The tale of the last dragon

THE CHOSEN PATH

Chapter – The Chosen Path

After a long debate among the masters, the final decision was made — *Kael* was to be placed in the *Oyunka Division*, the Masters of Beast, Taming, and Summoning — also known simply as the *Submarine Beast Class*. The choice came with surprise and murmurs across the hall, yet no one dared to question *Master Zuberi*, who was not only one of the most powerful instructors at Nubara Academy but also the current overseer of the Beast Division.

Kael stood still as the announcement echoed. His heart raced, not from fear — but from the weight of expectation. The hall slowly cleared, other students excitedly heading toward their respective divisions. Only Kael remained, unsure of where to go next until a tall student approached him.

"You must be the new one," the boy said with a half-smile. "I'm *Boma*, second-year in the Beast Class. I was told to show you your quarters."

Kael nodded silently, gripping his small bundle of belongings — not much, just some old wraps, a wooden pendant, and the cloth pouch the old hunter *Makonnen* had given him.

The walk to the dorms was quiet but filled with stares. Whispers followed Kael, most of them disbelieving that a boy with no visible soul type had not only passed the trial but caught the attention of Master Zuberi.

When they arrived at the room, Boma pushed open the wooden door. It creaked softly. Inside were four bunks — two already occupied by older boys chatting and sharpening small beast knives.

"Hey!" Boma called out. "We've got a new one. Name's Kael."

The others looked up, skeptical. One scoffed, "He looks like he should be fetching water, not summoning beasts."

Kael clenched his jaw but said nothing.

Boma pointed to an empty bunk near the window. "That one’s yours. Get settled in. Tomorrow, your training begins."

As Kael placed his things down, he felt the room’s atmosphere shift — tension, curiosity, a hint of jealousy. But beneath it all, Kael felt something else: *a spark*. Not the kind from fire or lightning… but the kind that whispered that his journey was just beginning.

And though he didn't say it out loud, in his heart he repeated it:

"I will prove myself. Not just to them… but to me."