Resonance

Each tower stood not only as a place of learning but also as a sanctuary where students could connect with their respective elements, forging a deeper bond with the forces that governed their abilities.

The Elemental Training Towers served as a testament to the diversity and richness of elemental mastery within Alkebulan Spirit Academy, providing students with a platform to explore, learn, and grow in their elemental prowess.

Excitement and determination surged through my heart as I prepared to enter the towers and embark on my journey of elemental mastery.

"Wow, the academy is an incredible place," Everley exclaimed, her eyes widening with wonder.

"It truly is," Nailah agreed, scanning the different towers that shone with elemental power. "No wonder they can't be controlled by the forces of Eastern Sea City."

My words were laced with understanding as I noticed Everley looking at me intently. "I understand why those students don't care about offending me even though I'm a prince. It's not like I plan to always rely on my background."

"That's right, Junior," a voice interjected. "Only personal strength matters here at the Academy!"

The words came from a tall, lean, and handsome brown-haired man with obsidian eyes. I couldn't help but widen my eyes in amazement at his attire.

"Is that Mystech Armor, Senior?" I asked excitedly, sizing up the futuristic armor.

The armor hugged his form seamlessly, a blend of sleek design and pulsating energy. Its surface shimmered with a metallic sheen, its material appearing to be a fusion of mystic alloys, providing both durability and flexibility. Upon closer inspection, intricate patterns resembling runes adorned the surface, pulsating with a subtle glow that hinted at the elemental enhancements within.

The senior chuckled. "You've got a keen eye. This is indeed Mystech Armor. I'm Kudzai, a Class B: eighth-year student. Welcome to Alkebulan Spirit Academy."

My eyes gleamed with admiration. "I'm Antaeus, and eighth year? That's impressive. We just finished our Jorin Test, and we're still getting used to the academy. And before I forget, my element is Fire."

"My name is Everley, and my elements are fire and ice," Everley introduced herself.

Kudzai's eyes widened with surprise, and he looked intently at Nailah, seemingly interested in her element.

With a prideful tone and a sparkle in her eyes, Nailah confidently stated her element, "I control the Hell Class Element: Inferna, Senior Kudzai."

Kudzai nodded in recognition. "Inferna, a rare and powerful element indeed. I've heard stories of its destructive potential, people with such elements also inherit its traits. Remember to reign in your emotions when using it."

"That's spot on senior, Nailah does have wild disposition, but her character is not bad from my experience." Nailah blushes at my words and Everley giggles.

"Haha, I can see that, either way you guys should explore the Towers, and see what they offer. Although you are not allowed to use them yet. Do you want me to be your guide?"

"Of course Senior Kudzai, lead the way. Are the Heaven Class and Hell Class Elemental Towers here?" I poised a question as we followed Kudzai down the cobbled path to what looked to be the Fire Elemental Tower.

"Ah, the Heaven and Hell Class Elemental Towers! Do you see how the Towers are designed, Antaeus?" Kudzai asked with a grin, a glint of reverence in his eyes.

Everley and Nailah raised their eyebrows, studying the towers closely but unable to discern the significance.

Curious, I observed the towers, and it dawned on me—a hexagram. The Towers were positioned to form a six-pointed star, creating a profound geometric design.

"I think it forms a Hexagram design, Senior," I replied, the realization settling in.

"Good! Right now, you can consider the six fundamental elemental towers as the outer realm. The inner realm contains not Towers but portals. These portals lead you to different realms with Divine Laws. These divine laws contain the essence of Heaven or Hell class elements. Finding and absorbing them is no easy feat," Kudzai explained, his gaze particularly focused on Nailah.

We continued our journey, reaching the Fire Tower. Kudzai's next revelation dampened our spirits. "Unfortunately, due to the volatile nature of these realms, you can only go with a Professor."

Disappointment filled the air as his words sank in. The allure of exploring realms with divine laws, containing the very essence of Heaven and Hell class elements, was tantalizing. However, the restriction imposed by the necessity of a Professor's guidance cast a shadow over our immediate aspirations.

"But don't be disheartened," Kudzai continued with a reassuring smile. "You'll have plenty to explore and learn within the Elemental Training Towers themselves. Each tower holds unique challenges and lessons tailored to your elemental affinity. The inner realms can wait until you've honed your skills and gained a deeper understanding of your element."

His words, though consolatory, ignited a spark of determination within us. The Elemental Training Towers awaited, promising a journey of growth and discovery, even if the inner realms remained elusive for now.

As we approached the entrance of the towering Fire Tower, we crossed paths with individuals radiating a potent and sharp aura, a telltale sign of concealed elemental power. Among them, a student stood out—an enigmatic figure with a sword strapped to his back, his long, dark hair emphasizing his sharp and cold demeanor. He focused intently on a board adorned with countless names.

Observing our interest, Senior Kudzai chuckled, "Oh, I see you've spotted the legendary Sword King—Farai Nyasha."

Intrigued, I asked, "Who is he, and what is he staring at?"

Kudzai shared insights about Farai, "Farai is a talented formidable swordsman, he is only 16 years old, yet he holds the top spot on the Elemental Mastery Board for Year 9.

To give you an idea of how talented he is,normally at his age he should be in Year 7. If everything goes well, he will be graduating after this year ends."

"Also his mastery of elemental sword techniques, combined with his control over the wind and fire elements, makes him a force to be reckoned with.

As for the board, it's the Elemental Mastery Rank Board. Students sign up to test and showcase their elemental abilities, gaining recognition and rewards."

This shocked me as it did my companions. Who had a visible change in expression.

"This makes me realise that theres always someone more talented than you. I need to work harder"

"You also need to work hard. Talent is good but without hard work, you'll never become something." Senior Kudzai advised.

Farai's icy gaze remained fixed on the board, exuding power.

Continuing our journey, we left Farai to his focused contemplation. The entrance was a open and streams of students walked out. Some looked visibly tired and others were spirited. Chatter filled the air.

"Do you think the Sword King will be able to graduate this year? I heard that Fire King challenged him in order to see who would reach the 100th floor of the tower"

"He has never failed, heck he jumped years so I know he will graduate this year ! As for the Fire King, I don't think he will win. He should renounce that title before he embarrasses himself." Two students pass us as they talk animatedly.

Everley and Nailah had look of realisation as they observed the Academy life before them. Soon we were inside the Tower.

The entrance led us to a lobby with a captivating blend of advanced and ancient architecture. The ceiling boasted modern wall-encased lights that illuminated the area, creating a welcoming atmosphere. At one corner, a sitting and resting area provided a comfortable space for students. The walls had ancient Jorin Cultivators battling monsters or other people drawn onto them.

In front of us stood two kiosks, each with its own line of students. One was designated for registration, while the other served to acquire a pass for tower usage.

Kudzai explained, "For today, you can't register. Your professor will handle that with your class tomorrow or on the day your elemental training begins.

Once registered, you can obtain a pass to use the tower, which consists of different floors. No one knows how many; the highest a student has reached is floor 100, and no one has ever gone beyond that."

"Wow, that's truly amazing, Senior!" Everley exclaimed with wide eyes.

"Haha, I know, right? With that said, every challenge trains and assesses your elemental control. You won't be harmed during training. As long as you clear the highest challenge on a floor, you can advance."

Our conversation was abruptly interrupted by a nasally voice that rudely cut through the air, "Well, if it isn't Kudzai. I didn't know the famous Storm King has time to be a tour guide for a few nobodies!"

Turning towards the source of the voice, we saw a figure sauntering towards us with an air of arrogance. He had slicked-back hair and a sneer that seemed permanently etched on his face.

Kudzai maintained a composed demeanor, "Oh, if it isn't Leon. Still causing trouble as usual?"