The morning sun filtered through the freshly cleaned windows of the Balthor estate, casting golden rays across the polished wooden floors. Kian stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the collar of his academy uniform a sharp black jacket with silver embroidery running along the sleeves and the academy's insignia stitched proudly over the heart: two crossed swords surrounded by a ring of lightning. He tugged at the sleeves, getting used to the way it fit, far more tailored than he was accustomed to.
Nia popped her head into his room, a bright grin spreading across her face. "Looking sharp," she teased, stepping inside. Her own uniform was a deep crimson with silver trims, cut elegantly to match her slender frame. Her hair was tied back in a neat braid, revealing her bright eyes filled with excitement.
Kian turned to her, smirking. "You don't look too bad yourself. Ready for this?"
She straightened her posture, puffing her chest out mockingly. "I was born ready," she laughed, and Kian chuckled along with her.
The walk to the academy was brisk, the city streets bustling with morning life. Vendors called out from market stalls, children ran past with school bags bouncing on their backs, and the scent of freshly baked bread wafted through the air.
When they reached the towering gates of the academy, Kian couldn't help but pause. The walls were high, etched with symbols of protection and legacy, and the main building stretched toward the sky, its spires cutting through clouds like blades.
"Wow," Nia breathed, taking in the sight.
Kian gave a nod. "Yeah. Chandler really pulled some strings for this."
The gates creaked open, and they stepped inside, joining the river of students flowing toward the main entrance. Conversations buzzed around them talk of recent tournaments, new techniques, and rumors of powerful new enrollees. Kian caught the occasional glance thrown his way, whispers following in their wake. He ignored them, keeping his eyes forward.
As they reached the main courtyard, a voice called out from behind. "Hey! You're the new guy, right?"
Kian turned, locking eyes with a tall, broad-shouldered student with sandy blond hair and sharp, calculating eyes. He wore the same uniform but with the insignia trimmed in gold instead of silver. Clearly a higher rank.
"And if I am?" Kian responded calmly, his gaze unwavering.
The guy chuckled, his hands slipping into his pockets. "Just curious. You've got the whole place talking. Rumor has it you just... appeared out of nowhere. Not even in the registry until yesterday."
Nia stepped forward, her eyes narrowed. "What's it to you?"
The guy smirked, nodding his head toward Kian. "Just wanna know if the rumors are true. I heard you've got some real power. Maybe you'd like to show me?"
A small crowd began to gather, whispers and murmurs rippling through the students as they watched the exchange. Kian raised an eyebrow. "I'm not really looking for a fight right now."
The guy laughed loudly, clapping his hands. "Not looking for a fight? In this academy, you don't get much of a choice. How about a little introduction, huh? Name's Ryker. Tier 8," he announced proudly, and the crowd responded with impressed murmurs.
Kian's eyes sharpened. He had never been one to back down from a challenge, but Chandler's words echoed in his mind "Control first, strength later." He took a step back. "I appreciate the welcome, but I'm good."
Ryker's grin faltered, then twisted into something sharper. "What's the matter? Scared?" He leaned in closer, voice dropping to a whisper only Kian could hear. "Or maybe... you're just not as strong as they say."
Kian's eyes flashed with green lightning for a brief moment, and Nia's hand tightened around his wrist. "Kian, don't," she whispered.
But Ryker's grin only widened. "There it is," he said, stepping back and spreading his arms wide. "Come on then. Let's see it."
The courtyard was silent, anticipation thickening the air. Kian's hands flexed at his sides. He knew it wasn't the right time Chandler had been clear about focusing on control but something about Ryker's arrogance was setting his blood aflame.
Nia looked up at him, worry etched into her expression. "You don't have to do this," she whispered.
Kian's gaze softened as he looked at her. "I know." He took a deep breath, his eyes shifting back to Ryker. "But I think I want to."
The crowd stepped back, forming a circle. Ryker's hands crackled with orange energy, sparks dancing across his knuckles. "Good," he said, eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Let's see what you've got."
Kian rolled his shoulders, electricity humming beneath his skin. "You asked for it."
The energy swirled, and the air grew tense. Sparks crackled at Kian's fingertips, and the faint sound of thunder rumbled in the distance.