The Echoes of Rivalry & Ruin (The Acamancy Series I)

Chapter 1: A Long Awaited Arrival

The ever-focused pale blue eyes I saw sparkling in the puddle merge with the reflection staring back at me through the window of my mom's dented, rusted, once white truck. As my breath fogs up the glass, washing away the reflection, a bittersweet realization washes over me—just a fleeting moment I was back there—before reality gently pulls me back into the now. My mind, previously filled with echoes of the past, begins to clear as I remind myself to take in the beautiful scenery unfolding outside, and not dwell on my memories. Even as the scenery blurs a bit, as we zoom down the highway, I can still make out the vibrant green grass, lovely clusters of white daisies swaying in the breeze, and the charming houses that hum with stories of simpler times. I know that we are approaching our destination. The magic happens as the bustling cityscape with its bright lights, towering skyscrapers, and nonstop traffic gives way to the soothing charm of farms, friendly neighborhoods, and the heartbeat of small-town life. We are almost there. I sneak a peek back at myself in the mirror and see the girl from that sweet memory. But those gray-blue eyes full of innocence are gone, now my reflection tells a different story—a reminder of the decade that has flown by, leaving its imprint. I'm no longer that wide-eyed 9-year-old, bubbling with excitement to share the first Signs of Skills with my best friend. Now, at 19, I'm wrapped up in a whirlpool of anxiety, on the brink of stepping into a place that could change everything for me. This is the day, no not just today, this entire year will predict my future.

Don't think like that Em, you will be fine. Even if you never hone your skills and go back home to live a life, like your mother, it wouldn't be that bad...

As all of those anxious thoughts in my head start to settle down, I find myself captivated by the sight of something truly amazing. We're leaving the freeway behind, and my heart skips a beat as we take a rugged dirt path. Peeking out the window, I'm struck by the sight of an incredible lake, its sparkling surface mirroring the rich green fields that surround it. Winding concrete paths meander through the vast landscape, leading me to a magnificent stone fortress that stands tall like a guardian—an impressive gray structure that demands respect. All around, vibrant trees reach for the sky, and the sweet scent of blooming flowers fills the air, adding splashes of color against the backdrop of charming fountains that gently murmur with tranquility. In the distance, majestic mountains rise up, their rugged beauty creating a picturesque scene straight out of a dream. Winding rock pathways entice me to explore, inviting hidden adventures just waiting to be discovered.

The sheer size of this place is absolutely breathtaking; it feels alive in every nook and cranny, a remarkable space that hosts this grand castle-like school with its proud sub towers standing tall like vigilant sentinels. The architecture whispers tales of the past, with weathered gray stones showing their history—some crumbling, others draped in a lovely blend of dirt, ash, and vibrant green vines, complete with charming arched windows that spark curiosity. I'm here, totally in awe, struggling to grasp the stunning beauty around me. It's so much more than I ever dreamed, exceeding every vision I held in my mind. And above all, my heart is bursting with joyful disbelief—I can hardly believe I've been accepted here! The excitement is palpable as I prepare to dive into three unforgettable years at this extraordinary place, where every moment promises a new adventure.

You hope it will only be three years. You better hope that you actually have what it takes. That you're even half as smart and talented as you think that you are and your success in high school wasn't just a fluke. For your sake you better hope that you can make it here, you know the alternative.

I push past those thoughts plaguing my mind again, as I tune into my mom's chatter about the school. I don't know if she's talking to me or Leo, as usual I wasn't paying attention to her as she rambles on to my family.

"....that was years ago. Who knows what has changed since I attended the school though. The outside always looks the same but inside... It changes more than the bipolar weather we have here. It is made to change, it has to, that's kind of the whole point," Mom says.