The dawn broke cold and gray, casting long shadows across the manor's overgrown grounds. Kael Ardyn stood at the edge of the estate, his body still aching from yesterday's battle, but his spirit ignited with a new purpose.
"Elira," he said, "I must get stronger. I can't survive this world as I am."
She nodded, her eyes soft but determined. "There is a place where you can learn—The Ardent Academy. It trains the empire's finest mages and warriors. You'll be safe there... for now."
Kael's pulse quickened. The academy sounded like a fortress, a chance to build his power and gather allies. But danger lurked beneath its gilded walls too.
---
Arriving at the sprawling gates of Ardent Academy, Kael's heart pounded in his chest. Nobles in fine robes and armor passed by, their eyes sizing him up with thinly veiled contempt. A sickly noble boy like him was an easy target or so they thought.
Kael's fingers brushed the amulet at his throat a relic from his past life and the Soul Devouring System whispered quietly:
"Entering new environment. Initiate reconnaissance. Identify threats and opportunities."
Kael scanned the crowd, catching the gaze of a tall, sharp-eyed boy with a cruel smile—Aric Dorne, son of Duke Halverin, known for his ruthless ambition. Their eyes locked, and Kael felt a chill.
---
Classes began the next day under the stern gaze of Headmaster Elen Solvar, a woman with piercing eyes and a secretive smile.
"Today, you will learn control," she said, her voice echoing in the stone hall. "Magic is power, but power without control is destruction."
Kael's first lesson was basic spell control, but his system granted him an edge. As he silently absorbed the lingering soul energy in the room, his fingers glowed faintly, surprising even himself.
Nearby, a quiet girl with deep violet eyes watched him Serin Vale, shy but observant.
"You're not like the others," she whispered.
Before Kael could respond, a loud voice cut through.
"Watch yourself, weakling!" Aric Dorne snarled, pushing Kael hard. The crowd laughed.
Kael's eyes narrowed. The system's voice guided him:
"Threat detected: Aric Dorne. Recommend defensive tactics.
With a steady breath, Kael countered the push, surprising Aric and the onlookers.
The game had begun.
---
That night, Kael lay in the academy dormitory, the system displaying his growing stats and new skill potential.
Strength: 25 (+12)
Vitality: 22 (+7)
Agility: 20 (+10)
Skills Unlocked: Soul Shield, Keen Senses
His body was still weak, but his soul burned bright with potential. And somewhere deep inside, the system whispered of greater powers waiting to be devoured.