The sun was beginning to set as Kael, Elara, and Dante finally arrived at the Colégio Hikari, the prestigious educational institution of the Vanguard Kingdom. The tall towers of the school rose against the horizon, reflecting the soft glow of the sunset. The campus, vast and imposing, seemed to hide more secrets than the trio could imagine.
Shortly after their arrival, they were guided to the main auditorium, where a professor with a stern appearance awaited them. His graying hair was tied into a bun, and his mage's cloak was covered with arcane symbols. He introduced himself as Professor Lysander, one of the academy's leading instructors, responsible for general guidance about the various nations and their academies.
— Welcome, new students. — He began, his deep voice echoing through the auditorium. — First of all, it's essential that you know the history of the lands around this kingdom and the academies present in each of them. The world is divided into several kingdoms, each with its peculiarities and strengths. Let's begin.
Lysander raised his hand, and a large magical screen appeared before them, showing a map of the continent.
— To the north, we have the Kingdom of Vanguard, from where this academy originates. This is a kingdom with great military tradition and arcane magic. The Royal Academy of Vanguard is known for training the greatest warriors and mages on the continent. The central city is surrounded by vast forests and mountains to the north. The region to the south, with its fertile plains, offers an uncommon wealth of natural resources.
Kael watched attentively, feeling the weight of the professor's words. He knew his journey was just beginning, and understanding the other kingdoms would be crucial for what lay ahead.
Lysander continued, pointing to the east.
— The Kingdom of Altheria is a military empire. Its capital, an imposing city, is surrounded by vast steppes and a massive wall that protects it. The Imperial Academy of Altheria is located in the capital and is one of the most rigorous in terms of physical and strategic training. This kingdom is driven by a philosophy of pure strength and military domination.
Elara murmured to herself, as if absorbing the information with a certain unease. She had always felt more connected to the magical side of the world, and the Altherian empire seemed to contrast greatly with that.
The professor, noticing their interest, didn't waste time and moved on to the next kingdom.
— To the west, we have the Kingdom of Eldorath, a kingdom essentially magical and ruled by the elven royalty. This kingdom is covered by vast enchanted forests and mystical mountains. The Academy of Eldorath is located in the heart of one of these forests, in the treetops, where students learn the arts of magic in its purest form. This is a place where nature and magic intertwine, and arcane abilities are taught instinctively.
— To the south, we have the Kingdom of Lumeris, a realm of commerce and diplomacy, known for its large port cities and vast fields. The Academy of Lumeris is one of the best in training diplomats, strategists, and those who seek to excel in political matters. This region is the link between the kingdoms, being crucial for intercontinental trade.
Lysander looked at Kael and his friends, perhaps realizing that the explanation about diplomatic arts was not the most exciting for them.
— Next, we have the Kingdom of Xantor, located in the very center of the continent. This is an underground kingdom, ruled by dwarves, full of caves, mines, and fortresses. The Academy of Xantor is famous for teaching the art of mining, fortress engineering, and magic centered on crystals and minerals. It's a place where adaptation to darkness and the underground is essential. The closest city to the academy is located in the heart of a large mine, making it both a dangerous and fascinating place.
Elara made a curious expression upon hearing about crystal magic. She had a growing fascination for this type of magic, especially when she remembered the crystal Kael carried with him.
Lysander, without losing his pace, moved on to his last description.
— Finally, we have the Drak'zar Mountains, a desolate territory in the northeast, where dragons make their homes. This mountain range is surrounded by relentless storms and is one of the hardest regions to reach. Here, there is no formal academy, but the dragons, in their great wisdom, teach some the secrets of their strength and magic. A mysterious and dangerous place, where survival is a constant test.
Kael stared fixedly at the image of the mountain on the map. He had always had a curious relationship with dragons, although he had never ventured into such unexplored lands. The idea of facing such mysterious creatures felt both challenging and enticing.
— And lastly, we have the Underworld, a vast underground network that lies beneath all the kingdoms. It is not accessible by normal means, but only by those who possess the power of demonic magic. The entrance to this realm is hidden, but many say that demons and other powerful creatures reside there, along with forgotten secrets that could change the course of history. For those who venture into its domains, the cost is high, and few return.
The atmosphere became tense for a moment, and Kael felt a chill run down his spine upon hearing about the Underworld. He, who had experienced demonic magic firsthand, knew this place was more real and dangerous than the professor let on.
Lysander took a step back, closing the magical map with a gesture. He looked directly at the students, as if checking their reactions.
— Each kingdom has its strengths and weaknesses, but all are part of a greater balance. And you, my dear students, will now be part of this balance. Your path may lead you to any of these kingdoms or beyond. But remember: knowledge is a weapon, and every choice you make in your training here will reflect the future of all.
— And next week, the academy of the Altherian Empire will come, and we will hold a competition. Their class will face yours. Be prepared.
Dante grew excited at the thought of a battle, while Elara and Kael remained stoic, not expressing any emotions.