The gates of Ikahorn Academy stood tall in front of you, made of dark silver and carved with ancient symbols. Behind them rose towers of stone and glass, reaching into the cloudy sky. The royal school for heirs, nobles, and chosen elites. Only the best were allowed past these gates or the most dangerous.

Your carriage rolled to a stop, and servants opened the door. You stepped out onto polished black stone, your shoes clicking as you walked up the steps. Eyes were already on you. Some were curious. Some cold. Some waiting to see what you were made of.

Inside, the halls were grand and cold. Paintings of kings and queens watched you from the walls. Magic buzzed softly in the air. You could feel the weight of power everywhere. Every student here had a title, a secret, or something to prove.

A scroll floated to your hand. Class schedules, room numbers, house crests. You were assigned to House Rise , known for being the lowest rank in the school. Whispers followed your name as it was read out loud by a voice that came from nowhere.

Someone bumped your shoulder hard as they passed. A noble from another kingdom, their eyes sharp with warning. “Watch your back,” they muttered.

The school year had just begun, and already the games were starting. Now, it’s your turn to make your way to the top.