strange

Ryker stood tall, his eyes scanning the horizon as he waited for someone to arrive••• no he was infact waiting for someone to arrive.

Looking down he saw the kid he saved some day ago, down on the floor. Judging from his expression and emotion he could tell he had something to say but was holding back

"It's a pity your boat is gone" Ryker spoke looking forward to the reaction on Dawn's face.

But all he got was a determined expression

'He seems hellbent on keeping his little secret, should I tell him I know he is hiding something, his expression would be listless' Ryker chuckled mysterious but before he could put his plan to fruition. The sound of footsteps echoed through the air, growing louder with each passing moment. Ryker's gaze narrowed, his eyes locking onto the figure emerging from the trees.

A man with a warm smile and piercing blue eyes approached Ryker, his hand extended in greeting. "Ryker, it's been too long," the man said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Ryker's expression hardened, and he took the man's hand in a firm handshake. "Elian, it's bad to see you. Why did you come here?"

Elian a friend once fought together side by side,until 'he betrayed me' looking at his face Ryker had a strong urge to hit him square in his face.

Elian chuckled, releasing Ryker's hand. "I don't know either, considering our history."

Dawn's curiosity was piqued, and he asked "what history".

"He never once won against me " Elian said laughing.

Dawn cast his gaze on Ryker

"We fought only once".

"And you got your ass whooped".

Ryker just shrugged not replying to Dawn's comment.

Elian coughed and said "come on we got to get to the academy, Dawn's enrollment waits.

He started moving, sighing ryker followed in his lead, Dawn hesitated before moving along with them.

The three of them set off across the island, their footsteps quiet on the sandy beach. As they walked, Elian pointed out various landmarks and features, explaining the island's unique ecosystem and the various species that called it home.

As they crested a small hill, Dawn's eyes widened in shock. Before him lay a sprawling complex, its buildings sleek and modern. The complex was surrounded by a high wall, topped with barbed wire and guarded by men in Hugh black armour.

Dawn's gaze snapped back to Ryker, his eyes narrowing. "Who, no what are they?" he demanded.

Ryker smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement "there are the whispered left behind by some lost soul".

Seeing the lad looking at him confusing evident in his entire face, Ryker still didn't expend on his words. Elian was the one who toke it upon himself.

"It's truly magnificent for you to notice something off about them, tell me young one what do you feel is off about them". Ryker frowned hearing his disgusting voice.

"They seems as if they are dead"

"How could you tell"

"I don't know, they just seems unlikely to me" looking at Dawn's confused gaze Ryker was reminded of a long lost memory.

"Bravo it's as you said they are indeed dead"

"Then how are they still here"

"It's beca-

"When the time comes you will understand properly". Cutting Elian shut he proceeded to pat the much more confused Dawn on his shoulder admist Elian piercing gaze. Then he went ahead towards the gate which Dawn subconsciously followed due to his bewilderment. As they approached the entrance of the Elyran Academy, just as Ryker stood in front of the large fortress like gate, a wave of Aether washed over him causing the large double door to slide open fit enough to allow eight grown men walking side by side to pass through. Upon entering Dawn saw a new world. The interior of the academy was just as impressive as its exterior, with sleek, modern lines and state-of-the-art facilities.

Dawn's eyes widened as he stepped inside, his gaze darting back and forth as he took in the sights and sounds of the academy. But his wonder was short-lived, as he soon noticed something strange.

"Wait a minute," Dawn said, his brow furrowed in confusion. "Is it...raining in here?"

Ryker and Elian exchanged a knowing glance, and Elian chuckled. "Ah, yes. I forgot to mention that we have a...unique...exam taking place today."

As Elian spoke, the sound of raindrops hitting the floor grew louder, and Dawn looked around in amazement. Water was pouring down from the sky, soaking the floors and and the antique statue. But when Dawn glanced out the still closing doors, he saw that it was sunny and clear outside.

"What's going on?" Dawn demanded, his confusion giving way to frustration. "Why is it raining in here?"

Elian smiled. "It's a Wilderness Survival Practical Exam. The students are being tested on their ability to adapt to unexpected situations and environments."

Dawn's eyes widened as he realized the extent of the exam. "You mean...you're simulating a rainstorm...inside the academy?"

Elian nodded. "That's right. And it's not just the rain. The students will also have to navigate through simulated terrain, avoid obstacles, and find shelter. It's a comprehensive test of their survival skills."

Ryker chuckled. "And it's not just the students who are being tested. The teacher's are also being pushed to their limit."

As Ryker spoke, the sound of thunder boomed through the hallway, making Dawn jump. He looked around, awestruck.

"This is insane," Dawn breathed. "Are you saying that the teachers are the one responsiblefor this rainstorm. "

"Not teachers" shaking his head sideways Elian responded "teacher"

"That's not possible right" seeing the boy whose mouth was gasping open to the extreme, Ryker got irritated.

Elian smiled. "Welcome to the Elyrian Academy, Dawn. We do things a bit differently here."

"Don't try to understand it, it's something even if you ehuast your brain cells you still won't get the answers".

"Are you against any good happenings in my life". Dawn exploded in anger.

Ryker's smile grew, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Perhaps a little," he admitted. "But that's not the point. The point is that you're here now, and you have no choice but to learn here."

"How petty can you be, bringing back passed event". Ryker just stared at him with an expression of mockery in his face.

Dawn's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in determination. "Just you wait" he spat. "I beat you in the most embarrassing way possible."

Ryker's smile grew, his eyes glinting with excitement. "I'm looking forward to it," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.