The first floor of the Magic School of Knowledge was a bustling hub of activity, filled with merchants setting up stalls, students rushing to complete errands, and Seekers enrolling for their classes. This level served as the foundation of the tower—a place where newcomers began their journey into magic. Even Elira's mother had started here once, long before she became the formidable figure she was today.
Kael stood in line with Elira, waiting to complete the enrollment process. Around them, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and nervous energy. Some students glanced at Elira, their eyes lingering on her silver hair and regal demeanor. She carried herself with quiet confidence, drawing attention effortlessly. Kael noticed the stares but said nothing, knowing they came not just from admiration but also curiosity about her noble status.
For his part, Kael didn't escape notice either. While some students looked at him with indifference, others glared with open hostility. Disgust, envy, and anger radiated from them in waves. He recognized their disdain—after all, he was a commoner stepping into a world dominated by privilege. Their desire to act against him was palpable, and Kael attempted to suppress it using his abilities. For most, it worked; their hostile urges faded into mild irritation or disinterest. But there were a few whose emotions remained untouched, shielded either by sheer strength of will or knowledge that allowed them to resist his influence.
Kael frowned slightly, unsettled by this limitation. Clearly, not everyone could be swayed so easily. These individuals would bear watching—perhaps even confronting—if they decided to make trouble later.
Once the enrollment process was complete, Kael and Elira went their separate ways. Elira headed off to explore areas familiar to her, while Kael made his way to the quarters assigned to him. His room was modest yet functional, with a sturdy desk, a narrow bed, and shelves built into the walls. It wasn't luxurious, but it felt like a sanctuary—a space where he could focus without distraction.
Along with his room assignment came his monthly allowance, delivered promptly by an attendant. The pouch of coins clinked softly as he placed it on the desk. For now, it represented security—a small but significant step toward independence.
With everything settled, Kael turned his attention inward. Seated cross-legged on the floor, he delved once again into the void, seeking to refine his mastery over fear. Hours passed as he experimented, pulling threads of dread and terror from the abyss and shaping them with increasing precision. Finally, he achieved a breakthrough. His control over fear grew sharper, more potent than ever before. He could now manipulate it not just as an overwhelming force but as a subtle weapon capable of sowing doubt, unease, or outright panic depending on his intent.
The realization filled him with a mix of satisfaction and unease. Such power came at a cost, carving away pieces of himself each time he tapped into the void. Yet the potential it offered was undeniable. If used carefully, it could give him an edge in this competitive and often dangerous environment.
As night fell, Kael leaned back against the wall, exhaustion weighing heavily on him. The day had been eventful, marked by challenges both external and internal. But one thing was certain: he had taken another step forward. In a place like the Magic School of Knowledge, progress was survival—and survival meant mastering every tool at his disposal.