The training field behind the Phoenix Guild HQ roared with activity.
A dozen tactical drones flew above the newly recruited members, shooting low-level energy blasts that forced them to dodge, defend, or strike back. Diana Flamesoul stood with arms crossed, watching her students sweat. A fire of intensity burned in her crimson eyes—but also a clear hint of amusement.
"Don't hold back!" she yelled. "If you faint, I'll heal you later!"
Darius was panting heavily, drenched in sweat. "Is this... a training session or torture?!"
Rose, her aura glowing with water magic, gracefully spun around a drone, blasting it with a controlled jet of pressure. "Focus, Darius!"
Meanwhile, Inavy dashed forward, slicing two drones cleanly with his Chaos Blade, the energy dispersing into particles.
"I'm 80% sure she's trying to kill us," he muttered.
From the edge of the field, Diana clapped once. "You're all too slow. Again!"
Groans filled the air. Darius dropped to his knees. "I miss school…"
But they obeyed, repeating the drill for the sixth time.
After nearly three hours of relentless exercises, Diana finally waved her hand. "That's enough for today. Good job, Phoenix. You're not there yet... but you've got potential."
As they left the training field, Inavy wiped sweat from his brow, breathing heavily. The training was intense, and it reminded him of something deeper—something personal.
Later that evening, Inavy returned home. The familiar scent of home-cooked food drifted through the air, and he was immediately greeted by his younger brother, Ron Stormbreak, who jumped on him with the enthusiasm of a thunderbolt.
"Inavy! Did you beat up any villains today?!"
Behind him, Kyara, his younger sister of just eight, peeked from the hallway with wide eyes. "Did you fly again?"
Inavy chuckled, ruffling their hair. "Just training today. No flying. No villains. Just sweating."
Tiana, his adoptive mother, came from the kitchen with a warm smile. "Dinner's almost ready. You look like you need five plates."
Before Inavy could answer, the front door creaked open.
Ray Stormbreak stepped in, tall and calm, setting down his coat. His gaze met Inavy's.
"So… your first real training as a Phoenix?"
Inavy smiled faintly. "It was rough. Diana doesn't play around."
Ray leaned against the wall, arms crossed. "She never did."
There was a moment of silence before Ray spoke again—this time softer, but more serious.
"Inavy. Being a hero... it's not about winning fights. Or getting stronger faster than others. It's about staying stable. Holding on to who you are, even when the world tries to tear you apart."
Inavy looked at him, thoughtful.
Ray continued, "You will be tested. Not just in strength. But in pain. In loss. In loneliness. There will be moments where the world won't make sense... and all that will keep you going is the reason you chose to walk this path."
Inavy sat down at the dinner table, staring at his hands. "How do I keep that reason alive?"
Ray placed a hand on his son's shoulder. "By remembering what—and who—you're fighting for."
A warm silence followed. The clinking of dishes. Kyara's humming. Ron's questions about lightning powers. The quiet laughter of Tiana. The warmth of family.
And through it all, Inavy's heart settled.
He had chosen his path. Now he would walk it—no matter what it cost.