“‘Go to the Academy,’ they said. ‘It will be fun,’ they said.” I spoke to myself in the dark confines of my cabin, the words echoing off the wooden walls. The air was thick with silence, broken only by the soft thrum of the airship’s engines and the occasional creak of the vessel swaying gently in the night sky. I lay on my back in the middle of my bed, staring up at the ceiling, which was dimly illuminated by the faint glow of a lantern flickering nearby. An immense wave of boredom washed over me, feeling more oppressive in the stillness of the night.
After much deliberation, I had finally decided to attend the Academy, and my uncle had taken it upon himself to make all the arrangements for me and my cousin Astor to arrive via airship. Most people think spending four days in an airship might be fun, well at least for the first day. But that excitement quickly fades after the fifth time
you get yelled at for looking over the edge.
Outside my window, the world was cloaked in darkness, the moon casting a silvery sheen over the clouds. The stars glimmered in the vast expanse of the night sky, twinkling like distant lanterns.
There was absolutely nothing to do. During the day most of the crew were busy attending to their duties, while the few who had paused to speak with me seemed more intent on issuing warnings than sharing tales: don’t spit over the edge, don’t climb the rigging, don’t do this, don’t do that.
With a resigned sigh, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed and stood up. Perhaps getting out of this cabin would clear my mind. I slipped into the narrow corridor, the polished wood beneath my feet creaking softly as I walked. The air was cool, carrying with it the faint scent of salt and varnish.
As I moved down the hallway, my thoughts drifted to tomorrow when we would arrive any the academy. What would it be like? And more importantly how good will the food be?
As I walked the wooden borders beneath creaked as if they were protesting my weight.
As I reached the end of the hallway, I paused, contemplating my next move. There was one thing I could do, one person I could visit—the only fun option in this tedious journey. I knocked on the door to Astor’s cabin, eager for a distraction.
“Astor!” I called out, my voice echoing in the silence. “Are you in there?”
“Go away!” he shouted back, his voice muffled by the door. “I’m not coming out until we land!”
I chuckled despite myself. Astor’s fear of heights was something he had since he was a kid. I could picture him huddled in the corner of his darkened room, clutching a pillow like a lifeline. “Come on! It’s just a little airship. You can’t hide in there forever!”
There was a moment of silence before he replied, “Yes, I can.”
I leaned against the door, shaking my head with a grin. The thought of my cousin, usually so lively, now cowering in fear, gave me a small bit of amusement. “Astor, when is the next time you could get a view like this! You can’t miss out on that just because the ship is a little high off the ground. Plus, we might not get much time to see each other after tomorrow.”
The night outside felt alive, the gentle sway of the airship and the whisper of the wind beckoning me. As I waited for Astor to respond, I breathed in deeply, letting the cool air fill my lungs. I hoped he would join me, I didn’t know if we would get much time just to hang out. I didn't know much about the Academy. I never paid too much attention until recently. But from what I had heard was that would, be adventures would be splitting into teams. I wasn't sure how many people would be on each team but from what it sounded like there was a very real chance that me and Aster could be separated.
Astors voice came back through the door.” Look Lewin and I'm not coming out. Just come get me when we're there okay.”
I felt my temper rising a bit. We've been on this Airship for three days. In that time Aster had left his room not even once. I understood his fear but this just seemed a little extreme. My uncle had bought this Airship not even 2 years ago and maintenance was done after every trip. Everything was perfectly safe; his reaction just seemed irrational.
Come on Astor what are you scared of a few clouds they're not going to eat you honestly you're being silly why don't you come up on deck and stop being a baby.
I regretted my words almost as soon as I said them and especially when Asters' hurt tone slid through the door.
“I know it's silly but I can't help it. I don't make fun of your fears so why do you have to make fun of mine.”
The guilt started to eat at me. He was right. There's been so many times when my own problems had started to get the best of me and instead of poking fun at me, Astor had always been there to listen even when I didn't deserve it.
I put my hand on the door, my mouth opening but no words coming out.
“I’m sorry. I just wanna make sure we spent some time in case we got separated. I’ll leave you alone.”
As I walked away my boots made the boards under me creek as if they disapproved. It wasn't long before I was about deck. My thoughts unbidden, turning to my own fears.
As I stood on deck, lost in the vastness of the night sky, a familiar unease settled in my stomach. Thoughts of black scales crept into my mind, like shadows slipping through the corners of my memory. I leaned against the railing, squeezing it until my knuckles turned white.
For a fleeting moment, a vision flashed before my eyes—a castle engulfed in flames, the air thick with smoke and chaos. I could almost hear the distant roar of a creature, a sound that sent shivers down my spine. It was a memory, or perhaps just a dream, but it left a lingering trace of fear in my heart.
I shook my head, trying to dispel the image. It was silly to let my imagination run wild like this, especially when I had just made fun of Aster for doing the same. I focused on the gentle rocking of the ship beneath me, but the unease still lingered, a shadow that wouldn’t quite fade.
Just as I thought I would be pulled back in to that night, a voice broke through the stillness of the night. “Hey! Get away from the edge!”
“Seriously, this again.” I grumbled do these guys ever take a break or do they just stand there waiting for an excuse to yell at me.
I turned to see a crew member standing a few feet away, his brow furrowed with concern. He was a rugged man with salt-and-pepper hair, his weathered face illuminated by the lantern light. “Ye don’t want to lean out too far up here, lad. It’s dangerous, especially at night.”
I stepped back, a bit embarrassed to be caught so close to the edge. “Sorry, I was just… lost in thought.”
“Looks like ye’ve got a lot on yer mind,” he said, casually adjusting the wheel as the airship swayed gently. “What’s botherin’ ye? It’s not every day ye get to fly above the clouds.”
“Just a bit of cabin fever, I guess,” I replied, forcing a smile. “And maybe a touch of nervousness about tomorrow.”
He chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with understanding. “Ah, it’s normal, that is. I used to feel the same way when I first started. Ye get used to it after a while, especially when ye realize how beautiful it is up here.”
I glanced over the edge again, the clouds glowing faintly under the moonlight, and felt a flicker of awe. “It is beautiful,” I admitted.
“Fear is a part of life,” he said, his tone turning serious. “But it’s how we deal with that fear that matters. Ye can’t let it rule ye. Embrace the adventure instead.”
His words struck a chord, reminding me of the fleeting memory of the burning castle. I nodded slowly, trying to shake off the image. “You’re right. I guess I just need to find a way to enjoy this.”
“Exactly! How about ye help me out for a bit?” he said, pointing towards the sky. “I could use an extra pair of eyes to help spot some constellations.”
“Constellations?” I asked, intrigued.
“Aye! They’re not just pretty lights in the sky. They’re guides for navigatin’ the seas and skies. Here, let me show ye.” He gestured for me to join him at the front of the ship.
I stepped closer, my eyes wide with curiosity. “What do I do?”
“First, we’re lookin’ fer the Star of the Traveler, one of the most important constellations up here. It’s shaped like a compass rose and points the way to the East,” he explained, pointing upward. “See that cluster of stars? There’s the tip of the compass, and there, that bright one at the edge? That’s the Star of the Traveler.”
I squinted into the darkness, slowly starting to make out the shapes he described. “I see it!”
“Good! Now, if ye follow the line of the stars that form the compass points, they’ll guide ye on your journeys, especially way up here.”
He continued, “Now look for the Celestial Serpent. It winds across the night, its long body made up of stars that shimmer like scales. They say it protects travelers from storms.”
As he pointed out various constellations, like the Winged Phoenix, which soared high with stars that twinkled like embers, and the Gilded Anchor, which represented hope and stability, I felt a sense of wonder wash over me. Each constellation had its own story, and with each tale, my fears began to recede, replaced by a growing appreciation for the vastness above.
“Every time I look at the sky, I remember I’m just a tiny part of a much larger picture,” he said, his voice rich with warmth and wisdom. “It reminds me to keep movin’ forward, no matter how dark the night might seem.”
I nodded, feelings of wonder filing me. Feeling a bit calmer I looked out at the night with new eyes. “Thank you for teaching me this. It’s… comforting.”
The crew member smiled, his eyes sparkling with pride. “Anytime, lad. Just remember, the stars will always be there to guide ye, just as long as ye know how to look for them.”
We just stood there, staring at the stars the longer I watched the more I felt my fear and fade. My heart relaxed, and my spirit felt more at peace. Seeming to since the change the crewmember spoke again.
“Ye know,” the crew member said, glancing at me with a knowing smile, “ye should head down to yer cabin and try to get some sleep. Ye’ve got a big day ahead of ye tomorrow.”
I sighed, the feelings of wanderer quickly being replaced with tiredness. I let out a slow yawn before responding. “Yeah, you’re probably right. I’m just a bit wired from everything.”
“Trust me, lad. A good night’s sleep will do ye wonders. “Will be there before you know it” he said, yawning slightly. “The stars will still be here when ye wake up.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a shot,” I replied, feeling a mix of excitement and exhaustion. With one last glance at the glittering sky, I turned to head back down into the cabin.
As I settled into my small bed, the gentle hum of the airship and the soft rocking motion made it easy to close my eyes. I felt the tension in my body unwind, and just as I began to drift off, I thought I heard the faint whisper of the Wind Serpent, guiding my dreams.
“Arrived at the Academy!” came a voice from outside, cheerful and boisterous. “Rise and shine, everyone! Time to disembark!”
I rubbed my eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. “Already?” I muttered to myself. It felt like I had only close my eyes for a moment. Sunlight coming in for my cabin window being the only sign that anytime at.
With a quick stretch, I threw off the covers and put a fresh pair set of clothes on. Once I was done, I made my way to the door, my heart pounding in anticipation. The crew member I had spoken to earlier was already at the top of the staircase, grinning widely. “See? Told ye it would come quick!”
I joined him on deck, and form it was too bright for me to see. But slowly as my site began to clear up a bit, my breath caught in my chest. Several hundred feet away from us was a floating island. As we got closer, we began to rise in elevation, circling around the island.
“Welcome to yer new home, lad!” the crew member said, clapping me on the back. “Now, let’s get ye settled in.”
As I stood there, the excitement surged through me , washing away the lingering traces of sleep. This was it. This was the Academy. Appeared over the edge for once, not hearing any complaints from the crew.
I marveled at the impossible site before me. An entire island floating in the sky with the city resting on its back. Down below, I could see hundreds of streets creating a stitch work pattern between buildings. We were too far up to accurately make out what all the buildings were but little dots that I thought were people moved around quickly. Several stone towers rose from several parts of the city. I couldn’t help but stare. This was like nothing I had ever seen before.
“Isn’t it magnificent?” the crew member said beside me, his voice filled with pride. “This is where ye’ll spend the next chapter of yer life. The Academy isn’t just a school; it’s a whole world of its own.”
I nodded, unable to tear my gaze away from the stunning scenery. “It’s more beautiful than I imagined,” I replied, feeling a surge of excitement bubbling within me.
As we circled around the island, he pointed out several buildings explaining what they were.
“Now you see that circle thing over there that’s the arena. In the big building in the middle is the Academy classroom area. In the Long building to the north a bit is the cafeteria.
Eventually, when we made our way to the other side of the island we began to descend. I grip the railing tighter as a slight feeling of weightlessness hit me. The crewmembers were running all over the deck. Calling out orders. Pulling ropes. The ship was a lot with more energy than I had seen the whole trip.
“Hold on tight!” the crew member called out as the airship began its descent toward the docks. “We’re landing!”
The ship decelerated quickly, giving me a small bit of vertigo. With a gentle thud, the ship touched down. Looking around I could see that we had landed in a large plaza area. Ahead of me, hundreds people mingle. As I stepped off the ship I noticed how weird the ground felt. The best way to describe it would have to be the feeling that you get when you’re on elevator that’s raising up. When you get a slightly weak at the knees feeling. Somehow the city must be exerting the constant upward pressure.
“No no no no no. What hell is this. Why is the city floating. No I can’t do this put me back in the cabin I want to go home.” at the sound of the voice I turned my head back towards the ship.
One of the larger crew members, a burly man with a beard that looked like it had been home to a family of birds, was struggling to carry Astor off the ship. Astor, who had been pale and trembling ever since we left Grifden, was clinging to the railing as if it were a lifeline. His wide eyes darted around in a panic, and he let out a series of high-pitched squeaks that sounded remarkably like a distressed kitten.
“C’mon now, lad! It’s just a few steps!” the crew member grunted, hoisting Astor higher. “Ye can’t stay up there forever!”
“I can’t! I can’t! Not on the edge!” Astor wailed, his legs flailing comically as the crew member tried to pull him off the rail. “What if I fall? I’ll plummet to my doom!”
The crew member rolled his eyes, a smirk creeping onto his face. “Doom? There’s no doom here! there’s enchantments to catch you. If you fall your bounce right back up. It’s just a bit of height! Ye’re safe, I promise!”
Astor’s grip loosened for a moment as he let out a dramatic gasp. “Safe? You call this safe? We’re floating in the sky! This whole island could just… vanish!”
“Only if ye keep screamin’ like a banshee!” the crew member retorted, finally managing to yank Astor off the rails and plant him firmly on the ground, albeit with a slight thud.
Astor stumbled back, clutching his chest as if recovering from a near-death experience. “I’ll never get used to this!” he declared, his voice a mix of indignation and panic. “I should have brought a parachute... or a safety net... or just never come in the first place!”
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I couldn’t help but burst into laughter at the sight of Astor, his wild hair standing on end and his eyes wide with disbelief. “You know,” I said, trying to catch my breath, “it might be easier to just look down next time and see how solid the ground is.”
Astor shot me a glare, his face flushed. “Easier for you to say!!”
As I stepped away from the ship, I took a moment to appreciate the plaza. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with laughter and chatter, contrasted sharply with Astor's melodrama. I felt a sense of camaraderie forming already, and I knew that whatever came next, this place would be filled with unforgettable moments—both serious and absurd.
“Welcome to the Academy, where the sky's the limit, and apparently, so is Astor’s imagination,” I quipped, chuckling as we made our way into the heart of the plaza together.
As I took in the vibrant plaza, my eyes began to roam over the diverse crowd that bustled around me. It was a tapestry of races, each one unique and fascinating in its own right. I began to try and mentally cataloged all the different beings mingling in the square.
Tabaxi were easy to spot, their feline grace evident in the way they moved. Some lounged casually on benches, their tails flicking lazily, while others darted about.
Next, I counted the Wolfkin. They were probably one of the most common native races to Concordia. Even here they seem to stand taller than most of the crowd.
But what caught my eye the most were the Swarmlings. My breath caught from a moment when I noticed them. Native to the Dark Hive they were the first race I had ever seen from another country. The weirdest part about them is that they seem to not share many common features other than being. Other than all being some type of insect that was the only thing most of them had in common. A few resembled ants while one or two resembled grasshoppers. I felt my skin crawl when I noticed one of them at the body of a centipede. For some reason, they all be closer around, looking at a bunch of scrolls.
“ Diz is madnezz, madnezz I tell you. How could any society function like diz? How are we zuppozed to know the rulez or procedurez for anything? Impozzible zimply impozzible.”I watched as one that looked a bit like a butterfly cried out and clutched his head. It’s voice had a weird buzzing.
The rest of the students seem to think they were as weird as I did because there was a wide gap between them and the rest of the crowd.
Among the crowd, I spotted a group of what looked like humanoid mushrooms. Their bodies were stout and rounded, resembling various types of fungi, with caps of vibrant colors perched atop their heads—some in deep reds, others in sunny yellows, and a few in soft blues. They moved in a jovial cluster, their laughter ringing out like the gentle chime of wind chimes. Each step they took sent a faint, earthy aroma wafting through the air, reminiscent of a damp forest after rain. Occasionally, one would break away from the group to skip over to a nearby vendor, returning triumphantly with a handful of delicious-looking snacks that looked suspiciously like they might have grown from the ground itself. I couldn’t help but admire their cheerful demeanor; they seemed to share an unbreakable bond with one another, reveling in their quirky nature and the joy of simply being together.
For a moment I was lost looking at all the different races that filled the crowd. Some of them I couldn’t even identify.
“Hey, keep up. I want to get away from the edge!” Astor called, snapping me out of my reverie. He was already making his way toward a cluster of excited students.
As I continued to take in the lively scene, I noticed the mushroom folk gathering their luggage, which had been carelessly left behind during their enthusiastic chatter. Their bags were shaped like small, colorful toadstools, and as they picked them up, I could see that they were filled to the brim with various trinkets and snacks. A few of them exchanged giggles as they struggled to balance their oversized bags, their caps bobbing with every movement. Quickly I remembered my own luggage and grabbed the few bags that we had brought.
Astor, still recovering from his earlier panic, caught sight of the nearby Swarmlings and furrowed his brow. “Hey, do you see those guys?” he asked, a hint of trepidation in his voice. “What’s their deal? They look... well, a bit intimidating, don’t you think?”
I nodded, glancing back at the group , who were now engaged in a serious discussion about their scrolls. “They seem weird. Do you think that they are students like us?”
Astor shifted his weight nervously. “I don’t know, and what about those little mushroom people? They’re definitely not from here either. Do you think they’re friendly?”
I chuckled at his worry. “They seem pretty cheerful. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re the life of the party around here! It’s weird seeing so many different races from different countries.”
Astor nodded, still watching the lively mushroom folk as they laughed and interacted with each other. “I just hope we don’t end up in some kind of misunderstanding with anyone. I mean, can you imagine trying to explain to my father how we got in a fight after being here only five minutes?”
“Let’s just keep an open mind,” I encouraged, feeling a sense of excitement about the potential for new friendships. “Every race has its quirks and customs, right?”
As we stepped deeper into the crowd of mingling students, the atmosphere grew increasingly electric. Laughter and chatter filled the air, accompanied by the enticing aromas of street food and the vibrant colors of various stalls lining the plaza. I felt a thrill coursing through me as we navigated through the crowd following behind Astor, who seem to have forgotten how high up we were.
Suddenly, a familiar voice cut through the din like a beacon. “Lewin! Astor! Over here!”
I turned to see a tall figure waving enthusiastically. Dorian was a fellow noble whose family had a long-standing reputation. His charisma and confidence were hard to miss, making him stand out even among the nobility. His mother held a prestigious position far above my uncle’s, and while I had always seen him as trustworthy, I also felt a hint of annoyance.
Astor nudged me with his elbow. “Looks like we’ve got Dorian in our midst,” he said, his voice tinged with a mix of exasperation.
As we made our way toward him, Dorian flashed his trademark smile. “I was hoping I’d run into you two!” he exclaimed, his enthusiasm booming. “How are you finding it so far?”
“It’s incredible,” I replied, forcing a smile. “There’s a lot to see and experience. I feel like I’ve just scratched the surface.”
Dorian nodded, his eyes sparkling. “You have no idea! I arrived last night. You’ll love it here. Just wait until you meet some of the other nobles.”
“Who all is here?” I asked cures to see if any friends had joined us.”
Dorian listed off a few names. I knew most of them but I didn't like a lot of them. While most nobles mainly focused on improving their land and trying to increase the commonwealth of their people, a few had weird ideas of what they called fun.
Astor chimed in, trying to steer the conversation, “ Have you seen the Swarmlings? They’re quite the sight, and those mushroom people over there seem friendly enough.”
Dorian raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing in his expression. “Ha, the Swarmlings ! There are a bunch of bureaucrats a lot of them. The few I’ve met seem all right, but they apparently have this hive mind thing that they used to keep track of all their rules. Apparently so far away from the rest of their colony it’s not really working and they’re freaking out a little bit. As for the Mushys, or the mushroom people as you call them. They’re delightful! I’ve shared meals with them. They have a knack for crafting delicious dishes from just about anything.”
“Sounds like they those bugs got it ruff” I said, feeling a mix of discomfort at Dorian's patronizing tone. “
Dorian chuckled, his expression unfazed. “But honestly, wouldn’t having one of those guys in your team be interesting? As long as they’re not commoners, of course. They’re not as capable, and it would be an inconvenience, having to protect them all the time.”
Astor frowned, clearly annoyed. “That’s an outdated way of thinking, Dorian. Just because they’re not nobles doesn’t mean they lack value. Everyone has something to contribute, and we should be open to learning from them.”
Dorian shrugged, unfazed. “This again. I’m not saying that they don’t have value. You know as well as I do that a noble title grants a noble's offspring greater physical traits at birth. It's really nothing against them”
I let out a sigh. He had always been like this. He wasn't wrong but I still didn’t like his mind set. There was no point in arguing we had tried to convince him for years.
As we continued through the bustling crowd, a commotion caught my attention. A human girl stood with her fists clenched, her fiery red hair spilling out of a messy braid and framing her determined face. Her green eyes blazed with intensity, reflecting her frustration as she pointed an accusing finger at a male tabxi just a few paces away.
“I can’t believe my father sponsored a thief and instead of being grateful you go around acting like this!” she yelled, her voice slicing through the chatter like a knife. “What kind of message does that send?”
The tabaxi leaned against a nearby stone wall, his black fur blending into the shadows. Bright amber eyes sparkled with mischief, and a smirk played on his lips as he reveled in the chaos he stirred. “Oh, come now! I prefer to think of myself as a resourceful entrepreneur. And that whole walking with your backstreet thing really puts a crick in my neck!”
The girl narrowed her eyes, the challenge in her stance clear. “You think that’s funny? Slouching around like a common criminal? What’s wrong with you?” Her voice trembled slightly as she tried to control her anger.
He leaned back, his tail flicking with playful mischief. “ I assure you most people don’t even notice. In fact you’re the only one making a scene around here.
The girl's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she scanned the plaza, finally noticing the many watching eyes. “Is everything a joke to you? I have no idea what my father and Lord Featherfall saw in you. The least you could do is try not to make a fool of yourself and have proper posture for once.”
The Tabaxi chuckled, clearly enjoying the banter. “Come on, you need to learn to lighten up; not everything has to be so serious all the time.”
“You’re impossible! Do you really think you can charm your way through life? Unlike the rest of us, I actually have a reputation worth something!”
“I prefer to think of it as a unique strategy,” he replied, brushing off her remarks with a smirk. “But hey, am I really that bad? I know we’ve had our differences, but can’t we put those behind us? That way, you won’t have to breathe down my neck all the time.”
Astor and I exchanged glances, both of us feeling a bit lost at what we were seeing play out in front of us.
“Maybe if you focused less on your petty thievery and more on being a decent person, I wouldn’t have to worry about my father’s reputation!” she snapped, her voice firm.
As the heated exchange continued, Dorian stepped back slightly, his usual grin replaced with concern. Leaning closer to Astor and me, he whispered, “Never mind! I’ll take commoners over being on a team with her any day.”
Astor raised an eyebrow, struggling to suppress a chuckle. “What, can’t you handle a little drama?”
I shrugged, glancing over at the Tabaxi. “Honestly, he doesn’t seem much better from what I can see.”
Dorian shook his head, a smirk dancing on his lips. “ The Tabaxi I can handle, but she could be trouble. You two have no idea who she is, do you? That’s Relia Dawn. Her father is the captain of the Hawthorne Knights.”
Astor paused, looking thoughtful. “Wait, aren’t they stationed in Stonehill? I heard that’s a frontier city.”
“It is, and her father is one of the main reasons it’s been able to grow so quickly. In fact, I would say she gets most of her charming personality from him. I swear she acts more like a drill instructor than a lady,” Dorian said, flinching slightly.
“I can see what you mean,” I replied, chuckling a bit. “I definitely wouldn’t want to be stuck on a team with one of the crazy ones either.” I glanced back at the Tabaxi, shaking my head with a grin. “I wonder what the poor guy did to set her off.”
“ I don’t know but it’s probably best if we just leave them to it,” Dorian suggested, a mischievous glint in his eye. “They can work out their own little soap opera. I’m sure we’ll hear all about it later.”.”
With that, the three of us moved on, leaving the shouting match behind. The vibrant atmosphere of the crowd enveloped us, and the drama faded into the background, replaced by the sounds of laughter and chatter.
As we walked away, I couldn’t help but glance back at the girl and the Tabaxi, their argument still escalating.
As Dorian, Astor, and I continued exploring the plaza the noise of the crowd began to fade as a tall figure emerged from the shadows of one of the balcony above. I squinted up, trying to make out who it was, but I couldn’t quite place the face. The figure had silver hair that glinted in the sunlight, and their deep-set blue eyes scanned the crowd with a commanding authority that made everyone stop in their tracks.
“Attention, students!” the figure called out, their voice booming across the courtyard. The chatter gradually quieted, and all eyes turned upward. “I expect all of you to make your way to the auditorium immediately. The open ceremony will commence shortly.”
I exchanged glances with Dorian and Astor. Looking around could the crowd begin to file into a set of double doors under the balcony where the speaker was.
“Let’s go,” Dorian urged, nudging us forward. “I can't wait to see what they have in store. My older brother told me a little bit about his opening ceremony and I can't wait to see it .”
Astor shook his head, a smile spreading across his face. “You know, after the drama we just witnessed, I’m looking forward to whatever they have planned. It can’t be any worse than that!”
We stepped inside the auditorium, and the sight before us was nothing short of underwhelming compared to everything we had seen so far. Rows of seats filled the space, and a grand stage loomed at the front, adorned with intricate banners and glowing orbs that floated gently above. Dorian led the way, navigating us through the aisles as we searched for a place to sit. We finally settled into a row near the front, the anticipation in the air palpable as more students filed in, their chatter fading to a hush.
Once everyone was seated, the auditorium dimmed slightly, and a soft glow from magical lights began to illuminate the stage. A hush fell over the crowd, and then, without warning, a series of dazzling lights shot across the stage, swirling around each other before bursting in mid-air and sending a shower of sparks cascading down.
Several individuals dressed in robes stepped onto the stage, and with a synchronized motion, jets of water erupted from their hands. The water danced around the stage, colliding together like crashing waves before spraying out over the audience. Just then, another figure stepped forward and, with a few words, turned the spray of water into a magnificent pillar of ice.
As the scene unfolded, more performers joined in, each adding their own magical talents to the display. Green vines began to grow from the floor, spiraling around the ice sculpture, flowers blooming as they went. At the same time sparks of electricity danced through the air, enhancing the spectacle with vibrant energy.
The crowd reacted with laughter, and cheers as the show continued. I leaned closer to Dorian and Astor, my eyes wide. “This is incredible! I’ve never seen magic performed like this before!”
“Right? It’s like they’re pulling the very essence of enchantment from the air,” Dorian replied, captivated.
As the magical performance reached its crescendo, an elderly lady stepped into the spotlight. With a sweep of her hand, all the magic that had been displayed disappeared in the instant. Her silver hair cascaded down her shoulders, and she moved with a graceful authority that commanded respect. Clad in elegant robes adorned with intricate patterns, she approached the center of the podium. The crowd quieted further, the atmosphere shifting as she prepared to speak.
“Welcome, students,” she began, her voice warm yet firm. “I am Headmistress Elyria, and I’m delighted to see so many eager faces here today.” The crowd responded with muted applause, and I could feel a sense of reverence for her presence.
Headmistress Elyria took a deep breath, allowing the applause to settle before she continued. “ Before we continue the opening ceremony I would like to be the first to say how happy I am to have you here. This Academy was formed over 200 years ago by myself and several of my colleagues who no longer with us. It was our dream to create an institution that would not only serve is a training ground for adventures. But would also embodied the ideals of unity that are country was founded on. It is in that spirit that I am pleased to announce that this year and for the next four years, our school will be playing host to the international exchange program. Many races from around the known world will be attending our school.
A ripple of intrigue coursed through the audience as she spoke. I leaned forward, eager to absorb every word.
“It is my dearest wish that you will be able to learn from each other, not only about each other’s culture, but also how we can all work together to build a better world.”
The headmistress paused, letting the weight of her words sink in. Her old eyes seem to tell a story of the wrong and she scanned the crowd.
“So please give me a hand and welcoming our exchange students. Be they minotaur from the kingdom of horns or dwarves and humans from the Empire or even mushy and swarmlings from the dark hive. Please give them around applause.”
I joined in as the crowd erupted in applause. All around me the humans, Wolfkin, and Tabxis of Concordia applauded.
Headmistress Lyria continued, “This program is not only about cultural exchange; it is about collaboration and understanding. You as adventurers will have a license to pass between countries easier than even merchants. Being able to get along with and understand your neighbors is not only an important skill in life but could possibly help make your careers.”
Her words were followed by a triumphant fanfare of trumpets, their bright notes echoing through the auditorium.
"Now that the announcements are out of the way, let us proceed with the opening ceremony as usual. Welcome to Masterwork Academy, where the Hall of Destiny awaits. On your journey toward adventure, many obstacles lie ahead, and this is where we will equip you to face any challenges that may arise. Many of you have come here with the ambition of becoming fully licensed adventurers, while others pursue different trades. For some, wielding a hammer in the forges is considered more noble than bearing a sword, while others may find their calling as bards or healers. You’ve already made your choice when you applied, so once the ceremony is complete, please follow the designated pathway to receive your class schedule and housing assignment."
In a flash of sparks, four sets of doors appeared, glowing brightly on two either side of the stage. As the Headmistress continued to explain which door to go through, I turned to Astor. “I didn’t know they taught more than just adventuring here.”
“Shh! I’m trying to listen. This is why you don’t know anything; you can’t pay attention for more than five seconds,” he replied, his eyes focused on the stage.
“For most of you, the next four years will be spent studying, learning, and growing. After that time, many of you will aspire to join a guild. But remember, guilds don’t just recruit anyone; they seek the best. It’s crucial to stand out. Keep in mind the annual Harvest Festival, when students will have opportunities to showcase their skills. Don’t hesitate to step into the spotlight!”
As Headmistress Elyria concluded her speech, she raised her hands once more, commanding the room's attention. “Now, students, please follow the path to your left and remain quiet as we transition to the next phase of our orientation. We have much to accomplish today, and your cooperation is essential.”
With a wave of excitement and curiosity, the students began to rise from their seats, a buzz of chatter filling the auditorium before quickly fading as the headmistress’s piercing gaze swept across the crowd. Quickly, the room fell silent once more, punctuated only by the sound of shuffling feet as we filed toward the left door.
I found myself walking amid a bustling crowd of students, a sense of anticipation swirling in the air. I was looking around for Astor and Dorian, but at some point, we became separated in the throng. Before I could fully process my surroundings, I passed through the imposing double doors and stepped into a long, grand hall filled with students forming orderly lines. The space was alive with the sound of shuffling feet. At the front of the hall were several reception desks, each manned by a receptionist, who sat beside a large pile of what appeared to be smooth, oval-shaped stones, glinting under the soft light.
As I stood there, I took a moment to look around the room, marveling at the high, vaulted ceiling adorned with intricate carvings and the stunning stained glass windows. They depicted treasures, ancient weapons, and monstrous creatures, casting colorful patterns on the polished floor. The artistry was breathtaking, each window telling a story of its own.
One line, predominantly composed of Swarmlings seemed to be progressing at a brisk pace. For wants to bug people seem to be calm almost as they enjoyed having some rules to follow. In stark contrast, another line made up mostly of Mushy appeared to be stagnant, their members lazily engaging in quiet conversation, seemingly oblivious to the commotion around them.
The wait felt interminable as I stood there, my heart racing, too nervous and apprehensive to strike up a conversation with anyone in front of or behind me. My mind raced with questions about what awaited me. Eventually, I made it to the front of the line.
“Name?” the receptionist inquired, her voice brisk yet kind. She had a long blonde braid cascading over her shoulder, and her spectacles perched delicately on her nose. She wore a tailored vest over a crisp button-up shirt.
“Lewin,” I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. She nodded and picked up a form, handing it to me along with a sleek pen that felt cool to the touch.
She pointed to several spots on the page, her tone efficient. “Please sign here, here, and here.”
Once I had signed, she reached into the pile of stones and handed me one, its surface smooth and cool against my palm, along with a small needle that glinted ominously in the light.
“Please prick your finger and place one drop of blood on the stone,” she instructed. I hesitated, a mix of confusion and apprehension flooding over me. The prospect felt strange, but I ultimately complied. I felt a sharp sting as the needle pierced my skin, and as I pressed my thumb against the stone, it felt both cool and oddly comforting. Moments later, a ripple traversed its surface as the stone transformed into a dark, polished wood, its texture warm and inviting. Before I could process the words that began to etch themselves onto its surface, a voice resonated in my mind.
“Class rank 1, Level One Fighter. Class Signature Skill Obtained: Enhanced Learning—Weapon Proficiency.”
I looked around, startled by the sudden announcement, while the receptionist regarded me with a bored expression, as if this was an everyday occurrence.
“You’ll get used to it here. That is an oath stone. Think of it as your personal ID. For now, just imagine it disappearing.
Still slightly confused by how fast everything was moving at did as she asked moments later the stone vanished the weight disappearing from my hand.
“ You’ll learn more about how to use it in your first class for now take these,” she said, pushing a sheet of paper toward me that read “Class Schedule” at the top, accompanied by a heavy bronze key that dangled from the edge. “This is your class schedule and the key to your dorm. You will meet the rest of your team at your dorm. Please proceed to the third teleportation circle on the left and wait.”
Still in a daze from how rapidly everything was unfolding, I picked up the paper and the key and made my way to the designated circle, my mind racing. I heard the job before. After obtaining enough proficiency with me field of work, you would attain a level one job. According to my uncle more people would reach around level 30 in their lifetime. But some cases, more exceptional people, would get to 40 or 50. But what was the class and why did I obtain one when I put my blood on that what was it called again, a stone?
As I stood there, scanning the crowd, I spotted Astor making his way toward me, skillfully weaving through the throng of students. He seemed to be joining the same teleportation circle as I was. We exchanged a nod, both of us looking equally bewildered. For a moment, we stood together, watching our circle fill with students, each one displaying a mix of excitement and apprehension. Suddenly, a brilliant flash of light enveloped us, forcing me to shut my eyes tightly against the dazzling brightness.
When I finally opened them, it felt as if we had been transported to a completely different world. Weird built in my stomach and I felt like throwing up. I thought with myself to keep it down for a few seconds until it went away. Behind me I heard a few other students weren’t so lucky.
Cobblestone roads stretched out before us, their uneven surfaces glistening with a hint of moisture, reflecting the soft glow of the evening light. Charming sidewalks lined the streets, adorned with ornate street lamps that flickered gently, casting a warm ambiance. On either side of the road stood two-story houses, each uniquely designed with vibrant colors and whimsical architecture that sparked my imagination. The road stretched into the distance, and directly ahead of our group stood a large gathering of older students, their confident demeanor suggesting that they were seasoned adventurers, well-acquainted with the life we were just beginning.
“Welcome, everyone! Congratulations on taking your first step toward becoming adventurers!” boomed a voice, echoing across the cobblestones. The energy in the air crackled with possibility, and a surge of excitement coursed through me as I realized this was just the beginning of my journey.
As the speaker stepped forward, a pair of griffins soared above us, carrying a large banner that unfurled mid-air, emblazoned with the word "Welcome" in elegant script.
“My name is Lance,” he continued, his voice filled with enthusiasm. “I can’t tell you how excited I am to welcome you all to your first year at the Masterwork Academy! To get started, each of you should take a look at the back of your dorm key; it will reveal your house number. After that, I want you all to head to your designated house and wait for the rest of your party to arrive. Feel free to introduce yourselves and maybe even converse with some of your neighbors. Later tonight, one of our guides will come to gather you, along with a small group, to give you a tour of the city and then take you out for dinner. There should be a meal waiting for you in your dorms. So don’t worry if you haven’t eaten yet.”
As I turned over my key, I noticed the number 147 etched into its surface. Looking over, Astor was doing the same when I saw the number on his key I grind.
“Astor, look! We got the same number!” I exclaimed, my excitement bubbling over.
Astor raised his key with a grin, showing off the matching number. “We’re in this together, then!”
Relief washed over me. The prospect of exploring the Academy, meeting new people, and embarking on our journey felt much less daunting with Astor by my side.
“Let’s head to our dorm and see what awaits us,” I suggested, feeling a renewed sense of camaraderie. As we made our way through the dispersing crowd, anticipation thrummed in the air, and I couldn’t help but wonder what experiences lay ahead for both of us at the Masterwork Academy.
As we approached our dorm, I felt a thread of nervous energy. The buildings on either side of the road were lined with wooden doors, and the air carried the faint scent of fresh paint and varnish.
“This is it,” I said, glancing at Astor. He nodded, his eyes wide with anticipation.
Slowly, I put the key into the lock and turn the knob. As I open the door, I got a terrible feeling and my stomach when I saw what was inside.
“Are you kidding me! How did I end up on the same team as you?” A furious female voice pierced the air.
It was the same girl from earlier, her fiery red hair a wild halo around her head. She was glaring at the Tabaxi who lounged casually on the long couch that sat in the center of the room across from the fireplace
I slowly put my head in my hands.
“Great, we got stuck with the crazy ones.”