The training field behind Umbravale's east wing stretched like a scar across the stone. Divided into rings melee, ranged, tactical it had seen thousands of duels, trials, and awakenings.
Today, it hosted silence.
Kieran stood at the edge of the ranged ring, arms folded, watching a set of targets pulse with wardlight. The others spread out behind him, weapons drawn or powers sparked but no one attacked yet.
They were waiting.
---
Instructor Valeir arrived just past second bell. His stride was crisp, voice clear.
"This is not a test," he said. "But it will decide if you're chosen."
Rei grunted. "Chosen for what?"
Valeir turned to face them fully.
"The Convergence begins in a month."
Calla straightened. Nova whistled low.
"I thought that was every five years," Talon said.
"It is," Valeir replied. "But the schedule changed. The other academies are pushing forward. We adapt or fall behind."
He tapped a sigil carved into his vambrace. A glowing map flared to life in the air beside him.
"You already know of Aelbridge, Cindergate, and Varnhold."
He tapped again.
Two new emblems appeared.
"Now, Duskmoor Bastion has entered this cycle. And for the first time in a decade, Larethien Vale is sending its adept."
Selene's eyes narrowed. "That's rare."
"Very," Valeir said. "Larethien doesn't compete unless something's changed."
---
He walked along the field, pausing to meet each student's eyes.
"Your field teams will begin training under rotational pressure. Combat. Rescue. Relic retrieval. Each team will be scored."
"And the top team?" Nova asked.
Valeir's voice stayed level. "Represents Umbravale."
Sera tilted her head slightly.
"Any questions?"
No one spoke.
"Good."
---
They spent the morning in mock skirmishes. Kieran and Calla led one side, Selene and Rei the other.
It was controlled. Clean.
But underneath, tension lingered.
Later, as they rested under the courtyard arches, Talon spoke first.
"You think Duskmoor's team is sending Wraiths?"
"Probably," Nova muttered. "They fight like they've already died once."
"I'm more curious about Larethien," Selene said. "They don't send healers unless they plan to win."
Kieran said nothing.
His hand brushed the edge of the feather wrapped in cloth, hidden under his coat.
---
That night, he sat by the garden wall outside the training dorms.
The stars above were soft. Still.
He let his head rest back against the stone.
For a second just a second the wind around him shifted.
Not a voice. Not a warning.
Just a feeling.
Like a gate waiting to open.
---