Professor Orelan's voice carried easily across the hall, calm but heavy with authority. "The gods are not just stories for children. They shape our history, our kingdoms, and our bloodlines. Each dukedom aligns itself to one of the Six Mana Gods, drawing pride from that elemental affinity. Each royal crown, however, finds balance in the Six Dominion Gods—those who embody order, justice, time, and fate beyond mere element."
His gaze swept the rows, sharp enough to make several students sit straighter. Then his eyes rested on Alex.
"You. Rosetta."
The room went quiet, whispers dying in the air. Alex felt Riven nudge him lightly beneath the desk, a grin tugging at the corner of his lips.
"Yes, Professor?" Alex said evenly.
"Tell me, Rosetta—who is the patron god of your dukedom, and what virtue is said to flow strongest through Rosetta bloodlines?"
Alex drew a measured breath. The answer came easily, drilled into him since childhood. "Ignara, the Flamebearer. Fire mana. She is said to embody resilience, passion, and unwavering loyalty."
Professor Orelan inclined his head. "Correct. A noble should know his roots. But remember—heritage gives no guarantee of mastery. Only discipline earns respect."
Riven leaned in just enough for Alex to hear. "Resilience, passion, loyalty… sounds exactly like my Cupcake."
Alex fought back the smile threatening to form, keeping his composure even as a few nearby students turned in surprise at Riven's unabashed teasing.
Satisfied, Orelan turned his attention elsewhere. "You. Thorne."
Saphira stiffened. For a moment she looked as though she might protest, but Alex's steady glance seemed to ground her.
"Name one Dominion God, and the domain they rule," Orelan said.
Saphira's voice was firm despite her hesitation. "Aureon, the Judge. He rules Justice and is invoked in trials across the kingdom."
The professor's mouth curved—just slightly. "Good. Do not think noble blood alone remembers history."
A ripple of murmurs traveled through the hall, nobles and commoners alike exchanging glances.
At their table, Kael smirked quietly. "Looks like we'll be tested as often on wit as on mana."
Alex leaned back, his fire flickering steady in his chest. Already he could feel the shape of this place—rules, expectations, and undercurrents of power waiting to be navigated.