Shadow_Rein

When Ray Rein—an unyielding pillar of strength and the revered head of House Rein—vanishes without a trace, the responsibility of holding their legacy together falls to his younger brother, Aquacriddle Rein. But how can a young man, weighed down by doubt and untested in the fires of leadership, protect his house from the ambitions of the Empire's cutthroat elite?

Determined to save his family and uncover the truth about Ray's disappearance, Aqua enters the prestigious Asria Magic Academy—a crucible where power is forged through relentless trials and strategic brilliance. Here, amidst formidable rivals and treacherous scheming, Aqua must confront his deepest fears, pushing his abilities to their very limits. Each step forward reveals not only the strength within him but also the cracks in the Empire's towering facade.

As alliances are tested and shadows of betrayal loom ever closer, Aqua faces a defining question: Can he rise to meet the daunting legacy of his brother, or will the weight of it all crush him—and the House they both hold dear?

Shadow of Rein

As the trio headed to submit their forms, Venustusia approached them with a curious gleam in her eyes. "What subjects have you chosen?" she asked. She already knew Claire's decision to study Magic, Business Management, Politics, and Alchemy. She was also aware of Casial's enthusiasm for Swordsmanship, but the second subject Casial would pick was a mystery. Even to Casial himself—until this very moment. With a thoughtful pause, he spontaneously decided on Business Management and Politics, aligning his choices with Aqua and Claire.

Venustusia's gaze lingered on Aqua, her curiosity evident. She couldn't help but wonder what the young Aquacriddle Rein would choose.

Claire straightened her posture and replied respectfully, "I will be taking Magic, Business Management, Politics, and Alchemy." Her words were spoken with poise, reflecting a sense of duty toward her family.

Casial, brimming with excitement, quickly added, "Aqua and I are choosing Swordsmanship, Business Management, and Politics, Mother!"

Venustusia raised a brow, surprised yet intrigued by Aqua's decision. However, she kept her thoughts to herself, offering instead a warm smile. "Good luck and study well," she said, her voice gentle but full of encouragement.

The three thanked her before heading off to finalize their forms. Arsia Magic Academy required every freshman to select at least three subjects, and with the submissions complete, they proceeded toward their dormitories.

As they walked, Casial turned to Claire with a teasing grin. "Claire, don't you think it's time to head to your dorm?"

"I am," Claire retorted, her frustration breaking through as she shot him a glare before heading off on her own.

Aqua and Casial continued toward the boys' dormitory for freshmen, registering themselves upon arrival. The dormitory stood proudly on the academy's expansive campus, its architecture both practical and grand. Inside, the halls were spacious, with an attached training hall designed to foster growth for aspiring warriors and scholars alike. Aqua and Casial were assigned the same room.

Their shared room was strikingly spacious, with pristine white walls radiating tranquility. Behind the beds, large windows offered an enchanting view of the lush forest that bordered the academy grounds. The sunlight danced through the leaves, painting intricate patterns on the floor.

Casial threw himself onto one bed with a grin. "It's quite good, isn't it?"

Aqua stood by the window, his gaze fixed on the tranquil scenery beyond. "Yes, it is," he replied softly, feeling a quiet sense of excitement for the adventures ahead.

Threads of Ambition