It's hard to believe it's already been a year since I started attending this academy. Honestly, I'm surprised I've reached the age of six so quickly. Things have been going well enough, though the constant glares and cold shoulders from others remind me of my status—a lower noble. It's annoying, but what can I do about it?
The morning sun filters through the thin fabric of my curtains, its golden rays painting patterns across the floor of my dormitory room. I rise, stretching away the remnants of sleep, and quickly dress in the plain uniform that marks me as a student here. With my bag slung over my shoulder, I step out into the corridor, its stone walls echoing faint footsteps of others making their way to class.
The walk to the classroom is routine now, the halls familiar yet always slightly imposing with their towering ceilings and ornate designs. As I push open the heavy wooden door and step inside, I feel the weight of stares settle on me like a cloak. A few students glance my way, their expressions unreadable yet all too familiar. It's because I'm young—and a lower noble, I remind myself with a sigh. Ignoring them, I head to my usual spot at the back of the room, a corner that grants me both solitude and a good view of everything.
The room fills with chatter, voices buzzing like a swarm of bees, overlapping with bursts of laughter and the occasional groan of a chair scraping the floor. For the next ten minutes, the atmosphere is lively, almost chaotic, until the door creaks open and the teacher strides in.
"Alright, everyone. Settle down. Quiet, please," he says, his voice firm yet not unkind. The room instantly falls into silence, a ripple of discipline sweeping through the students. He sets down a stack of papers on the desk at the front, adjusts his glasses, and looks out at us. "Today's lesson is about a topic I'm sure many of you will find… intriguing." His tone carries a hint of excitement, but there's something else in it—hesitation? "We'll be discussing the three noble houses, the Holy Church, and the Seven Divine Children." A flicker of something crosses his face—anger, or perhaps frustration—before he quickly looks away. He mutters under his breath, "… who never lived to see the age of…" but cuts himself off abruptly. Clearing his throat, he straightens and fixes his gaze back on us, his expression now neutral. "Right, then. Let's get started on today's lesson," he says briskly, his voice steady once more. The tension lingers in the air like an unanswered question, but no one dares to ask it.
The teacher clears his throat, smoothing out a crumpled piece of parchment in his hand. His voice falters slightly as he begins, "The Three Noble Houses…" His eyes flicker over the room, a shadow of unease crossing his face before he looks back down at the paper.
"First, we have the House of Umbraex," he says, his tone stiff. "This is the House of Murder and Death, shrouded in darkness and feared by many. Members of this house are infamous for their cold, calculated nature—assassins, merciless warriors, and brutal enforcers. Their motto, 'Through shadow, we reign,' speaks to their reliance on fear and death, both as tools and weapons. If you ever encounter someone from Umbraex," he gulps audibly, "be cautious. They are as lethal as the shadows they wield." The teacher shifts uncomfortably, his fingers tightening around the edges of the parchment. His eyes scan downward, and his voice softens, as if hesitant to continue.
"Next is the House of Corvalis, the Crown Bearers of Heavy Fate. Once contenders for the throne, they fell just short of becoming the royal family, though their legacy remains intertwined with the continent's history. They carry the weight of duty on their shoulders, serving as guardians of wisdom and stability for the capital and beyond. Their motto, 'Duty is our burden, legacy our crown,' reflects their stoic resolve and unyielding sense of responsibility." A faint smile flickers across his face, but it vanishes as quickly as it came. He sighs, his gaze dropping further down the page.
"And finally, there's the House of Lorythar, known as the Mad Visionaries. This house is composed of unorthodox thinkers, scientists, and inventors whose creations often teeter on the edge of brilliance and madness. Their motto, 'Through madness, we create,' captures their chaotic spirit. Though their methods are frowned upon by the larger scientific community, their inventions have reshaped history in ways no one could have anticipated." The teacher pauses, the weight of his words hanging heavily in the air. After a moment, he straightens, his voice growing steadier as he continues. "Now, let's talk about the leaders of these houses and their abilities." His expression tightens as he reads the next section.
"First, Duchess Kalyth Umbraex," he begins. "She commands shadow manipulation, an ability that allows her to conjure shadowy constructs and cloak herself in darkness, rendering her nearly invisible. Her second ability, Eclipse Aura, can disrupt sound and sight in her vicinity while enhancing her allies. And lastly, there's Soul Mark—by touching someone, she can track them over vast distances, an ability that ensures no target can escape her grasp." He exhales sharply, as though the mere thought of her abilities unnerves him.
"Next is Lady Valeria Corvalis," he continues, his voice softening with a hint of admiration. "Her abilities are a testament to her unwavering strength. Aegis of Light creates a radiant shield, capable of deflecting both physical and magical attacks. The shield grows stronger in tandem with her emotions. Crownfire is her second ability—a blazing flame that can envelop her sword or herself, burning through anything in its path. Finally, there's Sanctified Sacrifice, a power that channels her very life force into a devastating light attack or protective barrier. It's a double-edged sword, capable of turning the tide of war but at great personal cost." The teacher pauses, taking a deep breath before moving on to the final name.
"And lastly, Lady Elyndra Lorythar," he says, his voice tinged with unease. "Her abilities are… volatile, to say the least. Elemental Flux grants her control over all four elements, though the power flows chaotically, making it as dangerous to her allies as it is to her enemies. Then there's Fractured Reality, a terrifying ability that allows her to bend the fabric of space, time, and reality itself, creating impossible landscapes or assisting her allies in ways that defy comprehension. Lastly, Mad Inspiration enables her to amplify another's abilities drastically—but at a cost. Those affected are consumed by madness, often turning against friend and foe alike." He places the paper down, his hands trembling slightly. "These are no ordinary individuals," he murmurs, almost to himself. "To cross paths with them is to face forces that challenge the very nature of reality."
The teacher visibly shudders, as though a chill has passed through him. He hesitates, his hand lingering over a second piece of parchment. After a moment, he picks it up, his eyes scanning the contents."Next," he begins, his voice softer, almost reverent, "is the Holy Church, the Sanctuary of the Eternal Flame, and the Seven Divine Beings." He glances up briefly, his gaze distant, as though trying to conjure an image of what he is about to describe. "The Divine Beings—sometimes called the Divine Children—are eternal entities, each embodying a sacred virtue. They are not just symbols but living manifestations of the gods' will, their powers reflecting the very essence of their divine roles." The room seems to grow quieter, the weight of his words settling heavily over the students as he continues.
"First, there is Ardrel, the Radiant Shield," he says, his tone steadying. "The embodiment of Protection. Ardrel's power lies in the creation of impenetrable barriers of light, shields that defend the faithful and banish even the most insidious darkness. To be in Ardrel's presence is to know safety and peace, even in the direst of circumstances."
He adjusts his glasses and moves on, his voice carrying a note of warmth. "Next is Serienne, the Voice of Grace, who represents Compassion. Serienne's words can mend broken hearts and inspire hope in those who have lost their way. It's said their voice alone can heal wounds, calm raging storms, and bring solace to the most tormented of souls."
The teacher's expression hardens slightly as he reaches the next name. "Veloras, the Blade of Judgment," he intones, "is the embodiment of Justice. Wielding a divine sword that strikes down corruption and evil, Veloras brings order where chaos reigns. Their presence compels truth to rise to the surface, unraveling lies and deceit with unrelenting clarity."
There's a flicker of light in his eyes as he speaks the next name. "Aelira, the Eternal Flame, embodies Purity. They channel holy fire to cleanse impurity and protect places deemed sacred. Aelira is a beacon of hope, a living flame that lights the way even in the deepest darkness. Their radiance is said to be both comforting and blinding, a testament to their divine nature." The teacher's tone shifts again, becoming almost reverent. "Thaldrin, the Keeper of Wisdom, represents Knowledge. This being possesses omniscient insight, revealing hidden truths and granting clarity to those who seek it. It's said that a single touch from Thaldrin can unlock the full potential of a mortal mind, a gift that has shaped the course of history more than once."
He pauses, as if weighing his words carefully before proceeding. "Calessyn, the Heart of Valor, embodies Courage. Their mere presence inspires unwavering bravery, turning fear into strength and empowering warriors to face overwhelming odds. Calessyn stands as a symbol of resilience, ensuring that the righteous never falter in their resolve." Finally, his voice drops, almost to a whisper, as he names the last of the Divine Beings. "Eryndis, the Weaver of Fate, is the embodiment of Destiny. They can glimpse the threads of fate and subtly guide them, ensuring that the faithful remain on the gods' intended path. Their visions, though often cryptic, are said to illuminate the future without ever directly interfering, leaving room for mortal choice." The teacher lowers the parchment, his hands trembling slightly as he looks over the class. "These eternal beings serve not just as guardians but as guides to the Holy Church and its followers. Their ageless forms are a constant reminder of the divine's unwavering presence in our world."
He pauses, the room steeped in silence. The weight of the Divine Beings' virtues and powers lingers heavily, leaving an almost sacred stillness in the air. This version integrates all the elements and brings a vivid, almost reverent tone to the descriptions, making them feel both powerful and otherworldly.
The lesson droned on, and though the subject was fascinating, the weight of the day's intensity began to settle on the class. An hour passed, marked only by the chiming of the magic bell. Its ethereal sound resonated through the room, signaling the end of the session.Chairs scraped against the stone floor as students hurriedly packed their belongings, the usual rush to leave filling the air.I lingered, taking my time to gather my things. I preferred to leave after the others, avoiding the jostling crowds that never seemed to notice me-or worse, deliberately did. Just as I stood to leave, I felt a sudden shove from behind."Hey!" I exclaimed, spinning around.
Three boys stood there, their smug expressions twisting into sneers. The tallest among them stepped closer, his voice dripping with disdain. "Shut up, you little twerp." I froze, a mix of shock and anger rising in my chest. "What? I didn't do anything to you!"My words only seemed to amuse them.
Another shove came, harder this time, forcing me back against the cold stone wall. The ringleader sneered, leaning in close. "Yes, you did, lower noble. Just existing is enough. You're worse than us-and younger!"Before I could respond, a sharp pain exploded in my stomach.
One of them had punched me.
"Ow! Stop!" | cried out, doubling over in pain, but they weren't finished. Laughter filled the air as kicks landed against my ribs, my legs, my arms as I tried to shield myself. Their boots struck with cruel precision, each blow driving tears to my eyes. I curled up on the floor, the cold stone pressing against my cheek as I whimpered. The edges of their taunts blurred together, drowned out by the sound of my own gasping breaths.Then I heard it-footsteps. Quick, determined, and getting closer.I forced myself to look up, tears blurring my vision. A girl was rushing toward us, her long hair trailing behind her like a banner. She didn't hesitate. She grabbed one of the boys by the collar and yanked him back with surprising strength.
"Get off him!" she shouted, her voice fierce and commanding. The sudden interruption stunned the bullies, and she took advantage of their hesitation, shoving one of then out the way hard enough that he stumbled to the ground. Before they could recover, flames ignited in her palms, casting flickering light across her determined face. "If you come closer," she warned, her voice steady and full of conviction, "I'll blast you with fire!"
The glow of her magic reflected in their wide eyes, and for a moment, none of them moved. Then, with a muttered curse, the ringleader gestured for the others to follow, and they bolted, their footsteps echoing down the hall. Breathing heavily, the girl turned to me, her fiery hands dimming but her expression still fierce. "Are you okay?" she asked, kneeling down beside me. I nodded weakly, though my body still ached from the assault. For the first time that day, I felt something close to relief.
She extends her hand toward me, her sapphire-blue eyes shining with warmth and reassurance. I hesitate for a moment, still reeling from the humiliation, but then reach out and grasp her hand. Her grip is firm yet gentle as she pulls me to my feet. "T-thank you…" I mumble, my voice dripping with self-pity. Her lips curl into a kind smile, and she tilts her head playfully. "It's fine, don't worry! I always help people in need. So, what's your name?" I lift my gaze from the ground, finally meeting her eyes. There's something calming about her presence that soothes my frayed nerves. "It's… um, Noctis Grevant. And you are?" I manage to ask, my voice still shaky. She places her hands on her hips, her smile widening with pride. "I'm Seraphina Delta, or Sera for short!"
Now that I have a moment to take her in, I notice the golden sheen of her hair, shimmering in the sunlight like liquid gold. It's the same shade as mine, though hers falls in soft waves that frame her petite, youthful face. Her sapphire-blue eyes are striking, almost glowing with life and kindness. Despite her small frame, there's an unmistakable confidence in her stance that made it clear how she managed to scare off those bullies so easily. "Well, Noctis, it was nice to meet you. I think we should be friends," she declares, her voice bright and cheerful. I nod so quickly it's almost frantic. "Yes, please! I really do need friends here!"
She chuckles softly, a light and melodic sound that somehow makes me feel both embarrassed and comforted. "Well, I'm eight years old, by the way, and I'm guessing you're six, right? I heard a rumor about a kid who joined the academy super young," she teases, reaching out to ruffle my hair.
Her hand lingers briefly, and I feel my face heat up in embarrassment. Her touch is soft, her skin clear and glowing with a youthful vibrance that seems almost otherworldly. For a moment, I lose myself in the strange comfort of her presence. But then, like a flash of lightning, reality strikes me. "Oh no!" I exclaim suddenly, panic flaring in my chest.
Sera pulls her hand back, tilting her head curiously. "What is it, Noctis?" I glance around, my heart racing. "Next class! I'm going to be late!" Her eyes widen for a moment before she nods, a smile tugging at her lips. "Well, I'll see you after school, yeah?"
"Yeah!" I confirm quickly, already turning to sprint off. I can hear her soft laughter as I dash down the hallway, and despite my panic, I can't help but smile. After school, Sera and I meet up near the academy's garden, a quiet spot away from the bustling students. The golden sunlight filters through the trees, casting playful shadows on the ground. We talk and laugh as we always do, our voices mingling with the gentle rustling of leaves. Sera, brimming with excitement, suddenly steps back and clasps her hands together.
"Watch this, Noctis!" she exclaims, her sapphire-blue eyes sparkling with anticipation. She raises her small hands, and with a flick of her fingers, a tiny flame springs to life, dancing just above her palm. The fire shifts and twists as though alive, its warm glow reflecting in her eyes. Then, with another wave of her hand, the flame disappears, replaced by a sphere of shimmering water that floats gracefully above her palm. "Whoa…" I breathe, awestruck. She giggles at my reaction and lets the water dissolve into droplets, scattering them like dew. "Impressed? I've been practicing!" I nod eagerly. "You're amazing, Sera!" We spend the rest of the afternoon playing and laughing, her magic adding an extra spark to our fun. Over the next few weeks, Sera and I grow inseparable. We share stories, practice spells, and support each other in ways I never expected. She becomes my first real friend, and I cherish every moment we spend together.
One late afternoon, as we walk down a quiet dirt path near the outskirts of the academy, Sera suddenly stops and groans dramatically.
"Noctissss!" she whines, dragging out my name. "Give me a piggyback ride! My legs are tiredddd!" I turn to look at her, my brows raised in mock exasperation. Her mischievous grin tells me she already knows I'm going to say yes. "Fine," I sigh, pretending to be reluctant. "Just this once, alright?" I stop walking and kneel slightly, allowing her to climb onto my back. She hops on with surprising ease, her small arms wrapping around my shoulders and her legs dangling against my sides. I adjust my grip to make sure she's secure, feeling the warmth of her presence against my back. "You're a bit clingy today," I tease, chuckling softly. She doesn't reply right away. Instead, she turns her head away slightly, her golden hair brushing against my cheek. In a quiet, almost shy voice, she mumbles, "I just want to be close to you… because I like you…" I pause, my steps faltering. "What was that, Sera?" I ask nervously, unsure if I heard her correctly.
Her face flushes a deep red, and she quickly smacks the back of my head with a small huff. "Just keep walking!" she snaps, though her tone is more embarrassed than angry.
Still confused, I shake my head and continue walking. Her arms tighten slightly around me, and after a moment of silence, she speaks again. "Noctis," she says softly, her voice carrying an unusual seriousness, "can you pinky promise me something?" I glance over my shoulder at her, curious. "What is it?"
She meets my gaze, her sapphire-blue eyes filled with an emotion I can't quite place. "Pinky promise me we'll always be together… forever." For a moment, I'm taken aback by her sincerity. But then I smile, feeling a warmth in my chest. "Of course I can, Sera," I reply confidently. I extend my pinky toward her, and she hooks hers around mine, sealing the promise. "Thank you," she whispers, resting her head gently on my shoulder. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I glance back at her. "I'm guessing I should carry you home?" I ask with a smile. Sera nods sleepily, her head still resting on my shoulder. I shift her weight slightly and start walking toward her dorm, the sound of our laughter earlier still echoing in my mind as the day fades into night.
After I drop Sera off at her dorm, I begin the quiet walk back to my own. The cool night air brushes against my face, and I tilt my head up toward the vast, star-studded sky. The two moons hang high above, their soft, silvery light casting a gentle glow over the academy grounds. Each step I take crunches lightly against the gravel path, accompanied by the distant chirps of crickets and the occasional hoot of an owl. I sigh, the sound breaking the serene silence. My breath fogs faintly in the chilly air, and I shove my hands into my pockets as I keep walking, my mind spinning. The events of the day replay endlessly, especially Sera's words from earlier. Did she really mean it? The thought feels heavy yet warm, lingering at the edge of my consciousness. When I finally reach my dorm, the familiar creak of the wooden door greets me. The room is dim, illuminated only by the moonlight streaming through the small window. I kick off my shoes, the soft thud echoing slightly in the quiet space, and peel off my clothes with an exhausted sluggishness. The cool sheets of my bed feel inviting as I slide under them, pulling the blanket up to my chin. I stare at the ceiling for a moment, my thoughts still restless. Sera's face flashes in my mind, her words echoing faintly. "Because I like you…" I can't tell if I heard her right or if my mind is playing tricks on me, but the memory keeps looping, pulling at my chest in a way I don't understand. With a deep exhale, I close my eyes and let sleep take over, though my thoughts remain tangled.
Suddenly, I'm standing. The sensation of soft grass beneath my feet feels vivid, the blades cool and damp from a recent rain. I look around, finding myself in a vast, endless plain bathed in golden sunlight. The sky above is a brilliant blue, dotted with puffy white clouds lazily drifting by. A gentle breeze rustles through the grass, carrying with it a faint, soothing melody that seems to come from nowhere and everywhere all at once. I take a step forward, the landscape serene yet unfamiliar. Where am I? The thought lingers as I glance around, the dreamscape both calming and eerily empty. The sensation feels so real, yet I know it's not. Still, I walk forward, drawn by something unseen as the dream pulls me deeper into its embrace.