The golden morning sun cast its warm glow upon the vast lands of the Ruins Kingdom as Ruby clutched the invitation letter to her chest, her crimson eyes shimmering with uncontainable excitement. The elegant parchment bore the royal insignia of Henwards Magic Academy, the most prestigious magic institution in the world. She had been selected. Her journey to greatness was about to begin.
The maids and her friends gathered around, their faces brimming with joy. One of the maids, her gentle voice laced with nostalgia, murmured, "If Master David were here, he would be so proud of you, young mistress."
Ruby's eyes softened at the mention of her master. "I will tell him later... but in four days, I must depart for Henwards Academy. The entrance ceremony is happening soon."
The head maid, understanding the importance of this moment, swiftly sent an eagle messenger to David's trusted servant—the one now reigning as the King of the Ruins Kingdom. The message was clear: "Send a luxurious carriage and the finest attire. Our master's student is leaving for Henwards Academy."
The response was almost immediate. Within hours, a grand horse-drawn carriage, adorned in the emblem of the Ruins Kingdom, arrived. Alongside it came a trunk filled with elegant dresses fit for a noble. Ruby gasped at the sight, her heart pounding in awe. "How... How did the King send me this? Why?"
The maid chuckled softly. "The King is a subordinate of Master David. He would never let his master's beloved student travel in anything less than the best."
Tears welled in Ruby's eyes, but she quickly wiped them away and smiled. "Please send a message back... tell him, 'Thank you.'"
As she slipped into a dress of deep rose, its embroidery shimmering under the sunlight, she felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Her journey was not just her own. It was a path paved by the efforts of those who believed in her.
The day of departure arrived. The maids and her childhood friends stood by, their eyes glistening with pride and sadness. "Take care, Ruby!" they called, waving as the carriage began to move. She leaned out the window, her red hair dancing in the wind, tears trailing down her cheeks. "Goodbye! I'll make you all proud!"
As the carriage moved past the fields, birds soared into the sky, the sun casting long golden rays over the land. Her heart swelled. A new chapter in her life had begun.
One day later, Ruby arrived at Henwards Kingdom. The towering gates of Henwards Magic Academy loomed ahead, an architectural marvel of stone and magic-infused metals. Hundreds of students, both nobles and commoners, had gathered for the entrance ceremony. The academy was divided into two prestigious divisions: the Knight Academy and the Magic Academy.
Her luxurious carriage came to a halt. The emblem of the Ruins Kingdom on its exterior immediately drew attention. As the door opened, Ruby stepped out, her noble-like dress flowing gracefully around her. Gasps filled the air. Whispers spread like wildfire.
"Who is she?"
"A noble? No… she doesn't look like one of the usual noble houses."
"Look at her eyes! They burn like rubies!"
Ignoring the murmurs, Ruby held her head high and made her way toward the grand entrance of the Magic Academy. She was here for one reason—to become stronger.
Inside the grand ceremonial hall, a sea of students gathered, their voices buzzing with excitement and nervousness. At the front stood a man who radiated immense power. His long white beard cascaded down his chest, his eyes holding a wisdom that had seen centuries pass. He wore an elegant mage's robe, and atop his head sat a grand hat, marking his status.
Leon, the Archmage. A 9th Circle Magician. One of the strongest magic users in the world.
His voice boomed through the hall. "Welcome, my dear students, to Henwards Magic Academy! This institution stands as the pinnacle of magical knowledge and mastery. Some of you come from noble bloodlines, some from humble backgrounds, but within these walls, you are all equals. The path of magic does not favor birth—it favors those with determination, intelligence, and an unyielding heart."
A wave of awe swept through the students.
"Today, we will begin the Entrance Ceremony with the Ranking Assessment. Each of you will place your hands upon the Magic Orb, which will determine your potential as a mage. Your ranks will be assigned from A to E—A being the strongest, E being the weakest. Do not be discouraged by your rank, for it is merely the starting point of your journey! Now, let us begin."
One by one, students approached the enormous glowing Magic Orb. The teachers called out their ranks as the orb flickered with each touch.
"B Rank!"
"C Rank!"
"A Rank!" A noble's son beamed with pride.
"D Rank."
"E Rank…"
And then, it was Ruby's turn.
She stepped forward, her hands trembling slightly. Taking a deep breath, she placed her palm against the orb. The moment her skin met its surface, the entire hall was bathed in an explosive golden light.
Gasps echoed through the chamber. Teachers stood up in shock. Leon's eyes widened, a flicker of something unreadable crossing his face.
The magic orb pulsed violently, its light intensifying to an almost blinding degree. The markings etched onto the orb glowed in intricate patterns never seen before. And then, it happened.
"A Rank!" a teacher announced.
But Leon's sharp eyes caught something others missed.
"No…" he muttered, stepping forward, his voice barely above a whisper. "This… this is beyond A Rank. This girl… she possesses potential that surpasses our understanding. A new talent… one that may change the world."
Ruby, unaware of Leon's silent realization, clenched her fists in excitement. "I did it! A Rank! I can do this!"
The rest of the ranking assessments continued, but Leon's mind was elsewhere. He had seen countless prodigies, but this girl… there was something different about her. Something beyond even his comprehension.
Once the rankings were complete, Leon stood once more. "Well done, my students. Some of you have obtained high ranks, while others may feel disappointment. But remember this: a mage is not defined by their starting rank. Your growth, your perseverance, and your heart will determine your true strength. In this academy, you will learn, fail, rise again, and carve your own destiny."
A hush fell over the hall. His words ignited something within them.
"Tomorrow, your journey truly begins. Your classes will start, your uniforms will be provided, and your dormitories assigned. Prepare yourselves—for the path ahead will not be easy."
As the ceremony ended, Ruby stood amidst the sea of students, her heart pounding in her chest. The path ahead was long, but she was ready. She would grow stronger, she would carve her own fate.
Her story had only just begun.
(End of Chapter)