Sage Academy – The Grand Hall
The Sage Academy, the most prestigious institution in the kingdom, stood as a testament to the power of sword mages. It was a sprawling fortress of ivory and sapphire, its towering spires reaching toward the sky like blades piercing the heavens. Ancient inscriptions, imbued with magic, pulsed faintly along the academy's walls, a reminder of the generations of warriors who had trained here.
Beyond the entrance gates, vast training fields stretched as far as the eye could see, where students honed their swordsmanship and magic under the watchful eyes of instructors. The academy grounds housed The Arcane Library, filled with tomes on elemental magic, combat techniques, and forgotten legends. There was also The Arena, where duels and trials determined the strength of those who aspired to be sword mages.
At the heart of the academy lay the Grand Hall, a magnificent chamber lined with banners representing the four Great Elements—Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth. Chandeliers crafted from crystallized mana hovered above, glowing softly, illuminating the hall in an ethereal light. The floor, made of polished obsidian, reflected the hundreds of students gathered within.
Arthur, Felix, and Ronan stood among them, their eyes scanning their new home. The air buzzed with anticipation. Conversations filled the space, excitement and nervousness mixing together.
Then—creak.
The massive doors swung open, and a young man with sharp features strode in. His navy-blue uniform bore the emblem of the Sword Mage Order, marking him as one of the academy's overseers.
Silence fell instantly.
"Welcome to Sage Academy," he announced, his voice clear and commanding.
Arthur's heart pounded. It's finally happening.
"As you all know, Sage Academy trains young sword mages, molding them into the finest warriors of the kingdom," the man continued. "For the next years of your life, you will undergo rigorous training—physically, mentally, and magically. You will learn to wield your swords as extensions of yourselves, and you will master the arcane arts to enhance your combat prowess."
He gestured toward the massive banners hanging from the ceiling.
"The academy specializes in four primary teachings—Elemental Combat, Blade Mastery, Mana Manipulation, and Tactical Warfare. Each student will be tested in these disciplines to determine their affinity and strength."
Arthur absorbed every word. Elemental Combat… Blade Mastery… Tactical Warfare… This was a far cry from the simple training he had received before.
"Your uniforms have already been placed in your rooms, and now, room assignments will be given," the man continued.
A list materialized in his hands, glowing faintly with magic.
"The boys' quarters will be known as Sapphire Hall. Room One: Arthur and Riven Stormbane."
Arthur stiffened. Riven? His mind flashed back to their clash at the trials—the cold, calculating words Riven had spoken to him. He exhaled, forcing himself to remain composed.
Spotting Riven among the students, Arthur approached. "Looks like we're roommates. Hope we get along."
He braced for hostility, expecting something akin to Leo's arrogance.
Instead, Riven extended his hand. "Of course."
Arthur blinked in surprise. He's… different from what I expected.
The announcements continued.
"Room Two: Felix Arden and Ronan Velst."
Felix and Ronan exchanged grins, bumping fists.
"Room Three: Leo Ironheart and Damon Cresswell."
Arthur's eyes darkened slightly. Leo…
"Room Four: Darius Voss and Kaelius Valeheart."
"Room Five: Gareth Vortigen and Orion Lysander."
"Room Six: Cedric Vayne and Edlias Ravenshade."
The list went on, but Arthur's mind was already racing.
Soon, the girls' dormitory—Rose Hall—was called.
"Room One: Seraphina Luminara and Lyra Everhart."
"Room Two: Callista Vortigen and Selene Vael."
After the final name, the man gave his closing instructions.
"Classes begin tomorrow. For today, settle into your rooms and familiarize yourselves with the academy. Welcome to the start of your journey."
With that, he turned and left.
The students split into their respective halls, excitement and uncertainty lingering in the air.
Arthur, Felix, and Ronan walked together until they reached Room One.
Arthur smirked. "See you guys tomorrow."
Felix grinned. "Try not to freeze your roommate overnight."
Arthur rolled his eyes before stepping inside.
---
Sapphire Hall – Room One
Arthur entered, only to find that Riven was already inside, neatly unpacking his belongings.
Arthur frowned. When did he even get here?
"Welcome," Riven said, offering a small smile.
Arthur hesitated. He really doesn't act like the same guy from the trials.
His gaze shifted to the bed across from Riven's. His uniform—a crisp white jacket with blue accents—was laid out for him. He lifted it, running his fingers over the fine stitching.
"Hyorinmaru, what do you think?"
The small ice dragon scoffed. "Stop acting like a child and arrange your things."
Arthur sighed. "You're no fun."
Setting the uniform aside, he started unpacking.
As he worked, he glanced at Riven.
"So… why do you want to become a sword mage?" Arthur asked.
For a moment, Riven was silent. Arthur wondered if he had asked something too personal.
Then, Riven met his gaze, his expression firm. "To become the Sage King."
Arthur tilted his head. "Sage King?"
Riven's brow arched. "You don't know?"
Arthur scratched the back of his head, feigning ignorance. How would I? This isn't my world.
"The Sage King is the strongest sword mage in the kingdom," Riven explained. "He is the guardian of the realm, the protector of the royal household. He was supposed to oversee the trials, but for some reason, he wasn't there."
Arthur's eyes widened. The strongest sword mage…
His fists clenched.
If I become the Sage King… maybe Dad will finally acknowledge me.
He shot to his feet. "I've decided! I'm gonna be the next Sage King!"
Riven blinked—then chuckled.
Arthur frowned. "What's so funny?"
Riven smirked. "You, the Sage King? Then that makes you my rival. I won't lose to you."
Arthur grinned. "Me neither."
Their hands met in a firm shake.
The rivalry had begun.
---
Rose Hall – Seraphina's Room
Seraphina lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling.
Her roommate had introduced herself, everything seemed normal—but something wasn't right.
That feeling… when I passed Arthur in the arena.
She furrowed her brows.
"What was that?" she whispered.
No matter how hard she thought about it, she couldn't shake the strange sensation that had run through her.
She sighed, rolling onto her side.
I'll figure it out later.
With that, she closed her eyes, letting sleep take her.
---
The Journey Begins
Night fell over Sage Academy.
The students of Sapphire Hall and Rose Hall drifted into sleep, unaware of the trials and battles that awaited them.
And for Arthur… his path was clear.
He would become the Sage King.
No matter what it took.