Kael had come to a realization over the past few days—he needed more than just his abilities from the void. If he wanted to survive in a place like the Magic School of Knowledge, where danger lurked around every corner, he would have to strengthen his physical body as well. With that thought in mind, he began training rigorously in the confines of his room. Push-ups, sit-ups, stretches, and improvised exercises became part of his daily routine. He pushed himself to endure more, determined to improve his stamina, strength, and resilience. The effort left him sore but satisfied, knowing that each drop of sweat brought him closer to being prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead.
Meanwhile, Elira was far from idle. Every night, she delved into the collective consciousness, seeking new insights and knowledge to expand her magical repertoire. Her focus was relentless, driven by an insatiable hunger for power. She wasn't content with simply relying on her noble status or family name—she needed to stand on her own, to prove herself capable of greatness. Each session left her drained but exhilarated, the thrill of discovery fueling her determination. By day, she maintained her composure, navigating the social intricacies of the school while keeping her progress hidden, saving it as a trump card for when the time was right.
Their paths rarely crossed these days. Both were consumed by their respective pursuits, too busy honing their skills to seek out conversation or companionship. There was no pressing reason for them to meet—not yet, at least. When they did pass each other in the halls, their interactions were brief and polite, little more than nods or fleeting remarks about the weather or school life. Yet despite the distance, there was an unspoken understanding between them—a shared awareness of the weight they carried and the battles they fought, albeit separately.
Kael continued to experiment with his connection to the void, refining his abilities and exploring ways to apply them in everyday situations. His control over fear grew sharper, allowing him to manipulate emotions with precision that bordered on artistry. But it was his work with desire that truly flourished. After nights of intense focus, he achieved outstanding success, unlocking deeper layers of mastery over this aspect of his power. He could now amplify desires subtly, nudging people toward actions they might never have considered before—or suppress them entirely, creating moments of hesitation or doubt. It was a potent tool, one he knew could shape outcomes in his favor if used wisely.
Word of Kael's presence spread quickly through the first floor. Whispers about "that scary freshman" echoed in the corridors, growing louder with each passing day. Seniors and freshmen alike spoke of him in hushed tones, recounting tales of how he made students freeze in fear or vanish into shadows without explanation. Merchants and civilians who frequented the area added to the rumors, describing encounters with a mysterious figure whose gaze seemed to pierce through their very souls. Some claimed his mere presence unnerved them, while others swore they felt an inexplicable pull toward him, as though drawn by invisible threads.
Kael paid little attention to the gossip, though he couldn't deny its usefulness. Fear kept people at bay, giving him space to focus on what mattered most: survival and growth. Still, he remained cautious, knowing that popularity—especially of the fearful kind—could attract unwanted scrutiny. For now, he embraced the solitude it afforded him, using the time to delve deeper into the void and refine his craft.
Elira, too, noticed the growing chatter about Kael. While she didn't dwell on it, she found herself curious about the enigmatic freshman who seemed to command both fear and fascination. She wondered how far his abilities extended—and whether they might someday intersect with her own ambitions.