The shadow lingered. Its form shifted unnaturally, twisting as if made of smoke, yet its eyes burned with a sharp intelligence.
Arin's pulse raced, but he didn't flinch. "Show yourself!" he demanded, the crackle of energy sparking at his fingertips.
The shadow laughed—a hollow, echoing sound. "So bold… for one reborn. Do you truly understand the powers you carry?"
Arin tightened his grip, forcing the memories of his past life into focus. Strategies, instincts, reflexes—all resurfacing in a blur. I may not know this world, but I know survival.
With a swift motion, he hurled a bolt of raw elemental energy. The shadow recoiled, splitting into three smaller forms that darted around the hall.
"Focus on the core!" Liora's voice rang in his memory. "Control the energy, don't just release it!"
Arin closed his eyes, feeling the pulse of magic within him, letting it flow naturally rather than forcing it. When he opened his eyes, the energy around his hands had stabilized, glowing with a controlled brilliance.
He struck again. This time, the shadow convulsed and evaporated into mist, leaving a faint, lingering darkness behind.
Liora appeared beside him, face a mixture of relief and concern. "Well done… for a first trial. But this was only a test. There are others—more dangerous, more cunning. And they will not be merciful."
Arin's chest heaved, adrenaline mixing with disbelief. "Why me? Why do they come after someone reborn?"
"Because knowledge of the past is dangerous," Liora said, her tone grave. "And someone wants to ensure you either fail… or serve their purpose."
Before Arin could question further, the hall doors swung open. A figure stepped in—a young man, cloaked and smiling, but there was something familiar in the cold calculation behind his eyes.
"Kael," Liora muttered under her breath.
Arin's heart sank. There was no way to mistake him—the same aura, the same intent he felt in the shadows. Kael had been waiting, watching, and now… testing.
Kael's gaze met Arin's. "So… the reborn awakens. I must admit, I expected less."
Arin's fists burned with energy, memories, and determination. "I won't let you intimidate me."
Kael laughed softly, circling him. "Oh, I don't intend to intimidate. I intend to see how far you've come… and whether you are ready to play the game of fate. Because, reborn one… in this world, everything is a trial. And the first true challenge is just beginning."
Arin clenched his fists, ready for whatever came next. The real battle—beyond shadows, tests, and spells—was only beginning.
I am fated again, he thought. And I will not fail.
Chapter 4: Trial of Discipline
Focus on training and mastering elemental control.
Arin learns patience, strategy, and self-restraint.
Kael's looming threat begins to shape Arin's mindset.