Days passed, and the academy buzzed with anticipation as classes were set to begin. Theos had four courses to choose from: Primal Energy Mastery, Combat Class, Affinity Mastery, and Exploration. Each promised to test his limits in unique ways.
To his disappointment, none of his classes aligned with those of Amgis or Clay. As the time came for them to part ways, the trio exchanged goodbyes at the crossroads of the sprawling academy grounds.
"Don't fall too far behind," Amgis teased, his signature smirk firmly in place. He rested a hand on the hilt of his greatsword, his confidence palpable. "Because while you're struggling to catch up, my strength will rise higher than the clouds."
Clay rolled his eyes, but there was a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Right, because modesty is clearly your strong suit."
Theos chuckled, shaking his head. "We'll see who's struggling when the trials roll around again. Don't get too comfortable at the top, Amgis."
With that, they turned in separate directions, their footsteps echoing against the academy's stone pathways. Though they were heading toward different challenges, an unspoken promise lingered between them: no matter the distance, their bond would remain unbroken.
Theos stepped into his first class, Affinity Mastery, his footsteps echoing softly in the spacious, dimly lit room. As he scanned the rows of seats, he chose one near the center, hoping for a clear view of the lesson. Settling into his chair, his gaze was immediately drawn to the instructor standing at the front.
She radiated a striking presence, her beauty almost otherworldly. Her sharp, elegant features were framed by flowing dark hair that shimmered faintly under the glow of the room's enchanted lanterns. There was a quiet confidence in her posture, and her piercing eyes seemed to hold the weight of countless mysteries. Her beauty seemed to only be second place compared to Roseville.
Theos found himself momentarily captivated, though he quickly straightened in his seat, reminding himself why he was there. This wasn't the time to be distracted—he was here to master his affinity and prove himself worthy of the academy's challenges.
"The class is about to begin," the instructor announced, her voice calm yet commanding, instantly capturing the students' attention. " In today's lesson, we will delve into attunement—the skill of borrowing and harnessing the abilities tied to various affinities."
Her gaze swept across the room, her tone growing sharper. "Mastering attunement is not just a matter of power; it requires focus, discipline, and an intimate connection with the essence of each affinity. Those who fail to grasp this will find themselves at a significant disadvantage in the trials ahead."
"But first," the instructor said, her eyes scanning the room with a measured intensity, "I need to know each of your affinities." She paused for a moment, allowing her words to settle. "Does anyone here possess the Affinity of Illusion—the ability to distort another's vision and manipulate their perception of surroundings?"
Her gaze lingered on the students, as though she could discern their abilities with a single glance. "If so, step forward. Mastery of illusion requires exceptional focus, and I expect nothing less than precision."
Theos hesitated for a brief moment before stepping forward, his movements steady but deliberate. He could feel the weight of the instructor's gaze on him as he positioned himself at the front of the class. Unlike many who shared the Affinity of Illusion, his abilities were far from ordinary. While others could manipulate sight and surroundings, Theos' power extended far deeper—to the very fabric of the system that governed the world itself. The blades he could conjure were apart of that unbelievable ability.
"Yes," he said confidently, meeting the instructor's piercing eyes. "I have the Affinity of Illusion." He paused, his tone measured but with a hint of guardedness. "Do you expect me to give a demonstration of my abilities?"
Theos' question was casual, but inwardly, he knew the truth: revealing the full extent of his powers was not an option. He had learned long ago that strength untempered by caution invited danger. Few could comprehend—let alone accept—the implications of his unique gift.
The instructor raised an eyebrow, her expression unreadable. For a moment, silence hung in the air, the class watching intently as if sensing that something about Theos set him apart.
"That depends," the instructor said finally, her voice as sharp as steel. "A demonstration can reveal much about control and understanding, but power wielded without discipline is a dangerous thing. Show me what you can do, Theos, but remember this: the greatest illusions are often those that leave the truth concealed."
Theos nodded, keeping his composure despite the tension crackling in the room. He extended a hand, summoning a faint shimmer of energy, careful to mask its true depth. His heart beat steadily as he conjured a simple mirage—a shifting, surreal landscape that flickered into existence before the class. The illusion was intricate enough to impress yet subdued enough to appear within the boundaries of normalcy.
The room fell silent, students exchanging glances of awe and curiosity. Theos maintained the mirage for only a moment before letting it dissolve like smoke on the wind.
"Impressive," the instructor said, though her tone betrayed neither approval nor skepticism. Her sharp gaze lingered on him a moment longer than it had on anyone else. "Your control is evident. Let us hope it's matched by your judgment."
Theos returned to his seat, his expression calm but his mind racing. He had revealed only a fraction of his power, and already, the instructor's words felt like a warning. He knew he would have to tread carefully—too much attention could be as dangerous as too little.
As the other students took turns sharing their affinities, the instructor, who had introduced herself as Eryne, offered personalized tips with a sharp but encouraging tone. Her insights were concise yet precise, revealing an intimate understanding of each affinity.
Finally, once everyone had spoken, Eryne stepped forward, clasping her hands together. "Now, let us move on to the art of attunement," she announced, her voice commanding immediate attention. "To understand its potential, allow me to give you an example."
Raising her hands with practiced ease, Eryne summoned an icy shard in her left palm, its surface shimmering like fractured glass under the glow of the lanterns. Simultaneously, a blazing fireball ignited in her right, its heat radiating visibly into the cool air. The stark contrast between the elements was mesmerizing—raw, opposing forces held in perfect balance.
"Attunement," she began, her tone calm yet brimming with authority, "is not just about harnessing multiple affinities. It is about harmony—understanding how to wield opposing forces without losing control. Those who master this skill gain access to abilities that can shape the battlefield and confound their enemies. But mastery demands precision, discipline, and respect for the forces you command."
She let the ice shard and fireball hover for a moment longer before extinguishing them both with a flick of her wrists, leaving only a faint wisp of steam in their place. "Now, let us see how well you can begin to attune yourselves."