The main hall of Gideon Academy stretched high above, sunlight spilling through enchanted windows. At its center floated the artifact, a glowing crystal with softly pulsing runes, ready to evaluate the students.
Students lined up quietly, waiting for their turn. The artifact would assign each one to a House based on natural aptitude:
Ironclad – Warriors of strength and endurance. Built for melee combat and direct confrontations.
Aetherion – Mages and students who seek knowledge. Focused on magic, intelligence, and theory.
Sylvaris – Students of precision and speed. Masters of archery, agility, and finesse.
Luminaris – Healers, supporters, and strategists. Experts in support magic, battlefield strategy, and tactics.
Kael nudged Arslan as they reached the front.
"You ready?" Kael asked, grinning.
Arslan shook his head. "Observing… as usual."
Kael rolled his eyes. "Observing won't help you. Let's get this over with."
Kael went first. The artifact glowed bright red, assigning him Ironclad without hesitation. Professor Thalor, tall and stern, nodded.
"Ironclad," he announced. "Your physical aptitude and reflexes make this your House. Stand with your comrades."
Kael grinned at Arslan. "See? Easy."
Now it was Arslan's turn. The crystal pulsed softly—a mix of blue and red. Nothing extraordinary, just normal dual aptitude. Professor Thalor observed him closely.
"Arslan… your evaluation shows aptitude for both Ironclad and Aetherion," he said. "Which House do you wish to join, and why?"
Arslan thought of Kael, his past life when he was in Ironclad, and the path he wanted now. In previous life, he start learning magic after graduation but this time, he would focus on magic.
"Aetherion," he said firmly. "I want to focus on magic. I'll grow stronger here and learn to protect those I care about."
The professor nodded. "Very well. Aetherion it is. Make sure you honor your choice."
Arslan stepped toward the blue-glowing group of Aetherion students. Around him, the crowd was calm—dual aptitude was common, nothing unusual.
Kael shouted from Ironclad across the hall. "Don't get lost in your spells!"
Arslan smirked. "Don't worry. I'll catch up to you."
As the ceremony continued, Arslan's eyes scanned the new classmates. He could detect faint traces of magic—the patterns, the potential, the subtle strength of each student. Most faces were unfamiliar, but a few sparked a quiet recognition. He didn't call them out yet—names would come later.
Step by step, he thought. This time, I'll grow stronger. I'll protect the people I care about.
Sorting ended. Students filed toward their House dormitories. Arslan walked alongside Kael for a short distance before splitting off toward Aetherion. A new life had truly begun.