The Royals Institute School was an institution of renown, known as a place where only children of royal families and elite households studied, surrounded by traditions and legacies centuries old. Every building in the institute radiated a sense of grandeur and exclusivity, its ancient stone halls echoing with the footsteps of noble families' heirs. This was a place where every student's background was a badge of honor—except, of course, for a few rare students like Jacob, who had entered through an obscure path, hidden from the truth of their own lineage.
After arranging Jacob's admission, Alfred walked him through the campus grounds. "Alright, Jacob. From today, you will stay here," he said, gesturing to the massive, ivy-clad dormitory in the distance. The size and majesty of the campus left Jacob in awe. He'd never been in a place quite like this, where even the air seemed to whisper of secrets and history.
Alfred stopped and looked at him, his expression serious. "Make sure no one finds out your true identity," he warned. "Your admission here is as a *reserve student*, and for the next six years, until you turn 18, you must keep your identity hidden. If anyone finds out who you are, it could jeopardize everything. Here," he added, handing Jacob a simple but high-quality phone, "this will allow you to stay in touch with your mother. And take this card," he continued, passing Jacob a sleek, black card embossed with gold letters. "It has one million dollars loaded on it, which should support your activities here. Use it wisely."
Jacob nodded, still taking in the weight of his uncle's words. The enormity of his task felt like a stone on his chest, yet he knew he didn't have much choice. He accepted the phone and card, his fingers brushing the edges as though they were symbols of a new life he hadn't chosen.
After a final look, Alfred gave Jacob a short nod and left. Jacob watched him go, then turned back to the grand entrance of the dormitory. Taking a deep breath, he walked inside.
Later, Jacob found his classroom and stood at the door for a moment, feeling the curiosity of his fellow students prickling his skin. With a quiet request, he asked for permission from the teacher, who directed him to a seat at the back. He walked carefully to his place, acutely aware of the whispers and curious glances from his classmates.
The morning passed slowly, with Jacob catching glimpses of the other students who wore polished uniforms and carried themselves with ease, as though they belonged here. Befor lunch, as he made his way to the dining hall, he noticed several students eyeing him with interest.
Soon enough, a group of boys circled around him. "So, which royal family do you belong to?" one of them asked, sizing him up with a scrutinizing look.
Jacob hesitated before answering, "I'm from a middle-class family and am here as a reserve student." He hoped his calm tone would deflect further questions, but the answer only fueled their curiosity.
A boy with a regal bearing, wearing a small insignia on his collar, smirked and took a step closer. "A lowly person, someone beneath us. Do you know who I am?" he asked, his voice tinged with disdain. "I am Albert, and my family is one of the generals of the Stuart family."
Hearing this, Jacob felt a flare of anger rise within him. He clenched his fists but forced himself to maintain a look of subdued shock, as though he'd been taken aback by Albert's words. Jacob replied quietly, "So, what should I do about it?"
Albert's eyes narrowed, and he raised his hand as if to strike him. Just then, the sports teacher, Mr. Sam, appeared and commanded, "Everyone, back to your seats!" The boys dispersed, but not without throwing glares back at Jacob.
Relieved, Jacob made his way back to his seat. Shortly after, two girls entered the classroom and took the seats beside him. They both seemed different from the other students, a bit more grounded. One of them, a girl with bright, curious eyes and an infectious smile, leaned over and introduced herself. "Hi, I'm Olivia," she said warmly. "We're also reserve students. It's nice to meet you."
Jacob managed a small smile and replied, "Same here." He glanced over at the other girl, who had a quieter demeanor but whose soft smile held kindness. "I'm Isabella," she said shyly, giving him a nod. There was a subtle glimmer in her eyes, as though she were studying him and trying to understand the mystery he carried.
The lunch bell rang, and as the students began filing out, Olivia and Isabella lingered. After a moment, Olivia spoke up again, her voice softer this time. "We know it can be hard here. People can be… well, you've already met some of the less friendly types." She glanced in the direction Albert had gone, and Jacob noticed a slight frown.
Jacob nodded, grateful for the empathy in her tone. "I've noticed," he replied, his voice low. For the first time since he'd arrived, he felt a sense of relief wash over him. He wasn't entirely alone here.
As they stood in the empty classroom, Isabella turned to him, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "Jacob," she said hesitantly, "Olivia and I were wondering… would you like to be friends with us?"
Jacob looked at both of them, a gentle warmth filling his chest. "I'd like that," he replied, a soft smile spreading across his face.
Isabella's eyes lit up, and she exchanged a smile with Olivia. The three of them stood there in quiet understanding, feeling a bond form—a small spark of friendship in a place that often felt cold and unfamiliar. In that moment, a sense of belonging started to take root, and Jacob felt a flicker of hope.
As the bell rang again, Olivia gave him a playful nudge. "Let's go grab lunch together," she said, her voice bright with excitement.
And as they walked out together, Jacob couldn't help but feel that, despite the secrets and challenges, maybe, just maybe, he would find something here worth holding onto.
**Author's Thought:**
In this chapter, the author delves into the complexities of identity, secrecy, and the weight of hidden truths. Jacob's journey at Royals Institute represents a new world filled with privilege, hierarchy, and silent battles for status—elements foreign to him yet unavoidable. Through his introduction as a *reserve student*, the author subtly explores themes of belonging and resilience, as Jacob must navigate this challenging environment while concealing his true background. The interactions with characters like Albert, who embodies the entitled elite, and Olivia and Isabella, who extend friendship despite class differences, highlight the contrasting dynamics Jacob will face.
The author's intention here is to depict the internal struggle of a young boy who must balance duty and survival. Jacob's friendships offer a glimmer of hope, suggesting that genuine connections can transcend social divides. This chapter is a testament to Jacob's resolve and sets the stage for his growth, where he learns that sometimes, to protect oneself and those one loves, one must carry the burden of secrets and embrace unexpected allies.