It had been about a week since I'd started attending the academy, and I was surprised by how quickly I'd adjusted to life as a student.
With Zuria, Kai, and Lyra by my side, I felt like I was finally a part of something bigger than myself.
The academy was buzzing with excitement as students and staff prepared for the upcoming Morvit Festival. The festival was an annual event that showcased the skills and talents of the students, and it seemed like everyone was eager to participate.
"Didn't you watch it last year?" Kai asked, his mouth full of freshly baked scones.
I shook my head, feeling a twinge of awkwardness. "No, I didn't unfortunately."
The truth was, I hadn't been interested in the festival last year. I was still trying to gather information about my parents, and I hadn't had time for frivolous events.
Kai's eyes sparkled with excitement. "It was awesome! I was with my sister last time..."
But before he could finish, Lyra punched him in the head, clearly irritated by his constant yelling while she tried to study, finally silencing him. "Do you want to get punched too?" she asked, her eyes blazing with fury.
Kai rubbed the back of his head, muttering under his breath. "I was going to say the fights were pretty epic."
That caught my attention. "Fights?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
Kai explained that the highlight of the festival was a tournament among students. I found myself getting more and more interested in the idea.
Just then, Professor Thorne walked in, a stern expression on his face. "Registration for the Morvit Festival is now open. Each class will produce at least five students to participate."
He scanned the room, his eyes locking onto me. "So, anyone who wishes to register, please rise."
There was a moment of silence, and then Kai jumped up, his voice booming across the room. "Sign me up!"
His sudden confidence burst brightened up the whole room. The other students couldn't help but feel a sense of motivation almost convincing them to participate.
I couldn't help but smile at his antics. Lyra stood up next, and then, to my surprise, Kai and Lyra grabbed me and lifted me to my feet.
I tried to protest, but it was too late. Professor Thorne had already noted my name down.
And to be honest he seemed abit too happy while that grin on the corner of his mouth.
Damn you professor.....
Later that day, the three of us met up with Zuria, who was trying to convince me that participating in the festival wasn't such a bad idea.
"It's not so bad," she said, patting me on the back. "I'm participating too."
I wiped away tears, laughing. "How did you end up participating?" I asked.
Zuria explained that all student council members were required to participate, as a way of leading by example.
As we chatted, a fellow council member came over, requesting Zuria's presence at a meeting. "Your needed for a meeting in the council room," he said, his voice firm and authoritative.
Zuria waved goodbye, and as she walked away with the council member, our eyes met for a brief moment. I sensed a flash of hostility from him.
"Who is he?" I asked Lyra, who seemed to have information on every student.
"Maxwell Lè Bonderee," she replied. "Eldest son of the Bonderee family, and their next heir. He's considered very talented, even among nobles."
I raised an eyebrow. "He's Benedict's older brother."
Lyra nodded. "That's right. And unlike his half-brother, Maxwell commands respect."
I could understand why he might be hostile towards me, considering I'd put his brother in the hospital.
But for some reason I felt unease..
As the day drew to a close, I made my way back to my dorm, only to find that my lights were on. I prepared myself for anything, and as I opened the door, I was greeted by an unexpected visit.
"Gosu," I said, my voice laced with confusion.
Gosu was standing in my room, accompanied by Reynod and Professor Thorne.
"Can you three explain why you're here?" I asked, taking a seat and crossing my legs.
Reynod spoke up, his voice calm and measured. "We're here to discuss the matter concerning Benedict Lè Bonderee."
I leaned forward, my attention piqued.
As they explained the situation, I realized that Benedict had undergone an unusual transformation during our duel. Traces of an illegal drug had been found in his body, a drug that enhanced physical strength and magical power.
I listened intently, my mind racing with questions. "What kind of drug?" I asked, my voice firm.
Reynod's expression turned serious. "An enhancement drug. It boosts one's physical strength, magical power, and mana levels."
I felt a surge of anger. "Who would do something like that?" I demanded.
Professor Thorne leaned forward, his eyes locked onto mine. "That's what we need your help to find out, Einar. We believe that someone is supplying this drug to the students, and we need you to help us uncover who it is."
I nodded, determination coursing through my veins. "I'll do it."
Gosu smiled, a hint of pride in his eyes. "I knew I could count on you, Einar."
As they left, Gosu turned to me with a serious expression. "Take care of Zuria while you're at it."
I nodded, feeling a sense of responsibility wash over me.
With a newfound sense of purpose, I set out to uncover the truth behind the illegal drug and the mysterious supplier. Little did I know that this was just the beginning of a much larger adventure....
Einar's self notes
To be honest I'm kinda awesome.. I mean why else would Gosu come to me for help....yep it's clear I'm the best.