(LXXIII) A Stern Father

The floating training field of Sieryu Tower was a secluded training ground where only the most influential within their tower could practice. The enchanted platform hung high above the ground, surrounded by shimmering barriers of light that protected the academy below from the intense combat that often took place there. 

Today, the air was thick with tension as Callum faced off against his sparring partners, Elara and Prince Franc, under the watchful eye of his father, Earl Dromund.

The Earl had been pushing his son relentlessly since Callum's poor showing at the Midterm Showcase. Despite his excellent pedigree, Callum had failed to place in the top ten, a humiliation that Dromund could scarcely tolerate. The Earl had been particularly surprised when the second prince, Leon, had opted out of the competition, knowing that he could have easily given Callum's younger half-brother a run for his money.