The Storm Within

Months passed like fleeting shadows, and in that time, Elias honed his control over the elements with relentless determination. What once required immense concentration had become second nature. He no longer struggled to call upon his affinities, weaving them together instinctively. Yet, despite his rapid growth, one challenge still loomed before him—the creation of a triple deviant element.

The whispers of the Void had grown more frequent, guiding him like an unseen mentor. Though cryptic, they nudged him in the right direction, urging him to think beyond the confines of conventional magic. His first success in fusing elements had come when he combined wind and water, creating a torrential storm that raged with unnatural intensity. But he knew this was only a step towards something greater.

Now, standing atop a jagged cliff overlooking the roaring sea, he focused his mana once more. The storm above churned in response to his presence, dark clouds rolling and colliding. He had mastered controlling each of his elements separately, and he had formed a two-element deviant spell, but now came the true test. He inhaled deeply, allowing his mana to surge through him like a coursing river.

His mana core had reached the 4th stage and the color has turned to amber by now, a notable achievement for someone of his age and background, but it was still a far cry from the peak needed to unleash his full potential. His control had sharpened, his reserves expanded, but the true power of his quadruple affinity still eluded him. If he wanted to push his limits further, he needed to push past his current threshold.

Water. Wind. Lightning.

He willed them together, forging them into something entirely new. The air crackled, moisture condensing into droplets that hovered weightlessly around him. A low hum resonated as arcs of electricity danced across the swirling vortex he had summoned.

And then, in a single moment, it all came together.

A spiraling maelstrom of wind, water, and lightning erupted around him. The wind howled, infused with raw energy. Raindrops crackled with electricity, forming streaks of light against the darkened sky. The storm obeyed his will, a seamless fusion of elements. He had done it.

Abyssal Storm.

He clenched his fist, and the storm responded instantly. The power was overwhelming, yet it felt natural. The whispers of the Void fell silent, as if acknowledging his success.

At last, he had taken the next step toward true strength. And with his mana core growing stronger with each passing day, Elias knew he was ready for whatever lay ahead.

—

Several days later, the time had come to leave the Raelith estate. It was time to head to the capital for the academy entrance exam.

Elias stood at the entrance of the grand halls, now more confident and composed than ever before. His training had transformed him. His mana core had advanced, his control sharpened, and now, he was ready to set out for the Capital.

Beside him stood a man clad in dark armor, a massive sword strapped to his back. His presence alone radiated strength. This was Darius Raelith, the Raelith clan's top warrior and Elias' assigned bodyguard for the journey. Scarred from countless battles, Darius was a man of few words, but his reputation as an indomitable fighter spoke for itself.

"Are you ready?" Darius asked, his voice deep and unwavering.

Elias nodded, determination burning in his gaze. "Let's go."

With that, they set off toward the Capital, unaware of the dangers that awaited them on the road ahead.