The afternoon sun hung high above Arcadia Academy, bathing the sprawling campus in brilliant golden light as a gentle summer breeze drifted through the vast training grounds. The sounds of clashing swords echoed rhythmically from one corner of the arena while bursts of elemental magic illuminated another, painting the air with fleeting flashes of crimson flames, azure torrents, and emerald winds. Groups of students sparred beneath the watchful eyes of instructors, some locked in fierce duels while others practiced the fundamentals of their respective disciplines with unwavering concentration. Every so often, cheers erupted from one training ring as a particularly impressive technique drew the admiration of those gathered nearby, only to be swallowed once again by the constant rhythm of steel striking steel.
Yet amidst the organized chaos...
One figure paid no attention to any of it.
Luca ran.
