The sky over the capital city of Rango dawned clear, as if announcing the start of a new chapter. The towers of the Supreme Magic Academy stood tall and proud, welcoming the second-year students. The atmosphere was charged with expectation, nervousness… and hope.
Ares walked toward his assigned classroom with a steady stride. His body, now more athletic after the intensive training during the break, showed the results of his effort. His gaze was determined, though a shadow of doubt still lingered: his blue fire—that mysterious power that continued to defy him—beat within him like a dormant threat.
Liana was waiting at the entrance. Her smile was as radiant as ever, but something in her presence had changed. Her control over nature magic was so refined that, without realizing it, flowers seemed to bloom with every step she took. The fame she had earned among the citizens of Rango was well deserved. Children ran to hug her when they saw her, and adults greeted her with respect. Yet despite it all, she only had eyes for her best friend.
"Ready for the second year?" she asked playfully.
Ares nodded, though he couldn't help but glance at his right hand. He had tried everything with the blue fire—meditation, physical training, absolute focus... and still nothing. It remained wild. It remained a danger.
"I'm ready," he finally said—more to convince himself than Liana.
Inside the classroom, students were beginning to take their seats. Agust wasn't there. His seat by the window remained empty. But no one seemed surprised.
Professor Trébol entered shortly after, casting a sweeping glance across the room.
"Welcome to the second year. This one will be tougher. More demanding. And for some… more revealing."
Ares noticed how that last word was subtly directed at him.
"The vacation reports have been reviewed. Some of you improved. Others… rested a bit too much. But this year won't wait for anyone."
Liana glanced at Ares and gently squeezed his arm. Ares took a deep breath. It didn't matter how hard it got. It didn't matter how long it took to master that fire.
He had no intention of giving up.