Chapter 7

As Erick went out to the balcony of his room feeling lonely that his sister wasn't across from him in her bed like they were back at their family house, snoring and turning like a baby would with no care of how she should sleep. He kept looking for something in the sky to let him know that this is still not a terrible dream, that everything had happened the misery, death of everyone.

"Look my darling you can't always avoid people because they annoy you or something of that nature, we're humans you know, social animals." Said the only woman who ever loved him, accepted him for the weirdo he is." Why did you ever leave us mom?" Whispered Erick still trying to not let his emotions get out of hands.

As he contemplated of his current situation" who is going to go to school tomorrow." He thought to himself.Wanting to have some snacks he started prowling around the estate finding guards every 10 meters, survalence cameras the size of a pinky finger hidden in conspicuous areas, he finally made it to the palace kitchen and with the help of newly awakened kitchen staff member he made his sandwich and went back to bed.

In the servant wing of the palace Richard and Marry the head butler and maide started to select qualified candidates to serve the newest members of the royal family. As they both stood in front of the workers and pointed out two candidates Ms.Rachel and Mr.Daniel you both have been selected to serve the young ones butler and maide, your job is well do I need to say more. His royal highness made it crystal clear. Daily reports are required every 12hrs. Now prepare them for school, now go."

As the morning light hit his face, Erick groaned at the realization of another day. "Whoever you are, please leave. I'm not in the mood today," he said with a tired voice.

"Sorry, young lord, but you are the only one still in bed. Your sister is awake, showered, clothed, and having breakfast. The empress and emperor are also waiting in the dining hall," said Daniel succinctly, with a smile that gave Erick the chills.

Grudgingly, Erick got ready and headed to the dining hall, where he saw new faces. "These are the Royal Shades, my personal force. They'll keep you both safe. They won't reveal themselves unless you're in danger; otherwise, you won't see them again," said Tatiana with pride in her eyes.

"Rachel and Daniel, right? Do you have their things?" asked the empress, gazing at the two servants.

"Yes, Your Highness. Their bags, comm units, black cards, all accounted for," replied Daniel.

"Now both of you have a lovely day. We'll see each other later. And Erick, no fighting under any circumstances," said Tatiana, giving Erick a knowing look. She kissed both of their foreheads, although Erick tried to dodge.

"Try to give this second life a chance, young man," said Julian with a hopeful tone, hoping that a soft approach might stick. Erick's stubborn and unwilling attitude reminded him of his daughter.

Erick and Glory, dressed in the pristine uniforms of the prestigious Shadowvale academy they were about to attend, climbed into the sleek black car waiting for them outside the palace. The car was a symbol of their new life, one they were not quite ready to accept.

As the car glided through the city, Erick stared out the window, lost in thought. The streets were bustling with people, the world moving on as if nothing had changed. But for Erick, everything had changed. He was no longer the same person, and the life ahead seemed daunting and unfamiliar.

Glory, sitting beside him, reached over and squeezed his hand. "We'll get through this together, Erick," she said softly. Her presence was a small comfort compared to the unpleasant scenario swirling around in his mind.

They arrived at the academy, a sprawling campus with towering buildings and well-manicured lawns. Students milled about, laughing and chatting, seemingly carefree. Erick felt a pang of envy, resentment and yet a bit of curiosity about seeing the so called prized specimens,as reality it hit him both of them will be the odd one out.

Rachel and Daniel accompanied them to the entrance, ensuring everything was in order. "Remember, we're just a call away if you need anything," Rachel said with a reassuring smile.

"Thanks," Glory replied, her voice steady but her eyes betraying her nerves.

As they both stood in front of the longest pathway they've ever seen leading to the orientation building glory started to notice how they seemed smaller than most kids, colourful eyes of every colour, hair,skin like everyone was manufactured. It's said that seeing is believing but this just takes the cake.

" We're like a sore thumb brother dearest."

" Tell me about it, but this will make it easier as we are….. well unique."

"Like freaks you mean."

"Hunters sister, HUNTERS….. they'll not see us as humans and we'll suffer for a time or not at all." Said Erick with a little excitement that started to scare his sister.

The siblings despite a shocking awakening marched down that long stretch of road that seemed to never end. As the walked heads started to move in their direction, eye brows raised and a murmur that spreading like wildfire.

They instantly became an oddity as children born without any modifications or genetic alterations just average looking duo. Sine the last 900 years no human has ever been born without any changes to help them fit in their ideal lives and places in society as well, but nevertheless they strode on forward.

The grand auditorium of the academy buzzed with excitement as students gathered for orientation. The hall, adorned with banners and emblems representing the school's long history, seemed almost alive with the whispers of generations past. Erick and Glory, feeling the weight of countless eyes on them, found seats near the back, trying to blend in as much as possible.

The headmaster, a tall man with a commanding presence and a distinguished air, stepped onto the stage. His voice, amplified by the sophisticated sound system, resonated through the hall. "Welcome, new students, to the Academy of Celestia. You are here because you are the best and brightest, chosen for your potential to lead and excel. Today marks the beginning of your journey."

As the headmaster spoke, Erick's mind wandered. He scanned the faces around him, noting the mixture of anticipation and nervousness. Despite the luxurious surroundings, the air was thick with an undercurrent of competition. This was not just a school; it was a proving ground.

"Now, let me introduce your student council president,Lady Viola Redim ," the headmaster announced, stepping aside.

A confident-looking girl of 16 years of age with striking features and a charismatic smile took the stage. "Thank you, Headmaster. Welcome, everyone. As your student council president, it is my honor to guide you through your first days here. The academy is a place of tradition, excellence, and, above all, opportunity. Make the most of it."

Viola's speech was smooth, practiced. He had the room's attention effortlessly. Erick couldn't help but feel a twinge of resentment towards her easy charm. It reminded him too much of people who thrived in the spotlight, while he preferred the shadows.

After the speeches, the new students were divided into groups for a tour of the campus. Erick and Glory were placed in the same group, much to their relief. Their guide was a senior named Elara, a girl with an air of quiet confidence and sharp intelligence, tall with strangely red eyes that somehow made her seem oddly appealing.

"As you can see, the academy boasts state-of-the-art facilities," Elara explained as they walked through the sprawling campus.

"From our advanced laboratories to the expansive library, everything you need to succeed is at your fingertips."

As they approached the library, a massive building that looked more like a cathedral than a place for studying, Elara paused.

"This is one of my favorite places on campus. It's said that every book ever written can be found here. If you're ever looking for me, this is where I'll be."

Glory's eyes lit up at the sight of the library. "It's incredible," she whispered to Erick. "I could spend hours here."

Erick nodded, appreciating the grandeur but feeling more at home with his thoughts than among ancient tomes. As they continued the tour, they passed by the training grounds, where students were practicing various forms of combat, strategy and various weapons in a controlled environment.

This is where the real work happens," Elara said with a knowing smile. "Classes are important, but what you learn here will shape your future. Every skill you hone, every challenge you face, prepares you for the real world."

Erick watched as students sparred with precision and intensity. "This is General Colthorn," introduced Elara with a deep bow deserving of his station and rank. The General, a stern and imposing figure, acknowledged them with a curt nod.

"He is in charge of the military aspect of the school," Elara continued. "Since the school has a 12-hour day, half of it you'll spend with his staff until the fourth year. That is, if you survive the school."

The students exchanged wary glances as Elara went on, "In your fourth year, you'll choose and be chosen by the various departments in the school. You can also take their entrance exams."

General Colthorn stepped forward, his eyes scanning the new students with a mixture of scrutiny and challenge. "This institution is not just about academic excellence. It's about preparing you for the future of our country. You will be trained, tested, and pushed beyond your limits. Only the strong will excel here."

Erick felt a chill run down his spine but also a spark of determination. This was what he needed: a place that could forge him into the weapon he desired to become. Glory, standing beside him, seemed resolute, her eyes reflecting her commitment to bring justice.

Elara gestured towards the sparring students. "These exercises are just the beginning. You'll learn combat, strategy, and leadership. Your time here will shape your future, whether in the military, politics, or other fields."

As they watched, a match concluded with one student disarming another with a swift, calculated move. The defeated student stood up, panting, and bowed respectfully to their opponent.

"Remember," General Colthorn said, "discipline, respect, and perseverance are your keys to success here. Dismissed!"

As Elara led the students toward the science and technology building, she began to explain, "For those who aren't aware yet, our school boasts the second-best science and technology departments in the country. We have everything from the Oculus microscope and supercomputers, only found in the Royal Research Laboratory, to the latest advancements in agriculture, medicine, architecture, and even classified military research. There are too many fields of study to count."

She gestured towards the impressive towers of the buildings forming a circle in the middle of the school campus.

The students marveled at the sleek, modern architecture and the bustling activity inside the glass-walled laboratories. Researchers and students in lab coats moved about, engaged in various experiments and projects.

Elara led them into the central atrium of the science building not as tall but way more wider. A vast space filled with natural light and lined with display cases showcasing some of the school's most impressive achievements. "This is the heart of our science department," she explained. "From here, you can access all the different research facilities and classrooms. We encourage you to explore and find your passion."

Elara noticed a group of students demonstrating a drone they had built. She pointed it out to the newcomers. "Look at that project. These students are testing a new type of drone designed for agricultural surveillance like weather data gathering, also it has a great potential for the military as well,It's just one example of the kind of work you can get involved in here."

Erick and Glory exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued. The promise of exploring cutting-edge technology and making their mark on the world filled them with a renewed sense of purpose.

Elara continued the tour, guiding them through the various labs and workshops. "This is the robotics lab And over here, we have the biotechnology lab, where groundbreaking research in genetic engineering is taking place."

The students were in awe of the opportunities before them. As they concluded the tour, Elara reminded them, "Remember, the first step to achieving greatness is to be open to learning and collaborating. We are all here to support each other in our quest for knowledge and innovation."

Erick and Glory felt a mix of excitement and anticipation as they prepared to embark on this new chapter of their lives, ready to face the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.