Training

The duel was set for the weekend, and anticipation buzzed through the academy like wildfire.

Ivara's challenge had been the talk of every hall and corner, and even students not usually invested in such matters found themselves intrigued. After all, Ivara's precision affinity in combat was well-known even before due to her family being one of the greatest elves in Soleil.

From time to time, Aiden could see some of the older years even betting between Ivara and hom. It wasn't common the first years would be leading the duels, after all.

Aiden was determined. Keeping his 10th place meant more than just a number on the academy's ranks- it was a symbol of how far he had come since arriving here.

Losing wasn't an option.

Every moment outside of class became an opportunity to prepare. Between lessons, during breaks, and late into the evenings, Aiden trained relentlessly.