Two years had passed, and Ravenna had been transformed in ways both profound and subtle. The unrest that once gripped the kingdom had given way to a string of victories. The lost princes had been found, and Karasakal was finally captured, delivered to justice at last. Yet the most profound change was in Ethan himself. No longer just an ordinary boy, he had grown into the prince destined to shape the future of his kingdom.
The King and Queen had decided that Ethan must receive the finest education to prepare him for rulership. This path led him to the Heirs' Academy, a place where the heirs of twenty kingdoms converged to learn, train, and grow. Ethan had no choice but to accept this duty, though the thought of leaving his closest friends—Rowena, Willy, John, Wenona, and Raidne—weighed heavily on him. He knew, however, that this sacrifice was necessary for the future of both himself and his realm.
On a crisp October evening, beneath the silver glow of Ravenna's moonlit streets, Ethan met his friends one last time. The city lay quiet around them, stars glittering like scattered gems in the dark sky. Determination lined his face, but behind it lurked a shadow of sorrow.
"I have to go," he said, his voice steadying itself against the tremor within. "For the future of my family and my kingdom, I must take this path."
Rowena stepped closer, her voice soft yet resolute. "We know," she said. "We only want what's best for you, Ethan. But we will miss you terribly."
Willy patted Ethan's shoulder with a grin. "We know you'll achieve great things there. Just remember—we'll always be here for you."
John, Wenona, and Raidne shared the same silent understanding. They knew he had to leave, yet the act of acceptance did not make it any easier.
Ethan embraced each of his friends in turn. "You are my closest companions," he whispered. "Your support will carry me, always."
With farewells said, he felt a hollow ache in his chest as he began the journey. The carriage waiting for him marked the start of a long and challenging road to the Heirs' Academy.
The journey stretched across forests and mountains, valleys and rivers. Though the crisp air and the rough road tested his endurance, the weight of leaving behind his life and friends pressed on his heart even more. Yet the responsibility he bore toward his future kingdom kept his resolve firm.
At last, they reached Rothina, a bustling town where heirs from all the kingdoms congregated. With its broad squares, ancient stone buildings, and surrounding forests, the town exuded a quiet grandeur. People from every kingdom filled the streets: swordmasters, noble merchants, and royal envoys.
Ethan's pulse quickened. The carriage halted before a massive stone building at the town's heart. Here stood the Heirs' Academy, its towering walls and formidable gates demanding respect.
"We have arrived, my prince," the driver said with solemnity. "The Heirs' Academy. Here, your years will forge you into a ruler worthy of the crown."
Ethan drew a deep breath and stepped down. Each footfall along the stone path solidified his resolve. This was a turning point, not just for himself, but for all of Ravenna.
Before crossing the threshold, he cast one last glance back. His friends and old life were behind him, but ahead lay a new adventure, brimming with both challenge and opportunity.
The Academy's grand doors swung open to greet him, and with their opening, a new chapter of his life began—one that would shape him into the king he was meant to be.
As Ethan lingered near the carriage, lost in thought, a sudden clearing of a throat drew his attention. A tall, muscular man with dark skin and a black-and-white uniform approached.
"My name is Raden, sire. You must be Ethan, heir of Ravenna," the man said, his gaze sharp and unwavering.
"How did you know I was the heir of Ravenna?" Ethan asked, curiosity lacing his tone.
"Because all the other heirs have already arrived," Raden replied. "Do not worry. Classes begin tomorrow. My duty is to escort you to your quarters. Follow me."
Raden shouldered Ethan's luggage and led the way.
Torches lined the walls, casting flickering shadows, but no paintings adorned them. Ethan pondered the reason: with twenty kingdoms represented, whose portraits could they display? Perhaps there was a portrait hall somewhere hidden.
After climbing several flights of stairs, they reached Room Thirty. Raden placed the luggage inside and left Ethan alone to explore.
The room was spacious, bathed in light from two windows draped in crimson velvet. A polished oak bookshelf and study desk exuded elegance. The bed promised comfort, the wardrobe was vast, yet Ethan found himself missing his chamber back in Ravenna.
He made a silent vow: every weekend, he would write letters to his family and friends. After unpacking, he carefully hid the silver dagger he had been given at fifteen in a secret place.
Dinner reminded him it was time to join the rest of the students. He stepped into the corridor, joining the river of students streaming toward the dining hall. The sound of footsteps echoed off the walls, mingling with lively chatter.
At the hall's entrance, a small group gathered. As the doors opened, Ethan stepped inside. The dining hall was grand, its high ceilings and shining windows awe-inspiring. Long tables covered in fine linens were laden with a variety of food and drink, and students gathered in animated conversation around a massive fireplace.
Ethan's eyes fell on two students who seemed his age. He approached, deciding to introduce himself.
Harry, heir to the Kingdom of Nimara, radiated pride and confidence. Tall and lean, his athletic build complemented his sharp, well-defined features. Short dark brown hair framed a face with piercing green eyes, as if he could see straight through people. He wore the green and gold colors of Nimara, simple yet elegant. His warm smile invited trust.
Lydia, princess of Arcanis, carried herself with regal grace. Long, wavy brown hair fell to her waist, and her deep black eyes held quiet wisdom. She wore a flowing gown of blue and silver, shimmering with every subtle movement, giving her a quiet, magnetic presence. Her gentle smile eased those around her.
With a small, nervous smile, Ethan said, "Hello, I'm Ethan, from Ravenna. May I join you?"
Harry extended his hand warmly. "Welcome, Ethan. I'm Harry, heir of Nimara. This is Lydia, of Arcanis. Please, sit with us." Lydia nodded graciously, smiling in affirmation.
Ethan felt relief and gratitude. Together, over the course of dinner, they spoke of academy life, their lessons, and the customs of their kingdoms. Harry described Nimara's education system and landscapes, while Lydia shared tales of Arcanis' traditions.
The conversation carried late into the evening. Ethan realized that these new friends were both kind and wise, and a sense of belonging began to bloom.
When it was time to leave, Ethan reflected on the evening. His first encounter had been warm and reassuring, preparing him, perhaps more than he realized, for the challenges to come.