The auditorium hums with the low murmur of conversation, a sea of students shifting in their seats as they await the start of orientation. The air is thick with anticipation, the scent of polished wood and fresh parchment mingling with the faint ozone tang of residual magic. I scan the room, my eyes adjusting to the dim lighting as professors take their positions on the raised stage at the front. The first arc of Act I will begin any moment now. And that moment comes now.
Headmaster Orthellius stands at the center, his presence commanding silence without a word. His gaze sweeps over the assembled students, lingering for a fraction of a second too long on me. A silent acknowledgment—or a warning. I suppress a shiver and focus on the stage.
"Welcome," his voice booms, resonating through the hall like a struck gong. "To the beginning of your journey at Elenos's Institute of Magical Academics."
The overhead lights dim further, and a mana projection flickers to life above the stage—a rotating emblem of the academy, the Mobius strip glowing in cerulean and gold.
"Today marks your formal induction into the world of arcane study. But let me be clear: this is not a place for the faint of heart. Here, you will be tested, challenged, and forged into something greater than you are now."
A murmur ripples through the crowd. Some students sit straighter, eyes alight with determination; others fidget, their nerves palpable.
The Headmaster continues, his tone measured. "You will be divided into your respective choice of studies based on your elemental affinities, academic strengths and personal traits. Your schedules will be delivered to your dormitories by this evening. Pay attention to them—there will be no leniency for tardiness or negligence."
"For the aspiring mages—you will delve into the art and science of magecraft, mastering both its theoretical foundations and its practical applications. From duels to daily life, your spells must be as precise as they are powerful. In tandem, you will study the history of our world, the mathematics that shape magical structure, and the scientific principles that govern phenomena."
"For the aspiring alchemists—You will explore the intricate theories behind potions, elixirs, and transmutations. Alongside this, how these creations interact with the living world and the chemistry that fuels your craft must become second nature—your intuition as sharp as your intellect."
"For the aspiring mana swordsmen—You will refine both mind and body through rigorous study of combat theory and swordplay. You will learn to read your foes, to adapt, and to strike with clarity and purpose. Beyond skill with the blade, you will strive toward mastery—the grace of a fencer, and the strength of a warrior."
"Finally, for the aspiring spirit tamers—You will learn to commune with the unseen, forging bonds with the spirits that dwell beyond the veil. Mastery will require more than power—it will demand empathy, intuition, and unwavering resolve. You will study the nature of spirits, the laws that govern their realm, and the rituals that bind them to our world. In time, your spirit companions will not merely follow your command—they will become your allies, your guardians, and your strength."
"Now," he gestures to the professors flanking him. "Your department heads will outline the expectations for your respective fields."
Professor Aldrick Voss steps forward first, his military bearing unmistakable even in academic robes. "Practical Magic and Spirit Taming," he announces, his voice rough but clear.
"There will be no room for error. Those who cannot keep up will be left behind. For the spirit tamer, I will subjugate any student who abuses their companions. Final."
His words are met with uneasy silence. Next, Archivist Orlan Dain takes the stage, his living parchment robe shifting as he speaks.
"Magical Theory and History are the foundations upon which all spells are built. Without understanding the past, you cannot hope to shape the future. I expect full understanding of your tomes by the end of the year"
One by one, the professors outline their disciplines—Mana Swordsmanship, Alchemical Studies, Mathematical Thaumaturgy, Biothaumic Studies, and Arcane Physics. The last three, the deviations from the original game, draw my attention the most.
Professor Tyrus Krane, a gaunt man with sharp features, speaks with a quiet intensity.
"Mathematical Thaumaturgy is the language of the universe. Those who master it will find the fabric of reality itself bending to their will. I expect you to be calculating in your craft."
Professor Ilsa Vexley, her voice smooth as silk, follows.
"Biothaumic Studies explores the intersection of magic and life. The body is a canvas, and with the right knowledge, you can exploit its very code. I hope that you enjoy the wonders that make us who we are."
Finally, Doctor Rennick Solvay, his goggles reflecting the holographic light, concludes.
"Arcane Physics bridges the gap between magic and the fundamental laws of existence. Question everything. Especially the laws you think you know. To not question is to not improve. Therefore, Question."
The presentations end, and the Headmaster returns to the center. "Thank you, Professors. As students, your first classes will begin tomorrow. We will be using today to familiarize yourselves with the campus and your peers. And most importantly, your MCAT—the Magical Classification Assessment Test"
"All students, please rise. We will now begin the MCAT. Once standing, please exit the auditorium and kindly line up in numerical order according to your student ID number."
The lights brighten, and the students begin to file out, their chatter rising as the tension begins to grow. Depending on your classification, your reputation will follow. I linger, observing the crowd.
The nobles are already drawing admirers, especially the heroines. Seraphyne holds court near the Ignis section, her fiery hair a beacon. Lysandra stands aloof, her gaze distant, while Leona leans against a pillar, her arms crossed as she watches the room with a smirk.
Kael is easy to spot—but his energy is completely off. Normally, he would be an awkward hunched boy but today he stands out amidst the sea of confident nobles as the most confident commoner.
And lastly… Ah!
My favorite tragedy. And, naturally, she's already surrounded—a constellation of admirers orbiting her light. A common girl, yes, but exceptional in her craft. A prodigy of spirit taming and alchemy, hailing from the House of Goran. Among the spirit tamers, she's regarded as the counterpart to Lysandra—their shining gem, just as untouchable, just as terrifying in her own quiet way.
Her name… No. Best not to say it. Not yet. Just to be safe.
"Temporal Anchor V2, inhabitant in line of sight"
Give it a few seconds and…
Name: Alyssa Hawthorne
Class: Unreadable, your difference is too great
Title: Shepherd of the Silent Chorus
Stats:
- Strength: 2-Star
- Vitality: Unreadable, your difference is too great
- Agility: 2-Star
- Intellect: 3-Star
- Stamina: 100%
Attributes:
Spiritual Sensitivity: The one attuned with building blocks of nature. She is hyper-sensitive to mana, being the perfect vessel for it. Therefore spirits are perceived in their full form by her.
The First Blessing of the World: The world has taken favor to Alyssa, her contracted spirits do not consume mana and an additional boost of 30% in resonance between spirits is granted.
Element Affinity:
Earth (Main Element): 2-Star
Mana Remaining: 450/450 MP
Yes, she remains unchanged—my favorite character from EAA. I've always connected with her, seeing so much of myself in her struggles. But it's her tragic demise that lingers, a wound that never quite heals. Alyssa Hawthorne: the game's most overlooked tragedy overshadowed by the death of the noble in Act II of the story.
It's wonderful to see her here—alive, real, close enough to touch. But I can't let myself get attached. No matter how much I wish otherwise, her fate was sealed long ago. In EAA, no one who truly understood the story ever found a way to save her. And after all this time… I don't think anyone ever will.
With that, the students begin migrating to the examination hall, the training grounds.