Chapter 3: Ceremony and First Class

After the monorail came to a stop and the doors opened with a soft hum, students began to disembark in a steady flow. Alder, however, took his time, watching curiously as others quickly dispersed. He followed his peers at a distance, letting them guide him through the intricate pathways of the academy until they reached a vast plaza.

The plaza was crowded with students, assembled in precise formations that reflected their year at the academy. Alder noticed that the second and third-year students wore identification badges on their uniforms, adorned with stars: two for sophomores and three for juniors. These badges served not only as a mark of their progress at the academy but also seemed to bestow a certain air of authority among the wearers.

First-year students, still without badges, grouped together less formally, their faces a mix of nervousness and excitement. Aware of his own special badge and wishing not to stand out more than necessary, Alder quickly removed the cyan badge that Oliver had given him before disembarking from the monorail. He carefully pocketed it, ensuring his presence wouldn't draw unwanted attention.

Cautiously, he headed towards the group of first-year students, seeking anonymity among his new peers. As he blended in with the crowd, Alder observed the surroundings intently, impressed by the grandeur of the academy and the vibrant energy filling the air. The plaza served as the throbbing heart of Gryphon Academy, a meeting point where traditions met new generations, and where his official journey in this new world would begin.

In the spacious plaza of Gryphon Academy, anticipation was palpable as hundreds of students waited in silence. From the central podium, an imposing figure rose, immediately capturing everyone's attention. This was Edmund Vallory, the director of the academy, a man of notable stature and inspiring presence. His silver-gray hair, impeccably combed back, contrasted with his dark blue velvet robe embroidered with golden threads that signified his high position. His blue eyes scanned the crowd, reflecting a welcoming and insightful glimmer.

With a voice that resonated across the plaza, Vallory began his speech: "Welcome, future leaders of the magical world, to Gryphon Academy! Today, as you cross these sacred thresholds, you embark on a journey that will transform not only your minds and bodies but also your spirits."

He paused, letting his words sink into every young spiritual contractor present. "This academy is not just a place of learning; it is a crucible where the greatest talents of the federation are forged. Here, among the ancient walls laden with history and under the guidance of the most illustrious masters, you will discover and develop your capabilities to limits you cannot currently imagine."

The director swept his gaze over the crowd, his tone filled with fervor and conviction. "At Gryphon, we will challenge you to overcome every obstacle, to face each trial with courage and determination. We invite you to delve into the study of runes, to master the art of spiritual control, to decipher the secrets of alchemy, and to communicate with creatures from worlds few have seen."

Vallory raised his hands as if trying to encompass the vast world of possibilities the academy offered. "Each of you has been chosen not just for your current abilities but for the unlimited potential you harbor. And here, at Gryphon, that potential will be nurtured until it blooms, guided by the wisdom and experience of our esteemed professors."

He paused, his gaze traveling over the rows of students before continuing with enthusiasm. "Allow me to introduce you to the leaders of our departments, each an expert in their field, who will be your mentors on this journey toward excellence."

"Let us begin with the Department of Magical Combat, where young spiritual contractors learn to master the arts of defense and attack. Leading this department, we have Professor Marcus Alvingham," Vallory announced. Marcus, a tall and robust man with an imposing presence, had an intense gaze that reflected years of battlefield experience. His dark hair was styled in a practical manner, and his movements displayed almost military precision.

"In the Department of Rune Research, we have the renowned Oliver Wycliffe," Vallory continued. Oliver, already known to some for his prestige, carried himself with distinguished poise, and his silver hair was neatly combed back. His attire, always impeccable, complemented his serious and meticulous demeanor.

"The Department of Magical Creature Studies is headed by Professor Elara Thornewood," he said, pointing to a strikingly beautiful woman. Elara, with her long blonde hair and green eyes, had a slender figure that contrasted with her energetic and passionate character about magical creatures. Her enchanting smile was well known for soothing even the most fearsome beasts.

"Leading the Department of Alchemy is Professor Cedric Darnell," he introduced a man with a neatly trimmed beard and glasses that reflected his meticulous attention to detail. Cedric was famed for his ability to transform raw materials into magical wonders, and his lab coat was always spotless, a testament to his precision

"The Department of General Guidance is led by Professor Helena Fairmont," Vallory presented another prominent figure. Helena was a radiant woman, with chestnut hair that fell in soft waves over her shoulders and a face that radiated intelligence and warmth. Her innate elegance inspired both respect and admiration.

"Finally, we have the Department of Artifacts and Enchantments, under the guidance of Professor Viktor Chen," he explained. Viktor, of Asian descent, stood out with his jet-black hair and intense gaze that promised depth and creativity in his work with magical artifacts.

Each professor, as they were named, nodded respectfully and with visible pride for their role, ready to inspire and mold the minds of the young contractors now filling the plaza, their faces lit by the promise of a new beginning at Gryphon Academy.

As Director Vallory concluded the presentation of the professors, his voice rose to capture everyone's attention once again. "These are the individuals who head each of our academic departments," he announced with a tone resonant with pride and authority. "Now, it is my honor to give the floor to the current president of our student council."

The crowd turned their gaze towards the side of the plaza, where a slender figure made her entrance. The young woman, embodying a blend of youth and maturity, walked with a grace that captured everyone's attention. Her presence was magnetic, with a demeanor that reflected confidence and an innate sense of leadership. Dressed in the academy's official uniform, which accentuated her curvaceous figure, she approached the podium with firm yet elegant steps.

Upon reaching the podium, she adjusted the microphone and introduced herself with a soft but firm voice. "Good morning everyone, my name is Isabella Gryphon, I am a third-year student and the current president of our student council." Her surname, Gryphon, resonated particularly in the space, evoking the majesty and spirit of the mythical creature that symbolizes the academy.

Isabella continued, her gentle tone contrasting with the solemnity of her message. "It is a privilege to welcome you to Gryphon Academy. As representatives of the student body, it is our commitment to ensure that each of you finds the necessary support to overcome your limits and reach your full potential. We are here to help you navigate the academic and personal challenges you will encounter along the way."

She paused, allowing her words to settle among the new students, and then added with a slight nod: "It is also our responsibility to remind you of the importance of adhering to school regulations. These are designed not only to maintain order but to ensure that we all have the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe and respectful environment."

Isabella looked around, her gaze sweeping over the faces of the students, seeking to connect with them not just as an authority but as a peer. "I am here to serve and guide you. Do not hesitate to reach out if you need help or just someone to talk to. Let's work together to make this year one of success and growth."

With an elegant gesture and a warm smile, Isabella concluded her speech, "Thank you for your attention and, once again, welcome to Gryphon." Her voice, full of confidence and kindness, left a lasting impression on the listeners, many of whom felt motivated and more secure about their new start at the academy.

As she stepped down from the podium, the murmur of enthusiastic conversations began to fill the plaza, and the students dispersed with a renewed sense of purpose and anticipation for what lay ahead in their academic lives.

After the presentation of the student council and a few words of encouragement and commitment from its leaders, Director Edmund Vallory took the microphone again, a smile of pride lighting up his face. The plaza was vibrant with the energy of the new students, all attentive and expectant.

"And now, to conclude our welcome ceremony," Vallory began with his resonant voice, which easily filled the open space of the plaza, "I have the honor of introducing a student who has not only demonstrated exceptional skill but has also achieved the highest score in our rigorous entrance examinations. She is an example of the type of dedication and excellence that Gryphon aims to cultivate in all our young spiritual contractors."

He paused, ensuring he had everyone's attention before continuing. "Please give a warm welcome to Helena Pyrewell, who will now share a few words with us."

Helena advanced with an air of confidence bordering on arrogance, her imposing presence undeniable despite her youth. Her slender figure and decisive walk were a statement in themselves. Dressed in the academy's uniform, which highlighted her distinguished demeanor, she stopped in front of the microphone, her challenging gaze scanning the crowd of new faces.

"Good afternoon," she began, her voice clear and powerful cutting through the air. "I am Helena Pyrewell, and I am here not only as the student with the highest entrance score but as living proof of the caliber this academy demands and recognizes. This is not a place for the faint-hearted or the indecisive; it is a battleground for the future leaders of the magical world."

She continued, her tone laden with an implicit challenge: "Here, steel is forged under the pressure of knowledge and competition. Each of you has been chosen because it is believed you can withstand that heat. I will be here to ensure that Gryphon does not lower its standards, and that all of us, especially the first-years, raise ours."

"Let us move forward together, with the firmness and tenacity expected of us. Not just meeting but exceeding expectations. That is what I promise to do and what I expect from each of you. Thank you."

Helena stepped back, her gaze still defiant, nodding briefly towards the director and the professors before returning to her place among the students. Her speech left a marked impression, inspiring both admiration

 and a palpable sense of challenge among her peers.

After the speeches from Helena Pyrewell and the professors, Director Edmund Vallory approached the microphone again to conclude the welcome ceremony. With a gesture of gratitude, he looked at the crowd of students and professors filling the plaza.

"I would like to thank everyone who has spoken today and all of you for being here. This is just the beginning of your journey at Gryphon Academy," Vallory started, his voice resonating with warmth and authority. "Each of you has received a message on your mobile device with information about your first general class. Please make sure to check it and head to your respective classrooms. I hope everyone can quickly adjust to the pace of the academy and enjoy your first day of classes."

After Director Vallory stepped down from the podium, the crowd began to disperse quickly, with the murmur of conversations and the sound of footsteps filling the air. As students moved in various directions, Alder checked his phone upon feeling a vibration. The message he received read: "Classroom 104 - First Year General Class."

Looking at the screen, Alder felt a twinge of nervousness. "Eón, look, it says I should go to Classroom 104," he commented, trying to mask his anxiety.

Eón, with a crafty look, fluttered a bit before settling back on Alder's shoulder. "Well, I hope you don't get lost before we get there. That would be an embarrassing start, wouldn't it?"

Alder let out a nervous laugh, thankful for Eón's attempt to lighten the mood. "I guess it would. At least it would make me quite memorable."

"Memorable for the wrong reasons," retorted Eón, with a teasing tone. "Come on, we better get moving before you end up being the last to arrive."

With a mix of excitement and slight apprehension, Alder joined the flow of new students heading to their classes. As they walked, the reality of his new life began to settle in, marking the start of an adventure filled with possibilities and challenges.

Alder, with his phone in hand and a look of evident concern, wandered through the long hallways of Gryphon Academy, trying to decipher the complex school map. Eón, his spirit companion in owl form, fluttered nearby, attempting to provide some encouragement to the situation.

"This makes no sense, Eón. Are you sure we're going the right way?" Alder murmured, his footsteps echoing in the vast corridor adorned with busts of illustrious spiritual contractors and tapestries narrating ancient magical battles.

"Mmm, yes, well, according to this we should... oh, look, that's the third garden we've passed! Maybe not," admitted Eón, sounding uncertain.

The corridors were unusually empty, as most students had already made it to class. Alder began to feel a mix of frustration and anxiety, worried about being late on his first day. Just when they were considering heading back to start again from the main entrance, a stern voice stopped them.

"Hey you, what do you think you're doing? Why aren't you in class?" The voice belonged to a young woman with short brown hair and an imposing stance. She wore the academy uniform but with a badge identifying members of the discipline committee: a badge with two golden stars, indicating she was in her second year.

Alder turned to face the figure of the girl. She was slim, with an athletic figure and well-defined curves. Despite her unimposing size, she exuded an authority that could not be ignored. Her gaze was direct and showed little patience.

"I'm... uh, lost," admitted Alder, scratching the back of his neck nervously.

The girl sighed, rolling her eyes. "Classic. Every year, some newbie gets lost on the first few days. Well, come with me. I'm Mira Stanwick, from the discipline committee and I'm in my second year. I'll take you to your classroom before you end up somewhere else by mistake."

Alder nodded gratefully and followed Mira through the corridors, with Eón trailing close behind. As they walked, Mira explained some of the school's landmarks and gave tips on how to navigate the extensive campus.

"Don't take the underground passages unless you know exactly where they go. And if you see a spirit without a human companion nearby, don't approach," Mira warned, making sure Alder was paying attention.

Finally, they arrived at the correct building, and Mira pointed to a classroom on the second floor. "Here it is. Classroom 104. And try not to get lost so much, okay? Gryphon is big, but you'll get used to it."

Alder thanked Mira and entered the classroom just in time, with Eón settling back on his shoulder. "Well, that was an adventure, huh?" Alder commented, trying to lighten his own nerves.

Eón, always ready to ease the tension, joked, "At least we know where the discipline committee is in case you ever want to join!"

With a laugh, Alder took his seat, ready to face his first day of classes at Gryphon Academy, a place full of challenges and, clearly, opportunities to get lost.

Alder took a deep breath before opening the door to Class B. As he entered, all eyes fixed on him, causing him to hesitate under the weight of so many gazes. Among the faces, he recognized Helena Pyrewell, whose crimson eyes shot him a look of outright disapproval, and Lucas, who gave him a conspiratorial smile.

The teacher, a young woman with a voluptuous figure and long blonde hair tied up in a high bun, stood in front of the class with a gentle yet clearly displeased expression. She wore the teacher's uniform with natural elegance, her fitted blouse and pencil skirt accentuating her figure without detracting from her professionalism.

"Alder, right?" she began, her voice sweet yet tinged with a slight reprimand. "I expected all students to be on time for the first class."

"I'm very sorry, Miss. I got lost on the way," Alder apologized, his voice barely a whisper as he felt heat rising to his cheeks.

The teacher nodded, showing understanding but with a hint of firmness. "Try not to let it happen again. Please, find a seat."

As Alder moved through the desks, he could hear soft giggles and whispers among the students. Helena continued to watch him with a raised eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by his clumsy entrance.

Just as Alder was wondering where to sit, Lucas gestured to a free spot beside him. "Here, buddy. Great way to make an impression on your first day," Lucas joked quietly, winking in a friendly manner that helped ease Alder's tension.

Grateful, Alder slid into the seat, feeling a slight relief at being next to someone familiar. From his spot, he could better observe the teacher as she introduced herself.

"I am Miss Emily Carter, and I will be in charge of Class B this year. I hope that, despite this small incident, we're all ready to learn and grow together at Gryphon."

With one last apologetic look towards Miss Carter, Alder focused on the materials she began to distribute, trying to put the embarrassing start behind him. Meanwhile, Eón, perched discreetly on the edge of the desk, watched everything with wide eyes, silently sharing his companion's embarrassment.

In the classroom filled with new students, Miss Carter, with her soft but clear voice, began to clarify the academic course structure at Gryphon Academy. Her gentle and somewhat shy demeanor contrasted with the seriousness of the moment as she explained the class system precisely.

"As first-year students," she started with an encouraging smile, "you have a structured schedule of mandatory classes that runs from 7 AM to 1 PM. These subjects include Mathematics, Science, History, and Language Arts, designed to provide you with a solid foundation in general education and essential knowledge for any spiritual contractor."

Lucas, leaning towards a visibly nervous Alder, whispered in a conspiratorial tone, "Sounds like high school, huh? But I hope with more action." Alder responded with a shy smile, still trying to absorb all the information.

"In addition to these fundamental classes," continued Miss Carter, "you will have the opportunity to enrich your education by choosing at least two specialized classes from different departments. These classes are held in specific auditoriums, each dedicated to a particular field of study, such as Magical Combat, Alchemy, or Rune Research."

Lucas looked at Alder and asked in a whisper, "So, what classes are you thinking of taking?" To which Alder replied, somewhat uncertainly, "The only one I know for sure I want to take is Introduction to Runics, for everything else, I'm completely lost." Lucas, smiling, suggested, "You should also try Magical Combat; it sounds exciting."

Miss Carter detailed the procedure while Alder and Lucas chatted discreetly. "The specialized classes are elective and are held in the afternoon, from 1:30 PM to 5 PM. This gives you the freedom to build your academic schedule around your mandatory classes, also allowing you to participate in club activities and other personal interests."

"It will be crucial that you manage your time effectively," she added with a more serious tone, "as autonomy and responsibility are key to your success at Gryphon."

As Alder nodded thoughtfully about how he would organize his time, Miss Carter concluded with a motivational note: "This is an opportunity for you to discover and develop your talents. I hope you make the most of the resources and opportunities Gryphon has to offer. Welcome to a year full of learning and growth!"

The room, filled with the murmurs of students planning their future schedules, reflected a mix of anticipation and excitement. Alder, feeling slightly overwhelmed but excited, immersed himself in the reality of his new academic environment, while Lucas, always ready for a new adventure, reassured him that it would be an amazing year.