As the sun rose over the horizon, casting a warm golden glow into the room, Agneyastra found herself in a spacious classroom. Rows of sturdy wooden desks stood in perfect alignment, awaiting the arrival of the students. But it was the large mat, spread across the floor, that captured Agneyastra''s attention.
Adorned with intricate symbols and patterns, the mat and Various weapons adorned the walls. Agneyastra meticulously placed a stack of papers on each student''s desk, ensuring that everything was in order for the imminent written exam.
Just as she was finishing, Aurgelmir approached her with a warm smile. His eyes sparkled with gratitude and respect as he stopped alongside her. “Agney,” he began, his voice filled with genuine appreciation, “thank you for all your tireless help throughout this year. You have been an invaluable asset to the classroom.”
Agneyastra, still focused on her task, lifted her head and nodded graciously. “It was an honor, Aurgelmir.”
Aurgelmir''s hand rested gently on Agneyastra''s shoulder, his voice shifting to a more serious tone. “Everything seems to be in order for the written exam. You have done a fantastic job preparing our students. However, there is one more thing.” He hesitated for a moment, his eyes searching Agneyastra''s face.
She turned to face him fully, her eyes meeting his with curiosity and a heightened sense of purpose. “What is it, Aurgelmir? What else needs to be done?”
Aurgelmir''s gaze steadied on her, his voice filled with a tinge of urgency. “Dean Jost has requested your presence for the physical exam tomorrow. It seems your skills are highly regarded, and he wants to personally assess your capabilities.”
“Yes, I will be,” Agneyastra responded confidently to Aurgelmir''s query. “I finished my training for this semester. May I ask why?”
Aurgelmir''s smile grew wider, hints of a plan twinkle in his eyes as he replied, “It is vital for all Dwellers to understand the bitter taste of defeat. Ramil, despite his incredible skill, has never once been bested in training. I believe that, with your unparalleled prowess, you have the power to make him experience this reality.”
Agneyastra''s features creased with uncertainty, voicing her hesitation. “I can''t bring myself to do that.”
Aurgelmir''s tone turned serious, a weighty warning hanging in his words. “Then, Dean Jost will not hesitate to expel.”
Facing Aurgelmir''s unwavering gaze, Agneyastra''s voice wavered with a mix of frustration and curiosity. “Why? What is so crucial that Ramil must learn this lesson?”
Aurgelmir''s voice echoed with wisdom as he responded, “This is not a mere lesson in combat or victory, Agneyastra. It is a lesson in humility, resilience, and the constant pursuit of growth. Ramil needs to understand that even the strongest among us can falter, and that true strength lies not just in victory, but also in how we rise after defeat.”
Resigned to her fate, Agneyastra''s voice held a hint of determination. “Fine, I will do it. But I must warn you, he has dedicated himself tirelessly to his training for weeks.”
Aurgelmir''s voice carried an unwavering confidence, gently reminding Agneyastra of her own capabilities. “You have been training for far longer than him, my dear. Your journey has taken you to the depths of demon-filled realms. Do not underestimate yourself.”
Agneyastra leaned against Aurgelmir''s desk, her eyes filled with a mix of weariness and determination. “Sometimes, even if you give your all, it doesn''t guarantee that will be enough. But to face such challenges head-on is the mark of true resilience.”
Aurgelmir stood at the front of the room, towering over his students seated in anticipation. With a gentle smile, he began to speak, the authority in his voice commanding their attention.
The classroom door swung open, allowing a group of Dweller boys to flood in, their eyes filled with excitement and a touch of nervousness. Ramil, their leader, led the way, his tall figure exuding confidence. Behind them, Sandra entered the room, her presence inviting and serene as she took her seat at the front.
“Welcome, everyone,” Aurgelmir spoke, his voice resonating with warmth. “Today, you will embark on your final written exams, a testament to the knowledge and growth you have achieved. Tomorrow, you will demonstrate your physical prowess in front of esteemed guests, including Dean Jost and Leader Marudeva, as well as your families and fellow students. But for now, let us begin with your written exam.”
With those words, Aurgelmir settled into his chair, observing as the students took their positions at their desks, the classroom hushed with anticipation. Agneyastra seat beside Aurgelmir. Engrossed in her thoughts, Agneyastra idly traced her fingernail along the smooth surface of the wooden desk. Her eyes lifted, catching a fleeting glimpse of Ramil''s intense gaze upon her. A pause, a moment of connection, before he shifted his focus back to his own exam.
The passing of time slipped by in a blur as the students immersed themselves in their tasks, the silence only interrupted by the occasional scratch of a pen against paper. Aurgelmir, ever watchful, observed their diligence, his pride shining through his gaze.
Finally, the hour came to a close, and one by one, the students placed their pens down, their expressions a mixture of relief and accomplishment. Aurgelmir, too, rose from his seat, a gentle smile of approval etched on his face.
Ramil and the other students eagerly gather their belongings and make their way out of the classroom. Agneyastra, however, finds herself lingering behind, her attention still fixed on Aurgelmir, who remains seated at his desk, engrossed in the task of grading the students'' exams.
With a content smile, Aurgelmir nods in acknowledgement as Agneyastra approaches. “I am going to take my lunch now,” she says, her voice carrying a hint of weariness.
Aurgelmir''s eyes briefly meet hers, his expression a mix of understanding and encouragement. “Of course, Agneyastra,” he replies, his voice filled with warmth. “You have earned a well-deserved break.”
Leaving the classroom, Agneyastra''s gaze falls upon Ramil engaged in conversation with a group of friends. Determined to share some important news, she gently tugs on his shirt, drawing his attention. “Ramil, I have to tell you something,” she whispers urgently.
Ramil turns to face her, confusion flickering across his features. “Agney, what is it?” he asks, his tone filled with curiosity.
Agneyastra takes a moment to gather her thoughts before continuing. “Tomorrow is the physical exam,” she reveals, hoping to convey the gravity of the situation.
Ramil laughs, though his eyes betray a hint of concern. “I know, Agney. General Aurgelmir mentioned it in class. But why are you so on edge? You''ve seemed different ever since you encountered that fish boy.”
His words strike a chord within her, but Agneyastra is determined to share the full extent of her worries. “No, there is more,” she insists.
Just as their conversation seems poised to continue, Dean Jost makes a sudden appearance, his imposing figure stepping into the bustling hall. The mere presence of the high-ranking official brings forth an eerie silence, as if the air itself holds its breath.
“Agneyastra,” Dean Jost''s voice cuts through the heavy silence, stern and authoritarian. “I know you were not about to spoil the exam by sharing classified information.”
Agneyastra turns her attention to Dean Jost, her eyes widening with a mixture of surprise and apprehension. “I didn''t know,” she stammers, her voice trembling with a tinge of desperation. “I wasn''t allowed to share the information.” With a gentle yet firm grip, Dean Jost guides Agneyastra away from Ramil, leading her further down the hallway.
***
The morning sun cast a warm glow across Ramil''s room as he woke up and prepared for the day ahead. With his backpack in hand, he stepped out into the hallway, his footsteps echoing softly against the polished floors. As he approached Agneyastra''s bedroom door, he rapped his knuckles against the wood and slowly turned the doorknob.
“Are you still pouting?” he called out.
Stepping into Agneyastra''s room, Ramil''s eyes swept across the familiar surroundings, but he quickly realized that something was amiss. Agneyastra was nowhere to be seen. He noticed the closet door was slightly ajar, and curiosity pulled him closer. Pushing the door open gently, he was greeted by the sight of numerous chests brimming with exquisite gifts, bestowed upon Agneyastra by Prince Marius.
But what struck Ramil as peculiar was that none of these gifts seemed to have been touched or enjoyed by Agneyastra. They remained unopened and untouched.
Just as Ramil''s thoughts began to unravel, his father Marudeva''s voice broke the silence, his tone laced with a mix of surprise and concern. “Ramil, why are you in Agneyastra''s room?”
Ramil turned to face his father, gesturing towards the chests in the closet. “Father, is it not odd that she hasn''t used any of these gifts from Marius?”
Marudeva''s reaction was quick, gently shoving Ramil out of Agneyastra''s room. His eyes held a flicker of worry, his voice tinged with a sense of urgency. “You should be focusing on your physical exam,” he advised.
Ramil stumbled in the hallway, his gaze fixed on the closed door of Agneyastra''s room. Frowning, he turned to his father and asked, “I went to get her for training. Where is she?”
Marudeva sighed, his voice tinged with weariness. “Dean Jost and Aurgelmir picked her up early this morning. They''re busy preparing the training building for today''s Physical exam. Come, let''s go. Your brothers are waiting for us downstairs.”
Ramil wordlessly followed his father down the grand staircase, the echoes of their footsteps resonating in the ornate foyer. As they reached the bottom of the stairs, his younger brothers Emathion and Sinai stood there, anticipation evident in their expressions. Ramil''s thoughts drifted back to Agneyastra—his fierce and spirited friend who had seemed different ever since they returned from their journey to the Earth Kingdom.
Unable to contain his concern any longer, Ramil turned to Marudeva. “Agney hasn''t been herself since we came back from the Earth Kingdom.”
Marudeva paused, his stern gaze meeting Ramil''s eyes. “Stop dwelling on such matters. Clear your mind. If you don''t perform well today, I will have no choice but to make you attend another year of training.”
Ramil nodded, understanding the weight of his father''s words. With a resigned sigh, he replied, “Fine, let''s go.”
Marudeva and his sons, Emathion, Ramil, and Sinai, as they stepped out of their home. Marudeva''s eyes scanned the street, searching for a passing carriage. With an alluring wave of his hand, he successfully flagged down a carriage, his family stepping inside without hesitation. The carriage journeyed on, carrying them swiftly towards their destination - the Dwelle''s educational training building.
As they arrived at their destination, the excitement in the air was palpable. Families and children bustled around, eagerly converging towards the building''s entrance. Marudeva led his sons out of the carriage, their gazes filled with anticipation as they observed the gathering of fellow dwellers.
The large open arena beckoned, its expanse filled with rows of parents and children assembling themselves. Marudeva pointed towards the center, his voice carrying a mixture of pride and encouragement. “Go do your best,” he said, conviction lacing his words.
Ramil, with a self-assured smirk, reacted to his father''s words. “I am already the best in my class,” he replied confidently. With a determined stride, Ramil positioned himself amidst his peers, displaying a quiet confidence that set him apart.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.
Dean Jost walks out with Aurgelmir and Agneyastra, Dean Jost instructions the students to preform different moves with hand to hand and with weapons. As Agneyastra watched as Ramil was clearly excelling at all the exam challenges he was made to do.
Dean Jost stood on a weathered mat that had witnessed countless confrontations. His commanding voice pierced through the silence, rousing a sense of anticipation within the gathered students. “Everyone, line up and prepare to face each other in combat,” he declared, his eyes glinting with excitement.
Ramil, exuding confidence with every step, glared at Dean Jost and Aurgelmir, sporting a cocky smile that painted him as the victor before the fights had even begun. “That was too easy, it’s like they weren’t even trying,” he jeered, his words dripping with arrogance.
Unfazed by Ramil''s taunts, Dean Jost responded coolly, “We are not done yet, Mr. Ash. Agneyastra, step forward.”
Agneyastra, her slender frame poised with an air of determination, stepped onto the mat. She raised her fists, ready to face the challenge ahead. Ramil saw this as an opportunity to belittle her, his voice dripping with scorn, “She will never fight. Always running away, deep down, she knows she''ll never be enough...”
Before Ramil could finish his cruel words, Agneyastra sprung forward with surprising speed. Ramil attempted to defend himself, bracing for the onslaught, but Agneyastra''s movements were too fluid, too precise. Like a specter, she effortlessly evaded his attacks, slipping away just as his hands reached for her. In a swift motion, she seized control, flipping Ramil with such force that the impact resonated throughout the mat.
Once Ramil found himself sprawled on the ground, Agneyastra wasted no time. She pressed her knee firmly against his throat, her voice steady yet demanding, “Do you yield?”
Caught by surprise and feeling the weight of his defeat, Ramil gasped out a defeated “yes.” Agneyastra gracefully released her hold, allowing Ramil room to breathe once more. As he slowly rose to his feet, his eyes scanned the arena, now filled with an uneasy silence. Ramil turned his back, his purposeful strides leading him towards the exit, as Agneyastra stood alone in the center of the mat watching him stroll away.
***
As the midday sun cascades through the windows, Moriko''s royal-sized bedroom is bathed in a warm, golden glow. The air is palpable with excitement as she eagerly straps on her backpack, preparing for her imminent departure. In the stillness of the grand chamber, Emathion''s voice reverberates within her mind. “I just wanted to wish you safe travels on your trip,” Emathion''s spectral voice whispers, weaving its way into Moriko''s thoughts.
A soft smile tugs at her lips as she responds, her voice laced with anticipation. “I am only going to visit with Lacey for a day,” she explains. “It''s her younger brother Jeremy''s 17th birthday, and their family has always been so kind. It''s a shame Agney couldn''t join us this time, but perhaps in the future. I hope you and Sandra have a pleasant day together.”
As Moriko stands beside her bed, a serene quietude settles over her. She takes her first steps, her presence commanding as she traverses the majestic chambers of the Earth Kingdom''s castle.
Navigating the corridors with practiced grace, Moriko embarks on a lengthy journey, her determination unwavering. Finally, after what feels like an eternity, she reaches the hallowed threshold of the front door. Stepping out into the world beyond, a rush of fresh air greets her, invigorating her senses.
As Moriko starts down the path that will lead her away from the castle, she passes through the empty streets of Stone City. She enters the outskirts of Stone City and ventures forth into the verdant embrace of the Green Forest. Shades of emerald and jade envelop her, the air thick with the scent of earth and life.
With every cautious footprint, Moriko treads deeper into the heart of the forest, the ancient trees whispering their age-old secrets. A symphony of birdcalls and rustling leaves greet her, a melodic backdrop to her solitary journey. The sunlight dapples the forest floor, illuminating the path ahead, guiding her towards her destination.
As Moriko ventured deeper into the ethereal labyrinth, the verdant hues of the forest embraced her with an embrace so warm and familiar. The gentle caress of the trees against her fingertips. In the midst of the enchantment, Moriko''s eyes fell upon a majestic tree standing proudly amidst the sea of green. With delicate precision, Moriko extended her hand, adorned with a bracelet expertly crafted from the very essence of the forest itself. As her fingertips touched the bark, a magical transformation unfolded before her eyes. Like ripples on a pond, a vibrant green portal materialized, seemingly from within the very core of the tree.
Stepping through the portal, Moriko found herself bathed in the soft illumination of a new world. As her eyes adjusted to the enchanting scene, she was greeted by the presence of Lacey, a girl adorned with golden locks that shimmered like sunlight, and whose skin held the faintest hint of a summer tan. The air buzzed with an electric energy as Lacey rushed towards Moriko, joy evident in her voice.
“Moriko, you made it! Jeremy has been waiting with the car,” Lacey exclaimed, her words flowing like a melody in the air. With a gentle grasp of Moriko''s arm, Lacey guided her out of the mystical patch of woods and into the realm of the everyday, nearer to the bustling highway beyond.
As Moriko emerged from the woods, a sense of both longing and anticipation swelled within her. The familiar sights and sounds of the highway enveloped her, their cacophony blending seamlessly with the lingering magic of the forest. With each step closer to Jeremy''s impatiently idling car.
Jeremy sat in the driver''s seat, his lightly brown hair falling slightly over his eyes as he peered through his glasses. He was a young man of seventeen, filled with a sense of anticipation that filled the air around him. His hands tightened around the wheel as he caught sight of Lacey walking towards him, accompanied by the ethereal Moriko.
With the grace of a wanderer from another world, Moriko settled herself in the backseat, her eyes filled with a warm smile. Lacey, her presence a radiant glow, took her place in the front seat beside Jeremy. The engine roared to life, and with a focused determination, Jeremy directed the car onto the open highway.
Moriko''s voice flowed through the car, carrying the echoes of distant lands and unimaginable adventures. “It has been far too long. You both should consider visiting my realm sometime,” she suggested, her words hinting at a realm of magic and wonder. “A few weeks ago, I hosted a lavish party for my dear friend Agneyastra.”
Jeremy''s attention flickered momentarily from the road as he processed Moriko''s words. “Ah, so that''s why Lacey was pouting back then,” he said, a mixture of understanding and relief coloring his voice. “I thought she had planned to come with you here.”
Moriko''s eyes glanced at Lacey, a flicker of sadness passing through her gaze. “Agneyastra has fallen ill, I''m afraid,” she confessed gently. “But fear not, for I am here now.”
Lacey''s eyes locked onto her brother Jeremy, a mix of envy and frustration swirling within her. “Well, I missed Moriko,” she muttered. Meanwhile, Moriko, sitting comfortably in the back seat of the car, chimed in with a polite, “Congratulations, Jeremy.”
The car glided smoothly down the highway, eventually finding its place in the crowded apartment building parking lot. Lacey stepped out of the car, followed closely by Jeremy and Moriko. The latter, ever conscious of her unique appearance, attempted to conceal her green skin beneath the security of her flowing cloak. Lacey, caught sight of Moriko''s discomfort and reassured her, “Don''t worry about that, Moriko. Here in Florida, as long as you mind your own business and keep your clothes on in public, no one pays much attention. Now, let''s go join Kasey. She''s already here with my nephew, Lee.”
With Moriko now walking beside them, Lacey and Jeremy made their way towards the towering apartment building. Stepping inside, they embarked into the elevator, their senses engulfed by the familiar hum of its ascent. The lift carried them swiftly upwards, reaching the top floor in what felt like mere seconds. As the elevator doors swung open, revealing a well-lit corridor adorned with a few nondescript doors.
As they pushed open the door to the spacious apartment, they were greeted with a burst of vibrant colors and cheerful decorations that adorned the walls and ceilings. The unmistakable essence of a celebration hung in the air, filling the room with an aura of joy and merriment. Jeremy and Lacey''s parents were among the first to approach Moriko, embracing her warmly and expressing their delight at her presence. Not far off, Kasey stood engaged in conversation with her husband, his face etched with hints of frustration. He cast a pointed finger towards his son, Lee, who stood clad in a pink shirt beside them, oblivious to the brewing tension.
As the day unfolded, Moriko found herself immersed in the company of friends, amidst the laughter and celebration. Jeremy''s birthday became a tapestry of cherished moments, interwoven with the laughter and love shared amongst them all.
***
In the Water Kingdom, Evain gingerly stepped into the office of King Arroyo. The room was adorned with golden accents and intricate carvings, reflecting the opulence of the royal family. Her gaze fell upon her mother, the Queen, who paced hurriedly in front of King Arroyo''s imposing presence.
Suddenly, Arroyo''s sharp gaze fell upon Evain, piercing her with a mixture of curiosity and caution. His deep voice resonated through the room, sending shivers down her spine. “What do you want, Evain?” he demanded, his tone laced with a hint of impatience.
Undeterred, Evain gathered her courage and spoke with a determined yet respectful tone. “I''ve been wondering if you have considered my application for the Water Kingdom Army, father,” she replied, hoping to leave an impression that could not be easily dismissed.
Her mother, the Queen intervened, her voice tinged with worry. “Evain, we have many more pressing matters to attend to. Marius, heir to the throne, has locked himself away and refuses to come out--particularly for his wedding with Brooke, who waits along with our esteemed guests in the grand ballroom.”
A spark of inspiration flickered in Evain''s eyes as she saw an opportunity to prove her worth. “Exactly, mother. If I can successfully coax Marius out of his seclusion and convince him to marry Brooke, will you reconsider my enlistment in the army?”
King Arroyo''s gaze shifted from his wife to Evain, considering her proposal. After a moment of deliberation, he nodded solemnly. “It''s a deal, Evain. You have until the end of the evening to accomplish your task.”
Evain thanked both her parents before swiftly exiting the office. Determination and resolve coursed through her veins as she made her way down the grand corridors. Evain entered Marius’s room with a soft knock on the door. As she stepped into the dimly lit space, she found Marius lying on his bed, his eyes fixated on the intricate patterns of the canopy above. His face bore the weight of uncertainty and regret.
“You know,” Evain began, her voice steady but laced with concern, “hundreds of people are eagerly awaiting your union with Brooke. This is the path you have chosen.”
Marius sighed, his voice heavy with remorse. “I know, but I''ve made a colossal mistake by kissing her.”
Evain''s eyes fell on Marius''s wedding attire hanging on the closet door. She retrieved it and gently placed it beside him on the bed, as if to remind him of his impending nuptials. With a furrowed brow, she spoke again, “What does it matter if you shared a moment with Brooke? In less than half an hour, you will stand before the altar, bound to her.”
Sitting up, Marius locked eyes with his sister. There was a mixture of confusion and longing in his gaze. “I kissed Agneyastra,” he confessed, the words tumbling out like a hidden secret finally set free. “Why, all of a sudden, do you support my marriage with Brooke?”
Evain''s expression softened, revealing a hidden agenda. “Father has promised me the opportunity to join the army if you tie the knot today,” she admitted, her voice low and tinged with ambition. But then, her interest took a sudden turn, a spark of curiosity igniting within her. “Forget that for a moment. What was it like, Marius? What was it like to kiss someone with the power of fire?”
Marius felt the memories wash over him, the heat of Agneyastra''s touch still lingering in his veins. He ran a hand through his hair, his face etched with both pain and longing. “I can still feel her warmth coursing through me,” he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. “It''s like withdrawing from an addiction I never realized I had, letting her go.”
Taking a seat beside Marius, Evain looked into his eyes, her voice laced with both curiosity and worry. “Did Agneyastra truly want to be with you?” she inquired..
Marius''s expression softened, a hint of sadness in his eyes. “She is searching for a place to belong,” he replied, his voice tinged with regret. “But I made a difficult choice. I rejected the idea of being with Agneyastra because I knew deep down that our father would have used her to serve his twisted agenda, to harm the Fire Kingdom. She deserves better than that.”
Evain couldn''t help but feel a mix of admiration and concern for her brother. She leaned closer, her voice becoming firmer. “Marius, your compassion can be both a strength and a weakness,” she cautioned, her eyes searching his face for understanding. “But now, it''s time to think about our Kingdom, about securing a future for it.”
Marius, feeling the weight of his sister''s words, sighed deeply. Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, he finally spoke. “You''re right, Evain,” he conceded, his voice tinged with determination. “I will get dressed and face whatever lies ahead.”
Rising from his seat, Marius picked up his attire and made his way towards the bathroom. As he closed the door behind him, he called out to Evain. “Give me a few minutes,” he requested.
Evain stood outside Marius''s opulent bedroom, her heart heavy with anticipation. The door creaked open, and there stood her brother, Marius, resplendent in his royal Water Kingdom wedding suit. Evain fell into step beside him as they made their way towards the grand chapel, their footsteps echoing across the marble floor.
The chapel was adorned with intricate tapestries and shimmering crystals, a symbol of the grandeur of the Water Kingdom. Guests from far and wide filled the pews, their eyes fixed on the couple standing at the altar. Evain settled into a seat beside her other brother, Devereaux, offering him a knowing glance. Both Marius and his betrothed, Brooke, wore masks of despair, their union plagued by unspoken turmoil.
As the wedding turned into a joyless reception, time seemed to stretch endlessly. Hours later, Marius rose abruptly from his seat, the weight of his discontent apparent in his every movement. Without uttering a word, he walked away from the grand hall.
Inexplicably, the Queen appeared, dragging Brooke by the arm towards Marius''s retreating figure. A Water Kingdom Soldier trailed closely behind, a foreboding presence in the tense atmosphere. With a coldness in her voice, the Queen called out to Marius, her words laced with a mixture of concern and tradition. “Marius, you forgot your bride,” she declared, her grip on Brooke unwavering.
Marius took Brooke''s hand gently, his gaze fixed unyieldingly on the soldier following closely behind. A faint note of defiance danced in his eyes as he questioned the suffocating tradition. “Do we really have to do it this way?” he asked.
The Queen''s reply was firm, tinged with a hint of worry. “Yes,” she said, her tone carrying the weight of generations of tradition. “It is customary for someone to bear witness to your first night together. Considering Brooke''s past attacks on you, I want to ensure your safety.”
Marius turned away, his grip on Brooke''s hand unyielding. A bitter smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he spoke his final words, laced with a foreboding sense of fate. “I hope her blade is sharp tonight. Goodnight, mother,” Marius said, his voice carrying a hint of resignation. With Brooke by his side and the soldier trailing in their wake, their figures dwindled into the darkened corridor.