Capítulo 33: Lupusrica Knight Academy
The morning was as peaceful as usual. I started my day with Lily and Arianne. The sun had just begun to greet the world with its warm rays, filtering through the gaps in the windows. The aroma of tea brewed by Arianne filled the room, soothing my nerves as I prepared for my first day at Lupusrica Knight Academy.
Lily, as always, was full of morning energy. She eagerly helped Arianne prepare breakfast, her cheerful face making me feel a bit more relaxed.
"Sis El, are you ready for today?" Lily asked with her sweet smile.
I nodded, though a small twinge of doubt lingered in my mind. "Yes, I'm ready. It's just a bit strange to be going to a new place without both of you."
Arianne, pouring tea into cups, smiled understandingly. "You'll be just fine, Miss Ellora. Lupusrica might seem unfamiliar, but I'm sure you'll get used to it quickly."
After breakfast, I headed to my room to get ready. The academy uniform that arrived yesterday was neatly folded on the bed. I put it on slowly, feeling the soft yet sturdy fabric. The uniform fit me perfectly, giving off an elegant yet resilient vibe.
I glanced at the mirror, trying to assess my appearance. Lily entered the room, her eyes lighting up as she saw me in the uniform. "You look amazing, El."
Arianne followed, offering a proud smile. "Miss Ellora, I'm sure you'll be the center of attention at the academy in this uniform."
I smiled faintly. "Thank you both. This is indeed a new beginning, but I'll make sure to do well."
After making sure I had everything I needed, I stepped outside. Lily and Arianne stood at the door, waving goodbye. "Be careful on your way, El!" Lily called out.
The journey to Lupusrica Knight Academy felt like stepping into a new world.
I saw the academy standing tall in the heart of the Aurelius capital, a fortress of the future bridging the gap between reality and science fiction. Its grand structure, clad in gleaming black metal walls that reflected the sunlight with almost intimidating intensity, presented a strong yet beautiful impression, radiating an unshakable aura of power. Every corner of the academy was meticulously designed, reflecting a blend of advanced technology and futuristic aesthetics.
As I walked through the main gate guarded by statues of legendary knights, the royal atmosphere immediately enveloped me. Blue and purple neon lights illuminated the corridors, casting a soft glow that contrasted with the cold metal walls. Thick cables crisscrossed overhead, connecting various advanced machines embedded in the walls and floors. The faint hum of invisible technology added to the high-tech and slightly mysterious vibe of the place.
In the heart of the academy, a grand hall with a high ceiling welcomed students and visitors. The ceiling featured transparent panels showing the sky above, but these panels could also display various holograms and digital scenes, creating the illusion that the hall opened up to different worlds. In the center of the hall stood a massive statue of a legendary knight, intricately carved and adorned with futuristic armor that seemed to come alive under the neon lights.
Who that knight might be? i wondered.
Each classroom and training facility was equipped with cutting-edge technology. Holographic screens hovered in the air, displaying information and data accessible with just a wave of the hand. The training rooms were filled with battlefield simulators capable of recreating real combat scenarios with astonishing accuracy. There was even a special room designed for training in different gravity environments, providing a truly comprehensive and challenging training experience.
Additionally, the academy's building was decorated with royal art. Neon graffiti with futuristic themes depicted knights battling creatures that seemed straight out of a dream. Elegant robotic statues stood in the corners of the hallways, greeting students with their dim yet vigilant eyes.
The academy was not just a place for learning and training; it was a statement about the future. A place where the ancient traditions of knighthood were fused with advanced technology, creating an unparalleled environment in terms of training, aesthetics, and atmosphere. It was a place where the past and the future met, and where the most talented students were trained to become true knights who would shape the future of the Kingdom of Aurelius.
No wonder everyone in the Kingdom of Aurelius wanted to be a student here.
While I was busy admiring the artistic works and sophisticated robotic knight statues in the academy's courtyard, someone suddenly spoke to me.
He was accompanied by an elegant woman who looked very refined, their appearance markedly different from the people I had met so far, as if they had come from another continent or city.
"You there," the man said, wearing the same uniform as me—he seemed to be a senior.
"Yes?" I replied.
"Are you the new student? I haven't sensed your presence around the academy," the man said.
He closed his eyes? Can he not see? And he just mentioned sensing? Hmm. I didn't expect someone who couldn't see to be accepted into this academy.
"Yes, I'm the new student here. My name is Ellora Evernoir, and I'm a special student under Regalizen," I replied politely.
The woman beside him merely watched us with a gentle smile.
"Oh, pardon me. I'm Akira Yoshitsuki, a second-year student here, and this is my sister. Nice to meet you, Ellora."
"My name is Nadeshiko Yoshitsuki," she said, bowing slightly in my direction.
Yoshitsuki? Oh, so they're from a family of ancient heroes whose powers are not publicly known.
"So, you're the one who made it through to become a Regalizen commander, right? I heard you defeated all the participants at once? That's incredible!"
"Th-thank you, Senior Yoshitsuki."
"Oh, no need for such formality. Besides, we'll be friends from now on, so just call me Akira. Here, all students are equal, and no one is distinguished by rank."
His sister, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke up, "And you can call me Nadeshiko too."
"Uh, alright, Akira, Nadeshiko," I replied, feeling a bit awkward.
I felt slightly uneasy with the praise but continued to speak politely with these two. Akira, who was always guided by his sister, made the scene feel a bit unusual, but it made sense if he couldn't see and needed assistance everywhere.
We continued chatting casually, discussing the academy and the expectations that came with each step here. Akira seemed friendly and helpful, making me feel a little more at ease in this still unfamiliar environment.
Suddenly, a professor approached us. "Ellora Evernoir?"
I nodded, and the professor smiled. "You're expected in a special class. Come with me, and I'll take you there."
I turned to Akira and Nadeshiko, giving them a smile before following the professor. "See you later, Akira, Nadeshiko. Thanks for the chat."
Akira waved. "See you, Ellora. I hope your classes go smoothly!"
Nadeshiko simply inclined her head politely towards me.
As I followed the professor, he mentioned, "But before that, we'll head to the rector's office first, Ellora."
"Huh? Alright."
On the way to the rector's office, the professor remained silent. I trailed behind him, taking in the sights of the academy. Students were busily engaged in their activities—some testing new robot designs, others practicing various skills. The academy seemed to offer a myriad of activities, all seemingly supported by the kingdom's resources.
When we finally arrived at a large, metallic door that looked both sturdy and sophisticated, the professor knocked softly before opening it.
"Go ahead, Ellora. Rector Johan Einverse is waiting inside."
"Thank you," I replied.
I stepped into a spacious and grand room. The walls were made of large glass panels, offering a stunning view of the academy's futuristic skyline. In the center of the room was a large desk crafted from metal and wood, behind which sat a middle-aged man.
The man turned toward me and smiled. His face was friendly, with sharp eyes that conveyed intelligence and experience.
"Welcome, Ellora Evernoir. I'm Johan Einverse, the rector of Lupusrica Knight Academy."
I gave a brief bow. "Thank you, Rector Johan. It's an honor to be here."
Johan nodded and gestured for me to take a seat at the chair in front of his desk. Once I was seated, he continued, "I've heard a lot about you, Ellora. Your achievements in the Regalizen selection test are quite impressive. You've demonstrated extraordinary talent that will be very valuable here at the academy."
"Thank you, Rector. I'll do my best to excel here."
Johan smiled again. "That's exactly what we hope to see from every student here. Lupusrica is a place where talent meets opportunity. At the academy, you'll find various departments, each with its own focus."
He began explaining the different departments at Lupusrica.
"At Lupusrica Knight Academy, we have several departments. First is the Robotics Department, where students learn to design and build automated combat robots. They study advanced technology and integrate it with magical abilities to create formidable war machines. Then there's the Magic Development Department, which focuses on research and exploration of magic, including the search for lost ancient spells. This department attracts those interested in uncovering mysteries and powers that have never been known before."
I listened attentively, feeling a growing enthusiasm within me. Johan continued, "Additionally, there's the Pure Knight Department, where students train rigorously to enhance their physical strength and magical abilities. They are the frontline in defense and attack, with exceptional combat skills. Lastly, there's the Space Exploration Department, which researches and explores outer space, seeking out life beyond our planet and studying unimaginable cosmic phenomena."
After explaining, Johan looked at me meaningfully.
"Ellora, at Lupusrica, you'll have the freedom to explore your interests and talents. The academy is not bound by any royal authority and is not connected to political issues in Aurelius. We have our own authority, and our primary goal is to produce individuals who can bring about significant change, whether in technology, magic, or understanding the world and universe around us."
I pondered Johan's words. Lupusrica was more than just an academy; it was a place where I could truly pursue my dreams without being constrained by politics or royal authority.
"Thank you for the explanation, Rector Johan. I'm very excited to begin my journey here."
Johan nodded with satisfaction. "I'm confident you'll find your place here, Ellora. Remember, our doors are always open if you need guidance or direction. Welcome to Lupusrica."
As I listened to Rector Johan's explanation, my gaze shifted to a photo and ranking list of students displayed on the wall. Among them, I recognized several faces, such as Akira, Madalyn, Cestine, Gareth, Charlotte, and Chris, along with some unfamiliar faces. My eyes were drawn to the list, piquing Rector Johan's curiosity.
"That's the ranking list for combat performance at the academy, which is held twice per semester, or every three months. All students have the right to participate, and it's where everyone can evaluate their strengths and weaknesses," Johan explained.
"Combat performance? Is that some sort of battle?" I asked.
"Yes, exactly. Any student, regardless of their department, can challenge others in an official duel held every three months. The faculty will assess and rank each student based on their performance. Since Lupusrica is a knight academy, the ranking system here is based on combat ability," Johan elaborated.
It made sense. Since this was a specialized academy, rankings weren't solely based on academic potential but also on combat prowess.
"Thank you for the explanation, Rector Johan," I replied with a respectful nod.
"Not at all. If you have any issues or concerns while at the academy, feel free to come and talk to me."
With that, I stood and bowed once more before exiting the room. My heart and mind were now filled with anticipation and a renewed sense of excitement, along with a better understanding of Lupusrica Academy.
As I walked down the corridors of Lupusrica, my thoughts kept drifting back to the rankings I had seen earlier.
Akabane Yoshitsuki, ranked first. I had heard his name before, and seeing him as the top student made me even more curious. I knew he was blind, but the stories about his abilities always intrigued me. There must be something exceptionally special about him that puts him at the top.
In second place was Madalyn Naventhius. I wasn't surprised to see her high up, even though she was a rival in the selection. With her light magic and her powerful family background, she must have exceptional skills. However, seeing her in second place gave me a bit of reassurance, like there's hope that I might be able to match or even surpass her achievements.
Charlotte Vermillion Rosenfelt was in third place. I vividly remembered how her mirror magic could be both disorienting and formidable. Considering how swiftly she could control her magic, it wasn't surprising to see her ranked here. But I also knew that being in third place wasn't the end of the world—there was still plenty of room to grow and prove herself.
Next up were Gareth Rhanes in fourth place and Chris Ireshia in fifth. Gareth with his beast-shifting abilities and Chris with his summoning magic both had impressive powers. Their rankings showed they were serious contenders.
In sixth place was Cestine Van Helden. I knew her poison magic was extremely deadly. Even though her ranking wasn't as high as others, she was definitely someone not to be underestimated.
Seventh place went to Winda Putri Ayu. I hadn't heard much about her yet, but she seemed to be a strong competitor. Xiao Wei, in eighth place, and Eun Min Hwa in ninth were also names to watch out for, while Andrei Grigorev rounded out the list at tenth.
Thinking about these rankings gave me both a boost and a bit of pressure. I knew that rankings reflected one's abilities and achievements at the academy. As a special student from Regalizen, there were high expectations on me, and that could be quite daunting.
I smiled as I considered all this, deciding to shift my focus and get ready for my first day at Lupusrica Academy.
Estado de energía semanal
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