Requeim of Reverence

AUDEL EMPORIO, MAIN STREET, CITY OF TRITINE

I had gone to my apartment before starting my journey. I changed my clothes, wore my uniform, and got my handbag and hair done — Although I wasn't a really charming person myself, I did try my best to hide my drowsiness. It was awkward coming to the academy together. So, I left earlier than Maria. I always try my best to avoid rumors, heck I even hate bringing attention to myself.

As I approached the grand gates of the academy, my gaze landed on the massive plaque that gleamed under the morning sun.

"Institution of Melee Enhancement and Mana Refinement"—IMEMR.

I muttered the words under my breath, feeling their weight. One of the most prestigious universities in the country, its tuition alone could crush most families. Ours wasn't an exception.

No parents. We are 3 siblings. My older brother, James Emporio serves the National Army. He is a man with infinite potential. And I admire his hard work. After all, his wage pays for my tuition fees. My little sister, 16, however, wants to get into medicine so she is also working her best at the very same academy as well. This academy truly has all the required branches of the modern world.

As I stood lost in thought, a sudden, forceful slap landed on my shoulder.

"Audel! Need me some guidance, my dear friend!"

The familiar voice was enough to make me sigh. I turned to see Markov, my classmate—a boy my age with circular glasses, brownish hair, and eyes of deep crimson.

"Sorry, Markov. You can vent your frustration to someone else. I am sick myself," I shrugged my shoulders, trying to dismiss the boy.

But he persisted, "How'd you know, Audel? Did you use an artifact to read my mind or something?"

I rolled my eyes. "I don't need an artifact to know you got dumped by your sixth girlfriend." I crossed my arms. "You know what, pal? Just give it up."

"5th actually," He interrupted, "And says who? You are nerdier than anyone of us! The Nerd Community disapproves of your attitude-"

And just as he was chattering with himself, I made my way inside.

As I stepped inside, the stark contrast between the academy grounds and the bustling city outside hit me. The garden stretched endlessly on both sides, filled with trees of extinct species—donations from the Noble Houses.

And then, standing at the heart of it all, the academy itself—towering and magnificent, an architectural marvel reminiscent of ancient Greek palaces. White stone, grand pillars, intricate carvings. It was a place that exuded power, privilege, and a history far older than any of us.

LIBRARY

Inside the vast library, I found my solace. I felt like I owned the library as there was no one except me. Well, it was only 7 in the morning and I was still one hour before my class which explains the emptiness. Lately, my studies had been focused on Mana Theory and alternative energy sources. A small research project of mine, though nothing formal. Even so, I often found myself drifting to books about different cultures—ours included. Strangely enough, there were gaps in my understanding, pieces of common knowledge that felt... missing.

Hoping to fill that void, I reached for a book from the vast shelves. The moment my fingers touched the spine, I felt it—the presence of another person. Warm. Familiar.

"Audel?" A voice called from behind me tinged with surprise. "What are you doing here?" The girl asked, her eyebrows furrowed.

"Miss Boltaire, I could ask you the same question," I replied.

She huffed but didn't push further. Instead, she picked a book and, to my mild irritation, settled down at the same desk as me. I kept my eyes fixed on the pages, pretending to read, though I could feel the weight of her presence beside me. She was a year junior. Regardless, It wasn't random—she sat here deliberately. Is she testing me? Considering her background as one of the Nobles' offspring, I would rather avoid any unnecessary entanglements.

"So," She began, her gaze fixated on the book, "How's your private tuition going with Mr. Vestiron?"

Bingo.

I had figured she would know something. Now, I just needed to play this carefully.

"He is not home apparently. Why?" I asked, my gaze piercing through hers.

"I've heard that he has gotten into some conflicts with other nobles lately. Although, the Boltaire Family has no grudge against the man. But we always keep our ears open."

"I see. I think it shouldn't be a long-lasting issue. My Master will find a way to resolve the issue."

She leaned closer, "There's a guy on the back of the window. He might be a spy."

I had noticed that presence even before coming to the library. And I knew very well that I had been tracked since the moment I left the mansion.

"Wait what? What do you mean?" I acted confused anyway. A revelation came to me...I formulated a plan.

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