The great gates of the Mana Bureau Academy swung open, and the first-year students—Alex, Kael, Riven, and dozens of others—stepped into the vast inner courtyard. The hum of mana was stronger here, flowing like a gentle current through the marble walkways, brushing against students' senses and promising power, challenge, and opportunity.
A bell rang, and the students assembled on the main platform, the Academy Principal stepping forward. Tall and imposing, with robes embroidered in gold and silver threads that shimmered with latent mana, he commanded attention effortlessly.
"Welcome, freshmen," he began, his voice steady and measured. "You are now part of the Mana Bureau Academy, founded over three centuries ago by Archmage Lyrion, who envisioned a place where the next generation could master the mana within themselves and serve the kingdoms wisely. Here, knowledge and discipline are paramount. Your time here will test your skills, your character, and your ability to work with others."
He gestured to the sprawling complex around them. "The Academy is divided into domes, each housing students according to gender, rank, and preference. Domes may be shared between two or three students—or allocated individually if resources allow. Commoners with exceptional mana have been granted scholarships, and most of them will be placed in shared domes."
He paused, letting the information sink in. "Rules are clear: respect your instructors, respect your peers, and abide by the Academy's regulations. Use your time wisely, for mana mastery waits for no one."
After the orientation, a series of attendants guided the students to their respective domes. Alex, Kael, and Riven moved together, scanning the pathways, noting the subtle carvings and symbols infused with protective and educational enchantments.
Alex quickly found a single-person dome available to him near the center of the male dormitory section. The room was modest but elegant, with a high ceiling, large windows letting in sunlight, and a small training area.
Riven selected a similar dome directly adjacent to Alex's, close enough that they could meet easily but still have privacy. Kael chose one nearby as well, creating a tight cluster that would allow them to coordinate training and study sessions efficiently.
In the hallways, whispers followed them. Upperclassmen moved with confidence, their presence commanding respect. A few were already well-known for their skill, popularity, and influence in the Academy. Their sharp eyes scanned the newcomers, measuring their potential—noble lineage, mana strength, and demeanor all weighed in silence.
By evening, the first-year students had settled into their chosen domes. Alex rested against the back of his chair, letting out a soft breath, feeling the subtle pulse of mana in the walls, in the furniture, and even in the air around him. Riven's door, just a few paces away, radiated a similar energy, a quiet assurance that his companion was nearby. Kael, ever the observant one, had already begun organizing his study space, keen to understand both the physical and magical layout of his dome.
Outside, the Academy glimmered in the soft sunset, a palace of learning, strategy, and mana mastery. Friendships would form, rivalries would ignite, and each student would begin carving their place in this prestigious world.