The Skyreach Mountains loomed in the distance, their jagged peaks slicing through the clouds like blades. The air had grown colder as the group climbed higher, and the once vibrant greens of the Verdantwilds gave way to rocky terrain and sparse vegetation.
Azhaan's breath came in shallow puffs as he followed Kaela up the winding path, the weight of his pack digging into his shoulders. Behind him, Alira moved with a practiced ease, her beast's glowing vines trailing faintly against the rocky ground.
"How much further?" Azhaan asked, his voice strained.
Kaela glanced back at him, her expression unreadable. "Not far. We'll reach the outer gates by midday."
Azhaan nodded, though his legs burned with every step. Beside him, Shade padded silently, its red eyes scanning the surroundings. The bond between them hummed faintly, a steady presence that kept Azhaan grounded.
"I hope this academy is worth the hype," Alira said, breaking the silence. "I'm not exactly a fan of authority."
Kaela smirked. "Skyreach isn't about authority. It's about survival. You'll see soon enough."
By the time they reached the gates of Skyreach Spire, the sun hung high overhead, its light reflecting off the towering structure in the distance. The Spire itself floated above a sprawling city, connected to the ground by shimmering chains of magic that pulsed with energy.
Azhaan stared in awe as they approached the city gates. The walls were adorned with glowing runes, and massive statues of tamers and beasts flanked the entrance. Beyond the gates, the streets bustled with activity, filled with tamers, merchants, and beasts of all shapes and sizes.
"Welcome to Skyreach," Kaela said, her voice tinged with pride.
Azhaan barely heard her, his eyes wide as he took in the sight of the city. "This… this is incredible."
"It's overwhelming at first," Kaela admitted, leading the way through the gates. "But you'll get used to it."
The streets were alive with energy, and Azhaan found himself staring at every corner. Merchants shouted over one another, hawking goods ranging from glowing crystals to enchanted armor. Tamers walked with their beasts, some small and timid, others towering and fierce.
Shade growled softly as a bird-like creature with fiery feathers darted past, its tamer laughing as they tried to keep up.
"Careful," Kaela warned. "This isn't Stonebridge. Everyone here is a competitor."
They made their way through the city, the towering spire growing closer with every step. The floating structure was massive, its base surrounded by platforms that housed arenas, training grounds, and dormitories.
Kaela led them to a smaller building near the edge of the Spire's main platform. Inside, the air was cool and quiet, a stark contrast to the chaos outside.
"This is the administrative hall," Kaela explained. "You'll register here, get your dorm assignments, and meet with an advisor. After that, you're on your own."
Azhaan frowned. "You're not staying?"
Kaela shook her head. "I have my own business to take care of. But don't worry, I'll be around."
Before Azhaan could respond, a tall figure in a deep blue cloak approached. Their sharp features and piercing gaze immediately commanded attention.
"You must be the new recruit," they said, their voice crisp and formal.
Azhaan hesitated. "Uh, yeah. That's me."
The figure's gaze flickered to Shade, their eyes narrowing slightly. "And that's the beast everyone's been talking about."
Azhaan stiffened. "Is that going to be a problem?"
The figure didn't answer immediately. Instead, they motioned for him to follow. "Come with me. There's much to discuss."
Azhaan followed the cloaked figure through a maze of hallways, his heart pounding with every step. Shade stayed close, its glowing eyes darting around as if sensing the tension in the air.
They eventually entered a large chamber filled with glowing orbs and floating screens. The walls were lined with shelves of books and scrolls, and a faint hum of magic filled the air.
"This is the evaluation chamber," the figure explained. "Every new tamer undergoes a brief assessment to determine their skills, compatibility with their beast, and potential within the academy."
Azhaan swallowed hard. "What happens if I fail?"
The figure smiled faintly. "You won't. But be prepared to fight. The academy does not accept weakness."
Before Azhaan could respond, the room shifted. The glowing orbs floated higher, and a circular platform rose from the center of the floor.
"Step onto the platform," the figure instructed.
Azhaan hesitated, glancing at Shade. The Shadow Stalker let out a low growl, its body tense.
"It's alright," Azhaan said softly, stepping onto the platform. Shade followed, its glowing eyes scanning the room warily.
The moment they were in position, the platform lit up. A pulse of energy surged through the air, and the room around them dissolved into a swirling void.
Azhaan's breath caught as the void solidified into a rocky arena, the sound of wind howling through the air. Across from him, a spectral beast materialized—a hulking creature with sharp claws and glowing blue eyes.
"Your task is simple," the figure's voice echoed. "Prove your bond."
The beast roared, its claws scraping against the ground as it charged.
Shade moved instantly, intercepting the creature with a swift leap. The two beasts collided, their growls filling the arena. Azhaan felt the bond surge, a mix of adrenaline and focus flooding his senses.
"Come on, Shade," Azhaan muttered, his grip tightening on his dagger. "We've got this."
The fight was on, and there was no turning back.