The bus came to a halt near a wide plaza, the screech of its brakes pulling Courage from his thoughts. They were already inside Grand Cliff Garrison, the towering gates now a distant memory. The group began disembarking under the watchful eye of their instructor, Riker, who stood with his arms crossed, his sharp eyes scanning the students.
“Move it,” Riker barked. “Stay close, and don’t wander off. This isn’t a playground.”
Courage stepped off the bus, his boots hitting the smooth, stone-paved road. The sheer scale of the garrison hit him like a wave. Blue Orchid Garrison, with its quiet streets and modest walls, felt like a tiny speck in comparison to the bustling grandeur of Grand Cliff. Everywhere he looked, life teemed with energy and purpose.
The wide streets were lined with sturdy, stone-built buildings, their walls adorned with banners displaying the garrison’s crest. The air was alive with the noise of activity—the rhythmic clang of smiths hammering metal, the hum of conversations, and the occasional roar, screech, or growl of beasts.
Soldiers marched in disciplined formations, their armor gleaming in the sunlight. Some patrolled the streets, their hands resting on their weapons, while others stood atop the towering garrison walls, their sharp eyes scanning the horizon. Courage couldn’t help but marvel at the scale of the walls themselves, reinforced with layers of steel and stone, dotted with ballistae and mounted cannons.
The beast tamers were another sight entirely. Men and women strode confidently through the crowds, their beasts moving with them in perfect synchronization. Courage’s eyes widened as a hulking lizard with iridescent scales lumbered past, its spiked tail swaying dangerously close to onlookers. Nearby, a sleek pack of wolf-like creatures with silvery fur and piercing yellow eyes moved with practiced discipline under the command of their tamer. Further ahead, a young man led a magnificent bird-like beast, its molten-gold feathers catching the light, its sharp talons clicking against the stone road.
“Eyes forward, Courage,” Riker snapped, glancing back.
Courage quickly averted his gaze, falling back in line with the group. Even so, he couldn’t stop himself from stealing glances at the towering garrison walls, where tethered winged beasts perched on lookout towers, their keen cries echoing across the plaza.
As they continued walking, they passed a massive fortified gate leading out into the wilderness. Its iron doors stood wide open to accommodate the steady flow of tamers and their beasts. Some returned from the wild, their clothes and armor battered, their beasts bearing fresh scars. Others headed out, their equipment pristine, their eyes alight with anticipation.
Caravans rolled through organized checkpoints, their wagons laden with crates, barrels, and exotic goods. The merchants atop them shouted out their wares, their voices competing with the noise of the crowd. Courage spotted guards inspecting the contents of each wagon, their stern faces ensuring nothing illicit passed through. Traders haggled with soldiers and tamers alike, their animated exchanges adding to the vibrant chaos of the street.
Courage felt a mixture of awe and intimidation. The towering walls, the bustling crowds, the endless activity—it was unlike anything he’d ever experienced in Blue Orchid. Everything here seemed larger, louder, and more alive. He had dreamed of this moment, but now that he was here, the enormity of it left him breathless.
As Riker led the group further through the bustling streets, he began to speak, his gruff voice carrying over the din of the crowd.
“Keep your heads up and your ears open,” he said, glancing back at the students. “What you’re seeing here—this surface level of Grand Cliff Garrison—is just the tip of the iceberg. Don’t let it fool you into thinking this is all there is.”
Courage scanned his surroundings again. The wide streets, towering walls, and constant activity already seemed impossibly vast to him. Yet, Ricker’s words hinted at something even larger.
“This area serves as the backbone of the garrison’s operations,” Riker continued. “The soldiers you see patrolling ensure the walls stay secure. Tamers heading to the wildlands prepare for dangerous hunts, while others return with captured beasts or rare resources. Traders and merchants come here to strike deals, stock supplies, or ferry goods between garrisons. Every role you see here keeps Grand Cliff running like a well-oiled machine.”
He gestured toward the fortified gate in the distance, where tamers and their beasts came and went. “This is where the risk-takers gather, whether they’re hunting for fortune, seeking glory, or just trying to make a living. It’s a dangerous life, but it’s also what keeps our defenses strong and our coffers full.”
Riker stopped, turning to face the group. His expression grew more serious, his gaze locking onto each student in turn.
“Grand Cliff isn’t just what you see above ground. In fact, the majority of this garrison’s population lives underground—in the subterranean sections.”
Several students exchanged surprised looks. Courage furrowed his brow, trying to imagine what lay beneath their feet.
Riker pointed downward. “The underground makes up most of the garrison’s actual size. It’s where people live, work, and build their lives. Safer from external threats, protected by the layers of stone and steel above. This garrison learned long ago that if we want to survive the dangers of this world, we can’t put all our faith in walls and weapons alone. Below ground, we’re shielded from the wild beasts, the weather, and any would-be invaders. It’s where families settle, where industry thrives, and where the real heart of Grand Cliff lies.”
One of the students, a boy with glasses, raised his hand hesitantly. “So… the surface is just for work?”
Riker gave a short nod. “For the most part, yes. Soldiers patrol. Tamers train, hunt, and trade. Merchants and travelers pass through. It’s a hub of activity, but it’s not where people stay for long. Down below, you’ll find homes, schools, markets, and even the barracks for off-duty soldiers. You’ll see it soon enough when you’re settled.”
“Keep moving,” Riker ordered, breaking the group’s chatter. “You’ll have time to explore later. For now, stay in line and don’t get lost.”
The group marched onward, the bustling surface level slowly fading behind them as they approached an area resembling the entrance to a metro station. A wide set of stone stairs descended into the earth, framed by sturdy metal railings and guarded by two soldiers who stood at attention on either side. People moved up and down the steps, some carrying goods in crates or bags, while others chatted casually, their voices echoing faintly in the enclosed space.
Ricker gestured for the group to follow as he descended the stairs. The air grew cooler with each step, the sounds of the surface gradually replaced by the hum of machinery and the distant murmur of life below. The stairwell was well-lit, with faintly glowing crystals embedded in the walls, providing a steady, artificial light.
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As they reached the bottom, the subterranean level of Grand Cliff Garrison unfolded before them. Courage’s eyes widened as he took in the sight.
The massive cavern was a marvel of engineering and adaptability. Buildings of varying sizes and shapes were carved directly into the cliff’s stone walls, their smooth surfaces polished to a sheen. Many were adorned with vibrant neon signs, advertising shops, inns, and restaurants. The neon lights bathed the cavern in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a lively and almost surreal atmosphere.
Above, ventilation holes and carefully constructed shafts allowed beams of natural sunlight to pierce through, casting a soft, golden glow onto certain parts of the cavern floor. Massive ventilation systems hummed quietly in the background, ensuring a steady flow of fresh air circulated through the subterranean city.
The streets, though narrower than those above, were teeming with activity. Vendors lined the sides, calling out to passersby to examine their wares—everything from fresh produce and exotic spices to weaponry and taming gear. Groups of children darted through the crowds, their laughter echoing against the stone walls. A few beasts, smaller and less threatening than those above, trotted alongside their owners, drawing curious glances from the newcomers.
Massive stone pillars supported the cavern ceiling, their surfaces covered in intricate carvings that told stories of past battles, hunts, and moments of unity among the garrison’s people. Lanterns and light fixtures hung from the pillars, adding to the maze of illumination that gave the underground a vibrant, almost festive air.
Courage couldn’t help but marvel at the sight. Despite being underground, the place felt alive, a stark contrast to the simpler life he’d known in his small garrison. Every corner seemed to tell a story, and every person they passed moved with a purpose, their lives intertwined with the grand, sprawling structure they called home.
The group followed as Ricker led them deeper into the labyrinthine streets, the wonders of the subterranean city unfolding with every step.
The group continued onward, their footsteps echoing softly as they marched through the labyrinth of streets beneath Grand Cliff Garrison. The sights and sounds of the underground city, still vibrant and bustling, seemed to stretch on endlessly. Every corner revealed something new—markets brimming with exotic goods, towering statues commemorating past heroes, and groups of tamers huddled together, discussing their latest hunts.
For Courage, it all felt surreal, as if he’d stepped into a completely different world. The hustle and bustle, the neon lights, the hum of the ventilation systems above—all of it was far beyond anything he had ever seen in his small garrison.
As they marched, he noticed that the streets grew wider, the buildings taller, and the crowds more concentrated, all converging around a grand structure in the distance. His eyes caught the first glimpse of the academy—a sprawling complex that rose proudly against the stone cliffs walls.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of walking, they reached their destination. The Grand Cliff Garrison Beast Taming Academy—or simply "the Academy," as it was known to those who attended—stood before them in all its glory.
The Academy was an impressive sight, its large stone façade adorned with intricate carvings of mythical beasts and tamers in battle. Massive archways and towering pillars framed the entrance, while rows of expansive windows offered glimpses of the bustling halls inside. The roof was crowned with sweeping spires, each one jutting high into the air, showcasing the strength and prestige of the institution. Neon signs, a common feature throughout the subterranean level, flickered around the entrance, promoting the academy's various training programs and achievements.
Standing in front of the grand gates of the academy, an official from the institution approached the group. He was dressed in a crisp uniform, his posture straight and professional as he exchanged a few words with Riker. The conversation was brief, but the official’s expression was courteous and welcoming, as if expecting the arrival of new students.
After the exchange, Ricker turned toward the group, his voice carrying the same firm yet reassuring tone as before.
“Everything for you has been prepared inside the academy,” he began. “For today, you’ll have the chance to settle in. Take this first day as a break. You’ll be assigned your rooms, unpack your luggage, and get familiar with the layout of the academy. Rest up, because tonight, you’ll be receiving your official welcoming speech at the meeting hall.”
He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in before continuing.
“Tomorrow, lessons will officially begin.”
With that, Riker gave a nod, signaling that the group could proceed into the academy. The official stepped aside, allowing them to enter, and the gates slowly creaked open. The group walked through, their eyes wide with anticipation as they entered the grounds of their new home and place of learning.
After an hour or two, Courage had already found his room and finished unpacking. The room was small but functional, with a bed, a desk, and a wardrobe. He spent a few moments arranging his belongings before stepping out to explore the academy.
He wandered through the vast corridors, taking in the sights of his new home. The academy was far larger than he’d imagined, with towering stone walls, sprawling training fields, and various facilities that bustled with activity. Students and instructors moved about with purpose, and the air buzzed with energy and anticipation.
Courage paid close attention, mentally mapping the layout as he walked. He located the library, the training grounds, the cafeteria, and the assembly hall where the evening speech would take place. Each place seemed to hum with its own unique atmosphere—some vibrant, others more subdued.
By the time he finished the tour, he was famished. He headed to the cafeteria for a quick lunch. The place was lively, filled with students chatting excitedly about their totems and the upcoming term. Courage found a quiet corner, quickly ate his meal, and retreated to his room, claiming he wanted to rest before the speech.
At his room, he made sure to close the door before sitting on the edge of his bed and thinking to himself, "Alone at last."
"Time to wake him up."
And so, Courage bit his thumb with his teeth, causing a small cut to bleed. He then took the bleeding thumb and wiped it on the back of his other hand, drawing a small line of blood on it.
It took a couple of seconds before anything happened, but then a teal-colored light faintly started to glow on his skin. From the glowing skin, a pebble emerged, and after a few more seconds, the small pebble transformed into a small flea-like creature.
Dan, the small flea-like creature, finally spoke after taking a moment to absorb his surroundings. He turned to Courage, his voice carrying a mix of relief and curiosity.
"Heh, hey kid. You succeeded, huh? Hope everything went well while I was... uh, absent."
Courage gave a small shrug. "Oh, well, as good as they could’ve been, I guess."
"Bah, anyhow," Dan grumbled, brushing off the subtle tension in the air. "I see we’re inside what seems to be... a living area? I assume that means you succeeded in finding an academy to start from."
"Yep," Courage replied simply, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
"Well, that’s good to hear! Enrolling in an academy was the part I was most worried about, but now that you’ve managed it, I can finally stop stressing over that. Now then..." Dan paused, his tiny legs twitching as if bracing himself. "Let’s see what we’re working with here. Give me a recap of everything that happened while I was out."
And so, Courage began recounting the events that had unfolded in the Core City. He told Dan about the creature he had chosen, his tense encounter with Ricker, and finally everything he’d managed to gather about their current location.
Dan took a moment to process all the information Courage had shared, then replied with a thoughtful tone.
"Well, first off, I’ve got to say—you got really lucky with that Riker guy."
"Yeah, I know," Courage admitted, the memory still fresh in his mind.
"Secondly—damn, all your siblings got accepted into the Imperial Academy? I mean, I knew they were naturals, but that far surpasses even my expectations."
"Heh, tell me about it," Courage replied with a half-hearted chuckle.
"And finally," Dan said, his tone shifting slightly, "your choice of beast."
"What about it?" Courage asked, his voice tinged with nervousness.
"Don’t worry, kid," Dan reassured him, a hint of approval in his voice. "I think you chose great. Based on everything I instructed you also considering the other options you mentioned, honestly, I think I would’ve chosen the same."
"Oh, great," Courage said with a sigh of relief. Then, curiosity creeping in, he asked, "Okay, now that we’re all caught up, what do we do next?"
"Well, right now, there’s not much we can do," Dan replied as in the matter of fact. "I suggest you just rest and wait for the lessons to start tomorrow. You’ll need all the energy you can get. Oh there also this speech you said happens tonight ,just pass time until tomorrow"
And so, Courage lay on his bed, resting as he chatted with Dan to pass the time. Their conversation drifted between lighthearted banter and bits of advice from Dan, helping to ease the tension that lingered from the day’s events.
Time seemed to fly, and before he knew it, the sky outside had darkened, signaling the arrival of night. Realizing it was time, Courage got up and dressed properly, ensuring he looked presentable.
With a steady breath, he left his quarters and made his way to the meeting hall, where the evening’s speech was set to take place.
Courage arrived at the meeting hall, with Dan hidden within his hair. He found an open spot in one of the back rows and stood among his peers. The room was filled with students, some chatting excitedly, others in nervous silence. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation.
As the room quieted, the minutes passed in silence. The hall was vast, with long lines of students stretching from one end to the other, all gathered for the evening’s speech.
Then, on the stage, a man in his fifties ascended the steps. His posture was straight, and his presence commanded attention. His graying hair was neatly combed back, and his sharp eyes scanned the room.
The man spoke, his voice clear and authoritative.
"Students," he began, the word carrying a deep reverence. "Welcome to your first step toward becoming true Beast Tamers."
The man continued, launching into a cliché speech, filled with well-worn phrases and predictable themes. He spoke of the academy's long history, recounting its noble past and the great achievements of those who had studied there. He explained the important rules all students were expected to follow and touched on old traditions that had been upheld for generations.
His words were nothing new or surprising, a list of familiar guidelines and expectations meant to reassure the new students.
Finally, as the speech drew to a close, the man’s tone grew slightly more personal. "With that," he said, "I wish you all good luck on your new path in life. The journey ahead will challenge you, but it will also shape you into the Beast Tamers you are destined to become."
The crowd shifted as he finished, and with a final, sweeping gesture, he dismissed the students. "Return to your rooms and prepare yourselves. Tomorrow, the lessons begin."