The towering gates of Fate Academy rose before the group of cadets like sentinels, massive and imposing, symbolizing the grand scale of what awaited them. Each step toward the gates was heavy with anticipation, excitement, and a hint of nervousness. Isaki, Lian, Rael, Ray, and the others couldn't help but exchange glances, as if silently sharing the realization that everything was about to change. However, before they could even absorb the moment, someone stepped forward from the shadows of the Academy.
She was unlike anyone they had ever seen.
A woman, likely in her early thirties, approached with a confident stride. Her long, light brown hair gleamed with coppery highlights that shimmered in the late afternoon sun, cascading down her back like a waterfall of silk. Her sharp, striking light blue eyes surveyed the group with an air of authority and mystery, and her full lips, painted a vivid red, curved into a half-smile that hinted at secrets untold. The large gold hoop earrings she wore caught the light, swaying gently with each step. Her outfit, though simple, emphasized her perfect form—she wore a snug, dark top that highlighted her curves, slim-fitting pants, and knee-high boots that made her figure seem all the more commanding. At her side hung a sword, its sheath gleaming with golden engravings, ancient symbols that spoke of craftsmanship and history.
The male cadets were struck speechless. Lian's jaw nearly dropped, while Rael could only blink, trying to process the fact that a woman like this even existed.
"She can't be real," Lian muttered, his voice barely audible, as though saying it too loudly might break the illusion.
Rael elbowed him, still staring in disbelief. "There's no way. She's… stunning."
The female cadets, however, exchanged glances of a different nature. Jealousy flickered in their eyes, especially in Sophia's. She crossed her arms, clearly irritated by the woman's perfect figure. Her eyes lingered on the way the top and pants accentuated the woman's curves, unable to ignore the sharp contrast between herself and this mysterious newcomer.
Isaki, on the other hand, barely noticed her beauty. His eyes were fixed on the sword at her side. Even from a distance, he could tell it wasn't just any sword. The engravings on the sheath were unique—golden characters in a script he didn't recognize, faintly glowing under the sun's light. It was a masterwork, likely centuries old, and its very presence hinted at power beyond normal understanding. Whoever this woman was, she was no ordinary guide.
The woman's voice broke the spell she had cast over the cadets. It was warm but firm, carrying the confidence of someone accustomed to being listened to. "Welcome to Fate Academy," she began, her light blue eyes sweeping over the group, reading them as easily as an open book. "My name is Jessica. I'll be your guide today." She paused, letting her gaze linger just long enough to make everyone feel seen. "You're the last cadets to arrive. The others from the three cities of Moirai are already here, settled in their quarters."
Lian shifted awkwardly, glancing around. "Uh… we're not late, right?" he asked, trying to sound casual but clearly flustered.
Jessica's lips curved into a knowing smile. "No, not late. Just the final group to arrive. But that doesn't mean you'll be treated any differently."
Rael, still struggling to form coherent words, stammered out, "Th-thank you, Miss… Jessica…"
She laughed softly, clearly amused by his reaction. "Just Jessica will do." Her eyes lingered on Rael for a moment longer before she turned and gestured for them to follow. "Come, I'll show you to your lodgings."
As they fell into step behind her, the group followed Jessica down a wide, paved path that stretched along the right side of the Academy. The road was lined with lush green fields and vibrant flowerbeds. The flowers were breathtaking, their colors ranging from soft pastels to vivid bursts of red, yellow, and purple. But as they walked, Ray noticed something odd. The flowers… they were blooming as the group passed by. At first, it seemed like a coincidence, but as he watched more closely, it became clear that the flowers weren't just blooming at random. They were responding to Jessica's presence.
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His gaze drifted to her hands. She wasn't making any obvious movements, but there was something subtle—a faint twitch of her fingers. To an untrained eye, it would have seemed like nothing. But Ray's sharp instincts told him otherwise.
- She's controlling the flowers, Ray thought, his eyes narrowing slightly. This wasn't the work of Aura. No, this was something far more refined. Only someone with mastery over a unique power could manipulate nature in such a way.
Sensing that someone was observing her too closely, Jessica glanced over her shoulder, her light blue eyes searching the group. Ray quickly ducked behind Lian and Rael, hiding himself before her gaze could land on him. She scanned the cadets for a moment, her eyes narrowing ever so slightly. But Ray had hidden himself well, using his companions as cover. After a few seconds, Jessica turned back around, a small, almost amused smile playing on her lips.
- There's someone interesting among them, she thought to herself, her interest piqued. Whoever it was, they were clever. And clever was always a good sign.
The group finally arrived at a cluster of tall buildings. Each one was at least ten stories high, towering over the surrounding landscape like sentinels of stone. Jessica led them toward the largest of the buildings, a grand structure that served as the student assistance center.
"This is where you'll receive your room assignments, keys, and uniforms," Jessica explained, opening the door to the building. "Once you have what you need, you're free to settle in. Remember, tomorrow morning, we meet at the Academy gates at dawn. Don't be late." She gave them a parting smile, her light blue eyes glinting with both warmth and challenge. "Good luck, cadets."
Inside the assistance center, the cadets were handed room keys, assigned room numbers, and given their uniforms. The uniforms were sleek and elegant—jet black with finely detailed gold trimmings. The jackets were fitted, with high collars that added a sense of regality, and the trousers were practical, yet stylish. The gold stitching ran along the seams in intricate patterns, they were clearly designed for both combat and formal appearances.
Once they had their things, Jessica gave them a final nod and turned to leave, heading toward the Academy. The cadets watched her go, her graceful figure vanishing into the distance as she made her way down the flower-lined path.
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"Which buildings are you all in?" Isaki asked, glancing at his key.
"I'm in Building 4," he said after a quick look.
Lian checked his own key. "Looks like we're in Building 7," he replied, motioning to Rael and Ray. "Guess we're splitting up for the night."
Rael grinned. "Don't worry, we'll see each other bright and early tomorrow."
Isaki nodded. "Yeah, let's meet up then. Good luck." With a final wave, he headed toward his own building, while Lian, Rael, and Ray turned toward theirs.
As the three of them walked toward Building 7, Lian suddenly spoke up, his tone soft. "Ray, I never got to properly thank you for standing up to Gaus back there."
Ray waved it off. "No need to thank me. He's not worth the trouble."
Lian looked unconvinced. "Still, Gaus is dangerous. He doesn't seem like the type to let things go."
Ray smiled, a calm reassurance in his gaze. "Don't worry. Nothing bad's going to happen. I've got it under control."
Lian was about to respond, but Rael cut in with a grin. "Lian, if he says so, he might have a plan."
The three exchanged a few more words before heading into their building and making their way to their rooms.
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Meanwhile, Isaki arrived at Building 4. Just as he reached the entrance, he saw Sophia and Arya standing by the door.
"Hey, Isaki!" Sophia greeted him with a warm smile, her earlier irritation seemingly forgotten.
Arya, standing beside her, looked at him briefly before offering a small smile of her own.
Isaki cleared his throat, feeling slightly awkward after the previous encounter on the ship. "I guess this is our proper introduction," he said, directing his words more toward Arya. "Sorry about the mix-up earlier."
Arya's smile widened, her eyes softening. "Don't worry about it. Let's forget it ever happened."
They exchanged nods, and with that, the three of them parted ways, heading toward their respective rooms.
Isaki entered his assigned room and took in his surroundings. The space was larger than he had expected—a comfortable bed, a sturdy desk, a wardrobe, and a large window that offered a sweeping view of the Academy grounds. He sat on the bed, feeling the weight of the day settle in.
"Fate Academy…" he thought, gazing out the window. "I'm finally here."
Tomorrow would be the first step toward the future he had been training for.