Lyren led Kael through the floating streets of Nova Prime, past markets that sold glowing crystals and hovering beasts. "You must learn control," Lyren said, unfurling a cloak that shimmered like the night sky. "Magic is not just power—it is discipline."
Kael tried to mimic the gestures Lyren made. The starlight shard wavered, threatening to vanish. Sweat beaded on his brow, but he persisted. By sunset, he had learned to keep the shard suspended above his hand. "Good," Lyren murmured. "Tomorrow, you start your first trial."
At dawn, Kael stood before a circle etched in silver on the ground. Lyren whispered, "You must bend the light of Nova Prime's suns into a blade. Only a focused heart can succeed."
Kael concentrated, drawing in the warmth of the twin suns. Slowly, a sword of pure light formed in his hands, humming with energy. He swung it experimentally, and the blade left streaks of luminescent fire in the air. A grin spread across his face. He was a wizard now—but just beginning.