The season was nearing the end of Crystalautumn, a time of transformation in the Kingdom of Valoria.
The air carried a peculiar warmth, despite the chill that hinted at the approaching Flowerfrost. The trees, their leaves a vibrant orange, shimmered with the faint glow of magical crystals that sprouted from the organic soil.
It was a sight unique to Aethyra, a planet of wonder nestled in the Cresonent Galaxy. Aethyra, with its 16-month years, 30-day months, and three moons, was a world of endless marvels. But for Ray, it was just home—a home he was still trying to understand.
The Kingdom of Valoria stood as the crown jewel of the human race, A sprawling nation that dominated the continent. While other races existed, scattered across the lands, Valoria was a bastion of humanity.
Its grandeur was unmatched, its influence unparalleled. And at the heart of Valoria lay the Valorian University of Grandmasters, an institution renowned across Aethyra for its unparalleled education. It was a place where the brightest minds gathered, where knowledge was revered above all else. And now, it was a new beginning.
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The clock struck 9:58 AM,
and the halls of the university buzzed with life. Students hurried to their classrooms, their chatter filling the air. In one such classroom, a group of students sat in anticipation.
The professor, an elderly man with a grand presence, stood at the front. His deep blue cloak, adorned with golden trims, draped over a sleek black suit. His white-gray beard cascaded down his chest, and his eyes, though aged, sparkled with wisdom. This was Professor Archwood, a name that commanded respect.
As the students settled, a collective sigh of relief swept through the room.
"Gosh, We're saved this semester"
one student whispered. Another chuckled,
"Professor Archwood's covering for us. No need to worry about homeworks."
The room buzzed with quiet laughter until Professor Archwood cleared his throat, silencing the chatter.
"As we neat the end of this season,"
he began, his voice steady and commanding,
"We welcome two students. One is a transfer, And another is returning."
A girl with dark brown hair raised her hand.
"Is one of them princess mizuko?"
she asked eagerly. Professor Archwood nodded.
"Indeed, She is."
A bald student in the back smirked.
"And who's the other chump?"
he asked, his tone laced with mischief. Without hesitation, Professor Archwood hurled a piece of chalk at him, striking him square on the forehead.
"You'd do well keep your mouth in check this semester,"
the professor warned.
"You've already failed last three, don't make it four."
The bald student rolled his eyes but stayed silent.
The professor continued.
"The new student will introduce himself shortly. For now, He's with principal Kenshinton."
As if on cue, a soft knock echoed through the room. A melodic voice followed.
"May I come in professor?"
"Yes. you may, princess,"
Professor Archwood replied.
The door opened, and in walked a girl who seemed to radiate light. Her golden hair cascaded like waves of wheat, her pale skin glowed softly, and her eyes, deep as the midnight ocean, held a warmth that could melt the coldest of hearts. She smiled, and the room seemed to brighten. This was princess Mizuko, the beloved daughter of Valoria's royal family Waikatsu.
"Good morning, Everyone,"
she greeted, her voice like a gentle melody.
"I've missed you all."
The students responded with equal enthusiasm, their admiration for her evident. Professor Archwood gestured to her seat.
"Ms. Princess, You may take your place."
Mizuko nodded and made her way to her desk, where her best friend, Bonnie, awaited her.
"Wuaaa! Long time no see, Bonniiieeee!!!!"
Mizuko exclaimed, wrapping her arms around her friend. Bonnie grinned.
"I missed you tooo, My bbguurlll! Where have you been????"
The two giggled, their bond unshaken by time.
Before the chatter could resume, another knock sounded at the door.
"May I come in?"
a voice asked, this one deeper and more reserved. Professor Archwood nodded.
"You may."
The door opened, and in stepped a boy with striking green hair and crimson-red eyes. His left hand was covered by a black glove, adding an air of mystery to his appearance. The room fell silent as all eyes turned to him.
"Hmnn... You must be the new student?"
Professor Archwood stated. The boy nodded.
"Affirmative."
"Introduce yourself then."
The boy turned to face the class, his gaze steady.
"Ray, Woeven Ray."
He paused, as if unsure of what else to say. The professor raised an eyebrow.
"Umm.. Your Nation?"
he prompted.
"Shinwa."
Ray replied.
A murmur rippled through the room.
"Shinwa? That's the kingdom under Evyon!"
one student whispered. Another added,
"Evyon? The land of dragons? Central Aethyra??"
Ray nodded, confirming their suspicions. The students exchanged impressed glances.
Professor Archwood cleared his throat, regaining control of the room.
"Uhh...so, Woeven, What inspired you to enroll in our academy?"
Ray's answer was simple.
"Better Studying."
The professor chuckled.
"Valid answer. Very well. You may take the seat near Sakushi. SAKUSHI!!"
A boy with Brown hair raised his hand.
"YES SIR!!!"
"Guide Woeven about everything after today's class."
"Yes, Sir!"
Ray made his way to his seat, the weight of curious stares following him. As he sat down, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease.