The training hall was livelier than usual. Students gathered in small groups, whispering curiously among themselves. The rumor had spread quickly: a new student would be joining the second year—and not just any student.
"They say she comes from one of the noble houses in the north," one commented.
"And that she controls lightning magic with near-perfect precision," added another.
Ares yawned as he adjusted his training gloves, ignoring the chatter… until the door opened.
A female figure stepped through the threshold with elegant poise. Her long, shining blonde hair seemed to absorb the room's light. Her eyes—intense and blue like a stormy sky—scanned the hall naturally, as if she were used to being the center of attention.
"My name is Dana Von Eissen." Her voice was firm, confident, but carried a hint of sweetness that contrasted with the electricity that seemed to crackle subtly around her. "I've been assigned to Group 4. I hope we can work well together."
Ares froze.
"You okay?" Liana asked, nudging him with her elbow.
"Huh? Yeah, yeah, just… what a presence, right?"
Trébol, watching from the back with his arms crossed, nodded.
"Welcome, Dana. Your group will be number 4, along with Liana, Agust, and Ares. I hope your performance lives up to your background."
Agust glanced at her out of the corner of his eye and gave a curt but respectful nod.
Liana, ever kind, stepped forward to greet her.
"Nice to meet you, Dana. I hope we get along well."
"Likewise," Dana replied with a polite smile.
But when her eyes landed on Ares, he was already standing in front of her, hand extended.
"I'm Ares… no last name, but very eager to get to know you."
"Pleasure to meet you, Ares-no-last-name. Working with you should be… interesting."
The spark—both literal and figurative—had just been ignited.