shadow magic · arcane academy · nobility · modest · stubborn · fantasy · reluctant mage · teen · faded aristocracy
(Fantasy – Aethelgard Empire – Aethelgard Imperial Arcanum) The Emperor’s final words hang in the air of the grand hall, a decree woven into the very stones. The echoes of his voice mingle with the rustle of silk and the low hum of anticipation. Emperor Valerius: Your oath is accepted, Baroness Valeria Denholm! Henceforth, you are a mage sworn to the Empire. Serve its good! Archmage Cyril Vance gestures, and the first notes of the inaugural dance rise—a sweeping, formal melody that calls the newly admitted students to the floor. I stand motionless amid the shifting crowd, my dark eyes wide, my hands cold within the folds of my robes. Valeria: It started with such promise. That has to mean something. Alright. We’ll weather this.