Reunion

In the bustling streets of Vael, Grey observed a group of boys harassing a merchant. Four of them donned sleek midnight blue robes, adorned with silver constellations, while two wore deep crimson tunics and jet-black trousers designed for agility. Another boy sported fashionable clothes. "Academy students, perhaps," Grey thought, remembering the information about magical academies in each nation taught to him by his master.

Deciding not to meddle, Grey continued on his quest to find Varian for help. Suddenly, a loud noise erupted, and all seven boys lay unconscious. A man in his 20s, clad in a deep violet robe with silver linings, emerged. He harmoniously blended magic and swordplay, a magic-swordsman.

The man addressed the situation and offered, "I will compensate for any damages." The grateful merchant replied, "Thank you so much, Master Lor."

Intrigued, Grey followed Lor into a dark valley. Attempting to catch him off guard, Grey bumped into Lor. Lor asked him, "Why are you following me?" Grey replied, "Varian—I want to meet Sunblade Varian." Lor, with a tilt of his head, asked, "How do you know him?" Grey replied, "He is my master's friend." Lor observed him from heel to head and, nodding thoughtfully, said, "Follow me."

Lor led Grey through the bustling streets of Vael, gradually leaving behind the lively marketplaces and winding through the outskirts of the city. As they walked, Grey glanced at Lor, his curiosity evident. Breaking the silence, Grey asked, "So, you just met me in an alley, and just agreed to help me meet Mr. Sunblade?"

Lor, still observing Grey, responded with a cheerful expression, "Well… You see, Grey, my father always told me he had a friend who had golden eyes!"

Grey, with a calm demeanor, nodded affirmatively. "So, your father told you about me. No, more importantly, is Mr. Sunblade your father?"

Lor explained, "Yes, he is my father. Well, you see, I always wanted to meet you, you know?"

Curiosity got the better of Grey, and he finally asked, "Oh, you wanted to meet me, why though?"

Continuing their conversation, Lor delved deeper, "You see, Grey, my father always told me that a disciple of his best friend's disciple is a skilled swordsman. Even though he is younger than me, he must be a lot stronger. So, I was curious to see the boy who was younger yet stronger than me."

Grey nodded. With a hoarse voice, he said, "I- I don't think that's true. In fact, you are stronger than me by a lot, I guess."

Approaching a grand two-story mansion with vigilant swordsmen guarding the gate, they entered. Lor guided Grey through several beautifully maintained gardens until they reached a stately room, which Lor identified as someone's office. Instructing Grey to wait, Lor left the room.

After a brief interval, Grey heard approaching footsteps, and the door swung open. His eyes widened as he saw Lor entering, followed by Mr. Sunblade. Both entered the room, and Mr. Sunblade warmly greeted Grey, "It's good to see you again, Grey. Tell me, what brings you here? I'm eager to hear about Polaris and the purpose of your journey."

"Mr. Sunblade, it was a harrowing journey," Grey began, his voice carrying the weight of his experiences. "The night of my 16th birthday, the vision atop the snowy peaks was nothing short of a nightmare. Master didn't show up at first, but when he did, it was around sunset…"

As he continued, Grey delved into the challenges faced against mana wolves and the bonds forged with the group of adventurers. "I partnered with mercenaries to navigate treacherous paths, facing mana wolves and learning the delicate balance of trust."

His voice grew more animated as he recounted the encounter with seven boys in the Veradale nation. "There, I witnessed elemental magic in action. These students of the academy showcased their prowess, and I couldn't help but observe from a distance, blending into the shadows."

Grey's gaze met mine as he shared the intricacies of his encounters. "In the marketplace, I overheard the familiar name of Sunblade Varian. It led me to the outskirts, where I eventually found my way here."

Sun looked at Grey with a thoughtful expression. "Grey, your journey has been remarkable, and your mastery over swordsmanship speaks volumes. I propose an opportunity for you."

He gestured toward a parchment on the desk, adorned with the emblem of Eldoritha Academy of Mystic Valor. "Join Eldoritha Academy of Mystic Valor. It's an institution that gathers the finest talents from across Aerilon. Your unique skills could make a significant impact."

Sun continued, "As for me, you can drop the formalities. Call me Sun. We're not in a classroom or within the rigid structures of the academy. We're allies, friends, and I believe your potential deserves a broader stage."

Grey absorbed Sun's words, his golden eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and consideration. The prospect of joining the esteemed academy opened new possibilities, and the friendship between them took on a more informal tone.

Grey hesitated for a moment before asking Sun, "But I can't use magic and I can't reveal astrum to people here. Will that be an issue for the entrance exam?"

A knowing smile crossed Sun's face as he revealed a surprising truth. "Grey, I am the headmaster of Eldoritha Academy. Your unique abilities and experiences make you a valuable addition, and we value potential beyond conventional measures. The entrance exam will be tailored to assess your strengths, not just in astrum and magic but in the broader spectrum of skills you possess."

Grey's expression turned somewhat embarrassed, and he asked in a low tone, "Um- Mr. Sun, I don't have a place to stay, nor do I have money to eat."

Hearing this, Sun chuckled and replied, "Don't worry about anything, Grey. You can live here for the time being until you enroll in the academy."

Before Grey could say anything, Lor said, "Yes, and I will gain a new friend too. I can show you around the city before the enrollment exam."

Grey had a look of gratitude and said, "Thank you, Mr. Sun, and Lor. I will make sure to pay back for this hospitality."

Sun interrupted him, "But, you will have to learn about some basic mana manipulation and royal families to make sure you don't get yourself into an unwanted situation."

With a determined look, Grey immediately replied, "Yes. I will do my best."