A year had passed since Jess and Troy arrived in this new world, a realm where their love could flourish without the shadows of prejudice. They immersed themselves in learning, mastering subjects like History, Mathematics, Science, English, Economics, and Chemistry. Their dedication was unwavering, driven by the freedom to love openly and the desire to understand this complex world.
Their manners, deeply ingrained from their 18th-century upbringing, remained intact. They still kept their elbows off the table while eating and addressed elders with formal respect. Many who met them initially mistook them for siblings, a misconception they had grown accustomed to.
Their mentors, the best in their respective fields, were astounded by their rapid progress. Troy, under the tutelage of Master Kael, displayed an innate proficiency with all weapons, his movements fluid and instinctual. Jess, guided by Archmage Elira, wielded mid-tier magic with ease, her spells resonating with emotional depth.
Their abilities were not just impressive; they were extraordinary. Troy's skill, "The Sword of the Evernal Vow," allowed every blade he touched to respond to him, each strike binding his soul to Jess's protection. He was immune to mind control and would not die unless she did. Jess's title, "The Magus of Primal Hearts," granted her mastery over six elemental cores: Ice, Lava, Terra, Shock, Radiant, and Umbral. Her magic was fueled by emotion, surging when Troy was in danger. She, too, was immune to mind control.
Their bond was profound, a harmonious blend of love and power. They complemented each other, their strengths and vulnerabilities intertwined.
Now, the time had come for them to attend the prestigious England's Star Academy, a pinnacle institution for Starborn individuals. As they sat in the backseat of a sleek, black vehicle, Rubin, the Headmaster's assistant, turned to them with a smile.
"Before you go," Rubin said, handing them two small boxes, "the Headmaster wanted you to have these. It's customary for parents to give their children a gift upon entering the Academy. Consider this a token from him."
Jess opened her box to reveal a pair of earrings, each adorned with a gray gem that shimmered like storm clouds. A system notification appeared: Fallen Angel's Last Tears – Boosts magic power by 50% when both are worn. The gems complemented her stormy gray eyes perfectly.
Troy's box contained a sleek, metallic object. As he touched it, it transformed into a blade, then a spear, then a bow, before settling into the form of a dagger. Another notification appeared: Aether – A weapon that adapts to the user's needs, from rapiers to greatswords. Troy chose to keep it as a knife for now.
"Thank you, Rubin," Jess said, her eyes shining.
"Please convey our gratitude to the Headmaster," Troy added.
"Of course," Rubin replied, watching them step out of the car and walk towards the Academy gates.
As the vehicle pulled away, Rubin glanced at his Star-Watch, which projected a hologram of Headmaster Archie Jaipur.
"What lovely kids," Archie said, his voice filled with warmth. "They'll do great, I know it."
"You're a crazy man," Rubin replied, a smile tugging at his lips.
"I know," Archie chuckled. "But I want those kids at the top, earning their place. We both know they barely met the standard."
Rubin suppressed a grimace, recalling Jess's fireball that had obliterated a titanium target during training. You call blasting titanium with a fireball standard? he thought, but said nothing.
"They'll do something alright..." Rubin murmured, watching the Academy fade into the distance.