Chapter 10: Arkesia Academy
The hiss of pressurized steam echoed through the station as the train slowed to a stop, its iron frame gleaming under the early morning sun. Passengers bustled off the platforms, some wide-eyed and others seasoned with travel. Among them walked Noah, a bag in each hand, dressed in a simple black coat that fluttered slightly in the breeze as he stepped off the steam-powered transport.
He glanced around the station of Arkesia, the capital city. Towering structures of polished stone and arcane glass surrounded the place, each one humming softly with embedded enchantments. Mana veins pulsed faintly along the edges of the city walls—like blood vessels of a living being.
Noah walked forward at a steady pace, maneuvering through the crowd. As he did, his gaze dropped to the letter folded neatly in his hand. It was from his mother.
He unfolded it again, even though he’d read it twice already on the way.
My dear Noah,
I know this is the beginning of something important, but forgive me for worrying. Please write to me when you can. I know you’re not my little boy anymore, but... I’ll still miss you every day.
Don’t forget your scarf. Eat properly. And be careful with strangers.
Love you always,
Mama.
A small sigh left his lips as he folded it back up and tucked it into his coat pocket.
’She’s really worried... I’ll send a letter once I settle in.’