Rise Of The Elemental Hero

Promotion Ceremony

It was a bright, cheerful day at the training grounds of Serevaal, a day that brimmed with excitement and pride. The air smelled of blooming petalvine flowers, which grew along the arched stone pathways.

Crystal-clear water fountains shot streams of shimmering liquid high into the air, their gentle splashes adding a melody to the bustling atmosphere. Silver and blue banners hung elegantly between the tall trees that surrounded the training grounds.

Today was no ordinary day. It was the Promotion Ceremony, where students were awarded badges to signify their progress in their training. Each badge represented a new milestone and was a testament to the hard work, determination, and growth of the students. Shiro and Mei stood among them, Shiro's heart beating faster than usual. They were about to be promoted to the NOVICE level—a step forward in Shiro's journey.

The center of attention was a raised podium, carved from white marble and adorned with intricate etchings of the four elements.

Standing tall on it was Protector Alaric, his commanding presence radiating through the gathering. All the Protectors were present, dressed in ceremonial robes that symbolized their mastery of their respective elements.

"Students of Serevaal," Alaric began, his voice resonating across the grounds, "today is a day of celebration, of growth, and of hope. Each one of you carry a spark within you—a spark that connects you to the lifeblood of Serevaal. This badge is not merely a token. It is a reminder of what you’ve achieved and a call to rise to greater challenges ahead."

He paused, his eyes scanning the young faces before him. "Serevaal thrives because of those who believe in its future. You, the future Protectors, Helpers, Instructors of this world, are the hope that will ensure our land remains a sanctuary of unity and strength. Wear your badge with pride, for it symbolizes your journey, your struggles, and your victories."

As his speech concluded, the students erupted into applause, their cheers filling the air. The Protectors nodded approvingly as Alaric stepped back, his eyes bright with encouragement. Shiro clapped along with the rest, his excitement bubbling over.

He looked over to Korin who was with Yuki as their faces were filled with smiles from the stands.

Then came the highlight of the event—the giving of the badges. One by one, the students were called forward. Each stepped up to the podium, received their badge, and returned to the crowd, their faces lit with joy.

When Shiro’s name was called, he took a deep breath and stepped forward. The eyes of his peers and Protectors followed him as he ascended the steps to the podium. Protector Alaric handed him the badge, its silver emblem gleaming in the light.

"Shiro," Alaric said with a rare smile, "this is your next step. Carry it with pride and show Serevaal what you’re made of."

Shiro nodded, his hands trembling slightly as he held the badge. He turned to the crowd, who applauded warmly. For a moment, he felt the weight of both his potential and the path ahead, but he also felt something else—a glimmer of hope.

As the ceremony continued, Shiro pinned the badge to his tunic, letting the cheers remind him of the journey yet to come.

The cheerful atmosphere at the training grounds was still lingering as students dispersed to celebrate their promotions. Shiro walked briskly through the crowded space. He approached Korin who was talking to some Frids around.

“Korin,” Shiro called out, catching his attention. “Have you seen Yuki? I saw both of you here if I remember correctly.”

“Yeah, he went off somewhere for some space…..” He emphasized on the word ‘space’. “....said he needed a break.” He gestured toward the quieter section of the school grounds.

Shiro nodded in thanks and made his way there. The bustling noises of the main grounds faded as he reached the quieter area. This part of the school was tucked away and serene, lined with tall trees that provided plenty of shade. A fountain was at the center, its crystal-clear water trickling down in soft, soothing tones. Only a handful of students lingered there, most keeping to themselves.

And there, on one of the benches, sat Yuki. He was hunched slightly, holding a cup of drink, his expression distant.

“ You’ve been here. I was looking for you,” Shiro said, approaching with a small smile.

Yuki’s head lifted slowly, his gaze meeting Shiro’s. “Oh... just needed some air,” he replied, his voice even. He raised his cup and took a small sip. “Congrats on your badge, by the way.”

“Thanks.” Shiro sat down on the edge of the bench beside him, his smile fading slightly. “You seem... distracted. Is something bothering you?”

Yuki’s eyes drifted back to the ground. “Maybe. Maybe not. There’s just... a lot on my mind,” he said, his tone guarded.

Shiro studied him for a moment. “Like what?” he pressed gently.

“Nothing important,” Yuki replied quickly, but the edge in his voice betrayed him.

Shiro frowned. “Doesn’t sound like nothing.”

“It’s nothing serious, okay?” Yuki snapped, his tone sharp. He didn’t raise his voice, but the irritation was evident.

Shiro blinked, taken aback by the sudden outburst. He hesitated before speaking, his tone softer now. “Alright,” he said, standing up. “I’ll leave you to it. Korin and I are heading to the council quarters…if you are going to look for us.”

Without waiting for a response, Shiro turned and walked away. His shoulders were a bit tense, but he didn’t look back.

Yuki watched him go, his heart sinking. He felt the urge to call Shiro back, to say something, anything—but the words wouldn’t come. He clenched his fists, frustration bubbling up inside him.

The silence that followed was deafening. Yuki clenched his fists, frustration bubbling inside him. He hated how he’d reacted.

His thoughts circled back to everything that was making him feel this way. The ruined chance at the Memory Blossom, Protector Rexar’s strange behavior and the withering of the flower. It all weighed on him, the fact he wasn't brave enough to tell anyone. He didn't want to make assumptions about it.