Chapter 2: The Academy of Trials
The gates of the Celestial Academy loomed tall and intimidating, glittering with intricate carvings that shimmered in the sunlight. Liyue stood at the threshold, her breath catching in her throat. This was the place where the chosen trained—and where she already felt like an imposter.
Beside her, Kai Feng whistled low. "Well, they're certainly making a statement. Think the doors are enchanted?"
"Probably," Liyue muttered, adjusting her sash nervously. She could feel the weight of the mark beneath it, a constant reminder of her inexplicable selection.
"Hey, don't look so tense. You've got me," Kai Feng said, slinging an arm around her shoulder. "What's the worst that could happen?"
As if on cue, a group of students passed them, sneering. "Look, it's the village charity case," one said. "Bet she'll be out by the end of the week."
"Ignore them," Kai Feng said quickly. "They're just jealous they don't have my charming personality."
Liyue forced a smile, but the words stung. The whispers and glances followed them as they entered the academy grounds. Students in elegant robes gathered in groups, their chatter buzzing with excitement and disdain. It was clear she wasn't welcome.
---
Their first day was a whirlwind. Orientation began with a speech from the Head Mentor, a stern woman named Master Zira whose piercing eyes seemed to see straight through everyone.
"The trials are not for the faint of heart," Zira said. "Here, you will be pushed to your limits. Only the strong will succeed. The rest will fail."
Liyue gulped. Kai Feng gave her a reassuring nudge, but she could see the unease in his eyes too.
After the speech, they were divided into groups. Liyue's group was led by Mentor Xian, a young, sarcastic man who seemed more interested in playing with his magical staff than in actually teaching.
"Alright, newbies," Xian said, twirling his staff lazily. "Welcome to the Academy. Try not to die in your first week, okay?"
"Great pep talk," Liyue muttered under her breath. Kai Feng snickered.
Their first task was to demonstrate their abilities. One by one, students showed off impressive displays of power: summoning flames, bending water, manipulating shadows. When it was Liyue's turn, she hesitated.
"Don't take all day," Xian said, raising an eyebrow. "We're not here to watch you stare into space."
She stepped forward, her palms clammy. The mark on her waist burned faintly, but she had no idea how to call on it. She closed her eyes, willing something—anything—to happen. Nothing did.
Laughter rippled through the group. "What a waste of time," someone muttered.
Xian sighed. "Well, that was underwhelming. Next."
Liyue slunk back to Kai Feng, her cheeks burning. "I told you I shouldn't be here," she whispered.
"Don't let them get to you," Kai Feng said. "You'll show them. Eventually."
---
That night, as Liyue lay in her bunk, she couldn't shake the feeling of failure. The other students' whispers echoed in her mind, blending with her own doubts.
A sudden commotion snapped her from her thoughts. She sat up to see a shadowy figure slipping through the dormitory. The figure moved swiftly, heading toward the courtyard. Curiosity got the better of her. She followed.
In the courtyard, the figure was joined by others. They seemed to be up to something, their hushed voices urgent. Liyue crept closer, trying to make out their words. Suddenly, one of them turned, spotting her.
"Hey! What are you doing here?"
Before she could answer, the figure lunged at her. Panic surged through her. She raised her hands instinctively, and the mark on her waist flared to life. A burst of crimson energy erupted, throwing the figure back.
The group scattered, shouting in alarm. Liyue stared at her hands, trembling. The power faded as quickly as it had come, leaving her drained and confused.
Kai Feng found her minutes later, slumped against a tree. "What happened?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.
"I... I don't know," Liyue said, her voice shaking. "There were people… and then this power... but I don't remember how I did it."
"Sounds like you had an eventful night," he said, trying to lighten the mood. "Guess you're full of surprises after all."
She managed a weak laugh. "I wish I knew what was happening to me."
"Hey, whatever it is, we'll figure it out," Kai Feng said, offering her a hand. "But maybe let's not go wandering around alone at night anymore, huh?"
Liyue took his hand, standing unsteadily. The mystery of her power weighed heavily on her, but one thing was clear: the Red
Pearl was more dangerous—and more powerful—than she had ever imagined.