Arlen's training at the Ashen Spire Academy was as intense as the volcanic landscape itself. Each day, he endured blistering heat, sparred against fire-wielding duelists, and dodged magically-controlled infernos designed to sharpen his reflexes. Mastering fire magic and resistance wasn't just about raw power—it was about discipline, focus, and an unyielding will. Even students with years of experience struggled, and the instructors pushed everyone to their breaking point.
But as Arlen's skills grew, so did the risks beyond the training grounds. Word had begun to spread among certain circles—dangerous circles—that a Shadow Seeker had surfaced. Some of these rumors stemmed from Arlen's first academy, where a few envious students had witnessed traces of his shadow magic. News had traveled, and now, with his recent check-in at the guild—where his shadow skills were notably absent from his official record—those searching for forbidden power took notice.
It wasn't long before strangers began to watch him from shadowed corners of the town, their intentions clear from the hunger in their eyes. One night, Arlen narrowly avoided an ambush on his way back from the academy, using a blend of stealth, shadow, and fire magic to escape. He realized that his identity as a Shadow Seeker had become a prize for those who craved his rare abilities.
Determined to protect himself, Arlen approached the guild's leadership in confidence. He explained the risks, requesting that his shadow magic remain secret and that the guild help monitor for suspicious outsiders. The guildmaster, recognizing the threat to both Arlen and the town, agreed to keep his true powers confidential and assigned trusted adventurers to discreetly watch his back.
The academy, too, took his safety seriously. Instructors increased security, and Arlen's main mentor—an old swordmaster with burn-scarred hands—revealed his own knowledge of the Shadow Seekers' history. "This place has always drawn the ambitious and the ruthless," he confided. "But Shadow Seekers stood for balance—even in the heart of fire. You're not the first to be hunted, Arlen, but you are not alone."
With the guild and academy's support, Arlen faced his enemies with renewed determination. He continued his training, learned new sword arts, and delved deeper into the history of the Shadow Seekers at Ashen Spire. Each challenge, threat, and lesson further tempered his resolve, forging him into the kind of hero the world—and the order—so desperately needed.