Morning light streamed through the academy's tall windows, dust motes dancing in golden rays. Izumi walked through the hallways, Jack and Aria trailing behind. Despite the calm appearance of the academy, the shard pulsed insistently in his chest, signaling that danger—or at least a challenge—was near.
"This place just keeps getting weirder," Jack muttered. "I mean, seriously, why is everything always so… magical?"
Aria smiled faintly, her gaze on Izumi. "Magic isn't just spells and illusions, Jack. There are tests hidden in every corner of this academy. You just have to know where to look."
Izumi's eyes scanned the walls, his senses stretching beyond sight. Threads of faint energy traced patterns through the corridors, pulsing with irregularity. He moved cautiously toward the source, aware that this could be another test designed by the academy—or something far older.
They entered a seemingly ordinary training room. The moment Izumi stepped inside, the door slammed shut. Light dimmed, replaced by an eerie glow that outlined shifting glyphs on the floor.
> "Another trial," Izumi muttered.
Shadows materialized, but these were different from before. They were sharper, faster, and intelligent, capable of predicting movement. Each shadow struck in perfect rhythm, forcing Izumi to adapt and anticipate. Memories from past loops guided him—every strike, every dodge instinctual, yet controlled.
Jack and Aria watched in awe. "Dude… this is insane. You're dodging… everything!" Jack said, barely keeping his jaw from dropping.
Aria's voice was calm but firm. "He's mastering the shard. But remember, Izumi… the academy isn't the only one testing him."
The trial escalated. Shadows multiplied, each infused with raw mana. The shard flared brightly, golden threads wrapping around Izumi, enhancing his speed, agility, and reaction time. He moved like a blur, deflecting attacks, launching precise counters, and weaving between obstacles seamlessly.
> "Strength without understanding is meaningless," the shard whispered.
Izumi's golden eyes narrowed. "I understand. I must master everything—the shard, my memories, my instincts. Only then can I survive what's coming."
With a final surge of energy, the shadows dissipated, leaving the room silent except for the heavy breathing of the trio. Izumi's hands were golden, glowing faintly with residual shard energy.
Jack muttered, "Okay… I officially hate this place and love it at the same time."
Aria chuckled softly. "This was only the beginning. There are forces watching, even beyond the academy's walls."
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