Arrival At The Capital

The towering walls of the Capital loomed in the distance, stretching high into the sky like an impenetrable fortress. Built with a mix of mana-infused stone and enchanted metal, the walls shimmered faintly under the afternoon sun, a testament to the city's status as the center of power in the world. From a distance, Elias could already see the intricate spires of noble estates piercing the skyline, while large banners of the most powerful clans draped proudly from fortified towers.

Elias rode alongside Darius, who remained ever-vigilant even as the city came into full view. The journey had been long, and after their encounter with the assassins, they had taken a more cautious route. But now, the grand Capital lay before them, a city that housed the strongest warriors, the most influential clans, and the revered Top Council.

As they approached the massive gates, Elias noted the thick presence of city guards, all clad in dark blue armor etched with golden inscriptions. Unlike the guards of smaller cities, these men radiated discipline and strength, their mana signatures well-controlled and refined. They weren't mere enforcers of the law—they were warriors in their own right.

"Halt," one of the guards called out as they neared the checkpoint. "State your name and business."

Darius took the lead, dismounting from his horse with practiced ease. "Darius of the Raelith Clan, escorting young master Elias Raelith. He has come to attend the Academy."

The guard's eyes flickered with recognition at the mention of Raelith, but there was no sign of deference. Instead, he merely nodded and waved them through, uninterested. That lack of respect wasn't surprising. The Raelith clan wasn't well-regarded in the Capital—if anything, their presence here was that of an afterthought.

The moment they stepped inside, the overwhelming bustle of the Capital hit Elias like a wave. The streets were wider than any he had ever seen, paved with polished stone that gleamed under the sunlight. Enchanted lanterns lined the roads, glowing faintly even in the daytime. Merchants shouted their wares, offering everything from high-grade weapons to rare alchemical potions, while carriages drawn by mana-beasts weaved through the busy streets. The scent of roasted meat and spiced wine filled the air, mingling with the ever-present hum of mana flowing through the city's infrastructure.

Darius led them toward one of the main roads. "Stick close, young master. The Capital is as dangerous as it is grand. Many would take advantage of a fresh arrival."

Elias nodded but kept his gaze sharp, observing everything around him. He noted the noble insignias on various banners, recognizing some of the most powerful clans. The Varian clan's emblem—a black serpent entwined around a silver sword—stood out prominently atop a towering estate. A pang of irritation settled in Elias' chest, but he forced himself to focus.

The whispers of the Void stirred once more, faint but clear. "Be watchful. The city is a web, each thread tied to power. Your path here is no accident."

Elias gritted his teeth, the low hum of the whispers pulling at the edges of his focus. He had learned to ignore them at times, but this—this was different. It was as if the city itself was alive with energy, a thousand strings pulling and twisting through its ancient walls, and the Void's voice echoed louder in his mind.

The hum faded as they neared the central plaza, where a commotion caught his attention. A group of people had gathered in a circle, murmuring among themselves. Curiosity piqued, Elias nudged his horse forward and saw a duel taking place in an open space designated for combat training.

A duel was taking place, surrounded by an eager crowd. In the center stood a woman with a gleaming rapier, her movements precise and deadly. Opposing her was a man wreathed in flames, his magic crackling with raw power. As they clashed, their abilities lit up the courtyard, sending shockwaves through the air.

"That's Lady Seraphina of the Valebourne Clan," Darius said, crossing his arms. "And her opponent—Lord Caelum of the Ignis Clan. Both are from the most powerful families in the Capital."

Elias narrowed his eyes. The Valebourne Clan was one of the legendary clans that sat on the Top Council, known for their deadly swordsmanship and impeccable dueling skills. The Ignis Clan, on the other hand, was revered for their mastery over fire magic, producing some of the strongest mages in history.

The duel raged on, neither side willing to yield. Seraphina's rapier flashed as she parried a wave of fire, countering with a lunge that forced Caelum back. The crowd murmured in awe, watching as the battle unfolded with breathtaking speed and precision.

Elias felt a thrill rush through him. These were the warriors that ruled the battlefield, the heirs of the most influential Clans. If he wanted to make a name for himself, he would have to surpass them.

As the duel reached its climax, Darius nudged Elias. "Come on. We've seen enough. There's still more of the city to explore."

Before he could dwell on it further, a voice called out to him from behind.

"You there, are you new to the Capital?"

Elias turned to see a young man around his age approaching. He had sharp silver eyes and a confident smirk, dressed in fine noble attire that screamed wealth and status.

"I am," Elias responded, keeping his tone neutral.

The noble boy extended a hand. "Then allow me to welcome you properly. My name is Lucian Varian."

Elias' eyes darkened. Of all the people to meet on his first day in the Capital… it had to be a Varian.