Quoted By:
"The five of you may convert three times the value of your accrued points to Divine Merits, our academy's primary form of currency. Merits may be exchanged for… just about anything, in addition to being utilized for Advancements. Advance nine times, and you'll be a proud graduate of Eden; one of the movers and shakers of our homely little continent, if not the world."
The Headmaster briefly basks in the utter silence of the strange arena, then claps their gloved hands together.
"Ah. And of course–the five of you are entitled to make one deal with me. A deal, not a demand. Simply send a message if you'd ever like to use that cheque, and we'll discuss things then."
They bow, bearing the weight of fifty tired, quiet stares on their shoulders. No one left has the energy to applaud.
A distant part of you notes that a target has probably just been painted on your back.
"To your left, you will see the exit."
The Headmaster snaps their fingers, and a wrought-iron gate simply appears, set into the wall. With the sound of grinding gears and rattling chains, the grid of spiked steel slowly lifts into the air, disappearing from sight.
"Please depart in an orderly fashion; starting now, a five-day ceasefire among all students has been declared to allow you Novitiates time to adjust. For now, I would recommend finding a place to sleep–you'll find plenty of rooming opportunities on our expansive campus. Lesson schedules will be distributed by dawn. And before I forget…"
With a clap of the hands, Arthur appears in front of you. His sword clatters to the ground, drowned out amidst a cacophony as numerous other students deal with their own inconveniences.
You don't care about any of that, though.
Your guardian looks up at you through clenched teeth. A wretched misery fades from his eyes as he registers your face–then, stout surprise as you rush forward to hug him.
"You may now collect your weapons. Welcome to Eden."
[Interlude: End]
—
[Arc 1 END]
Congratulations.
