Saruto entered the hall with Lucien, chatting as usual. Before sitting down, they greeted the rest of their classmates. The princesses of the kingdoms took their places, while Kyle and Rain exchanged their usual banter, before silence fell as the hall door opened.
Grandmaster Xenfus, one of the academy's most powerful instructors, entered. He was a man of imposing presence and a stern voice, radiating an aura of authority. He walked to the center of the hall and said in a serious tone, "Good morning, heirs of the Ten Families… Today's lesson is unlike any previous training. It's a step towards mastering one of the most complex energy martial arts, which has been interrupted by some individuals."
He turned his gaze to Saruto and his friends, who had been arguing about who was the strongest founder. A hushed whisper passed among the students, but Xenfus continued, "Today, you will learn what is known as energy embodiment, or 'Astrazine.'"
Some eyes widened, and expressions of astonishment spread across their faces. The master continued his explanation, slowly raising his right hand. His energy began to condense around him in a vortex of light, before a colossal form suddenly materialized around him—a being that was half-human, half-monster, surrounded by a shield of crystallized energy and gleaming wings that extended into the air.
"This is Astrazine," he said, his voice filled with awe. "An energy formation that materializes from the depths of your soul, relying not only on physical strength but also on the harmony of the soul with inner energy. It is an offensive and defensive skill, a reflection of your true essence."
Then, as he folded his arm and the gigantic form slowly vanished, he continued, "Each of you has your own unique formation, varying according to your element and your understanding of the skill. No one can imitate another's Astrazine, because it is not merely a technique… it is your very self."
A profound silence fell, and astonishment was etched on everyone's faces. Then, with a slight smile, he said, "Now, to the training ground… Let's see what you can do."
Within minutes, the academy's vast courtyard was bustling with activity. The students and heirs were now dressed in their formal training attire. Everyone stood in spaced-out rows, each trying to summon their energy and force it into a physical form, just as the master had done.
But it was no easy feat. Every attempt ended in a small explosion or a collapse of energy. They all tried to execute the skill, but every attempt failed. Even Saruto himself, despite his immense strength, found controlling energy in this way far more difficult than he had anticipated.
Hours passed, sweat pouring from everyone, the sounds of small explosions and groans filling the air. Finally, they all collapsed, exhausted, having failed to execute the skill.
Saruto raised his head and looked at the master, who had been silently observing them from afar. Exhausted, he said, "Master… we need a more detailed explanation. How can we shape this Astrazine precisely?"
Master Zenfus smiled faintly, his hands clasped behind his back. "If you wish to know… you must discover for yourselves," he said.
Then, turning to leave, he added, "This will be your test. You have only one month to master Astrazine. Good luck."
As he disappeared, a moment of silence fell before everyone resumed their efforts, despite their weariness. The heirs' eyes burned with determination. Saruto remained standing in the center of the arena, gazing at his hands, which glowed with violet energy. He murmured softly, "Astrazine, does its execution require all this effort? Or is something missing?"