The Next Day
The sun was rising, casting a golden hue over the academy grounds. One by one, students began waking up and preparing for class. James, Silvia, and Kayle got ready and met at the entrance of the academy. Together, they walked across the front yard.
With time to spare before classes began, they made their way to the garden located behind the academy.
The garden was serene—lush green grass trimmed neatly, vibrant flowers blooming in every direction. Tables were scattered across the space for students to sit, and in the center stood a round sitting area made of polished white marble, gleaming under the morning sunlight.
This place wasn't just known for its beauty. It was also a popular spot for couples. Students often came early to watch the sunrise, enjoy the peace, forget about their worries and sometimes even confess their feelings. It had earned a quiet reputation as a place where many young hearts found courage.
As the trio entered the garden, they saw students scattered across the area—some lying on the grass, others chatting in groups, a few even climbing trees and laughing.
"Gosh... this place is packed," Silvia said, surprised.
"Yeah, looks like everyone's enjoying themselves," James added with a smile, his eyes sparkling with delight.
"Look over there—that must be the famous spot. It's shining, just like everyone says... and there's a couple of students sitting there," Silvia pointed.
"'Couple of students'? They're all couples," James grinned teasingly.
Silvia raised an eyebrow. "How do you know they're couples? They could be friends too."
James chuckled, mimicking an old man's voice. "Ah, my dear little sister, you're so inexperienced. Just like you and Kayle are a couple—"
Before he could finish, James quickly covered his face and stomach, bracing for Silvia's usual punch. But no hit came. Instead, she was blushing while still looking at the seated students.
"Eh? What's happening? Is she really my sister?" James asked, genuinely shocked.
"I dunno," Kayle replied, watching her curiously.
Silvia stood frozen, watching the students laugh and smile. For a moment, she wasn't in a garden—she was inside a dream. Having grown up in a quiet countryside village and facing dangers many her age never imagined, this peaceful, vibrant place felt unreal. Like something out of a fairy tale that had finally come true.
Without warning, she grabbed both James and Kayle's hands and took off running.
"Hey—why are we running?" James called out.
"What's going on, Silvia?" Kayle asked, confused.
They stopped at a table under a tree where a group of students had just vacated. Silvia quickly sat down and pulled them to sit beside her.
"Oh, thank goodness I saw them leaving. I ran before anyone else could take it!" she said, grinning.
James and Kayle exchanged a look.
"Is she crazy...?" they both thought at the same time.
Silvia looked around the garden again, then turned to them with a soft, emotional smile.
"This place... it feels like a dream I've had since childhood. Do you remember, James? When merchants used to pass through our village and show us pictures of the capital? I was mesmerized. I never thought I'd actually be here... in the capital, in the academy everyone talks about. I just... I don't want this moment to end. I want to live like this—with you two—forever."
Tears formed in her eyes, not from sorrow, but from pure happiness.
James gently patted her head. "Of course I remember. You always asked if we'd ever come here. Every time a merchant or mercenary passed through, you'd ask about the academy. I'll never forget how your eyes lit up."
"H-Hey! I'm not a kid—stop patting my head!" Silvia protested, wiping her eyes.
Kayle stood up with a soft smile. "We should go. Class is about to start."
"Already? I wanted to sit here a little longer..."
"We'll come early tomorrow. I promise."
"Okay then. Let's go!"
---
In the Classroom
"Hi, Silvia. Good morning!" Jack greeted cheerfully.
"Good morning, Jack," Silvia replied.
"Good morning, Silvia. Kayle," Rames said, approaching them.
"Good morning," they both responded.
Jack stared at Rames suspiciously. "What's up with you?"
"What do you mean?" Rames asked.
"You're acting weird. It's not like you to greet people so nicely."
Rames laughed. "I just take a little time to get comfortable in new places."
Jack narrowed his eyes but looked away—only to realize that Silvia and Kayle had already moved to their seats.
"Ah, Silvia—would you join me for lunch today?" Jack called after her.
"Ah... sorry, I already planned to eat with Kayle and my brother," Silvia replied.
"Oh... Then, can I join you guys?"
"Well... if you want, sure."
"Then I'd like to join too," Rames added.
"Why do you want to come? Don't you usually eat with your own group?" Jack asked, irritated.
"Can't I try to be friends with Silvia? Why are you acting like you get to decide for her?" Rames said with a calm smile.
Silvia raised her hands to calm them. "Okay, okay, let's all have lunch together. My brother will be happy to meet new friends too. Let's just get to know each other."
"See? It's settled." Rames smirked.
"You better not try anything funny," Jack warned.
"What are you talking about?" Rames said innocently, though a subtle smile played on his lips.
Just then, Professor Orlando walked into the classroom, and the chatter died down.
Professor Orlando stepped into the classroom and stood before the students. His expression was unusually tense, and his brows were slightly raised, hinting at the seriousness of what he was about to say. After taking a calm breath, he began:
"Last night, Sara Vaviniya was found unconscious near the path to the Special Dormitories. Judging by the aftermath at the scene, it appeared to be the result of a mana explosion."
Gasps and murmurs spread through the classroom. The term mana explosion wasn't something students heard every day—its implications were dangerous, often deadly. Everyone knew what such an event meant, and how volatile mana could become when it spiraled out of control.
Observing their shocked expressions, Orlando realized none of the students present had likely witnessed it firsthand. He continued:
"We're not entirely sure what she was doing there or why she was casting magic in that area. Fortunately, Silvia and Kayle found her in time and rushed her to the infirmary. There's no need for concern—Sara only lost consciousness and suffered a few minor injuries."
He paused, allowing the information to settle in.
"But let me make this very clear: fighting or using offensive magic within the academy grounds is strictly forbidden. Any violation of this rule will result in disciplinary action. We value your safety, and reckless behavior will not be tolerated. Am I understood?"
Kayle sat in silence, his expression calm but his thoughts sharper than ever.
"Looks like Professor Olivia cleaned up the scene. She was watching us during the fight with Sara… probably thought she had hidden her presence well. Too bad for her—I sensed her the moment she arrived. Still, I left the cleanup for her. A fair trade, I suppose."
Professor Orlando moved toward the board and gestured with his hand. A faint glow of mana responded to him, lighting up a glowing diagram of the Elemental Wheel behind him.
"Now, back to our lesson. As you all know, this class is focused on Elemental Theory and Manipulation. In this world, there are five primary elements: Fire, Water, Wind, Lightning, and Earth. These elements serve as the foundation of all elemental magic."
He pointed to various glowing sections of the diagram as he spoke.
"From these primary elements, composite elements can be formed. For example, Ice is created by combining Water and Wind. Lava results from the fusion of Fire and Earth. Even rare elements like Slime emerge from combinations—Water and Earth in this case. These hybrid elements require greater skill to control due to their dual-natured mana structure."
The students listened with rapt attention.
"In this course, we will cover three major aspects:
1. Magical Properties – how each element behaves, reacts, and interacts with its environment.
2. Combat Techniques – strategies for using elemental magic in battle, including offense, defense, and terrain adaptation.
3. Elemental Affinity – the innate connection between a mage and an element. Affinity influences how naturally you can control an element, your resistance to it, and how far you can evolve its usage."
He paused and looked around the class, then asked:
"So, let's start with a question—what do you all understand by the term elemental affinity?"
A girl with soft baby pink hair and matching eyes raised her hand. She was Latty Lonen, ranked 5th in the entrance examination and known throughout the academy not only for her talent but also as the younger sister of Professor Lucy, the renowned enchantment master.
"Yes, Latty?" Professor Orlando acknowledged her with a nod.
"Sir, elemental affinity refers to a mage's innate connection or natural synchronization with a specific element. Every mage has their own affinity, which allows them to control that element more efficiently," Latty explained confidently.
Orlando smiled. "Excellent answer. As expected from Professor Lucy's sister."
He turned to the rest of the class. "Indeed, every mage is born with a unique affinity to one or more elements. This natural connection enhances their casting speed, control, and magical output. Some may bond with fire, some with water, some with wind. The stronger the affinity, the more naturally the element responds to the mage's will."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing.
"But remember this—affinity alone is not everything. To truly elevate your elemental power, you must push beyond your limits. When a mage forms six mana circles in their heart, they reach a major bottleneck. To break past that and form the seventh circle, they must undergo a breakthrough. This breakthrough allows the mage to unlock the true potential of their elemental affinity."
He paced slowly across the classroom.
"For example, when a lightning-type mage breaks through to the seventh circle, their lightning can evolve into thunder—a higher form with deeper resonance and power. Such transformations don't just increase strength—they redefine how the element behaves for the caster."
Whispers rippled through the class.
"This is why reaching the seventh circle is a monumental achievement. Most mages will never cross the wall of the sixth circle. But those who do… are remembered."
He turned, his eyes scanning the class.
"And reaching the eighth circle is considered legendary. Only eight individuals in the entire world have accomplished this feat. One of them is none other than our own Headmaster—Elizabeth Vancy, known throughout the continents as The Ice Sage."
A girl with blonde hair and bright green eyes raised her hand next. She was Mariya Hans, ranked 7th, known for her keen observations.
"Sir," she began, "can someone develop new elemental affinities over time? Or gain more than one naturally?"
"Excellent question," Orlando replied. "No, you cannot develop a new elemental affinity naturally. Your affinity is part of your essence from birth. However, there are ways to artificially expand your affinity."
He lifted a finger.
"One way is through magical artifacts that resonate with a particular element. Another is through contracts with elemental spirits, who share their essence with you. But keep in mind—these methods don't change your natural affinity. They simply let you wield elements you wouldn't normally control."
The students leaned forward as he continued.
"Some rare individuals are born with more than one elemental affinity. Again, our Headmaster is a prime example—she was born with affinity to both water and wind, allowing her to wield the composed element ice at an unimaginable level. But when she broke through the seventh circle, her ice evolved into frost, a more refined and destructive form. That's why she is revered as the Ice Sage."
He walked back to the center of the classroom.
"At the seventh circle, your element evolves into what we call a Low-Level Special Element. At the eighth, it becomes Mid-Level, and should someone ever reach the ninth circle, they would unlock a High-Level Element—something no mage has achieved in the last five hundred years."
Rames, who sat quietly at the back—raised his hand.
"Professor, is it possible for someone to have more than two affinities?"
Orlando gave a slow nod. "Yes. It's incredibly rare, but it is possible to be born with three or even more affinities. However—" his tone shifted slightly "—the more affinities you possess, the harder it becomes to advance."
He looked around the room, his voice growing firm.
"Why? Because each element you're connected to must be nurtured equally if you wish to evolve. Having multiple affinities splits your focus and energy. That's why even prodigies with three affinities often remain stuck at the sixth circle."
He placed his hands behind his back, concluding, "Elemental affinity is both a gift and a burden. How far you go with it depends on your discipline, your insight… and your will to break through the impossible."
As the class continued with Professor Orlando's lecture, on the other side of the academy, inside the quiet infirmary—
Sara, lying under soft white sheets, stirred. Her eyes fluttered open, blinking against the pale morning light that seeped through the tall windows.
"Uhh... ugh… Wh-what happened? Why am I... lying on a bed?" she muttered, her voice hoarse and confused.
She sat up slowly, holding her head. Her memory was hazy—but then, it hit her.
Flashes of the fight. Silvia's spell. The explosion. Darkness.
"That commoner… that filthy commoner defeated me?" she whispered, her voice shaking in disbelief. "I'm the top mage of the Vaviniya family… She was nowhere near my level. It must've been because of that silver-haired bastard… Yeah. It was both of them. They ganged up on me. That's the only reason they could've stood a chance. In a one-on-one, I'd destroy them."
Her eyes burned with rage.
"I swear… I'll bury them both. I'll make them regret ever crossing me—"
"Oh? Rather than reflecting on the mess you made, you're already thinking about revenge?" came a cold, sharp voice from the corner of the room.
Sara's eyes snapped toward the sound.
Standing near the window, arms crossed and gaze like ice, was Olivia. The tension in the room thickened.
Sara flinched.
She had forgotten—Olivia had witnessed it. She had heard everything. The words she'd just said… her own mouth had confessed enough to get her expelled, or worse.
"You look nervous," Olivia said, stepping closer, her boots tapping against the polished floor. "Not only did you violate academy rules by using magic to attack fellow students, but now you're plotting revenge? You're not even worried about the consequences?"
Sara tried to compose herself. "Wh-what do you mean by 'if people find out'? Are you... going to report me?"
"You should be thankful," Olivia said, her voice sharp like broken glass. "If your family didn't hold favor with me, I would have had you thrown behind bars already. The only reason you're still breathing fresh air is because Kayle and Silvia chose not to report you. And believe me—after hearing your little speech just now? That was generous of them."
Olivia's eyes narrowed as she placed a firm hand on Sara's shoulder.
"So listen carefully, Princess. Drop your spoiled attitude. Stay in your lane. Step out of it again—and next time, I won't be so merciful."
Sara stiffened. "…Yes, ma'am," she muttered, barely hiding the fear behind her forced calm.
"Good." Olivia leaned in closer, her voice a whisper. "Next time, I'll reduce you to ash and call it a mana explosion."
With that, she turned and walked out of the infirmary, leaving behind a stunned silence.
Sara sat frozen for a moment—then clenched her fists beneath the blanket.
"That bitch… What does she think she is?" she growled under her breath. "I'm Sara Vaviniya. I won't let this slide."
But then, her expression shifted.
"…Still, for now, I need to lay low. Clean up this mess."
Her gaze drifted toward the window, lost in dark thoughts.
"Silvia... she cares about that boy—Kayle. She was trying to protect him. I saw it. Hmph. He's actually quite handsome... definitely better than those arrogant noble boys. And I'm not any less attractive than Silvia. In fact, I'm better."
A twisted smile curled on her lips.
"Let's see, Silvia. Let's see how long you can smile… when I make your boy mine."
Just like that, the day came to an end in the quiet of the personal dormitories.
Inside Kayle's dorm, the soft golden hue of evening light spilled through the wide windows. The trio—Kayle, James, and Silvia—sat together in the cozy living room, freshly washed up and relaxed after the long day.
Kayle—Aeon—was sitting on the sofa, seemingly present, but his gaze was distant, lost in thought.
> "Right now, the story is drifting far from the main plotline… Ash is already 22 and just graduated from the Academy two months ago. By now, he's probably attending banquets in the imperial palace, rubbing shoulders with nobles. Soon, he'll begin his journey across the empire. Three years of wandering, mastering the Atheliya family's unmatched swordsmanship technique… The entire empire was stunned when he returned. Even his mother began to see him as a threat, a nail in her throat. That's when she started plotting against him."
> "In the original story, during our final year at the Academy, Ash comes back to visit. He becomes a guest instructor, handpicking talents for the royal army. Kayle was originally destined to become a knight with James, but I changed that path—because Silvia's future depends on it. She and Ash were meant to become friends, and it was Ash who recommended her to the Mage Tower after graduation."
> "If I let things follow the book, the real story doesn't begin for another three years... and ends in five. That gives me eight years. Eight years in this world to prepare."
He exhaled quietly, deep in strategy, his eyes flickering with unspoken resolve.
Suddenly, a strong hand yanked him out of his thoughts—literally.
"Yo!" James said, shaking his shoulder playfully. "There you go again, zoning out like you're trying to remember if you left the stove on in a past life."
Kayle blinked and looked up at him, though he'd sensed James approaching the entire time. He let it happen—better to blend in.
James grinned. "Be honest, man. You were thinking about a girl, weren't you? Spill it. Any fairies in your department caught your eye yet?"
Kayle gave a calm smile. "No. Nothing like that."
James leaned back with an exaggerated sigh. "Man, hard to believe. You're the hot topic in the knight department. Every guy's either jealous or obsessed. Even the seniors are asking about you."
Kayle raised an eyebrow. "What did you tell them?"
James laughed, dramatically throwing his arms up. "What could I say? I told them the truth—'Kayle is pure and single, untouched like a holy artifact!'"
Kayle couldn't help but chuckle. His laughter, quiet and restrained, only made James laugh harder.
Across from them, Silvia was watching with narrowed eyes and crossed arms. Her gaze lingered on Kayle, unreadable.
James smirked when he noticed.
"Ohhh my dear sister," he said in a teasing tone. "You're gonna have a hard time keeping all those knight department girls off your darling."
Silvia gave a huff and looked away. "Hmph. I don't care about them. Like I said—I know what I am."
James grinned and cut her off mid-sentence, pressing a hand to his chest. "I know... in his heart, you already own the throne."
Silvia's eyes widened slightly—then her cheeks turned pink. Without a word, she stood up, walked over, and delivered a swift kick to James's stomach.
"Oof!" he groaned, doubling over with exaggerated pain.
"I'm going to the garden," Silvia muttered, brushing a strand of hair from her face and walking off before either of them could see her smile.
Kayle watched her go, the corner of his lips curling ever so slightly.
James, still holding his stomach, muttered, "Worth it".
The Next Morning
Just like that, the next day arrived.
James, Silvia, and Kayle woke early and headed out to the Academy's garden. They wanted to claim their favorite spot—the marble seating area—before the other students arrived.
They reached just in time. The first rays of sunlight stretched across the sky, bathing the garden in soft gold. The air was crisp, the world still, and the view—simply breathtaking.
"Wow," Silvia whispered, eyes wide. "I didn't know sunrises could be this beautiful."
"Yeah," James nodded. "It's different from our village. Feels… peaceful."
"You're right," Kayle said quietly.
James smirked. "Well, well, look who knows how to speak."
"Shh. Quiet down, brother," Silvia said, swatting James's arm. "Kayle doesn't waste words like you do."
James grinned. "Sure, sure. You know him better than I do, right?"
"Both of you, quiet," Kayle said with a small smile. "Just enjoy the view."
They sat together in silence, soaking in the moment. An hour passed like a breeze. When the Academy bells rang, they left for class.
---
In the Classroom
As soon as Silvia entered, Jack rushed toward her.
"Good morning, Silvia!" he said brightly.
"Good morning, both of you," Rames added, walking up behind them.
"Hi. Morning, guys," Silvia replied politely.
Jack frowned slightly as he noticed Rames standing a little too close for comfort.
Trying to regain control, he asked, "Hey Silvia, what would you like for lunch today? My treat."
Before she could reply, Rames chimed in, grinning, "Oh? You're treating us? I'll have some meat and grape juice, thanks."
Jack scowled. "Who's treating you, you jerk? Don't you have your own money?"
"Well, I do, but you said it's your treat. Why not help me save a little?"
Jack snapped, "I didn't mean for you!"
"So... are you saying Silvia can't afford the cafeteria, but you'll treat her?"
Jack blinked. "That's not what I meant!"
"Isn't it though?" Rames shrugged. "Sounds like it to me."
"Y-You—!"
"Enough," Silvia said sharply. "I have free meal coupons. I don't need a treat from anyone. But thanks anyway, Jack."
Jack glared at Rames. "He's just trying to make me look bad!"
Just then, Sara walked into the classroom. The room went quiet as she strode in like nothing had happened, sitting right behind Kayle and Silvia.
Latty approached her immediately.
"Sara! Are you okay? We heard you were caught in a mana explosion."
Sara gave her a gentle smile. "Oh, nothing serious. I was just experimenting with magic and lost control."
"Oh… well, I'm glad you're alright," Latty said with relief.
"Thank you for your concern," Sara replied sweetly.
Silvia's jaw clenched as she overheard. She knew Sara was lying to cover up her actions. Kayle gently took her hand to calm her. Silvia looked at him and smiled.
Sara, watching the exchange, smiled too—but hers was cold and venomous.
---
One Month Later
Time passed.
The incident with Sara faded from everyone's memory. She maintained her perfect mask—calm, polite, composed. She surrounded herself with friends, studied diligently, and rebuilt her image.
> "It's been a month. Everything's settled. Now… I can begin."
"I've kept myself composed since that incident. Silvia and Kayle—they've dropped their guard. Focused on their studies. But the first semester test is coming... and that's when I'll make my move."
"Silvia, you're always clinging to him. Never letting him out of your sight. But in the test, you'll be forced to let go. Let's see what you do then."
Sara's eyes glinted with anticipation.
---
Test Week Begins
The day of the first semester exams arrived. Just like the entrance exams, they were divided into written and practical components. But this time, the practical test would include duels between students.
James, Silvia, and Kayle walked to class together.
"Let's go!" Silvia urged. "Kayle, we'll be late. And you—" she looked at her brother, "—you better not slack off like during the entrance exam."
"Yeah, yeah," James grinned. "I'm ready this time."
They entered the classroom. Within moments, Kayle—Aeon—had already finished the written test, his mind far ahead of the present.
> "It has started."
"The Broken Arena Incident... it happens during the practical test. Two second-year students will lose control while summoning high-ranking spirits. Chaos will erupt. The arena will be destroyed, and dozens of lives will be at risk."
"Professor Mark will be present. He'll protect the students, but it'll be Silvia, Latty, Mariya, and Rames who step up to help him fight the spirits."
"Most of the second-years will run. Only the brave will remain."
"But there's more to this than what happens in the open. Behind the scenes... something deeper stirs."
"And I—I'm itching to stretch my muscles."
He looked at his hand, clenching it tightly.
> "Let the games begin."