The entrance to the Aether Tower was modest. A simple wooden door merges with the structure. Inside, the Grand Atrium opened up with soaring wooden ceilings. Natural stone floors added a rustic touch, while minimal decorations on the walls kept the focus on the grandeur of the space.
On the upper floor, The Celestial Library was breathtaking. The wooden shelves brimmed with worn, leather-bound tomes, each holding stories and knowledge waiting to be discovered. Simple desks provide peaceful spots for study, and a sanctuary for those eager to learn. Adjacent to the library is the headmaster's office
Ayush knocked on the sturdy wooden door, and a deep, melodious voice resonated from within. "Come in."
With a polite gesture, Ayush welcomed Ryan and Fen into Eryndor's office and then slipped away into the corridor.
Headmaster Eryndor Thorne was seated at his desk, writing something on some piece of paper. He lifted his head up, and straighly got up from his seat as Fen and Ryan entered.
Eryndor stood tall at six feet two, he had athletic build. Though likely in his late forties or early fifties, his sharp features and piercing blue-grey eyes gave him an aura of vitality. His short, dark brown hair had hints of silver at the temples, and a trimmed beard framed his strong jawline.
His black robes, adorned with intricate silver embroidery, draped elegantly over his figure. The Arena's emblem—intertwining elements of earth, air, fire, and water—was prominently displayed on his chest. Simple silver cufflinks and leather gloves completed his distinguished look. A faint scar above his left eyebrow and subtle elemental tattoos on his forearms.
"Greetings, Lord Fenrir. It's a pleasure to meet you," Eryndor said, his tone respectful.
Fen replied telepathically, "Nice to meet you too, Eryndor. Is everything ready?"
"Yes, my Lord. I may trouble you with some papers for your signature. Would you mind?"
"I don't mind. Let's get it done now. Oh, and this is Ryan Lane."
"Delighted to meet you," Eryndor said, extending his hand.
Ryan shook it, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "The pleasure's mine."
He observed their greeting with a little bit of anxiety. What if the academy rejected me? It seemed unlikely, though. After all, Fen was his sponsor. But how did Fen manage to communicate telepathically? And why could he hear it?
Fen's gaze flickered toward Ryan, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips. Ryan stood there, taken aback. A being of Fen's caliber, yet so infuriatingly carefree.
Suddenly, Fen's laughter echoed in Ryan's mind, a sound only he could hear. It was both amusing and annoying. Meanwhile, the headmaster remained unaware, his expression unchanged.
Eryndor leaned in closer, his grey eyes gleaming with wisdom. "Ryan, your elemental swordsmanship training begins now. Let's start with Earth."
Ryan's curiosity piqued. "Earth? Why not Fire or Wind?"
"Earth represents stability and foundation," Eryndor explained calmly.
"Mastering Earth techniques builds physical strength, endurance, and control. Your swordsmanship will thrive from this solid base."
Ryan nodded, digesting the information.
"Earth training enhances your defensive capabilities, teaching you to parry, block, and counterattack effectively," Eryndor explained futher.
"Your Earth element training will bring three main benefits. First, you'll build physical resilience, boosting your strength and agility. Next, you'll sharpen your technical precision, gaining better control over your sword for more accurate strikes. Finally, your tactical awareness will grow, helping you make smarter combat decisions."
"Expect at least six months of intense training in the basics," Eryndor advised.
Dedicate yourself to 4-5 hours daily. Your progress will be impressive."
"You'll work with skilled instructors, experts in Earth element swordsmanship," Eryndor assured. "They'll guide you through fundamental stances, sword techniques, and combat strategies. Your training starts tomorrow. Work hard, Ryan!"
Ryan nodded firmly. "I understand, sir. I'm committed to mastering all the elements for swordsmanship. Thank you for your guidance, Master Eryndor."
After signing the documents with his paw, Fen piped up, "May I also stay here? Lord Chronos personally entrusted me with this young man's care."
Eryndor's smile widened. "You are welcome to stay as long as you wish."
"Thank you," Fen replied. "May we proceed to our quarters?"
Eryndor turned to one of his attendants. "Please escort our guests to their quarters. And Prabin, make sure Ryan receives the comprehensive Earth Element Swordsmanship texts and the ancient tome, 'Foundations of Elemental Balance,' in his quarters."
Prabin stepped forward, and with a light bow, he said. "Follow me, gentlemen."
With a gentle gesture, Prabin led Fen and Ryan through winding corridors to the majestic Earth Tower. They arrived at a sturdy wooden door adorned with intricate earthy symbols on the tower's third floor. The door creaked open, revealing the training hall beyond.
Prabin unlocked the door and bowed slightly. "Your quarters within the Earth Tower. Rest well," he said.
With a courteous smile, he departed.
***
Ryan's Earth Tower room was cozy and practical. Two comfortable beds lined opposite walls, each covered in warm, earthy blankets. A wooden desk sat by the window, offering a peaceful study spot that overlooked the courtyard. A fireplace crackled softly, casting a warm glow across the room.
Ryan's eyes widened as he entered. The crackling fireplace and warm lighting wrapped around him. "This is perfect," he exclaimed, dropping his backpack onto the nearest bed. Fen smiled, settling onto the opposite bed.
Ryan began unpacking, organizing his belongings in the prepared cabinet. He stowed away his hiking gear, changed into warm woolen attire, and slipped on soft, padded boots. A refreshing wash with warm water revitalized him, chasing away the Himalayan winter's chill.
Invigorated, Ryan settled beside the fireplace, gazing into the dancing flames.
"Blissful," he sighed, feeling the warmth seep into his bones.
A knock at the door broke the silence.
"Come in!" Ryan called out.
Prabin entered with a courteous bow. "Your study materials, Ryan. Master Eryndor's selections for your Earth element swordsmanship training." He placed a stack of leather-bound tomes on the wooden desk.
Ryan's eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Thank you, Prabin."
As Prabin departed, Ryan eagerly opened the first book, "Terra Veritas." The yellowed pages revealed intricate illustrations of earthy maneuvers. Ryan traced the diagrams with his fingers, trying to decipher their meanings.
Next, he opened "Elementia," marveling at the elaborate theories of elemental balance. He whispered with excitement, "Learning what others deem impossible..."
Fen, sitting cross-paws-legged on his bed, suddenly spoke up. "Your core energy is now at half the size of your fist, Ryan."
Ryan's gaze snapped up, intrigued. "Already?"
Fen nodded, a hint of a smile on his face. "Your focus accelerates your growth. You are talented, just as Lord Chronos said."
"Oh, really? Did Lord Chronos say I'm talented?"
Ryan approached Fen, who was lounging on his bed, bubbling with excitement.
Fen raised an eyebrow, a bit taken aback. "Whoa, calm down, young one. Yes, Lord Chronos did say that. If it weren't true, you'd really struggle with the training to become a Lord Guardian heir. That's no walk in the park."
Ryan nodded, processing this revelation. So, the leader of the Guardians of Time was called Lord Guardian. It was a pretty cool title, he thought.
With a newfound sense of purpose, Ryan settled into his desk chair, his eyes wandering to the stunning view outside. The landscape was the perfect backdrop for the task ahead, a tapestry of vibrant green and blue.
He turned his attention to the materials Prabin had provided. They were filled with the essentials of earth elemental magic and earth elemental swordsmanship. Ryan dove into the texts, marking crucial points and highlighting important pages.