"Good morning, everyone." Roderick began, his voice resonating with a gentle authority that drew the attention of every individual present. As his gaze swept over the sea of students in front of him, it seemed as if his gaze met everyone's.
"I appreciate your patience this morning. We have some important announcements to share." He cleared his throat subtly, then launched into his speech.
"We are introducing a new system of practical learning, starting tomorrow. This is an opportunity for all of you to not just pay off your tuition, but also potentially learn a profession."
The students exchanged surprised glances, whispers rippling through the crowd, but Roderick pressed on, a firm hand silencing the murmurs. He stood elevated on a small balcony, his authoritative figure overlooking the students.
"First, students studying Botanics will have a chance to accompany our beloved teacher, Miss Lila, on foraging trips in the surrounding woods. Alternatively, you may also choose to assist local farmers with their work, applying your knowledge to increase their yields."
"Those of you who have shown exceptional prowess in combat training will have the opportunity to serve alongside the Ventispils village guards; This, will not only provide you with real-world experience but also allow you to contribute to the safety of our community."
Roderick paused, allowing the information to sink in. He watched as the students below exchanged excited glances, whispers, and conjectures. A certain degree of nervousness was palpable, but it was tempered by an unmistakable thrill.
This was not just a minor change in their daily routine but a transformative opportunity for them to step into the real world, apply their knowledge and gain practical experience.
"And that's not all," Roderick resumed, raising his hand to command silence. "Those studying enchantments under Elara instead, will be given the chance to create enchanted tools and objects, which we will then proceed to sell."
"I know these changes are sudden and may be overwhelming for some," Roderick acknowledged, his tone softening. He paused to meet the gazes of several students, his eyes reflecting his understanding. "But these are not obligatory. They are opportunities, avenues for you to gain real-life experiences and contribute to the academy and our local community."
"Ultimately," Roderick continued, his voice echoing through the vast hall, "Our goal is not to throw you into the deep end but to give you the tools and opportunities to learn how to swim. To prepare you for the world that awaits beyond these academy walls."
His tone seemed to turn slightly darked. "I know that some of you might already know what I'm gonna be talking about next," His gaze lingered on the group of small orphans. "But for those of you that don't please remember this carefully."
"The world outside is filled with dangers, there are beasts as cunning as men and men as brutal as beasts, stunning wonders and hopeless horrors. Our duty as teachers is to prepare you to live in our world, to provide you with the tools to not only survive, but to succeed and thrive."
His tone alternated between stern and gentle and as he looked at the crowd, he saw many students either nodding with resolute eyes, or gulp their nervoussness down.
He locked eyes with individual students, making them feel seen and heard. "For if we wish to live in a world of peace, we cannot simply turn a blind eye to the threats that surround us. We must instead be prepared to stand up against them, to ensure the safety and tranquility of our world."
The courtyard was silent, every student hanging onto his every word. "Our ultimate goal is not to instill fear," he said, his voice softening, "but to inspire courage and resilience. Let knowledge and experience be your armors and weapons in this journey, and we, your guides in forging them."
"Finally," he said, "I want to share an old proverb with all of you. It says, 'If you want peace, prepare for war.' It may seem contradictory, but after much thought, I believe it holds a significant meaning. It tells us that we must be strong. Only by being strong can we deter others from disturbing our peace."
With an air of conclusion, Roderick took a deep breath, his eyes once more sweeping over the sea of students.
"I understand that all of this is new, and it might be a bit scary," he admitted, his voice still resonating in the silent courtyard. "But remember, every change is an opportunity for growth. Do not shy away from challenges, embrace them. They are the stepping stones on your path to strength and resilience."
He let his words linger for a moment, then finished with a firm nod. "Thank you for your attention. I have faith that you will all make the right choices and rise to the occasion."
As Roderick stepped back from the balcony's edge, the crowd burst into applause, a mixture of nervousness, excitement, and anticipation hanging in the air.
Once the applause subsided, Elara stepped forward, her vibrant eyes twinkling with warmth and a bit of mischief. "Thank you, Roderick," she said, her voice carrying well into the open courtyard. "Now, to the practical side of things."
"We have set up a new system where you can sign up for these practical lessons. There's a board by the academy's main entrance. Each activity will be listed there, along with the teacher's name and the scheduled time. You can add your name under the activity you're interested in."
She chuckled lightly, a smile playing on her lips. "Remember, you are not signing your life away. If you find that an activity is not to your liking, you are free to try something else. We want you to explore, experiment, and find what truly inspires you."
Elara's words were encouraging and sparked curiosity among the students. As she finished her short explanation, the crowd began to disperse, their conversations filled with speculation and excitement about the new system.
With their curiosity piqued and the promise of a new experience awaiting them, the students dispersed, ready to face this new chapter of their academy life.