Jace the Elemental

Jace's mind raced. Was this some kind of test? A trap? He searched Lord Severian's face for any hint of deception, but the man's expression was as unreadable as ever, his piercing gaze giving nothing away.

"But… Why me, sir?" Jace asked cautiously. "I'm sure there must be others who—"

"Because you're different," Lord Severian interrupted, his tone leaving no room for argument. "You don't have a noble's upbringing, and yet you possess the drive and skill to challenge them. But most importantly, from what I just witnessed, you have the will to push past your limits. That is something I value, and something this academy needs."

Jace sat in stunned silence, processing his teacher's words. Part of him wanted to protest, to argue that he was just here to improve himself, not to become some kind of pawn in a larger game. But another part of him, the part that had endured Elizabeth's scorn and emerged stronger, knew he couldn't back down now. This was his chance to prove himself, not just to the nobles, but to everyone who had ever doubted him.

"What do you want me to do, then?" Jace asked, his voice steadier now, though his heart still pounded in his chest.

Lord Severian leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled in front of him. "For now, continue as you are. Train, grow stronger, and help Aurora improve. But above all, continue challenging the nobles. You will be the spark that forces them to push beyond their comfort zones. Complacency is the enemy of progress, and you, Jace, are the antidote."

Jace nodded slowly. He understood Lord Severian's intent, and as long as it made him stronger, he was willing to play the role.

But there was one more question lingering in his mind. "Sir, why is Aurora so different from the other nobles I've met?" He hesitated for a second before adding, "Especially her sister."

Lord Severian regarded him for a long moment, as if deciding whether the question was worth answering.

"I do not think you should be prying into my family," he said at last, his voice firm but not aggressive.

Jace shifted uncomfortably. He hadn't expected a warm answer, but there was something about Lord Severian's response that made the air feel heavier, more controlled. Still, he pressed on, treading carefully.

"I don't mean to pry," he said, keeping his voice even. "I was just trying to understand the people I'm working with." 

Lord Severian's fingers tapped lightly against his cane. His golden eyes remained sharp, unwavering. "You will have to wait until, when, or if, she is ready to tell you herself." 

Jace just nodded, he understood Lord Severian not wanting to dive into his family.

"Then, if I'm going to be this 'Spark' for you, what am I going to receive in return?" Jace asked, Lord Severian must be willing to help him improve if he was bringing this up.

Lord Severian's grin was slight but unmistakable. He liked ambitious people, those who knew the value of what they offered and weren't afraid to demand something in return.

"For now, nothing," he said smoothly. "However, later, once you and your team reach a certain level, I will teach you something that you won't be able to learn anywhere else."

Jace narrowed his eyes slightly. "And what exactly does that mean?"

Lord Severian tilted his head, watching him carefully. "It means that when you are ready, I will give you knowledge that others would kill for." His voice dropped slightly, a razor's edge beneath the calm. "But only if you and your team manage to keep rank 1."

He exhaled through his nose, then nodded. "Fine. I'll hold you to that."

"Very good," Lord Severian replied before rising to his feet. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a meeting to attend." He gestured toward the door, signaling the conversation had ended.

Jace gave a slight nod before turning to leave, but he stopped when Lord Severian spoke again.

"And Jace," Severian said, his voice quieter but no less commanding, "the road you've put yourself on is long and dangerous. But if you have the will to endure it, the rewards will be extraordinary."

With a flick of his hand, the door closed behind Jace.

A moment of silence hung in the air before a voice emerged from the shadows. "Are you sure about this, sir?"

Lord Severian didn't look up as he pulled out a book and began writing. "Why do you always ask me that?"

"Because you keep doing questionable things sir." the voice responded flatly.

Lord Severian waved off the concern with an air of amusement. "It's only questionable because you lack the full picture." He paused his writing for a brief moment before continuing. "To answer your question, yes, I'm sure. Quite sure, in fact."

A deep sigh came from the darkness. "Alright, sir. As long as you have a plan."

Lord Severian didn't reply. He simply continued writing, his thoughts elsewhere. His granddaughters had both chosen that boy for reasons he did not yet fully understand. But if he could help mold him into the push they needed, then so be it.