The morning after the ceremony, the academy was abuzz with whispers of Rynhara's meteoric rise. From her lightning-charged victory in the tournament to the shock of the Voice of the World's announcement, she had become the topic of every conversation.
Rynhara, however, was in no mood for accolades.
"I can't believe they dragged Kaelira onto the stage," she groaned, pacing their dormitory. "She's already unbearable enough as it is."
Kaelira, polishing her Medal of Honorary Contribution, smirked. "Don't be jealous just because I got recognized for carrying your schoolmates injuries during the tournament."
"Carrying who?" Rynhara turned, scowling. "If anyone's carrying anything, it's me carrying your broken dignity every time you trip over your own feet!"
Kaelira gasped dramatically. "How dare you? I'll have you know I am the picture of grace."
At that exact moment, she stumbled over a chair leg and nearly face-planted onto the floor.
"See?" Rynhara quipped, arms crossed. "Picture of grace."
As the two bickered, a knock echoed through the room. Kaelira, still rubbing her knee, opened the door to find a stern-looking messenger clad in the academy's royal colors.
"Lady Rynhara Drakethorne," the messenger announced. "You are summoned to a meeting with the headmaster in his office."
Rynhara blinked, confused. "What now? Didn't I just win the tournament? What more could he want?"
The messenger didn't respond, simply bowing and stepping aside to let her pass.
Kaelira followed eagerly. "Ooh, maybe it's something important! Maybe they're giving you another medal!"
"Or maybe I'm about to get scolded for destroying half the stadium," Rynhara muttered under her breath.
The headmaster's office was a grand chamber filled with ancient tomes, magical artifacts, and a massive, enchanted window overlooking the academy grounds.
"Ah, Lady Drakethorne," the headmaster greeted, gesturing for her to sit. "Do come in."
Rynhara hesitated but took a seat. Kaelira hovered awkwardly by the door.
"Firstly," the headmaster began, "Congratulations on your victory. Your performance was... memorable, to say the least."
"Thank you," Rynhara replied, unsure where this was going.
"However," he continued, steepling his fingers, "your actions have... stirred quite the commotion. The Voice of the World's announcement has drawn attention beyond the academy walls."
"What kind of attention?" Rynhara asked, narrowing her eyes.
"International attention," the headmaster said gravely. "Diplomatic envoys from multiple nations are requesting an audience with you. Some see you as a potential ally; others, as a threat."
Kaelira's eyes widened. "A threat? But she's just a student!"
The headmaster raised an eyebrow. "A student who wields a Final Demolition Strike and has defeated one of the most talented combatants of her generation. People are taking notice."
"So what are you suggesting I do?" Rynhara asked, leaning forward.
"For now, nothing," the headmaster said. "Focus on your studies and your training. But be prepared—your actions will have consequences, both here and beyond these walls."
Rynhara nodded, her mind racing. She had always known her mother's reputation painted a target on her back, but now her own achievements were adding fuel to the fire.
As they left the office, Kaelira glanced at her. "Are you worried?"
"Worried? No," Rynhara said, smirking. "If they want a fight, they know where to find me."
The academy's dining hall was alive with chatter later that day. Rynhara and Kaelira had barely sat down when a loud chime echoed through the room, silencing everyone.
A holographic projection of the headmaster appeared above the central podium.
"Students," his voice boomed, "I am pleased to announce the launch of the Academy's newest initiative: the Grand Legacy Trials."
Excited murmurs broke out across the room.
"These trials will test the strength, intelligence, and character of our students in ways never before attempted," the headmaster continued. "Participation is optional but highly encouraged. The first trial will commence in one month. Prepare yourselves."
The projection faded, leaving the room buzzing with speculation.
"What do you think these trials are about?" Kaelira asked, looking intrigued.
"Does it matter?" Rynhara said, her eyes gleaming. "Whatever they throw at us, I'll crush it."
That evening, Rynhara found herself in her mother's private chambers. Tiamora sipped her tea with an unsettling calmness, her gaze fixed on her daughter.
"You seem... unbothered," Tiamora said, breaking the silence.
"Should I be?" Rynhara replied, crossing her arms.
"Perhaps," Tiamora said, setting down her cup. "The Grand Legacy Trials are no ordinary tests. They are designed to separate the extraordinary from the exceptional. If you fail..."
"I won't," Rynhara interrupted, her voice firm.
Tiamora chuckled softly. "Ah, such confidence. It's both your greatest strength and your greatest weakness."
Rynhara rolled her eyes. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"
"Immensely," Tiamora said with a wicked grin.
As the moon rose high over the castle, Rynhara stared out her window, determination burning in her chest. The trials loomed ahead, and with them, new challenges and opportunities.
"I won't lose," she whispered to herself. "Not to anyone."