Once again, the pilot initiated the warp, and one of the three remaining dragon scales began to glow. Tesric, Arden, and Quinn braced themselves for the teleport, gripping whatever was within reach, which was mostly each other, to steady themselves.
Tesric's eyes locked onto the corner where Serena had disappeared into the shadows. He was concerned if she might have needed assistance, but froze as the shadows in the corner seemed to… grow? He turned around and chose to just not mess with the creepy stuff.
When the warp was completed, the scene below them was blinding. The three students found themselves hovering above a city so expensive and haughty that it looked like a treasure chest. Buildings were coated with gold, and even ordinary objects like street lamps had diamond crusts.
Arden turned towards the educated people next to him, hoping for another explanation to their location.
But, before either could respond, the pilot stepped in. "The golden city of Valdros! A Land where even the dirt is probably worth more than me." he declared with amusement. "And it looks like we'll even get a warm welcome! hehehe." he chuckled as he gestured to the crowd gathering at the docks below.
The students leaned over the railing of the airship to get a better look at the massive crowd that had assembled, the people down below were waving signs and posters featuring the face of a handsome young man. A marching band was present also, playing a triumphant tune with drums and trumpets.
Alongside the crowd and the parade band, we're soldiers in emerald armor that flanked an extravagant red carpet, stretching from the city's grand plaza all the way to the airship dock.
A regal figure stood at the far end of the carpet, commanding the attention of the people. The man was dressed in flowing robes embroidered with golden decorations and wearing a jeweled crown, holding in his hands a magic device that amplified his voice with magic.
"People of Valdros!" he announced with a celebratory tone. "Today, my son and your prince, Darian Altheron! Will embark on his journey to the prestigious Pinkrose Academy! Give him the farewell he deserves!"
The crowd exploded into cheers and songs as they waved banners and chanted the prince's name. The marching band played even more triumphantly, as magic fireworks in the sky exploded, the sparks shaped like the prince's face.
From behind the king, the Prince himself emerged and stepped confidently toward the airship from the end of the carpet. Darian Altheron was the definition of perfection, blonde hair that shined like the sun, dreamy blue eyes, and effortlessly graceful movements. His outfit was immaculate—expensive tailored clothing colored white and gold, adorned with gemstones, and a cape that swayed with every step.
As the prince made his way down to the airship, the three students observed the royal with varying degrees of amusement. He frequently stopped to sign autographs, wink at girls, and even kiss babies on the forehead. The crowd, who were clearly in love with the guy, erupted with cheers at every gesture.
Quinn leaned forward slightly and stroked her chin as she began to share her observations. "From his appearance and haughty behavior, it seems that he is quite an arrog—"
Arden interrupted her comment when he placed a hand on her shoulder."Maybe don't say that out loud, Quinn," he muttered while glancing at the rows of soldiers present in the area. "Not when the guy's entire army is here."
Tesric, ever the confident man he is, turned towards the two with a smile. "Good thing I was raised and taught on how to speak with people like him," he said as he adjusted his collar and fixed his hair. He gestured toward the prince, who was currently climbing the conjured steps. "Just follow my lead," he bragged, with a thumb pointed toward himself.
Arden and Quinn exchanged skeptical looks at each other. Nevertheless, they decided to let Tesric handle it, hoping that he knew what he was doing.
Tesric approached Darian with a practiced smile as he reached the deck. He gave the prince a courteous bow and extended his hand for a handshake."Prince Darian, I am Tesric of House Lestair from Vespera," he said respectfully. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Tesric exuded an air of formality and poise, after all, Madame Lestair made him rehearse this exact moment countless times before.
Darian stared at the hand before him for an uncomfortably long time. His gaze flicking from the hand to Tesric's face and body, silently judging him.
Arden, unable to bear the silence, leaned towards Quinn's ear and whispered his thoughts, "This is not gonna go well, is it?"
Quinn shot him with a side glance, biting her fingernails with concern. "My thoughts exactly."
Finally, Darian scoffed with contempt. "You dare address me as an equal?" he took a dramatic step back like Tesric's very presence was repulsive. "And look at your hand," he gestured at Tesric's calloused palm. "It's so rough… I can't even think about it anymore." he raised the back of his hand and put it on his forehead, as though he was overcome by illness at the mere sight.
Tesric remained impassive at the insults and simply smirked at the prince's antics, though a flicker of irritation briefly crossed his face.
When the airship began to ascend, Darian began to complain on a whole new level. "What do you mean I have to stand?" he whined. "Are you telling me Pinkrose couldn't afford seats? My father will hear about this when I get back!" he glared daggers at the pilot, who was ignoring him while preparing for the next warp.
Darian then shifted his attention towards the floor, frowning as he tapped his boot
against it. "What is this even made of?" he asked to the three students. "It's so uncouth."
Arden, who was quite tired of the spoiled prince, simply shrugged. "Uh… it's wood."
"Well, I don't like it," the prince huffed. With a hair flick, he turned and began to search the deck for a place to sit.
Quinn, who had been watching everything unfold, approached the two boys from Vespera. "Would you like to hear my observations now?" she offered genuinely.
"No need. I think I got it." Tesric replied, still staring at his unshaken hand. He had seen enough of Darian himself to form a conclusion.
.
.
The four students braced themselves once again as the ship began to light up to warp to a new location. After the flash of lights subsided, they found themselves looking out over a very different land. There were no towering skyscrapers or magical towers this time, just a field of crops stretching out as far as far can be. Huts were scattered across the whole field, serving as small, humble homes of farmers.
Arden, tired of relying on his classmate for answers, glanced over at Quinn and Tesric for answers. "Alright, where are we now?" his voice tinged with frustration.
Quinn who was clearly intrigued by the sight of an almost endless farm, gazed out for a moment before answering the question. "Bramverde, the world's agricultural supplier."
Always eager to speak and share his knowledge, Tesric added, "Every fruit and vegetable in the world is grown here." He looked at the two with a inspirational smile. "You know, I've always thought about how I could help the farmers here with my inventions. Their methods haven't changed in centuries and there's so much room for improvement."
Arden crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow at his words, "Okay… and how exactly are you gonna do that?" His voice was full of skepticism, most especially after hearing Tesric claim that he wanted to replace magic earlier that day.
"Perhaps some sort of mechanism that would automatically water crops in the morning," Tesric began, his eyes lighting up as he shared his idea. "Or maybe even a vehicle that could plow the fields faster and better than any ox could manage," he gestured theatrically to Arden, raising his fist up into the air. "The possibilities are endless!"
Quinn who was intrigued by Tesric's idea and boundless optimism, threw herself into the conversation. She adjusted her glasses and offered her thoughts on the matter. "Quite an interesting idea… but how would you power it? Assuming that mages can't be here enchanting equipment around the clock to keep it running."
Tesric smirked, delighted that someone had finally asked him about a power source. He leaned closer to his two classmates, his smile widening. "Oh, I am so glad you asked that—"
Before he could launch into a detailed rant about his groundbreaking invention of electricity, a voice from across the ship cut him off.
Darian stood in the corner with his arms crossed while bellowing at the pilot, "What an absolute foul stench! Why didn't you put up a barrier if you knew we were going somewhere full of dirt?" The young prince pinched his nose for dramatic effect as he glared at the fields below like they were his mortal enemies that ruined his life.
Tesric sighed, his enthusiasm deflating at the reminder of the spoiled prince on board, while Arden muttered to him and Quinn, "First wood, now dirt, does he just hate the planet or what?"
The airship came to a halt, and hovered ever so slightly above a field of wheat. Bramverde had no airship docks, and required more humble accommodations for their short stay. Soon enough, the next student strutted into view from the field, walking to the ship.
A boy wearing a torn sleeveless shirt, dirty worn-out sandals, and a bamboo hat began climbing the steps to the deck, all while balancing a basket full of apples. He looked like a sturdy fellow, his skin touched by the sun, and despite the less than flattering attire, he still bore a warm smile on his face.
Arden couldn't help but feel enthusiastic. While he truly did enjoy Tesric's determination and optimism, as well as Quinn's analytical mind. It was refreshing to meet someone who, much like himself, didn't come from a world of privilege.
The boy made his way up the deck and immediately approached the group with a polite bow. "Please, sirs and ma'am, take this. I picked them myself just this morning," he said warmly as he reached into the basket, pulling out the apples, and handing them to the trio.
While distributing the fruit, he introduced himself, "My name is Eryth Lumis. Good to meet you." The three responded with their own introductions, touched by his kindness.
However, when Eryth turned to Darian, the mood got a little weird. "Here, for you sir," Eryth said, extending an apple toward him.
Darian scoffed, and with a swift motion, he knocked the apple out of Eryth's hand, sending it tumbling across the floor. "That's Prince Darian to you," he said sharply.
"Like an actual prince?"
"Well… yes."
Eryth's eyes widened, and his whole demeanor shifted. He immediately bowed lower than any of them had thought possible, his forehead touching the floor. "Please forgive me, Your Highness! I didn't mean to offend you." His voice was a mix of awe and panic.
Darian let his lips curl into a satisfied smirk at the farmer boy's display. He reached down and helped Eryth back onto his feet with an air of smugness present. "At least someone here knows how to show proper respect," he said, his gaze flicking toward Tesric, Quinn, and Arden.
Tesric and Arden stood frozen, both bewildered and full of disbelief at what just happened. Meanwhile, Quinn adjusted her glasses and spoke with her analytical bluntness."It appears that Eryth grew up in a servile environment and is deeply dependent on figures of authority."
Tesric scratched his head, looking at her with admiration as he bit into the apple. "You got all that from a bow?"
Quinn shrugged. "It's rather obvious, don't you think?"
Arden rolled his eyes at their conversation, his gaze now lingering on Eryth, who was now dutifully polishing the prince's already immaculate shoes with a piece of cloth. "A shame too," Arden muttered under his breath, "He's a good guy."
Tesric noticed Arden's simmering anger under his expression, before letting things get out of control, he approached and put a calming and comforting hand on his shoulder.
.
.
Cutting through the tense moment was the pilot's booming voice. He held the final dragon scale high in his hand, shouting enthusiastically, "Boys and girls! Time to meet your next and final classmate!"
The warp ritual sparked to life once more, and within moments, they were hovering above a new location.
The five students peered down at the landscape below, which looked like something straight out of a painting—a brutalistic and militaristic fortress city. Thick stone walls encircled the city within, and guards patrolled every corner. Outside the walls, small training camps were scattered around the area, where soldiers could be seen sparring with mages.
Darian recoiled back as if he got hit physically, his face pale with fear and outrage. "You brought us to this land of barbarians and savages!" he exclaimed. He turned to the pilot, pointing a finger at the mustachioed man. "Do you have any idea what you've done? You know our cities are at war!"
Eryth, ever eager to please his perceived betters, leaned in close to the prince, his voice tinged with concern. "Your Highness, please, try to stay calm."
Arden rolled his eyes at the scene in front of him, "Here he goes again," he muttered, assuming it was just another overdramatic reaction from the prince. But after seeing the expressions of genuine concern on the faces of Tesric and Quinn, his sureness quickly evaporated.
Quinn gestured toward the city below. "We're In Ruthgard," she said grimly, her tone shakier than usual. She pointed towards the fortress, it's stone walls bearing a menacing banner. "A city built on strength and combat."
"Also hell-bent on world domination, if the giant fortress didn't make that clear enough." Tesric added, with a weak chuckle as tried to lighten up the mood despite everyone's weariness.
The pilot steered the ship toward the plains around the fortress city rather than the city itself. The ship slowed down until it began to hover just above the ground.
"Let's meet your last classmate, shall we?" the pilot said cheerily, despite the less than cheery mood of the ones onboard.
Through the sandy air and thick fog, a large figure became faintly visible. Even obscured, the silhouette was still imposing and radiated menacing aura with each step.
As the figure came closer and closer, her appearance became clearer. She was a gigantic woman, towering over everyone present in the area, her physique was like that of a brick wall. Clad in practical leather armor, her bulging muscles and scars that could've only come from battle, were visible.
The students instinctively huddled together as a group. Quinn leaned toward Tesric and Arden, "I don't suppose you need my input to figure out her occupation."
Arden gulped, his eyes still fixed on the walking mountain approaching. "Uh-huh," his intimidation laced with mesmerization.
Tesric, who decided not to judge a book by its cover, stepped forward with confidence and extended his hand out in greeting. "My name is Tesric Lestair." His eyes brushed over her chest armor, noticing the name carved into the leather. "And you must be Kaedra. Nice to meet you."
Kaedra scanned him up and down, like he was prey and she was the predator. She grasped his outstretched hand and began to squeeze in a grip that would make a crocodile bite jealous. The moment she squeezed, Tesric crumpled to the ground, yelling in pain as he clutched his crushed hand with the other.
"How disappointing," Kaedra commented, tossing his hand aside as if it was garbage. She turned her attention to the others, who were now in defensive stances.
Kaedra brefly took a look at Quinn and Arden before dismissing them just as quickly. "Frail," she muttered. Her interest was instead on Darian, whose noble posture and clothing made him look like a potential challenge.
Kaedra approached the prince with slow steps and a smirk on her face."Finally, someone with some meat on their bones."
Darian's eyes began to glow an intense blue as his magic formed orbs of energy into his hands. "Don't you dare come any closer!" he warned. Beside him, Eryth prepared his own spell as well to show solidarity.
Kaedra laughed, her smile widening into a wolf-like grin. "Good," she said with approval. "There's some fight in you." She began to circle around the prince,
analyzing his stance and magic flowing through his body.
Satisfied for now, Kaedra backed off, leaving the prince and his assistant still tense but unharmed. Her stance softened as she moved towards the group of Arden and Quinn, who were helping Tesric up. "No hard feelings, eh?" she said with amusement, but also genuineness. "Just wanted to see what all of you were made of."
Tesric winced as he held his hand, but forced a grin through nonetheless. "I somehow doubt that there wasn't a better way for you to do that."
Kaedra laughed deeply, "Maybe," she replied with a grin.
With everyone settling back down, the airship began to lift off from the harsh land of Ruthgard. As the ship climbed above the clouds, the pilot's voice rang out. "Gather around, everyone," he called out. "Your class of seven is now complete."
"My name is Ingram, and I'll be your pilot for the short flight to PinkRose Academy," he said enthusiastically, his upbeat attitude rubbing off onto the class.
"Seven? What do you mean, seven? There's only six of us," Darian questioned, his voice dripping with confusion.
Tesric, Arden, and Quinn looked at each other with knowing glances, remembering that they had completely forgotten to mention that Serena was right there in the shadows
Darian got into a complaining mood once again. "Honestly, I've had enough of this school's incompetence—" However his words were suddenly cut off when he felt a tap on his shoulder.
Whipping his neck around at lightning fast speeds in surprise, his eyes widened as he came face-to-face with a figure that looked like it was almost swallowed by living shadows that clung to it's body. It was Serena!
"Ahhhhhhhhh!"