The training grounds of ElderGlow Academy rang with the sharp crack of clashing weapons and the hum of circulating mana.
Morning sunlight filtered through the tall crystalline pillars that bordered the field, refracting into faint rainbow hues across the stone floor. Runes carved into the ground pulsed softly, reinforcing the arena so it could withstand the punishment of fourth-year students—students who were no longer novices, but not yet veterans either.
Damon Terrace wiped sweat from his brow and rolled his shoulders, feeling the familiar thrum of power moving beneath his skin. His essence felt denser than it had just months ago. Advancing to the fourth year had done more than grant them a title—it had pushed all of them into a new bracket of expectations.
Across from him stood Daveon, spear planted firmly into the ground, his breathing controlled but heavy. His short brown hair was damp with sweat, and faint scorch marks still lingered on the edge of his training armor.
