The training courtyard of Sanctum Academy buzzed with energy. Veylbound trainees sparred under cascading waterfalls of light, each channeling Aspects into dazzling displays.
Kaien stood off to the side, arms crossed.
"Hey, look! It's the Null Boy!" a voice shouted.
A blur landed next to him. Tall, cocky grin, hair a mess of gold—Zedd Thorn.
"Zedd," said Eira, nearby, voice chiding.
"Relax, I'm just saying hi. Wanna spar?"
"I can't control it. Not like you."
"So? That's what training's for!"
Zedd raised a gust of wind, kicking up Kaien's hair.
Kaien sighed. "Fine. But don't blame me if I blow a hole through you."
They stepped onto the dueling circle.
Crowds gathered. Among them, a girl in black and crimson stood, arms folded—Lyra Caelum.
The bell rang.
Zedd struck first, wind lashing like a whip. Kaien rolled, dodged, threw a punch.
Zedd ducked, laughing. "You fight like a wild cat! I like it!"
Kaien raised his hand. A flicker of light.
Zedd hesitated. "Hey, maybe not that one"
The beam fired, grazed Zedd's side. It fizzled before hitting.
Zedd landed a hit, sending Kaien skidding.
"Match!"
Zedd helped Kaien up.
"You're raw, but you've got guts."
Kaien grinned. "You're not bad yourself."
"Not bad?! I'm amazing!
From the sidelines, Lyra turned, walking away. Her voice, cold as ice, trailed behind.
"If he can't even control his own power, he's more danger than promise."
Kaien looked at her retreating form.
Zedd slapped his shoulder. "Don't mind her. She's all frost and no flame. Except when she's fighting. Then it's both."
Kaien stared at his hand.
He would control it. He had to.
Because this was only the beginning.