Self-preservation is a great motivator.
He can't help but feel skeptical. Even if the system said they were telling the truth.
The night ended peacefully. People were scattered all over the guild building.
Desmond headed up to his room. His body felt heavy. It was like he was dragging a 600-pound boulder. He was barely managing to drag his feet. His shoes scrapped against the floor.
His room is at the end of the hall. The walk felt like a 100-mile journey.
He was finally able to collapse on the bed. Within minutes he was making his way through dream land.
The sunlight broke through the curtains. He could hear birds chirping outside his window. It is a peaceful morning after a chaotic night.
Remnants of battle can be seen everywhere. Howler blood stained the floor. Rubble from destroyed buildings and merchant stands littered the streets. The guild building had multiple holes in the roof and walls. Broken tables scattered throughout the building.
Everything in the guild was running like normal. Guild members were lined up in front of reception desk. They were accepting jobs like normal.
A woman walked into the building. Desmond watched as she approached the counter. He could tell from the reactions of the guild members the woman was someone of importance. The members of the guild let her through to the front of the line.
"I am here for Desmond Bloodheart." She said her tone filled with authority.
The reception pointed Desmond out without hesitation. As she approached, he could feel stomach knotting. With each step she took he sweat started to pour from his head. She reached into the pouch on her hip. From the pouch came an envelope. It's purple and has the same black seal. After a nervous gulp Desmond finally opened it.
[Desmond Bloodheart,
This letter is to inform you that the Entrance Ceremony has been moved up. You are required to report tomorrow. Failure to report will result in serve punishment.]
"Don't be late." The delivery woman said before turning around to leave.
"She could have at least said Hi." Desmond said to himself with a chuckle.
[Desmond, you have RP you can spend. I recommend you spend it on increasing your stats]
His hand moved through the air.
Strength +5-500RP
Agility +5-500RP
Intelligence +5-500RP
Appraisal Level: Silver-500RP
Link Level: Silver-500RP
Commander Level: Silver-500RP
[Upgrades Complete]
His vision got blurry. His breathing his labored. His heart racing. Desmond felt a surge of power.
The day was uneventful. He went out to explore the town.
People were mourning their lost loved ones. There were candles burning on the corners of streets. Songs were being sang. Prayers were lifted to the gods. The people who call SkyVill were rallying around each other.
In front of a pile of rubble he found a little boy. He had dried blood on his head. He cried for his mother. She had been killed during the attack. She tried to cover him when a howler attacked. Desmond didn't know what to do. All he could do was lift the young boy into his arms. He held him. He comforted him. The pain of losing a parent isn't something someone will ever get over.
The boy cried into Desmond's chest. The child gripped his shirt tightly. He would tighten his grip whenever Desmond tried to put him down. Desmond's heart hurt for the young boy.
Desmond took the boy back to the guild building. Jynx was standing around reception desk. She was talking someone, but her eyes locked on Desmond when he walked in. She saw the little boy holding Desmond's hand. Jynx walked over. On her face she wore a welcoming smile.
Desmond told Jynx the little boy's story. Her eyes fought back tears. She offered the little boy a hug. He rushed into her arms. Desmond understood the little boy was seeking comfort. Comfort that Desmond might not be able to provide.
Jynx was able to get him to open up more. The little boy's name is Lucas. His mother was the owner of the Midnight Rose Tavern.
Desmond left Lucas with Jynx. He returned to his room. Tomorrow is the big day. He finally starts his life at academy. There are million obstacles standing between him and his goal.
The night came and went.
The first light broke into the room. Desmond jumped out of bed. There was a box just outside his door. Inside the box was a purple blazer, black shirt, purple tie, and black pants. Underneath the clothes he found a small white card. He showered quickly.
He needs to make it on time. He said his goodbyes running out the guild building. The academy is on another island. He needs to make it to the teleportation gate. The streets were crowded even at this early hour. He weaved his through the winding streets. Finally, he made it to the teleportation gate.
There so many people around. Everyone had a card resembling his. Some were different colors though. It was his turn to use the gate. He presented the card at the gate.
"First Year academy student. Destination Academy Island" A voice said.
His mouth was wide open. The campus was remarkable. The high spires on every building were awe inspiring. Desmond couldn't help but admire the beautiful brick work.
He found the Grand Hall quickly. There were teachers and upperclassmen outside the hall. They were directing people to their seats. Desmond was placed on the second level of hall. He was in the center aisle and had a great view of the stage.
The stage was lined with chairs 7 in total. There was a floating microphone. Students piled into the massive hall. After a half hour the number of students coming in slowed. Teachers were sitting on the stage.
A man with curved horns and red fur approached the microphone. He was massive. He didn't have on a shirt. Desmond could see the scars across his chest. Those scars are a testament to his life on the battlefield.
"Welcome New Students. I'm Professor Valroc. I am one of the Military Arts instructors here. Some of you will have me some won't. However, my door is open to each and every one of you." Professor Valroc said.
Professor Valroc presence was commanding. His didn't speak loudly but when he spoke everyone listened. All the students' eyes were locked on the stage.
"Here at the Royal Magic Academy, you will get out what you put in. Your first semester will be spent learning battle tactics. Second semester you will charge with forming your own personal teams. Those will be the people you fight with in your dungeon exploration practical."
Professor Valroc returned to his seat.
A small dwarven woman approached the microphone. The microphone adjusted as if it sensed her presence.
"Hello young ones I'm Professor Mo. I'm your enchantments instructors. I will challenge you. I will ask you to the bounds of what you believe. I will not let you dwell on your failures. I will help celebrate all your success." Professor Mo said.
Professor Mo left the students feeling inspired.
Once again Desmond found himself locked in on the person speaking.
"The right enchantments can make or break your battle strategy. I am here to help you make the right decision."