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

Chapter 3: Welcome to Acamancy

Hearing those long-awaited words now did not disappoint, I worried with all of the built-up anticipation of today that I would need some big grand show for this to live up to my hopes and dreams. But all the same, it left me beaming with pride as I took in the rest of the women's speech. Her voice was as easy on the ears as she was easy on the eyes.

"For those of you who don't already know me, my name is Rose Philips, wife of our beloved Dean of Acamancy Dr. Philips. I am often the first face you will see and first voice you will hear any time you enter the front office of our school. I work with Dr. Philips but I also work with all of you," She beams.

"I am the eyes and ears of Acamancy. If you have questions, I have answers. If you have ideas, I'll get a notepad. If you need help, I will find you a solution. Please feel free to find me, talk to me, and let me help you," she told us.

"Now that I got that out of the way, I will make room for someone with more knowledge about Acamancy. A special speaker to tell you all you need to know about starting your journey here. Someone much more enjoyable to listen to, without further ado, it is my pleasure to welcome to the stage Dean Philips," Mrs. Philips beamed.

She walked a few steps backwards, towards the right-hand side of the stage, clapping her hands and smiling ear to ear as she watched her husband glide across the stage to the microphone stand. As if everyone wasn't always glued to his presence, Dean Philips decided his entrance needed to make a real statement. Without so much as a flinch of his fingers, or blink of an eye all of the lights on the stage flared up to a blinding brightness before flickering out completely. I couldn't see an inch in front of my face. All around me I hear the whispered murmurs and excited gasps. Something catches my attention from the corner of my eye.

I glance to my side and observe small glowing orbs of yellow-white light emanating from the back of the room. I follow their movement as they arc overhead, briefly illuminating Dean Philip's fingertips, which reveal a subtle smirk and a sparkle in his eyes, before returning to their original position among the lights above him. I find myself captivated by the scene, my jaw slightly ajar and my eyes reflecting deep admiration for the individual before me. Despite being at least 25 years my senior, he certainly does not appear to be so. It would be fair to say that he is quite an impressive figure. His hair is a striking shade of blonde, almost white, styled away from his forehead and slicked back in a manner that accentuates the silver streaks glistening throughout. His eyes are an intriguing hue; while I perceive mine as gray with hints of blue that mimic a cloudy sky, his eyes resemble a fresh snowdrift reflecting a winter sky. Although they come across as almost white, this is not in a ghostly manner. Depending on the lighting, they may radiate a pale blue or take on a yellowish tint. It is as if light itself is manifesting within him, shifting shades based on the environment. His striking features are complemented by a tall and athletic frame, which he carries with grace. His attire is nothing short of regal; his suit appears to be crafted from the finest silk, in a stunning shade of emerald that perfectly matches his wife's eyes. Together, they present themselves as a distinguished couple, adorned in emerald and black. Dean Philips completes his elegant appearance with polished black shoes that catch the light as brilliantly as the emerald gemstones on his ring, which harmonize with those adorning his wife's finger, necklace, and bracelets.

Dean Philips lifts his hands, everyone freezes in silent awe ready for whatever display he puts on next, before realizing it was just your average gesture to quiet a room. Dean Philips begins to speak, his voice deep but smooth as the silk of his suit, he and his wife truly are matched in every way.

"The Academy of Manipulation and Control was built on just that, a foundation of manipulation and control," Dean Philips begins, not wasting time on welcomes and introductions. Maybe I spoke too soon, maybe Dean Philips is not just like his wife in every way. Where she was warm and welcoming, almost bouncing with joy as she spoke, Dean Philips is all business, right to the point and precise. He doesn't give the impression of straight edge firmness, but more so elegant and business-like importance.

"One hundred and fifty years ago, the founders established this institution with the intention of shaping and influencing its members. Their goal was to encourage conformity. However, we believe that our past does not dictate our present or our future. Seventy-five years later, we took back control of the school and our destinies. We not only changed the name but also redefined the core mission of the institution, leading to the establishment of Acamancy Academy for Elemental Manipulation. We have embraced personal agency, using our abilities to direct our own futures. While the school continues to provide structure, it now serves as a platform for us to learn how to harness our unique talents responsibly. Acamancy is a supportive environment for all Manipulators of age who aspire to refine, control, and enhance their skills while integrating into society. We will not conform or accept past limitations. Instead, we are committed to creating a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come, ensuring the continued vitality of the Manipulator community. It is essential to acknowledge the past, learn from it, and utilize those lessons to shape a better future. Each of you, as students of Acamancy, represents that future. Together, let us strive for personal growth and community development, for our progress is interconnected."

Without another word Dean Philips strides from the stage in silence. Not another word, or even a glance back toward us. Halfway across the stage Rose Philips joins her husband, and they walk hand in hand off of the stage and out of sight.