." She sat up fully, crossing her legs. "You know the masters are always telling me to hold back, to control my enhancement better. 'Don't break that, Lia.' 'That's too much force, Lia.' Sometimes I just want to see what happens if I really cut loose."
That surprised him. "You've never mentioned feeling restricted before."
She shrugged. "You weren't the only one doing some thinking during recovery. That lich... it made me realize how much bigger and scarier the world is than what they show us here. And how much stronger I need to become."
They sat in thoughtful silence for a moment, the weight of decisions looming over them.
"So," Lia said finally, "if you do leave... what would you do? Where would you go?"
"I've been doing some research," Marcus replied. "There's this place called Eldavia Academy."
"Eldavia?" Lia's eyes widened. "You mean the super elite school for nobles and prodigies? The one that only accepts transfer students who've already mastered intermediate magic?"
Marcus nodded. "They offer specialized advanced training that goes beyond what's available here. But here's the thing - they only accept students who are at least fifteen years old."
"So we'd have to wait five years," Lia concluded.
"We?" Marcus asked, surprised by her use of the plural.
"Well, yeah," Lia said as if it were obvious. "You think I'd let you go to some fancy advanced academy without me? No way. If you're going, I'm going too. Eventually."
Marcus smiled, relieved that she wasn't taking his plans as abandonment. "The thing is, I don't want to wait here for five more years. I want to go out, gain real experience, build a reputation."
"While I stay here," Lia finished for him, suddenly understanding. "In the specialized program."
"It makes sense," Marcus said carefully. "You could develop your enhancement abilities further, gain the control and precision you've been working toward. We'd both be preparing for Eldavia, just in different ways."
"For five years," she said, letting that sink in. "That's a long time to be apart."
"I know," Marcus acknowledged. "But maybe we both need to grow independently for a while. Find our own strengths. And then reunite at Eldavia, both ready for advanced training."
Lia was quiet for a long moment, staring at her hands. When she looked up, there was a fierce determination in her eyes that he recognized all too well.
"Fine," she said, her voice steady. "You go chase real-world experience. But I'm making you a promise right now, Marcus Phoenix. When we both get to Eldavia in five years, I'll be stronger than you. Way stronger."
He blinked, surprised by her response. "Is that so?"
"Absolutely," she declared, her familiar competitive fire returning. "While you're off fighting who-knows-what, I'll be here mastering every aspect of enhancement. I'll use the specialized program to push the limits of what's possible. When we meet again at Eldavia, you won't recognize what I can do."
Despite the seriousness of the conversation, Marcus found himself smiling. This was the Lia he knew—turning everything into a challenge, a contest to be won.
"It's a deal," he said. "Five years. Then we both go to Eldavia and see who's learned more."
"Oh, it'll be me," she assured him with absolute confidence. "No question."
[System Message: Nothing motivates personal growth like a five-year competition with your best friend. At least it's healthier than your usual plan of "go fight dangerous things and hope not to die."]
The Council's Offer
The Academy Council chamber was an imposing circular room at the top of the central tower. Massive windows offered panoramic views of Emberfall City, while the interior was dominated by a round table of polished stone where the twelve Council members sat. Today, only five were present—Archmage Zephyrian, Master Varrick, Master Linnea, Master Thorne, and Magistrate Reeves from the City Council.
Marcus and Lia stood at attention before them, dressed in their formal Academy uniforms—crimson for Marcus, green for Lia, both bearing the insignia of intermediate field operatives.
"Phoenix, Verdant," Archmage Zephyrian addressed them formally. "The Council has reviewed your recent field operation in detail. While the outcome was ultimately positive, the methods employed were... concerning."
Marcus kept his expression neutral, though he noted that Zephyrian didn't look particularly concerned. If anything, the ancient mage seemed intrigued.
"Reckless endangerment," Master Thorne added, his severe expression reminiscent of his son's. "Disregard for established protocols. Unnecessary confrontation with a high-level magical entity."
"With respect, Master Thorne," Marcus replied evenly, "our options were limited. The entity was awakening regardless of our presence, and its containment was actively failing."
"And it would have reached the surface if we hadn't stopped it," Lia added, struggling to maintain a respectful tone. "The whole city could have been in danger."
"Precisely why we're here today," Magistrate Reeves interjected smoothly. "Your actions, while unorthodox, demonstrated capabilities that have drawn significant attention."
Marcus exchanged a quick glance with Lia. This didn't sound like the reprimand they'd been half-expecting.
"The Academy and City Council have jointly developed a new initiative," Master Varrick explained. "A specialized unit tasked with identifying, assessing, and addressing unusual magical threats within Emberfall and its surrounding territories."
"In simple terms," Master Linnea added with a warm smile, "a response team for magical emergencies that fall outside standard containment protocols."
"And you want us to join this... team?" Marcus asked cautiously.
"We want you to help form its foundation," Archmage Zephyrian corrected. "Your combined abilities—counter-magic, enhancement, and Mr. Thorn's transfiguration—create a uniquely effective combination against entities that resist conventional magical approaches."
"You've selected Lysander too?" Lia asked, not quite hiding her displeasure.
"Mr. Thorn has already accepted the position," Master Thorne confirmed with a hint of pride. "His recent advancements in adaptive transfiguration make him an ideal candidate."
Marcus processed this information carefully. A specialized response team—essentially what they'd been working toward in the Field Training Initiative, but with more independence and higher-stakes missions. Under normal circumstances, it would be exactly the kind of opportunity they'd hope for.
But he'd made his decision, and last night, he and Lia had finalized their respective plans. Hers to stay and excel in the specialized program to prepare for Eldavia; his to leave and pursue real-world experience toward the same goal.
"What exactly would this position entail?" he asked, buying time to formulate his response.
"Advanced training in threat assessment and containment," Master Varrick outlined. "Specialized curricula tailored to your unique abilities. Field operations as needed, with increasing autonomy as you demonstrate readiness."
"You would continue formal Academy education," Magistrate Reeves added, "but with significant exemptions from standard requirements to focus on your specialized functions."
"And the limitations?" Marcus pressed. "What restrictions would apply to our field operations?"
The Council members exchanged glances, apparently surprised by the question.
"Standard safety protocols would apply," Master Varrick responded. "Initial operations would include senior oversight, with gradual transition to self-directed missions as you prove capable."
"We need your answer today," Archmage Zephyrian stated. "The program begins formal implementation next week, and training schedules must be finalized."
Marcus glanced at Lia, who gave him an almost imperceptible nod. They'd discussed this possibility extensively and had already made their decisions, though neither had expected to announce them quite so soon.
"With respect to the Council and appreciation for the opportunity," Marcus began carefully, "I must decline the position, though Lia wishes to accept."
The reaction was immediate—raised eyebrows, exchanged glances, Master Thorne's face darkening with displeasure.
"Decline?" Master Linnea echoed, genuine surprise in her voice. "But this program was designed with your abilities specifically in mind."
"May I ask why?" Archmage Zephyrian inquired, studying him with those ancient eyes that seemed to see far too much.
Marcus took a deep breath. "I've decided to pursue independent training and field experience beyond the Academy for the next five years, with the goal of applying to Eldavia Academy when I'm fifteen."
"Eldavia?" Master Thorne repeated, his tone suggesting Marcus had lost his mind. "That institution caters to nobility and exceptional prodigies with years of advanced training."
"I'm aware of their standards," Marcus replied calmly. "Which is why I need these five years to build the expertise and reputation necessary for acceptance."
"You intend to leave the Academy entirely?" Magistrate Reeves asked, bringing clarity to the discussion. "To do what, exactly?"
"To apply my abilities in real-world contexts," Marcus explained. "There are numerous legitimate opportunities for practitioners with my specialization—mercenary companies, expedition support, independent contracting. All valuable experience that would strengthen my application to Eldavia."
"All of which typically require practitioners of legal adult age," Master Thorne pointed out coldly.
"Not universally," Marcus countered, having researched this thoroughly. "The Frontier Guild accepts exceptional candidates for apprenticeship regardless of age, as does the Wayfinder Association. Both have established precedents for young specialists with confirmed field experience."
Master Linnea leaned forward, her expression concerned rather than angry. "This is a significant decision, one that would permanently alter your educational trajectory. Have you fully considered the implications?"
"I have," Marcus confirmed. "For weeks now."
"And you?" Archmage Zephyrian turned to Lia. "You wish to remain and join the specialized program?"
"Yes, sir," she answered firmly. "I believe the program offers the best opportunity to develop my enhancement abilities to their fullest potential." She glanced briefly at Marcus. "And in five years, I plan to join him at Eldavia Academy."
The Council members exchanged looks again, this time with a mix of concern and thoughtfulness.
"We cannot legally prevent you from withdrawing," Magistrate Reeves stated finally to Marcus. "The Academy charter allows for voluntary separation at any age, provided certain conditions are met. However, as a minor, you would require guardian consent."
And there was the complication Marcus had anticipated. He had no traditional guardians—he was effectively a ward of the Academy itself, his legal status managed through complex arrangements typical for gifted children with magical aptitude.
"Which, in your case," Master Varrick continued, "would require approval from the Academy administration as your legal custodian."
"Approval that I cannot imagine being granted," Master Thorne added with finality.
Marcus had prepared for this. "Academy regulation 47-B provides for temporary release of wards for educational purposes, with the intention of returning to higher education," he cited. "My plan to apply to Eldavia Academy after five years of practical experience would qualify under that provision."
The Council looked genuinely surprised that he'd researched Academy regulations so thoroughly.
"You've given this considerable thought," Archmage Zephyrian observed, something like admiration flickering in his ancient eyes.
"Yes, sir," Marcus acknowledged.
A long silence fell over the chamber as the Council members considered the situation. Finally, Master Varrick spoke.
"I propose a conditional release," he said carefully. "Five years of independent operation, with the explicit understanding that you will apply to Eldavia Academy at the end of that period. During this time, you will maintain regular contact and operate under certain safety protocols."
It was exactly what Marcus had hoped for. "I accept those terms," he replied. "With gratitude for the Council's consideration."
"There will be conditions," Master Thorne insisted, clearly unhappy with the arrangement but unable to prevent it entirely.
"Of course," Marcus agreed, knowing that some constraints were inevitable.
"You will maintain monthly contact through communication crystals," Master Varrick outlined. "Quarterly reports on your activities and locations. And you will accept Academy assistance if you encounter situations beyond your capabilities."
"Agreed," Marcus confirmed.
"Additionally," Archmage Zephyrian added, "you will carry Academy identification and credentials. Your actions will reflect upon this institution, and any serious impropriety would result in immediate recall."
"Understood," Marcus responded.
"And what of your partnership with Verdant?" Magistrate Reeves asked, glancing between them. "The specialized program was designed with your complementary abilities in mind."
"I believe Lia will excel regardless," Marcus said confidently. "And there are other counter-specialists in the Academy who could fill that role, though perhaps with different approaches."
"Lysander's good enough with magical counter-measures," Lia added, looking like the words physically pained her to say. "He's no Marcus, but he'll do in a pinch."
Master Thorne's eyebrows rose at this grudging acknowledgment of his son's abilities.
"And what of your intentions for Eldavia, Verdant?" Archmage Zephyrian asked. "That institution typically admits only a handful of students from non-noble backgrounds each year."
"I'll be one of them," Lia stated with absolute confidence. "The specialized program will give me the foundation I need. And by the time I apply, I'll be the most advanced enhancement specialist this Academy has ever produced."
Her certainty was so complete that even Master Thorne looked momentarily impressed.
"Very well," Magistrate Reeves concluded. "The administrative details will be arranged over the coming days. Phoenix, you are granted conditional release beginning next week, subject to the terms discussed. Verdant, you will begin the specialized training program with the other selected candidates at the same time."
After a few more minutes of clarifying details and signing preliminary documents, they were dismissed from the Council chamber. It wasn't until they were several corridors away that Lia finally spoke.
"Well, that went better than expected," she said, her tone deliberately casual. "I thought they'd put up more of a fight about letting you go."
"I think they're curious to see what I'll accomplish," Marcus replied. "And how it might reflect on the Academy if I do eventually get into Eldavia."
"Always practical, those old sorcerers," Lia agreed with a forced smile that didn't quite reach her eyes.
Marcus could see she was trying to be supportive, but the reality of their impending separation was beginning to sink in. They'd been inseparable for most of their lives—partners, friends, practically siblings in all but blood. Five years was a long time, especially at their age.
"Hey," he said gently, "this isn't goodbye forever. I'll stay in touch through the communication crystals. And before we know it, we'll both be at Eldavia, competing to see who's mastered more advanced techniques."
"I know," she said, punching his arm lightly. "And I meant what I said before. When we're both at Eldavia, I'm going to be so much stronger than you it'll be embarrassing. Lysander's going to help me, whether he wants to or not."
"Poor Lysander," Marcus laughed. "He has no idea what he's in for."
"Better warn him before you go," Lia suggested with a mischievous grin. "Common courtesy to let him know I'll be using him as a training dummy."
As they walked back toward their dormitories, making jokes and planning the week ahead, Marcus felt a bittersweet mixture of excitement and sadness. He was looking forward to the freedom and challenges that awaited him beyond the Academy's walls. But he would miss Lia terribly—her energy, her unwavering support, her ability to turn even the most serious situation into something to laugh about.
Yet he knew this separation was necessary for both of them. They had grown together for so long; now it was time to see who they could become apart. And then, reunited at Eldavia, they would see what they could accomplish together with their independently developed abilities.
Unexpected Visitor
The week passed in a blur of preparations. Marcus organized his belongings, converted his Academy stipends into portable currency, studied maps of the regions beyond Emberfall, and researched potential contacts and opportunities in Frontier settlements.
The Academy administrators, true to the Council's decision, processed his conditional release with minimal resistance. He received a lightweight communication crystal for his mandated check-ins, official identification marking him as an Academy-trained specialist on educational leave, and an emergency recall talisman as a safety measure of last resort.
The night before his departure, Marcus was in his dormitory room, finalizing his packing. His possessions were surprisingly few—some clothes, basic equipment, a small collection of reference texts, and the specialized tools of his trade. Everything fit into a single enchanted pack designed for field operatives.
A knock at his door interrupted his inventory. Opening it, he found not Lia as expected, but Lysander Thorn.
"Thorn," Marcus acknowledged, genuinely surprised. They hadn't spoken since before the lich incident, and he'd assumed Lysander would ignore his departure entirely.
"Phoenix," Lysander replied with a curt nod. "May I come in?"
Curious despite himself, Marcus stepped aside. Lysander entered, glancing around the nearly empty room with an unreadable expression.
"I heard about your decision," he said finally, turning to face Marcus. "It's ambitious."
"Thanks?" Marcus replied, uncertain if this was criticism or a rare compliment.
"Eldavia Academy is... selective," Lysander continued. "My family has connections there. Several Thorns have attended over the generations."
"Of course they have," Marcus thought but didn't say.
"The competition for transfer admission is fierce," Lysander added. "They reject fully qualified applicants regularly simply to maintain their exclusivity."
"I'm aware of the challenges," Marcus said. "Which is why I need these five years to build a compelling case for acceptance."
Lysander studied him thoughtfully. "You're serious about this. It's not just an excuse to escape Academy oversight."
"I'm completely serious," Marcus confirmed. "Eldavia offers advanced counter-magic training that isn't available anywhere else. If I want to truly understand and develop my abilities, it's where I need to be."
Lysander seemed to come to some internal decision. "In that case," he said, reaching into his robes, "you should have this."
He produced a small, ornate metal case bearing the Thorn family crest. Opening it, he revealed a signet ring with a deep blue gemstone.
"What is this?" Marcus asked, confused.
"A letter of introduction," Lysander explained. "Or rather, the means to obtain one. When you're ready to apply to Eldavia, present this to my father. It will confirm that I've vouched for your abilities, and he will provide a formal recommendation from the Thorn family."
Marcus stared at the ring in genuine shock. "Why would you do this?"
Lysander's expression was complex—part reluctance, part resignation, part something that might almost be respect.
"Our rivalry aside," he said carefully, "your counter-magic abilities are... exceptional. It would be wasteful for them to remain underdeveloped due to aristocratic prejudice."
Coming from Lysander, it was the highest praise Marcus had ever received.
"And," Lysander continued, a hint of his usual superiority returning, "when you and Lia both eventually attend Eldavia, it will reflect well on the Academy, and by extension, on those of us who trained alongside you."
Ah, there was the self-interest Marcus had expected. But still, the gesture was surprising and genuinely helpful.
"Thank you," he said sincerely, accepting the case. "This is... unexpected."
"Don't misunderstand," Lysander clarified quickly. "This doesn't mean I approve of your methods or your decision to abandon the specialized program. It simply means I recognize potential when I see it, and believe in proper educational advancement."
"Of course," Marcus agreed, suppressing a smile. Heaven forbid Lysander admit to an actual human emotion like friendship or concern.
"One more thing," Lysander added, moving toward the door. "Lia will be... difficult to work with in your absence. She's already informed me that she intends to 'surpass your abilities through relentless practice, using me as her personal training target, so we can both get into Eldavia and show you up.'"
This time Marcus did smile. "That sounds like Lia."
"Indeed," Lysander said dryly. "Any advice for surviving this arrangement?"
"Don't underestimate her," Marcus said seriously. "Her enhancement abilities have more subtlety and potential than most people realize. And..." he hesitated, then added, "she responds well to direct challenges. If you want her to master a technique, tell her it's probably too advanced for her current level."
Lysander's lips twitched in what might have been a suppressed smile. "Psychological manipulation through reverse motivation. I'll keep that in mind."
As he reached the doorway, Lysander paused. "Good luck, Phoenix," he said, not quite looking back. "I expect to see both you and Lia at Eldavia in five years. Don't disappoint."
With that, he departed, leaving Marcus staring thoughtfully at the case in his hand.
[System Message: Was that... actual human decency from Lord Fancypants? Maybe that lich knocked the universe slightly off-kilter after all.]
Farewell
Dawn broke clear and crisp over Emberfall City. From the Academy's main gates, the sprawling metropolis stretched toward the horizon—towers of stone and crystal, bustling markets, the distant glitter of the river that bisected the urban expanse.
Marcus stood just inside those gates, pack secured, travel clothes replacing his Academy uniform for the first time in years. Master Varrick and Master Linnea had come to see him off, along with a small group of younger students who had heard about his departure and gathered to witness the unusual event.
And Lia, of course. She stood slightly apart from the others, her expression a complicated mixture of pride, worry, and poorly concealed sadness.
"Your documentation," Master Varrick said, handing him a sealed credential case. "Present these to authorities if questioned about your age or activities. Most settlements recognize Academy certification."
"Thank you," Marcus replied, tucking the case securely into an inner pocket.
"Remember to activate your communication crystal monthly for reports," Master Linnea reminded him. "If we don't hear from you, we'll assume you're in trouble."
"I'll remember," Marcus promised.
"Your first destination?" Master Varrick inquired.
"Stoneridge," Marcus answered. "It's a trading hub at the edge of the Frontier, about a week's journey on the western road. Good place to gather information and look for appropriate work."
Master Varrick nodded approvingly. "A sensible choice. The Wayfinder Guild maintains an outpost there, and they often need magical specialists for caravan protection."
Last-minute advice and farewells occupied a few more minutes, and then it was time. The masters tactfully moved away, giving Marcus and Lia a moment of privacy.
"So," Lia said, trying to sound casual and failing miserably. "Five years, huh?"
"Five years," he confirmed.
"That's a long time."
"Not so long," he countered gently. "And we'll stay in touch. I'll send messages through the communication crystal. Tell you about my adventures, hear about yours."
"It won't be the same," she said, finally dropping the pretense of nonchalance. "We've never been apart for more than a few days since we were babies."
"I know," Marcus acknowledged. "But we both need this, Lia. You need to develop your abilities without relying on our partnership. And I need to find answers that I can't discover here."
"Yeah, yeah," she said, blinking rapidly. "Get all enlightened and fancy educated. Just remember what I said before."
"That you'll be stronger than me when we're both at Eldavia?" he smiled. "I'm counting on it. I expect you to push Lysander to his limits helping you train."
"Oh, I will," she promised, her usual mischievous glint returning. "He's going to regret ever agreeing to this specialized program."
They stood in awkward silence for a moment, neither quite knowing how to say goodbye.
"Here," Lia said suddenly, pulling something from her pocket. "I made this for you. Well, not made exactly. Enhanced."
She handed him a small stone, perfectly smooth and oval, with a faint green glow emanating from within.
"It's enhancement-infused," she explained. "I've been working on making the effect permanent in objects. This one should last for years. It'll help you recover MP faster if you keep it with you."
Marcus closed his fingers around the stone, feeling the gentle pulse of Lia's distinctive energy. "Thank you," he said sincerely. "I'll keep it with me always."
"You better," she warned. "And you better use that communication crystal. I want updates. The good stuff, not just 'I'm alive, training going well' boring reports."
"I promise," he agreed.
Another awkward pause, and then Lia launched herself forward, wrapping him in a fierce hug.
"Be careful out there," she whispered. "And come back. Five years. Not a day longer. We're going to Eldavia together."
"I will," he promised, returning the hug just as tightly. "Take care of yourself. Don't drive Lysander completely insane."
"No promises on that one," she replied with a watery laugh.
The massive gates swung open, revealing the road that would take him beyond the city limits. The path to his future—to freedom, to answers, and eventually, to reunion with Lia at Eldavia Academy.
"Ready?" Master Varrick asked, rejoining them.
Marcus nodded, shouldering his pack. "Ready."
With a final smile for Lia, he stepped through the gates. The road stretched before him, winding down from the Academy's hilltop position through the city below and beyond to the distant horizon.
He didn't look back, though he was tempted. Looking back would make this harder than it already was. Instead, he focused on the path ahead, on the first steps of a journey that would test everything he'd learned and reveal who he truly was meant to become.
[Level Up!][You are now Level 47][All stats increased by 1][5 Stat Points Available][New Quest Alert!][Title: Path to Eldavia][Description: Gain the experience and reputation necessary for acceptance to Eldavia Academy][Reward: 50000 XP, Eldavia Academy Admission, Advanced Counter-Magic Techniques][Failure: Return to Emberfall Academy][Time Limit: 5 years]
[System Message: From a baby in a burnt restaurant to a wandering magical prodigy with elite academy ambitions. It's been a wild decade. Just try not to die out there alone—no Lia to bail you out this time. And remember, the best part of any journey is having someone—and somewhere—worth coming back to.]
The road unwound before him, each step taking him further from everything familiar and closer to whatever destiny awaited. He had chosen his path, and in five years, he would return—to meet Lia again, both of them stronger and wiser, ready to take on Eldavia Academy together.
Behind him, the Academy's silhouette gradually diminished against the morning sky. Ahead, the world opened wide, full of promise and danger in equal measure. And somewhere in that world were the answers he sought—about his system, his purpose, and the reason he had been given this second chance at life.
It was time to find them.