Once the young teachers concluded their introductions, an older gentleman with a mane of white hair stepped forward.
His presence was quiet yet commanding. A simple green woollen hanfu embraced his slender frame, its sleeves neat and unpretentious. Grey baggy pants swayed softly with his stride, while brown straw shoes pressed firmly against the floor, grounding him like the roots of an ancient tree. A plain white haori rested across his shoulders — more warmth than ornament — but on him, even simplicity carried a hint of understated elegance.
He paused beside the strange contraption at the centre of the hall and knelt with surprising ease, his movements smooth, unbothered by age. Square-framed glasses caught the light as he adjusted them, eyes sharp and observant, the kind of gaze that weighed and measured the world without judgment.
Though his aura radiated moderation, there was something deceptive about it — like a calm lake concealing an endless depth. The energy that leaked from his body was steady, yet hints of something immeasurable flickered beneath the surface, as if he deliberately cloaked a vast ocean behind the guise of a stream.
"Greetings, young disciples!" His voice rang warm and resonant, carrying a gentleness that made the hall lean forward. "I am Kunochi Sheercold, an Arcane Rank Snow Magus. Some call me Master Kunochi. Others… simply Grandpa Kunochi. For forty years, this academy has been my home, and its disciples my family."
A soft smile curved his lips. "Perhaps you have heard of some of my disciples. Lady Maya Flamefox, Edward Hamilton, Sakura Rosered, Katherine Dragonblade, Noelle Airheart, Even the late Emperor, Lord David Heavenstar, and our current ruler, Emperor Robert Dragonblade. Each of them once stood where you are standing now — a spark, waiting to be kindled."
Gasps rippled across the hall. Master Kunochi's expression remained calm, almost humble. "I have been fortunate to guide countless bright souls who became gems of this region. They call me the Master of Masters. But truthfully, it is you, the disciples, who have given me that title."
He straightened slightly, voice carrying more weight now. "I will teach you Regional Geography and Culture. For a mage, mastery of the land and its people can mean survival or failure. The path of magic is not walked with power alone, but with wisdom. It is difficult, yes, but also deeply rewarding." His eyes softened again, as though seeing each disciple individually. "And along that path, perhaps we will even laugh together."
When he finished, the hall buzzed like a hive awakened.
"Forty years? Incredible… he doesn't even look that old."
"Two Emperors! Can you imagine being taught by the same master as them?"
"His hanfu is so simple… yet it suits him perfectly."
"He truly is a Master of Masters. I wonder how many more gems he'll discover among us."
Shaun leaned forward, his eyes wide, sparks of admiration dancing in his gaze. If even Emperors trained under him… maybe I really can reach the top one day.
Natasha pressed her lips together, trying to appear composed, but her heart thumped in awe. To be taught by someone of his calibre… it feels like destiny brought me here.
Sabastian crossed his arms, but even he couldn't hide the grin tugging at his mouth. "Hah. Master of Masters, huh? Then we'd better make sure we don't disappoint him."
Excitement spread like fire through dry grass, each disciple secretly wondering if they might become the next name Kunochi would one day speak with pride.
**********
Once Master Kunochi concluded his introduction, he stepped back, allowing Maya to stand before the assembled disciples.
"Thank you for your splendid introductions, my esteemed colleagues. Your guidance serves as the foundation upon which these young souls will forge their strength."
Her gaze swept across all the disciples, letting her words settle in before continuing.
"Now, I will explain some of the academy's rules. Discipline and unwavering commitment are the cornerstones of this institution. To the new disciples, you stand at the threshold of a challenging yet rewarding journey."
"To earn the title of a Magus worthy of these hallowed halls, you must successfully navigate three years of rigorous study. Each year concludes with a comprehensive assessment: intellectual, spiritual, and physical. Each evaluation is designed to test your knowledge, your mastery over elements, and the resilience of your body."
"Fail any one of these assessments, and you must repeat the year. Fail three times across your tenure, and expulsion awaits. You will receive an Ineligible Magus Certificate, barring you from ever becoming a certified Magus."
"This is not a threat; it is reality. Magic is a privilege, earned through diligence, not lineage or luck. Embrace the challenge, learn from failures, and strive for excellence."
"The academy upholds strict discipline. Offensive magic is forbidden within these walls, except in controlled training. Skipping classes or venturing into the Forbidden Forest carries severe consequences. A formal guide will be provided. Dedicate yourselves to study, and guidance will follow."
"Most importantly, for centuries, only the elite lineage enjoyed the privilege of studying here. Seven years ago, the late Emperor David Heavenstar and Supreme Magus Gabriel Heavenstar changed that. Now, all classes—from Nobles to Commoners—study side by side. This academy is open to all, regardless of social standing."
"In my eyes, you are all disciples, equal in your pursuit of knowledge and power. Respect one another. Lineage matters not here; your potential is measured by effort, not birthright."
Maya's gaze briefly landed on Katherine, whose clenched teeth betrayed her disdain, before returning to the disciples.
"As disciples of this esteemed institution, you now inherit a legacy. A legacy built on the ideals of our late Emperor David Heavenstar, whose vision championed equality and justice."
"Anyone causing dispute or engaging in class-based discrimination will face immediate expulsion. No family name or status will shield you. Shed pride outside the academy."
Her eyes drifted subtly to Katherine, a silent challenge. Katherine's fingers tightened around her fan, her royal pride bristling.
"Maya… you insolent Commoner sympathizer," she whispered, venom clear in her tone.
"Yes, Lady Grandmaster," the disciples responded, nodding with enthusiasm.
"Aye. It feels as if Lord David Heavenstar himself speaks through her. What a welcome change."
"Lady Grandmaster Maya upholds his ideals. It's why we're here."
"A fair chance for everyone. This academy lives up to its reputation."
A ripple of excitement ran through the Commoners. Maya's words resonated, igniting hope. Shaun felt it, and Natasha, too, exhaled softly in relief.
"She's definitely… fairer than Lady Katherine. Things are changing," Shaun murmured.
"Don't compare them. Maya believes in everyone's potential. Some just can't see past their egos. With Maya, we actually have a chance," Natasha replied, her gaze steely, shoulders squared.
"And with that, I conclude my speech. Now, let us continue our journey together. I would like each of you to introduce yourselves—share your name and your dreams. We begin from the front; step forward one by one, and let your voices be heard." Maya's final words rang with authority, yet encouragement.
**********