The training grounds were alive with motion-young nobles sparring, practicing elemental control, and testing their physical limits. The clatter of staffs, the whoosh of mana-infused strikes, and the occasional shout filled the crisp morning air.
Alex moved quietly among the training areas, observing and noting techniques, though his own cultivation had recently strengthened. His crisp, white dress-simple but elegant-fluttered slightly in the breeze. He preferred to maintain his unique style even while attending the grounds, letting subtlety and grace mark his presence.
It was here, near the eastern edge of the grounds, that he first noticed him. A tall boy with striking black hair, partially streaked with silver, practiced a series of dark mana strikes with a precision that drew the attention of many onlookers. His stance was confident, almost regal, yet a playful edge lingered in his movements—he flipped his purple obsidian-colored nails mid-motion, a subtle rebellion against the rigid decorum of the training area.
Alex paused, intrigued. The boy's aura was sharp, commanding, and yet... familiar, like someone who understood the art of both strength and subtlety.
Noticing Alex's gaze, the boy halted his movements, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Well, well… you move with such grace and precision. Not many can make elegance look effortless."
Alex arched an eyebrow. "And you are?" he asked evenly, his voice calm yet curious.
"Riven," the boy replied, stepping closer. "Cousin to the crown prince, wielder of dark mana, and someone who appreciates skill when he sees it. Though I must say... your presence is striking. That outfit-pure white-it suits you."
Alex studied him carefully. "You seem confident for someone I've just met."
Riven's smirk widened. "Confidence isn't given; it's taken. And power... well, it's a playground if you know how to play." He flicked his nails again, a subtle display of elegance and defiance. "But I like what I see. Precision, thoughtfulness... grace. It's rare to witness someone so young carry themselves with such control."
Alex allowed a faint smile. "Observation is key. Reaction without thought only leads to mistakes."
Riven's eyes gleamed with approval. "Finally, someone who understands. Don't think I'll go easy on you, though."
Alex tilted his head slightly. "I wouldn't want you to."
A moment of mutual recognition passed between them-a silent understanding that while they were strangers now, their paths would intersect in ways neither fully anticipated.
Riven extended a hand, playful yet confident. "Names have power. You can call me Ry. Let's see how well you handle someone as chaotic as me."
Alex considered it for a brief moment, then nodded. "Ry. I'll remember that."
And just like that, the stage was set. Two strong-willed nobles, aware of each other's strengths and quirks, ready to navigate a world of power, politics, and personal growth-each with their own methods, yet inevitably drawn into the same unfolding story.
Author's Note:
Who else thinks Riven is an absolute baddie 💅 and Alex is slaying in that white dress? I'm totally staning these two baddies! 😎✨