The [Eyes of the God of Creation] were unlike anything Ash had ever encountered before. When they manifested, they felt both overwhelming and awe-inspiring, as though the universe itself had bestowed upon him a gift of untold power.
These eyes granted Ash a profound ability—to see through everything. This wasn't merely physical sight; it was a deeper understanding, a vision that pierced the surface of the world and revealed the very essence of all things. With these eyes, Ash could perceive the mystery of life, matter, and energy. Whether it was a person's intentions, the weak points in an enemy's armor, or the inner structure of objects, nothing could remain hidden from him.
Moreover, the Eyes of the God of Creation bestowed upon him the ability to enhance anything he created. Whether it was a weapon forged from steel, a piece of art, or even something as simple as a meal, everything Ash crafted would be of the highest quality. The power flowing through the eyes allowed him to perceive imperfections that others couldn't see and to correct them effortlessly, ensuring that his creations were always perfect.
But perhaps the most extraordinary aspect of these eyes was their capacity to learn. When activated, the eyes enabled Ash to observe any skill—swordsmanship, magic, crafting, even the most complex techniques—and immediately comprehend it. This wasn't just passive learning; Ash could absorb every nuance, every detail of a skill just by watching it in action. He could replicate even the most difficult techniques as though he had practiced them for years. The eyes allowed him to learn in moments what others took lifetimes to master.
These eyes weren't merely tools—they were an extension of creation itself. A gift from the divine, they connected Ash to the very essence of the world, allowing him to shape his future in ways that no mortal could imagine. With this power, the barriers that once stood before him began to crumble, and the path to mastering his swordsmanship, and everything else, stretched out before him in a new and limitless way.
It became clear to Ash as to why he had broken through the barrier that had held him back for so long—unlocking the [Eyes of the God of Creation] had been the key. The moment those divine eyes awakened, everything changed. With their power, he had effortlessly surpassed the wall that had kept him trapped at [Beginner Swordsmanship Level 9], allowing him to ascend to [Intermediate Swordsmanship Level 1] with a newfound fluidity in his movements and precision in his strikes.
The world around him looked different now. Every swing of his sword, every stance, every block felt perfect, as though he had tapped into the very core of swordsmanship itself. When sparring with Elena, Ash could see the tiniest flaws in his form and immediately correct them. He could learn from the smallest of observations, absorbing techniques not just from his own practice, but by watching the way Elena moved, how Androgas handled his tools, and even how the villagers worked their land. His growth had become exponential.
However, the power came at a steep cost. Using the [Eyes of the God of Creation] was utterly exhausting. After just a few minutes of activation, Ash would find himself drenched in sweat, his breath coming in ragged gasps. The strain on his mind was even worse than the physical toll. Information flooded his senses at an overwhelming rate, threatening to drown him in a sea of minute details and endless possibilities.
The first time he'd pushed himself too far, Ash had collapsed mid-spar, his nose bleeding and head pounding as though it might split open. It had taken days for the migraine to subside fully. Elena and Sword had been beside themselves with worry, and Ash had learned the hard way that his newfound power required careful management.
"You're brooding again," Sword's voice chimed from the blade at his side, pulling Ash from his reverie. "I can feel it, you know. What's on your mind, Creator?"
Ash sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Just thinking about the eyes, and how much there is still to learn."
Elena, who had been gazing out the carriage window, turned to face him. "You've made incredible progress, Ash. Don't be too hard on yourself."
"Indeed," Empress added, her voice emanating from Elena's blade. "Mastery of such a potent ability takes time. Rome wasn't built in a day, as they say."
Ash nodded, grateful for their support. "You're right, of course. It's just... sometimes it feels like I'm trying to empty the ocean with a teaspoon. There's so much to see, to understand. And the exhaustion..." He trailed off, remembering the bone-deep weariness that followed each use of the eyes.
Since that fateful day in the forest, Ash sought out more than just swordsmanship. He approached Elena with a new request: to learn smithing from the village blacksmith, Master Androgas. Elena seemed surprised at first—Ash, the driven swordsman, now eager to learn the crafts of forging metal. But she understood him well enough to know that his desires for knowledge were never random.
Ash spent hours at Androgas' forge, watching the old blacksmith work. With the[Eyes of the God of Creation] guiding him, he absorbed every detail of the process—the way the hammer struck the glowing metal, the rhythm of the blows, the subtle changes in heat that dictated the shape and quality of the blade being forged. Androgas was a master of his craft, and through observation, Ash was beginning to follow in his footsteps. Every day in the forge felt like a new layer of understanding, not just of smithing, but of the connection between creation and mastery.
Through this, Ash realized that creation itself was a form of combat. Whether it was crafting a weapon or mastering a technique, everything was connected. And with his eyes, he was no longer just a swordsman. He was becoming a creator in his own right, shaping both the tools and the skills that would define his future.
The forge's relentless heat marked the passage of time as Ash poured his heart and soul into his craft. Days blurred into weeks, weeks into months, until half a year had slipped by like sand through an hourglass. With each hammer strike, each carefully honed edge, Ash's skill grew exponentially.
Finally, after five grueling months, a monumental shift occurred. The flames of the forge seemed to dance in celebration as Ash's [Advanced Blacksmithing Level 9] transcended its limits, evolving into the coveted [Master Blacksmithing Level 1]. This wasn't just a new title; it was the results of Ash's [Eyes of the God of Creation]'s growth.
But Ash was not satisfied by the results yet. With renewed motivation, he threw himself back into his work. The forge became his second home; and the rhythmic clanging of metal on metal his constant companion. For three more months, he pushed himself to the brink of exhaustion, honing his craft with an almost obsessive fervor.
His efforts were quickly rewarded. In what seemed like the blink of an eye to outside observers, but felt like an eternity of sweat and toil to Ash, he ascended through the ranks of mastery. From [Master Blacksmithing Level 1] to [Master Blacksmithing Level 9].
After reaching [Master Blacksmithing Level 9], Ash discovered he could now attempt the creation of [Soul Weapons] - mythical weapons with spirits bound within their very essence. These weren't mere tools, but living artifacts capable of growth and power beyond ordinary magical weaponry.
Ash approached Elena with a daring proposal. He wished to utilize the rare materials they had acquired from their battles against the ferocious inferno wolves and the mighty fire emperor bears, and Elena gave her enthusiastic consent.
Ash's fingers danced across forge and anvil, coaxing form from chaos and beauty from raw potential. From the essence of the inferno wolves arose the [Infernal Sword], a blade that seemed to flicker with barely contained flames. Its companion piece, born from the strength of the fire emperor bears, was the majestic [Empress Blade], a weapon of regal power and grace.
Ash presented the [Empress Blade] to Elena as a gift. Its elegant lines and formidable presence were a perfect match for her strength and skill. For himself, Ash claimed the [Infernal Sword], feeling a kinship with its wild, untamed nature.
The tranquil night air shattered with an otherworldly glow emanating from Ash and Elena's newly forged weapons. In a moment that defied comprehension, two small figures materialized beside the blades, their sudden existence challenging everything Ash thought he knew about his craft.
From the [Infernal Sword] emerged Sword, a girl who looked no older than six. Her hair danced like living flames, eyes burning with the intensity of a wild inferno. She embodied the untamed spirit of the weapon, her very presence seeming to raise the temperature in the room.
Simultaneously, the [Empress Blade] pulsed with inner light, giving birth to Empress. Another six-year-old in appearance, she carried herself with surprising regality. Her gaze held both warmth and authority, a perfect reflection of the noble fire emperor bears whose essence flowed through the blade.
The two young manifestations stood in awe of their newfound world, unaware of the shock their existence would soon cause. Sword's fingers trailed curiously over objects in Ash's room, leaving faint scorch marks in her wake. Empress, by contrast, observed her surroundings with a calm dignity that belied her childlike form.
When dawn's first light crept through Ash's window, rousing him from slumber. He yawned, stretching his arms wide, only for his hand to brush against something unexpected. Something warm. Something that giggled.
His eyes snapped open, focus sharpening on a small figure perched at the foot of his bed. A girl with flickering flame-like hair grinned at him, her eyes dancing with mischief.
"Good morning, Creator!" she chirped. "I'm Sword!"
Ash bolted upright, mouth agape. "Wha— How— Who?"
His gaze darted to where the [Infernal Sword] should have been resting. The weapon was there, but now it pulsed with an inner light he'd never seen before.
Sword bounced on the bed, sending sparks flying from her hair. "You made me! Well, you made the sword, but I'm the sword, and now I'm me!"
Ash's mind reeled, trying to process this impossibility. "But... you're a child?"
"I'm six!" Sword declared proudly, holding up six fingers. "Or six seconds. Or six millennia. Time is weird for souls."
Meanwhile, across town, Elena stirred in her own bed, awareness creeping in slowly. Something felt... off. The weight distribution on her mattress was wrong. She cracked one eye open, then both flew wide at the sight before her.
A small girl sat primly on the edge of the bed, hands folded neatly in her lap. Unlike Elena's usual sparring partners, this child exuded an aura of serene dignity.
"Good morrow, my lady," the girl said, her voice surprisingly mature. "I am Empress, the spirit of your blade. I apologize for any alarm, but I believed it prudent to introduce myself properly."
Elena's hand instinctively reached for a weapon, finding only empty air. The [Empress Blade] still rested on its stand, but it thrummed with newfound energy.
"Spirit of my..." Elena's combat-honed instincts warred with confusion. "How is this possible?"
Empress smiled gently. "The realm of souls holds many mysteries, my lady. Shall we discuss them over breakfast? I find I'm quite curious about the concept of eating."
*****
The tavern's private room buzzed with an air of bewilderment and excitement. Ash and Elena sat across from each other, their eyes constantly darting between their companions and the shimmering weapons laid on the table.
Sword, unable to contain her energy, bounced on her chair. "And then I just... poof! Here I am!" She giggled, sparks literally flying from her hair. "Isn't it amazing, Creator?"
Ash ran a hand through his disheveled hair. "It's... certainly something. I've heard legends of soul weapons, but this..." He gestured vaguely at Sword.
"We prefer the term 'soul warriors,' if you please," Empress interjected, sitting ramrod straight beside Elena. "It's a more accurate description of our nature."
Elena leaned forward, elbows on the table. "So you're saying you're not just spirits bound to the weapons, but the actual souls of the weapons themselves?"
Empress nodded. "Precisely, my lady. Your craft," she inclined her head towards Ash, "combined with the essence of the creatures you vanquished, gave birth to us."
"But why children?" Ash asked, his brow furrowed.
Sword shrugged, nearly falling off her chair in the process. "Why not? We're new! Besides, growing is fun!"
"Indeed," Empress agreed. "Our forms reflect our nascent state. As we gain experience and power, we may mature."
Elena's hand hovered over the [Empress Blade]. "And you can... return to the weapons?"
"Oh yes!" Sword exclaimed. She grabbed the [Infernal Sword], which flared brightly. In a blink, the girl vanished, the sword pulsing with inner fire. Moments later, she reappeared, grinning. "See? Easy!"
Ash whistled low. "That's... incredible. But what does this mean for us, practically speaking?"
Empress folded her hands primly. "We are extensions of your will, bound by the craft that created us. We can lend you our power, offer counsel, and fight alongside you. In time, as our bonds strengthen, who knows what might happen?"
Elena and Ash exchanged glances, a mix of apprehension and exhilaration in their eyes.
"Well," Elena said slowly, a smile tugging at her lips, "I guess our adventures just got a lot more interesting."
Sword cheered, a small flame erupting from her excitement. Ash quickly patted it out, realizing that life with these ensouled weapons would be anything but dull.
*****
The tranquil forest erupted into chaos as the group of goblins charged. Ash gripped the [Infernal Sword] tightly, feeling it pulse with eager energy. Sword's childlike voice rang out from the blade, "Let's show them what we can do!"
Instantly, the sword's edge ignited, wreathed in dancing flames. Ash swung in a wide arc, and a wave of fire erupted from the blade. The inferno whooshed through the air, singeing grass and sending goblins tumbling backward with startled yelps and smoking clothes.
"Woohoo!" Sword cheered, her excitement palpable through the weapon. "Did you see that, Creator? We're unstoppable!"
Ash was surprised at how the sword seemed to guide his movements, each strike more precise and powerful than he thought possible. The goblin lunging at him, Ash parried him instinctively. The flaming blade left a scorching gash across the creature's chest, sending it reeling back with a pained howl.
Meanwhile, Elena stood ready, the [Empress Blade] gleaming in her hand. Empress, however, had other ideas. "Allow me to demonstrate, my lady," she said, stepping forward.
The child-like figure raised her hands, face set in concentration. Suddenly, balls of fire materialized around her, orbiting like miniature suns. With a gesture, Empress sent them hurtling towards the advancing goblins. The fireballs exploded on impact, scattering their targets and setting patches of underbrush ablaze.
"Remarkable," Elena breathed, watching as Empress effortlessly manipulated the flames.
Empress nodded, a small smile on her face. "The essence of the fire emperor bears flows through me. I can channel it at will."
Demonstrating her skill, Empress touched the [Empress Blade]. The weapon immediately blazed to life, flames dancing along its length. "Now, my lady," Empress said, "shall we combine our strengths?"
Elena grinned, swinging the ignited blade. Each strike left trails of fire in its wake, the heat intense enough to make the goblins shriek and retreat before the blade even made contact.
Ash and Sword were not to be outdone. "Hey Creator, watch this!" Sword's voice echoed from the blade. Suddenly, the flames engulfing the [Infernal Sword] intensified, spiraling outward to form a protective vortex around Ash.
Goblins that ventured too close were immediately repelled, their crude weapons scorched and useless. Ash advanced through their ranks, the fiery barrier clearing a path.
The last of the goblins fled into the underbrush. Ash and Elena regrouped, their weapons still flickering with flames. They exchanged exhilarated looks, realizing that these soul weapons were far more powerful than they had imagined. The forest around them bore scorch marks and smoldering patches.
"Well," Ash said, catching his breath, "I'd say that was quite the test run."
Elena nodded, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Indeed. And something tells me we've only scratched the surface of what these weapons can do."
"I believe we've gathered sufficient data for today," Empress declared, raising her hand. A shimmering barrier materialized between the group and the approaching beast. The rabbit collided with the invisible wall, stumbling back in confusion.
Sword, still buzzing with excitement, pouted. "Aww, but we were just getting started!"
Ash lowered the [Infernal Sword], realization dawning. "Empress is right. We came here to test abilities, not to fight everything in the forest."
Elena nodded in agreement, sheathing the [Empress Blade] back to its scabbard. "Let's head back. We have a lot to discuss about what we've learned."
They made their way out of the Crystal Lake Forest. The adrenaline of combat faded, and was replaced by a thoughtful silence. The group emerged from the treeline just as the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the landscape.
"Why don't we rest by the lake?" Elena suggested, gesturing to the shimmering waters of Crystal Lake. "It's peaceful there, and we could all use a moment to process what happened today."
Ash readily agreed, and soon they found themselves settled on the shore, the gentle lapping of waves providing a soothing backdrop. Sword and Empress, back in their child-like forms, played nearby.
Aah and Elena sat there, watching the sun's reflection dance on the water's surface, and Elena turned to Ash, her expression becoming more serious. "Ash, there's something I've been meaning to tell you..." She turned to face him, her expression a mix of sadness and hesitation. "I've decided to enroll in the [Royal Knight School] next year."
Ash's eyes widened. "That's incredible, Elena! You'll be amazing there."
Elena smiled, then took a deep breath. "I was hoping... well, I was wondering if you'd consider coming with me? We've always trained together, and with these new soul weapons, imagine what we could accomplish as a team."
For a moment, Ash was silent, his gaze drifting to where Sword was attempting to skip stones across the lake's surface (and accidentally setting them on fire in the process).
"Elena, I..." he began, his voice soft. "I'm honored you'd want me there, truly. But I've been doing some thinking of my own." He met her eyes, determination shining in his own. "I want to join the [Royal Magician School]."
Elena's surprise was evident. "The Magician School? But you're a swordsman, Ash. A brilliant one at that."
Ash nodded. "I am. But today, seeing what Sword and Empress can do, feeling that magic flow through the blade... it awakened something in me." He held up his hand, a small flame dancing across his palm. "I want to understand this power, to see how far I can push the boundaries of swordsmanship, crafting and magic together."
Elena was quiet for a moment, processing. Then, a slow smile spread across her face. "You know what? You haven't changed at all since I've met you."
"You're not disappointed?" Ash asked, relief evident in his voice.
Elena shook her head. "How could I be? We're both following our passions." She punched his arm lightly. "Besides, think how unstoppable we'll be when we team up – the knight and the magic swordsman."
Ash grinned. "Forging new paths, quite literally in my case."
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the lake, the two friends sat in companionable silence once more. Their paths might be diverging, but their bond remained as strong as ever. And with Sword and Empress by their sides, the future held endless possibilities.
*****
A year passed in the blink of an eye, filled with rigorous training, late-night study sessions, and the occasional adventure. Ash and Elena had grown not just in skill, but in their bond with Sword and Empress. The once-excitable child-like manifestations now appeared as young teenagers, mirroring their wielders' growth.
Dawn broke over their hometown, painting the sky in hues of lavender and gold, Ash and Elena stood at the crossroads. Their bags were packed, their weapons secured, and their hearts thrummed with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.
"Can you believe it's finally here?" Elena asked, adjusting the strap of her pack. The [Empress Blade] hung at her hip, its presence a comforting weight.
Ash nodded, his eyes fixed on the horizon where the spires of Rosaria, capital of the Blue Pegasus Empire, were just barely visible. "It feels surreal," he admitted, unconsciously touching the [Infernal Sword] strapped to his back.
"Oh, come on!" Sword's voice echoed from the blade, her teenage exuberance evident. "This is going to be amazing! Think of all the new things we'll learn, the people we'll meet!"
Empress manifested briefly beside Elena, her form now that of a graceful young woman. "Indeed, though let us not forget the responsibilities that come with our advancement. The Royal Schools are not to be taken lightly."
The distant sound of hoofbeats reached their ears. Around the bend came a magnificent carriage pulled by two pegasi, their wings folded neatly at their sides. The royal crest of the Blue Pegasus Empire gleamed on the carriage door.
"Your ride to Rosaria, young masters," the driver announced with a bow.
Ash and Elena exchanged glances, years of friendship and shared experiences passing between them in a single look.
"Well," Ash said with a grin, "shall we?"
Elena nodded, a determined smile on her face. "Let's show Rosaria what we're made of."
They climbed into the carriage, their families and friends gathered to wave goodbye, shouting well-wishes and last-minute advice. The pegasus flew in the air and left for Rosaria.
Rosaria is a city of both opulence and vibrancy, home to a diverse and lively population. The city's population is quite dense, with people from all walks of life converging in its bustling streets. The air is filled with the rich blend of languages and accents, as traders, scholars, and adventurers from across the empire and beyond come to Rosaria seeking fortune, knowledge, or adventure.
The citizens of Rosaria are known for their refined manners and distinctive fashion, often adorned in vibrant colors and elegant garments that reflect the city's wealth. Street vendors offer an array of exotic foods and handcrafted goods, while artists and performers entertain passersby. The city's districts each have their own character—some are known for their upscale boutiques and noble residences, while others are vibrant with markets and cultural festivals.
The Royal Magician School is a prestigious institution located near the heart of Rosaria. Its campus is a sprawling complex of enchanted towers, libraries filled with ancient tomes, and training halls for spellcasting. The architecture is both imposing and beautiful, with ornate carvings that glow with magical runes. The school is known for producing some of the most powerful and innovative mages in the empire. Students receive rigorous training in both theoretical and practical magic, with access to rare and powerful artifacts. The school's grand library, often considered a beacon of magical knowledge, is open to scholars from around the world.
The Royal Knight School is situated on the outskirts of Rosaria, within a fortified enclave. The school's architecture combines traditional fortification with elegance, featuring high stone walls, training grounds, and stately halls. The curriculum focuses on martial prowess, chivalry, and strategy. Students train in combat techniques, horse riding, and tactics under the watchful eye of experienced instructors. The school's prestigious reputation attracts aspiring knights from across the empire, and its graduates often go on to serve as elite guards or commanders.
The grandeur of the Royal Magician School loomed before Ash and Sword as they approached its imposing gates. The ancient stone walls, etched with glowing runes and covered in a veil of ivy, seemed to whisper secrets of centuries past. The massive doors, adorned with intricate carvings of magical creatures and symbols, glowed softly, welcoming them into a world of arcane wonder.
"This place is even more impressive up close," Sword remarked, her eyes wide with a mix of awe and apprehension. "Are you ready for this?"
Ash nodded. "More than ever. Let's show them what we've got."
Entering the grand foyer, the hustle and bustle of students and faculty surrounded them. The entrance hall was a masterpiece of magical architecture, with high vaulted ceilings supported by ornate pillars. Glittering chandeliers bathed the room in a warm, golden light that seemed to dance off the polished marble floors. Shelves lined with ancient tomes and scrolls created a scholarly ambiance, their spines decorated with enchanted runes that shifted colors as they moved.
An elderly mage, his robes shimmering with subtle enchantments, stood behind a desk near the entrance, welcoming the new candidates with a nod. "Welcome to the Royal Magician School," he intoned, his voice carrying an air of authority. "Please proceed to the examination chamber."
Ash and Sword exchanged a glance and followed the mage's directions. They made their way through winding corridors, their footsteps echoing softly in the quiet halls. The excitement and tension were palpable, and the air seemed charged with anticipation.
The examination chamber was a vast, circular room with high, arched windows letting in beams of sunlight that illuminated the floor's strange sigils. A long wooden table stood at the center, covered with scrolls and ancient artifacts. Behind it sat a stern-faced mage with a long, silver beard and robes that seemed to ripple with a life of their own. His eyes, sharp and calculating, followed every movement of the candidates.
"Candidates, please take your seats," the mage announced, his voice carrying a weight of authority. "You will begin with the written examination."
Ash and Sword took their places at separate desks. The written exam was a test of magical theory and history, featuring a series of challenging questions. Ash's pen moved quickly across the parchment, his mind focused on recalling the complex details of arcane lore and magical principles. Sword, seated nearby, glanced over the questions with a thoughtful frown before diving into her own answers.
"What do you think of question seven?" Sword whispered, leaning slightly towards Ash.
Ash glanced at Sword's paper and offered a brief, quiet analysis. "It's asking about the historical significance of the Arcane Treaty. The key points are its impact on inter-realm relations and its influence on magical education."
Sword nodded appreciatively and returned to his work. The room was filled with the scratch of pens and the occasional rustle of parchment. The tension was palpable, but both Ash and Sword remained focused on their tasks.
With the written exams completed, the candidates were directed to a different chamber for the practical test. The room was larger and more open, with enchanted barriers set up at various points. The mage at the table, now joined by a few other faculty members, observed the proceedings with keen interest.
"Candidates, it is time for the practical demonstration," the mage declared. "Show us your mastery of magic through the spells you have learned."
Ash stepped forward first, his heart pounding with excitement and nerves. He activated his [Eyes of the God of Creation], allowing him to perceive the flow of magical energy in unprecedented detail. The runes and sigils around him seemed to come alive, their patterns and functions laid bare before him.
He focused on a simple spell—a protective barrier. As he traced the rune in the air with precise, deliberate movements, the room filled with a soft hum of magical energy. The barrier began to form, a shimmering dome of light that encapsulated Ash. The faculty members watched in stunned silence as the barrier held steady, its surface rippling with intricate patterns.
"Well done," the silver-bearded mage remarked, his eyes widening in surprise. "Impressive control and execution."
Ash's face lit up with a mix of relief and pride as the barrier dissipated into a cascade of sparkling motes. He stepped back, feeling a sense of accomplishment.
Sword was next, and she approached the test area with a calm, collected demeanor. She focused on a more complex spell—a binding incantation that required precise manipulation of magical energy. She began by channeling his own magical aura, creating a series of glowing runes in the air. While incanting, the runes intertwined and formed a visible web of magical force.
The web glowed brightly before solidifying into a series of tangible bonds, which hovered in mid-air. The binding spell held firm, demonstrating Sword's skill in both spellcasting and magical control.
"Excellent," another faculty member said, nodding in approval. "Your spell was executed with great precision."
Sword gave a small, satisfied nod as the web of magical bonds gently dissolved. She joined Ash, both of them exchanging triumphant smiles.
After the practical tests concluded, Ash and Sword found themselves waiting in a quiet lounge area. The tension of the exams had subsided, replaced by a sense of anticipation. They discussed their performances and the impressions they had made.
"How do you think we did?" Sword asked, stretching out his arms with a sigh of relief.
"I think we both did great," Ash replied. "The [Eyes of the God of Creation] really made a difference for me. It felt like I could see every detail of the magic I was working with."
Sword nodded. "I was pretty nervous, but it felt good to finally put everything we've learned into practice. The binding spell was tricky, but I think I managed it well. I think I'll call it the [Sword's Spider Trap]!"
Just then, the mage with the silver beard entered the lounge, his expression thoughtful. "Candidates Ash and Sword," he began, "your performances today were exceptional. Your practical skills and theoretical knowledge have impressed the faculty."
Ash and Sword exchanged excited glances, their faces brightening.
"Congratulations," the mage continued, his voice carrying a note of genuine approval. "You have both been accepted into the Royal Magician School. We look forward to seeing what you will accomplish here."
With a sense of pride and anticipation, Ash and Sword thanked the mage and left the lounge, ready to embark on their new journey in the world of magic.