For the last test, Master Leora and Master Harman stood at the center of the stage, their presence more imposing than ever. Between them, on a finely carved pedestal, rested the Realm Testing Orb, its translucent surface gleaming under the hall's luminance.
As each student approached, the hall held its collective breath. A young man with jet-black hair stepped forward first. As he channeled his Essence into the orb, it glowed with a vibrant shade of blue - Water.
Next, a petite girl with freckles showcased her realm. The orb pulsed with a fiery red - Fire. One after another, realms revealed themselves: swirling greens and browns of Earth, shimmering silvers of Metal, and the swirling grays of Air.
Gasps of astonishment filled the hall when a tall, lean boy revealed not one but two realms, a dance of Light and Fire within the orb.
Another, a girl with raven-black hair, unveiled the rare Blood realm, her orb glowing a profound, mesmerizing crimson.
Then came Aelar's turn. The moment's weight pressed down on him, each second feeling like an eternity. But the orb remained unaffected as he channeled, seeking a connection with any realm. One minute. Two minutes. The orb's stubborn lack of reaction was a silent declaration: Aelar had no power realm.
Hushed whispers swept across the room, a mix of sympathy and disbelief.
Master Harman finally broke the silence, "It's rare, but not unheard of. Aelar, you have no realm. But the academy still welcomes you. With dedication, you can still rise to the rank of Adept."
The sentiment in the room was palpable. These were the elites, the ones who had fought tooth and nail to reach where they did, and to see one amongst them without a realm was a reminder of the unpredictability of magic.
With the conclusion of the tests, Master Leora stepped forward, her voice clear and resonant. "Welcome, novices, to the Agni Academy." The weight of the achievement settled on the nineteen, a mix of pride, relief, and, for some, uncertainty.
Master Harman gestured to the adepts, "They will guide you to your quarters as you embark on this journey."
And with that, the academy's newest members followed the adepts, taking their first steps into a world of wonder, challenges, and discovery.
As the new novices made their way through the winding corridors of the academy, a soft murmur of conversation began to fill the air.
The grandeur of the academy, with its high vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and the faint glow of enchanted lanterns, was a sight to behold.
Aelar found himself walking alongside the warrior with the broadsword, whose name he learned was Caden. "That was some display back there," Aelar commented, trying to sound casual. "Weaving fire on a blade isn't something that I have ever seen or heard of."
Caden chuckled, "Thanks. I've been training with my sword since I was a kid. The essence weaving... that's new. My mentor believes in a fusion of martial and magical skills."
Aelar nodded, genuinely impressed. "It's a rare combination. Must be quite dangerous for your enemies in battle."
The conversation flowed naturally, discussing their hometowns, reasons for joining the academy, and aspirations. Yet, beneath Aelar's calm demeanor, a dark storm brewed - not having a realm gnawed at him, casting a shadow on his heart.
Caden, sensing the shift in Aelar's mood, tried to offer some comfort. "Hey, don't let the realm thing get to you. The academy saw something in you. That's why you're here."
Aelar forced a smile, "Thanks, Caden. I just... It's a lot to take in."
As they approached the dormitory section, an adept awaited them, his stern gaze scanning the group. "Listen up," he began, his voice echoing authority. "Tomorrow, 7 am sharp, you'll assemble in the hall where your tests took place. After that, you will be free for the next two months. Visit home, explore, and rest, but once formal classes start, you won't leave the academy grounds for a year."
The weight of the commitment began to settle in. The academy wasn't just a place of learning; it was a commitment, a new way of life.
Each novice was given a private room with bed, a study desk, and shelves filled with books and scrolls. The rooms were spacious and adequate for a new student's needs.
Aelar stepped into his room, appreciating the silence. The day had been packed with emotions, and he needed time to process everything.