The sun's first rays lit the majestic keep of the University of Brancourt deep in the heart of the Royal sector of the city. To Ellie, the university looked less like a place of learning and more like an ancient fortress. The expansive cathedral-esque building towered over them, casting a long shadow over the white stone courtyard where hundreds of people gathered. It was grander than she had imagined, with its tall spires and gothic architecture. Adjoining towers and annexes promised more knowledge than one could possibly consume in a lifetime.

Scarf, shimmering beside her, mirroring her expression of awe. Her unique appearance drew the attention of many of the gathered people. As she looked through the crowd, she realised quickly that a lot of them were new aspiring students and their families.

“C’mon let’s go,” said Karn as made his way towards the front doors. Murmurs and hushed whispers followed them as they moved through the courtyard.

"I knew Scarf would be a sensation," Ellie mused, casting a fond glance at the Elementlet.

“Well, the master did tell you to bring her along,” replied Karn.

Hope chuckled, "And here I thought Ralina would be the one drawing all the attention."

Ralina harumphed.

Ellie smiled and glanced towards the Felren woman. Her wild eyes and fluid cat like movements hinted at her true nature. Everything about her shouted she was more in tune with the wilderness than the structured world of humans.

“There’s a few staring at you too Ellie,” commented Hope.

Ellie idly played with her hair as she moved known very well that red hair was an abnormality in these lands.

Karn grinned as he eyed his little group, "We should've known better. We do stand out."

Ellie noticed a few young female students attempting to approach Scarf. "It's alright," she assured the timidly advancing students. "She's friendly, just don't try to touch without asking."

The timid students to shy to approach any further let out a little squeak and disappeared into the crowd.

Ralina smirked. “Try not to scare everyone off.”

Karn chuckled, while Ellie patted the water Elementlets watery skin.

As the group ventured deeper into the university grounds, it wasn't just Scarf's presence that was a topic of intrigue. An unusually high number of the General’s troops patrolled the vicinity, their armour clinking and eyes scanning the surroundings with hawkish intensity.

Hope, usually so calm, raised an eyebrow. "That's... a lot of security."

Karn nodded. "It's those tomes. Remember what Master Theodoric said? They're not just books; they're dangerous. And they need to be protected."

Ellie contemplated this as they continued to walk, the weight of the situation sinking in. On Earth she’d seen books as gateways to knowledge, but now here within this world, they represented so much more. They held the key to magic, to potential, to power.

But amid all the wonder and unease, Ellie couldn’t shake off the anticipation that buzzed in the air. This was the beginning of a new chapter, not just for her or her friends, but for the entire city and the world beyond. The future was uncertain, but it was laden with possibilities.

The University of Brancourt buzzed with excitement. New students from various sectors wandered the ancient cathedral-like structure, their eyes wide with wonder, taking in the grandeur of the place. A few students confidently strode down the hallways, their easy demeanour and familiarity with the surroundings. Not all the students were new.

One such student, with tousled hair and an air of assurance, glanced over at a group of tentative-looking first-years. "You'll get the hang of it," he called out with a knowing grin, "Just give it some time!" Ellie's gaze settled on the green sash draped gracefully around the older student's waist. It spoke of her allegiance, her social standing, and where she lived in the city.

Around their own waists, they all wore thin brown sashes—indicative of their connection with the Amber sector and a tribute to Lady Amber. Though their true origins lay outside Brancourt, these sashes were both a badge of protection and a potential target on their backs. The aim was to blend in and prevent unnecessary scrutiny. But in a world of factional rivalries and sector-based politics, blending in wasn’t as easy as donning a piece of coloured fabric.

As the group wandered the courtyards and hallways, whispers about their sashes reached their ears. Some were harmless, just curious remarks on the new students from the Amber sector. But others bore the tone of condescension.

“Ambertees,” a student, wearing a lavish purple sash denoting one of the Royal sectors, sneered as he passed them. “How did the likes of them even get accepted? Aren’t they all brutish soldiers and servants?”

Ellie shot him a sharp look, her fingers instinctively reaching for the comforting presence of Scarf by her side. But before she could confront the student, another voice interjected the older student from before.

"Don't mind them," said the girl with the green sash. "The Royal sector always look down on everyone else. It's their way."

Yet, the sash wasn’t just attracting negative attention. In a secluded courtyard, a group of students, notably without any sashes, approached them and eyed Karn with distain. “You’re with Lady Amber? King lovers,” one spat with contempt.

“We’re not—” Hope began, but Ellie silenced her with a subtle shake of her head. It was better not to engage. Since technically it was the generals’ men who worked for the King, before his true intentions were known, the sash-less student wasn’t wrong to think Lady Amber was a supporter for the King. But the real irony lay in their accusation. Karn, the so-called ‘King lover,’ was the very one who had brought down the cruel king.

If you come across this story on Amazon, it's taken without permission from the author. Report it.

Ellie remembered that fateful day vividly, the fall of Branside, the fierce battle, and the ultimate demise of the king. It was their collective secret, one they protected, especially now, within these walls. For in Brancourt, word of such deeds could sway allegiances, incite riots, or, in the worst case, get them killed.

As the day wore on, Ellie realized that the University was more than just a place of learning. It was a microcosm of the city's politics, prejudices, and passions. They had to tread carefully, be observant, and most of all, focus on what mattered.

Amidst the bustle of students and the looming shadows of the tall spires of Brancourt University, Ellie and her group found themselves standing in a quiet courtyard, glistening with the morning dew. Ancient trees arched above them; their branches heavy with leaves that filtered the sunlight into mesmerizing patterns on the ground.

A soft clearing of a throat caught their attention, and they turned to find a slender figure approaching them. Her silver-grey hair was pulled back into a neat bun, revealing small spectacles that sat on a sharp nose. Her eyes, though lined with age, sparkled with intelligence and a hint of mischief.

"Good morning," she greeted, extending a hand. "I’ve been tasked in finding and guiding you lot. I’m Master Parlin, the head of Spiritual Teachings here at the University of Brancourt."

Karn stepped forward, taking her hand in a firm shake. "Master Parlin, it's an honour. I'm Karn, and these are my friends, Ellie, Hope, Ralina, and," he glanced at Scarf, who shimmered in response, "this is Scarf."

Master Parlin's gaze lingered on Scarf, her eyes widening slightly in recognition. "Ah, an Elementlet. It's been centuries since one walked these halls."

Ellie nodded, pride evident in her voice. "She's unique and has been a loyal friend."

The master's lips curled into a smile. "Unique indeed. I hope to learn more about her during your time here."

Hope, always the curious one, asked, "Master Parlin, what can we expect from our time at the university?"

Parlin adjusted her glasses, considering the question. "Expect the unexpected," she replied with a twinkle in her eye. "You'll learn not only from books and lectures but from the very walls of this institution. The University has seen ages come and go, and it has tales to tell, if one knows how to listen."

Ralina, ever sceptical, raised an eyebrow. "And how does one 'listen' to a building?"

Master Parlin chuckled, her laughter soft and melodic. "Ah, my dear, that is a lesson for another day. For now, let's get you all settled in."

Ellie felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. Brancourt promised so much: knowledge, growth, and challenges. As Master Parlin led them deeper into the heart of the university, Ellie felt like their journey was just beginning.

Ellie was mid-conversation with Master Parlin when a familiar, deep voice echoed through the courtyard. “Ralina?” The voice seemed almost out of place in the scholarly setting, carrying with it an unmistakable wild timbre that sent shivers down one’s spine.

Turning, Ellie’s eyes widened as they landed on a figure she recognized — Kraid, the Kraven warrior. Towering and muscular, with raven-black hair that cascaded down his shoulders and piercing yellow eyes that seemed to capture the very essence of the skies, Kraid was a sight to behold. If the students were curious about the existence of Scarf, they were absolutely befuddling at the Kraven’s presence.

Ralina, upon hearing his voice, had spun around, her face lighting up instantly. “Kraid!” she exclaimed, rushing to embrace him in a warm, familial hug.

As they pulled apart, Karn stepped forward, his handshake with Kraid firm and respectful. “It’s been some time, Kraid. How have you been?”

Kraid’s eyes darted to Karn, a smile curving his lips. “Busy with the demands of serving under Drell,” he replied, his tone revealing a touch of mirth. “But it's good to see familiar faces."

Ralina nudged him playfully. "You always were one to understate things."

Ellie noticed the glances Kraid was drawing from many of the students around, particularly the girls who whispered excitedly to one another. She had to admit, there was an allure about him — a blend of ruggedness, mystery, and raw charisma.

However, Kraid's attention was solely on their group. In hushed tones, he confided, "The Matriarch, my mother, believes the return of magic might be linked to the grand crystal in Branside. She’s sent me to investigate, to learn more about this sudden surge of power.”

Karn looked thoughtful. "The crystal is leaking power?" He paused, the weight of his actions heavy in his voice.

Ellie caught Ralina’s subtle glance towards Karn, full of understanding. The events at Branside were still a tender subject for them all.

Kraid continued, "My brother and I checked on the crystal and it’s leaking the magic. That it's not just a return, but a flood."

Master Parlin, who had been silently observing, now chimed in, "The Master of the University has allowed Kraid here to attend as a student. This university has some of the brightest minds in the realm."

As the group continued conversing, Ellie’s thoughts briefly strayed to Charles. The mention of Kraid's allure made her mind drift to her own affections. In her heart, Charles was the epitome of charm and handsomeness in her eyes. Kraid might have the allure of the mysterious stranger, but Charles... he was special in his own unique way.

Shaking herself out of her reverie, Ellie focused back on the conversation, eager to unravel the mystery surrounding the return of magic.

Karn leaned closer to Kraid, his voice barely above a whisper as he broached a topic that had weighed heavily on his mind. "Kraid, there's something else. The Book of the Known. I want to understand more about its creation. More importantly, I want to learn how to enter it."

Ellie blinked in surprise. Enter the book? The very thought seemed insane. But then again, in a world where magic had returned, where Elementlets walked beside humans, and where great crystals could influence the very fabric of their reality, perhaps entering a book wasn’t so crazy.

Kraid's eyes, always sharp and vigilant, now held a deep intensity. "Karn, the new magic from the crystal is entwined with the Book of the Known." He paused; his gaze locked onto Karn's. "If what you say is true, and if you indeed possess the capability to access the book... then the fate of our world might very well rest on your shoulders."

Karn exhaled slowly, clearly burdened by the weight of his responsibilities. "That's why I need to learn more. To ensure we use this knowledge wisely and prevent disaster."

Kraid nodded resolutely. "I swear on the hearts of the Felren and Kraven that I'll assist you in this. Our destinies are intertwined. So, we must face this challenge together."

Ralina watched the exchange with a mixture of respect and concern. It was evident that the stakes were high, and the path they tread was uncertain.

Breaking the heavy atmosphere, Kraid suddenly looked around, his eyes searching. "Speaking of allies and old friends, where is Alec? The last I remember, the rock Elementlet was quite attached to you."

Karn smiled, "Alec's with Maze and Charles for now. They're handling some matters I think in the Amber sector."

Kraid's demeanour shifted at the mention of Maze. A shadow crossed his face, his muscles tensing subtly. "Maze," he murmured, almost distastefully. "I've never quite trusted that one. His past is a puzzle, and I've always felt there's more to him than meets the eye."

Ellie interjected, sensing the need to intervene, "Maze has been invaluable to us. He has his secrets, yes, but he's stood by our side through everything."

Kraid looked at her, then at Karn, his expression softening. "Perhaps. But caution is a warrior's best friend. And in these uncertain times, trust is a luxury we can scarce afford."

Karn nodded thoughtfully. "Thanks, we'll be careful."