The Weight of Destiny
The following days at Hogwarts were a whirlwind of intense training, strategic lessons, and moments of quiet reflection. The presence of Tranquility among them had changed the dynamic, adding an extra layer of camaraderie—and tension.
Morning Training with the Founders
The sun had barely risen when the group found themselves standing in the enchanted training grounds behind the castle. The four Founders stood before them, their presence commanding as always.
Godric Gryffindor crossed his arms, his sharp gaze scanning the students. “We’ll be focusing on swordplay today. Magic is powerful, but a true warrior must be able to hold their own when magic fails.”
Salazar Slytherin smirked, standing at his side. “Some of you may have already experienced that firsthand.” His emerald eyes landed on Syaoran, who had barely held his own against Yue during their last sparring match.
Syaoran clenched his fists but nodded. “Then I’ll just have to get better.”
Yue, standing beside Clow, glanced at him with quiet approval.
Helga Hufflepuff smiled, her warm expression softening the intensity of the moment. “There’s more to combat than strength. A warrior must have endurance, adaptability, and—most importantly—heart.”
Rowena Ravenclaw’s gaze was calculating. “And strategy. Charging in without a plan will only lead to defeat.” She turned to Endymion and his guardians. “That’s something you should remember as well.”
Endymion nodded, his usual confidence tempered with seriousness. “Understood.”
Sparring Matches Begin
The training grounds were soon filled with the sound of clashing swords. The students were paired off, each facing an opponent meant to challenge them.
Syaoran vs. Tranquility – A duel of contrasting styles, Syaoran’s raw determination against Tranquility’s fluid elegance. Every move was met with an equally swift counter, their battle pushing them both to their limits.
Reiko vs. Endymion – A match of sheer willpower. Endymion was strong, but Reiko’s unpredictable movements kept him guessing. Sparks of earth magic flickered around them as they pushed each other further.
Yue vs. Godric – A rare sight, but one that left everyone watching in awe. Godric fought with raw power, his strikes like roaring flames, while Yue moved like the wind, evading and countering with graceful precision.
A Moment of Truth
As the training wrapped up, Tranquility pulled Reiko aside. “I need to ask you something.”
Reiko raised an eyebrow. “That sounds serious.”
Tranquility hesitated, then sighed. “Why did you leave Reidar? You were supposed to be safe there.”
She frowned. “I wanted to grow stronger. I needed to.”
He shook his head. “You’ve always been strong.”
She scoffed. “Not strong enough.”
Tranquility stepped closer, lowering his voice. “You don’t have to carry this weight alone, Reiko.”
She looked up at him, something unspoken lingering between them.
Before she could reply, Syaoran’s voice cut through the tension. “Reiko! Clow’s calling for us.”
Reiko exhaled, nodding. “We’ll talk later.”
Tranquility watched her go, his heart heavy.
He knew their destinies were vast, tangled in the fate of kingdoms and stars.
But more than anything, he just wanted to stand beside her.