The carriage landed softly on the glowing stone road. The two winged horses neighed, their cry echoing through the courtyard and alerting the nearby staff and students.
What stood out about this landing, however, was where it happened—directly in front of the Headmaster's Mansion.
Whispers rippled through the area. Academy staff and onlookers passing by exchanged curious glances. The carriage bore the seal of Mystoria Academy, and such a direct arrival was far from normal.
"Welcome, Mister Samuel," the driver said, pulling open the carriage door.
Sam stepped out, fixing his uniform and brushing imaginary dust from his sleeves. His eyes widened slightly as he took in the surroundings—floating crystals powered water fountains, luminous plants, and magic-infused tools functioning like common household items.
"Fascinating, isn't it?" came a smooth voice.
Sam turned and saw a sharp-featured man dressed in a formal black butler uniform. The man stood tall with a calm demeanor, his eyes studying Sam keenly.
"Yes, very," Sam replied. "And… you are?"
"My name is Burot Stale. I serve as the personal assistant to the Headmaster."
"A pleasure to meet you, Mister Burot. I'm Samuel Wildheart." Sam gave a respectful nod.
Burot offered a faint smile. "Welcome to Mystoria Academy. Please, follow me. The Headmaster is expecting you."
Sam blinked. "The Headmaster? Why?"
"She will explain it herself," Burot replied.
Sam hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. Let's not keep her waiting."
What Sam didn't know was that the Headmaster was already observing him—through a subtle scrying spell woven into her office mirror. A soft chuckle escaped her lips.
"He's here, finally," she murmured to herself, amused by the boy's mannerisms.
As Burot led Sam into the mansion, she turned away from the magical mirror and took her seat at a grand, ornate desk—ready to greet her guest.
Inside the Headmaster's office, Sam's nerves began to build. His footsteps echoed faintly in the hallway as he followed Burot.
"Don't worry," Burot said, glancing at him. "She's strict, but fair."
"I hope so," Sam muttered.
The doors opened.
He stepped into the room, his breath catching momentarily. Seated behind a desk was the most breathtaking woman he had ever seen. Her snowy-white hair framed a flawless face; her ice-blue eyes shimmered with an otherworldly light. Power radiated from her effortlessly.
Sam quickly suppressed his thoughts and bowed respectfully.
"Greetings, Headmaster. I am Samuel Wildheart. It's an honor to meet you."
Riena Ravenblake, the legendary Headmaster of Mystoria Academy, tilted her head slightly. Her expression was calm and unreadable.
Yet within her mind, she was impressed. Most people freeze when they see me for the first time, she thought. But he… composed himself instantly. How curious.
"Welcome, Samuel Wildheart," she said, her voice elegant yet distant. "I am Riena Ravenblake, Headmaster of this academy."
She gestured toward the chair opposite her. "I summoned you here to explain a few… important matters."
Sam sat down, still unsure what to expect.
"You are the most special student in the academy right now," Riena stated bluntly.
Sam blinked. Special? Why? I just passed the entrance exam like any other commoner…
She continued, "We have a strict process for accepting students, whether noble-born or commoners. Mystoria Academy does not discriminate. While some students may carry their arrogance from birth, we strive to maintain balance and fairness."
She leaned forward slightly, her gaze sharpening.
"During the admission conference, where I and other senior faculty approve final selections, we received something unusual… a divine letter—bearing the seal of the Goddess of Light."
Sam's eyes widened. "A letter… with my name on it? From a goddess?"
"I was hoping you could explain that," Riena replied evenly.
"I… I honestly have no idea. I thought I got in through my own efforts—by passing the mana tracing competition during the entrance trials."
Riena gave a rare, thoughtful nod. "That's what makes this even more mysterious. The Goddess herself vouched for you. That alone guarantees your acceptance… but also puts a target on your back."
Sam frowned. "A target?"
"You'll be respected by many, envied by some, and watched by most. Especially the nobles. Be cautious. Power makes you a player… or a pawn."
She stood and looked at him directly. "For now, you're under my protection. But how you handle this blessing—or curse—is entirely up to you."
Sam nodded slowly, absorbing every word.