The days felt longer now. Every morning, the sun rose slowly, casting a soft light on the town where magic lived in every corner. The streets were quiet but filled with whispers — whispers of the coming exam. The big day when students show what magic they have, and where they will go next. For many, it was a time of hope. For some, a time of fear.
Coker woke up early again. His body still sore from the hard training, but his mind was restless. The shadow inside him whispered secrets, but also warnings. He felt like the whole world was watching, waiting for him to fail. Because he was magicless once. Because his brother was strong and proud, with wind magic like their father.
He rubbed his eyes and looked around. The small room was simple, nothing fancy, but it was home. Outside, the morning breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers. Lira's voice echoed in his memory. "You're stronger than you think, Coker." Her belief was like a light in the dark. It kept him moving forward.
The training had made him better, but the exam was different. It wasn't just about fighting. It was about showing who you were — your power, your control, your heart.
The town was alive with excitement. Shops opened early, selling food and charms. Kids ran around, laughing, some practicing small spells, their eyes shining bright. The Captains walked through the streets, serious and proud. People stopped and stared. These heroes were the shield of the town, the warriors who fought the demons beyond the borders.
Coker joined the group near the training field. The air was cool, but thick with tension. Students whispered nervously, some practicing spells quietly, others just sitting, lost in thought. Kaiens was there too, fiery as always, but today he was quieter, more focused.
Captain Reizen appeared again, his voice booming over the crowd. "The practical exam begins soon. This test will decide your path. Your power, your control, your spirit. Remember, this is not just for yourself. It is for the people who believe in you. For the future of our world."
Coker felt his heart beat faster. He looked at the other students — some confident, some scared. Then he looked at Lira, who gave him a small, encouraging smile.
The exam was not here yet, but preparations had started. They had to gather, train, and be ready.
As the day went on, Coker felt the shadow inside him grow restless. It whispered to him at every turn, a secret voice telling him he was meant for more. It was the power of shadows, the last of its kind, now alive in him.
He thought about his parents — strong heroes who had given everything for the town. Their legacy weighed on him heavily. People always said his brother had taken their magic. But Coker knew better. His power was different. Mysterious. Dark. And maybe that was what made him special.
That night, under the stars, Coker sat by the river. The water was calm, reflecting the moon's silver light. Lira joined him silently.
"You're ready," she said softly.
Coker smiled weakly. "I hope so."
She nodded, "You don't have to be the strongest. Just be yourself. That's enough."
For the first time in a long time, Coker felt a spark of hope. The exam was coming. The challenge was near. But he was not alone. With friends like Lira and the shadow power inside him, he was ready to face whatever came next.
The rising darkness outside the town was still there, but inside Coker burned a new light — a light of courage, of strength, and of hope.