As the disciples shifted in their seats, their soft murmurs created a gentle wave against the hall's vast silence. Then, movement rippled across the stage as a group of teachers entered. Instantly, the disciples rose to their feet in unison, a tide of respect sweeping through the gathering.
The teachers ascended the raised platform, taking their designated places to oversee the day's crucial events.
From among the rows of disciples, a striking young boy stepped forward. His hair was as white as freshly fallen snow, his eyes the startling blue of a clear sky. He wore a crisp white vest over a blue gii with white linings, padding secured by a black sash. Loose white pants and sturdy black shoes completed his attire.
Draped across his shoulders was a flowing white haori, embroidered with the character for discipline, fluttering lightly as he moved. Rectangular glasses framed his sharp gaze, lending him an air of scholarly elegance. With quiet confidence, the boy walked to the very front of the stage. His presence alone commanded silence.
A crystalline orb, shimmering with soft light, descended before him — the sound-amplifying crystal. It hovered patiently, waiting for his words. The boy inhaled deeply, then began:
"Good morning, everyone! Welcome to Silver Heaven Academy. My name is Akshay Himaira, and I serve as President of the Disciplinary Knights. On behalf of our esteemed Lady Grand Master, our dedicated teachers, and the tireless staff of this academy, I extend a warm welcome to our returning disciples — and an especially heartfelt welcome to our newcomers." His voice carried smoothly to every corner of the vast chamber.
"Each of you has arrived with dreams. Dreams of honing your magic, of becoming strong Magi, of shaping the future of our world. You all carry the potential for greatness. As President of the Disciplinary Knights, my request is simple: uphold the discipline that makes this academy exceptional. Together, let us elevate the reputation of Silver Heaven Academy — and of our entire Silver Heaven Region — across the world." He lifted a hand, eyes shining with conviction.
"Let our strength be known everywhere! I wish you all a thrilling, fulfilling year ahead. Now, without further ado, it is my honour to invite our Grand Master, Lady Maya Flamefox, to the stage."
He bowed deeply. Applause thundered through the hall as he stepped back. The stage lights dimmed slightly. Silence fell once more, anticipation heavy in the air.
From the teachers' row, a striking woman with flowing black hair rose. She wore a sleeveless black warrior hanfu with a white haori draped across her shoulders, her steps sharpened by knee-high black heels. Her slim yet curvaceous form commanded attention, but it was her piercing gaze — sharp and unyielding — that silenced the disciples like prey before a lioness.
She approached the sound crystal, her every movement deliberate, graceful, yet filled with power. The hall erupted in applause as she stepped into the spotlight. Raising her chin slightly, she began to speak in a firm, resonant voice:
"Good morning, disciples. Welcome to Silver Heaven Academy. My name is Maya Flamefox, and I hold the title of Grand Master of this institution," Her words were simple, but the weight behind them pressed into every heart.
"Nearly two centuries ago, this academy was established as a beacon of hope by the Elemental Gods. Born from the ashes of Ragnarok, its purpose has always been clear — to cultivate and train the next generation of magi, ensuring such devastation will never again consume our world." Her gaze swept across the hall.
"This academy is more than walls. It is heritage — a living memory of those who gave their lives in Ragnarok. They fought not for glory, but for the dawn of a new era. Now, it is your responsibility, as disciples of Silver Heaven Academy, to carry that torch forward." The hall was silent, every disciple hanging on her words.
"For centuries, this sanctuary flourished under the eyes of the Gods. When they departed, rulers and dynasties preserved its legacy. Empires have risen and crumbled, but this academy remains, unmoved, like a mountain against the tides of history. Today, it is safeguarded by the wisdom and might of the Three Supreme Mages." She paused briefly, her sharp eyes softening just a fraction.
"I once stood where you stand — young, filled with dreams. You all possess potential. But potential requires guidance and discipline. That is why we are here. Alongside me, countless teachers dedicate themselves to shaping your paths."
"Respect your parents. Obey your teachers. And most importantly — believe in yourselves and your dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. For those who dare believe can etch their names into history," Her voice rose, sharp as fire.
"I wish you all a prosperous and fulfilling year ahead," She lowered her hand.
Thunderous applause shook the summoning hall. Lady Maya bowed briefly, then turned and returned to her seat, her presence lingering even as she departed. Akshay stepped forward once more.
"Thank you, Lady Maya, for your inspiring words. Disciples, please proceed to your designated classrooms in an orderly fashion. After your introductions, you will be free to explore the academy grounds. That concludes the Welcome Ceremony."
"Knights, assist with the formations," He gestured to the rows of discople.
The sash-bearing disciples of the Disciplinary Knights stepped forward, their stern expressions enforcing order as they guided disciples towards the exits.
"Hey, Shaun, Natasha," Sabastian leaned toward them with a smile. "We should stick together. No point getting separated."
"Yeah, let's go," Shaun and Natasha said, standing with determination.
The three joined the stream of disciples, hearts pounding with anticipation as they moved toward their first true step into academy life.
**********
The welcome ceremony concluded, and grand doors of summoning hall swung open, releasing a tide of young disciples in two neatly arranged lines. Their hopeful faces ascended the grand staircase toward the chamber of knowledge and potential.
The eagle-eyed Disciplinary Knights maintained strict order, ensuring not a single step faltered from the prescribed path. Apprentice Batch 2, Shaun's new classroom on the first floor—a spacious chamber bathed in soft light from tall windows—awaited its eager occupants.
Shaun and his friends followed the flow, entering alongside the crowd. A sea of unfamiliar faces greeted them, each carrying its own anticipation and nervousness. The room hummed with the chatter of introductions and hushed excitement.
Swept up in the moment, Natasha and Sabastian raced ahead. Natasha claimed the third seat in the third row, exhaling in relief, while Sabastian settled into the second seat just in front of her.
"Shaun, over here!" Natasha called, her face lighting up as she waved him over.
Shaun moved toward her—but suddenly halted. His steps froze mid-stride. There, in the second seat of the front row, sat a lone figure. A wave of astonishment washed over him, his eyes widening with recognition.
Is that…? It's her… It's really her… and she's actually here.
She was the same beautiful girl from the courtyard, the one who stood beneath the cherry blossoms with the sorrow in her eyes. His breath hitched; an unspoken connection flickered across the crowded room. Shaun's heart pounded as he took a cautious step forward. A spark of resolve stirred within him.
I… I should talk to her. Now's my chance.
"The teachers are coming!" The sudden announcement snapped through the air. A disciple burst into the classroom, and the room erupted into frenzy as everyone scrambled for seats.
"Aw, man… maybe later then. Next time, for sure," Shaun muttered, forcing himself back toward Natasha.
Sliding into his seat beside her, he tried to focus on the moment, but the image of the girl lingered in his thoughts—her presence like an unanswered question in his heart. And deep down, Shaun felt a strange certainty:
This won't be the last time our paths cross.
**********