The lively hum of conversation filled the grand hall as the opening ceremony came to an end, giving way to the evening's festivities. Elegant chandeliers cast their warm glow over the gathering of young nobles, knights, and mages, their faces alight with excitement and curiosity. Laughter echoed through the space, and the gentle clink of glasses formed a steady rhythm. This was more than just a social event—it was a rite of passage for the heirs of the Empire, an opportunity to forge alliances and connections that would shape the future.
I adjusted my formal coat, the fabric lined with subtle silver thread that shimmered under the soft light, and scanned the room. My siblings, Edward and Guillermina, stood nearby, chatting with Elara, whose serene expression was a contrast to the noise and chaos around her. They were adjusting quickly to the environment, which gave me some relief. Yet, even as I greeted familiar faces and introduced them to professors and old acquaintances, my thoughts were elsewhere—focused on a strange but compelling presence I had sensed the moment the festivities began.
It wasn't long before I found the source.
Across the room, standing alone and surveying the gathering with a calm, focused expression, was Puttock Morrison. His emerald eyes gleamed with intelligence and curiosity, and his posture was relaxed but purposeful, like that of a predator assessing its surroundings. He was tall, with auburn hair that fell just above his shoulders, and his coat was trimmed with intricate green embroidery—the unmistakable insignia of the Morrison family, descendants of the Wind Dragon King.
I approached him, intrigued. As I drew closer, I felt it—the unmistakable aura of power, hidden but undeniable. His strength, even at a glance, was something I hadn't encountered before, not in anyone my age. It was subtle, yet layered, like the breeze before a storm—gentle, but carrying the promise of overwhelming force. Gold rank, level 4. The realization hit me like a jolt, and it was all I could do to keep my expression neutral. Until now, I thought no one my age could rival my strength, but here was someone I could treat as an equal.
"Raimon Flower," I introduced myself with a polite nod, extending my hand.
Puttock's gaze sharpened as he studied me, a flicker of interest crossing his features. "Puttock Morrison," he replied, clasping my hand with a firm grip. His handshake was confident, neither too strong nor too weak, a small but telling sign of his balanced nature.
"It's rare to meet someone with such presence," I remarked, my words careful yet genuine. "I wasn't expecting anyone quite like you at the Institute."
A faint smile tugged at the corners of Puttock's mouth. "Likewise. I didn't think I'd meet someone who'd notice so quickly."
There was an honesty in his gaze, and despite the quiet intensity that surrounded him, I sensed no arrogance. Just strength, intelligence, and a desire for connection. He hadn't come here to boast or prove himself—he had come searching for something more.
"I spent most of my life inside the Morrison estate," he admitted after a brief pause. "My father was strict. Said I needed to focus on my training before stepping into the world. I guess I'm finally free to see what's out here... and who's out here."
I nodded, understanding more than I let on. "If you're looking for someone to test yourself against, I wouldn't mind a private duel," I offered with a slight grin.
His emerald eyes lit up, and a smile spread across his face. "I'll hold you to that, Raimon. Soon."
There was a mutual respect in our exchange, a silent acknowledgment that we were alike in ways that words couldn't quite capture. As the conversation continued, we discussed our training, goals, and experiences, and the more we talked, the clearer it became that Puttock was someone worth knowing. His honesty and sharp mind were refreshing, and his desire for genuine friendship was something I hadn't expected but welcomed.
The evening continued, and I introduced Puttock to my siblings and Elara. Edward greeted him with a nod, while Guillermina, ever the social butterfly, struck up an easy conversation about swordplay and family traditions. Elara, as usual, was reserved but polite, observing quietly from the sidelines.
After parting ways with Puttock, I spent the rest of the night navigating the crowded hall, mingling with nobles of all ranks. The younger heirs of minor and intermediate families approached me with eager smiles, hoping to secure favor or friendship. I responded politely, introducing Edward, Guillermina, and Elara when appropriate.
"This is Edward and Guillermina Flower, my younger siblings," I said more than once. "And this is Elara—soon to be one of the finest mages the Institute has ever seen."
Edward, with his quiet confidence, won people over easily, while Guillermina's lively spirit brought laughter wherever she went. Elara remained slightly withdrawn, but her presence carried weight—there was a calm, almost regal air about her that intrigued many.
As the evening wore on, the excitement of the night began to wane. I escorted my siblings back to their dormitory, making sure they were settled in for the night. Edward yawned loudly, already exhausted from the day's events, while Guillermina tried to convince him to play one last game before bed. Elara gave me a small, knowing smile as she bid me goodnight, her eyes reflecting the same contentment I felt after a long but fulfilling day.
Finally, I made my way back to my own room. The corridors were quiet now, illuminated only by the faint glow of enchanted lanterns. Outside, the moon hung high in the sky, surrounded by a blanket of stars. I paused for a moment at the window, letting the cool night breeze wash over me.
So much had happened in just a single day. Meeting Puttock Morrison, reconnecting with old friends, and watching my siblings take their first steps into this new world—it was overwhelming, but in the best way possible.
I knew the challenges ahead wouldn't be easy, and with Cedric and Kira gone, the weight of responsibility felt heavier than ever. But tonight, beneath the starry sky, I allowed myself a rare moment of peace. This was just the beginning—of new friendships, new discoveries, and new adventures.
As I turned away from the window and settled into bed, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement for what the future held. The road ahead would be long, but I was ready.
And I had a feeling that Puttock Morrison, with his quiet strength and storm-like presence, would play a crucial part in the journey to come.