Chapter 122: Echoes

In the vast and impressive common hall of the Imperial Academy, the victorious students from recent battles gathered in small groups. The walls of the hall were adorned with tapestries and a large fireplace in the center warmed the room with a golden glow. The excitement in the air was palpable as the young warriors reflected on the intense battles they had fought.

Lacus, with a relaxed smile, reclined in an armchair next to the fireplace, swirling a glass of crystal clear juice in his hands.

"Well, if anyone expected an easy victory, they were disappointed," he commented, looking at the others. "Especially you, Alrik. I thought you were going to incinerate your opponent in five minutes."

Alrik raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms as a small flame danced in his palm. "Control is essential. I don't need to destroy everything around me to win."