I stood at the entrance of my home, my bag slung over my shoulder and my sword strapped securely at my side. My family had gathered to see me off—my father with his usual composed demeanor, my mother fussing over last-minute advice, and Sophie clinging to my arm as if letting go would mean I'd vanish.
"Don't forget to eat properly," my mother said, her hands adjusting my already well-packed bag.
"I won't," I replied, keeping my tone calm.
My father nodded. "Focus on your training and studies. You'll represent this family now, Noah."
I gave him a slight nod in return. Sophie, as always, was the most expressive. "You have to write to us, okay? And don't forget to bring back cool stories!"
"Sure," I said, ruffling her hair. She beamed up at me, her worries momentarily forgotten.
I didn't linger on the scene. Saying goodbye wasn't something I wanted to drag out. With a final nod to my parents and a glance back at our modest home, I climbed onto the cart waiting outside. The driver, an older man with a weathered face, cracked the reins, and we were off.
The streets of Reshan were alive as usual. Merchants called out to potential customers, their voices competing with the clatter of hooves and wheels on cobblestones. People moved with purpose, whether they were children running errands or workers returning from a long day.
I leaned back in the cart, observing it all. The capital had always been a busy place, but today, it felt different. I wasn't part of this world anymore—not in the same way. My destination lay beyond these streets, in a place designed to shape the future of humanity.
The cart took us past the bustling markets and into quieter outskirts. The towering spires of Archon Academy soon came into view, their sharp silhouettes cutting against the blue sky. Even from this distance, the academy exuded a sense of grandeur and authority.
The main gates of the academy were as imposing as I'd imagined. Massive iron structures adorned with intricate carvings of magical symbols, swords, and artifacts. The guards stationed there were dressed in pristine uniforms, their expressions stern as they checked the credentials of incoming students.
I presented my admission papers without a word. The guard gave me a brief once-over, then stepped aside to let me through.
The academy grounds sprawled out in all directions, divided into distinct sections.
Theoretical Wing: This was where knowledge took precedence. Large stone buildings with towering windows loomed in the distance, their walls likely housing countless books and scrolls on mana, magic, history, and strategy.
Combat Grounds: To the west, wide open areas were filled with training equipment, arenas, and sparring spaces. Students already practiced there, their movements sharp and precise as they honed their skills with weapons or magic.
Crafting District: Chimneys from workshops released thin trails of smoke, and I could hear the faint clinking of tools. This was where alchemy, artifact creation, and blacksmithing flourished—a place I knew I'd visit often.
Residential Zone: Dormitories stood in neat rows, each building marked with a number. They were simple compared to the rest of the academy but appeared sturdy and functional.
Marketplace and Dining Halls: A section bustling with shops and eateries. It was clear that students wouldn't lack options for food or supplies here.
I scanned the surroundings, noting the layout and the students milling about. Some were in groups, chatting excitedly, while others seemed more reserved. I fit somewhere in between—an observer, taking it all in.
After a short walk, I arrived at Dormitory C. The building was modest but well-maintained. Inside, the hallways were simple, lined with doors leading to individual rooms.
My assigned room was small but functional—a bed, a desk, a wardrobe, and a small shelf. I unpacked my belongings quickly, keeping my movements efficient. Clothes went into the wardrobe, personal items onto the shelf, and my sword rested by the desk.
The room was quiet. It wasn't uncomfortable, but it lacked the familiar sounds of home. That was fine, though. I wasn't here for comfort.
Once I was settled, I decided to explore a bit. The academy was too vast to take in all at once, but I wanted to get a sense of the place.
Walking through the combat grounds, I observed students practicing. Most were still adjusting to the intensity of the environment, their forms sloppy or hesitant. A few stood out, displaying precision or confidence that hinted at prior training.
In the crafting district, the air smelled of hot metal and alchemical fumes. Students and instructors worked with focus, creating items that shimmered faintly with mana. I recognized some of the techniques my father had taught me, though the level here was far more advanced.
The sun was beginning to set when I returned to my dormitory. The day had been long, and tomorrow would likely be even longer.
As I lay on the bed, staring at the plain ceiling, I considered the road ahead. The Archon Academy was a place where legends were made—a proving ground for the strong and ambitious. I didn't have lofty dreams of fame or power, but I had my own goals.