CHAPTER 2.1: THE ACADEMY TRIALS

Umbra's heart continued to beat with the echoes of the events that had occurred during the night as the first light of daylight appeared over the horizon. Despite the fact that the events that had transpired were weighing heavily on his shoulders, he made his way back to his house. 

By the time he entered his little dwelling, the world seemed to have returned to its usual state, despite the excitement that had occurred the night before. The aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air as his mother, a loving and compassionate figure, prepared breakfast for him. The aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air. At that same moment, his younger sister, who was a vibrant and colorful figure, was already seated at the table, and she was enthusiastically devouring her dinner.

"Good morning, Umbra," his mother greeted him with a smile as he entered the kitchen. "I hope you are having a wonderful day."

.. "Did you sleep well?" Umbra managed to conjure a feeble smile in response, attempting to erase the memories of the night's anguish from her heart. "As well as can be expected," he replied, taking a seat at the table. The family joined in a happy talk over breakfast, discussing unimportant matters like the weather and plans for the day ahead.

Despite the turmoil looming beneath the surface, there was an air of routine in their interactions, a little period of peace amid the turbulence of their lives. After finishing their meal, Umbra and his sister prepared to head to the academy. It was an important day for Umbra, his first day at the prestigious institution where ambitious warriors and wizards trained to enhance their powers.

As they reached the academy, Umbra couldn't help but feel a surge of joy mixed with anxiety. This was his moment to prove himself and show the world what he was capable of. The instructors began by describing the rules and criteria for the day's trials.

Umbra listened carefully, his determination rising with each passing second. The first trial focused on swordplay and swordsmanship. Umbra watched as other youngsters demonstrated their talents, some with astounding demonstrations of strength that left him feeling a little terrified. But as his time neared, a familiar figure made itself known.

The author, the dark ghost from the night before, returned once again, seen only by Umbra. "How are you?" The author's voice resonated in Umbra's brain. "We can talk through our minds because our souls are linked." Umbra nodded, his attention fixed on the dark figure.

"I understand," he responded kindly. As another shadow came near the author, Umbra felt a spark of electricity flowing through him. This shadow, a seasoned swordsman from the author's past incarnation, brought Umbra a lot of experience and skill. With renewed confidence, Umbra stepped forward to engage one of the professors in a battle. Despite the teacher's great rating, Umbra held his own, matching blow for blow until he emerged victorious. The assembly broke into yells of shock and enthusiasm as Umbra displayed his newfound prowess with the sword.

The teacher, startled at Umbra's competence, nodded in agreement before presenting the next problem. This time, the focus changed to martial arts, with no guns involved. Umbra was called up first, keen to put his talents to the test once again. As he stood up against the teacher, another shadow materialized behind him: a superb martial artist from the author's past. With their combined knowledge and talent, Umbra moved with a fluidity and grace that went beyond even his own aspirations.

Dodging and weaving with exquisite precision, Umbra slid around his opponent with speed and agility that were almost miraculous. The teacher, unable to keep up with Umbra's lightning-fast moves, admitted defeat with a begrudging nod. But as Umbra's performance drew to a finish, rumors began to swirl across the crowd. Accusations of cheating filled the air, fuelled by jealously and surprise at Umbra's exceptional skills.

Undeterred, Umbra continued on, determined to demonstrate his worth despite the doubts and distrust of those around him. As Umbra's troubles continued, he found himself battling increasingly terrible foes. The next job offered to him was archery, a test of precision and concentration.

As he proceeded on, a sensation of expectation permeated the air, combining with the discomfort that seemed to hang over the academy grounds. Once again, the ghostly ghost of the author came at Umbra's side, giving gentle encouragement and advice. Though no one else could see him, Umbra took strength from the presence of his ghostly companion.

As the teacher and students prepared for the archery challenge, Umbra couldn't help but notice the suspicious eyes and mumbled comments aimed his way. It was clear that some viewed his huge talents with skepticism, unwilling to recognize the authenticity of his exceptional gifts. But Umbra remained unmoved, his focus unwavering as he prepared to display his ability with the bow. As he took aim and released the arrow, time seemed to slow to a crawl.

The arrow sailed through the air with unerring precision, finding the target's dead center with a pleasing thud. A collective gasp erupted from the crowd as Umbra's arrow struck its target, followed by a torrent of applause from those who recognized the amazing talent and aptitude on exhibit. But even as Umbra praised his triumph, a touch of worry stayed in the air. The accusations of cheating increased stronger, fuelled by jealously and hatred towards Umbra's seemingly easy mastery of each task.