The academy grounds sprawled across a vast expanse, enveloped by a lush canopy of trees and vibrant greenery. The academy’s buildings adorned the landscape, seamlessly blending in with the natural surroundings as if they were an inherent part of it.
As the ceremony progressed and more students flocked in, the hushed murmurs gradually swelled into an animated symphony of voices.
However, a sudden hush fell over the students as the headmaster and other professors made their way onto the stage. The professors settled into chairs while the headmaster approached a podium that commanded a panoramic view of the gathered multitude.
"Welcome, students, to the second semester of Lothern Academy's 542nd academic year!" boomed the Headmaster, his voice resonating with unwavering authority. "Today marks the continuation of your journey—a journey that will test your abilities, push your boundaries, and mold your future. You are the torchbearers of the next generation, and it is within the halls of Lothern Academy that you shall unleash your true potential."
A thunderous round of applause erupted in response to the headmaster's words. Aurelius joined in the ovation, his curiosity piqued. Surprisingly, the headmaster's voice reached his ears crystal clear, despite Aurelius being seated far away from the stage.
Valen glanced at Aurelius, sensing his perplexity. Leaning closer, he whispered, "Air mages can amplify his voice by carrying the sound upon the wind."
Aurelius nodded, comprehending Valen's explanation. The Headmaster resumed his speech.
"This year holds great promise, not only for the academy but also for the vast empire itself and the High Elves as a whole," the headmaster continued, his words igniting a ripple of murmurs throughout the crowd.
"But amidst great promise, peril lurks in the shadows, waiting to overpower us. Now, more than ever, we must unite and collaborate, forging together to confront the challenges that lie ahead.”
Aurelius and Valen shared a confused look as the headmaster's tone turned foreboding. Aurelius and Valen weren't the only ones confused at the headmaster’s words, and the once buzzing atmosphere transformed into a tense silence as the weight of the headmaster’s words settled upon them.
The headmaster's gaze swept across the sea of students, his eyes conveying a mixture of seriousness and determination. "You have been chosen to be here, not merely for your talents, but for the resilience, the strength of character, and the potential you possess. The world beyond these walls is constantly evolving and requires individuals who can adapt and overcome adversity with resilience."
The headmaster's voice grew even more resolute as he continued, "In the coming months, you will be tested. But remember, within every trial lies an opportunity for growth. Embrace the forthcoming challenges, for pressure shapes diamonds."
The silence was broken by thunderous applause, a testament to the spirit of the students. Aurelius joined in, his hands clapping together in unison with his fellow classmates. The atmosphere shifted, transforming from tense anticipation to a resolute energy.
As the applause died down, the headmaster's gaze softened, and a warm smile touched his lips. "But fear not, for you do not walk this path alone. The faculty and staff of Lothern Academy are here to guide and support you. Learn from one another, rely on one another, and forge bonds together."
Aurelius glanced at Valen, exchanging a look. The headmaster concluded his speech with words that resonated deep. "Remember, your journey here at Lothern Academy is not just about acquiring knowledge and honing your skills. It is about discovering who you truly are, uncovering the depths of your potential, and forging a future that will impact the empire and the world."
The students erupted into applause once again, their enthusiasm reverberating through the air. Aurelius couldn't help but feel that the speech was specifically targeted towards him.
The words of Augustus played back in his head, accompanied by the headmaster's speech.
Just because you're the sole High Elven Chosen doesn't mean you can accomplish everything alone.
The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.
Should he continue to conceal his identity, secrets, and abilities? Should he reveal who he truly was? It was a question Aurelius knew he would inevitably confront, sooner or later.
"And with that, I cordially congratulate you on the beginning of the second semester!" The headmaster concluded, stepping back from the podium and retaking a seat on the stage. Applause once again filled the air.
Another professor approached the podium.
"Quick note: If you haven't selected your electives yet, please meet at the tent on the right side of the podium. If you have, feel free to mingle with your fellow students and even some of your professors. We understand you just had breakfast, but refreshments and snacks are available." With that, the professor exited the stage, followed by the headmaster and the rest of the professors.
Aurelius looked at Valen as students all around them got up from their respective chairs. "I need to choose my electives, but I'll meet back here afterward," Aurelius stated. Valen nodded, and they went their separate ways, with Aurelius making his way toward the designated camp mentioned by the professor.
Under the bright sun, Aurelius arrived at the bustling tent where the elective selection was taking place. Students were engaged in lively conversations, poring over pamphlets, and exploring their options.
Aurelius picked up a pamphlet and quickly scanned through the available elective choices. Just then, a voice emerged from behind him.
"Can I assist you with something?" an attendant inquired.
Without hesitation, Aurelius decided to seek her guidance. "I'm new here. How does this process work? Do I simply choose a class from the pamphlet?" he asked.
"Yes," she cheerfully replied. "You identify the electives that interest you, then head over to the clerk at that table over there. He will confirm your selection and jot it down."
Aurelius followed her pointing finger to a nearby table.
"If you're new, you'll likely be taking several introductory electives. The more advanced classes have prerequisites, as you might expect," she continued.
Aurelius nodded, finding it all logical.
"How many electives can I choose?" he inquired.
"I would recommend choosing 2-3 electives, like most people do, although the maximum allowed is 4. Our class system follows a dual schedule, with three class blocks on one day and the other three on the next, alternating in this manner. Each class has a duration of 2 hours, and you can have a total of 6 classes, which, of course, will include your 2 core classes."
“I see,” Aurelius thoughtfully mused. “Do you have any elective recommendations? I am particularly looking for something rune related.”
"Yes, there is an introductory rune class I would recommend. What's your magical affinity?" the advisor asked.
"I don't have one," Aurelius answered, wondering why she was asking him this.
"You know that you need a magical affinity to create runes, right?" she questioned again.
Shit... Aurelius thought. He had completely overlooked that important detail. He had read about magical affinities being necessary to empower runes, but he hadn't realized the implications it had for him. It would definitely raise suspicions if a supposedly non-magical user suddenly started taking rune classes and creating runes.
The attendant quickly interjected, noticing Aurelius' flustered face.
"No, no, sorry. You're still welcome to enroll in the class. I was merely curious. In fact, there are other non-magical students who join the course solely to deepen their understanding of basic runes. Rest assured, you won't be required to create any runes during the introductory class."
"Okay, yeah, then I'll probably take the introductory rune class."
"Great," the attendant responded. "Oh, there's also a pretty infamous class for those without magical affinity. It teaches students how to counter magic without relying on magic themselves. The class is called 'The Basics of the Mundane,' and I highly recommend it to all students without a magical affinity."
Aurelius nodded with intrigue. "The Basics of the Mundane, you say? That sounds like a class I'd definitely be interested in. I'll add that to my elective choices as well. Thank you for the recommendation."
The attendant smiled and handed Aurelius a slip of paper with his chosen electives noted down.
"Here you go. Take this slip to the clerk at the table over there, and he'll officially register your choices."
Aurelius followed the attendant's instructions and made his way to the registration table. The clerk, a middle-aged elf with spectacles perched on his nose, looked up as Aurelius approached.
"Elective selections, please," the clerk requested, holding out his hand. Aurelius handed him the slip of paper, and the clerk carefully read through the choices.
"Introductory Rune Class and The Basics of the Mundane. Excellent choices," the clerk commented with a nod. He jotted down the selections in a logbook, officially enrolling Aurelius in the classes.
"Your schedule will be updated accordingly, and you'll receive a copy by the end of the day," the clerk informed Aurelius as he handed back the slip of paper.
"Thank you," Aurelius replied with gratitude. "I'm looking forward to these classes."
With his electives officially chosen, Aurelius left the registration table and joined the bustling atmosphere of students mingling and conversing with one another.