The sun had barely begun to dip below the horizon when Ryuu and Renzo arrived back at Shinzai from their latest mission. The wind carried the scent of the wilderness with it as the two stepped off the transport and onto familiar grounds. They had completed their task with astounding efficiency, wiping out a horde of 100 beasts in just two minutes.
"Good work, Renzo," Ryuu said, giving his young apprentice a proud pat on the back. "You've improved."
Renzo, still catching his breath, grinned. "Thanks, Ryuu. That was... incredible."
Ryuu's smile was brief but genuine. "You're a force to be reckoned with. You're ready for the next step."
Without another word, Ryuu turned and started walking toward Nova Tower, his destination clear. Renzo followed, his curiosity piqued, as he watched his mentor move with purpose.
Inside Nova Tower, the massive structure gleamed with the light of dusk, its silhouette casting a long shadow over the city. Ryuu strode into the building, heading straight to Kael's office without delay. The guards at the entrance recognized him immediately and stepped aside, allowing him to pass. He didn't waste any time.
Kael was sitting at his desk, papers scattered in front of him. When Ryuu entered, Kael looked up, expecting his usual reports, but the serious expression on Ryuu's face caught his attention.
"Ryuu?" Kael said, raising an eyebrow. "What's going on?"
"I think Renzo's ready," Ryuu said firmly, his voice carrying weight. "I'm recommending him for the rank of 3rd Wielder."
Kael's eyes widened in surprise. He had known Renzo was talented, but this was a bold move. "3rd Wielder? At his age?"
Ryuu nodded. "I've seen his potential firsthand. The way he took down those beasts today... it's clear to me that he's ready to rise. I'm confident in him."
Kael leaned back in his chair, thinking for a moment. His hands rested on his desk as he processed the information. Renzo had always been a quick learner, surpassing even some of the older students in their training. But to be promoted to 3rd Wielder at just 11 years old was unheard of.
"I trust your judgment, Ryuu," Kael said finally, his expression serious but proud. "If you think he's ready, then we'll move forward. But there's more to this than just strength. Renzo has to be mentally prepared for the responsibilities that come with that power."
Ryuu gave a small nod, his face softening slightly. "He's already proved he's ready for it. It's not just his strength—it's his resolve, his dedication. He's got the heart of a true Wielder."
Kael sighed, knowing Ryuu was right. "Alright. Let's do it."
Later that day, as the training session began, Kael gathered Renzo and the others in the dojo. The room was filled with anticipation as the new Wielder stood among his peers.
Renzo, standing tall and looking around, had no idea what was coming next. He had spent most of his time training and leveling up, but now, the moment that he had been waiting for was finally here.
"Renzo," Kael called out, his voice firm. "Today marks a new milestone in your journey. You've earned your promotion. You're now officially a 3rd Wielder at the age of 11."
Renzo's eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait—what?"
Kael smiled at the boy's reaction. "You've earned it, Renzo. I couldn't be more proud of you."
The room fell silent for a moment. Renzo stood there, processing the news. This was a dream come true, but it was also overwhelming. The path to becoming a true Wielder was no easy feat, and now, at just 11, he was being asked to step up into the ranks of those much older and more experienced.
"I—I don't know what to say," Renzo admitted, his voice slightly trembling.
Kael gave him a reassuring look. "You don't have to say anything. You've already shown more than enough. Now, let's keep moving forward."
Before Renzo could respond, Kael gestured to the side where a young boy stood. Jinsei Kairo, Zhen Kairo's nephew, had arrived at the academy earlier that day, ready to begin his own training.
Renzo noticed the boy's curious gaze and stepped forward, introducing himself.
"This is Jinsei Kairo," Kael said. "His uncle, Zhen Kairo, saved my life many years ago. And now, Jinsei is here to train alongside you. You two will be training partners from now on."
Renzo turned to Jinsei, who was looking up at him with a serious expression. "I'm Renzo," he said, holding out his hand. "Let's make sure we push each other."
Jinsei nodded and shook his hand firmly. "I'll give you my best, Renzo. We're going to be the strongest team."
Kael watched the two boys as they exchanged a firm handshake, the weight of their future starting to settle in. Renzo had already achieved greatness at a young age, but now, with Jinsei by his side, there was no limit to how far they could go.
As the training began, Kael stepped back, knowing that the next generation was ready to rise. Renzo, Jinsei, and the others would face their own battles, but Kael had faith that they would carry the legacy forward.
The challenges were just beginning.