The resonant toll of the great bell echoed across the vast courtyard of Academia Arcanum, signaling the beginning of a new term. The air brimmed with excitement as young nobles and commoners alike gathered beneath the banners of the kingdom, each one brimming with anticipation.
On the central stage stood the Headmaster, a venerable man with long white hair flowing like a river of wisdom. His presence radiated both authority and tranquility as he raised his voice for all to hear.
"Welcome, students, to Academia Arcanum.This is not merely a school—it is the crucible in which the future of Elvaria shall be forged."
Murmurs swept through the crowd as awe lit the faces of the new students. For many, it was their first step into the world of magic, honor, and destiny.
But Serena Alveir stood still, her expression calm though her heart wavered. Among this sea of aspiring magi, almost all bore contracts with spirits. She alone carried none.
"...You are Serena Alveir, aren't you?"A smooth, composed voice spoke beside her.
She turned—and there he was again. The young man with light-blue hair, his tall figure clad in the academy's uniform, drawing quiet glances from all around him.
"...Lord Kyren?" she asked cautiously.
He smiled faintly. "I'm glad you still remember my name."
"I only heard others mention it," she replied coolly. "Kyren Adelric, son of Duke Adelric, the defender of the demon-border frontiers… famed for bravery."
Kyren chuckled softly. "Rumors often embellish. But one thing is true—I want to learn how humans might live without depending on spirits every single breath."
His words struck her. Serena's eyes widened just slightly, a spark of recognition flickering within."...That is the same as me," she whispered, before quickly averting her gaze.
The First Lesson – Combat Training
The sound of wooden swords clashing rang across the training field.Clack! Clack!
Serena faced a noble youth, his expression smug."So you're the spiritless girl. Let's see how long you last!" he taunted, charging forward.
But with swift, precise movements—whack!Serena disarmed him in just three strokes, sending him sprawling onto the ground.
Gasps erupted from the watching students.
"Incredible… she didn't even use magic.""How much training must she have endured for such swordsmanship?"
Breathless but unwavering, Serena straightened. From the sidelines, the instructor nodded in approval.
Not far away, Kyren watched with a faint smile, his cool gaze hiding a glimmer of something far deeper.
That Evening – In the Garden
Laughter drifted from a group of noble girls walking behind Serena.
"There she is—the one the spirits rejected.""No matter how good her sword is, without magic, she's worthless.""Imagine, the fiancée of the crown prince, yet powerless… how pitiful."
Serena lifted her chin, refusing to turn or respond. But their words cut deep.
Just then, a calm voice called out from the shadows of a tree."They exaggerate."
She turned to find Kyren leaning casually against the trunk, bathed in silver moonlight.
"Were you listening?" Serena asked sharply.
"No," he said with a faint smile. "But you should not let such words wound you."
She laughed bitterly, mocking herself."You probably think the same—that I am worthless."
"I have never thought that," Kyren replied at once, his gaze piercing into hers."On the contrary—I believe you possess something that even spirits fail to see."
Her heart trembled. She looked away quickly and strode past him, unwilling to let her emotions show. Behind her, Kyren's mysterious smile lingered, his eyes gleaming with unfathomable depth.