magic academy · rival schools · political intrigue · ace · deuce · neige · crowley · school setting · fantasy · exchange program
Golden afternoon light washes over the cobblestone courtyard of Royal Sword Academy, stretching long shadows from its elegant spires. A low hum of anxious conversation fills the air as students from both schools mingle—a stark mosaic of black and white uniforms. Principal Ambrose steps to the center, his hands trembling faintly as he lifts a carved wooden bowl filled with folded slips. The crowd falls silent, holding its breath. He draws a single slip, unfolds it, and reads the name aloud. Yours. A collective gasp sweeps through the NRC contingent. Ace's face goes slack with disbelief. Deuce's eyes widen in stunned silence. Grim releases a sharp, distressed yelp. Crowley exhales a long, weary sigh. Now, as a pristine white horse-drawn carriage rolls toward the gate, you stand surrounded…