Onyx Magical Academy (GXG)

Chapter Eleven

The carriage jolted slightly as we rolled over a cobbled path, but the ride remained surprisingly comfortable. I settled back against the plush seat, my heart racing with a mix of excitement and disbelief. Outside the window, the world unfolded like a tapestry, vibrant and full of life.

Mountains rose majestically in the distance, their peaks capped with glistening snow that sparkled like diamonds under the early morning sun. The valleys below were lush green, sprinkled with wildflowers in every imaginable color, their sweet scent wafting through the open window and mingling with the fresh mountain air. It was more beautiful than anything I had ever seen, a stark contrast to the mundane existence of my previous life, where I had been buried in textbooks and modern worries.

As we traveled, the sun climbed higher in the sky, casting warm light into the carriage. I felt a sense of freedom wash over me. The rhythmic clatter of the wheels against the cobblestones was oddly comforting, almost like a heartbeat guiding me forward into this new chapter.

Suddenly, a shadow swept across the ground outside, drawing my gaze upward. My breath caught in my throat as I spotted a wyvern soaring gracefully through the sky, its wings outstretched against the brilliant blue backdrop. The creature's scales shimmered in the sunlight, a mesmerizing blend of deep green and gold, reflecting the light as it glided effortlessly.

"Look at that!" I exclaimed, my voice bursting with awe. I had seen illustrations of such creatures in books, but to witness one in real life was utterly surreal.

The duke, seated across from me, chuckled heartily at my reaction, his laughter filling the carriage with warmth. "Impressive, isn't it? The mountains are home to many creatures, including wyverns. They're majestic, but they usually keep their distance from humans."

"Majestic doesn't even begin to cover it!" I breathed, unable to tear my eyes away from the magnificent creature. "I can't believe I'm actually seeing one!"

The duke smiled, the lines around his eyes crinkling with amusement. "You'll see even more wondrous sights as we continue our journey. Just wait until you reach the castle. It's a sight to behold."

A mix of anticipation and anxiety stirred in my stomach at the thought of meeting my new family. Would my brothers accept me? What awaited me in this world of nobility? The moment I had been dreading was approaching, yet the beauty surrounding us distracted me, if only for a moment.

As the wyvern soared higher, I felt a twinge of jealousy at its freedom. It danced through the sky, unencumbered by the complexities of lineage or duty. I wished for that kind of liberation, yet I was beginning to realize that perhaps I could carve out my own path in this new life, a life that wasn't solely defined by my lineage.

The carriage swayed gently, and I turned my attention back to the duke, curiosity shining in my eyes. "How did you first become a duke? Was it always your dream?"

His expression shifted, a more serious tone settling over him. "Being a duke isn't something one dreams of; it's a mantle one bears due to family legacy and duty. It comes with its own burdens. My father was a duke before me, and the expectations of leadership were instilled in me from a young age."

I nodded, absorbing his words. "And what about my mother? What was she like?"

The duke's gaze softened, and for a moment, I could see the affection he held for her in his eyes. "Your mother was a remarkable woman. Strong-willed, intelligent, and fiercely loyal. She commanded respect with a mere glance, yet had a gentleness about her that drew people in. I admired her greatly."

Bittersweet longing filled me at the mention of my mother. I wished I could remember her, to know her as he did. "I wish I could have met her."

The duke reached across the carriage, placing a comforting hand over mine. "You carry her spirit within you, Flynn. And you will learn about her through those who knew her best. Just give it time."

As we traveled deeper into the mountains, the path twisted and turned, revealing breathtaking vistas at every corner. I felt a growing sense of hope mixed with trepidation. This journey was not just about reaching a castle; it was about stepping into a new life—one filled with possibility and challenges.

After four hours on the road, we rounded a bend, and my breath caught in my throat. Before us stood a majestic castle, its stone walls towering high against the backdrop of the mountains. It was larger than anything I had ever imagined, with turrets reaching toward the sky and a grand entrance flanked by two impressive gates.

But what truly captured my attention was the flag that waved proudly atop the highest tower. It bore the insignia of an eastern dragon, coiled and fierce, reminiscent of the mythical creatures I had often seen in stories from Chinese mythology. Its elegant form seemed to symbolize power and protection, and I felt a thrill run through me at the sight.

"That's the castle of the Duke of Astley," the duke said, pride evident in his voice. "It has stood for generations, a testament to our family's legacy."

The beauty of the scene before me was overwhelming. I leaned closer to the window, my heart racing with a mix of excitement and apprehension. "It's incredible!" I whispered, unable to look away.

The carriage approached the castle gates, and I knew that my life was about to change forever. No longer just Flynn, the college student lost in the chaos of modern life, I was about to step into a new world filled with history, legacy, and the promise of discovery.

As the carriage rolled through the gates, I felt a surge of determination. This journey was just beginning, and I was ready to embrace whatever lay ahead, fueled by the hope that I could forge my own path in this captivating new reality.