Morning in Arcadia was a blend of magic and technology, where floating streetlights dimmed as the artificial sun rose over the towering skyline. Holographic advertisements flickered between enchanted parchment signs, while citizens bustled through the streets, their voices weaving into the city's rhythmic pulse.
Within his secluded home, Elian stood before a mirror, adjusting the collar of his academy uniform—a sleek black ensemble with silver accents, a crimson emblem embroidered over the left breast. The insignia marked him as a student of Astralis Academy, one of Elyndria's most prestigious institutions for magical and combat training.
Despite his cold exterior, Elian was not immune to the weight of expectations that came with attending such an elite school. Students at Astralis Academy were ranked based on power and skill, their progress constantly monitored by the faculty and the Celestial Sanctum. With his abilities sealed and his system a secret, Elian had deliberately kept a low profile—at least, until now.
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Arrival at Astralis Academy
The academy itself was a marvel of futuristic enchantment. Its towering spires gleamed under the morning sun, built from a fusion of enchanted metals and crystalline glass. Floating platforms connected different sections of the campus, allowing students to traverse between combat arenas, spellcasting chambers, and research halls with ease.
Elian walked through the grand entrance, his red eyes scanning the crowd. The air buzzed with energy as students engaged in casual duels, testing their affinities in controlled environments. Others reviewed holographic spell scrolls, their instructors hovering nearby, adjusting their techniques with a mere flick of the wrist.
As he navigated through the halls, he caught sight of a familiar figure—Reyna Valcrest.
Reyna Valcrest
Appearance: Long silver hair, icy blue eyes, and an elegant yet battle-hardened demeanor.
Rank: One of the top students at Astralis Academy, holding the title of Silver Star—a rank given only to elite combatants.
Magic Affinity: Specializes in ice and wind magic, known for her precision and overwhelming speed.
Personality: Calm, analytical, but carries an intense competitive spirit. Despite her composed nature, she is deeply loyal to those she respects.
Reyna turned, her gaze locking onto Elian with a hint of curiosity. She had always sensed something off about him—he was too quiet, too composed, almost as if he was hiding something.
"Elian," she greeted, her voice cool as the magic she wielded. "You were absent from yesterday's combat drills. Don't tell me you were slacking off?"
Elian met her gaze without emotion. "I was busy."
She arched an eyebrow but said nothing. Their conversations had always been like this—brief exchanges laced with unspoken challenges.
Before Reyna could press further, another figure approached.
Darian Kael
Appearance: Short dark hair, bronze eyes, muscular build.
Rank: One of the strongest warriors in the academy, holding the title of Crimson Fang.
Magic Affinity: Wields a combination of fire and earth, excelling in close-combat techniques.
Personality: Blunt, headstrong, and fiercely competitive. He thrives on proving himself against strong opponents.
Darian smirked as he crossed his arms. "Elian, still skulking around in the shadows, huh? You should join the combat arena today—unless you're afraid of breaking a sweat."
Elian remained silent, but Eve's voice echoed in his mind.
"These two will be watching you closely. Be careful how much you reveal."
The academy was filled with formidable students, and it was only a matter of time before Elian's presence drew more attention. Unbeknownst to them all, the anomaly unit's investigation was already expanding, and the sanctuary of Astralis Academy might not be safe for much longer.