The next day, the students of Starshade Academy enjoyed a well-deserved rest since it was the weekend. While many opted for leisure activities, Aric was eager to learn more about becoming a great wizard and making a name for Moonshadow Glen. Deciding to spend his day in the Grand Library, he hoped to uncover more knowledge and secrets.
The Grand Library was a vast repository of magical knowledge, filled with ancient tomes, scrolls, and magical artifacts. The sentient bookshelves guided students to the knowledge they sought, ensuring that everyone found exactly what they needed.
As Aric entered the library, he marveled at the towering shelves and the soft glow of magical lanterns. He approached a sentient bookshelf, which swayed slightly in acknowledgment.
"Good morning," Aric greeted the bookshelf politely. "I'm looking for books on advanced spellcasting and the history of Starshade Academy."
The bookshelf seemed to consider his request before a few volumes floated off the shelves and landed gently on a nearby table. Aric thanked the bookshelf and settled in to read.
Hours passed as Aric absorbed the information from the books. He came across a passage in an old, dusty tome that mentioned the existence of a forgotten house—The House of the Wolf.
"The House of the Wolf," Aric muttered to himself, intrigued. "Once a proud and revered house at Starshade Academy... hidden passages... enchanted doors..."
He read on, learning that the House of the Wolf was located beneath the Celestial Hall, concealed behind a large tapestry depicting a lunar eclipse. The entrance was enchanted to appear as an ordinary piece of art unless approached by someone with a specific magical resonance or carrying an ancient token tied to the house.
Aric's heart raced as he realized the locket he wore, a family heirloom, might be the ancient token mentioned in the text. Determined to uncover the truth, he closed the book and set off to find the tapestry.
Navigating through the maze-like corridors of the Grand Library, Aric finally found an obscure corner where a dusty, faded tapestry hung. It depicted a beautiful lunar eclipse, just as described in the book.
"This must be it," Aric whispered, reaching out to touch the tapestry. As his fingers brushed the fabric, a soft glow emanated from his locket, and the tapestry shimmered, revealing a hidden passageway behind it.
Aric stepped through the passage and found himself in a narrow, winding corridor. The walls were adorned with ancient symbols and faintly glowing runes. He proceeded cautiously, feeling a sense of excitement and trepidation.
As he ventured deeper, the corridor opened into a large, underground chamber. The room was filled with the remnants of the House of the Wolf—old banners, dusty furniture, and forgotten artifacts.
Aric couldn't believe his eyes. "This place... it's real," he breathed, stepping further into the chamber.
Suddenly, he heard a rustling sound behind him. Turning around, he saw Professor Elara Moonshade standing at the entrance, a look of amazement on her face.
"Aric," she said softly, "how did you find this place?"
"I read about it in an old book," Aric explained. "The tapestry in the Grand Library, my locket... it all led me here."
Professor Moonshade nodded, her eyes scanning the room. "The House of the Wolf has been forgotten for centuries. Only a true descendant of the house could have found it."
Aric's eyes widened. "You mean... I'm a descendant of the House of the Wolf?"
"Yes," Professor Moonshade confirmed. "Your locket is the ancient token that binds you to this house. There is much you need to learn, Aric. The prophecy is tied to your lineage. You have a great destiny ahead of you."
Aric felt a mix of emotions—shock, pride, and a sense of responsibility. "I want to learn everything, Professor. I want to fulfill the prophecy and make my family proud."
"And you will," Professor Moonshade assured him. "But for now, let's explore this place and uncover its secrets together."
As they delved deeper into the hidden chamber, Aric knew that his journey at Starshade Academy had only just begun. The discovery of the House of the Wolf and the prophecy of the Eternal Flame marked the start of an incredible adventure, one that would test his abilities and shape his destiny.
Suddenly, Professor Moonshade halted and turned to Aric with an apologetic expression. "I'm sorry, Aric," she said softly. "But I am not who you think I am."
Before Aric could react, a shimmer of magic enveloped Professor Moonshade. Her form shifted and transformed, revealing a tall man with dark hair, sharp green eyes, and a stern yet enigmatic presence.
"My name is Thorne Darkmoon," the man announced, his voice resonating with authority. "Young master of the Wolf, sole descendant of this once-great house. I've been waiting for you for a long time, Aric."
Aric stared in disbelief. "Thorne Darkmoon? But why... how...?"
Thorne's stern expression softened slightly. "There is much you need to know, Aric. I am your mentor and guardian for the House of the Wolf, here to guide you on this path. The prophecy of the future concerns both of us, and I have recognized your potential."
Aric's mind raced as he tried to comprehend the revelation. "So, you're here to help me?"
"Indeed," Thorne replied, his tone firm. "You have the blood of the House of the Wolf running through your veins. It's time for you to embrace your destiny and unlock your true potential."
"Wait," Aric interrupted, holding up a hand. "You mean to tell me that all this time, you've just been pretending to be Professor Moonshade? That's... kind of creepy."
Thorne rolled his eyes. "Focus, Aric. There are more important things at hand."
Aric chuckled. "Well, at least now I know why Professor Moonshade's voice always sounded like she swallowed gravel."
Thorne sighed, trying to maintain his stern demeanor. "Can we please stay on topic?I only change to her just now,the one you be seeing is the original all the time"
Aric straightened up, trying to look serious. "Oh curses....right, sorry. So, what do we do now, Thorne?"
Thorne nodded approvingly. "First, we need to explore this chamber and understand its secrets. The House of the Wolf was renowned for its leadership, transformation magic, and strategic thinking. These traits are essential for what lies ahead."
They continued their exploration, discovering relics like the Wolf Amulet, the Lupine Grimoire, and the Moonstone Staff. Each artifact held immense power and significance for the house.
Thorne explained, "These artifacts will aid you in mastering your abilities. The Wolf Amulet enhances strength and agility, the Lupine Grimoire contains powerful spells, and the Moonstone Staff amplifies your transformation magic."
Aric listened intently, feeling the weight of his responsibility. "But why was the House of the Wolf hidden away?"
Thorne's expression grew serious. "Centuries ago, a series of dark events led to its disbandment. The details are lost to time, but I believe it involves powerful and forbidden magic. The academy sought to protect its secrets, and thus the house was erased from history."
As they delved deeper, Aric's confidence grew. He felt a profound connection to the house and a burning desire to uncover its legacy. Thorne's guidance was invaluable, and Aric knew he had much to learn.
"Aric," Thorne said, placing a hand on his shoulder, "you have the potential to restore the House of the Wolf to its former glory. But it will not be easy. You must train hard, learn to trust in your abilities, and embrace your destiny."
Aric nodded, determination gleaming in his eyes. "I'm ready, Thorne. I'll do whatever it takes."
Thorne smiled, a rare but genuine expression. "Good. Let us begin your training. The prophecy of t awaits, and together, we will uncover its secrets."
As they started to leave the chamber, Aric couldn't help but grin. "So, do I have to start calling you 'Mr. Darkmoon' now, or can I stick with 'Professor Gravel-Voice'?"
Thorne chuckled, shaking his head. "Just Thorne will do. Now, let's get to work."
With that, they set out to unlock the mysteries of the House of the Wolf, determined to revive its powerful heritage and prepare for the challenges that lay ahead. The journey was just beginning, and Aric knew that with Thorne Darkmoon's guidance, he would become one of the greatest wizard of his generation.