The parents began to leave, their faces glowing with pride and relief.
"I can't believe he finally made it to the Academy," one of them said, voice trembling with joy. The courtyard echoed with laughter and chatter as families celebrated the futures their children were about to step into.
Five years of learning, trials, and discovery awaited this new group — a gathering of bright-eyed, hopeful children. None of them yet understood how quickly innocence would be tested.
Inside the administrative office, Allan McGregor, the Headmaster, stood by the window, watching the departing crowd.
"Darkness has returned," he murmured.
Professor Jane, one of the deputies, froze. "The prophecy… it's true, isn't it?"
"I'm afraid so," Allan replied quietly. His expression was grave, almost hollow. "The signs are all here."
Meanwhile, the first years were escorted into the grand hall — a massive chamber crowned with floating lanterns that shimmered with elemental light.
"This will be where you stay until tomorrow," one of the professors announced. "Then, you will be sorted into your Houses."
There were four of them — each bearing the name of a mage who had shaped the kingdom's history:
House of Payne, named after Lord William Payne, the fire mage who led the Knights to victory in the legendary defeat of Vosch's army during the Third War.
House of Fleming, in honor of Lord Lucas Fleming, a master of air who struck down Lord Derrick after his attempt to overthrow the king.
House of Silva, founded after Lord Hendrik Silva, a royal bloodline and once King of the land.
House of Veil, created to honor the commoner Elior Veil, who dared to petition for peasants and common-born children to study alongside nobles.
Tomorrow, the Sorting would begin. Most already knew where they belonged. The royals whispered confidently of House Silva; the commoners quietly awaited House Veil. The nobles, caught between the remaining two, could only wonder.
That night, the hall buzzed with excitement. Children of every background shared stories, laughter, and food. Friendships began, and rivalries quietly brewed.
But Axel stayed apart.
He sat by a window, staring into the dark horizon.
He couldn't stop thinking about his mother — or the man he called father.
What if he comes again?
The thought burned in his mind. He clenched his fists.
He needed power. Strength enough to protect her — and to end the fear that haunted their home.
The next morning arrived. The banners of each House shimmered above the crowd as names were called one by one. Cheers and applause filled the air.
When Axel's turn came, he walked to the podium.
"House of Veil!" the announcer declared.
Moments later, the hall fell silent as another name was called.
"Irys Spartan, House of Silva."
The four captains led the first years to their new houses, each house held so much history. They could only wonder what theirs will be.