"Follow me," Master Parlin instructed, her voice echoing softly in the corridor. She led the group briskly through the winding hallways of the university. Each turn revealed another narrow passage, the torches casting flickering shadows on the walls.

Karn struggled to keep up with her pace, his eyes darting toward the portraits that adorned the walls. The faces of past masters stared back at him, their expressions forever captured in the aged and cracked paint. "So much history," he whispered to Ellie, who nodded with wide eyes.

As they approached a low archway, Master Parlin glanced over her shoulder. "Watch your heads," she warned with a hint of mischief in her eyes. "We're taking a bit of a shortcut."

Emerging from the narrow passage, the group found themselves in the expansive grand hall, its vastness momentarily taking Karn's breath away.

The ancient grand hall of the University of Brancourt stood imposingly. Its intricately painted ceilings, showcasing legendary heroes, scholars, and tales from ages past, drew his gaze upwards. The hall buzzed with soft murmurs and the shuffle of feet on the ornate floors.

Ellie gestured towards a vividly painted hero on the ceiling, catching Karn's attention. "See that?" She leaned in, her voice filled with excitement as she whispered, "that's Hilbard, the legendary poet who saved his town using nothing but words."

Karn raised an eyebrow, astonished. "Really?"

She grinned. "Maze told us with that story more than once when we travelled with him."

A flicker of recollection danced in Karn's eyes. Maze had a flair for the dramatic as a seasoned storyteller.

Master Parlin, noting their brief pause, hastened them with a swift gesture. "Quickly now, find your seats," she instructed pointing towards the many rows of wooden pews.

With Ellie, Hope, and Ralina flanking him, Karn led his group to a cluster of vacant seats. They eased onto the broad wooden pews, their sturdy frames betraying no hint of relief.

Karn shifted slightly, trying to find a better position. "These seats don't exactly prioritize comfort, do they?" he remarked.

Ralina chuckled, "Seems they want us alert and attentive."

Hope added with a playful grimace, "Or to test our endurance from day one."

Karn surveyed the grandeur of the hall, taking in the sight of students — nearly a hundred strong — seeking and settling into their places. Their soft conversations, full of anticipation and curiosity, melded into a gentle murmur.

The tall windows welcomed beams of sunlight, casting an ethereal light throughout the room.

Ellie, noting Karn's awe, whispered, "It's beautiful, isn't it? Feels like we're stepping into a fairy tale."

Karn nodded, "And the light... it's like the room is alive."

Master Parlin, who had been their guide until now, offered Karn and the group a nod of encouragement. With a graceful stride, she joined her fellow faculty members in the elevated alcoves, standing tall and watchful, like guardians overlooking their charges.

Karn's gaze darted across the hall, finally landing on Kraid. The Kraven warrior had chosen a seat at the back, attempting to blend in, but his efforts were in vain. His distinctive appearance drew the attention of more than several female students, who cast intrigued glances his way.

Ralina, following Karn's gaze, smirked. "Trying to be discreet, but he's drawing more eyes than a songbird in a hen house."

Karn chuckled, "He's always had that effect, hasn't he?"

Ralina shrugged. “Felren women never paid him much attention, since he isn’t one of our kind.”

All conversations hushed as a distinguished figure made his way to the front, taking his place behind an ornate podium. This was Master Theodoric, the venerable head of the University, and his very presence seemed to command attention.

He began, "Welcome, students, to the University of Brancourt." His voice, steady and resonant, filled the hall. "Here, your task isn't just to seek knowledge but to shoulder the responsibility of our lands and its people."

Karn leaned forward slightly, absorbing every word. "The world stands at a significant crossroads. There is a stirring, an energy that suggests magic, long dormant, had reawakened."

Whispers spread, and Karn exchanged quick glances with his companions. Theodoric, sensing the undercurrent of chatter, continued, "Despite my years and experience, the full return of magic and its implications remain a mystery. And so, this year, we've welcomed one hundred and one students."

“One hundred and one?” whispered a voice in the crowd. The significance was immediate. Everyone understood the importance of that extra seat. Karn's eyes met Ralina's; both silently acknowledging that the seat was likely for Kraid — not just a student, but a symbol of diplomacy.

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Theodoric’s voice pulled him back. "Your time at this institution is a unique gift and a grave responsibility. The world teeters on the edge of monumental change. Every moment spent here is critical, for you will shape our future."

The depth of Theodoric’s message settled heavily on the seated students as he continued his address. "Now, I'd like to introduce the esteemed Masters of this university, each a pillar of their discipline."

His hand extended upward, pointing to a young man dressed in blue robes. The fabric billowed slightly, reminding Karn of a clear sky on a windy day. "This is Master Waverly, the head of the Sky chapters. He specializes in event casting." With short black hair and a warm, approachable face, Waverly nodded in acknowledgment of the introduction as the students respectably applauded.

"Next," Theodoric said, gesturing to a familiar face, "is Master Parlin, whom many of you met upon your arrival." A murmur of recognition swept the room, and Karn exchanged knowing glances with the girls. “She will guide you on the ancient pathway of spirits.”

Theodoric's attention then shifted to a robust man dressed in earth-toned green robes. "Now Master Scoff, the master of the natural world." The man had a sturdy build, and his eyes sparkled with a curious intensity. "He'll be guiding you through the intricacies of Elementlets and the world of natural magic." Theodoric's voice deepened, stressing the importance of his next words. "It is essential to pay heed to his teachings. The resurgence of natural magic is likely tied to the principles he'll share with each and every one of you."

The sudden revelation had its intended effect. A wave of unrest washed over the audience. Those students with purple sashes, from the Royal sector, seemed particularly miffed. Karn leaned over to Ellie, whispering, "Do you know which sector he’s from?"

Ellie frowned in thought but before she could reply, Theodoric continued, "Lastly, we introduce the master of Alchemy, Marden Rin."

A cold dread gripped Karn's heart. Memories of the king's malevolent alchemist, who had tormented him with wicked experiments, threatened to drown him. His pulse quickened, and his face paled, drawing immediate concern from the girls beside him.

Ralina and Hope shared a concerned look. Ellie, always observant, discreetly squeezed his hand, murmuring soothing words. "You, okay?"

He slowly nodded, taking deep breaths to calm his racing heart.

The alchemist master, tall with blonde hair, stood out strikingly against the backdrop of the hall. His bright blue eyes sparkled with intelligence, and there was an amiable warmth to his face. Dressed immaculately in pristine white attire he nodded to the students below.

Master Theodoric, exuding an aura of quiet authority, took a moment to clear his throat before introducing himself. "While many of you might recognize me, allow me the courtesy of introduction for those who might be unfamiliar," he began, sweeping a hand over his grand attire. "I am Master Theodoric, not only the master of this esteemed University but also the lead archivist for the grand library. It will be my honour to impart lessons on history and," he paused for dramatic effect, "organize the Event trials."

The mere mention of the Event trials stirred a buzz throughout the hall. Eager whispers filled the space, and even the usually stoic teachers couldn't suppress smiles of anticipation.

Ellie leaned into Karn, her brows furrowing. "Event trials? What's that?"

Karn merely shrugged, equally perplexed, and Hope and Ralina exchanged glances of shared confusion.

Recognizing the confusion amongst a segment of the students, Master Theodoric continued, "The trials, for those who may not know, are a tradition here at the University. However, given the tumultuous events of late, particularly the infamous 'slave tonic' incident, we believe it's more vital than ever to reintroduce them."

Ralina whispered to Hope, "The ghost eye curse reached even here?"

Hope nodded, her expression serious, "Yes, the King poisoned his own people. Lady Amber said it caused rifts throughout the city's sectors."

Master Theodoric's voice rose above the murmurs, "We understand that tensions are high, and divisions have grown. The Event trials are not merely a competition but a means to bridge the gap, channel energy into constructive endeavours, and perhaps, foster unity. They'll serve as both a challenge to better oneself and an avenue to dissipate pent-up frustrations in a controlled environment."

A murmur of approval echoed through the hall, with some students nodding appreciatively while others looked on, still absorbing the gravity of the upcoming trials. As Master Theodoric's words hung in the air, Karn felt a knot of unease settle in his stomach. Trials. The word echoed menacingly in his mind. The memories of past challenges and examinations, in which he often struggled to showcase his true potential, flashed before him. His hand subconsciously clenched, the knuckles whitening. His thoughts lingering on the test on the mountain that nearly killed him.

Hope, sensing his tension, placed a comforting hand on his forearm. "Hey," she whispered, leaning in, "Whatever these trials are, we're in this together. Remember that."

Karn met her gaze, finding solace in her determination. But the shadow of doubt still lingered. "I just... exams and tests have never been my strong suit," he admitted quietly.

Ellie chimed in, "Karn, these trials might be different. And even if they are exams, remember, we've faced far greater. This is just another one, and we've got each other's backs."

Theodoric silenced the crowd and raised a white tome, its leather cover gleaming under the hall's light. Every student's eye focused on it, recognizing the symbol of learning and power it represented.

"This," Theodoric's voice rang out, "is the textbook of study you all might have heard about. A week ago, we took the step of confiscating it from our older students. I understand it may seem drastic, but this decision came after several unfortunate incidents. Some of the events described within this book were activated unintentionally, and the results were... uncontrolled."

Murmurs ran through the hall, whispers of speculation. There was no missing the gravity of the situation, the potential dangers and power the books held.

Theodoric continued, "Until we believe you can handle the power and knowledge contained within responsibly, these books will remain in our possession, safeguarded from any potential misuse."

He paused, gauging the reactions of the students. Karn could see mixed feelings; curiosity, frustration, and acceptance played across the faces of his peers.

Theodoric's demeanour softened, "Understand, this is for your safety and the well-being of all. Our hope is that, once you've undergone proper training, these books will not only assist in your studies but also help us. Together, we will delve into the mysteries of the recent magical anomalies affecting our city."

He took a deep breath, the weight of responsibility apparent in his eyes. "The University of Brancourt has always stood as a beacon of knowledge and hope. In this room, the next generation of scholars, mages, and researchers sits. Your journey here will be demanding, but the rewards are immeasurable. You will be the torchbearers, leading our city, and perhaps our world, into a new era."

As his words echoed in the vast hall, a tangible feeling of purpose settled among the students. Theodoric's speech had not just been a welcome; it was a call to arms, a reminder of the great potential and responsibility they all now shared.