2 Ch1: Welcome, Elistein Academy
Novaestrelle, the former world, where everyone lived in peace along with the gods. Thus, it was known as the "Land of the prosperous". However, due to the onslaught faced by the powerful miasma, it was destroyed. Before the last moments of its disappearance, the gods created another universe in which four worlds reside.
Terestra—the temple's residence,
Zrildawn—the incomplete land,
Heiltron—the forbidden land,
And Asteria—the world of mankind.
Mankind has been in residence in Asteria for thousands of years. They have lived in peace and had forgotten about the horrible past they suffered. Or so they thought...
A new conflict strikes. This time, the cause is unknown. 50 years ago, a strange phenomenon had appeared in Asteria and the world had fallen into debris. People started evolving into creatures unknown to man. 20 years later, it was confirmed that the unknown species were the ones who annihilated Novaestrelle, the Geluires.
People feared that one day; Asteria might suffer the same events as in the past. But there were some that stopped them. Several forces have stood up and defeated the Geluires one by one and thus, these renowned people were entitled: "The Royal Elites". The Geluires are still on track, but as the years go by, the Royal Elites have done everything they could to stop them.
Now, on the year 926 in the Common Era, a new batch of Elites shall rise.
**********
"You heard the announcement yesterday. The government recently published a statement to find new Elites that will stop the Geluires and find the root of this phenomenon once and for all. It had been fifty years since it started yet, we have found no clue on how to stop it. The minister had proposed that the students will be picked from different various schools to be assigned as royal Elites."
"But sir, students are too young. How will they be able to handle the monsters at their state?" One of the officials said. The other officials agreed as the news was too unreal for them.
Elites are traditionally formed through military and other respective sites. Hearing that the new heroes are to be young and innocent students, everyone has turned frantic.
"Do not worry about that." the leader implied. "They will be trained by one of our trusted officials. We have already asked for her voice and she said that she would be willing to help."
"But still, what if these kids fail? What will we do?"
"Did I not tell you to not worry about it?" He fixed his papers and gazed at the officials. "In fact, we have sent one of our top workers to assist the students. The candidate had recently been deported to the new school as of today. According to the records, younger generations tend to have more powerful Asters* than older generations. They're more vigorous and as of last year, the rates of these kids have increased, making them the best candidates for this job. I know everyone is concerned about this, but this is for Asteria. We must do what we can to secure the safety of our people."
The room was colored in silence. Unable to hear another word, the leader stood up and fixed his tie. "Now that there are no more questions, this meeting is officially over."
- - - - -
It was a bright, sunny day in Xiena, Orladon. A perfect day for the students to enjoy their first day of school, here on the place where the journey begins.
Elistein Academy, a school that raised the heroes of the century, The Royal Elites. It is where they are trained and build to follow one specific rule: "To ensure the safety of all people in Asteria".The students came from different parts of the world. Different races, different nationalities, different people. They are now set to live a journey they have never experienced before.
At that moment, a black car showed up beside the gates of the renowned school. The back door opened and revealed a girl in a black and white uniform. She grabbed her suitcase out of the car and closed the door.
"Good luck on your first day, Lady Dia." The driver said before driving away from her sight. She took a glance at the gate of the school before going in; unknown to what might happen next. Early by 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time, the lady searched for a place to take rest. She found a near bench and sat. On her suitcase, she grabbed a book and began to read.
Not long after, an unknown silhouette came in her direction. Her eyes silently moved at the figure that was busy looking at the flowers in the garden. The lady continues to observe her companion.
Her long blond hair almost reached the ground when she seats while smiling at the dancing flowers, it is as if you are staring at a princess from a fairy-tale. The companion seemed to have noticed a stare and turned her head beside to see the lady.
"Nice to meet you. Sorry if I bothered you, I just got intrigued by the flowers. Don't you think they look so lovely today?" She turned her eye at the bright middle mist camellias that were planted in front of them.
These flowers are very common in Orladon and is sometimes mistaken as a rose. Since then, the flower has been used for events such as valentines.
"It's alright." She said, continuing to read.
"You must be a transferee given by your uniform. I'm Kiarra from Elistein." She offered her hand, waiting for a response. The lady gave her a proper handshake.
"Elistein, a senior perhaps?" She asked Kiarra.
"Not really although in my case, I have the most experience in this school. Truthfully, I wanted to study at Gertria, by my aunt want me to finish at least high school here before I can transfer outside. Let's see, if I'm correct that uniform is from Northshire in Quiazill."
"Correct."
"I heard that only powerful officials are allowed to enter there, you must be of high status then." Kiarra continues talking to the girl for a while. "I forgot, I didn't ask for your name yet."
She closed her book and made contact with Kiarra. "Ylona*."
"Ylona. Your name is very bright. Say—" Kiarra was interrupted by the chime of the tower bell. It signals that it is time for the ceremony to start.
"It looks like we'll have to continue this later. We should get going now; the gymnasium hall is just a few walks away. I'll guide since you're new." The two ladies both stood up from their seat and walk their way to the school's gymnasium hall.
The gymnasium hall is very crowded as soon as they both entered. Students from all over the world have collided in one room and now, it was time for the ceremony to begin. Everyone was seated in their respective seats. In front of them was a huge stage. A woman in black made her way in the middle of the stage and carefully observed the crowd.
"Welcome, students from different parts of the globe. I am Alpha Eurhaile, the principal of Elistein Academy. It is very wonderful to meet you all and to have this opportunity to train the new generations of Royal Elites. I give my appreciation to all who accepted our invitation. Now that the current status of the world is still unknown, we have to do what it takes to end this crisis. As you may all know, Asteria has been suffering from an unknown phenomenon since 50 years ago. Geluires started invading places one by one and in a matter of time, they will multiply even more. Our job is to stop them from increasing and you, students inside this room will serve as the primary weapons for this task."
"The former Elites have already decided that this matter in the current time will be passed on to the next generation and for it to happen, we will pick several students to replace them. But to do that, we will hold a special event that will determine who will make it and who will not. The task is to be held by tomorrow noon."
The Royal Elites are known in Asteria as the highest rank an Official can ever have. They are respected and acknowledged by those who meet and know them. But of course, there are sacrifices made to fulfill this role. There are several Elites who survived, and there are those who did not. The amount of price they get is nothing compared to the lives that were lost in battle.
To be one is both an honor and a responsibility. Yet, you must be prepared to lose your life once you step into the battlefield.
"I expect that everyone is ready for this. I know that with your skills, this exam will be a breeze. Take it as a simple walk in the park. Remember, after we gather the selected students, the job will start immediately. We must do all that we can so that finally, this phenomenon will disperse from this world and the world will gain peace and harmony at last."
Alpha cleared her throat before continuing. "Since that this is everyone's first day, we will give you time to rest. I can see from everyone is tired from their trips and I know some of you are craving sleep. Before you can explore the campus, I suggest that you get your room numbers from the dormitory. The dormitory head will provide your keys and other extras you may need. If you need assistance, feel free to seek help from the student council, they will be available anytime during school hours. Other announcements will be held in our rooms after this. That is all for today. I hope everyone enjoys their time and I wish you all good luck for tomorrow."
It had been a few minutes since the ceremony ended and Ylona is already at the dormitory. It was crowded as soon as she went in since the other transferees are also inside. She went to the counter to receive the keys from the dorm lady.
Soon she found her room. Using the key, she unlocked the door and went inside. The room's design is very simple to the precise. Cream-painted walls, floor made from white marble, and grey and white furniture emphasize the room.
The room is composed of three other rooms: The bedroom, the living and dining room, and the bathroom. After finishing with her luggage, Ylona felt a vibration coming from her pocket--her phone was ringing. She answered the call and a woman's voice was heard.
[Outdoor cafeteria, 1 pm sharp. I'll be waiting.]
- - - - -
Ylona made it to the garden patio that was only a few walks away from the dormitory. Looking for a place to sit by, she spotted an empty garden table and sat on the chair.
"Welcome! Ms. Ylona Deaunville, correct?" A maid unknowingly appeared behind Ylona.
"Yes." She shortly replied.
"The principal will be coming shortly after a few minutes. Would like to have some refreshments while you wait?"
"Tea would do." Ylona answered. The maid bowed before leaving. Ylona observed the garden since there was nothing else to do other than to wait. The flowers are well-arranged and the colors are in sync. The bushes are perfectly trimmed and the fountain looks like it was newly painted.
Five minutes later, the maid arrived, holding a tray of tea pitcher and cups.
"Here you go, the school's finest tea. The principal was the one who suggested the flavor; I hope it is to your liking." She pours the tea into the cup as the lady grabs it and takes a sip. Just then, a familiar figure went up to them and welcomed herself.
"I hope I'm not late." She sat opposite Ylona who was drinking her tea. The maid placed another cup to Alpha and poured her tea.
"Thank you, Sarah," Alpha said.
"Would you like to add something else principal?" Sarah, the maid asked.
"Maybe a tart. The usual flavor, and make it two."
"Understood."
The two were left alone by the garden. Both were quiet for a brief moment before they proceed to the reason why they are together.
"Now then, should we start now?" Alpha asked.
Ylona, who finished her cup of tea, answered. "Spill it."
"It's only been three months since we last talked and you're treating me like a stranger, quite, aren't you?"
"Don't talk as if I don't have something else to do. I'm not a freeloader like the others. I am very busy myself."
"You can consider this a day-off. When Spade contacted me and told me you accepted, I felt very delightful just so you know." Alpha said.
"Your feelings don't concern me and it's not like I really wanted to go." Ylona informed. "Honestly, I don't see the point of coming here in the first place. They should've just finished this themselves. Needless to say, this is a waste of time."
"Oh, you know the government. They're too lazy to do this so diverging a pointless plan is the perfect plan."
"If you already think so, why do you still helped?"
Alpha sipped her tea and continued. "Maybe because it sounds interesting. I admit this plan might go on the blink, however; it's possible it might not. We will not know what the future holds; even I can't see it fully. But, a backup plan such as this could go well."
"Even if you say that, picking those who are younger is not that great of a plan. The fact that younger generations are considered more powerful won't change the point that they are more unstable. Younger Asters tend to be out of control, especially when the user cannot master it. In any case, it will take at least 5 years to completely improve and as of now, there's no time for five years."
Alpha couldn't help but agree. Over the years, younger generations are considered more powerful than older generations. But it still cannot change the proposition that they are very precarious. For decades, records of children from the age of 7-15 being confined in special facilities increase due to high rates of unstable asters.
"That is true. I did once inform them about it but ultimately refused the idea. I do have no choice since this project is very big; it's a waste to cancel it." Alpha stated. The maid came back, holding a tray of tarts. She placed it on both Alpha and Ylona and left.
"Did he bribe you?" Ylona asked.
"I don't think it like that." Alpha said, pouring tea into Ylona's cup. "You can say, it's like an agreement."
"And how special is this 'agreement' of yours? You're not the type of person to accept without anything in return." Ylona said back.
"You knew me so well. Of course, I would accept it as simple as that. Conditions must be made to keep the job."
"If I found out how stupid that condition is, I'm leaving right now." Ylona stoically said
"I know that and I promise I won't disappoint," Alpha said, grabbing a bite of the newly brought tart. "Speaking of which, how's at Northshire? It's been a while since I visited any changes?"
"Not much, same as always. Who knew you and the principal are sworn enemies? You used to say how much she adores you."
"Oh well, things change." Alpha blurted.
"You mean you just lied?" Ylona replied.
"Oh come on. She is one interesting foe. I feel delightful just seeing her woe."
"Sarcasm does not suit you at all." Ylona grabbed the fork and took a small portion of the tart.
"Good?" Alpha asked.
"Too sweet." Ylona replied, drinking her tea after.
"Believe it or not, it originated from Quiazill. I managed to find it after visiting a good café."
"Since when are you interested in cafés? As far as I know, you only like to go to bars." Ylona pointed the fork at Alpha.
"Who says I only drink wine? I also drink other beverages. I even found out that you can infuse tea to wine."
"When it comes to drinks, you sure do know a lot." Ylona commented sarcastically.
"Of course I do. Especia—" The conversation was cut off when a figure arrived behind Alpha. It's gaze burns through Alpha's back, but the woman doesn't mind. She was calm like it was nothing to be of concern.
"Marie! Lovely day isn't it." Alpha smiled, sipping the last drop in her cup.
Marie steadied her pose and fixed her glasses. "Principal Alpha, I know it's quite rude to interrupt but you realize you still have other things to do."
Marie Schutzengel is Alpha's assistant and is sometimes classified as her bodyguard. She had been serving Alpha for over 10 years ever since Alpha took over the school.
"You ditched out again?" Ylona stared at Alpha who was busy eating the tart.
"I prefer to call it a break." Alpha defended with a smile.
"Come on Alpha, you always do this. I am very sorry Ms. Dia, but I must borrow the principal for a while if that is alright." Marie said, asking for the girl's consent.
"Don't worry, I was about to leave myself." Ylona placed the cup on the coaster before standing up.
"So soon?" Alpha questioned.
"I have some business to take care of that I must do, a business I can't ditch out."
"I appreciated that comment a lot."
The wind blew far strong than usual, blowing off Ylona's hair. "I'm leaving. And for Pete's sake, finish your work. Sometimes I don't know how you got your position."
Alpha smiled and rested her chin on her palm. "Take care."
- - - - -
"Well that's her for sure. I often get kicked out of her office because my aunt couldn't focus on her work." Kiarra explained.
"That woman is always a pain in the neck." Ylona said.
"You seem so close with my aunt. I'm guessing you've known her for a very long time given by the way you talk about her."
"Close isn't a fitting word I may say."
They have reached their final destination, which is the school garden; different from the one Ylona was at earlier. This garden is located near the school museum, where all the school's prized possessions are held. "Well, this is our last stop. I hope the tour helped a lot. It's my first time so I'm not that good but if you need to ask sometimes don't bother coming to me. To tell you the truth, there are actually more hidden routes that no one knows yet. If you would like, we could explore it." Kiarra stated.
"It's alright. I don't really want to do this but that woman insisted." Ylona replied. Seconds later, a call came from Ylona's phone.
"I'll be heading back to the dorm. Call me if you need anything." Kiarra said, waving goodbye to Ylona. After Kiarra left, Ylona proceeded with the call.
[I'm informed that you're already at the school.]
"That's right. What is it that you need?"
[I'm going straight to the point...]
"But that's," Ylona replied, taken aback by what the caller informed.
[I know what you feel but we have no choice. Understand that you have other things to take care of inside the school. You can't just come back and forth all the time.]
Ylona and the caller went silent for a while before Ylona proceeded to answer. "I understand."
Chapter 2:
-Quest for the count
Guides (*):
1. Aster - is commonly known as the special abilities most beings had. They are commonly found in people from 7-60 years of age. They can be transferred to another person once the body of the current user is not able to handle them.
For example, Alpha's Aster is Forecast, meaning she can predict what could happen in the near future, however, she cannot see the whole scenario, it will only be in clips. (To be discussed in further chapters)
2. Ylona - the name Ylona means 'torch', 'light', 'bright', and 'shining' according to ancient Greek.
~Excel~
