[A/N: From now on, this novel will no longer be published here. If you want to continue reading, I will post the link to the new platform as soon as possible.]
Chapter 33: A Generic Letter
The assembly ended with the swift precision typical of Arcanis Academy. As the Headmaster's final words faded, he raised a hand, commanding the attention of the students one last time.
"Before you leave," Headmaster Aldric Vael's voice boomed across the Grand Hall, silencing the crowd, "remember, classes begin tomorrow. Be prepared. Your schedules will be distributed shortly, and your first lessons will test the resolve that each of you has fought for to be here. There will be no handholding—only the strong will thrive."
A pause followed, the weight of his words settling over the students.
"So rest up tonight, for tomorrow marks the start of your true journey," he concluded, his gaze sweeping across the crowd. "And know this—your future begins now."
With that, the Headmaster stepped back, and the students, now fully aware of the challenges ahead, began to file out of the Grand Hall in a disciplined manner. The sound of their footsteps echoed off the marble floors. Balthazar stood at the back of the crowd, his eyes still lingering on the students of importance—the future players in the game he was now determined to enter.
There was something almost ritualistic about how they moved, each student following their designated path without hesitation. Even the most rebellious of them were careful not to cross invisible lines. After all, in a place like this, every gesture, every move could either elevate or destroy you.
Victoria was long gone, swallowed by the sea of students. He couldn't care less. Her cold indifference only intrigued him more. But there were others, others who had yet to make their mark on him.
The hallways of Arcanis Academy were vast and imposing, each corridor lined with dark stone walls adorned with ancient tapestries that told the tales of the academy's legendary students. The students walked in clusters, some talking excitedly about the future, others already consumed by the weight of their expectations.
Balthazar, however, took his time, walking at his own pace, his hands casually resting behind his back. He couldn't help but be aware of how the academy's atmosphere felt more oppressive than before. It wasn't just the grandeur of the buildings or the lofty ideals of the institution; it was the sheer pressure that radiated from every corner, every stone. This wasn't a place where students were coddled—this was a forge.
He roamed the halls for a while, observing the dynamics between the different groups. Some students exchanged looks of silent rivalry, while others seemed to form alliances before the year even truly began. There were whispers about upcoming competitions, trials, and duels. The politics of Arcanis Academy had already begun, and Balthazar was keen to get a better understanding of it.
Eventually, the time for wandering came to an end, and Balthazar followed the signs leading to the second-year dormitories. The room he had been allocated was simple, nothing like the lavish quarters of the first years or the prestigious student council members. It was a small room, nestled at the far end of the corridor, with a single window looking out over the academy grounds.
As he entered the room, Balthazar couldn't help but smile at the simplicity of it. A small bed, a wooden desk, and a wardrobe filled with standard academy attire. Nothing extravagant, nothing that suggested privilege. It was the perfect place for someone like him—no eyes watching, no expectations to live up to.
"This will do," Balthazar muttered to himself as he closed the door behind him. The room felt almost like a sanctuary—no more crowds, no more stares, just solitude.
He walked over to the desk and noticed a small stack of papers awaiting him. Official academy documents. Most of it was standard stuff—rules, regulations, and guidelines for the upcoming year. But then, something caught his attention. A letter, with the academy's insignia stamped onto the top.
Balthazar raised an eyebrow as he opened the envelope. The letter was a carefully typed message, clearly meant to be distributed to every student. He read aloud to himself, not bothering to hide the faint sarcasm in his voice as he recognized the tone.
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"Dear Student,
Welcome to another year at Arcanis Academy. We are thrilled to have you as part of this esteemed institution, and we commend your dedication and hard work that have led you to this point. We know that you will continue to strive for greatness, facing the challenges ahead with determination and perseverance.
Remember, your future is shaped by the actions you take, and it is here at Arcanis where you will grow and refine your abilities. We are proud to have you as a part of this academy's legacy.
May this year be one of your most successful yet.
With appreciation,
Headmaster Aldric Vael"
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Balthazar folded the letter, his lips curling into a smile. "A generic welcome letter. Of course."
He could almost picture how many copies of this exact letter had been handed out to each student over the years. It was clear the Headmaster wanted to make everyone feel valued, a small gesture that, in truth, probably meant very little in the grand scheme of things. But to the students, it was a reminder of the academy's lofty promises—the sense that they were special, chosen to be molded into the elite.
For Balthazar, it was just another form of manipulation, a way to keep everyone feeling proud, feeling like they were progressing even when they were only moving in circles.
He tossed the letter onto the desk with a nonchalant shrug and sat down on the bed.
"This year's going to be interesting," he muttered to himself.