《Eye of the Storm》
Chapter 1 – Day Zero-Plus-One
I can¡¯t wait to have his heart.
Now, I know this might sound romantic, but I mean it literally. I want to feel its heat as I tear it from his chest.
The vision sears into my mind¡ªhis heart, slick and red, pulsing frantically between my fingers. Thick, warm blood flows down my hands, each drop heavy as it splatters onto the ground, echoing in the silence. The puddle grows beneath me, and I feel it seeping between my toes, slippery and cold, yet I¡¯m rooted, unshakable, as if the earth itself has anchored me.
Slowly, I squeeze the heart, and it fights back, thrumming against my palm. A ragged, pained gasp tears through the air, and I snap my gaze up to meet his eyes. They¡¯re a deep, endless brown, ringed with a crown of gold that glimmers even now, like a fading ember. I know those eyes¡ªthey¡¯ve haunted my dreams, seared into my soul.
My eyes snapped open, the darkness of my room swallowing the bloody vision, but the phantom sensation of blood still clung to my skin. My breath came in ragged bursts, like I¡¯d been running for miles through a thick fog. Sweat slicked my skin, and my hair stuck to my forehead, damp and heavy. I shot up, my heart battering against my ribs as if it, too, feared being wrenched from my chest.
Shaking, I pressed my palms to my temples, trying to push away the remnants of the nightmare. Tremors ran through my fingers, and a chill spidered down my spine, leaving a trail of ice in its wake. I forced my eyes shut, dragging in slow, deep breaths, each one a struggle, trying to ground myself back to reality. Each inhale was a struggle, each exhale a reluctant release of the terror that had gripped me.
The room around me was dark and silent, but the echoes of that horrifying image still clawed at the edges of my mind. I glanced at the clock¡ª5:45 AM. Too early to start the day, yet too late to fall back into uneasy sleep. I swung my legs over the side of the bed, my feet hitting the cold floor, grounding me further. I rubbed my clammy hands against my pajama pants, the simple, repetitive motion soothing.
Ah, what a perfect way to start the morning.
I forced myself to stand, the lingering heat of the night clinging to me like a stifling shroud. I moved to the window, pushing it open slightly. The warm summer air flowed in, carrying the scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass. It wasn¡¯t exactly cold enough to call it refreshing, but the change in atmosphere helped. My breath began to even out, the fog of the nightmare slowly lifting. I let the warmth wrap around me, feeling the familiar smells and sounds of late summer pull me back to reality, each breath grounding me further, making me feel present, alive.
I forced myself to stand, the lingering heat of the night wrapping around me like a stifling blanket.
Now that I set my mood right with a nightmare for the first day back at school, I am ready for the day. We arrived at the dormitories last night¡ªdinner was a blur, and soon after, we retreated to our rooms. My school uniform awaited me on the bed, neatly folded, tailored precisely to the measurements they had taken just weeks ago.
As a third-year student, my uniform bore the marks of seniority. The embroidery and lace had become more pronounced, more intricate with each passing year. What once was a plain white blouse now featured delicate lacework that traced patterns along the collar and cuffs. The blazer had silver threads stitched into elaborate designs that curled around the edges, and a matching cape hung beside it, a necessity for colder months. But some things remained unchanging: the high-waisted, pleated charcoal gray skirt; the black knee-high stockings (or waist-high ones for winter); and the polished black leather scholar shoes. The boys¡¯ uniform mirrored ours, only with gray trousers instead of skirts.
I ran my fingers over the uniform¡¯s fabric, feeling the texture of each stitch, every detailed embroidery that marked my progression. At least they got my measurements right this year.
This regular uniform was just one of many we received over the years. As first-years, we only had the basics, but as we advanced, we acquired new uniforms¡ªspecial ones reserved for various occasions and classes. Thankfully, most of them rarely left their hangers.
Today is Day Zero-Plus-One. For most students, it¡¯s just day zero, but for the chosen few¡ªthose lucky enough to arrive early and play tour guide for the first-years¡ªit¡¯s our second day back. And, of course, to make things even more delightful, it¡¯s one of those special days when we¡¯re required to don our celebratory uniforms. Because nothing says ¡°welcome¡± like being stuffed into an outfit that screams I¡¯m here to inspire.
The celebratory uniform for my house, Elysium, is a tunic showcasing our house colors and patterns¡ªblack and silver. Elysium, home to the brightest minds and most skilled leaders. And me. Not that I¡¯m complaining though; black and silver looks great on me.
To my surprise, the tunic is a lot less suffocating than last year¡¯s. Someone must have realized we have to breathe in these things. The design has changed subtly, fitting my body much better. Despite taking our measurements down to the last millimeter, the school has this talent for turning fabric into torture devices, but this year, I have to give credit where it¡¯s due.
The ensemble itself is a blend of elegance and mysticism, starting with a long, flowing black robe. The sleeves sweep out with each movement, giving it that dramatic flair they love so much. Delicate silver vines twist down the fabric, as if nature itself decided to embroider my clothes. Beneath the robe, a silver under-tunic shimmers with patterns that ripple like water, catching the light with every step. It adds this ethereal touch, like I¡¯m supposed to look both regal and slightly otherworldly. A silver leather belt cinches the waist, and its leaf-shaped buckle is a nod to our ¡°connection with nature¡± or something equally poetic. At least it looks nice. Knee-high leather boots, decorated with leaf motifs, complete the look, grounding it all¡ªboth literally and metaphorically.
School policy strictly forbids makeup, which they think keeps us ¡°unblemished and pure.¡± Sure. But nail art? Totally acceptable. It¡¯s become a battlefield for creative expression. Some girls and boys have designs so elaborate, they could be miniature works of art. Meanwhile, my own nail art skills are¡ let¡¯s just say, nonexistent. So, I stick with plain black¡ªmatches the uniform and requires zero talent.
I take a moment to assess my hair. Even though it falls in perfect waves¡ªthanks to a few well-placed spells¡ªit feels a little too simple. Empty, almost. So, I clip back a section with a silver hairpin, keeping a bit of hair out of my face. It¡¯s a small touch, but it adds just enough to make me look like I tried.
I glance at the clock near my bed. Just past 7 AM. The first-years won¡¯t arrive until after 10, so I¡¯ve got plenty of time to kill. I learned my lesson from last year¡¯s disaster: an hour of wrestling with a uniform that felt two sizes too small, followed by a twenty-minute meltdown. This year? I finished both tasks in under twenty-five minutes. Progress, people. Serious progress.
With time to spare, I spend the next hour unpacking. By third year, you¡¯d think it¡¯s a finely honed skill, and you¡¯d be right¡ªI can have everything in its rightful place with military precision. It helps when you know exactly where you want each item. My dorm room, currently shared with four other girls, will feel a lot fuller once Mika (our resident sixth-year) and the two fourth-years, Alia and Naomi, show up. They¡¯ll stroll in later today since they¡¯re blessed with no welcoming committee duty. Our fourth roommate graduated last year, so her bed will be occupied by a fresh-faced first-year.
When I finally finish, it¡¯s already 8, and I make a dash out of my room, zipping down the corridor to the common room of our house. Elysium¡¯s colors¡ªgray, silver, and black¡ªshould make the space gloomy, but it¡¯s far from that. The soft glow of silver runes on the light gray walls bathes the room in a magical, almost otherworldly light. The runes shift as I move past, like they¡¯re dancing just for me. Not that I mind¡ªit¡¯s a nice touch. The satin bed covers, light gray and shimmering, and the billowing curtains add a graceful, ethereal vibe. And the sleek black wood furniture, polished to a near mirror finish, catches the silvery glow, making everything feel warm and welcoming despite the somber palette.
As I walk through the corridors, the portraits of past house members stare back, their eyes following my every move¡ªnothing creepy about that. The enchanted plants along the walls sway as I pass, whispering secrets in voices too soft to catch. I¡¯ve learned to ignore them. Then, there are the crystals and gems, scattered like jewels, providing light in constantly shifting hues. They throw rainbows across the hallways, shimmering and glinting with each step. At least the corridors have some flair.
The common room at the center of the dormitory is the real showstopper. The glass ceiling lets sunlight or moonlight filter in, depending on the hour, and it¡¯s enchanted to filter the light perfectly, creating a serene ambiance regardless of the time of day. The room is filled with everything a student could want: plush couches, swing beds that sway gently, and soft carpets for those who prefer sitting on the floor. The tables, supposedly meant for studying, are mostly shoved to the sides because, let¡¯s be honest, no one actually studies here.
The grand fireplace takes center stage, its black and silver stones arranged in patterns so intricate you¡¯d think it was crafted by some ancient mage (probably was). The flames flicker, casting hues of blue and green, and they never burn down completely. In front of it, there¡¯s this big, open space where we sit in a circle to play games, though it usually ends with someone trying to hex someone else. All in good fun, of course.
The walls are lined with bookshelves, crammed full of ancient spell tomes, the latest magical theories, and¡ªmy personal favorite¡ªrandom memorabilia from past students. Some of these treasures include Leo¡¯s collection of teeth lost in duels (later regrown by healers), Miles¡¯ infamous potion that he brewed while intoxicated by another potion (no one¡¯s dared to test it), and Delilah¡¯s self-portrait that somehow ended up looking like Mrs. Elsher, our herbology teacher, who then signed it.
¡°You on morning duty too?¡± Oliver called from one of the couches, looking entirely too put together for this hour. His hair was perfectly brushed, his uniform crisp and spotless, every bit as intricate as mine. He even had tea in hand, steam curling up like he was in a cozy commercial. He¡¯d clearly been awake for hours.
¡°How could I not be? There¡¯s nothing I love more than dragging myself out of bed at dawn to greet a bunch of nervous first-years while melting under the sun.¡±
He chuckled, the kind that said I feel you.
¡°I¡¯d trade it with you if I could.¡±
¡°Why? Where are you stationed?¡±
¡°I¡¯m at the Entrance Hall,¡± he said with a dramatic sigh.
Ah, the Entrance Hall duty: the assignment from the seventh circle of hell. You¡¯re on call from 10 AM until 6 PM, stuck answering every single question that pops into a first-year¡¯s mind (and trust me, they¡¯ll ask everything, and by that, I mean everything). You also get to perform the thrilling job of mind-numbing admin tasks. Oh, and the best part? Reciting the academy¡¯s history, architecture details, and other unnecessary trivia they insist you memorize for funs. It¡¯s not only exceptionally boring but unreasonably long too.
¡°Have fun!¡± I called back, my voice laced with mock cheer as I made my escape out the door.
The room opened into a narrow corridor that led to the dorm entrance, which itself led to a small porch and the bridge connecting our dorm to the school building. Passing through, I couldn¡¯t help but admire it, as I always did. And yes, maybe I¡¯m biased, but I¡¯m convinced our bridge is the most stunning one on campus. It¡¯s crafted from black glass, veined with silver linings and etched runes that mimic the walls inside. The surface shimmers under the sunlight, and the best part? It¡¯s see-through. You can watch the river and its glowing fish far below as you walk. The tall arches, draped with silver vines, create a tunnel effect, making the whole thing feel like walking through an enchanted gateway.
My heels clacked loudly as I crossed the bridge, the sound echoing in the open air. From the bridge, I entered the Scholar¡¯s Tower, veering left to spiral down the stairs. The tower opened up into the fifth floor of the main building. I sped through the hall that stretched in front of the library, eventually reaching the Staircase Chamber.
Each floor of King¡¯s Academy is ridiculously tall, with ceilings so high they probably have their own weather patterns. The corridors? They¡¯re either a decorator¡¯s dream ¨C or maybe a nightmare, depending on your taste ¨C with their over-the-top elegance and enchantment. The walls are a kaleidoscope of styles¡ªeach section feels like it¡¯s competing for your attention, refusing to settle for anything subtle. Each section has its own unique charm and character, as if the academy couldn¡¯t decide on just one style.
Some hallways are draped in tapestries that retell the academy¡¯s glorious history, each one depicting epic battles, renowned mages, and dramatic magical events. These aren¡¯t your grandma¡¯s tapestries, though; the threads shimmer and shift, making the scenes move. You can watch entire battles unfold if you stare long enough.
Other corridors opt for polished wood paneling, covered in floral designs and arcane symbols carved so intricately you¡¯d think the wood was enchanted to grow that way. The carvings are often inlaid with jewels and metals that catch the light, making the entire hallway look like a glittering treasure hoard. The wood itself gives off a scent that changes with the seasons¡ªright now, it smells like fresh flowers mixed with the tang of magic. No idea how they manage that, but it¡¯s one of those charming details you get used to.
The corridors also have alcoves filled with statues and busts of the academy¡¯s most notable alumni. They¡¯re not just there for decoration, either; they nod, wink, or gesture as you pass. Some even offer cryptic advice if you stand there long enough. It¡¯s like having stone teachers who occasionally feel like talking. I used to try listening to them, but after getting ¡°Wisdom is a river¡± one too many times, I figured my time was better spent elsewhere.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
The lighting? A mix of glowing crystals embedded in the walls and enchanted chandeliers hanging from the ceilings. The crystals cast a soft, warm light, making the tapestries and carvings look even more magical. The chandeliers have their own flair, with magical flames that flicker and dance, creating the kind of ambiance you¡¯d expect in a grand castle. It¡¯s all very storybook-perfect, and it works, I guess.
The staircases connecting the floors aren¡¯t just functional; they¡¯re masterpieces. The banisters are carved from the same enchanted wood that lines the walls, and the steps are either polished stone or wood, each tread shining as if it¡¯s meant to be admired. The spiral staircases, in particular, wind through the floors with a graceful twist, giving glimpses of the academy¡¯s grandeur from different angles. Honestly, it feels like the staircases themselves are showing off.
As I walked past the portraits of former students, my eyes landed on the shimmering golden plaque of some gold bloodline alum. Gold bloodline¡ªwhat a joke. I rolled my eyes, recalling the hours of history and sociology lectures drilling into our heads how these families, with their ¡°pure¡± magical lineage, are the best and strongest, destined to lead society. And yet, I couldn¡¯t help but remember the look on one ¡°superior¡± student¡¯s face last year when he struggled to lift a feather with his magic. A bronze bloodline kid nailed the spell moments later, just so effortlessly. So much for superior.
Sure, gold bloodlines are rare¡ª2% of Aldean society, according to the boring stats they make us memorize¡ªbut from what I¡¯ve seen, the supposed power tied to your bloodline rank is a load of nonsense. In fact, some silver or bronze bloodlines seem to have only grown stronger over time. The whole hierarchy feels like a convenient excuse to keep the same old families at the top.
The corridors have these massive windows that open up to views of the floating islands and the landscapes surrounding the academy. They¡¯re framed with enchanted glass that changes opacity at a touch, so you can get a pristine view or privacy when you need it.
Despite its labyrinthine design, by third year, you¡¯ve either got the layout down or you¡¯re doomed to wander forever. Some poor souls never figure it out though, even after six years.
I finally hit the ground floor, leave the chamber, and head down another corridor. It physically pains me not to take the right turn into the courtyard¡ªmy favorite spot on campus¡ªbut I begrudgingly take the left toward the Dining Hall. The food here appears like clockwork, each day different and freshly made. I¡¯m guessing with lots of love too because it¡¯s always delicious.
Standing in the doorway, I scan the room. None of my actual friends¡ªthe ones I¡¯d willingly spend time with¡ªare here. My brother, who¡¯s not on duty but graciously accompanied me back yesterday because he didn¡¯t want to travel alone, is probably still asleep and won¡¯t grace the world with his presence until at least 11 AM.
I notice a few groups scattered around, munching on breakfast. I recognize most of them. Two years here and I''ve somehow managed to get to know nearly everyone ¨C mostly by luck and often against my wishes.
¡°Ellie!¡± A piercing voice cuts through the air. I don¡¯t need to look to know it¡¯s Ariella Adair. ¡°I had no idea you were here too! It¡¯s so good to see you!¡± I wish I could say the same, but alas, not all wishes come true.
¡°Good to see you too, Ariella,¡± I reply, pasting on my best fake smile.
¡°Come, sit with us!¡± she insists, patting the seat beside her. Great. That¡¯s exactly what I wanted on my first morning back here. I know it¡¯s rude to decline, but I am so tempted. I sigh inwardly, resigning myself to the inevitable and take a seat, bracing for the boredom.
The dining hall stretches wide, bathed in the soft glow of morning light streaming through the tall, arched windows. The high ceiling is supported by intricately carved beams, and the expansive windows allow sunlight to flood the space, illuminating the banners of the various houses draped along the walls. By night, the hall transforms into a magical realm, lit by floating candles and chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow, making the space feel both majestic and inviting.
Silver platters gleam in the light, and the air is rich with the mouthwatering aromas of freshly baked bread, sizzling bacon, and freshly brewed coffee. Every mealtime here is an invitation to indulge. The murmur of conversations drifts through the hall, mingling with the clinking of silverware and the occasional burst of laughter from a nearby table. It¡¯s a lively, inviting space¡ªone that should feel comforting. But today, with Ariella sitting across from me, it feels more like a gilded cage.
¡°So,¡± she begins¡ªand if a story kicks off with ¡°so,¡± you know it¡¯s going to be a long one¡ª¡°we were supposed to spend the whole summer at the Summer Palace¡ª you know, that huge mansion hotel on the West Coast where we always go¡ªbut it¡¯s under renovation, so we decided to go abroad! My mom wanted to visit the Realms, but it¡¯s sooo far away, so we just went to Eldermere instead. We stayed at this villa near Rosemont. It was quite a humble holiday, but it did have its own beach and a vineyard!¡±
Humble, huh? I take a long sip of coffee, hiding my expression behind the mug.
Ariella¡¯s eyes light up as she continues, not even noticing my muted reaction. ¡°The villa had the most magnificent gardens! But, of course, nothing compares to the rose gardens at the Summer Palace. Still, they did try, you know? They even had peacocks roaming around the lawns¡ªthough, honestly, they weren¡¯t as vibrant as the ones back home.¡±
My gaze drifts to the tall windows, where sunlight pours in, bathing the room in warm, golden hue. I catch glimpses of other students enjoying their meals, their carefree chatter blending with the clinking of cutlery. Must be nice to start the day off without having to endure a play-by-play of someone¡¯s summer escapades. I¡¯ve heard Ariella¡¯s vacation tales a hundred times¡ªeach one delivered with the same perfectly crafted smile. Impressive, really, how she never misses a beat.
¡°Oh, and the shopping!¡± she gushes, her hands fluttering in excitement. ¡°Rosemont has these adorable boutiques¡ªvery quaint. I found the most exquisite set of hairpins and a new charm bracelet. Mother said it was a ¡®modest¡¯ spree, considering the local selection, but I think it added a nice touch to our trip.¡±
A ¡®modest¡¯ spree. I force my lips into another polite smile, suppressing the urge to roll my eyes. ¡°I¡¯m sure they¡¯re beautiful,¡± I say, and nod again, hoping she doesn¡¯t notice the strain in my voice.
I grab a plate and start assembling my breakfast¡ªa croissant, a few slices of fruit, and a chocolate muffin. I take my time, hoping the process distracts me. The croissant is warm, flaky, and buttery; I pull off a piece, savoring it as she goes on about her ¡°quaint¡± shopping spree.
I nod, trying to look interested. ¡°Sounds¡lovely,¡± I manage, though all I can think about is how much I¡¯d rather be somewhere¡ªanywhere¡ªelse.
I guess that¡¯s what a humble holiday looks like when you¡¯re an Adair. Her family practically sits at the top of the social ladder, just under the royal family itself. And Ariella loves to remind everyone of that¡ªespecially the first-years who might not yet be aware of her illustrious status. She¡¯s the eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Adair, a fact she will likely broadcast to every new student today ¨C a gold bloodline family through and through.
So, if you¡¯re wondering how I ended up with this pretentious group, that¡¯s how. Being born into the Alarie family and carrying the title of Archduchess, with a distant link to the royal family, has its perks¡ªbut it also means people like Ariella feel the need to latch onto you. It¡¯s all politics, even at school.
¡°So how did you spend the summer, Ellie?¡± she asks, eyes sparkling with curiosity.
¡°I was mostly at home in Aria,¡± I reply, keeping it vague. ¡°I should leave now; I don¡¯t want to be late.¡± With that, I make a swift exit, grabbing a cup of coffee and a chocolate muffin as I go. The quicker I get out of this, the better.
¡°Late? What duty are you on?¡±
¡°Gatekeeping.¡±
One of my favorite quirks of this place has to be the enchanted doors that swing open when you¡¯re close enough¡ªperfect for when your hands are full, or you¡¯re in desperate need of a quick exit. Like, say, from an awkward conversation.
Past the Staircase Chamber, the Entrance Hall sprawls out before me, unusually quiet today. Normally, it¡¯s alive with students, a constant hum of activity, but now my footsteps echo through the vast space, bouncing off the marble floors that shine like mirrors underfoot. The ceiling above is a masterpiece¡ªvaulted and adorned with enchanted frescoes that tell the story of pivotal magical moments. The images shift subtly, the figures moving as if caught in an endless dance that changes with the time of day.
The hall is a visual feast, filled with displays that seem designed to dazzle and distract. Glass cases hold rare and powerful artifacts, each with a detailed inscription recounting its origin and significance¡ªeverything from enchanted orbs and ancient wands to relics once wielded by legendary mages. Life-sized portraits and busts of the academy¡¯s most esteemed alumni and professors line the walls, and occasionally, they shift, their eyes following you as they briefly come to life to recount their ¡°glorious¡± achievements. The hall even has a section dedicated to outstanding students, complete with shining plaques and trophies that catch the light from the floating magical candles above. It¡¯s basically a giant, enchanted pat-on-the-back for all the overachievers¡ªand a reminder for the rest of us to ¡°aim for greatness.¡±
Then there¡¯s the Wall of Houses¡ªa spectacle in its own right. Six sections, each representing a different house, are carved into the stone with intricate motifs and accents matching their respective colors. Crystals embedded in the carvings shimmer and gleam, making the whole thing sparkle like it¡¯s trying too hard to impress. Each house¡¯s emblem sits proudly at the center of its section, surrounded by swirling patterns that apparently ¡°capture the essence¡± of each house. And, at the very heart of the wall is a magical display that shows the current house points. Numbers flicker and shift as points are added or deducted, right there in real-time. It¡¯s the ultimate motivator, fueling rivalries and keeping everyone just a little bit on edge.
The walls themselves are practically works of art¡ªbotanical patterns of vines and flowers twist their way across the stone, enchanted to look almost alive. The vines sway gently as you walk past, giving you the eerie feeling they¡¯re watching. Stained glass panels are nestled between these botanical designs, depicting scenes of natural beauty and magical prowess. When the sunlight hits, it sends a cascade of colors across the hall, the hues shifting and swirling like a kaleidoscope. Clusters of glowing crystals are embedded in the walls, casting a soft light that changes with the time of day. Right now, it¡¯s a gentle morning glow, the colors warm and welcoming. The overall effect is a space that feels alive¡ªlike it¡¯s trying to merge the wonders of nature and magic into one seamless experience.
Near the entrance is the massive notice board, brimming with announcements, upcoming events, class schedules, and club activities. The parchments pinned there are enchanted, constantly updating themselves in real-time, ensuring everything stays current. It¡¯s a hub of information, the kind of place you¡¯d visit if you actually cared about the countless events and gatherings the school organizes. I personally skim the headlines, hoping for something interesting, but it¡¯s mostly the same¡ªstudy sessions, club meetings, and mandatory assemblies. Thrilling.
The Entrance Hall isn¡¯t just a passageway; it¡¯s a vibrant hub of daily activity and it¡¯s where all the important school ceremonies, assemblies, and celebrations happen. Its sheer size can comfortably hold the entire student body and then some, which is perfect for the academy¡¯s tendency to host gatherings at the drop of a hat. For now, though, it¡¯s empty, waiting for the first-years and the chaos they¡¯ll inevitably bring.
I move on, cutting through the park and following the paved path leading to the main bridge. It¡¯s a stone construction with decorated railings and glowing crystals that give it a touch of elegance, but compared to Elysium¡¯s bridge, it¡¯s pretty basic. The walk feels longer than it should, and the occasional gusts of wind don¡¯t make it any easier. At the end of the bridge is a smaller stone building, same material as the bridge, blocking the sun but otherwise serving no real purpose.
Standing in front of it is the school gate¡¯s guard, facing away from me as usual. As I approach, it slowly turns around.
The guard is one of those beings you see and immediately think, definitely not human. I have no clue what it actually is, only that it resembles a human figure but with an eerie, otherworldly quality. Alive? Technically, sure, but it¡¯s not alive in the way humans are. It¡¯s more like a magical entity pretending to have a heartbeat. Its entire body is wrapped in a gray tunic, covered in symbols that look like runes, obscuring everything except its right hand. That hand, skeletal and gray, clutching a wooden walking stick, looks like it¡¯s been there for centuries¡ªwrinkled skin, long black nails. It stands perfectly still, always facing the gate but never looking directly at it, its head bowed as if deep in thought¡ªor maybe just bored.
As I get closer, it lifts its head, and I¡¯m greeted by the same face I¡¯ve seen since my first day: ancient, gray, and with eyes are completely white, devoid of irises, adding to its creepy appearance. It''s impossible to tell if it was once male or female, or if it even had a human form to begin with. It¡¯s like looking at a statue that suddenly moves.
¡°Sup?¡± I mutter, waving a hand. The creature seems to recognize me, lowering its head again and turning back to its eternal task of gate-watching. ¡°Rude,¡± I mumble under my breath as I move past it.
Just as I¡¯m about to continue, the guard shifts, turning back toward the path. I pause, curious, and spot someone approaching. A figure wearing almost the same uniform as me¡ªjust the male version. I recognize him immediately: Ash.
We started school together three years ago and ended up sitting next to each other on that chaotic first day after getting sorted into Elysium. This led to long conversations about the importance (and rather the annoying presence) of mosquitoes in the ecosystem. That lasted about a week, and thus, we became friends. It is quite beautiful if you ask me.
¡°I overslept,¡± he announces, which, judging by the state of his uniform and the boots barely hanging onto his feet, is the most obvious thing I¡¯ve heard today. His hair is its usual disaster¡ªuntamed waves that clearly didn¡¯t see a brush this morning, not that they ever do.
¡°Good morning to you too,¡± I reply with a smirk, holding out the coffee and muffin I¡¯d brought for him.
¡°And that¡¯s why you¡¯re my favorite person,¡± he says, downing the coffee in three massive gulps. ¡°But you should¡¯ve brought two.¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t want the muffin, just say so.¡±
¡°On second thought, I think one is perfect for today.¡±
On gate welcoming duty¡ªthough we much prefer to call it gatekeeping¡ªthere are always two third-years stationed, just in case one of us needs a break from the endless line of confused first-years. Students arrive between 10 and 12 AM, and our job is to greet them, make sure the guard doesn¡¯t decide they¡¯re intruders, and point them in the direction of the school. You¡¯d think it¡¯s obvious enough, but I remember my first year. Without someone guiding me, I would¡¯ve probably stayed frozen at the gate.
The gate itself is a sight. It¡¯s a waterfall that cascades from the top of the archway, flowing down to the ground below us in a continuous, shimmering sheet of water. It¡¯s like liquid glass, always in motion but somehow solid enough to block entry unless you have the permission. When the sunlight hits, tiny rainbows sparkle across the surface, adding a touch of enchantment to the whole thing.
Just as I settle in front of the top of the waterfall, the first student arrives. It¡¯s a boy in the standard-issue first-year uniform, and I could tell he¡¯s a first-year from how startled he looks when he arrives. At least this one didn¡¯t throw up after teleporting through the waterfall.
¡°Welcome to King¡¯s Academy!¡± Ash announces, all bright and loud. The poor kid jumps like he wasn¡¯t expecting anyone to be standing there¡ªdespite the fact that we¡¯re right in front of him. ¡°I¡¯m gonna need a name, please.¡±
¡°Uh¡ Lincoln Dustfinger.¡±
Ash pauses for a second, raising his eyebrows slightly as if to confirm what he just heard, but then writes it down without further questions. A tiny smirk plays at the corners of his mouth, but the boy doesn¡¯t seem to notice, still looking past us, trying to take in the view.
As Ash finishes writing the name, the ink vanishes from the otherwise blank page, and the booklet starts flipping through its pages until it lands on the sixth one, highlighting the name with a neat little tick mark. So, we did hear it correctly.
¡°Great,¡± Ash looks up, handing the boy a smile that¡¯s just shy of genuine. ¡°Just pass through the main bridge and enter the building. You¡¯ll end up in the Entrance Hall. Wait there until further instructions.¡±
The boy nods, takes a few cautious steps, and then practically jumps out of his skin when the guard raises her head and stares at him with those soulless, white eyes.
I can¡¯t help but chuckle a little. ¡°Don¡¯t mind Isadora; she¡¯s the guardian of the gates. Today, she only attacks if she senses danger or sees an attack. Since we let you through, she¡¯ll memorize your face and let you pass anytime from now on. She¡¯s a gem, really¡ªjust don¡¯t get aggressive around here if you don¡¯t want to¡ Well, anyway, go ahead.¡±
Chapter Two - Selection Ceremony
The Selection Ceremony was about to start any minute now.
All the first-years had arrived by noon and were herded into the grand hall for a riveting lecture about the school¡¯s illustrious history, the architecture, and other fascinating topics. I wouldn¡¯t know; I dozed off about five minutes in. After that, they were split into smaller groups and dragged around the castle for the grand tour.
The ceremony is scheduled for 6 PM, right after dinner. It¡¯s the only day of the year when the teachers don¡¯t eat with the students, and instead of the usual six tables for the houses, there¡¯s a seventh table just for the first-years. They say it¡¯s to help them ¡°socialize¡± and ¡°bond,¡± which apparently is easier when you¡¯re all the same age and equally terrified. Another ¡°special¡± touch for tonight¡ªno desserts during dinner. They save those for after the ceremony, so all the sugar-deprived students have a reason to cheer once the whole ordeal is over.
A little past 6, the massive doors of the Dining Hall swing open, and the entire faculty sweeps in. The background music, which had been playing softly, swells just enough to fill the silence that falls as the doors open. Of course, that silence lasts about two seconds before the entire hall erupts¡ªshouting, clapping, and many banging the tables to make even more noise.
They make their way to the podium at the far end of the hall, positioned under the enormous stained-glass windows that cast colourful patterns across the floor. The headmaster takes center stage, standing one step ahead of the rest.
¡°My dear students, welcome back to another enchanting and exhilarating year at King¡¯s Academy!¡± The hall exploded in cheers and applause. ¡°And to those of you who are new and eager to embark on your magical journey, welcome to your new home! I am your headmaster, Caspian Yarrow. First and foremost, thank you for choosing this esteemed institution to nurture your talents and expand your knowledge. It is a true honor to have each and every one of you here.¡±
¡°Over the next six years, you will be guided by some of the greatest scholars and schoolmates you could wish for, who will help you hone your abilities and chart your path wisely. Remember, everyone in this room¡ªincluding the faculty members¡ªwill become your family by the time you graduate. Lean on them for support, seek their advice, and cherish their companionship.¡±
Mr. Yarrow paused for a brief moment to let his words resonate. I glanced around, noticing how his words seemed to wrap around each new student, drawing them in. Some leaned forward, eyes bright with anticipation, while others nodded subtly, as if the headmaster¡¯s vision for the year was already becoming their own.
¡°I understand that introductions might not be what you¡¯re most eager to hear right now, so as per tradition, I will forgo the detailed faculty introductions¡ªyou will have plenty of time to meet and get to know them over the next few years¡ªand move on to what everyone has been eagerly awaiting: The Selection Ceremony!¡±
As per tradition, Headmaster Caspian skips the introduction of the houses for two very simple reasons: one, they don¡¯t want students forming biases before being sorted. They want each student to genuinely celebrate their selection, even if it¡¯s not one of the leading houses. And two, they¡¯re fully aware that every new student already knows everything about the houses anyway. ¡¯ll end up in or anything.
House Elysium gathers the brightest minds and most skilled leaders. They¡¯re the strategists, the ones who always seem to have everything figured out before anything even happens. Our black and silver colours give off this vibe of sophistication and strength¡ªvery we know what we¡¯re doing, and we¡¯re doing it better than you. I¡¯ve seen Elysium students remain completely unflappable during training sessions, calmly issuing commands and adjusting strategies like it¡¯s second nature. I¡¯ve tried to mirror that composure, but those who think I share those traits haven¡¯t seen me under pressure, that¡¯s for damn sure. I¡¯m more like a duck¡ªcalm on the surface, paddling furiously underneath.
House Seraphine is all about nurturing. They¡¯re the quiet, supportive strength behind the scenes, always ready with a healing potion or a comforting word. Their emerald green and bronze colors are soothing, just like their presence. They¡¯re the ones you want nearby when things go wrong because they¡¯ll make sure everything is okay.
House Aegis is for the brave souls who charge headfirst into battle, all valor and glory. They¡¯re the protectors, the ones who fight for what¡¯s right, even when it¡¯s tough. Crimson red and gold suit them perfectly¡ªbold and fiery. I¡¯ll give them this: their courage is impressive. But sometimes, it feels like they¡¯re rather pretentious, living for the admiration they receive. Heroic? Sure. But occasionally, it feels like a show, rather than genuine bravery.
House Astraea is the domain of the bookworms and knowledge seekers. Their royal blue and gold colors reflect their constant quest for wisdom. They¡¯re the ones who unravel mysteries and push the boundaries of what¡¯s known, always delving into magical theory and trying to decode the universe. It¡¯s fascinating, I¡¯ll admit¡ªwatching them dive into books so deep they probably know every page by heart. I¡¯m impressed they haven¡¯t gone mad from all the arcane details swirling around in their heads.
House Ingenium is where creativity and innovation meet. They¡¯re the inventors, the ones who craft new spells and magical artifacts that leave the rest of us in awe. Their amethyst purple and silver colors symbolize their experimental mindset and their willingness to push boundaries. It¡¯s thrilling to see what they¡¯ll come up with next¡ªalthough, to be fair, sometimes it¡¯s a little nerve-wracking when their experiments go off the rails. But that¡¯s all part of the charm; they¡¯re always pushing the limits, unafraid of the occasional explosion.
House Novitiate is where potential meets opportunity. It¡¯s for those who are still figuring out who they are and what they can do. Amber yellow and bronze reflect their bright, hopeful outlook. They¡¯re like a blank canvas, waiting to discover what talents they have. It¡¯s refreshing to see their enthusiasm, reminding everyone why we started here in the first place. But of course, some students, especially those in Aegis, look down on them, insisting that Novitiate is full of bronze-bloods who won¡¯t amount to much. The truth is, most Novitiate students haven¡¯t had the luxury of formal magical training before coming here. They¡¯re still learning the basics while everyone else has a head start. Honestly, it¡¯s a place where anyone can find their footing and grow, free from the expectations that other houses impose. Sometimes, I envy that freedom¡ªthe ability to explore without being boxed into a label.
¡°After your name is called, please come up to the podium. Once you are up here, you will enter a trance, which for us will be only mere seconds, but for those in it, it could feel like several minutes. The guarding spirits of the school will communicate with you and assess your personality, abilities, and traits to sort you into the house that fits you best. Then you shall join your house, but before you start getting to know each other, please wait for everyone to have their turn. You will have plenty of time this evening to talk. And now, let¡¯s start the Ceremony!¡±
As Headmaster Yarrow¡¯s speech continued, I found myself flashing back to my own first year, to my own Selection Ceremony. It feels like it happened just yesterday. Standing up there, the room felt like it was shrinking around me, pressing in. My hands shook like leaves, and I kept shifting my weight, hoping my knees wouldn¡¯t betray me and buckle. The air buzzed with excitement, but the fear was there, too, gnawing at my insides and making my stomach do flips.
¡°You? Frightened?¡± Ash let out a loud laugh, his eyes gleaming with amusement as he tried to imagine it.
¡°I have my moments,¡± I replied, rolling my eyes.
After the initial shock of teleporting to the school and gawking at its towering exterior, I¡¯d foolishly thought the inside might be less intimidating.
Spoiler alert: it wasn¡¯t.
The Entrance Hall had felt like a giant swallowing me whole. The marble floors stretched out like an ocean¡ªan ocean made of shiny, slippery tiles that could host a small army. I remember looking up at the vaulted ceilings, craning my neck to take in every detail of the frescoes that moved and shifted, telling stories I didn¡¯t yet understand. It was overwhelming in the most magical way possible. Awe quickly turned into a blend of wonder and panic¡ªmy two favorite emotions, apparently.
We waited for what felt like an eternity before a senior student finally approached us.
¡°¡®Sup, first-years!¡± she called out, her voice echoing in the massive hall. Immediately, every head turned, and silence fell like a blanket.
She had our attention. All of it.
¡°I¡¯m Mila Levine, a third-year and the Prefect of House Elysium, the current leading house of King¡¯s Academy,¡± she announced, her demeanor everything I aspired to be: calm, confident, and elegant. And, yeah, she was casually hovering mid-air while she said it.
¡°It is my honor to welcome you on your very first day at King¡¯s Academy. My fellow third-years will guide you through the building and the majority of the school grounds. You will be divided into six groups based on the alphabet. I will call out your names; please stand in groups.¡±
I watched as the other third-years started ushering first-years into their groups.
Being an Alarie, I was called out among the first. Once we were divided into a group of about 150, we got split again into three smaller groups.
¡°First group, come closer!¡± urged our guide. ¡°My name is Benjamin Solace, a third-year from House Ingenium. It is my honor to guide you through your very first tour around King¡¯s Academy, blah blah blah, let¡¯s go!¡±
He led us through a set of massive double doors into the maze of my nightmares: the Staircase Chamber. The room was an absolute spectacle¡ªstaircases everywhere, moving as if they had their own opinions about where they should be. Some spiraled upward in elegant arcs, while others stretched out, only to twist in a completely different direction halfway through. It was like walking into a chaotic dance of stone and wood.
I could feel my heart start to race as I stared at the dizzying display. Every step felt hesitant, and all I could think was how easy it would be to take one wrong turn and end up¡ somewhere else entirely. Lost. Or worse, falling into the endless void below.
¡°This is the Staircase Chamber,¡± Benjamin announced, a wry smile on his face. ¡°Try not to get lost. Or do. It¡¯s all part of the fun.¡±
His casual tone did absolutely nothing to ease the tight knot in my stomach. I eyed the staircases warily, knowing full well that this place was designed to mess with you.
I vividly remember how nervous I was every day for the first few weeks, knowing I had to pass through it. The chamber seemed to exist solely to confuse and disorient¡ªa twisted initiation into the academy¡¯s complexities. I woke up multiple times during those early weeks, covered in cold sweat, dreaming of getting trapped or falling into some dark catacomb.
¡°I will definitely get lost here like a dozen times. Or more,¡± Aidan whispered, leaning closer with a nervous grin.
I chuckled, nodding. ¡°Trust me, same.¡±
Benjamin continued, unbothered by the anxious looks some of us exchanged. ¡°The chamber spans seven stories, including one underground level, and serves as the central point for accessing all floors of the school. Saying you got lost is a decent excuse if you¡¯re late, but it only works for the first two or three weeks, so use it wisely.¡±
The walls of the Staircase Chamber were an art gallery-meets-botanical-garden, with detailed portraits and paintings depicting the academy¡¯s history and its most legendary moments. The walls weren¡¯t just about showcasing art; they were alive with vines and flowers growing directly out of the stone, enchanted to bloom all year round. The scent of fresh flowers mingled with the cool air, giving the whole place a weirdly calming ambiance. As if that was supposed to make the disorienting maze feel less terrifying.
Clusters of glowing crystals embedded in the walls provided a soft light that shimmered across the chamber. The crystals changed color as you moved, casting an ever-shifting array of hues that danced along the walls and staircases. It was mesmerizing¡ªlike walking through a living, breathing dream. Natural light also poured in through the massive, intricately designed windows in the ceiling, flooding the space during the day and transforming into a view of a starry sky at night.
¡°It¡¯s like a botanical garden meets an art gallery,¡± I muttered, trying to take in the sheer amount of details without getting dizzy.
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¡°Welcome to the maze,¡± Benjamin said, leading us up a grand, sweeping staircase with polished stone steps and intricately carved banisters, featuring motifs of mythical creatures and magical symbols that seem to come alive under the touch of light.
Each floor was connected by these grand staircases, but there were also smaller staircases¡ªboth straight and spiral¡ªsnaking through the chamber. They offered multiple paths, adding to the labyrinth vibe.
On each landing, small alcoves and niches house statues and magical artifacts, each with its own story and significance. These artifacts range from ancient tomes and enchanted weapons to mysterious relics, each one adding to the sense of wonder and discovery.
Benjamin didn¡¯t waste a second, weaving through the labyrinth of corridors with a casual confidence that suggested he¡¯d done this a thousand times.
The hallways stretched on forever, lined with portraits of former students and teachers who all seemed to share the same hobby¡ªstaring at us. Every painting¡¯s eyes followed our movements, and I felt a chill crawl up my spine when we passed a particularly stern-looking headmaster from centuries past, his gaze sharp and disapproving.
¡°Welcome to King¡¯s Academy, where the walls have ears and the paintings have eyes,¡± Benjamin quipped, catching the uneasy looks on our faces. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll get used to it. Or, you know, you won¡¯t.¡±
He moved us quickly through the first four floors, pointing out classrooms with a casual wave. ¡°On these floors, you¡¯ll mostly find classrooms, so nothing too exciting.¡± He occasionally gestured at a door, giving a brief explanation like, ¡°Potions lab. Don¡¯t blow anything up near the third shelf on the left,¡± or ¡°Ancient Runes class¡ªnever be late or you¡¯ll be doing extra homework for the rest of the year.¡±
When we reached what looked like a dead end on the third floor, Benjamin suddenly lowered his voice and motioned for us to come closer.
¡°Behind this enchanted wall is the Janitor¡¯s Shed. If you ever get the bright idea to prank someone¡ªwhich, of course, is highly forbidden¡ªyou definitely want to avoid this floor. Unless,¡± he paused, his voice dropping even quieter, ¡°you¡¯re thinking of pranking Skell. Our janitor here is a Half-Orc, immune to all magic. Just thought you might wanna know.¡±
He took a step back, cleared his throat and resumed his normal volume.
¡°So, this is the Janitor¡¯s Shed, the domain of Skell Tohmrok and his cat, a cursed succubus named Azerafeli. Skell keeps the place running smoothly, and he¡¯s also the one you¡¯ll be seeing during detentions. Sometimes he even hosts students here¡ªjust one or two at a time. It¡¯s pretty cozy, and he makes a mean black tea.¡± He cleared his throat again. ¡°Or so I heard. Not that I¡¯d know personally, of course.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.
¡°Anyway, moving on¡¡±
On the fifth floor, we passed by the library, a vast, towering room lined with rows upon rows of ancient books and scrolls. The air was thick with the scent of old parchment, ink, and just a hint of lavender from the enchanted candles that lit the space.
¡°This is the library,¡± Benjamin announced with a flourish. ¡°Home to more books than you could read in a lifetime, and probably a few that would read you instead.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but smirk at his joke. It was the first time since arriving that I felt a little more at ease.
Every so often during the tour, he¡¯d point down a hallway or nod toward an upcoming turn. ¡°That corridor leads to the east tower, but we¡¯re not going there today,¡± or, ¡°Take that turn if you ever feel like a quick cardio session up the spiral stairs to the west tower.¡± He always made it sound like we were missing out on something exciting, even though I was pretty sure he just didn¡¯t want to lead us up and down any more staircases than necessary. Can¡¯t say I blamed him.
¡°There are seven towers of the school. The first one you definitely noticed when you arrived. It¡¯s the tallest and biggest one, right in the middle, almost directly above the Entrance Hall. That¡¯s the Headmaster¡¯s Tower, which you won¡¯t have to see in person often¡ªif you¡¯re lucky. At the top is the Headmaster¡¯s Office, and you¡¯ll only go there if you¡¯ve done something really bad¡ªor really good. Personally, I¡¯ve never seen it, which is surprising even to me, but hey, I still have three years to make it happen.¡± Benjamin shrugged, like the prospect of landing in the headmaster¡¯s office was just another casual life goal. ¡°Below the office are the administrative floors, and the lowest level houses the detention room. I¡¯m sure I¡¯ll see some of you there.¡±
He moved on, still walking through the corridors with that effortless ease. ¡°The others are specialized for certain fields of study. We¡¯ve got the Astral Tower, the Elemental Tower, and the Scholar¡¯s Tower on the right side of the school. On the left, we have the Healing Tower, and behind it, somewhat connected, is the Mage¡¯s Tower¡ªwhere most of the duels and combat training happen. Convenient setup, right? Finally, there¡¯s the Innovator¡¯s Tower, my personal favorite. If you end up in House Ingenium, that¡¯s where your bridge to the dormitory opens.¡±
As we wound our way back toward our starting point, I figured the tour was over. But when we got to the ground floor of the Staircase Chamber, Benjamin veered right instead of left toward the Entrance Hall.
He led us down another corridor, and we got a quick peek into the grand dining hall through the open doorway¡ªjust enough to catch a glimpse of the long tables and the flickering chandeliers, but not enough to linger. He guided us down the nicest corridor yet: simple in design, but the entire wall was made of glass, offering a perfect view of one of the dorms on the left and the expansive courtyard on the right.
Instead of taking us that way, he led us through the grand glass doors and out into the courtyard. It was a sight¡ªlush gardens, sparkling fountains, and winding pathways that felt like something out of a fairy tale. Enchanted flowers bloomed in every color imaginable, their petals glowing with magical hues, and the sound of water trickling from the fountains created a serene, almost mesmerizing atmosphere. Comfortable benches and secluded nooks were tucked between the greenery, perfect for reading, studying, or gossiping in peace.
¡°If you want to study outside, get here early,¡± Benjamin advised. ¡°The best spots go fast during the warmer months. And, heads up¡ªwe often have smaller parties or games here. You¡¯re all welcome to join, but don¡¯t wait for an invitation. They¡¯re mostly spontaneous.¡±
¡°This place is beautiful,¡± a girl beside me whispered, her eyes wide as she took it all in. She clapped a hand over her mouth, as if she hadn¡¯t meant to say it out loud.
I chuckled softly, but I couldn¡¯t disagree. The place did have a certain magic to it.
¡°Yeah, it grows on you,¡± Benjamin replied with a grin. ¡°Kind of like a magical fungus.¡±
From the courtyard, Benjamin led us back to the Entrance Hall, but this time, we approached it from the outside. He stayed silent, letting us soak in the view for ourselves.
The entire school and its grounds sit on a collection of floating islands, the King¡¯s Isles, which are nothing short of an architectural marvel. As we walked, I took in the view¡ªthe islands stretched out, giving us miles of visibility, yet ancient magic kept us hidden from anyone watching from below. The whole setup was equal parts breathtaking and a little unsettling.
One of the smaller islands off to the side hosted the famed Sacred Willowtree. I¡¯d read about it, of course¡ªevery first-year does. The tree had this soft, warm, whitish glow, like someone had stuffed it full of enchanted fireflies. They say it¡¯s grown from the seeds of the Etherealon Tree and radiates protective magic that keeps the academy shielded. The magic¡¯s invisible most of the time, but if you squint, you might catch a shimmer in the sky.
I noticed that only one of the eight smaller islands had a bridge leading directly to the school grounds. The rest were connected to the main building itself. If my guess was right, six of those were the dormitories, each floating on its own little island. And if I¡¯m correct, the seventh island is for the faculty¡¯s apartments.
The grounds of the school were just as enchanting as everything else¡ªparks, smaller forests, serene lakes, greenhouses, and other buildings dotted the landscape. The pathways, lined with luminescent stones, looked like they belonged in another labyrinth, one I¡¯d have to figure out eventually.
As we neared the main building again, I paid closer attention to the details. Towers of varying heights pierced the sky, each one adorned with carvings that practically hummed with magic. The castle¡¯s exterior, made from some kind of luminous stone, glowed under the sunlight, giving everything this soft, ethereal halo. Vines and leaves wove in and out of the stone, like the architecture and nature had decided to strike a perfect balance.
Sunlight streamed through windows of all shapes and sizes, casting intricate patterns on the floors and walls inside. The designs of the windows refracted light in this mesmerizing dance of colors, shifting as we moved. Some parts of the building had ceiling windows that flooded the rooms with natural light, offering a crystal-clear view of the sky above. The spires atop the towers sparkled, like someone had sprinkled them with stardust.
Once back at the Entrance Hall, we were instructed to wait until the beginning of the Selection Ceremony.
¡°I need to get another group of first years on a tour,¡± Benjamin said as a form of goodbye and marched away before anyone could digest his words.
And just like that, we were left alone again.
When I noticed that none of the groups left after arriving, I began to anticipate something to happen. And thankfully, we did move on to a new program point, however¡
¡°Now that you are all back and have seen the school, let us introduce you to the long and glorious history of the academy.¡±
Fantastic.
I wish I could recite anything from it, but the truth is, I may have fallen asleep after the second sentence. In my defense, the voice droning on was about as captivating as watching paint dry.
Thankfully, Aidan didn¡¯t bother to wake me up and let me stay blissfully unconscious. I think he even shooed away another student who was about to nudge me awake. Heroic, really. I only woke up when I felt Aidan gently tapping my arm, the crowd beginning to stir as we were finally instructed to head to the dining hall.
¡°Nice of you to finally join us,¡± he whispered with a smirk as we marched in.
¡°Did I snore?¡±
¡°Nope. But you did groan.¡±
The Selection Ceremony was easily one of the wildest things that ever happened to me¡ªand trust me, that says a lot. I¡¯m not sure what I expected, but it certainly wasn¡¯t.
¡°Welcome!¡± The voice boomed, and I spun around, expecting to find someone, anyone¡ªbut instead, I found myself in an endless room of light. It wasn¡¯t blinding though; it was just fine.
It took me a moment to realize: I was in a trance.
¡°Ehm, hi?¡± I ventured, trying to sound casual.
¡°Don¡¯t bother to find me, child, as I do not possess a physical body,¡± the voice replied, sounding like it was old enough to have seen entire civilizations rise and fall. But somehow, there was a gentleness to it too.
¡°Right. Sorry.¡±
Doing great so far.
¡°As you might be aware, I can read your thoughts and see your past memories, only so I can guide you on the right path for you. I will be asking you a few questions too, if you don¡¯t mind, as I prefer to hear the answers from you¡ªthat tells a lot about one¡¯s personality too. Is that alright for you¡¡± The voice hesitated, ¡°On which one of your names would you like me to call you, child?¡±
¡°Ellie,¡± I said without missing a beat. ¡°My name is Elayne Alarie. But I prefer Ellie.¡±
¡°Alright, Ellie.¡± The voice sounded like it was smiling, if that was even possible. ¡°Tell me, what kind of person do you think you are?¡±
¡°Well¡ I¡¡±
I¡¯ve got no idea.
¡°Let me ask differently. If your friends or your brother were asked what kind of person you are, what would you hope they¡¯d say?¡±
¡°I think I¡¯d want them to believe that I am a nice person. Someone who is fun to talk to and be around. Someone who is helpful and understanding.¡±
¡°Kindness and empathy. Both very important traits in a human, and both are present in you, based on your past memories,¡± the voice replied before moving on. ¡°In a dangerous situation, what is your first thought?¡±
¡°Run or hide.¡±
The voice laughed¡ªa deep, hearty sound that almost made me smile. ¡°And what do you actually do in dangerous situations?¡±
¡°Unfortunately, neither of those.¡±
Another laugh. ¡°Yes, you do show bravery and courage in dire situations, but your calm demeanor in these moments speaks the loudest. Even at the most emotional times, you seem to be able to keep yourself collected and think straight.¡±
Was he sure about that? I was half-tempted to let him know that I usually freak out on the inside, but maybe that¡¯s a conversation for another day.
The voice paused, almost as if it were considering its next move. ¡°What subjects are you most looking forward to?¡±
¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t have a preference. I¡¯m curious about all of them, but not one in particular.¡±
¡°You do have a thirst for knowledge, but you seem to take care of it on your own. If you find a topic that interests you, you won¡¯t stop learning about it until your curiosity is satisfied. And you have experimented with creating your very own unique magic spells. Very interesting.¡±
¡°Is it?¡±
¡°Oh, it is, my dear. You are a hard one to place. All houses describe you so well, yet none describe you enough.¡±
I tilted my head, trying to meet the voice¡¯s gaze¡ªeven though there wasn¡¯t one. ¡°What do you mean?¡±
¡°You are too prepared and trained to fit in the Novitiate; that is the only house I am sure wouldn¡¯t be a good match for you. While you would be comfortable there, it wouldn¡¯t encourage you to grow to your full potential.¡±
I guess I¡¯ll take that as a compliment.
¡°You have the creativity and experimental mindset of those in Ingenium, but not enough that I would be confident that is your place. It might lead you to become a scientist, but could also cause you to lose interest in the long run. You have the thirst for knowledge like a true Astraea, but your curiosity can fade as quickly as it appears. Scholars should have an infinite desire to learn, and you might grow bored too easily.¡±
I nodded along as if it meant anything to me - the repetitive motion was just a learned action to show I¡¯m engaged in communications, since I often received growing up that I don¡¯t pay attention even when I did.
¡°You possess the bravery and courage that is required for an Aegis, but you lack the confidence they possess, and I fear you may never fully reach that level. You value kindness, generosity, and empathy¡ªtraits found in Seraphine. However, you don¡¯t belong behind the front lines, hidden away. You have the talent to support, but you should be at the forefront. You protect others by thinking, rather than doing: you possess a mind that should lead.¡±
Is this the right time to let him know that my strategy in a crisis is usually ¡°panic quietly¡± or should we leave this conversation for another time?
He gave me a moment to process it all.
¡°I have made up my mind,¡± he finally said. ¡°You belong to House Elysium.¡±
When I opened my eyes¡ªwhich I hadn¡¯t even realized were closed¡ªI found myself staring at the black and silver windows behind the Headmaster on the far right. They glowed brightly, signaling Elysium¡¯s choice. Almost instantly, the room erupted into loud cheers, clapping, and table-banging from the Elysium row.
Turning to face my new housemates, I gave them a shy smile before making my way to the table where my brother was already waiting for me.
As I walked the few steps toward my table, I glanced down at my feet and noticed that the color of my skirt and tights had changed: the originally white fabric had transformed into a gray skirt and black tights to match my house¡¯s colors.
I¡¯d seen it happen to other students¡ªtheir uniforms shifting as they were sorted¡ªbut I¡¯d expected to feel something, maybe like a soft electric current running through my skin. Instead, I hadn¡¯t felt a thing until I saw it.
¡°We¡¯ve got two in a row!¡± someone shouted further down the table, but before I could figure out who it was, I was bombarded with questions from my new housemates.
Now, three years later, as I took my seat at the Elysium table, I watched the first-years with their wide eyes and nervous fidgets, a wave of nostalgia washing over me. I remembered standing there, feeling my heart pound in my chest. Now, the once-intimidating hall felt like home.
I glanced at my housemates¡ªeveryone caught up in their own conversations, laughter echoing around me. They weren¡¯t just classmates anymore; they were family.
Turning to Aidan, I grinned. ¡°Ready for another year of chaos?¡±
He laughed. ¡°Always.¡±
Then, the Headmaster began calling out the first-years one by one, and the ceremony continued.