One thing that started everything

Chapter 2: Abhivira Akademiya

Months had passed, and the lazy haze of summer had finally come to an end. The students of Nirvana prepared to return to school, and Abhivira Akademiya, the most prestigious institution of magic. Had opened its gates once more. The corridors buzzed with energy as the staff readied themselves for another year.

Among them, a man strode with a powerful, almost predatory grace. His tall, 6'5" frame commanded attention. Muscular, yet lean, Griffin's dark, piercing eyes carried a cold intensity, a reflection of years spent on the battlefield before he turned to teaching. His dark silver hair, cut short and spiked at the ends, framed his sharp features. His uniform—a black, military-style coat with silver accents—was pristine, buttoned with precision. A silver pocket watch dangled from his waistcoat, and in his hand, he carried a long, black cane with a raven-shaped silver head. Every step he took echoed through the polished stone floors, his heavy black boots creating an ominous rhythm.

Griffin's destination? The principal's office.

"You called for me, sir?" Griffin's voice was low, hoarse, like the growl of a beast kept in check. He stepped into the grand office, which was bathed in the soft, mystical light of enchanted candles.

The principal stood by the windows, his back turned. He was tall, nearly as tall as Griffin, his sleek silver hair perfectly combed back. His eyes, when they turned toward Griffin, glowed with a strange, hypnotic gold. He wore traditional, dark academic robes that shimmered with faint golden accents. They flowed around him, almost as if the fabric itself was alive, responding to his movements. Around his waist, a crimson sash was tied, and in his hand, he held a tall, ornate staff topped with a radiant golden orb. A mystical ring adorned his hand, its obsidian gem pulsing with an ethereal glow.

"Indeed I did, Griffin," the principal said, his voice as smooth as silk. "Come, have a seat."

Griffin lowered himself into a chair, his body tense, already for action. The principal poured tea, the scent of herbs and magic wafting between them. Griffin picked up the cup and blew the steam away before taking a sip.

"Change of plan," the principal said calmly, breaking the quiet. "Your new assignment is Class-7."

Griffin's eyes widened in disbelief, and before he could stop himself, he spat out his tea. He placed the empty cup down with a measured calm, though the tension in his muscles was evident. Pulling a napkin from his coat pocket, he wiped the mess from the table.

He took a deep breath, his voice steady but laced with disbelief. "Class-7 hasn't had any students for years. You're telling me that now, suddenly, there are students assigned to that class?"

The principal's expression remained impassive. He reached for a file, setting it gently on the table in front of Griffin. "That's correct," he said softly, his golden eyes watching Griffin with a hint of amusement.

Griffin opened the file, his eyes scanning the list of names. His heart skipped a beat, and his usually composed face betrayed a rare moment of shock. Nine names. Only nine students.

Mizuki, Katsuaki, Aneko, Kyosuke, Rikona, Chisuke, Takami, Yoshina, Rudina.

Griffin's brow furrowed, and a single bead of sweat trickled down his face. His voice rose slightly, an edge of frustration cutting through his usual calm. "Nine? Why are there only nine students?" His tone was sharp now, the kind that made lesser men tremble.

But the principal remained unshaken, lifting his teacup to his lips and taking it slow, deliberate sip. He smiled, ever so slightly, "It would seem so."

Suddenly, the school bell rang, a haunting sound that reverberated through the academy's halls. The principal rose from his chair and moved to the large window that overlooked the entire campus. Outside, students streamed into the main building, their youthful faces filled with excitement, nerves, and perhaps a touch of fear.