Farecrest Academy

CHAPTER I

Granite over granite the room stood, and millions of the golden chandeliers hung from the ceiling like bats.  The chairs were uncomfortable, for they were granite as well and vertically rectangular.  Rather quietly the room whispered amongst each other while Fedrus and Pholos both glared at one other menacingly.  Finally, the courtroom ceased their conversations as all witnessed The Preeminent stroll through the room.  With eyes glued to each other, Pholos and Fedrus both stood along with the rest of the citizen of Farecrest as Sir Abaddon and his assistants entered the court; the wall’s tiny, cursive writings glowed a bright, blinding gold as they walked through. The men’s white beards and black, baggy cloth dragged along the floor as they strolled toward their chairs.  Abaddon’s chair sat the highest of the black, granite seats, and his apprentices were lower After they all reached their destination, the court plopped back down in their granite seats.

Sir Abaddon’s black hood covered his eyes, but all were able to witness his mouth and only the tip of his nose.  His two optical symbols were poorly revealed by the dim lights the chandeliers portrayed.  “We are gathered here tonight,” he shouted in his indistinguishable, raspy voice, “to discuss the future of the offspring produced by Cavil Leventis and Althaia Sathakis.  Some proclaim her as an innocent infant while others believe she’s a monster unleashed.  Pholos, rise and state your theories.” 

Taking a seconds glance at Fedrus, Pholos stood playing with his collar for a brief moment, clearing his throat.  “You’re almighty; I must inform thine of that beast—

Intuitively, Fedrus jumped out of his seat as if his bottom had been pricked by a needle.  “As soon as thee looked into that infant’s eyes, ye witnessed no beast, Pholos!”

The room had gone silent, and everyone turned their attention towards Fedrus— as well as an upset Sir Abaddon.  Soon Fedrus noticed his mistake, and shame washed over him.

“Fedrus, ye shall speak when asked.  Does thou make thyself clear?” he declared in a turbulent tone.

Nodding, Fedrus sat back down and waited for his turn.  It was the least he could do.  Most citizens who blurt out phrases are sentenced to direct death, but Fedrus was blessed to be forgiven by Sir Abaddon.  As he turned his attention back to Pholos, Fedrus took notice of his cocky grin, but he forced himself to ignore. 

“I am sure we’re all familiar with the demon, Cavil Leventis, am I correct?” Pholos started.

Everyone quivered at the devlish name as gasps circled around the court.  Pholos frowned, nodding his head as he strolled around the courtroom.  Fedrus peeped one eye upon Sir Abaddon, and his dubious look almost made Fedrus reconsider on the trial.  Within minutes, Pholos forced Sir Abaddon to be suspicious and thoughtful on his claim. 

“It be a shame how great of an affect a single man hath made to our dear Farecrest.  Am I precise that we art all familiar with the beautiful Madam Althaia Sathakis, earth optical?”

Like expected, sad expressions were brought upon everyone’s faces, pretending they were still grieving.

Sighing, Pholos wiped away one alligator tear and continued his strolling.  “It be a tragic.  But, I must ask, hath thou any idea that these two bared a child?”

Gasps spread around the room, everyone turning towards their neighbor for answers.  As for Fedrus and his supporters, they all sat patiently, listening to all of Pholos’s protests.

“I shocked ye did’st thou not?  But thou art correct.  Cavil and Althaia bared a child of their very own.  A girl, to be more specific.  A girl with the blood of a demon and optical.  Who knowest how dangerous ‘tis monster could be?  Hath anyone aware of its capabilities?  Hath anyone aware of its limitations—if ye hath any at all?”