The bustle in front of the gates of the Royal Academy of Magic reached its apex when the noble carriages began to position themselves. Each vehicle, a work of art in itself, disembarked its illustrious passengers, young nobles destined to shape the future of the Empire.
From the carriage adorned with the coat of arms of the House of Eldrune, a young man of impeccable posture emerged. Arvid Eldrune was the embodiment of early scholarship. Her dark blue hair, precisely combed back, revealed a high forehead and a piercing gaze. A pair of golden glasses framed his eyes, giving him the air of a born scholar. His expression was the definition of seriousness, an unwavering countenance that conveyed a sharp mind and a superior intellect. He emanated an aura of intense concentration, as if he were constantly solving complex equations in his mind.
Then, from the carriage of Casa Lyra, a young woman of delicate and frail appearance got out. Celestina Lyra possessed an aura of sweetness and shyness that made her look even younger than her age. Her short black hair framed an oval face, with bangs that almost obscured her eyes. Her movements were soft and hesitant, and her gaze was often averted, as if she were uncomfortable with attention. There was an innocence to his presence, a vulnerability that contrasted sharply with the pomp and circumstance of the occasion.
The carriage of Thorne House revealed a young man with light brown and curly hair. Ernest Thorne radiated joy and relaxation. Her hair, a little long and loose at the neck, framed a smiling face and bright eyes. He possessed a friendly and approachable aura, as if he was always ready to make a new friend. His posture was relaxed and his gestures were animated, transmitting a positive and contagious energy.
Finally, from the last carriage, a figure emerged that captured the attention of all present. Seraphina Vancroft was the very embodiment of elegance and sophistication. Her long black hair rippled down her back, framing a face with fine features and a serene look. A strategically placed fringe covered her right eye, adding a touch of mystery to her countenance. His posture was impeccable, his movements graceful and his expression unwavering. She exuded an aura of confidence and distinction that rivaled even Elyandra herself, a noble high-class model.
Together, Elyandra and the other young nobles formed a group that exuded the aura of the high nobility. Their combined presence was overwhelming, capable of intimidating even the most experienced courtiers. A reverent silence settled among the other aspiring students, who watched the group with a mixture of awe and apprehension.
Elyandra, for her part, hid her nervousness behind a mask of composure. Inside, his mind was buzzing with conflicting thoughts and emotions.
"My God... I am surrounded by the high degree of nobility!" She thought, her eyes scanning each of the nobles with a mixture of fascination and incredulity. "Arvid Eldrune... Celestina Lyra as S. Ernest Thorne as Ernest Thorne Seraphina Vancroft as Seraphina Vancroft That's them! The names that echo in the halls of the nobility, the figures that shape the destiny of the Empire!"
The proximity to those illustrious figures was almost surreal for Elyandra. Despite her own position of nobility, she felt like a spectator, witnessing an event of historical importance.
"Seraphina Vancroft..." Elyandra's gaze fixed on the young noblewoman, and a comical thought arose in her mind. "She's... impressive. The way she moves, the way she looks... It's like she's born on a throne."
The comparison with Seraphina was visible. Both were high-class nobles, Seraphina possessed an aura of sophistication and almost adult confidence that Elyandra could only emulate with that face mask she had trained for so long.
"I need to pull myself together. I'm a Valemortis, after all!" Elyandra remembered her position and straightened her posture, her face assuming an expression of calm and control. She would not allow the presence of the other nobles to intimidate her. She was there to prove her worth, to forge her own path at the Royal Academy of Magic.
It was like a test of knowledge, a test made to test the intelligence of those present who had the ambition to enter the magic academy.
The great hall of the Royal Academy of Magic pulsated with a tense and expectant energy. The young nobles, dressed in formal robes and serious expressions, occupied the rows of polished wooden tables. The soft light that came in through the tall windows illuminated the concentrated faces, while the silence was broken only by the brushing of feathers against the parchment.
Elyandra sat at her assigned table, her gaze scanning the room. The pomp and circumstance of the occasion were undeniable, but she could not help but notice the subtlety of the hierarchies present. The nobles of more influential houses, such as her, occupied the front seats, while those of smaller or less affluent houses were accommodated further back.
"It's almost palpable the class divide in here," Elyandra thought, her analytical mind processing every detail. "This academy is not for commoners. The cost to even register for these tests would be enough to ruin anyone who does not have a title of nobility or a considerable fortune."
His golden eyes scanned the other candidates, recognizing the faces and coats of arms he had seen on arrival. Arvid Eldrune, with his stiff posture and studious glasses, seemed absorbed in deep thought. Celestina Lyra, with her fragile and shy countenance, shook hands nervously. Ernest Thorne, with his cheerful and relaxed aura, smiled at some acquaintances. And Seraphina Vancroft, with her serene elegance, watched the room with a piercing gaze, evaluating each one as if they were pieces in a chess game.
An imposing professor, wearing academic robes embroidered with runes, walked to the center of the hall. His deep voice echoed through the room, silencing the whispers and movements.
"Welcome to the Royal Academy of Magic's Official Admission Assessment. The first phase, the General Theoretical Test, will now begin.
The teacher explained the rules and distributed the magic notebooks, enchanted artifacts that recorded the candidates' answers and prevented any form of cheating. Elyandra received hers, feeling the slight tingle of magic in her fingers as she touched it.
When she opened the notebook, Elyandra was faced with a series of essay and objective questions. The questions covered a wide range of topics: Imperial History, Fundamentals of Magic, Internal Politics, and Religion. Each question was formulated to test not only the candidates' knowledge, but also their argumentation skills, logical reasoning, and clarity in writing.
As she read the questions, Elyandra realized that the test was more than just an academic test. It was an immersion in the complexity of the Empire of Divine Light, an exploration of its values, its beliefs, and its contradictions.
Imperial History questions revealed the rise and fall of dynasties, the wars and alliances that shaped the kingdom, and the role of magic in each pivotal event. The questions on Fundamentals of Magic delved into the principles of mana manipulation, the different schools of magic, and the limits of arcane power.
Matters of Internal Politics required an understanding of the intricate relationships between the Noble Houses, the power struggles, and the diplomatic maneuvers that maintained the balance (or imbalance) of the Empire. And the questions about Religion explored the influence of the Church of the Divine Light, its dogmas, its rituals and its impact on society.
Elyandra answered the questions carefully and accurately, her mind working quickly to recall the teachings of her tutors and her own observations. She argued eloquently, reasoned logically, and wrote clearly, demonstrating a deep understanding of the world in which she lived.
However, one question in particular caught his attention. It was a trick question about a controversial political event, a "prank" that seemed designed to test the candidates' loyalty and their ability to navigate troubled waters.
Elyandra smiled slightly, a mischievous glint in her golden eyes. She recognized the trap, but she also saw an opportunity. An opportunity to show off your wits, your wits, and your ability to play the game of politics with the same skill as any experienced nobleman.
With a steady pen, she began to write her answer, her words flowing with confidence and determination.
Time passed quickly, and the teacher announced the end of the test. The candidates handed over their magic notebooks, and the hall gradually emptied, leaving behind a silence full of expectation.
Elyandra stood up from her desk, feeling a mixture of relief and excitement. She had given her best, and now all that was left was to wait for the results.
As she walked towards the exit, she exchanged glances with the other nobles. Arvid Eldrune kept his expression serious, as if he was still pondering the questions. Celestina Lyra looked relieved, but still a little nervous. Ernest Thorne smiled widely, confident in his performance. And Seraphina Vancroft watched her with an indecipherable gaze, as if she were trying to decipher her thoughts.
Elyandra returned Seraphina's gaze with a polite smile, but inside, her mind was already preparing for the next phase of the test. She knew that the challenges were just beginning, and that the Royal Academy of Magic was a place where only the smartest, the most skilled, and the most ambitious would survive.
Elyandra left the tasting hall with graceful steps, her noble and elegant posture attracting looks of admiration and respect. Years of refined training had shaped her movements, turning her into an embodiment of high society.
As he walked through the corridors of the Academy, his mind was still absorbed in pondering the answers he had given on the test. She went over every argument, every detail, looking for any loophole or mistake she might have made.
Suddenly, a strong and agile body collided with his, interrupting his thoughts. Elyandra staggered slightly, her composure momentarily shaken.
"Oh! Forgive me, Lady..." A deep, melodious male voice sounded above her.
Elyandra looked up and came across a man of about 28 years old, whose beauty rivaled that of a prince. His features were sculpted, his dark brown hair elegantly combed, and his blue eyes shone with a sharp wit. Despite his aristocratic appearance, his muscular body revealed undeniable physical strength. It was the teacher himself who had presented the evidence, now with an expression of genuine concern on his face.
"I'm the one who must apologize, Professor..." Elyandra quickly regained her composure, straightening her posture and offering a polite smile. "I was a little distracted.
"It's my pleasure, Lady..." The teacher made a brief bow, his voice full of courtesy. "I'm Professor Armand.
"Elyandra." "Elyandra Valemortis," replied Elyandra, introducing herself with all the formality and elegance of a high-class noblewoman.
His clear, melodious voice echoed down the hallway, attracting the attention of everyone present. The other nobles and candidates stopped to watch her, their gazes full of curiosity and a touch of envy. Elyandra's presence, combined with her illustrious lineage, emanated an aura of power and distinction that few could match.
Professor Armand recognized the name Valemortis with a glint of interest in his eye.
"Valemortis... An honor to meet the heiress of House Valemortis. Your beauty is as undeniable as your upbringing, Lady Elyandra.
He stepped forward and, with a startling gesture, reached out to arrange a rebellious strand that had escaped Elyandra's hairstyle. His fingers brushed gently against his cheek, a touch that lasted only an instant, but that seemed to extend for an eternity.
In Elyandra's mind, an alarm sounded, accompanied by a wave of discomfort.
"This is strange... very strange." She thought, her golden eyes narrowing slightly. "I would never have thought that way when I was a man. Fixing a girl's hair, especially a nine-year-old? Is... disturbing."
The scene hit her with a comical force. She imagined the reaction of her former self, the 32-year-old man, at the prospect of touching a child's hair. The thought was absurd, almost surreal.
"Maybe it's just the culture of this world," she reflected, trying to find a rational explanation. "Maybe gestures like this are considered normal here. But still... it's weird."
She suppressed a tremor, keeping her expression calm and composed. She would not allow the teacher's behavior to destabilize her. She was Elyandra Valemortis, a high-class noblewoman, and she would handle the situation with the same elegance and control she had always shown.
Elyandra offered Professor Armand a polite smile.
"It was a pleasure to meet you, Professor.
"Likewise, Lady Valemortis," he replied, a gallant smile on his lips as he walked away, holding the bundle of evidence carefully.
Elyandra watched Professor Armand Velacroix walk away for a moment, her mind still processing the brief encounter.
"Maybe...", she thought, frowning slightly. "Thirty-two years without any meaningful female interaction in my past life... Maybe that makes me super analyze simple gestures. Perhaps for Professor Armand, it was just an act of courtesy."
She shook her head slightly, deciding not to dwell too much on the subject. There were more important things to worry about, such as the next phase of the test and adjusting to life at the Academy.
With firm steps, Elyandra made her way towards what seemed to be a large food hall. The buzz of voices and the aroma of noble food grew stronger as she approached. When she crossed the doors, she came across a large and richly decorated hall, where several young nobles were gathered, enjoying meals prepared by the Academy itself. The variety of robes and coats of arms filled the room with a kaleidoscope of colors and symbols of power.
Elyandra entered the food hall with her impeccable posture, her golden eyes scouring the room with discreet curiosity. She made her way to the counter, where several Academy staff, dressed in elegant uniforms, prepared a variety of dishes that exuded tantalizing aromas.
Even though she grew up in the opulence of Casa Valemortis, Elyandra couldn't help but be amazed by the extravagance of the cuisine presented there. There were roasted meats with rare herbs, exotic fruits arranged in elaborate arrangements, breads of different types and textures, and sweets that looked like edible jewels. The nobility of the food and the impeccable presentation surpassed even the sumptuous banquets of his own home.
With graceful and calculated movements, Elyandra took a fine porcelain plate and carefully selected a few items that pleased her, always maintaining her composure and avoiding any sign of greed. Then he went to an empty table and sat down with the elegance that was peculiar to him.
Leaning lightly on the chair, he kept his spine straight and his shoulders relaxed. He took the silver cutlery with dexterity and began to cut his food into small, uniform pieces, bringing each portion to his mouth gently and chewing slowly. His table etiquette was impeccable, a reflection of years of rigorous instruction.
Despite her apparent tranquility and the noble mask she kept intact, inside Elyandra was in a state of near panic. Feeling the gazes of everyone present fixed on her was overwhelming. His every move seemed to be analyzed, every bite observed.
"My God... It's like I'm on a stage," she thought, her impassive face contrasting with the whirlwind of emotions inside. "Breathe, Elyandra, breathe. Act like it's the most natural thing in the world. Nine years of training for this very moment. Don't freak out. Don't freak out."
She kept her focus on her meal, pretending to ignore the attention it attracted, while secretly longing for the moment when she could retreat to a more secluded place.
The atmosphere of relative tranquility that Elyandra had been trying to maintain at her desk soon dissipated. As if attracted by an invisible magnetic field, the other high-class nobles who had arrived along with her began to approach.
Arvid Eldrune, with his formal posture and analytical eye, was the first to approach. He stopped next to Elyandra's desk, a slight nod in her direction.
"Lady Valemortis." Would you allow me to join you?
Before Elyandra could answer, Celestina Lyra approached shyly, her eyes even covered showed hesitation.
"Excuse me..." Lady Valemortis... Can I sit too?
Then Ernest Thorne, with his contagious smile, approached the table.
"Lady Valemortis!" It's good to meet her. Can we join you?
Finally, Seraphina Vancroft, with her innate elegance, completed the group.
"Lady Valemortis." It would be a pleasure to share your table.
In a matter of moments, Elyandra's table, which she had chosen in the hope of a moment of peace and discretion, had become the epicenter of the attention of the high nobility present in the hall. The environment around him, once a silent refuge, now pulsated with the presence of these influential young people.
On the outside, Elyandra kept her nobleman's mask impeccable, offering polite smiles and nods to each one who joined her table. She exchanged formal greetings and began pleasant conversations about the test and her first impressions of the Academy.
However, inside, the situation was quite different. Her constant attention and the need to maintain an impeccable posture in front of those who were her equals (and in some cases, perhaps even her superiors in influence) left her in a constant state of alert.
"Great," Elyandra thought, a touch of irony in her thoughts. "My little oasis of peace lasted exactly... How long? Now this table has an invisible sign written 'Elite Meeting Point'. This is going to be... interesting."
She knew that being surrounded by those nobles could be an opportunity to form alliances and gain valuable information. But it also represented constant scrutiny, where every word and every gesture would be analyzed and interpreted. His tranquility had evaporated, replaced by an acute need for caution and strategy. His reserved table had become, ironically, a makeshift stage for the game of the nobility.
The atmosphere around Elyandra's table was charged with a silent tension, broken only by the gentle clinking of the cutlery against the porcelain. Elyandra savored her meal with unwavering composure, watching the group around her with a peripheral gaze, assessing every movement and every expression.
Suddenly, the silence was broken by the gentle touch of a hand on his. The unexpected contact caused Elyandra to freeze, her muscles tense for a split second. Her noble smile remained stamped on her face as her eyes fixed on the plate, without her turning to identify the author of the touch.
"Lady Valemortis..." Celestina's hesitant and sweet voice broke the silence. "If it's not impolite to ask..." why did you choose to join the Royal Academy of Magic instead of following the ways of the Church?
The question hit Elyandra like a well-aimed arrow. She remembered the expectation that hung over her, her reputation as a possible Saint, a chosen one of the Divine Light. She noticed the curious looks of the others at the table, with the exception of Seraphina, whose countenance remained impassive, oblivious to the conversation.
"The Royal Academy has customs... Elyandra replied, her voice maintaining a calm and controlled tone. "And there is much that I still want to study and understand.
Celestina frowned slightly, her expression confused. Being from House Lyra, the Voice of the Goddess, her paths have always been intrinsically linked to faith.
"I... I don't quite understand," Celestina murmured. "As I was born in Casa Lyra, I have always been taught in the ways of Divine Light. I never imagined going in any other direction... different from the path of the Saint.
Elyandra brought a hand to her chin, pretending to ponder the other young woman's words.
"Ah... well, I believe I have considerable knowledge about the ways of the Divine Light. But... I confess that the aspects of magic in this world arouse a great curiosity in me.
Celestina watched her with a puzzled look, her shyness momentarily overcome by surprise.
"It's the first time I've met someone... so different from me, even though I know that... perhaps we share the same fate.
Those words made Elyandra raise an eyebrow, her attention now fully focused on Celestina.
"Do we share the same fate?" What exactly do you mean by that, Lady Lyra?
Slowly, Celestina turned her face towards Elyandra. His cheeks were slightly flushed, and his eyes still bore a trace of shyness. But when Elyandra stared into his eyes, a shock ran through her body. Celestina Lyra's eyes were the same golden hue as hers. Celestina Lyra was also a Saint.