Prince of The Ruined Kingdom

That morning, Ellora sat gracefully in her living room, speaking with Katya while gazing out the window. The morning sun began to illuminate the city of Avalonis, marking the start of a new day. In her hands lay a thick book about the history of the Aurelius Kingdom, but her mind had drifted far from the historical pages before her. The soft ticking of the clock indicated it was eight o'clock.

"Morning has arrived," Ellora murmured gently as she closed the book. She rose from her seat with a fluid motion, embodying the elegance of nobility that had never faded, even though their lives were now far removed from the palace's luxury. She walked to the bookshelf in the corner and carefully placed the history book back in its spot.

"I have to leave now," she said calmly, looking toward Katya, who stood nearby.

Katya, realizing what Ellora was about to do, stepped forward nervously. "Your Highness... do you need an escort for your trip to the Lupusrica Academy?"

Hearing the title "Your Highness" again, Ellora sighed deeply. Her gentle gaze fell on Katya, but beneath her graceful smile lay a profound weariness with that title.

"Katya, how many times have I asked you to stop calling me that?" she said softly yet firmly. "We are no longer in Evernoir, and I am no longer a princess. Just call me... Ellora. As we agreed."

Katya looked down, embarrassed, her cheeks flushing. "I'm sorry, Ellora," she replied quietly, "but I'm used to addressing you with honorifics. It's hard to change."

Ellora offered a small, calming smile. "No need to apologize. You've been through so much with me, and I understand your habits. But remember, we must adapt to this new world, just as I must."

Katya nodded slowly, feeling a bit relieved by Ellora's explanation. However, doubt returned to her face as she asked, "Ellora... are you really sure you don't need an escort on your first day at Lupusrica Academy? It's full of strangers, and I worry for your safety."

Ellora let out a soft, elegant laugh. "I appreciate your concern, Katya. But I don't need an escort. I must learn to be independent, especially in a place like Lupusrica. No one knows us there, and I prefer to maintain our anonymity."

She then looked at Katya intently. "What about my new identity? Is it all set?" she asked.

"Yes, everything is ready," Katya responded with a quick nod. "Your false identity has been processed. Your new name is registered at the academy, and no one will connect you to your past in Evernoir."

However, there was uncertainty in Katya's eyes. She hesitated before continuing, "But... are you really sure about this new name? The one you chose... I just want to make sure."

Ellora gazed at Katya for a moment, her smile soft yet confident. "Yes, I'm sure. This name is a new beginning for me and Lily. There's nothing wrong with leaving the past behind and starting over, right?"

Katya nodded slowly, though concern still lingered on her face. As their conversation neared its end, Ellora added gently, "And one more thing, Katya…"

Katya looked at Ellora, waiting for her next words. "Thank you for always being by my side. I ask for your help now and in the future, as a sister."

Hearing the word "sister" from Ellora, Katya froze for a moment. Her heart raced, finding it hard to believe that such an elegant and dignified woman—once a princess she had always respected—had just addressed her so personally. Her eyes widened, but she struggled to keep her expression from revealing her surprise.

"Si-sister?" Katya murmured softly, as if confirming what she had just heard.

Ellora smiled, graceful as ever, and nodded. "Yes, you've become like a sister to me, Katya. Thank you for everything." With those words, Ellora stepped out of the living room, leaving Katya in stunned silence.

As the simple door closed behind Ellora, Katya stood there, still processing what had just happened. Her breath felt heavy, her chest filled with overwhelming emotion. On one hand, she felt honored and touched to hear Ellora call her "sister," someone she held in such high regard. On the other hand, it was hard to accept the reality that Ellora, who had once been her princess, was now speaking to her so intimately.

As she felt confident that Ellora was far enough from home, the tears she had been holding back began to flow down Katya's cheeks. She covered her mouth with her hand, stifling the sounds of her emotional sobs. There was nothing she could do to contain the happiness and sentiment that flooded her heart.

"Ellora... you called me sister..." she whispered, her voice trembling as tears continued to fall.

Then, without realizing it, Katya released a sound that had been trapped in her chest for years. A joyful scream, almost like laughter, mixed with the unending flow of tears. She jumped up and down in place, like a child who had just received the greatest gift of her life.

"Ellora called me sister! Sister! Sister!" she shouted repeatedly, feeling an overwhelming sense of joy.

In the midst of her excitement, Katya paused for a moment, trying to catch her breath. She felt silly, but she couldn't suppress that feeling. All this time, she had lived as a guard, as a loyal servant, always in Ellora's shadow. But now, for the first time, Ellora acknowledged her as someone more than just a servant.

And for Katya, that was the greatest gift she could ever receive.

***

Ellora walked calmly, her graceful steps carrying her through the grand entrance of Lupusrica Academy. Her alert eyes scanned the surroundings, absorbing every corner of this new place she had set foot in for the first time. The sight before her was mesmerizing—a perfect blend of futuristic architecture and magical elements. The curved walls of the buildings were made of a metal that reflected light, while towering robotic statues in several corners exuded a mechanical yet enchanting energy that crackled in the air.

Surrounding these statues were floating magical crystals, softly glowing with blue light. The students bustling around her wore the same academy uniforms as Ellora—long, dark blue cloaks adorned with gold trim, featuring the academy emblem on the left chest.

"Lupusrica Academy," Ellora murmured to herself, gazing at the expansive structure with a thoughtful expression. Among the sea of new students entering the gates, she could sense the magical potential emanating from each individual, even if they hadn't fully mastered their abilities yet. Most seemed like raw talent yet to be shaped. However, amidst them were a few faces that appeared more experienced—likely senior students.

She paused briefly, scanning her surroundings for any signs of the seven pillar families of wizards. These families were the guardians of magic and knowledge in this world, and Ellora was already familiar with some of their names even before arriving at the academy. However, in this sea of unfamiliar faces, it was challenging for her to identify who might belong to those families.

Remaining composed, she walked toward the main hall alongside the group of new students. A confident senior student led them, providing clear instructions. "Welcome, new students! Please enter the hall for the welcoming ceremony. Don't get lost."

They all moved as directed by the senior student, and Ellora, despite quietly observing her surroundings, followed the lead with elegance. The hall itself was vast, surrounded by high walls adorned with the emblems of prominent wizard families. Above, large purple magical crystals floated slowly, casting a gentle, soothing light throughout the room.

As Ellora took a seat in one of the prepared chairs, a girl sitting next to her suddenly began to speak.

"Hi! I'm so excited today! This is a day I've been waiting for for years," the girl said, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "My name is Aria. I'm from a small town up north, but I've prepared myself for so long to be accepted into Lupusrica Academy. It feels like a dream come true! What about you? Are you looking forward to today as much as I am?"

Ellora turned slightly, offering a soft smile but keeping her expression measured. "Yes, of course. This is a great opportunity, and I'm happy to be here." Her response was brief, yet calm and dignified, earning her respect from Aria, who seemed impressed.

"I can't imagine how much we're going to learn here," Aria continued eagerly. "There are so many rumors about the amazing facilities and mentors here. I've trained hard to prepare myself."

Ellora simply smiled, listening quietly, though her mind was already focused on other matters. Her eyes continued to roam, observing the other students and sensing the magical currents around them. Some students appeared stronger than others, while most showed potential that hadn't yet been honed. However, none seemed to be from the pillar families she was searching for.

Suddenly, the crowd of students filling the hall fell silent as an elderly man stepped onto the stage. He wore a black robe adorned with ancient gold embellishments, radiating a powerful aura of magic. Behind him stood several senior students, calm and confident.

The old man raised his right hand, and in an instant, dozens of spellbooks floated into the air, followed by magical creatures that began to swirl around the stage. The magical display left the entire group of new students in awe.

Ellora, usually calm and unflappable, carefully observed the elderly man. His magical aura was extraordinarily strong, more powerful than anyone else in the room. Then, as he began to chant his spell, their eyes met. For a moment, the old man appeared surprised, his expression shifting before he regained his composure.

"Welcome, new students," his voice resonated throughout the hall, commanding and authoritative. "My name is Ezuthal Lorelei, the head of Lupusrica Academy. I have led this institution for decades, witnessing generation after generation of wizards grow and learn here."

He paused, as if carefully choosing his next words. "Lupusrica Academy is the oldest magic academy in the world, founded during the time of the first King Aurelius. This academy has witnessed the long history of the magical world, and we, the seven pillar families of wizards, continue to uphold that legacy."

Ezuthal went on, explaining the significance of the academy. "Here, you will learn from the best, with the finest facilities. This academy was established not only to teach magic but also to protect the world from the dark forces that may arise."

Ellora listened intently. Ezuthal's words reminded her of the times before Evernoir fell, when she was still part of a powerful royal family. But now, she was someone else—an ordinary student in a place brimming with mysteries and powers she hadn't yet fully understood.

"We will provide mentors and the resources you need to learn spell formulas, create new magic, or develop your powers. Remember, safety is our top priority here. Magic is a powerful tool, but it can also be dangerous if misused," Ezuthal continued with a serious tone.

After his speech ended, the hall buzzed with whispers from students who were impressed and excited. The magical display had been captivating, but for Ellora, the brief moment of eye contact with Ezuthal had drawn her attention more than anything else. She sensed that the old man had been watching her—perhaps even recognizing her.

As the new student welcome ceremony at Lupusrica Academy wrapped up, the lively atmosphere in the hall began to fade. Students slowly trickled out, forming small groups as they chatted about what they had just witnessed. Ellora gracefully made her way toward the exit, her expression calm and unfazed by the commotion around her.

Just as she was about to step out, a cheerful voice called out from behind her.

"Wait!" It was Aria, the lively girl who had sat next to her during the ceremony, running up to catch her. "I just realized, I didn't get your name! I've been curious all this time."

Ellora paused and turned, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "My name is Luna," she said softly but clearly. "Luna Dmitrievna Kudryavtseva."

Upon hearing the name, Aria looked impressed. "What a beautiful name! Kudryavtseva... are you from a noble family?" she asked, curiosity shining in her eyes.

Ellora gave a small smile, choosing not to answer directly. "Just an old name," she replied, politely diverting the conversation without revealing too much. Her graceful and calm demeanor only deepened Aria's admiration.

"It seems like we'll be spending a lot of time together here. I'm so glad to meet you, Luna! I think we could be great friends at this academy," Aria said excitedly, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Ellora nodded slightly, her friendly smile still in place. "I'm glad to meet you too, Aria. I hope your days here are filled with happiness."

Before Aria could continue the conversation, a teacher suddenly approached from behind them. With a formal and serious demeanor, the teacher addressed Ellora. "Luna Dmitrievna," he said respectfully, "Headmaster Ezuthal requests your presence in his office immediately."

Aria's eyes widened in surprise upon hearing that Luna was being summoned by the headmaster. "The headmaster himself is calling for you? Wow, it must be something important!" she exclaimed, awe evident in her voice.

Ellora remained composed, nodding politely. "Of course. Thank you for delivering the message," she said to the teacher before turning back to Aria. "It seems I have to go now, Aria. I'll see you later."

"Goodbye, Luna! Good luck!" Aria waved enthusiastically, her smile bright as Ellora walked away, following the teacher toward Ezuthal's office.

Upon entering the headmaster's office, Ellora felt a wave of familiar magic wash over her. The office was spacious, filled with ancient books and magical artifacts lining the walls. In the center stood a large wooden desk adorned with the academy's emblem. Behind the desk, Ezuthal Lorelei stood, watching her with an expressive gaze.

To Ellora's surprise, as she approached, Ezuthal immediately rose and knelt before her, bowing his head respectfully.

"Your Highness, Princess Ellora, I apologize for my boldness in summoning you here," he said in a low, regretful tone. "I did not mean to disturb you, but I felt it was my duty to personally welcome you after seeing you here at the academy."

Ellora, now using the name Luna, remained calm. Her expression didn't waver, although inside, seeing her mentor kneel like this touched her heart.

"Ezuthal, please, don't call me that again," she said softly but firmly. "I am no longer Princess Ellora. That name I have left behind along with the throne of Evernoir. I am now Luna Dmitrievna Kudryavtseva, an ordinary student at Lupusrica Academy. No more royalty, no more titles. Just Luna."

Ezuthal lifted his head, his gaze filled with confusion and a hint of sadness. "Your Highness—sorry, Luna," he quickly corrected himself. "I have taught you since you were young. I saw great potential in you even before you reached your teenage years. Seeing you here, trying to leave everything behind, is difficult to accept."

Ellora sighed deeply, her gaze softening. "I know, Ezuthal. You've always supported me, even when everyone else doubted me. But right now, I want to live in peace. The Evernoir kingdom has fallen, and I just want to take care of my sister, Lily, without getting involved in politics or royal intrigues."

Ezuthal stood slowly, understanding that her decision was final. "I understand. But know that whatever you need—help, support, or protection—I am always here for you. Whatever plans you have, I will be here for you."

Ellora smiled faintly, a bittersweet expression tinged with memories of the past. "I don't have grand plans, Ezuthal. I just wanted to see you again, to greet my mentor who used to scold me when I mispronounced spells."

Ezuthal chuckled softly, reminiscing about the past. "You were always too stubborn in your studies, but that's what made you extraordinary. Your destiny has always been grand, Luna."

"Whether grand or not, I just want to complete my education here and take care of Lily," Ellora replied calmly. "I don't want anything more than that."

Ezuthal looked at her with affection and respect. "Very well, Luna. If that is what you want, I won't push. But I will keep an eye on you from a distance, ensuring you and your sister remain safe."

"I know you always watch over me. Thank you, Ezuthal," she said, this time with a gentler tone. "Take care of yourself too. This academy may be full of challenges, but I know you'll continue to excel here."

Ezuthal smiled. "It's my duty to ensure that every student here receives the best education."

Ellora nodded and turned, ready to leave the room. However, just before she stepped out, she paused for a moment. "Ezuthal," she called.

"Yes, Luna?"

"I still remember all your teachings. Thank you for always believing in me."

Ezuthal smiled with pride. "Always, Luna. Always."

With a lighter heart, Ellora—now Luna—stepped out of the office, ready to begin her new life at Lupusrica Academy.

***