The Fragile Thread of Eternity

Chapter 3: The Academy

Sera's POV

I now find myself riding in an elegant carriage on the way to the academy.

I decided to accept their invitation to refine my skills, as they're known to be the best institution for it.

Kaya paggising ko, agad kong hinanda ang mga gamit ko. Hindi na ako masyadong nag impake dahil ang academy na ang magpo-provide nga mga gagamitin ko don.

The letter instructed me to wait at the boundary between Velorisca and Silvermoon Vale. I set out early, knowing I'd have to walk to the edge of town. When I arrived at the meeting point, a carriage was already waiting along with a man in a tuxedo—the driver, I assume.

Agad niya akong sinalubong at kinuha ang mga gamit ko. Then, he opened the door for me.

I guess there's no turning back.

As soon as I boarded, the carriage began to move. The town of Velorisca gradually disappeared from view, fading into the distance as we traveled toward the academy—the place where it all began.

I quickly shook off the memories that resurfaced, unwilling to relive the pain that shattered me first.

The journey was quiet. I didn't bother asking the driver how long it would take. I simply gazed out at the changing scenery, noting that, as far as I remembered, we'd pass through two towns, Silvermoon Vale and Duskmire, before reaching the academy.

Di ko namalayan na nakatulog ako. Di ko alam kung ilang oras o minuto ako natulog. Nagising nalang ako ng tinapik ng isang lalaki ang balikat ko.

"We are here, Mistress." Pagbibigay-alam nito sakin. 

I stepped down from the carriage, greeted by two towering golden-bronze doors adorned with intricate floral designs and other engravings. Living vines crawled up the walls, enhancing the mystique of the place.

A discreet cough from the driver pulled me back to the present.

"Mistress, please present your letter to the door for verification." He instructed.

Mabilis kong kinuha ang golden letter na pinadala sakin. I placed it in my palms facing the door. A light emerged, scanning the letter, and then the massive doors began to open.

I refrain myself from showing any emotions of awe to the place. Pagbukas ng pinto ay agad naglakad ang lalaking driver kaya sumunod na ako. As I passed through the doorway, I felt something like a barrier but di ko to ikinabahala.

Once past the entrance, I was met with the vast expanse of the academy grounds. In the center, beyond a fountain, stood a grand structure that resembled a castle. Its purpose was unknown to me, but I would find out soon enough.

"This way, Mistress." Sumunod lang ako sa lalaki. I guess papunta kami sa headmaster's office. 

We followed a brick path flanked by pine trees on either side, with various creatures like elves, gnomes, and leprechauns playing amongst the greenery. Each emitted shimmering particles, adding a magical essence to the atmosphere of the academy.

As we passed some students, they cast curious and skeptical glances my way. It was likely because it was a Saturday, and classes were off. Their stares, however, held no significance to me—I had more pressing matters at hand at hindi sila ang ipinunta ko dito.

We continued to the fountain, guarded by two griffin statues, and then turned left. The path remained lined with pine trees, dotted with pixies fluttering about, appearing as if they were protectors of the trail. Everything here felt enchanting. It's all magical.