It was almost 8 a.m. when Alden reached the academy's main premises. The building before him was massive—far more grand than he had imagined. A wide stone staircase led up to the entrance, where students were gathering in clusters. He joined them, gazing up at the towering structure.
"Good morning, everyone!" a clear voice called out. "I'm Suze, a second-year student, and I've been assigned to give you a tour of the academy. I hope you'll cooperate. Let's begin."
She led the group through the massive entrance and into the first floor.
"This floor houses one of the most important places in the academy—our library."
Alden's breath caught as they stepped inside. The library was immense, its ceiling stretching several stories high, and books lined the endless shelves in intricate wooden cases. There was a quiet power in the air.
"This," Suze continued, "is the largest library in all of Ironhold Kingdom. You'll find knowledge here about everything—from ancient magics to pre-Great War civilizations. But remember, the contents of this library are restricted. You may not take any books outside the academy grounds without proper permission."
She pointed toward a sleek panel. "However, if you prefer, you can copy books into your Aether Band—but the data will only be accessible within the academy's perimeter."
Alden made a mental note. He already knew what he wanted to search for—but now wasn't the time.
"Some sections are restricted to professors and senior students," Suze added. "But don't worry—as you rise through the years, your access increases. And if you make it into the top ten students, you'll get full access."
They moved on to the upper floors.
"The second and third floors are where first-year classes are held. Second-year students occupy the fourth and fifth floors, and third-years use the sixth and seventh. Finally, the eighth floor contains your mess hall and an open garden where you'll have lunch."
She took them through different classrooms. "Your main subjects include Nature and Spirit Magic, Artifice and Technomancy, Magic Spells, and Tactical Combat."
Next, they stepped out into the academy's backyard, where the combat training grounds stretched out in all directions.
"This is where you'll attend practical combat and weaponry sessions. Each section is protected by invisible barriers so training remains uninterrupted. There's also an adjacent classroom for theoretical lectures and an armory, though real weapons require special permission."
The sheer size of the grounds dwarfed even the hostel's training facilities.
Then they moved to the battle arena—a vast stadium with a raised combat platform at its center and circular spectator stands all around.
Finally, Suze led them back to the ground floor of the main building, into a huge Common Hall. Rows of chairs were arranged before a podium. This was where seminars and major announcements were held.
Today was one such day.
Once all students had taken their seats, a group of lecturers entered. Each one carried themselves with discipline and command—fifth-stage warriors and mages, easily. But one figure stood out among them all.
Principal Cedric Drakensspire.
His reputation preceded him. A seven-star Royal Soldier who once served the King of Ironhold, Cedric had retired from military service to take the mantle of Principal. As he stepped up to the podium, the room fell silent.
He spoke with calm authority.
"I am your Principal. Remember this—each of you is the future of our kingdom. You were chosen not just for your talent, but for the potential we see in you to lead, protect, and elevate Ironhold."
He paused, letting his words weigh upon the room.
"Here, we will provide you with everything you need to become that person. All you must do is ask, strive, and push beyond your limits."
The students sat in reverent silence.
"At the end of each semester, your performance will be evaluated. Rankings will be posted, and those in the top ten will receive special privileges."
He looked over the sea of young faces.
"And by the end of your final year, if you maintain a rank within the top four, you will be granted admission into the most prestigious institutions in the world—places where only the most extraordinary are allowed to enter. These institutions cultivate legends."
The students' eyes burned with determination.
"So begin today. Train, study, compete—not just to win, but to become someone worthy of that legacy."
With that, Principal Drakensspire stepped down. The coronation was complete. Classes would begin the next day.
Alden remained seated for a moment longer, the weight of everything settling on his shoulders. But inside, he felt ready.
The journey had begun.