Today marks the grand entrance to the Royal Academy, and my carefully packed package is my ticket to this adventure. I bid my mother a dramatic farewell, conveyed regards to my father, and now find myself crammed into a carriage with my bro. The journey to the capital looms, promising a day of shared awkward silence. Attempting to shatter the quiet, I inquire, "So bro, how's the thrilling world of employment treating you?" Surprisingly, he responds with genuine concern, "All good. By the way, it's been ages since you graced the capital. Feeling nervous?"
Incredulously, I respond, "No problem at all." The conversation halts, but I decide to dive deeper into the abyss of familial inquiry. "When are you planning to marry the Duke Corcus's daughter?" He retorts, "That time when you decide to get engaged. Could be an eternity, for all I care." Undeterred, I confess, "You know, I really wanna get a girlfriend." Cue the flashback to my brother drowning in love letters, while my romantic history resembles a barren desert.
Attempting to lighten the mood, I declare, "I may try my luck in the girlfriend department at the academy." We segue into various topics, and after what feels like an eternity, we arrive at Duke Corcus's abode. The guard grants us passage, leading us to the duke's office. Greetings in the noblest manner possible commence.
Duke Corcus, a formidable noble with a history bathed in victories, warmly greets my brother. Turning to me, he exclaims, "Ralph, you've become so big. Cardic will be delighted to see you. It'll be a great reunion of friends." I respond with a respectful "yes, my lord" and seek permission to meet Cardic.
Navigating towards the garden, I'm met with Cardic's exuberant greeting, "Bruh, my partner, you have come!" In the presence of Cardic's fiancée, Isabella Rosemont, and other noble friends, it turns into an unexpected group date. Lady Isabella, inquisitive and polite, says, "I've heard a lot from Cedric about you. It's been nice to meet you." I reply, "The pleasure is mine." Then Cedric, the eternal prankster, comments, "Single, how are you feeling in a sea of mingling?" Lady Isabella adds, "I've heard you're not engaged yet. Why is there no girl you like?"
With a sly grin, I retort, "It's hard to find the right person." Isabella kindly suggests, "How about I introduce you to some noble ladies? You have a good face." I respond with gratitude, and Cedric, always ready with a jab, predicts, "I bet you'll be single forever, Ralph." In defiance, I declare, "In your dreams. I'm 100 percent confident I'll make a girlfriend."
The night progresses with lively banter, and I find myself invited to Duke Corcus's house for dinner. Later, I retire to the guest house, but in the middle of the night, a mischievous thought crosses my mind – a secret escapade to experience the mystical charm of the capital after dark. As I sneak out, the adventure unfolds under the cloak of night.
As I entered the capital under the ethereal embrace of night, the city transformed into a mesmerizing dreamscape. The towering spires, adorned with enchanted crystals that shimmered in the moonlight, created a celestial dance above. The grand palaces, now bathed in the gentle glow of enchanted lanterns, seemed to whisper tales of forgotten magic from centuries past.
Market bazaars took on an otherworldly charm. Stall after stall sparkled with the luminescence of magical wares. It was as if the very air carried the enchanting aroma of potions and elixirs, their ethereal glow illuminating the faces of the nocturnal traders.
Cultural districts, usually bustling with intellectual pursuits, now radiated a soft, mystical aura. Libraries and theaters embraced the quietude of the night, and the moonlit sculptures seemed to come to life with every whispered incantation carried on the breeze.
Gardens and parks, silent witnesses to the mysteries of the night, became enchanted realms. The soft glow of magical flora bathed the surroundings in a subtle radiance, and the occasional fluttering of enchanted creatures added a touch of whimsy to the serene landscape.
As I traversed intricate bridges and canals, the city's waterways reflected the magical tapestry above. Water nymphs gracefully danced upon the surface, leaving behind a trail of silvery ripples that mirrored the starlit sky.
Clockwork mechanisms, usually practical and industrious during the day, took on an enchanting allure at night. Gears turned with a rhythmic precision, accompanied by a faint, magical hum that seemed to synchronize with the pulsating heartbeat of the city.
Districts of diversity, each with its magical signature, now showcased their nocturnal splendor. Monuments and statues, standing tall in the moonlight, cast elongated shadows that seemed to waltz with the gentle night breeze.
Technological marvels, fueled by magical energies, bathed the city in a soft, iridescent glow. Floating street lamps created pockets of warmth, and enchanted communication devices emitted a soft, otherworldly glow as whispers of conversations traversed the mystical air.
Culinary delights, touched by the magic of the night, became a feast for the senses. Street vendors offered enchanted treats that sparkled with colors unseen in daylight, and high-end magical restaurants embraced the nocturnal theme, creating an ambiance that transcended the ordinary.
As I reached the highest vantage point, the capital revealed its most breathtaking secret. The entire cityscape sparkled like a constellation of magical gems, an intricate pattern of lights that told tales of an ancient, mystical legacy. The capital at night was not just a city; it was a celestial masterpiece, a testament to the enchantment that wove through every nook and cranny.It was totally different from my country side.