The carriage adorned with the emblem of the Kanon family arrived just as others pulled up, signaling the grand entrance to Hoxrrary Academy of Arcane —a renowned institution celebrated for fostering extraordinary talent. Here, the heirs of fifty-three noble families had gathered, and surprisingly, even commoners stood a chance to enroll through scholarships from the royal house or other noble families.
"Quite the scenery we have here," Ashura remarked, stepping down from the carriage. He cast his gaze over the students milling about the gathering point, their eyes fixed on the welcome letters displayed prominently at the academy.
"Young Lord, do you need help with your luggage?" the carriage driver asked, concern etched on his face as he looked at Ashura.
Ashura smiled gently at the man. "You don't need to act like a servant around me. After all, I am a defactous. I cannot offer you a substantial pay or a grand reward. If you'd like, I can recommend you to my brother. They know how to treat their servants well."
Just as Ashura turned to walk away, the carriage driver grabbed his hand. "It's true that I want a good reward, but that doesn't mean I work only for them. What matters most is having a good master. Unlike other noble kids, you don't treat us commoners like dirt. You treat us as equals, and I think that's the best reward I could ask for."
Surprised by the driver's words, Ashura raised an eyebrow. "Oh, you certainly know how to speak well. What's your name?"
The carriage driver beamed, bowing slightly. "My name is Dino." He pronounced it as if it were the most prized name in the world.
"Dino, huh? Means 'little sword.' I can't say if that's fitting, given how you were trembling earlier," Ashura said warmly, suppressing a laugh.
Dino's face turned almost as red as a ripe tomato under Ashura's teasing. "Alright, Dino. It seems we'll be together for quite some time. Make sure to take care of yourself," Ashura said, beginning to walk toward the gathering point.
Dino whispered quietly, casting his eyes downward as he looked at Ashura's retreating form, "And may you be protected wherever you go."
### At the Gathering Point
As Ashura surveyed the gathering point, he recognized many of the noble kids—some familiar and some strangers. It appeared that seniors were in charge of welcoming the new students this year. Among them stood three individuals who caught Ashura's attention.
First was Mers Astra, the second son of the Astra family, renowned as the Fire Pillar for his exceptional fire magic defense. His bright red hair and blazing pupils were striking. He possessed a slim yet muscular build, and on his right ear dangled an artifact known as Salamander Rising.
Next was his own brother, Veramount Kanon. Unlike Ashura's dark hair, Veramount sported white hair, flawless as snow, a trait revered by many but nerve-wracking for Ashura, who often encountered him unexpectedly in the dark. Veramount's grey pupils resembled those of a predator, his physique sculpted as though by divine hands. He wore his uniform constantly—Ashura often wondered if he ever tired of it.
Lastly, there was Alexia Asmodeus, dubbed the Flower Dancer. Her title was deceptive, as she acted according to her principles rather than societal expectations. With long pink hair flowing gracefully in the breeze, she conversed easily with other students, exuding a feline agility.
"Let's avoid running into them. Just thinking about it is already enough trouble," Ashura muttered, his expression weary as he clutched his small bag.
"Alright, everyone! I know you're all excited, but we must hurry to your orientation or we're going to be late!" Mers said warmly, prompting the new students to move toward the grand Hall of Foundation, the prestigious heart of Hoxrrary Academy. They beheld the hall in awe, its walls steeped in rich history.
"Please, sit according to the number of your letters," Alexia instructed in a formal, cool voice. She then turned to Veramount. "I heard your youngest brother entered the academy. How do you feel about that?"
To her surprise, Veramount dismissed the comment with indifference. "Hmmm, that idiot will probably drop out on his own. This place is for the worthy, and he's full of laziness." His gaze was devoid of concern for Ashura.
"Oh come on, this is why you're no fun to hang out with. If he truly fails as the rumors say, then his dropout is nothing but guaranteed," Alexia retorted, glancing toward Ashura.
From Ashura's perspective, he felt as though a predatory gaze was fixed upon him, even though he had yet to do anything worthy of it. *Sigh…* he thought, *This academy is truly full of eccentricities.* And so, he awaited the start of the orientation ceremony, immersed in a mix of anticipation and trepidation.