The storm had passed, but its memory stayed behind, in the form of two sleep-deprived boys.
Ezren and Kagetsu shuffled down to the harbor like zombies. Each dragged a small bag and what was left of their dignity. They didn't talk about the night before, especially not the part where they both panicked when thunder shook the inn.
Though, if Ezren had to guess, Kagetsu definitely held the blanket tighter.
"Sleep well?" Ezren asked, smirking.
Kagetsu's eyes were half-closed. "Shut up."
Old Man Qiu stood waiting for them at the docks, calm and well-rested, as if he hadn't even noticed the storm. He wore the same mysterious smile as always and waved them onto the ship.
A Quiet Ride
The boat glided across the calm sea. The sun slowly rose behind them, casting gold light on the water. Everything felt peaceful. Too peaceful.
Ezren leaned on the railing, already bored.
"Hey… Old Man Qiu?"
"Yes, young Ezren?" the old man replied, still looking out at the sea.
Ezren squinted at him. "What do you even do at night? Every time I wake up, you're gone. Are you a ninja or something?"
Old Man Qiu chuckled. "I simply take care of business. Things that are not your concern."
"That sounds sketchy," Kagetsu said.
"Sounds awesome," Ezren added. "Are you a spy? Secret warrior? Retired hero with a tragic past?"
Qiu gave a small smile. "Curiosity is the beginning of wisdom. But too much of it? That's how you lose sleep."
Ezren tilted his head. "Wait… was that a yes or a—?"
"Focus on your exam," Qiu cut in, voice serious now. "You'll need your strength."
Kagetsu frowned. Something in Qiu's voice made it clear: he knew what was coming—and it wouldn't be easy.
Essentia Academy
Hours later, the ship finally arrived at a giant city. At its center stood the famous Essentia Academy of Arts, where students learned magic, combat, and how to control the strange power known as essentia.
The boys walked up a long stone path. As they got closer, the academy came into view.
It looked unreal.
Tall white towers rose into the sky, covered in glowing magical symbols. Floating platforms zipped through the air like flying carts. The place sparkled in the sun like something out of a dream.
Ezren stared up, jaw hanging open. "Dude… are we sure this is the right place?"
Kagetsu nodded. "You're the only one who didn't believe it existed."
Ezren tried to touch a floating lamp and nearly fell into a fountain.
Old Man Qiu gave them a knowing smile. "Rest well. Tomorrow begins the true test."
A Place to Rest
This time, the boys were smart enough to book an inn with more than one bed.
After settling into a cozy shared room, they unpacked, grabbed dinner, and did some light training indoors. But by 4 PM, their energy ran out.
Ezren flopped into bed with a groan. "If tomorrow starts with a fireball to the face, I'm blaming Qiu."
Kagetsu was already asleep.