Chapter 8: The Letter from the Crown and the Chosen Maid
The morning sun cast soft light through the Windgrace estate, but today felt… different.
As Ken sipped his tea in the study, a royal messenger arrived at the gates—cloaked in the colors of the crown, holding a sealed scroll stamped with the emblem of the King.
Ken opened the letter slowly, and his eyes sharpened as he read the contents aloud to Caroline:
> *To Lord Ken Windgrace,
News of your son's unique crest has reached even the ears of the royal palace. In light of this, His Majesty the King extends a personal invitation for your son, Mickey Windgrace, to enroll in the prestigious* Aetherion Academy—the highest noble magical school in Mecatopia.
Your son's journey will be under strict protection. No harm shall befall him within these walls. Trust in the crown.
Sincerely,
The Royal Court of Mecatopia*
Caroline gasped, holding her hands to her mouth. "The King himself…"
Ken's eyes narrowed. "So they do know… but they're playing it safe."
---
Later that Evening
In Mickey's room, Ken sat across from his son, who was now five—small, but with eyes that glimmered with understanding.
"Mickey," Ken began, his tone gentle but firm. "It's time for you to start your true path. You'll be leaving home… and going to Aetherion Academy."
Mickey blinked. "Magic school?"
"Yes," Caroline said with a soft smile, though tears shimmered in her eyes. "The greatest in the kingdom. And you've been specially invited."
Mickey looked down. "So soon…"
Ken placed a hand on his head. "Before that, you'll need someone by your side. A companion. A maid who will serve and protect you—not just as a servant, but as family."
From the hallway, a girl stepped in.
She was slightly older than Mickey, maybe ten or eleven. She had short chestnut-brown hair, bright emerald eyes, and wore a clean but simple maid uniform.
"This is Elena," Ken introduced. "Her parents were dear friends of mine. She's quick, kind, and strong. I trust her with my life."
Elena bowed deeply. "Young master, I will protect you with everything I have."
Mickey stared at her for a moment, then gave a small nod. "Then… let's go together."
---
The Next Morning — Departure Day
The carriage was prepared. Bags loaded. The Windgrace crest flew beside the royal insignia on the coach.
Mickey stood at the entrance, holding his mother's hand tightly.
"I'll write letters," he whispered.
Caroline smiled tearfully. "You better. And eat your meals properly."
Ken knelt down. "Be strong. Trust no one too easily. And… if the crest calls to you again, listen."
Elena stood beside Mickey, her face calm but focused.
As the carriage began to roll forward, Mickey leaned out the window. "Goodbye, Mom! Dad!"
"Goodbye, my sweet baby!" Caroline waved, tears streaming.
"We'll meet again soon," Ken said quietly, eyes locked on the fading silhouette of the carriage.
And so, with a loyal maid by his side and the mysterious Crest of Eternia sealed upon his hand, Mickey set off toward Aetherion Academy—the first true step toward his fate in a world that had already started to whisper his name.