The High-Speed Magic Train (HSM Train) glided silently toward Gammalon, the imperial capital, traversing verdant lands dotted with magnificent landscapes. As the train approached the city, excitement surged within Erevan. The prospect of starting his training at the academy stirred within him a mix of anticipation and wonder.
Upon arriving in Gammalon, the city was a kaleidoscope of activities and magic. The bustling streets teemed with busy merchants, mages in sparkling attire, and citizens going about their daily routines. The atmosphere, vibrant with energy, captivated Erevan's senses, marveling at the diversity and omnipresent magic.
By pure chance, Erevan spotted Hekhim alone in a magical skill books store. Eager to enhance his magical arsenal, he expressed interest in the first-circle skill "Fireball," essential for his learning.
"Hey Hekhim, what are you doing here?" he exclaimed joyfully.
Hekhim turned, glad to see him, then grinned broadly. "Erevan! I'm looking to purchase a first-circle skill book to ease my learning at the academy!"
The salesman, rather cunning, realized these two were newcomers and attempted to convince Hekhim to buy the book at an exorbitant price of 43 Stellarias. Unaware that Erevan, having bought several of these books during his five years at the academy, knew the actual value of such books, he couldn't stand this blatant swindle. He engaged in a discussion with the salesman, arguing about the price and quality of the book.
"14 Stellarias is a fair price for this first-circle skill book, not a penny more," insisted Erevan, firmly.
Shaking his head, an ironic smile forming on his lips, Erevan continued, "I have no doubt about the book's quality. However, I am certain magic enthusiasts would appreciate knowing about unscrupulous business practices that might occur here."
"Is this a threat from you, dear customer?" asked the salesman, realizing his mistake, he had picked the wrong person.
"Oh, but rest assured, it's not for me, but for all those who might face these exaggerated fees," replied Erevan calmly but firmly. "Reputations, in this domain, are fragile, aren't they?"
Seeing Erevan's determination and the possibility of his business being deserted, the salesman hesitated before eventually relenting. After a slight negotiation, he agreed to the price of 14 Stellarias for the much-desired skill book.
Grateful for his friend's assistance, Hekhim thanked him warmly. "Erevan, thanks for your help. You handled that in such a cool way," said Hekhim, admirably.
Erevan smiled modestly. "No problem, Hekhim. We're here for each other, you know?"
"Seriously, you have a really cool way of handling things," remarked Hekhim.
"It's just a matter of understanding how things work, you see? No need to openly threaten anyone. Reputation is super important, especially for merchants," explained Erevan.
Erevan smiled, pleased to have been able to help his friend. "And besides, Hekhim, isn't that what friends are supposed to do?"
They continued through the lively streets of Gammalon, discussing the magical skills they wanted to learn at the academy. Hekhim knew he could count on Erevan for more than just negotiation advice.
After about twenty minutes, they caught sight of the prestigious place where they would spend their next five years.
Indeed, the academy stood before them, majestic and imposing. Its enchanting buildings seemed to embrace both modernity and ancient history. Graceful towers rose toward the sky, imposing facades reflecting the grandeur of the learning that took place within. Well-maintained gardens surrounded the establishment, adding to its majestic charm.
Amidst the bustling registration day at the Gammalon academy, a multitude of students crowded in front of the institution's monumental gates. The crowd, a diverse mix of young magic enthusiasts, buzzed with excitement and anxiety at the thought of starting this new chapter.
The doors, colossal and majestic, seemed to be fashioned from a rare and powerful alliance: gold, a symbol of wealth and grandeur, mingled with adamantium, the magical metal renowned for its special conductivity with magic. Ornate designs of intricate motifs etched in the metal glowed faintly with an energetic aura.
Erevan and Hekhim, among the throng of students, gazed at these impressive doors, captivated by their grandeur and mystery. They already felt the impact of this place on their destinies, this academy symbolizing hope to reach new magical heights.
As they approached these colossal doors, they were dazzled by the significance of this moment. Their hearts beat faster as they crossed the threshold, entering this place of knowledge and boundless possibilities.
The crowd slowly dispersed into the entrance hall, a vast room where magic seemed to dance in the air. Students whispered, exchanged excited glances, and soaked in the energetic atmosphere within the academy. For Erevan and Hekhim, this moment marked the beginning of an adventure where discovery, learning, and challenges awaited behind these immense doors.