The carriage wheels clattered over the cobblestone drive, carrying Alex, Kael, and Riven toward the towering gates of the Mana Bureau Academy. From afar, the sprawling complex shimmered under the morning sun—marble spires, ivy-clad walls, and courtyards meticulously laid with patterned stone. A soft hum of latent mana seemed to drift through the air, subtle but omnipresent, hinting at the extraordinary power that coursed within the Academy walls.
Flashbacks lingered in Alex's mind—the Duke of Rosetta's firm but encouraging words, reminding him to observe carefully, learn diligently, and trust in his allies; Riven recalling his mother's gentle guidance on navigating expectations as the son of a princess and a Duke; and Kael remembering the quiet but determined advice of his father, who urged him to harness his Air mana and never let society's judgment weaken his resolve.
Now, standing before the great archway, the students looked tiny against the grand entrance. The Academy's courtyard bustled with movement: freshmen in crisp tunics of muted colors, sleeves neatly buttoned, carrying their training daggers and swords; upperclassmen in deeper shades, their uniforms accented with subtle embroidery denoting rank and accomplishments. A handful of commoners, allowed in only because of exceptional mana affinity, shifted nervously among the nobles, their plain attire contrasting sharply with the fine fabrics around them.
Alex adjusted his black tunic and fitted trousers, ensuring his man bun was secure and his boots polished. Practical, commanding, yet not ostentatious—he would not attract unnecessary attention but would be prepared for any test or sparring match. Kael's attire was similarly practical, a muted blue tunic complementing his Air mana affinity, while Riven's deep purple ensemble carried subtle hints of his noble status, his black-and-silver hair glinting in the sunlight.
Whispers floated through the air as they passed: "The young Lord of Rosetta," "Riven of Havana," "Kael, the Duke of Skyrim's son." Eyes lingered on them, measuring skill, status, and potential alliances. Among the crowd, familiar figures emerged—noble children of high-ranking officers, princesses' wards, and even the Crown Prince himself, standing with a carefully neutral expression that suggested both curiosity and subtle calculation.
"The Academy is larger than I imagined," Alex murmured, scanning the courtyard. "Every detail… even the air feels different here."
"It's because of the mana flowing through the grounds," Riven said, gesturing lightly. "Everything here—walls, paths, even the fountains—is infused to aid training and control. It's rigorous, but… effective."
Kael nodded, gripping his sword sheath. "And the hierarchy is clear. Freshmen, upperclassmen… even the commoners with strong mana. Everyone has to earn their place."
Alex's lips curved into a small smile. "Then let's make sure we earn ours."
As the gates opened, the three stepped forward, the Academy's hum of power greeting them, a world of knowledge and challenge waiting beyond. Alliances would form, rivalries would ignite, and the first day at the Mana Bureau Academy promised to be unforgettable.
Author's Note
"Next chapter: The first day of classes begins—mana control, weapons training, and challenges that test more than skill."