Chapter One: Graduation

A Chapter by Karin Koops

It was a nice, brisk day in Greybridge City, there was a slight breeze blowing, the sky was perfectly clear and the winter months were finally ending, bringing back some green to the naked branches that typically decorated the city. A young man dressed in cerulean garb stood in front of a mirror adjusting his clothes and flattening out unsightly wrinkles. Xavier had always been someone to maintain a regal appearance but today he was more concerned than ever that his peers, as well as his teachers and other officials, would see him as the standard for excellence that he believed he was for today, Xavier was taking the first step towards his last stint at Magus Academy before he was scheduled to graduate. The white-haired student had been at the Academy for over a decade and had accomplished almost everything there was to accomplish over his time there, even though his grades never seemed to get higher than a C.

Xavier moved over to his coat rack near his dresser and slid on his white, Magus Academy coat that signified him as a graduating student. Too bad it was white, which made him look even paler then he already was especially with his white hair which every water wielder had. In just a few minutes, there was going to be a ceremony for him and five others in honor of them being about to begin their last term at the Academy before graduation. But what Xavier didn’t know, was that there were plans for him that had been in the making for almost two years. The murder of water elementalists had gotten almost completely out of control in the last five years, pushing the leaders and citizens of Latovia to their breaking point. It had been decided that the standard militia, even with some assistance from the Magus Academy, simply did not have the time or resources to effectively combat the threat. Thus, a special task force was deemed necessary and had secretly been formed with only a select few knowing of its existence.

The white-haired magus stood in front of his mirror once again before being interrupted by a familiar voice. “Hey, Xavier you better hurry up!” It was his best friend Rael Whitford.

“Yeah, yeah I'm coming. Is the Main Hall crowded?” Xavier was curious to know how many people had come out to show their respects. Sure, there were plenty of them that were coming to celebrate the other students but as far as Xavier liked to imagine they were all there for him.

“There has to be at least a thousand people in there, Xav.” Rael said excitedly. “Excellent.” He checked his appearance one last time before he was ready to leave. “Alright, let's go.”

“Come on!” Rael seemed to be more excited than Xavier. The two of them were separated by only a year, Rael being the younger, and had been close friends for a majority of both of their time at Magus Academy. They had shared the same room all these years and so Xavier was used to Rael hyper attitude and everlasting jokes. Rael always stood out, having the white hair just like Xavier, the bright blue eyes but a bit more color in his face, like an overly done suntan. He was one of the things and people Xavier would surely miss but he knew his friend would graduate in a year and they already had made plans for visits.

They moved out of the dormitory as fast as they could and across one of the many, beautiful courtyards on campus, through one of the academics buildings and finally into the Main Hall.

“Okay I've got my seat down front with the rest of the guys so I'll see you afterwards, Xavi.”

Xavier nodded with a nervous smile on his face and the two went their separate ways. The hall was decorated with colorful ribbons, elegant tapestries and wonderfully exquisite woodwork and was lit by a combination of window light and Magic light; it was almost breathtaking for someone who had never seen it up close before.

After a few brief announcements and a recitation of the Magus Academy pledge, which stated that the students promised to 'always use their knowledge, experience, and talents to forever better the land, people, and culture of Latovia' no matter where they go when they are done, the six students were called up onto the grand stage where the Dean of the Academy, who had been there for nearly forty years, spoke about each student’s honors and overall performance; Xavier felt a little bit more proud than normal when it was obvious his list was fairly ok. A few more minutes went by as different teachers were called up to tell an anecdote about each student that had exemplified to them why these students embodied excellence. Then, finally, the ceremony was concluded with a standing ovation and everyone was dismissed. Xavier stood on the grand stage with his diploma in his hand and looked across the Main Hall with a smile from ear to ear. This was it, he thought to himself with pride, but what now? He knew students were helped with making their future career choices but he wasn't even sure yet what he even wanted to become. Most joined the army or went into healthcare since those were needed the most these days. Xavier let out a sigh and decided to think about this later. He raised an eyebrow as he sees a girl standing against the wall at the far end of the hall. Her crystal-like eyes were fixated on him it seemed. But as soon as he looked at her she looked away and ran off. Now it was time to celebrate.

There was a special luncheon being served in the dining hall where Xavier and his friends sat retelling exciting stories of their lives on campus and also discussing Xavier’s future. But in the middle of one of Rael’s way over exaggerated stories, the group was interrupted by their defense teacher Professor Michel Fellon and the Dean, Marcus Marsh.

“Congratulations, Xavier.” Exclaimed Dean Marsh as he extended his hand. “Thank you, Dean.” Xavier stood to shake his hand. “I hate to take you away from your little group, Xavier, but there's someone here that wants to talk to you.” Said the Dean in a serious tone. Xavier smiled as he said jokingly. “Well I’m sure there are plenty of people here that want to meet me.” Rael and the others busted out in laughter.

Dean Marsh shifted from his original congratulatory manner to a much more solemn demeanor and looked him straight in the eye over his glasses as they dropped to the tip of his nose. “Mr. Moreaux, I'm sure that is true but this someone has asked to meet with you personally and I am obligated to make sure that happens.”

The laughter quickly faded away as the boys began to look around at each other wondering what was going on. “Who is it?” Xavier asked, perplexed as well. It wasn't like he knew anyone outside the academy since this was the only home he knew so who would ask for him? Usually only the students with the highest grades were sometimes approached by 'outsiders' as he tended to call them. “You'll find out when you come with me.” It was almost like Dean Marsh had read his mind Xavier thought to himself. Then Professor Fellon chimed in. “Xavier, trust me, you will want to come with us. This is very important for you. For your future.” Professor Fellon was Xavier's favorite professor, and vice versa even though Professor Fellon would never admit publicly to have favorites in his class and was an expert in Water Magic Defense, which was also one of the young lad's specialties. It made him feel at ease that the Professor was supporting this meeting, he would trust his judgment almost blindly. If Professor Fellon was so strongly recommending it, then it must be important. The Dean rarely ever interacted with the students but Professor Fellon was very involved in campus life. “Um, alright, yes sir.” Xavier turned to his comrades and said goodbye for now, gathered his things while taking a last bite of his sandwich and followed Professor Fellon and Dean Marsh.

They left the dining hall and went across campus to the Dean's office. Xavier had been here only once before because of an incident earlier in his career involving some serious trouble while out in the field practicing. The memories of having almost drowned a fellow student simply because he wasn't paying attention to what he was doing, still haunted him sometimes in his dreams, even though that was almost six years ago. As they entered the office, Xavier immediately noticed that there was someone already there, waiting for them. He was a stern looking man, dressed in a military garb of the highest order that was decorated with several badges, stars and bars and he also armed himself with a sword and a pistol on his hip. He had slick brown hair, a straight mustache and an eye patch over his right eye. It was impressive to look at him yet it made Xavier wonder why a man who was clearly some big shot in the military would even want to talk to him at all. He must have impressed someone he thought to himself with a proud smirk on his face. The Dean moved over to the man's side and motioned for Xavier to greet him. “Xavier, I want you to meet General Roamer. He is the commander in chief of all military operations within New Eden. General this is the student we discussed earlier. Xavier Moreaux.”

Xavier, one of the most proud people one would ever meet, was awe struck at the General's persona, though he tried not to let it show too much. “It is an honor to meet you, General.” He said as they shook hands, while wondering if his hand would break since the General had a firm handshake to say the least.

“I could say the same about you, Mr. Moreaux.” The general spoke with a clear and almost loud voice, but did he really just call him Mister Moreaux? Xavier was used to being called Xavi and never by his last name and he had to hold back a chuckle. “Dean Marsh and Professor Fellon have told me all about your career here. They both say you are a good student.” Good student? Xavier thought and now had to fight off laughter at that remark. “That is quite an honor, and I try to live up to their expectations, sir.” He said while thinking who would ever say that he was a good student, it didn't make sense to him since he only barely graduated. It was only weeks ago he thought he would surely fail his exams since he spent more time with his friends, rather than actually studying at all. “They also say that you would be a perfect candidate for a new program we've begun here in New Eden, as well as the other countries.” Well this was going well Xavier thought. He already was kind of lost in what the General was telling him. “New program? And it involves other countries?” He asked with a hint of pure curiosity. “That is correct. You see, Mr. Moreaux, I'm sure you're aware of the growing dilemma we all face. The people behind the killing of our known water elementalists are growing more and more skilled at accomplishing their goals. It has pushed our standard militia to its limits and the people are at their breaking point. Now with young magi disappearing from their homes and their schools, we have been left with no choice but to organize a special unit whose sole purpose is to gather information of this matter, as to how they possess the ability to wield fire, a power that was thought of as extinct and utterly destroy the source of it. We have been building this group for two years now and have recruited some of the most skilled soldiers in Latovia.” It all sounded impressive to Xavier. This man clearly knew what he was talking about. “Well, that sounds great, sir. But where and how do I fit in all of this?” He asked since he still had no idea what this man wanted from him.

“Soldiers can only take you so far in a fight like this, Mr. Moreaux. You can't go barging in with a squad of soldiers and hope our opponents won't find out plus we need to know who is the mastermind behind all this. What we need to be successful are individuals. We need individuals that hold the power of dozens of squadrons in their lone hands. You are one such individual I believe.”

“Me?!” Xavier was shocked. He had always thought of himself as a slacker and well anything but a skilled fighter, but the thought of using that power to such an extent had always been on his mind. Mostly in his dreams. “Are you sure about this? I mean, I'm ok I guess, but I've never been involved in a military outfit.” He said as he looked down at the floor. Was this guy serious? They must have the wrong student here or so. “Xavier,” Spoke Professor Fellon as he saw the confusion in Xavier's eyes. “I've watched you grow up from an arrogant little child to a fine young man with a lot of potential at this Academy, even though you may not see it yourself I certainly do. I've watched your competitions and I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that with General Roamer's direction, you can help bring a stop to this awful situation.”

Xavier looked up at the Professor. Wow. . . That meant a lot coming from Professor Fellon, had it come from anyone else it just would have filled his ego but his words actually meant something to Xavier. “So, you really want me to join in this group you spoke of?” He asked.

“I can assure you, Mr. Moreaux, that I would not be here nor would I have made time to come here if I didn't think you were fit for the job.” The general replied to his question with a nod.

Dean Marsh stepped forward and stood in front of Xavier, placing his hands firmly on his shoulders. “This is a once in a lifetime chance, Xavier.” He spoke. “It would be a disgrace not to take this amazing opportunity.” The Dean knew it would also boost the reputation of his academy if one of his students was chosen. He looked aside as Professor Fellon chimed in. “Now, now, Marcus, don't pressure the boy like that. If he doesn't want to join then he doesn't ha-” He didn't get to finish the sentence as Xavier spoke in a husky voice. “I'm in.” All eyes were on him now. “What was that, Mr. Moreaux?” Asked the General just to be sure he heard it correctly.

“I said I'm in. I've waited for something like this my entire life, a chance to do something great, something that few that could ever accomplish. I was destined for this.” A strange kind of confidence overtook him as he spoke. He wanted this so bad, mostly because it would mean he was someone people could look up to, instead of the annoying kid that couldn't listen to anyone and just did what he wanted. This was what he had dreamed about so many times. A chance to actually be somebody. Maybe this was that chance he thought. No matter what, he had to give it his best shot at least. “Ah! Now that's the attitude I like to see!” Said an excited Dean Marsh, though no one was really sure if he was genuinely excited for Xavier or the thought of having another famous alumnus under his tenure. Fame would come with the job once word would get out about this so called super group of people.

“Are you sure, Xavier?” Asked Professor Fellon. He was genuinely worried about his student. “This isn't going to be like the Academy. People are going to die, and people are going to try and kill you. I won't be there to set the rules for you, you will have to take men's lives if needed. Are you sure you are ready for that?” It was obvious that, while he was very proud of Xavier, he had hoped none of his students would ever have to face real danger like this. He had faced danger before and the taking of someone’s life had changed him forever. It was one of the main reasons he had made a career switch to becoming a teacher instead of a fighter, though not many knew about his past in the military order. “I'm sure, Professor.” Xavier nodded reassuringly to his favorite Professor.

“Excellent!” General Roamer said before making his way to the door to leave. “I'm glad you've taken this opportunity, Mr. Moreaux. Now, you'd better get packing, you're expected at our headquarters in forty-eight hours. Good day, gentlemen.” He said with a slight nod and left the room, leaving Xavier, the Dean and the Professor behind. Xavier walked to window and looked outside. Did this all just really happen? Maybe it was just another dream he thought to himself. Professor Fellon suddenly stood behind him. He spoke in an almost fatherly manner. “I'm proud of you Xavier and I know you will do great things if of course you put your mind to it.” His vote of confidence meant a lot to Xavier. “Thank you Professor. For everything.” He smiled and shook both the Professor as well as the Dean's hand before leaving the room to go find his friends again at the dormitory.

All the official festivities had ended, yet they were just getting started in the dormitories. Xavier grinned wide as he entered his room and his friends greeted him with a cheer until Rael pulled him aside. “What the hell happened?” Xavier replied in a husk whisper. “I can't say. But it seems I have a job now. Can you imagine that?” He chuckled as he looked into the surprised eyes of his best friend. “Seriously? Already? I thought you wanted to travel and see what's left of the world, remember you told me you wanted to see if you could find the place where you were born? Maybe finding your parents?” Rael's questions made Xavier think. He did have a point. That was his actual plan en he was sure some time in the future he would actually do it but this was just a chance he wasn't able to say no to. “I know I know! But guess what? I'm going to be a soldier.” He grinned wide from ear to ear again. “I can't tell you more though!” He quickly said as he watched the questioning expression on Rael's face. Rael didn't know whether to be happy or sad by Xavi's change of heart. They had made plans together to meet up and with him in the military he was sure that could take a long time. Xavier saw the disappointment on Rael's face and gave him a reassuring pat on his back. “We will still meet up as soon as possible and you can still travel the world! You don't need me for that and when we do see see each other again I can use you as my travel guide.” Rael couldn't help but laugh at that remark. “We have a deal. Now let’s party!”

The next day Xavier woke up earlier than usual. The morning flew by as if no time was passing at all. Twenty four hours had now passed since he heard the news of his recruitment into a new secret force. Most of his time had been spent at the party giving vague answers to his friends incessant questioning. Dean Marsh had advised him not to give out any specifics of his new assignment, lest they fall upon untrustworthy ears. Trust wasn't an easy issue; someone who was a friend now could in the future be an enemy. When Xavier wasn't being bugged to death by Rael and the others, he was busy packing his bags and deciding what he should bring with him from school. General Roamer had told him to report to the militia headquarters by tomorrow but Xavier was too excited to wait and was leaving within the hour. He had said his goodbyes and shook plenty of hands and of course made joking remarks with his friends how he might not see them again now that he was being promoted to such a top level assignment, but in truth he knew he would miss the guys more than anything. It was one of the reasons he was in a hurry. Taking his time on saying goodbye to the only place he knew as home would just be too painful. At just a little past two in the afternoon, the young magus boarded a carriage with only his belongings and Professor Fellon to accompany him. “Are you sure you don't want to wait until tomorrow to leave, Xavier?” His instructor asked as the magic-powered engine started up. “What? And go through of all of this again? I've said everything I needed to say to everyone and there is no point in waiting until tomorrow.” Xavier seemed quite sure of his decision, though there was the unquestionable hint of sadness of having to leave what had been his home for fourteen years.

Professor Fellon nodded and ordered the driver to head for the Militia HQ. He understood what this moment was like for Xavier. Xavier peered out the small window to see his friends waving goodbye one last time. Sure he could be an arrogant a*s at times, but seeing his friends disappear out of sight almost brought a tear to his eye. Xavier knew, however that the task he was about to undertake was of great importance not just to him or this city, but, if things were really as dire as General Roamer said, the entire land of Latovia. This is what gave him the strength to leave, this is what provided him with the courage to abandon the old and embrace the new. Watching the Academy vanish in the distance he couldn't help but take a stroll down memory lane. He had been at the Academy since he was only 4 years old, which was the common age at which kids with the abilities he showed at that age were taken from their homes and families to be schooled and guided on their path to mage hood. It was by law that that happened and nobody really questioned it.

Everyone knew the problems Latovia had with the water rising everywhere. The problems had started centuries ago Xavier had learned in History class. Water and Fire magi were in a constant war with each other. The ability to wield water was a birthright in a way and seen as a blessing. The ability to wield fire however was more like an infection, being passed on to basically random people, and so people who wielded fire were seen as bad or evil. After the Great Magi War about 400 years ago the 'infection' had been concealed. It was considered lore that it was only trapped in a certain item and hidden, though nobody knew for sure if the story was true and if so, what the item was or where it had been hidden. The water magi had won. Many people had died, mostly fire wielders and now years later they were still paying the incredible price of that victory since the balance was broken. Land disappeared over the years by the excess amount of water present which was the main reason any water magus needed to be guided in the use of their abilities so they would only use it when absolutely necessary. Xavier didn't remember his parents or even if he had any siblings, which made him sad sometimes and he always had the idea in his head to maybe someday go out and find out where he came from. But where to start? The place he came from had been swallowed by the water so that was not an option he thought to himself. Now he was 18 years old and a graduated water magus, now it was time to finally see the world and leave the Academy behind.

“Don't worry, Xavier. I'm confident that this disaster will be over soon enough, and you can come back to the Academy. Maybe take up a job as my assistant?” Professor Fellon said, taking notice of his pupil's prolonged glance back at his friends.

“Yeah, you're right. With me on the job, we'll have the whole thing cleared up in a week.” Xavier snapped back to reality and was back to his old self now. “Ha ha now don't get too confident. You may not even be the strongest person of the unit.”

Xavier shrugged the remark off at first, but when he continued to think about what his teacher had said, the more he began wondering what kind of people he would be working with. General Roamer had said that they needed strong individuals, but Xavier was the only one chosen from the entire Academy and it was virtually a one stop shop for young, talented individuals. They must be some seriously good fighters if they didn't need anyone else from the Academy. . . With the thought of meeting even stronger people than those at Magus Academy, he was even more excited about beginning his new assignment. “Hurry up, driver! We've got things to do and places to go!”

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