Shattered Destiny : Fate

The week passed in the blink of an eye, and the time had come for Ajax, Storm, and Lisa to leave their old school behind and enroll at the prestigious academy in the royal capital, Regalia. It was a place unlike any they had experienced before—an academy where success wasn't determined solely by magical abilities or combat prowess but by credit scores. These scores were earned through class activities, duels, and defeating monsters. The more credit one amassed, the higher their standing.

Crownshard Academy was no ordinary school; it was reserved for the elite. Students could not simply enroll. To be admitted, you needed a recommendation from a high authority, such as royalty or a reputable institution, after demonstrating your abilities to the academy's administration. Originally, the academy was exclusive to nobles and royals, but due to the heroism of the commoner Lady Tempus centuries ago, they broadened their reach, accepting people of all social statuses. However, those with exceptional heroic backgrounds or those who attracted the attention of emperors or the royal family received a special pass. Alternatively, you could qualify by being one of the top students in your academy. Candidates were selected from all three nations.

Lisa's eyes gleamed with excitement as they stood at the entrance of the academy, staring up at the giant statues of Goddess Tempus and Lady Tempus. The sight of the statues filled her with a surge of confidence—this was her opportunity to finally prove herself and take one step closer to becoming a hero. Ajax and Storm were intrigued as well, but it was clear that Lisa's determination outshone theirs. Her ambition burned brighter than ever, fueling her every step forward.

The trio was assigned to the West Sacred, given Terra Academy's historical ties with it. The West Sacred was second only to the North Sacred in producing heroes. Upon their arrival, the captains of the West Sacred greeted them and provided an overview. The West Sacred had a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the North Sacred, despite their strength. Formalities were not as strictly enforced, and students had more freedom in their training methods. This was perfect for Storm, as his free-spirited nature matched the faction's culture.

Crownshard Academy also held personal significance for both Ajax and Storm. It was the same faction Ajax's father had enrolled in when they attended the academy. Storm's parents, Savion and Scarlet, had been in the North Sacred alongside Ajax's mother, Athena. Ajax's father, Alex, had been a member of the West Sacred, just like them. Incredibly, Storm's parents had been promoted to the Central Sacred just one semester after enrolling, both tied for the highest credit scores.

After their orientation, Ajax, Storm, and Lisa were shown to their rooms. Each of them lay in bed that night, the weight of their new journey pressing down on them. The path ahead wouldn't be easy. Storm, in particular, was lost in thought, determined not to tarnish his family's reputation. His parents had set a high bar, and he was determined to live up to it.

Lisa, on the other hand, couldn't contain her excitement. She felt this was the opportunity she had been waiting for, and she wasn't about to waste it. Unable to sleep, she called for Ajax and Storm to meet her.

"Let's have an orientation of our own," she said with a grin when they met in one of the common rooms.

The three of them spent the night talking, laughing, and getting to know each other better. They bonded over their shared ambitions and their excitement about the challenges ahead. For a few hours, they let go of their worries and simply enjoyed each other's company.

But as the night wore on, they knew it was time to return to their rooms. Before they parted ways, Lisa spoke up, her voice filled with determination.

"Let's make a promise," she said, holding out her hand. "Let's work together and get promoted to the Central Sacred. All of us, together."

Ajax and Storm exchanged glances, then smiled. They each placed their hands on top of Lisa's.

"We'll do it," Storm said confidently. "Together."

Ajax nodded. "No matter what, we stick together."

With that promise made, they headed back to their rooms, the weight of the coming challenges balanced by the strength of their bond. They were ready to face whatever came their way—together.