Kael and Tiberius wasted no time in leaving the path by the river, vanishing into the dense foliage of the forest like shadows swallowed by the night. Tiberius led the way, his movements swift and purposeful as he navigated the labyrinth of trees and underbrush. He glanced back at Kael, his expression serious. "More guards will likely be sent to the town soon," he said, his voice low and urgent. "We need to be well hidden before they arrive."Kael followed closely, his mind racing with a myriad of questions for Tiberius. His curiosity was a whirlwind, each thought tumbling over the next as he tried to grasp the enormity of the situation. Magic, cosmic forces, and hidden castles—all of it seemed so surreal, and he could hardly contain his desire for answers.Tiberius seemed to sense Kael's eagerness, but shook his head firmly. "Now is not the time for questions, Kael," he said, his tone gentle but resolute. "We need to focus on getting as far away from here as possible. Once we've set

Tiberius watched Kael's display of power with a mixture of awe and concern, his eyes reflecting both admiration and apprehension. As Kael swayed on his feet, drained from the force of his magical outburst, Tiberius swiftly moved to his side, his arm wrapping around the boy's shoulders to steady him."Here, sit down," Tiberius murmured, guiding Kael to a nearby fallen log. Kael gratefully sank down onto the makeshift seat, his body trembling from exhaustion as he struggled to regain his breath.Tiberius watched Kael for a moment, his brow furrowed in thought. "That was... an impressive display, Kael," he began cautiously, choosing his words with care. "But it's clear that you still have much to learn about controlling your power."Kael's eyes were downcast, his cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and shame. "I know," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "I didn't mean for it to get so... out of control."Tiberius nodded, his expression softening as he regarded the young m

Master Elara raised her hand, her fingers moving gracefully through the air as she wove her magic. A wind wisp materialized before her, a delicate and swirling form of air and light. She leaned in and whispered a command into the wisp, her voice firm yet gentle. The wisp glowed a brilliant blue before it whooshed off, disappearing down the hallway to carry out its mission.Kael, curiosity piqued, couldn't help but ask, "What was that for, Master Elara?"The headmistress turned to face him, her eyes calculating. "I have summoned all the instructors of the castle to my office," she explained. "It is important for them to know who you are and to witness your Aetheric Magic. Once they have seen your abilities, we will assign you to a dormitory, and your training in magic will begin in earnest tomorrow."Kael nodded, grateful for the explanation. "Thank you, Master Elara," he said, his voice sincere. "Before coming here, the only training I received in Elemental Magic was from my father. H

Kael awoke to the muted sounds of his roommates shuffling about, their morning routines well underway. For a fleeting moment, confusion clouded his mind as he tried to grasp the unfamiliar surroundings. Then, the memories of the previous day's events flooded back, and he understood where he was and why.He swung his legs over the edge of the bed, stifling a yawn, and greeted the others with a warm "Good morning." They responded in kind, their voices friendly and welcoming. Kael followed their lead, washing up and dressing for the day ahead.Together, the boys made their way to the main hall for breakfast. The immense space seemed to defy the limits of the castle's exterior, its grandeur expanding beyond what should have been possible. Long tables filled the hall, accommodating the multitude of students and teachers already engaged in their morning meals. The air hummed with the buzz of conversation and the clatter of cutlery against plates, creating a lively atmosphere.Kael's eyes wi

The lesson progressed, and the teacher moved to the center of the room, her voice commanding the attention of the students. "Now that you've seen the Elemental Weave in action, it's important to understand its practical applications. This technique serves as a shield against magical attacks, capable of withstanding even those from elements your abilities may be naturally weak against."Her gaze fell on Kael, and she beckoned him forward. "Kael, would you demonstrate the strongest Elemental Weave you can create using your nature magic? Make sure it's sturdy enough to protect you."Kael nodded, gathering his focus as he called upon his nature magic. The ground before him shuddered, and thick, heavy vines burst forth, weaving and twisting together to form a dense, wooden shield. The barrier seemed to radiate strength, its intertwined structure appearing almost impenetrable."Well done," the teacher praised him, her eyes appraising the formidable barrier. Without warning, she summoned a l