Chapter 11: New Dawn

The journey to the academy was long and arduous, stretching nearly two weeks on foot. The roads were unforgiving, but I made do, hunting small game to sustain myself. When I reached the first major village along the way, I decided to sell some of my catches. One particularly large quillbeast had magnificent feathers, which fetched a hefty sum—more than I had expected. The extra money was welcome, but as I wandered through the village, I couldn't help but notice the growing unease among the people.

Rumors of a full-scale war with the orcs spread like wildfire. Families were fleeing from the borderlands, pushing deeper into the kingdom's interior. Wagons loaded with supplies trundled down the roads, all heading toward the heart of Solvaris. It made sense—Solvaris Reach, the kingdom's capital, was one of the most fertile and well-protected regions. The land was rich enough to cultivate even magical herbs, making it an invaluable resource. That was likely why the Academy of Duskbarrow had been established so close to it.

Duskbarrow was unlike any province I had seen before. It was a land of illusions—both literal and figurative. Powerful enchantments safeguarded its borders, making it one of the kingdom's most fortified havens. Within its walls, life went on undisturbed, the looming conflicts of the outside world feeling like distant whispers. It was a place where people could build new futures, free from the burdens of war.

When I finally reached the city, I was stopped at the gates by a group of guards. They were thorough, questioning every traveler about the purpose of their visit.

"I'm here to join the academy," I told them.

At that, their expressions shifted—respect, but also pity.

"A commoner, huh?" one of the guards muttered. "You won't have it easy in there."

I had anticipated some level of divide between nobles and commoners, but for even the city guards to acknowledge it so openly... It made me uneasy. Still, I wasn't about to let that deter me.

Heads up, Sebastian. You've come too far to be discouraged now.

With their inspection complete, they allowed me through, wishing me good luck as I entered the city.

Duskbarrow was breathtaking. The academy itself sat atop the highest ground, resembling a colossal fortress with an enormous domain. Vast gardens stretched between towering stone buildings, and at the edges of the academy grounds, dense forests loomed, likely used for training.

As I made my way toward the main entrance, I marveled at the structures, the sprawling courtyards, the finely sculpted statues of past mages and warriors. Then, in the sky above, something caught my eye—a summon.

A magnificent pegasus soared gracefully through the air, a young woman perched upon its back. The sight sent a thrill through me. Seeing a summon in person, moving with such elegance and power, made everything feel real.

At the main gate, I was asked for my name and background.

"Sebastian," I stated. "I'm a commoner."

At that, the guards visibly relaxed. They must be afraid of offending the wrong noble. I suppose one mistake could cost them their job.

Once my identity was confirmed, they directed me to the reception hall, where I would receive my dorm assignment.

When I arrived, the staff informed me, "You're lucky. You've been assigned a private room."

That was unexpected. Most students had to share their quarters, but I had been given a space to myself. A bit of privacy. It was a small comfort, but I welcomed it.

The dormitory wasn't extravagant, but it was cozy. There was a balcony overlooking part of the academy, a large empty corner, a sturdy wooden desk, and a spacious closet—perfect for storing books, herbs, or any magical trinkets I might collect.

As I unpacked my things, I started feeling at ease, slowly settling into my new reality.

Then—a knock at the door.

I set my bag down and went to open it, but when I looked outside... no one was there.

Just as confusion started setting in, a deep, gruff voice called out—"Down here, big one!"

I glanced downward and was met with the sight of a stout, broad-shouldered dwarf standing before me, his thick beard adorned with small metal rings.

"I—uh, apologies," I stammered, realizing I hadn't noticed him at first.

The dwarf let out a booming laugh. "No need to fret, lad. Happens all the time!" He clapped a hand against his chest. "Name's Torik Anvilborn. Heard from the reception that another early arrival was here, so I figured I'd introduce myself."

I grinned, shaking his hand firmly. "Sebastian. It's good to meet you."

Torik smirked. "Want to join me on a walk? Academy's got a lot to see."

I nodded eagerly. "Absolutely."

With that, I stepped outside, ready to explore this strange new world that would soon become my home.