Chapter 50: [Aegis]

The dawn was breaking as Lassim made his way up the mountain, the chill of the morning air filled with anticipation for the day's training. After weeks under Valeria's and Master Ferrum's tutelage, he had grown accustomed to the early starts, finding a sense of purpose in the routine.

Today felt different, though; there was an electric excitement in the air, a sense that he was on the cusp of a significant breakthrough. He was finally at the cusp of reaching SI6.

Arriving at the training grounds in the headmaster's abode, Valeria greeted him with a nod, her usual stern and battle-scarred expression giving way to a hint of a smile. "Ready to push further today?" she asked, her voice carrying an undertone of challenge.

"I think so," Lassim replied, a confident grin spreading across his face. "I've even begun to be able to summon snowflakes with my water element."

"Oh, let's see then," Valeria said, amusement flickering in her eyes.