The morning air of Bolivia City was crisp and invigorating, the free city alive with energy as its bustling streets woke to another day. A lone figure emerged from the warp portal near the gates of Adencia Van Academy.
Ray stepped through, his silver hair catching the light as it flared slightly in the gentle breeze. Birds chirped nearby, and a faint buzz of activity reached his ears as he took in the sight before him.
The academy gates loomed tall and majestic, a symbol of prestige and Knowledge. Around him, a few students were already present, registering their IDs which is presented through a bracelet, and engaging in small conversations.
Despite the academy's strict uniform guidelines, a white shirt with black pants, highlighted with Blue stripes, paired with a dark blue coat denoting first-year students, it allowed for personalization in fit and comfort. This detail was something Ray appreciated, as his attire subtly stood out amidst the crowd.
He wore the uniform with a twist, the coat discarded, leaving a white shirt embroidered with faint golden lines meant for first rankers, its sleeves rolled up to showcase his well-defined forearms. The first two buttons of his shirt were undone, revealing a hint of his collarbone. His black pants and matching shoes complemented his sharp appearance, and his signature gloves concealed the insignia on his hand. His recent haircut from his long hair, highlighted his striking facial features even more. As he walked towards the gates, hands casually tucked in his pockets, his composed demeanor drew attention.
A group of girls at the entrance couldn't help but steal glances, their faces turning a shade pink as whispers of admiration spread. Ray, oblivious or perhaps deliberately indifferent, proceeded to the registration desk. After presenting his ID bracelet, the staff handed him a set of keys to his dorm and updated his bracelet with certain privileges he had earned as the academy's topper.
"Congratulations, Mr. Ray," the staff member said, her smile polite yet curious.
"Your achievements have earned you a few merits already. Keep up the exemplary work."
Ray offered a small nod in acknowledgment before walking through the gates. His calm, unbothered presence only heightened his mystique, and he could feel several lingering gazes on him as he made his way to the dorms.
The dormitory building was expansive, its towering structure divided into sections for students based on their performance and year. The topmost floors were reserved for the best students, the toppers of each year.
On his way up, Ray encountered a familiar figure, the senior girl who had previously confronted him during one of his ventures.
Their eyes met briefly before Ray inclined his head slightly, greeting her with a calm,
"Good morning, senior."
Taken aback by his frankness, the girl recovered quickly, offering a faint smile.
"Morning..... So, today's the big day, huh? It seems we'll be crossing paths often from now on. I'll see you at the induction ceremony," she added before stepping aside.
Ray nodded once more and continued to his assigned room. After arranging his belongings in the p space, he settled into meditation, focusing on his energy flow. Arriving early had its advantages, allowing him some solitude before the day's events fully unfolded.
----
Across the academy grounds, the bustling activity grew as more students arrived, registering their IDs and heading to their respective rooms. Among them was Lily Dragonborne, who, despite her usual composure, seemed somewhat dazed. Her thoughts were preoccupied with Ray, and she found herself glancing around, hoping to catch sight of him amidst the crowd.
As the day progressed, the time for the induction ceremony arrived. Freshmen gathered in the grand hall, joined by the second and third years, while the fourth and fifth years remained absent, occupied with external missions.
The hall was a spectacle in itself, its high ceilings adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering lights. Rows of seats stretched out, filled with eager students awaiting the official start.
Ray entered the hall quietly, his presence commanding attention without effort. Spotting an empty seat near Jake, he made his way over and sat down. Jake, whose excitement was palpable, turned to Ray with wide eyes, fumbling slightly as he introduced himself.
"Hello, Mr. Ray! My name is Jake—uh, um..."
Ray interrupted, his tone friendly yet firm.
"Just call me Ray."
Jake's face lit up at the casual address.
"Ray! It's great to meet you. I'm so excited to be here. It's been my dream to join the academy, to learn new things and make friends!" His voice trailed off as a hint of sadness clouded his expression.
Ray, understanding the sentiment, replied evenly,
"Well, I don't have many friends either, just a few I've met here. You can count yourself as one of them now."
Jake's expression brightened instantly, his eyes gleaming with gratitude.
"Really? You mean it? You'll be my friend?"
Ray gulped slightly, feeling the intensity of Jake's hopeful gaze.
"Yes, yes. Of course, Jake."
Before the conversation could continue, a voice cut through the air as a man stepped onto the stage.
The man was lean and impeccably dressed, his formal attire sharp and neat, complemented by a pair of thin glasses that gleamed under the lights. His demeanor exuded authority as he introduced himself.
"My name is Yen Williams. I am the dean of the first years. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the entrance examination due to unforeseen circumstances. However, I have heard much about this year's cohort."
His voice carried a subtle edge as he continued.
"Remarkable feats, I've been told, some of you have even exceeded expectations, while others have shattered common sense...."
As he spoke, his eyes turned a deep purple, scanning the crowd. Ray felt a strange sensation as Yen's gaze swept past him. Unlike the others, the dean did not pause or seem to take note of him, yet Ray's instincts were on high alert.
Yen's voice sharpened as he concluded.
"Indeed, these remarks seem warranted. I expect great things from all of you. But be warned, the path ahead will be grueling."
Ray activated his Eyes of Limbo briefly, attempting to discern more about Yen Williams. What he saw was incomprehensible, a swirl of energies that defied logic. A sharp pain struck his head, forcing him to deactivate the skill.
As the dean wrapped up his speech, Ray leaned back in his seat, his expression neutral. He thought he had encountered all the prominent figures of the academy, but Yen Williams was proving to be an enigma.
Just who is he? Ray mused, his curiosity piqued as the ceremony continued.