The blare of the horn echoed across the training grounds, signaling all first-year students to assemble. After a few days of classroom learning, today marked the beginning of their first field training.
Instructor Tharis stood at the front, flanked by several other training masters. He swept his gaze across the rows of students standing silently in formation before speaking.
"Before we begin field training, the academy will assess each of your foundational skills. Today, we will explain the system of 'Cores' and 'Weapons' in detail to ensure everyone has a clear understanding."
He continued:
"Weapons are categorized by rarity—Common, Rare, Epic, Legendary, and Mythic. Each student's weapon is awakened at the age of twelve. The development of a weapon is divided into four stages.Stage 0: the weapon has just been awakened.Stage 1: the user has learned the basics of how to wield it.Stage 2: the weapon manifests its full capabilities. Those who reach this stage can officially name and register their weapon.Stage 3: a mythical stage that has never been attained—it is said that weapons at this level respond to the owner's will and possess the power to alter fate itself."
He paused briefly before adding,"Weapon rarity does not directly determine strength, but it correlates with the depth of the wielder's mind and soul."
Another instructor stepped forward, conjuring a magical diagram of the human body, showing three glowing points.
"Now, let's discuss the three Mana Cores: Spirit Core, Aura Core, and Mind Core."
"The Spirit Core, located near the heart, functions like a circulatory system—distributing mana throughout the body to enhance physical capabilities.With advanced mastery, one can imbue mana with elemental properties to push the body's limits in line with the element's traits."
Instructor Baltas, the combat trainer, stepped forward and demonstrated the use of the Spirit Core.
"Efficient use of the Spirit Core doesn't mean flooding the body with mana. Rather, it's about focusing mana on specific body parts. This reduces strain and maximizes output."
He infused his mana with lightning, causing arcs to crackle across his limbs.
"Elemental enhancement brings out unique qualities. Lightning grants speed, but each element has its strengths."
Next, Instructor Tharis returned to demonstrate the Aura Core.
"Aura Cores enhance weapon properties—especially effective with bladed weapons like swords, daggers, or spears.You can also infuse elemental attributes, but instead of affecting your body, it increases your weapon's destructive force."
He demonstrated by coating a blade in a shimmering aura.
Finally, Instructor Seneca stepped forward to explain the Mind Core.
"The Mind Core is the foundation of all mana use. It's the origin point of imagination.By mentally shaping your mana into a form—like a fireball—you can cast spells.The stronger and more vivid the imagination, the more powerful and diverse the result."
He didn't perform a flashy demonstration but rather focused on laying out the theoretical framework clearly.
Instructor Tharis returned to conclude.
"That wraps up our overview of weapon and core systems. Use what you've learned to identify your strengths.If you have questions, speak to the core-specialized instructors. That's all for now."
The students began to scatter into groups, testing their powers and experimenting with techniques.
Training was divided into stations—weapon handling, mana control, and core application.
Kairos was in the spear group. His movements were sharp and refined—precise and deadly—but his quiet, intimidating presence kept others at a distance.
Fiona practiced manifesting spells through imagination, doing so with ease. Her exceptional control left even the instructors speechless.
Other students started watching them in awe—some with admiration, others with envy.
By noon, training paused. Students spread out to rest. But then, a voice rang out.
"Instructor, may I request to use the dueling arena, as agreed?"
All eyes turned to Kaian West, son of the Marquis of West, as he stepped forward.
The instructor raised an eyebrow but nodded.
"You may—but remember, all duels must remain within safety bounds."
Whispers spread as Kaian strode toward Kairos.
"Mr. Kairos Arkelis, time to honor your word. Or have you changed your mind?"
Kairos sighed. He already knew what the boy wanted—attention, admiration, a reaction.
"I never go back on my word. If you're ready, let's begin."
The outdoor arena quickly filled with spectators from other classes, buzzing with excitement.
The two stood face-to-face as the instructor signaled the start.
Kaian lunged with his rapier glowing with aura. But in a flash, Kairos dodged with minimal movement and countered—striking Kaian's abdomen with the spear's shaft.
Kaian gritted his teeth and tried again, but each attack was easily dodged or countered until he finally fell.
The duel was called. Silence fell—then soft clapping began, growing louder.
But Kaian smirked as he rose, brushing dust from his uniform.
"Congratulations on your victory. Must feel great, huh? Showing off like that."
He sneered.
"I admit your talent is insane. Too insane, if you ask me.Even for someone from the Arkelis bloodline... your power feels inhuman.Honestly? I'd believe it if you said you were the child of a dragon. You're not human. You're a freak."
Gasps filled the air. Some students stepped back. Others whispered nervously.
Kairos stood silent, then turned and walked away without a word.
He had no desire to respond—not to Kaian's provocation, nor to the stares burning into his back.
Fiona ran after him, wanting to say something—but he beat her to it.
"I'm... going to rest. I'll see you later."
His tone was quiet, avoiding her eyes. She could sense the fear behind them—not fear of her, but fear of being rejected by her.
Later that evening, Kairos sat alone beneath a tree behind the training hall, staring at his spear.
Its steel surface reflected his tired eyes.
That word echoed in his mind.
"Freak..."
He closed his eyes and whispered to himself,
"Don't let it get to you... You're still human. He was just trying to get under your skin... You're human... You're still..."
His hand clenched.
"Aren't we...? Human...?"
Images flashed—memories of a boy without emotion, who killed without guilt. A child who never smiled.
A faint smile tugged at Kairos' lips, but it was bitter—seen by no one.
And in a whisper no one could hear:
"Maybe... they're right."
"Even I'm afraid of myself.How could anyone else not be?"
The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting golden light over his lonely figure.
But even its warmth couldn't reach the words carved into his heart.