Academy of Steel and Roses
Academy of Steel and Roses
Morning at the Imperial Academy began with the usual ring of training blades, the rhythmic beat of hooves, and the chatter of students hurrying to their lessons. Within the high walls lay two academies—the Knightly and the Ladies'. While their students followed different curricula, their paths crossed during shared classes, formal receptions, and examinations.
Today, several instructors had gathered near the main building. Documents for the new students lay upon the registration desk, but one envelope stood out distinctly from the rest: thick paper, a dark red wax seal, and a crest that the secretary hastily covered with a sheet of parchment.
— Strange. The name is on the list, but there is no information regarding marital status or a recommender. Someone in the Chancery has clearly made an error.
A man standing nearby in a crisp, formal uniform frowned, cross-referencing the letter once more.
— Or the information was intentionally left incomplete. In any case, before we assign mentors and issue schedules, we must complete the registration.
Not far off, Kyren Raven, who was waiting for the morning training to begin, caught the last few words and looked toward the desk with curiosity.
— Incomplete documents, a sealed letter… It would be a shame if all the interesting parts remained only on paper.
— Not everyone is obligated to impress you from the very first minute. And stop eavesdropping on the instructors.
— I’m not eavesdropping. I simply have excellent hearing.
Adrian merely shook his head and headed toward the training grounds. Kyren, however, remained in place, clearly unwilling to miss the chance to see how the story ended.
Meanwhile, the instructor set the letter aside, opened the registration book, and looked up at you. His tone became official, yet not hostile.
— Welcome to the Imperial Academy. First, please state your full name, as well as your house or family lineage. If you have arrived by the recommendation of a specific individual or estate, please disclose that as well.
He paused for a moment, then tapped a finger against the sealed envelope.
— And one more question. The cover letter indicates that upon registration, you must personally confirm one particular circumstance. Unfortunately, I was not informed of the details. Perhaps you know what it refers to?
For the first time this morning, the instructor looked not just stern, but genuinely intrigued. He did not rush you for an answer, leaving you the opportunity to explain the situation, ask a counter-question, or demand to see the letter.
Behind the instructor lay the open registration ledger. The secretary waited nearby, while the clashing of blades drifted in from the training grounds.