Astur was a very promising mage.

From his first fights at the Mathesia Center, he had demonstrated an exceptional ability to control his mana.

Over the years, he established himself as one of the best in his class.

The Mathesia Center overlooked a valley shrouded in mist and magical splendor. Its tall granite towers vibrated with energy. Between classes, Astur loved to wander in the surrounding woods, far from the enchanted tumult.

One day, while he was walking, he saw someone fast asleep.

Beside her, a small open notebook intrigued him. Curiosity filled him, and he approached and took a look. He discovered a drawing of what appeared to be a magician, accompanied by a few notes and... little hearts drawn all around it.

He couldn't help but laugh out loud.

The laughter woke the sleeper. Realizing what had happened, she turned red with embarrassment... then with anger.

Furious, she rushed at him and began hitting him.

It was Valensia.

A heated and ridiculous fight ensued—Astur defended himself as best he could.

Then, tensions subsided. Valensia ran to retrieve her notebook, closed it hastily, and hugged it.

Astur, laughing, let out a mocking laugh, amused by the situation.

This was their first meeting.

A meeting that, against all odds, would seal a deep friendship.

Astur knew all about Valensia's plans.

She had shared several of her books on the legendary magician with him.

While he readily mocked her almost obsessive passion, he, too, remained fascinated by this mysterious witch.

But not in the same way.

He dreamed of becoming her student. Of learning from the best.

But there was one obstacle: the rankings.

Valensia absolutely had to finish at the top of her class to fulfill her wish.

And if Astur also proved too brilliant, he would be sent elsewhere.

This point was crucial. It was essential to prevent their excellent results from preventing them from being assigned together.

Recall the case of Bellona and Janvier: it was Bellona's wish that had forced the instructors to send them to the same clan. Without that, the administration would never have taken the risk of putting the two best players together.

It was the same here.

Valensia's wish was simple, but also ambitious:

"I want to be the Chief of the Shantium Clan."

And it was with this in mind that they both oriented their education.

A unique bond, guided by a common dream... and a shared admiration.