The morning sun spilled across Celestial Academy's courtyard. Students moved in groups, some chatting casually, others hurrying toward classes. But whispers followed Damon, Lira, and Will wherever they went.
"That's Will Arden… one of the founding families of the academy."
"No wonder he's so confident."
"I heard his family controls half the student rankings."
Will walked ahead, calm and poised, but Damon noticed subtle glances from other students—respect, envy, and a thinly veiled challenge.
Lira whispered, "Looks like everyone knows your name now."
Will smirked, not arrogant, but cautious. "It comes with the territory. Arden bloodline… people expect a lot. And some want to push me around to see if I'll break."
Damon's system pulsed.
[External Observation Detected — Social Threat Potential: Medium-High]
[Team Support Recommendation: Active]
They entered the training hall. Today's lesson: pair combat drills, where students were graded not only on ability but coordination.
Will leaned close to Damon and Lira. "Watch me. Learn the patterns. Don't get in the way, but be ready to support."
Damon nodded. Crimson eyes scanning the room, calculating probability outcomes for every move, every strike.
Lira fell naturally into her role—barrier and battlefield manipulation—while Damon adjusted to complement Will's speed and strength.
[Team Synergy Index: High — Predictive Coordination Active]
[System Note: Cooperative Combat Enhances Growth Rate]
As they sparred, other students began to whisper again, watching how an unclassified student moved seamlessly with an elite family heir.
After the drill, a group of high-ranking students approached.
"Arden," one said smoothly, bowing slightly. "It's impressive to see you paired with the Unclassified one."
Will's expression didn't change, but Damon's system flagged the tone: thinly veiled challenge + subtle test.
The student continued, "I trust your family doesn't approve of sloppy team work."
Lira stepped slightly forward. "We work well together. That's enough."
Will's dark eyes softened toward her. "Exactly. Let them talk."
Damon noted every movement, every glance, and every slight inflection of voice.
[Social Threat Neutralized Temporarily — Monitor Closely]
Later, as they walked back to the dorms, Will glanced at Damon. "You're not like the others. You think, you adapt… and you don't care who notices. That's good."
Damon replied simply, "We all survive better together."
Lira smiled softly, her energy flickering faintly around her as if confirming the statement. "Exactly. Together."
Will nodded, a rare genuine smile appearing. "Then don't lose me in the fight. Some people here—" he glanced back at the courtyard—"won't let our little trio exist quietly for long."
Damon's crimson eyes met his. "Then we'll make them regret it."
The system hummed softly.
[Team Coordination Confirmed — Growth Acceleration Noted]
[Potential Conflicts Ahead: High]
High above, someone watching through a hidden tower narrowed their eyes.
[Observation: Will Arden's Influence Activating — Subject Damon Vale Noted]
The academy's walls could hide nothing.
And with Will's family involvement surfacing, every step they took would now carry weight—political, social, and dangerous.