Bound by power ; Two friends with S rank skill

The classroom buzzed with low chatter as Rey and Zane took their seats, waiting for their next instructor. The air was thick with curiosity; no one knew what the upcoming class would bring.

Suddenly—BAM!

A brilliant light flared at the front of the room, followed by a thick plume of white smoke. The students gasped in unison, shielding their eyes from the radiance. When the haze cleared, a tall woman stood before them, her black hair cascading like silk down her back. Her piercing golden eyes swept across the room with commanding grace. She wore a battle robe trimmed with yellow stripes, radiating an aura of strength and elegance.

"Good morning, class," she said, her voice calm yet powerful. "I am your instructor for Combat Magic. You may call me Jomarie."

The students straightened instinctively, their earlier chatter silenced by her presence.

"Today," Jomarie continued, "I will teach you the first and most fundamental step to becoming a true warrior of this academy—the summoning of your personal weapon."

A ripple of shock ran through the students. Even on the first day?

Jomarie's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Yes, even now. Zelbert Academy does not nurture the weak. We seek strength—the kind that changes the world. If you cannot grasp this… you do not belong here."

A tense hush settled over the room. Jomarie stepped aside and placed a large obsidian chest on the table. Its surface shimmered faintly, etched with glowing runes.

"Before we begin, listen carefully," she said, her tone sharp. "There are many combat classes, and the weapon you summon reflects your essence. A gauntlet indicates a Fighter, a sword a Swordsman, a bow an Archer, a staff a Mage, and a dagger an Assassin. A shield means you are a Tank, while a hammer may suggest either a Tank or Blacksmith specialization. These weapons are an extension of your soul. Choose wisely."

She placed a hand on the chest, and the runes pulsed brighter. With a smooth motion, Jomarie reached inside—and when her hand emerged, it clutched a long, sleek staff that shimmered like starlight.

"This," she said, raising it high, "is my weapon. It signifies my role as a Mage—a master of long-range spells and a pillar of support in battle."

The class stared in awe as the staff dissolved into pure light and vanished into her palm.

"Now… your turn. One by one."

Excited murmurs erupted as students lined up. One after another, they placed their hands on the glowing box. Each time, the runes flared, and a weapon emerged—a sword, a bow, a staff, a dagger. Some students beamed with pride, others frowned with uncertainty.

Then, it was Rey's turn.

He stepped forward casually, ignoring the whispers trailing after him. Placing his hand on the box, he felt a sudden surge of heat, like fire coursing through his veins. The chest erupted in crimson light so bright the entire room flinched. Gasps filled the air.

Slowly, Rey withdrew his hand—and in it, a weapon materialized.

It was a pair of crimson gauntlets, their metallic surface gleaming with silver accents. The centerpiece of each gauntlet held a blazing red core, pulsing like a heartbeat. The moment Rey slipped them on, a surge of raw power raced through his body.

He flexed his fingers, feeling the weight, the heat, the life of the weapon.

"…So," Rey said with a grin, "I guess I'm a Fighter."

"Figures," Zane muttered from his seat, lips curling into a faint smile. "It suits you—the stubborn idiot who never gives up."

Rey smirked. "Thanks for the compliment, bro."

"Don't get used to it."

"Your turn."

Zane stepped forward, calm as always. He placed his hand on the chest. Instantly, a cool blue radiance spread from his fingers, washing over the runes in serene waves. Slowly, he drew out a weapon—a long, elegant sword with a sleek black hilt. Embedded at the base was a glowing azure gem, like a drop of frozen ocean. Light-blue stripes ran along the blade, giving it a deadly yet regal charm.

"A swordsman, huh?" Rey commented, eyes gleaming. "Guess that fits your calm, calculated vibe."

Zane allowed a small chuckle. "And I'll take that as a compliment."

One by one, the remaining students summoned their weapons, the room filling with glints of steel, bows, staves, and daggers. But none shone as fiercely as the crimson gauntlets or the azure-bladed sword.

Jomarie, watching silently, narrowed her eyes. (Their mana… it's like standing before two awakened beasts. These boys… they could rival legends.)

As the last student sat down, Jomarie's voice rang out, clear and sharp.

"Good. You've all taken your first step. But remember—your weapon alone does not define your strength. Tomorrow, you will prove your worth… by facing a summoned beast in combat."

The class stiffened, their excitement twisting into nervous anticipation.

"Class dismissed."

As students filed out, Rey leaned toward Zane, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

"Hey, bro. Wanna spar after class? I wanna see what that fancy sword can do."

Zane's lips curved in a rare smile. "Sure. Arena after dinner?"

"You're on."

And so, the first sparks of rivalry—and destiny—were lit.

Tomorrow, their real trial would begin.