The next morning, as everyone gathered in the common area on the ground floor, the new students finally had the opportunity to introduce themselves to one another.

Leander smiled, his eyes alight with enthusiasm. "Spio, let me introduce you to the other two members of our group."

He gestured toward the first girl, whose fiery red eyes sparkled with vibrant energy. "This is Lucienne Pyre, but most people call her Lucy. She's a member of the Pyre clan and the granddaughter of the Headmistress."

Then, Leander turned his attention to the second girl. "And this is Araminta Greeny. She's quite shy, so I haven't spoken much with her, but Araminta is very close to Lucy. Those two are practically inseparable."

Lucienne nodded politely at Spio, while Araminta lowered her head bashfully, her cheeks tinged with pink. Spio began to feel a sense of belonging, as the bonds of friendship slowly formed with his new companions, setting the stage for a shared journey filled with exciting learning experiences and challenges at Luminara Academy.

Spio smiled warmly and introduced himself. "I'm Spio Reed. You can just call me Spio."

Araminta spoke softly, "Nice to meet you, Spio," and extended her hand, revealing a small green spider with legs resembling slender, leafy stems. "This is Lucas, my friend. He tends to wander off a lot, so if you see him around, please let me know. I'm afraid someone might harm him, not knowing he's with me."

Leander chuckled and patted Spio on the shoulder. "Introductions done! It's almost time for our first class. Let's get going."

Leander glanced around to ensure everyone was ready. The group made their way to the hallway wall at the end of the corridor, holding out their triangular keys. Stepping through the wall, they found themselves immediately outside the main hallway, where other students also appeared. Together, they proceeded towards the academy's central area.

Passing through the grand entrance doors and into the main hall, Spio and Leander were greeted by tiny creatures with pinkish skin and translucent wings shimmering under the light. These were mischievous yet charming Faeries. They flitted around the two boys with glittering wings, chirping cheerfully, "Are you new students?"

Spio and Leander nodded. The Faeries promptly handed each of them a class schedule.

Curious, Leander asked, "Why are Faeries here? I thought you usually lived deep in the forests."

One of the small Faeries fluttered forward, its wings sparkling, and answered in a sweet, clear voice, "We did live in the deep forests, but as humans expanded their territories, our forests began to shrink. Headmistress Pyre offered us and our kin a safe refuge here at Luminara to protect us from danger."

The Faerie continued, "In return for her kindness, we help the academy by supporting the teachers and students. We also serve as night watchers, keeping the academy safe after dark. So, if you see glowing lights flitting around at night, don't be scared."

Spio, still new to the magical world, listened attentively, marveling at the diverse roles the Faeries played within the academy.

He glanced at the schedule in his hand, noticing that classes at Luminara were structured into a morning session and an afternoon session, ending at 3 PM each day.

Class Schedule at Luminara Academy

Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Moon's Day

Morning: History 

Afternoon: Magic Control

Tiw's Day

Morning: Modern Magic Systems 

Afternoon: Applications of Magic

Woden's Day

Morning: Mystical Creatures

Afternoon: Free Period

Thor's Day

Morning: History

Afternoon: Magic Control

Frigg's Day

Morning: Modern Magic Systems

Afternoon: Applications of Magic

Saturn's Day

Morning: Free Period

Afternoon: Free Period

Sun's Day

Morning: Free Period

Afternoon: Free Period

During free periods, students at Luminara Academy can use the time to self-study, conduct research, or practice magic according to their needs.

The academy provides students with a relatively relaxed schedule, offering time to unwind and explore various aspects of the magical world. Each day, students have only two mandatory classes: one in the morning and another in the afternoon, with the day ending at 3:00 PM. This allows ample free time for extracurricular activities, socializing with friends, or enjoying the academy's serene environment.

In addition to the five core subjects, students have the option to enroll in additional courses if they wish to expand their knowledge or focus on particular areas of interest. These optional courses might include subjects such as Combat Magic, Alchemy, Research, and more.

This flexibility enables students to chart their own learning journey, develop skills, and explore personal interests in Luminara's diverse magical world.

Spio glanced at the schedule and noted that his first class was History. After memorizing the location of the classroom, he and Leander quickly made their way to the designated area. Upon entering, Spio noticed that the classroom was a cozy space, not overly large, accommodating around 30 students.

The room had a traditional layout, with rows of neatly arranged desks and chairs, creating an environment conducive to focusing on lectures. At the back of the room stood a large lectern where the professor would teach. Additionally, the walls were lined with bookshelves brimming with tomes on magical history and culture, providing students with valuable resources for their studies.

The atmosphere in the classroom was both formal and friendly, creating an ideal environment for studying and interaction between students and the professor.

Spio and Leander entered the history classroom and immediately realized they had become the center of attention. Other students turned to look at them with curious eyes, and whispers began to echo throughout the room.

"Who's that walking with Leander?" one student asked, turning to their friend. "Does anyone know which clan he's from?"

"I think he's from the Reed Clan, but I've never heard of it before," another replied. "Maybe it's one of those reclusive clan like Ophidian."

The murmurs continued, and Spio felt as if everyone was trying to decode his identity and origins. He remained calm, found a seat, and tried not to let the attention affect him.

Spio and Leander walked into the history classroom, found an empty desk, and quickly sat down. This was a mandatory subject, so both knew they needed to take it seriously. Once settled, Spio noticed the person sitting right next to him was Evangeline, the girl he had met during the house-sorting ceremony the previous day.

Evangeline smiled and greeted Spio. "Hello, Reed!" she said warmly.

Spio smiled back, feeling at ease having a familiar face nearby. "Hi, Morwen. I didn't expect to sit next to you."

Leander joined the conversation, and the three quickly exchanged their expectations for the class and discussed the topics the professor might teach. They were all eager for the lesson to begin and ready to learn.

Evangeline, with her unmistakable enthusiasm, started sharing with Spio and Leander about her experiences since arriving at Luminara. She talked about the Faerie, the teleportation magic, and the magical sensation of walking through walls.

"And then, you know, when I stepped through the wall, I felt like..." Evangeline said excitedly but suddenly stopped. She realized she had been talking too much and too fast about everything. Momentarily flustered, she raised her hand to cover her mouth.

Her eyes briefly showed a flicker of fear and shyness as she realized Spio might discover she was a grime. She didn't want to be looked down upon or underestimated because of the novelty of her experiences. She glanced nervously at Spio and Leander, her gaze full of unease.

Spio, who had been listening to Evangeline speak, noticed her sudden silence. Surprised, he asked, "Is something wrong?" Evangeline looked around and saw the curiosity in Spio's eyes. She replied hesitantly, "Oh, it's nothing. It's just that... many people tend to be quite judgmental when they find out I'm a grime."

Spio furrowed his brows, puzzled. "What about being a grime? Does it matter that much?" He couldn't understand why anyone would judge Evangeline for this, and in truth, he wasn't familiar with the prejudices within the magical world.

Leander quickly chimed in, "Looks like you don't know, Spio. I've grown up surrounded by people like that. My family's full of them—those who think grimes are beneath them and see themselves as superior to everyone else. No clue where they got that idea from, honestly."

"You grew up in a family like that?" Spio asked after hearing Leander's explanation. "Then how come you seem so different from the people in your family?"

Leander grinned and replied, "Oh, I used to sneak out and play all the time! I met so many kind people out there, and over time, it changed me. They even gave me money to buy food, and I swear, the food outside tastes so much better than the stuff I had to eat at home."

Evangeline's face lit up with joy, her smile bright and genuine. Listening to the conversation, she felt relieved and happy to be around people who didn't judge her for being a grime.

However, before she could respond, the classroom door opened, drawing everyone's attention. A woman entered, her presence commanding yet approachable. It was Professor Windstrider, the instructor for history. She carried an air of seriousness tempered with friendliness, ready to begin her lesson.

"Good morning, class," the professor began warmly, her gaze sweeping across the students with a welcoming smile. "As I mentioned yesterday, I'll be guiding you through the study of history for the next three years here at Luminara."

"Now, let's begin our first lesson," she continued, her voice calm but laced with enthusiasm. "We'll start at the very beginning—the formation of the magical world. Pay close attention because what you learn today might just show up on your final exams."

Professor Windstrider raised her hand, channeling her energy to create vivid, animated images to accompany her lecture.

"Now let's start, more than 7 million years ago, the world was still a primitive world ruled by ancient mystical creatures. And no one knows when humans began to appear, at that time, they were very weak before the mighty nature, but this also made some intelligent mystical creatures feel pity and decided to protect humans for thousands of years. Thanks to that protection, more than 5500 years ago, humans were able to reveal their gifts, intelligence and curiosity, which helped humans develop rapidly, forming different cultures and gradually spreading all over the world. The bond between humans and creatures at this time also gradually became close and that peace continued for a long time.."

She paused, and the images shifted to depict a fiery impact. "But one day, a foreign object collided with Earth, causing massive destruction and wiping out many species. A man named Sil and his companion, a mystical creature, were drawn by curiosity to seek its origin. They found the object, and when Sil and his companion touched it, a profound connection was formed. This connection granted Sil a power that today we call the Magical Vein, the source of magical energy for sorcerers. The bond also endowed Sil with a portion of his companion's unique abilities."

The professor's tone grew more intense. "Sil returned home and was hailed as a king. Using his newfound power, he ushered in an unprecedented era of development. News of his strength spread, and soon, the source of his power could no longer remain hidden.

... As more people gained mystical abilities, greed consumed them. Wars erupted over control of the object, escalating into massive conflicts. On the day Sil disappeared, the world descended into chaos, with factions forming and fighting each other. The wars caused the extinction of many species."

The scene shifted again, now depicting four majestic creatures. "To prevent annihilation, four legendary beings intervened. The Dragon, Phoenix, Kraken, and Basilisk took the object and bestowed their powers upon four chosen clans. These clans formed the foundation of the magical world we know today."

The Dracarys Clan, granted the ferocious fire and immense strength of the Dragon.The Tidalbane Clan, blessed by the Kraken, bonded with the seas and known for their resonating power.The Pyre Clan, embodying the Phoenix's indomitable vitality and eternal flame.The Ophidian Clan, mystically connected to the Basilisk, wielding the power of illusions and mind control.

"With their combined strength, the four clans allied with others to combat dark forces. Their unity and power eventually ended the wars, driving defeated factions into hiding. This pivotal event is what we now call the War of Origin."

At that moment, Evangeline raised her hand. "Professor, what exactly was that object?"

Professor Windstrider's expression softened as she turned to Evangeline. "No one knows for sure," she replied. "Fearing its immense power, the four clans entrusted it to another mighty mystical creature for safekeeping. Records about the object and its guardian now rest solely with the four clans, and they have likely hidden it well."

After this, the professor continued with more historical details about the clans until the thunderous sound of the school bell signaled the end of the lesson. Smiling warmly, she concluded, "Thank you all for listening today. I hope this session provided you with valuable insights."

Spio, Leander, and Evangeline walked into the dining hall of Luminara School, where the soft light streaming through the large windows filled the space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The long dining tables were arranged by house, with enough seats for their group to sit together.

Evangeline broke into a bright smile, turning to Spio and Leander. "You can call me Eva," she said, her eyes sparkling.

Leander nodded and smiled back. "Sure, Eva! You can call me Leander."

Spio also smiled and nodded. "Then you can call me Spio."

Spio, Leander, and Evangeline walked into the dining hall of Luminara School, where the soft light streaming through the large windows filled the space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The long dining tables were arranged by house, with enough seats for their group to sit together.

Evangeline broke into a bright smile, turning to Spio and Leander. "You can call me Eva," she said, her eyes sparkling with joy.

Leander nodded and smiled back. "Sure, Eva! You can call me Leander."

Spio also smiled and nodded. "Then you can call me Spio."

The three of them moved towards the self-service area. Leander searched for his favorite dish but couldn't find it, so he turned to ask the school's chef for help. A middle-aged woman, plump and with a kind, warm expression, appeared with a smile.

"What would you like to eat?" she asked, her eyes bright with kindness.

Leander smiled and replied, "Could you make me a burger and fries? I never get to eat things like that at home."

The chef smiled at the simple request and, with a wave of her wand, the pieces of meat and fries flew up and landed in the frying pan. She stood still, gently guiding the ingredients, and within moments, a large burger and a serving of hot, fragrant fries appeared on Leander's tray.

Spio and Eva stared in awe at the effortless magic used to prepare the meal. They both looked at the burger and fries on Leander's tray and then turned to the chef with wide eyes of amazement.

"That's incredible!" Evangeline exclaimed, unable to hide her excitement. "Magic can do that?"

Spio nodded in agreement. "It's amazing! I'm still not used to seeing magic being used so casually every day."

Leander chuckled. "I heard she's not just good at cooking. My mom and she were classmates at Luminara. After graduating, she traveled the world to pursue her passion for cooking, and then she came back to work here."

Just then, a voice called out from behind them. "Excuse me, is anyone sitting here? Can I sit down?"

The group turned to see a tall, slender boy with tanned skin, brown hair, and green eyes standing there. It was Orion, the boy who had followed them in after Leander.

Evangeline smiled warmly and nodded. "Of course, feel free to sit!"

Orion smiled back, pulled out a chair, and sat down. "Thanks! I'm Orion Harkness."

Leander looked at him in surprise, his eyes lighting up. "Harkness? Your family has made so many amazing things for sorcerers. Even the toys I used to love as a kid were from your family! Although they were all confiscated by my parents."

Orion laughed. "Yes, my family has made a lot of things for wizards. I'm glad to hear you like our products!"

Leander leaned in playfully. "Do you take custom orders, Harkness?"

Orion raised an eyebrow. "Custom orders? What kind of order?"

Leander whispered into his ear, and immediately, Orion's eyes widened in surprise. "What? You want me to make a rune stone that can bypass the school's protection barrier? No way! I can't do that. Even if I could, I wouldn't want to break the school's rules. You could get expelled for sneaking out!"

It turned out that Leander wanted Orion to make a rune stone that would allow him to leave the school grounds. Having lived with his strict family for so long, Leander wanted to experience the outside world, but the school's protective barrier prevented anything—magic included—from going in or out.

Despite Orion's continued refusal, Leander's persistence eventually wore him down. 

"Come on, I won't let anyone find out. Who else, other than the Harkness family, could carve runes like those from Luminara?"

Orion sighed in defeat. "Alright, fine. I'll do it when I'm able to, but you have to keep it a secret. If my dad finds out, I'll be grounded for sure, or worse, expelled."

The four of them continued eating and chatting until the sound of a bell rang, signaling the start of their next class. Leander quickly stood up and said, "It's time! Let's go! The Magic Energy Control class is waiting for us!"

Spio, Evangeline, and Orion nodded in agreement, quickly gathering their trays and leaving the dining hall. Together, they walked down the corridor, making their way to the classroom.

When they reached the room listed on their schedule, they opened the door, and the sight inside left them speechless.

The classroom for the Magic Control class was enchanting and full of potential. Shelves lined the walls, filled with shimmering glass orbs. Each transparent orb contained a small golden sphere floating gently in the center, surrounded by intricate, magical patterns.

The glass orbs glowed softly in the light, creating a breathtaking scene. Inside the golden spheres, magical rays flickered delicately, reflecting light in multiple directions. The sight gave off a magical, almost otherworldly vibe.

An elderly man entered the room, moving slowly yet confidently. His silver hair cascaded naturally down his shoulders, adding to his majestic and free-spirited appearance. He wore a long robe in a traditional style, yet his outfit still carried a modern flair in the way it was arranged.

As he walked to the front of the class, all eyes turned to him. He smiled warmly, his eyes radiating wisdom and kindness. He stood firmly at the podium, scanning the class as if observing each student with great care.

"Welcome to the Magic Energy Control class," the professor began, his voice warm and full of charisma. "I am Alaric Whittaker, and I will be guiding you on your journey to explore the source of magical energy and learn how to control your powers."

The professor paused for a moment, scanning the room to gauge the students' reactions. He smiled as he noticed the excitement and curiosity on their faces.

"I hope you will find joy and enthusiasm in this subject. Be ready to challenge yourselves and discover your true potential. This class is crucial because I will teach you how to control your strength. Mastering this control will not only make casting spells easier, but it will also allow you to harness and develop the magical energy within your own body. Now, let's begin our first lesson."

Professor Whittaker stood at the podium, his sharp eyes gleaming with warmth, and his smile reassuring. He drew his wand from his cloak, raised it high.

Immediately, more than twenty glass orbs gently lifted off the shelves, floating gracefully in the air. The students watched in awe as the orbs moved in a rhythmic pattern, each one finding its way to hover in front of each student.

"The orbs in front of you are called Venquil," Professor Whittaker explained enthusiastically, "There are various types of Venquil, each created for different purposes, and the Venquil before you contains a core of golden threads, specifically designed for practicing the control of magical energy within your body when using spells."

He continued to watch the students closely, making sure everyone had their orb safely in front of them. Once all were ready, he instructed, "We'll start with a basic control exercise. Focus your mind and try to sense your inner power."

The professor glanced around the room before continuing, "Now, let's attempt the rune spell 'Raidho Ansuz' gently. Channel your energy from your body into the orb in front of you. The goal is to lift it into the air while simultaneously keeping the golden threads inside still, without allowing them to shake or move. Your aim is to keep it as stable as possible."

He paused for a moment, ensuring everyone understood. "Keeping the golden core still is a demonstration of your magical control, and while this is a basic skill, it is an incredibly important one for your magical studies."

As Spio cast the spell, he felt the energy surge through him for the first time. The moment the incantation finished, he could sense the flow of the world around him, guided by the chant, connecting with the energy flowing within his own body. However, it was too fast, too wild—like an untamed beast—and it was impossible to control. The more he tried to reign it in, the more the energy resisted, growing fiercer and wilder, leaving him helpless and unsure of what to do.

Meanwhile, Evangeline picked up her wand with a delighted expression, her face lighting up with excitement. She closed her eyes, focused, then opened them again and uttered, "Raidho Ansuz." The Venquil floated up gently, hovering in the air. The delicate golden threads inside began to spin slowly, aimless at first, but Evangeline concentrated, focusing all her mind on controlling them.

Gradually, her focus slowed the movement of the golden threads, and before long, they came to a complete stop. A wide smile spread across her face as she witnessed her success. According to the professor, it seemed she had a natural talent for controlling the energy within her body.

The whole class turned to look at Evangeline with expressions of surprise and admiration, though some eyes were filled with envy and jealousy. Her success on the first try had certainly caught the attention of Professor Whittaker. He smiled with approval and spoke up, his voice warm and encouraging:

"Impressive, Morwen! It's been a long time since I've seen a student stabilize the core of a Venquil and get it to stand still on their first attempt. Keep up the good work!"

His praise sent a wave of pride through Evangeline, though she remained modest, nodding in acknowledgment. Some of her classmates exchanged glances, clearly impressed by her talent but also, for a few, uncomfortable with the attention she had garnered.

Evangeline smiled brightly, clearly thrilled by the professor's praise. She glanced over at Leander, curious to see how he was doing. His Venquil also floated up into the air, but unlike hers, the golden threads inside continued to twist and move, unable to settle.

Looking around the classroom, Evangeline noticed that most of the other students were facing the same challenge. This made her feel proud of her success and fueled her desire to keep improving. However, when her gaze shifted to Spio, she noticed a look of panic on his face. Her attention snapped to his Venquil, and she was shocked to see the golden threads spinning at an incredible speed, no longer floating gently but now forming into a rapidly spinning golden ball.

The core inside the Venquil spun faster and faster, glowing brighter with each rotation. Evangeline could see the tension on Spio's face as he struggled to maintain control over the object. Clearly, he was having difficulty keeping the Venquil stable.

Laughter erupted from the rest of the class as they watched Spio's Venquil spin uncontrollably. The sight made Spio uncomfortable, causing him to inadvertently pour more energy into the ball.

"Stop!" Professor Whittaker's voice rang out sharply, but it seemed too late. The core inside the Venquil accelerated even further, causing the whole object to tremble violently. Blue lightning crackled within, and the golden threads were torn apart into fragments that fell gently within the sphere. The surface of the glass shell began to crack with a loud, unsettling sound, and the entire class fell silent, watching in awe and concern as the Venquil disintegrated before their eyes.

Professor Whittaker walked over and gently waved his wand. The shattered pieces of the Venquil orb flew into the air and automatically reassembled as if nothing had happened. Spio felt a sense of relief as he saw the orb restored perfectly. He took a deep breath, telling himself he needed to try harder.

The professor looked at Spio with a soft smile, showing understanding. "It seems like you need more practice," he said in a calm but encouraging tone. "It's okay, we all go through the process of practicing to improve our abilities."

The whole class listened attentively, and Spio felt a little less tense, seeing that the professor wasn't scolding him.

Professor Whittaker turned to face the class, his expression serious but full of compassion. "You all should not mock Spio! Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. Maybe he doesn't have the natural talent for controlling his energy right away, but what's important is effort and persistence. We can all improve if we keep at it and don't give up."

He paused for a moment, scanning the room before continuing: "Now, you may borrow these Venquil orbs from me to practice with if you'd like. Regular practice will help you develop your magical control steadily and strongly. Remember, every skill takes time and effort to perfect."

The professor's words helped ease the tension in the room. The students began to feel more at ease, and Spio felt lighter. He knew the road ahead was still long, but at least now, he didn't feel alone in his efforts.

Professor Whittaker guided the students through the procedure for borrowing the Venquil orbs and reminded them to handle them carefully. "If anyone wants to borrow one, come see me after class. Remember to take good care of these orbs so they don't get damaged during your practice. While we can repair them, you should still respect these tools."

The lesson continued, with Evangeline focused on stabilizing her orb, but her mind wandered back to the moment when Professor Whittaker first distributed the Venquils. She remembered how all 29 orbs had simultaneously risen into the air, flying smoothly to each student without a single thread trembling, leaving her amazed at the professor's mastery.

As though sensing her thoughts, Professor Whittaker spoke up, "Once you've mastered stabilizing the core of your first orb, try to increase the number. The more orbs you can control, the better it will be for your magical training. The end-of-year exam will be based on how many orbs you can control, so make sure by the end of the year, you can control at least two cores of the Venquil."

Hearing this, Spio, whose orb was still spinning uncontrollably, grew more anxious about his future at the school. He tried to focus on controlling his energy to stabilize the glowing orb, adjusting his magical energy with each attempt, determined to succeed. But as he practiced, the distant sound of a drum startled him.

The drum's beat made him jump, and he realized it was the end of class. Quickly gathering his things, Spio hugged the glass orb tightly to his chest and went to Professor Whittaker to borrow an orb to practice with at home.

Spio walked out of the classroom, his mind in turmoil. He held the glass orb in his hand, knowing that he needed to practice more to improve his magical control. But as he passed by some students, he overheard whispers.

"Do you think Professor Greystone made a mistake? I heard the students he trains are the best," one student said to another as Spio walked past.

"Yeah! He just broke that orb. He can't even control his own energy," another replied, their tone skeptical.

"Someone from Greystone's group can't even do this? That's strange!" another voice added, clearly doubting him.

Spio overheard the gossip, feeling embarrassed, but he tried not to let it affect him. Still, he couldn't shake off the doubt creeping into his mind. Was he really good enough to be in the Guardian House?

He silently reassured himself, though, clenching the glass orb tightly. "I'll prove them wrong. I'll show everyone they were mistaken."

Leander woke up early in the morning, rubbing his eyes as he sat up. He was startled when he saw Spio still diligently practicing, wrapped up tightly in his blanket.

He stepped closer, watching his friend with a mixture of curiosity and concern. Spio didn't seem tired at all; instead, he appeared full of energy and engrossed.

As Leander looked at the glass orb, he realized it was still spinning rapidly in mid-air, showing no signs of slowing down. Leander sighed, feeling worried about Spio's excessive focus.

He whispered, "Spio, haven't you rested yet? Do you know it's already morning?"

Spio looked up, surprised. "It's morning already? I didn't notice the time. I was just trying to practice a little more. I didn't want to wake you up, so I wrapped myself in the blanket."

Leander sat down next to Spio, continuing to watch the orb floating in front of his friend. "Did you stay up all night practicing? Look at your Venquil, the core is still spinning really fast."

"I feel like it's slowing down a little, Leander. I want to control my power better. I don't want to be too weak," Spio replied earnestly.

Leander shook his head, sighing once more. "I understand you want to push yourself, but don't overdo it. You need to rest properly so you can keep up with your studies. Today's class is about the modern magical system, and it's really important."

Spio felt grateful for Leander's concern. "Thanks, Leander. I'll try to manage my time better and get more rest."

Leander nodded. "That's what you should do. Now, you should rest a bit. I'm going to grab breakfast. Want to come with me?"

Spio agreed, finally letting the orb fall gently and placing it back on the table. He realized he had been practicing all night without realizing it. Leander might not have noticed, but Spio knew the orb was spinning slower than yesterday, and that made him happy.

Spio and Leander stepped into the hallway of Luminara Academy just as the bell signaling the start of class rang. They quickly made their way toward the classroom, their steps quickening with excitement and anticipation. As they neared the classroom, they could hear the lively chatter coming from inside, signaling that the lesson was about to begin.

As soon as they entered the classroom, their attention was immediately drawn to the man sitting at the podium. The man had a distinguished appearance, with neatly styled black hair and an elegant outfit. When he stood and scanned the room, a sense of confidence radiated from his posture and gaze.

"Welcome to today's class," Professor Ravenscroft began, his voice deep and clear, immediately capturing the attention of the entire class. "I am Adrian Ravenscroft, your instructor for Modern Magic. In this course, we will explore and master the most advanced spells that the wizarding world is currently using."

Professor Ravenscroft continued, his tone serious yet carrying a genuine desire to inspire and share knowledge. "Here, we don't just learn magic; we learn how to apply it to everyday life. I hope you all will show dedication and focus throughout this course."

He swept his gaze over the room, observing each student with genuine interest. "Remember, discipline and perseverance are the keys to success in mastering magic. Don't hesitate to ask for help whenever you need it—I'm always here to assist."

The professor then moved on to explain the classroom rules, emphasizing the importance of following them. He set a serious yet motivating atmosphere, preparing the students for a challenging and exciting lesson.

As the lecture began, Ravenscroft stood tall, his sharp eyes scanning the room. He spoke confidently, "I'm sure you've all studied history, and you may have noticed that sorcerers in the past wielded unique powers of their own, right?"

He paused for a moment, giving the students time to reflect. "But over many generations, the descendants of these sorcerers gradually lost their special abilities. Why? Because they began to mingle with ordinary people."

Professor Ravenscroft stopped, stressing his point with a cold, piercing look. "These common people weakened our primal energy, rendering true sorcerers less powerful. This is a challenge we must confront."

Ravenscroft noticed a flicker of unease on some of the students' faces, including Evangeline's. He took a deep breath, steadying his emotions before continuing with a calmer tone.

"Though they lost their primal power, sorcerers still recognized the magical potential within themselves. Instead of giving up, they banded together and studied for thousands of years."

"These sorcerers worked tirelessly to create a new system of magic, a magical system that any sorcerer could tap into. Thanks to their patience and intellect, we now possess a treasure trove of magical knowledge and skills."

Professor Ravenscroft smiled with pride as he spoke of the achievements of past sorcerers, hoping the students would recognize the importance of studying and researching magic to continue their own journey.

Evangeline glanced quickly at Spio, her eyes filled with mixed emotions. "I don't feel comfortable with what Professor Ravenscroft said," she whispered to Spio, making sure her voice was soft enough for only him to hear.

Spio met her gaze, sensing her unease. He placed a hand on her shoulder to offer reassurance. "I understand. It's uncomfortable hearing things like that about your family," he said, trying to comfort her. "But I believe everyone has their own value, whether they're a wizard or not."

"Thank you, Spio. I really needed to hear that," she replied quietly and look at the hand put on her shoulder.

Noticing Evangeline's gaze, Spio awkwardly pulled his hand back.

While Evangeline and Spio were quietly conversing, Professor Ravenscroft suddenly heard their murmurs. He quickly turned toward them, his expression stern and focused.

Without saying a word, he raised his wand and struck it against Spio's desk, creating a loud, sharp sound that silenced the entire class.

"Didn't I just mention that talking during class is against the rules?" Professor Ravenscroft said, his voice firm and unwavering. "If you want to make progress in this subject, you need to pay attention to the lecture."

"Didn't you two hear me about the classroom rules? What are your names?" The professor's sharp gaze bore down on the two students.

"Spio, sir," Spio replied, doing his best to keep his composure.

"Evangeline Morwen," she added, her expression now serious.

Professor Ravenscroft studied them for a moment longer before turning back to the podium. He continued his lecture, making a conscious effort not to let the interruption disrupt the flow of his lesson, emphasizing the importance of focus and attention when studying magic.

Standing at the front of the class, Professor Ravenscroft's eyes gleamed with enthusiasm as he began the next part of his lecture. He swept his gaze across the room, ensuring that every student was fully engaged and listening attentively.

"Modern magic is built upon a system of symbols created by our predecessors," he began, his voice deep and commanding. "There are many different types of symbols used around the world, but what they all have in common is that they are keys to controlling and manipulating magical energy. When you focus your energy and either speak or write these symbols, it will influence both your own flow of energy and the flow of the world around you. This process is what allows you to harness it and create magic."

Professor Ravenscroft stood at the lectern, his wand in hand, ready to explain the structure of modern magic. His voice was authoritative and confident as he began:

"The spell 'Raidho Ansuz' that you have encountered in your lessons on magical energy control is a prime example of how ancient runes are combined to create new magic. This ancient script is common in our region, which is why the school has chosen it as the foundation for your studies. However, if your family uses a different magical language, that's perfectly fine. You can still use both systems without disrupting your personal flow of energy."

Professor Ravenscroft held his wand and moved slightly forward, demonstrating how to combine the ancient runes.

"When we combine 'Raidho' and 'Ansuz', we create a spell that allows us to move objects at will. This spell enables us to control the precise and fluid movement of an object in space. It is the power of combining ancient runes to create magic that is not only powerful but also practical for both life and study."

He scanned the classroom, noting the students' focused attention and curiosity. "By mastering the combination of these ancient runes, we open up a world of possibilities, enabling us to craft new and more effective spells."

Professor Ravenscroft, with a sharp gaze and a passion for magic, smiled mysteriously as he began the new experiment. He posed a challenge to the students.

"So, what if we combine 'Ansuz' and 'Gebo'?" he asked, his voice laced with challenge, eyes gleaming with delight at the students' curiosity.

He raised his wand and cast the incantation with precision and power: "Ansuz Gebo." Immediately, a student who had been dozing off suddenly jerked awake.

The student looked around in surprise, then spoke in a startled tone, "I'm sorry, Professor! I promise I won't sleep in class again. Please don't report this to the school."

The class fell silent, watching the unfolding scene. Professor Ravenscroft looked at the student with a satisfied expression before explaining.

"Ansuz Gebo is a spell that allows us to communicate through the mind. By combining these two runes, we gain the ability to transmit information directly into another person's mind, without the need for speech."

The professor's tone suddenly grew serious, and the classroom atmosphere shifted to one of intensity. He stared at each student with a stern look.

"However, I forbid you from experimenting with rune combinations on your own! This is extremely dangerous . Throughout the history of magic, many foolish sorcerers have lost their lives trying to create new spells without understanding the consequences."

He paused for a moment, allowing the students to grasp the gravity of his words. His gaze seemed to pierce through each student's face, delivering a clear message that this was not something to be taken lightly.

"Magic is not a game," the professor continued, his voice authoritative. "Mistakes in combining ancient runes can lead to disastrous consequences. I hope you will understand the importance of following the rules and using magic responsibly."

He concluded with a warning: "And remember, knowledge is power, but when misused, it can become a catastrophe. Focus on learning carefully and cautiously."

Professor Adrian Ravenscroft noticed the tension on his students' faces. He smiled gently and spoke in a softer tone, "Today, I will introduce you to a simple but practical spell for everyday life: the illumination spell."

The students in the class seemed visibly relieved upon hearing this. The illumination spell was one of the fundamental spells every wizard needed to master. Professor Ravenscroft continued:

"The incantation for the illumination spell is Kenaz Sowilo. By combining these two runes, we can create a small light source to brighten the surrounding area."

He paused briefly to let the information sink in, then raised his finger and uttered the incantation: "Kenaz Sowilo." Instantly, a gentle light radiated outward, illuminating the space around him.

"This spell is particularly useful in dimly lit environments or when performing magic that requires a clear view of your surroundings. You can adjust the intensity of the light by focusing your magical energy. Now, let's practice this spell without using wands. The incantation is Kenaz Sowilo. It's a basic spell, so I want you to channel your energy through your fingertips and feel the flow of magic through your body."

Professor Ravenscroft stepped back to his desk and observed the students as they eagerly began practicing. The room gradually brightened with soft, shimmering lights emanating from their fingertips. Some students produced faint glows, while others managed stronger beams of light. The classroom buzzed with energy, as flickering reflections danced across the walls and ceiling, creating a magical atmosphere.

"Very good," Professor Ravenscroft nodded, his sharp eyes gleaming with approval. "You've grasped the basics. Now, I'll show you just how versatile this spell can be."

He raised his hand, emitting a light similar to the students' efforts. But within moments, the light suddenly flared into a blinding beam, so intense that the entire room was bathed in radiant brilliance, forcing the students to shield their eyes.

"This is still the illumination spell," his authoritative yet composed voice resonated. "However, by compressing a significant amount of energy and releasing it all at once, the spell transforms into an explosive burst of light. In combat, this technique can dazzle enemies, giving you the opportunity to attack or retreat. But remember, controlling your energy is crucial. A lack of control could cause the spell to backfire."

Lowering his hand, the light gradually faded, restoring a tranquil ambiance to the classroom.

"Magic," Professor Ravenscroft began, pacing slowly toward the students, his voice calm yet firm, "is a tool of immense potential. But that potential is meaningless if you do not understand how to wield it. Magic is not just incantations or bursts of energy; it is a connection between your mind, will, and knowledge. Never underestimate it, and never misuse it. Always remember, magic serves its wielder, but it can also turn against you if mishandled."

The students regarded the professor with respect, sensing the depth of his wisdom and the gravity of his words. The classroom fell silent, save for the faint glimmers of light still flickering as the students continued their practice.

As Ravenscroft sat down to review the roster and personal details of this year's students, his gaze halted on a particularly intriguing name: Li Minghao.

Scanning the room, he spotted a slim yet agile young boy of Eastern descent. Minghao's face was bright and mature for his age, framed by neatly cropped black hair. His traditional school uniform was adorned with intricate spell motifs woven into the collar and sleeves.

Professor Ravenscroft seemed genuinely intrigued, having not encountered an Eastern sorcerers in a long time. After a moment of thought, he decided to call Minghao forward to demonstrate how Eastern sorcerers performed magic.

Ravenscroft smiled, a spark of curiosity in his eyes. "Minghao," his voice rang out, firm but inviting, "come forward, young man. I hear Eastern wizards have a unique approach to magic. Could you show us an example?"

Minghao hesitated briefly, a flicker of worry in his eyes, but he quickly composed himself. Rising from his seat, he walked to the front, carrying a small pouch at his side.

Bowing respectfully to Ravenscroft and the class, he carefully retrieved a golden talisman etched with vibrant red runes. The intricate designs seemed to glow under the light. Minghao took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and held the talisman to his chest as he began chanting in a steady voice:

"Heaven and Earth in harmony, flame and wind unite, summon the divine fire!"*Chinese

At the end of the incantation, he swiftly passed the talisman over a small candle flame on the desk. Instead of burning to ash, the talisman ignited with a brilliant glow. The flames leaped upward, transforming into a miniature phoenix of golden and red fire. The fiery bird flitted gracefully around the room, radiating a soothing warmth and enchanting light.

The class watched in awe, murmuring in amazement. Minghao stood calmly, seemingly accustomed to such curious stares.

Professor Ravenscroft approached, his eyes glinting with admiration. "An impressive demonstration," he remarked. "Do not underestimate talisman magic. It is highly stable, requires minimal energy, and allows for the preparation of multiple spells in advance. During wartime, talisman users were often the key to enduring prolonged battles."

Minghao bowed in gratitude, but Ravenscroft wasn't finished. Turning to the class, his gaze sharpened.

"Today's lesson," he declared, "is this: magic is not merely about strength but also artistry. Sometimes, the difference lies in how we channel our energy and intent into the spell, as Minghao did with his talisman."

As the class applauded Minghao's performance, he returned to his seat with quiet pride, though his eyes drifted to the window as if recalling distant advice from someone important.

When the bell rang, signaling the end of the lesson, students began packing up. Ravenscroft surveyed the room one last time before dismissing them with a reminder to review the day's material.

The afternoon's lesson on mythical creatures brought an unexpected twist. Instead of the usual professor, Professor Windstrider entered the classroom.

"Our regular professor for this subject is absent for personal reasons," she announced, "so today's session will be self-study. I've prepared materials and references to guide your research."

Each student was assigned a mythical creature to study, delving into its traits, abilities, and safe interaction methods. As Windstrider left the room, the students settled into focused silence, broken only by the rustling of pages and quiet discussions.

At the school cafeteria, Evangeline, Spio, Leander, and Orion sat together at a table, enjoying their dinner while engaging in lively conversation. The air buzzed with laughter as they shared their experiences of the day and planned for the next day's classes.

Suddenly, Lucienne Pyre and Araminta Green entered, their striking appearances immediately drawing attention. Noticing them, Leander waved cheerfully and stood to make introductions.

"Orion, Evangeline, this is Lucienne Pyre and Araminta Green. Lucy, Araminta, meet Orion Harkness and Evangeline Morwen," Leander said with an easygoing tone. 

The group exchanged friendly greetings. But before the atmosphere could settle into warmth, Lucienne, her expression serious and eyes scrutinizing, walked directly to Spio.

"And just who exactly are you to be admitted here?" Lucienne asked sharply, her voice cutting through the chatter and leaving the group in silence.

Spio froze, caught off guard by the question. He hesitated, unsure of what to say. A knot of confusion formed in his chest—he had never asked himself that question either. Why had he been chosen?

Lucienne crossed her arms, her tone blunt as she continued.
"I've been observing you for two days now, and honestly, I can't figure it out. You can't seem to control your own energy. In class, the way you look so clueless makes it seem like you've never heard the basics before. It's strange, to say the least."

She stepped closer, her gaze piercing as if trying to uncover his secrets.
"I thought you might come from some prominent family, so I snuck into the records room to check," Lucienne admitted, unapologetically suspicious. "But there's nothing in your file. Just your name. Do you understand how odd that is? Nothing at all! It's frustrating. How did Professor Greystone choose you? Why were you accepted into this school?"

The room seemed to freeze under the weight of her words. Nearby students began to take notice, adding to Spio's discomfort. He couldn't respond. In truth, the same questions echoed in his own mind, unanswered and unsettling.

Seeing Spio cornered, Leander decided to step in. He stood up and walked over to Lucienne, placing a hand on her shoulder. A faint chill began to radiate from him, silencing the onlookers.

"Lucienne, that's enough," Leander said, his voice calm but firm. "We'll be studying together for the next three years. There'll be plenty of time to get to know each other. There's no need to pressure Spio like this. You're acting like you're about to eat him alive."

Lucienne held his gaze for a moment, her expression unyielding. Finally, she clicked her tongue and stepped back, conceding to his intervention.
"Fine, Leander. But I'm keeping an eye on him," she muttered, her suspicion lingering in her sharp glance at Spio.

Spio let out a quiet breath of relief, grateful to Leander for pulling him out of the tense situation. Yet, deep inside, Lucienne's questions stirred unresolved doubts.

As the chill from Leander's magic dissipated, Spio found himself curious. He turned to Leander with a spark of interest.

"Leander, is your energy ice-based? That's so cool!"

Leander chuckled, his eyes glinting with humor.
"You didn't know? Almost everyone here knows about my family and abilities. But don't worry—you'll catch up soon enough."

Spio smiled faintly, though unease still churned within him. The questions Lucienne raised gnawed at his thoughts. Who am I really? And why am I here?