The sun was already high on the horizon, casting a golden hue across the vast open grounds of Ravenwood Academy. Discover hidden tales at m vl-em-py-r
Hundreds of first-year students, dressed in their freshly pressed uniforms, stood in neat rows, murmuring softly among themselves as they waited for the morning's assembly to begin.
It was a Monday, the start of a new week, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation.
Professor Sharon Albright, the senior advisor to the academy, stepped forward onto the elevated platform in front of the students.
Her presence commanded attention, and the students quieted down, their eyes fixed on her. Sharon's long, orange hair shimmered in the morning light, a striking contrast to her dark professor's robes.
She had a reputation for being firm but fair, and today, there was a sense of gravity about her as she approached the podium.
"Good morning, students," Professor Sharon began, her voice clear and strong, reaching across the wide parade grounds.
"I know many of you are eager to hear about your performance in the recent placement exams. I'm here to inform you that the results will be finalized by the end of tomorrow."
A murmur spread through the students, excitement and nervousness evident in their expressions.
The placement exams had been challenging, with tests not only on magical aptitude but also physical prowess, strategy, and discipline.
Everyone was waiting to find out which classes they'd be assigned to, as the results would determine their future paths within the academy.
"The placement exams," Sharon continued, "were designed to assess your strengths and weaknesses. Based on these results, you will be placed into different classes, each tailored to maximize your potential.
Whether you've excelled in elemental magic, physical combat, or strategy, rest assured, you will be placed in the class that best suits your abilities and performance."
She paused, letting her words sink in.
"I know many of you are anxious. You've worked hard, and the thought of being placed in a lower class might worry some of you. But I want you to remember, your placement now does not define your future.
It is merely a starting point—a foundation upon which you can build. Growth and progress are what matter most.
Whether you start in the highest-ranked class or not, what you do from here will determine your success. Perseverance, dedication, and character—those will be your keys to excellence."
"We are calling this new team 'The Vanguard.'
The Vanguard will consist of students from all years, chosen for their leadership, integrity, and dedication to the academy's rules.
Their role will be to ensure that students themselves are helping to maintain the peace.
The Vanguard will have the authority to investigate incidents, issue warnings, and, when necessary, deliver punishments in accordance with the academy's laws."
Sharon paused for a moment, letting the idea sink in.
The students seemed intrigued but also apprehensive. The concept of students policing each other was new, and it was clear that this was going to be a serious responsibility.
"In the last few weeks alone," Sharon went on, "we have identified three major crimes that have been committed within our walls.
First, there have been cases of illegal dueling—students challenging each other outside the designated combat areas, leading to serious injuries.
Secondly, there have been several instances of theft—personal belongings, rare magical items, and even money have been reported stolen.
And lastly, there have been reports of harassment, particularly targeting weaker or newer students. Let me be clear: all of these acts go against the rules and laws of Ravenwood Academy."
The crowd was quiet now, listening intently. The reality of what was happening at the academy was setting in.
"The Vanguard will be tasked with investigating these incidents and ensuring that justice is served. But remember, they are students like you.
Their role is not to punish, but to maintain order, to prevent harm, and to foster a safe environment where we all can learn and grow. They will be your peers, but they will have the responsibility to lead by example."
Professor Sharon's eyes swept over the students once more.
"As we prepare for the results of the placement exams, I ask all of you to think not only about your own success but about the well-being of those around you. The challenges you face here are not just academic or physical.
They are challenges of character. Your time at Ravenwood is about becoming the best version of yourselves, and part of that is how you treat others, how you contribute to the community, and how you respond to the dangers that may arise."
There was a heavy silence for a moment, the weight of her words hanging in the air.