Noah stirred from his slumber, blinking away the remnants of sleep. The clatter of the carriage wheels came to a sudden halt, and the familiar creaking sound signaled their arrival. His eyes met Cedric's, who was also roused from his nap, Noah having slept comfortably on Cedric's lap.

"We're here," announced the merchant, his voice resonating with a hint of satisfaction. The atmosphere shifted as Noah, still groggy, gazed at the sight that unfolded outside the carriage window. The endless road had brought them to the entrance of the kingdom. The imposing walls of Eldoria loomed ahead, adorned with banners that fluttered in the gentle breeze, showcasing the emblem of the ruling kingdom.

The banner, a rich red canvas, hung proudly, bearing the symbol of the empire. A pale circle dominated the center, within which a majestic and powerful black dragon emerged, wings spread wide and eyes ablaze. The intricacies of the emblem hinted at the kingdom's strength and authority, casting a formidable shadow over those who approached.

Cedric gently nudged Noah, "Wake up, kiddo. We've arrived." As Noah rubbed his eyes, the grandeur of Eldoria revealed itself, stretching beyond the horizon. The hustle and bustle of the city, the distant sounds of merchants haggling, and the aroma of various foods wafting through the air created a vibrant tapestry that welcomed the trio to the heart of the human land.

Jack, the merchant, approached the imposing gate of Eldoria, exchanging a few hushed words with the stern-faced guard stationed at the entrance. The silver coins passed swiftly from Jack's palm to the guard's gloved hand, sealing their passage into the bustling kingdom. Observing this, Cedric reached into his pocket, retrieving a handful of silver coins.

"Here, for ours as well," Cedric said, his tone casual yet appreciative. Jack nodded in acknowledgment, a silent agreement that echoed the camaraderie and shared responsibilities in navigating the kingdom's entry formalities. The metallic clinks of silver coins filled the air, marking the seamless passage of the trio through the majestic gates. Eldoria's heart awaited them, and the journey within the kingdom was about to unfold.

And as the trio entered, Jack and Cedric clasped hands in a firm handshake, their eyes conveying mutual respect born from shared adventures. "Safe travels, Jack," Cedric offered with a nod, and Jack reciprocated the sentiment with a friendly smile. Their brief alliance forged in the journey would now find its conclusion within the embrace of the walls of the empire.

Cedric went on to explain, "Magic is common, Noah. That's why, the kingdom is protected by a powerful magical barrier. Within the city limits, about 500 meters from the walls, magic is sealed unless you have a specific reason to use it. Remember the crest on that guard from before?" Cedric pointed out the small insignia adorning the shoulders of Eldoria's guards.

"That's a magic crest. They need one to use magic within the city. It's like a license, but with extra steps. Without it, trying to use magic is effectively impossible." Cedric emphasized with a wry smile, recalling his memory of the barrier.

Noah absorbed the information, his eyes darting around as he noticed the adorned crests on the shoulders of Eldoria's guards. The knowledge of the city's regulations unfolded before him, and a realization dawned that this kingdom operated under a unique system, where the power of magic was a privilege rather than a freely wielded force.

As they stepped further into the kingdom, Cedric guided Noah through the intricacies of life within Eldoria's magical embrace. The city, with its enchanted streets and lively atmosphere, awaited their exploration.

"Well then, Noah, let's go get you your license, then go meet Miss Selena," Cedric suggested with a warm smile as they strolled through the bustling streets of Eldoria.

Curiosity flickered in Noah's eyes as he asked, "Why only me, Mister Cedric? What about you?"

Cedric chuckled, ruffling Noah's hair affectionately. "Don't you remember, Noah? I live here. Got my magic license ages ago."

Noah nodded in understanding, then his inquisitive gaze turned to Cedric again. "Who's Miss Selena, Mister?"

Cedric's expression softened as he explained, "Miss Selena is a teacher at a magic academy. I'm a teacher too, and she happens to be a good friend of mine. You'll like her; she's kind and knows a lot about magic. Let's go get your crest first, and then I'll introduce you."

Cedric and Noah navigated through the lively streets of Eldoria, the kingdom bustling with activity. The air buzzed with excitement as people went about their daily routines within the enchanting walls. As they approached the official building, the grand structure loomed ahead, an imposing symbol of order and governance.

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The official building stood tall with three stories, its exterior adorned with sturdy wooden walls embellished with intricate gold borders that spoke of its importance. As Cedric and Noah entered, the air inside felt rich with purpose and anticipation. The grand lobby housed a bustling scene—people in various states of excitement, some chatting animatedly, others waiting in lines that seemed to weave through the spacious hall.

A worker, with an air of efficiency, stood at a polished wooden counter, her eyes scanning the room and occasionally directing individuals to different queues. Cedric guided Noah toward the line designated for magic crest registration, where adults, mostly, waited with a mix of anticipation and impatience.

Cedric, leaning down to Noah's level, murmured, "We're here, Noah, but it looks like we'll have to wait quite some time."

Noah's eyes widened as he observed the organized chaos around them, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling registration center.

Noah barely surpassed the counter, his small frame hopping up and down to catch a glimpse of the proceedings. Meanwhile, Cedric engaged in conversation with the worker, who, upon closer inspection, recognized him. The worker's eyes widened in realization, a grin playing on her lips.

"Well, well, if it isn't Cedric, it's been quite some time, back for more crest business?" she remarked, her tone carrying a hint of playful familiarity. Cedric chuckled, nodding.

"You caught me, Gina. This time, it's not for me but for this young lad, Noah."

Gina's gaze shifted to Noah, who continued his enthusiastic attempts to peer over the counter. With a sassy smirk, she teased, "Looks like you've got a lively one there, Cedric. What's the occasion?"

Cedric grinned, "Just helping him unlock his magic. We're here for his magic crest."

Gina's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Ah, youth. Well, lucky for you, Cedric, I've got a soft spot for promising newcomers."

As she prepared the tools for the crest, she bantered with Noah. "Hey, little fella, ready for some magic ink?"

Noah, still bouncing with excitement, responded, "Magic ink? Is it gonna help me shoot fire from my fingers?"

Gina laughed, her tone carrying a mix of amusement and camaraderie. "Not quite, kiddo, but you'll get to use your powers again. Now, sit tight and let me work my magic."

While Gina prepared for the crest, she continued to banter with Cedric. "So, what brings you two to the crest counter today? Any juicy tales from your latest adventures?"

Cedric leaned on the counter, adopting a casual stance. "Oh, you know, the usual. Teaching young minds, and maybe a touch of dramatic freefall training."

Gina chuckled, her fingers deftly crafting the magical emblem. "Always the daredevil, Cedric. Hope the freefall wasn't too dramatic this time."

As she delicately inscribed Noah's crest through her mind, she continued the banter. "You know, Cedric, you're lucky I'm the one handling this. If it were anyone else, they'd make your young friend here go through the whole special registration process."

Cedric raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Special registration? What's that about?"

Gina winked, "Oh, you'd have to fill out extra forms, attend special sessions, the whole deal since Noah's a kid, ya know? But lucky for you, I'll cut you some slack and fill it out myself later. Consider it a favor."

Cedric grinned in appreciation. "Much appreciated, Gina. You always know how to make things easier."

Finally, as the crest neared completion, Gina addressed Noah with a playful tone. "There you go, young mage. One magic crest, fresh off the magical presses."

Noah, eyes wide with curiosity, examined the small insignia now adorning his shoulder. "Wow, it's really there! Can I shoot fire now?"

Gina chuckled, tousling Noah's hair. "Not just yet, kiddo. Give it some time to settle in. And remember, no burning the baldies from the block!"

With the crest completed, Gina wrapped up the playful banter. "All right, Cedric, all set. Keep this young firecracker in check, will you?"

Cedric saluted in jest. "Will do, Gina. Until next time, thanks for the magic touch."

As Cedric and Noah departed from the crest counter, Noah proudly showing off his new insignia, the lively banter from before lingered in the air.

Cedric, having successfully navigated the bureaucratic intricacies of magic crest registration with Gina, counted out the required fee of five silver coins. "Here you go, Gina. Always a pleasure doing business with you," he remarked, handing over the payment. Gina grinned, tucking the coins away. "You know, Cedric, you're lucky you're a regular. Next time, I might just charge you for the entertainment."

As Cedric and Noah stepped out of the bustling registration center, Cedric assumed a more serious tone. "Alright then, Noah, next stop, school!" With a swift motion, he lifted Noah into a piggyback carry, the young mage gleefully enjoying the ride. Cedric, however, gave him a stern look. "Remember, no magic for now. We're in the civilian area, and they take these things seriously. Save the fireworks for later, alright?"

And with that cautionary note, they set off towards the school as they reached within an hour of walking.

And as Cedric and Noah approached the towering structure of the Academy, the awe on Noah's face was palpable. The grandeur of the three-story building, connected by intricate bridges, spoke volumes of the magical education held within. The walls adorned with magical runes and vibrant banners gave the school an air of enchantment.

"Noah, welcome to the Brighton Magic School Academy," Cedric announced with a touch of pride, observing the sheer excitement on Noah's face. The bustling energy of students moving about and the occasional whiff of magical essence in the air created an atmosphere of both anticipation and wonder. As they crossed the threshold into the academy, Cedric couldn't help but feel a sense of fulfillment, guiding his young apprentice into the realm of magical education.