As I entered through the academy's gate, my heart began to beat at alarming speeds. I couldn't believe it; the place I had only recognized from a book was now right before my eyes, and in all its splendor, it was simply beautiful.
Standing still, marveling at the magnitude of its majesty, a voice snapped me out of my thoughts.
[All students, please proceed to the arrival area to collect your student card, and at 18:00, all newcomers must go to the awakening room. Of course, do not forget that after picking up your card, you must go to the auditorium to listen to the welcome speech.]
After hearing the message, I started walking towards the place where I needed to collect my student ID. I looked around curiously, and everything I saw seemed impressive. Man, after living in a world without magic or gods, I guess the change I am undergoing is normal.
Narrator: POV
Alex arrived at the designated area to collect his card; he wasn't the only one there, several students who had arrived earlier were also there. Everyone was waiting for their card while forming an orderly line.
When it was Alex's turn, a young woman about 25 years old served him kindly. She asked for his name and identification number. After hearing Alex's response and nodding to see that all the details were correct, she gave him the card; Alexander Blade #999.
With a look of curiosity, he couldn't help but ask, "Excuse me, what does the number next to my name mean?" The woman, with a look of pity, answered that it represented his ranking among the first-year students.
"And how many first-year students are there?" He asked again, desperation visible in his eyes, to which the lady simply replied with an embarrassed voice: "A thousand."
A dead look on his face and a weak nod were all Alex could muster before turning around to look for the auditorium for the welcome ceremony.
His eyes, which had lost all their light, could not be the subject of whispers as he walked. People wondered what had happened to him, but due to the poor look he had, no one was interested enough to ask him.
Sighing and questioning his life, he arrived at the hall.
The hall where the welcome speech is given at the Academy of Myths and Legends is an impressive architectural masterpiece that blends the grandeur of ancient temples with the magic and mystery of a modern era. This space, known as the Hall of Heroes, is designed to inspire and awe all who cross its thresholds. Upon entering, the first thing that captures attention is the magnificently high vaulted ceiling, adorned with a vast mural depicting the night sky. The painted stars and constellations glow with a soft light, guiding the gaze toward the central full moon that bathes the hall in a silvery glow, creating the illusion of being under an open sky on a clear, tranquil night.
The walls of the hall are carved from stone, with reliefs and frescoes narrating the feats of legendary heroes from various cultures and eras, from brave knights and cunning warriors to powerful mages and mythological beings. These images are imbued with subtle magic that seems to bring them to life, with figures moving almost imperceptibly, making the ancient stories come alive before the spectators' eyes.
The floor is made of polished marble, reflecting the light from magical torches and floating chandeliers that illuminate the space, creating an effect of stars reflected in a tranquil lake. The floor's design is an intricate labyrinth, symbolizing the hero's journey, with a path leading directly to the central podium.
The podium is situated in the heart of the hall, on a small elevation ensuring the speaker is visible from all corners. It is carved from a single block of clear stone, adorned with ancient symbols and runes that glow with their own light, granting the speaker an almost ethereal presence.
Around the podium, semicircles of stone seats provide space for students and teachers, designed to foster a sense of community and unity. Despite the hardness of the material, the seats are enchanted to provide comfort to their occupants, allowing them to fully concentrate on the words being spoken.
The Hall of Heroes is not just a meeting place; it is a sanctuary dedicated to knowledge, bravery, and the pursuit of excellence. Here, in this hall, the future heroes of humanity are welcomed and reminded of their destiny, a space where the magic of the past intertwines with the promise of the future.
After marveling at the sanctuary, he looked for a seat nearby. It didn't take long to find a place, and as soon as he sat down, the person next to him gave him a warm greeting.
"Hi, how are you? Delighted to meet you. My name is Joe, and you?" The smile he had and the joy he radiated could tell he was a quite hyperactive person. A change of pace from what Alex was used to, he hesitantly shook his hand and introduced himself.
"My name is Alexander, a pleasure." Surprisingly, he introduced himself in a somewhat dry manner, as if not leaving room for conversation, something that surprised not only Joe but also Alex himself, who didn't remember being such a cold person. Little did he know that since he arrived in this world, he hadn't cracked a single smile and that, despite how he felt inside, he always displayed a rather stoic image on the outside. Joe seemed to be looking for a way to continue the conversation with the ice cube he had by his side, until the speech began.
Dear students, teachers, and everyone gathered under the vast canopy of our esteemed Academy of Myths and Legends,
Today we stand on the threshold of a new chapter, not just in our lives but in the perpetual saga of humanity. This academy, a crucible where tomorrow's heroes are forged, opens its doors to a new generation of brave souls, ready to inscribe their names in the pages of history.
You are here because each of you possesses a spark, a unique potential that goes beyond the ordinary. Here, at the Academy of Myths and Legends, that spark will be nurtured, challenged, and transformed into an unextinguishable flame that will illuminate the darkest corners of our world.
Our mission is grand, almost as ancient as the myths we study. We face corruption, not only that which lies in the hearts of men but also that which takes root in the forgotten confines of our reality. Here, where past, present, and future intertwine, you will learn to combat the shadows with the light of truth, justice, and bravery.
But remember, being a hero is not merely wielding a sword against an enemy. It is finding the strength to do what is right when all seems lost. It is the ability to rise again and again, despite adversities. It is, above all, the courage to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
In the days to come, you will face trials that will push you to the limits of your abilities. You will study the great epics, unravel the secrets of ancient powers, and learn the art of war. But also, and this is equally important, you will learn about yourselves. About who you really are and who you can become.
Around you, you will see faces from all over the world, each with their own story, their own dreams, and fears. I urge you to support one another, to find strength in your diversity, and to build friendships that transcend time. Together, you are stronger. Together, you can change the world.
So, as you move forward, do so with your head held high and your heart firm. Carry the banner of our Academy of Myths and Legends with pride, for you represent not only this institution but also the hope of all humanity.
Welcome, future heroes. Your legend begins today.
I didn't know at what moment the speech started, I only knew that I began to pay attention to the man who had delivered it when it ended.