The Kingdom of Nora reigns supreme over nearly half of the central territory of the continent. Despite its dominance, the kingdom chose to establish an academy near the western border—an institution reserved for the children of great political figures.
Founded over two centuries ago by exceptional mages and knights, the academy admits only nobles. Its reputation has spread as far as the Western Kingdoms, where it is well known that sending one's child there guarantees not only an intermediate-class weapon, but also a true monster of knowledge.
It was for this reason that Melty, the second princess of Nora, was setting off for four years of training. Yes—four long years.
Ella, however, was going there for a different reason. Thanks to her extraordinary genius, she had graduated at the age of sixteen. Granted a scholarship, she had then been selected to teach for one year in the magic division, as a form of recognition for her achievements.
As for Alex and Karden, victims of circumstance, they were not coming to study at all. Their role was to ensure the safety of Princess Melty. For all these reasons, the convoy carrying them reached Doran—a city near the academy—after more than two weeks of travel. The city was large and bustling, rich in trade.
From the window, Alex observed the city and thought:
(It's obvious. Given its location, this city lives off border trade. If the academy isn't far, it should be somewhere around here.)
But on the opposite side, he noticed Ella staring out the window as well, her head resting on her fist.
(Then it's probably not here. I would've seen a reaction from Ella. Besides, since the journey began, she hasn't seemed quite herself. I talk a lot, but I don't even know what life in an academy is really like. Maybe it's not as great as people claim.)
Soon after, the convoy turned away from the city and headed toward the forest. Despite how deeply they ventured into it, proper roads continued to stretch ahead. Slowly climbing a hill, they finally arrived at their destination.
A massive steel gate. A road paved with stone slabs. A large fountain. Then towering buildings rose into view. The academy looked exactly like the ones described in fantasy tales. The wagons and carriage moved onward toward the dormitories, just as impressive, standing farther ahead.
The lead carriage came to a halt, as did the mounted escorts. The riders dismounted. The knight leading the convoy stepped forward and bowed before an elderly woman wearing a servant's apron.
He spoke:
— My respects, great steward of our humble institution. We have been sent from the capital to entrust these inexperienced youths to your care.
The woman studied him for a long moment before replying:
— Oh, Gabriel! My dear child… so you're already working in the capital?
Gabriel (Knight):
— Yes, and it's all thanks to the training I received here. I'm still deeply grateful.
She placed a hand on his shoulder.
— There's no need for that, my boy. Stand up straight. And you there, in the carriage! Hurry up and show yourselves—and quickly!
Ella was the first to step down, followed by the rest of the group. Despite her reputation for being harsh, the old woman smiled broadly and exclaimed:
— Well, well! Wouldn't you know it—our little prodigy mage? Ella! So you truly came after all?
Ella bowed politely.
— Madam Lurecia. You already knew. It was my only condition when I completed my four years of study here.
Lurecia snapped her fingers, grinning widely. Servants immediately rushed over.
— You'll wait for Miss Ella's belongings to be presented, then take them to the instructors' quarters.
The men unloading the wagons began to move the luggage.
Lurecia:
— And the others? Have you lost your tongues?
Hearing this, Alex recalled what Ella had told him earlier:
The dormitories are managed by Lurecia—a woman with a rather shocking personality. When we arrive, don't say anything. Let me do the talking. It'll be better that way.
(I completely understand.) Alex thought.
Standing beside Ella, Melty bowed and spoke:
— My name is Melty Nora, and these two boys are my personal guards.
Lurecia stroked her chin thoughtfully, then snapped her fingers again.
— So, we have Tanya Junior and her entourage.
Six more servants appeared at once.
— Girls, take care of our guests.
Then, with confidence, Lurecia smiled.
— Go on, make yourselves comfortable. I have a feeling this year is going to be exciting, little prodigy!
With that, she walked away.
Still bowed beside Ella, Melty trembled with frustration before straightening up alongside her.
The men continued unloading the wagons while the servants carried the luggage away. In the middle of it all, Alex and the others simply stood there.
Alex looked at Ella—and read her lips:
I can feel it… this year is going to be long and exhausting.
NEXT CHAPTER:
Royal Academy – Act 1: Ella (The Little Girl of Magic)