Chapter 3: The Avalon Academy

As Maximus stood before the grand gates of the Avalon Academy, he couldn't help but marvel at its majestic beauty. However, his admiration was interrupted by the sight of a long queue of students waiting patiently outside.

Curiosity piqued, Maximus approached one of the guards stationed at the gates and inquired about the reason for the delay. 

Maximus: Excuse me, sir. Why are the gates closed? Is there some sort of trouble?

Guard: Oh, uh... Well, you see, there's a bit of a situation inside. The second and third years are, uh, having a disagreement.

Maximus: A disagreement? What kind of disagreement?

Guard: It's... it's more like a fight, to be honest. They're not letting anyone through until they sort it out.

Maximus: I see. Well, I need to get inside. Is there any way I can help resolve this?

Guard: I-I'm not sure that's a good idea, sir. It's pretty dangerous in there right now.

Maximus: Don't worry, I can handle myself. Besides, I'm eager to see what's happening inside. Perhaps I can be of assistance.

Guard: Well, if you insist... But please be careful, sir. Things are quite chaotic in there.

Maximus: Thank you for your concern. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a situation to attend to.

Guard: Right... Good luck, sir.

With a reluctant sigh, the guard relented and granted Maximus entry. As Maximus stepped inside, he was met with the chaotic scene of second and third-year students locked in a fierce battle. Without hesitation, Maximus seized a nearby metal rod and waded into the fray, intent on making his way through the crowd.

In the heat of the moment, Maximus swung the rod with all his might, inadvertently striking the leader of the third-year students and knocking him unconscious. The sudden turn of events left everyone stunned, their eyes wide with disbelief at Maximus's unexpected actions.

Second-Year Boss: "We won!" (He screams at the top of his lungs, triumphantly raising Max's hand high.)

Second-Year Students: (Cheering erupts among the second-year students as they rally around Max, celebrating their victory.)

Second-Year Boss: "Come on, new guy! Let's go celebrate our win!" He leads Max through the crowd to a nearby classroom.

Inside the Classroom:

Second-Year Boss: "Hey there! Name's Liam. Thanks a ton for helping us out there. Those third-year jerks needed a taste of their own medicine."

Maximus (Still feeling bewildered by the sudden turn of events.): "Um... You're welcome, I guess. But I'm not sure I understand what just happened."

Liam: "Ah, right. Sorry about that. Basically, those third-year bullies have been picking on us for weeks. Today, things got out of hand, and they beat up one of our guys pretty bad. So, we decided to stand up for ourselves and give them a taste of their own medicine."

Maximus (Nodding in understanding.): "I see. Well, I'm glad I could help out. But, uh, I'm still new here. Mind filling me in on how things work around here?"

Liam (Grinning): "Of course! Welcome to the Avalon Academy, Max. You're going to fit right in here. Let me show you the ropes."

Liam: "And over here is the library, where you can find all sorts of ancient tomes and magical texts. It's a great place to study if you're ever looking for some quiet."

Maximus (Nodding appreciatively): "Wow, this place is amazing. Thanks for showing me around, Liam. I really appreciate it."

Liam (Grinning): "No problem, Max! Anything for a fellow junior. Oh, and before I forget, I should show you the principal's office. You'll want to know where it is in case you ever need to speak with him about anything."

Maximus: "Ah, good idea. Lead the way!"

Liam leads Maximus down a corridor and stops in front of a grand door adorned with the school's crest.

Liam: "Here we are. The principal's office. Just knock if you ever need to see him."

Maximus (Offering his gratitude): "Thanks again, Liam. You've been a huge help."

Liam (Smiling): "No problem, Max. Just remember, if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. We're all here to help each other out."

With a final nod of appreciation, Maximus enters the principal's office, ready to embark on his new journey at the Avalon Academy.

Maximus enters the principal's office with determination, despite the initial cold reception. The Principal seeming uninterested, rudely tells Maximus to leave. Maximus unfazed by the insult, releases a powerful demonic aura, causing the room to tremble and the principal to take notice. The principal finally acknowledges Maximus, though still unimpressed.

Maximus (Mockingly): Well, well, well... Look who finally decided to pay attention. You know, Principal, I couldn't help but notice the lack of discipline in this school. It's quite disappointing.

Principal (Defensively): And what would you know about discipline, boy?

Maximus (Confidently): More than you, apparently. But don't worry, I have a solution.

Principal (Curious): And what might that be?

Maximus (Leaning in): I'll bring discipline to this school... on one condition.

Principal (Intrigued, albeit skeptical): And what's that?

Maximus (Grinning): You help me acquire a certain book - Lucifer's diary.

Principal (Taken aback): Lucifer's diary? Are you mad?

Maximus (Persuasively): Not at all. Think about it, Principal. With that book in your possession, you'll have power beyond your wildest dreams. And I can make it happen. But in return, I want immunity for my actions, information on everyone in this school, be it teacher, student, non-teaching staff, everyone; and a weekly income of 5 silver coins."

Principal: Considering the proposal, weighing the risks and benefits.

Maximus (Pressing on): It's a win-win, Principal. Trust me.

After a long conversation, the principal reluctantly agrees, and the two shake on their deal - a partnership forged in secrecy and ambition.

After the long day, Maximus sat in the dimly lit tavern room, surrounded by stacks of parchment. The flickering candlelight cast eerie shadows across his face as he meticulously pored over the information before him.

With a bottle of wine at his side, he carefully studied the profiles of each staff member and student at the academy. Every detail was noted down, from their strengths and weaknesses to their personal connections and ambitions.

As he added his own observations and insights, a grin slowly spread across his face. The pieces were falling into place, and he could sense the power and influence that awaited him.

"Interesting," he murmured to himself, a gleam of anticipation in his eyes. With a final sip of wine, he called it a day, knowing that tomorrow would bring new opportunities and challenges.