**Chapter 6: Web of Power**
The Academy grounds were a sprawling labyrinth of ancient halls, shimmering towers, and verdant courtyards. Beneath its grandeur lay an intricate web of alliances and rivalries, where every student was either a pawn or a player. The recent trials had stirred the waters, and whispers of the arena's events echoed through the corridors.
Erythion's victory with Rynna had placed him on the radar of powerful figures. As he made his way through the central courtyard, he could feel the weight of their stares—assessing, calculating. Some were curious; others, like **Aric Vaelstrom**, were openly scrutinizing.
"Erythion Ashvale," Aric called out, his voice smooth but edged with authority. He descended the stone steps of the observation tower, flanked by two attendants in royal insignias. His **Solar Griffin** prowled beside him, its golden wings folded yet radiating power.
Erythion turned, meeting the prince's gaze without hesitation.
"You've caught some attention," Aric said, his green eyes narrowing. "But strength alone isn't enough to survive here. Tell me, what's your goal?"
Erythion remained silent for a moment, gauging the prince. Aric's question wasn't casual—it was a test.
"I'm here to grow stronger," Erythion replied simply.
Aric smirked, as though amused by the answer. "A common goal, but not a common talent. You have potential, Ashvale. Don't squander it."
Before Erythion could respond, another voice cut in, sharp and cold.
"He doesn't need your approval, Vaelstrom," said **Elira Sylanthir**. She emerged from the shadows of a nearby archway, her **Silver Wyvern** slinking behind her. Its metallic scales shimmered in the sunlight, and its piercing eyes mirrored her own.
"Still collecting strays to bolster your ranks?" she added, her tone dripping with disdain.
Aric's smirk didn't falter. "Not everyone has the luxury of playing lone wolf, Elira. Perhaps you should learn the value of alliances."
Elira's violet eyes flicked to Erythion, her expression unreadable. "The Academy isn't a playground for royal politics. If he has worth, he'll prove it without your meddling."
The tension between the two heirs was palpable. Erythion felt like a chess piece in a game he didn't fully understand, but he had no intention of being used.
"Is there a reason you're both so interested in me?" he asked, his tone firm.
Elira tilted her head slightly, as though appraising him anew. "Perhaps," she said cryptically. "But that depends on you."
***
Across the courtyard, **Liraen Faelthorne** observed the exchange with disinterest. She leaned against a marble pillar, her violet hair catching the breeze. Beside her stood her loyal **Void Panther**, its shadowy form blending into the surroundings.
"They're like vultures," Kaelen muttered from beside her. His wild golden eyes tracked Aric and Elira with barely concealed disdain. "Circling their prey before it's even cold."
Liraen didn't respond, her gaze fixed on Erythion. There was something different about him—something she couldn't quite place.
"He won't last long if he lets them pull him into their games," she said finally, her voice as cold as the winter air.
Kaelen snorted. "He handled that basilisk better than most. Maybe he's worth watching."
Liraen's eyes narrowed. "Everyone is worth watching. Until they're not."
***
The Academy bell tolled, signaling the start of the next session. Students began dispersing, their conversations fading into the distance.
Erythion made his way to the training halls, where the next phase of the trials would take place. The room was vast, its walls lined with ancient carvings depicting the First Awakening. At the center stood **Calenira**, her presence commanding as always.
"This trial," she announced, "will test your ability to lead. You will form teams, but only the strongest leaders will emerge victorious."
The room erupted into murmurs as students began forming groups. Erythion noticed Aric and Elira each assembling their own factions with ease, their authority drawing others like moths to a flame.
He hesitated, unsure of who to approach—until **Selina Eranthys** stepped forward.
"Erythion, join us," she said, her voice gentle yet firm. Her **Moonlit Stag** stood beside her, its serene presence calming the chaos. "We could use someone with your skill."
Erythion studied her for a moment. Selina's reputation preceded her—she was known for her diplomacy and unwavering composure. Her offer seemed genuine, but he couldn't shake the feeling that it came with unseen strings.
Before he could answer, Kaelen appeared, his Stormclaw Fenrir at his side. "Forget the princess," he growled. "You're better off with us."
Erythion glanced between them, aware of the growing attention. His choice would shape not just this trial but his standing within the Academy.
As he considered his options, his gaze flicked to Liraen, who watched silently from the shadows. She made no move to recruit him, but her presence was a reminder that the Academy's web of power extended far beyond the surface.
Erythion clenched his fists. Whatever path he chose, he would carve it himself.
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*End of Chapter 6.*