Meeting with the Headmaster

"Enter!!" boomed the voice from within. The door swung open, revealing a very well-decorated but cluttered room. The style could be described as organized chaos. In that oval room, there was a very sturdy-looking desk at the end. The man sitting on the chair was an overwhelming existence.

The man sitting had golden-amber eyes that seemed to hold a wisdom forged through ages. His deep red, almost maroon-red hair cascaded down his shoulders, adding an element of regality to his presence. The air in the room seemed to ripple with an ancient power, and the artifacts adorning the shelves whispered of countless adventures and secrets. As Alex and Ed entered, the man's gaze focused on them.

"Welcome, young ones," he greeted, his voice carrying the weight of centuries. "I am Ignatius Drakonir, the Headmaster of the Arcane Citadel, and I extend my guidance to you in this realm of magic and knowledge." He continued, "I heard that the Manor has accepted you as its guest. Very peculiar indeed. The manor is known as the Initium Manor, meaning the Manor of Beginnings. Feel free to let out your familiars and take a seat." Two chairs appeared in front of them from thin air. This intrigued Alex even more.

Both of them sat down on these newly conjured chairs. They let out their fenris Umbra and Lux. Both of them were scared once they saw the Headmaster but then quickly assumed defensive positions in front of their masters. Headmaster Ignatius Drakonir observed the fenrirs, Umbra and Lux, with a keen eye. His gaze seemed to pierce through the physical form, delving into the very essence of these mythical creatures. A subtle nod of approval followed, acknowledging the rarity of such powerful familiars. "Impressive companions you have," he remarked. "Now, let us delve into the matters of the Arcane Citadel. This institution operates on a credit system. Starting from the foundational courses, progressing to the advanced studies, you'll earn credits for each completed course. By the third year, you'll have the freedom to choose your courses based on your affinities and interests. Until then, attendance is mandatory, and participation in practicals is required. However, given your magical prowess, both of you being at least 2nd circle, you are exempt from the foundational courses. You have the option to take tests and complete courses early if you wish. This privilege is granted to those who have reached the 2nd circle or higher, sparing you from the basics that the younger or less experienced students have to undergo. Make good use of this flexibility and forge your path wisely in the realm of magic."

"That's amazing sir" Said Alex clearly getting excited about the prospect of learning more magic and also the ability to skip the foundational courses. "If I may sir, How did you conjure these chairs and how did you teleport us?" He asked his eyes gleaming with curiosity.

The Headmaster, chuckled at Alex's enthusiasm, his golden-amber eyes twinkling with a blend of wisdom and amusement. "Ah, the eagerness of youth. Your questions are valid, young Greymore," he responded, gesturing towards the chairs. "These chairs are a product of transmutation magic, a fundamental skill you'll delve into during your studies. As for teleportation, well, that's a secret of the Arcane Citadel. Let's just say the castle has its ways, and you'll understand more as you navigate through the magical currents of this academy. Now, onto more important matters." Ignatius leaned back, the room seeming to absorb the weight of his presence. "You both have exceptional familiars, and your magical aptitude is noteworthy. The Initium Manor's choice to host you aligns with the subtle balance of magic in this realm. Keep honing your skills, and the mysteries of the Arcane Citadel will gradually unfold before you. Off you go now Solana will be waiting." And with a snap of his fingers, Alex and Ed were back in front of the castle where Solana stood smiling in front of them.

As the duo reappeared in front of the castle, Solana greeted them with a warm smile, seemingly unperturbed by the magical teleportation. "Ready for the grand tour?" she asked, her emerald-green eyes sparkling. Without waiting for a response, Solana led them through the imposing gates of the main castle. The interior was as majestic as its exterior, with towering ceilings and ornate decorations that spoke of centuries of magical education. Solana guided them through a series of classrooms, each dedicated to a specific magical discipline. The tour continued to a spacious dining hall, where students gathered for meals and exchanged magical theories. They passed a vast open space designated for practicals, where magical exercises and duels unfolded under the watchful eye of experienced instructors. The highlight of the tour was the massive library, its shelves lined with ancient tomes and mystical artifacts. Solana explained, "As you progress in your studies and clear more classes, the library will unveil its secrets to you. Each cleared course grants you access to more sections, revealing deeper layers of magical knowledge. Make the most of your time here, for the library is a treasure trove waiting to be unlocked with each step of your magical journey. You are now free to explore the castle on your own." With a dreamy nod she left.

As Alex, and Ed wandered through the castle's corridors, they chanced upon a familiar face—Azalea Felionis, the seventh princess of the kingdom whom they had met and saved on the train to the capital. In a playful display of mock formality, both Alex and Ed executed exaggerated bows, addressing her with a grin, "Your Highness." Azalea responded with laughter,"oh stop it you two", waving off the jests with a regal playfulness.

The trio decided to share breakfast in the main dining hall, their laughter and conversation echoing through the vast space. The princess, despite her royal status, easily blended into their camaraderie. As the morning unfolded, plans for exploring the city and contemplating adventures began to take shape, setting the stage for the trio's shared journey beyond the enchanted walls of the Arcane Citadel.

"I want to travel the whole world," declared Alex.

"Can I come with?" asked Ed.

"Oh, to be free," Azalea lamented, her eyes holding a wistful gleam. The prospect of exploring the world beyond the confines of the kingdom intrigued her, and for a moment, the shared dream of venturing into the unknown united the trio in a shared sense of longing and anticipation. "Oh well. What are you boys planning on doing today?" asked Azalea, snapping out of her lament.

"I don't know," said both of them together.

"I feel like a lot has happened already even though it is just the morning," said Ed, letting out a sigh.

"I get you, it feels like I have run a marathon, you know," replied Alex jestfully.

"What is a marathon?" asked Ed.

Alex had slipped up and had let slip out something that existed in his previous world. Apparently, there was no concept of a marathon in this world.

"Oh, nothing. I am just tired, that's all," Alex said, letting out a huge sigh.