Harry's First Morning at Arcanum Isle
The morning light filters through the heavy curtains of the dormitory window, casting a soft glow on the stone walls. Harry wakes up to the sound of soft murmurs from his roommates, Cyrus and Selene, who are already getting ready for the day. Nyx, sensing the change in the air, lets out a quiet caw from her perch by the window. Harry quickly dresses in his Umbra uniform—a deep purple cloak and dark robes that signify his House. The fabric feels comfortable yet sturdy, designed for both the rigor of magical study and the challenges that come with being part of Arcanum Isle. After gathering his things, Harry joins his roommates as they make their way to the Great Hall for breakfast.
The Great Hall is alive with the energy of students eager to start the new school year. The long tables are once again set with banners representing each House, and the room is filled with the sounds of chatter and clinking cutlery. Harry finds a seat at the Umbra table, surrounded by his Housemates. The mood is a mix of excitement and curiosity as everyone awaits the start of their classes. Nyx, perched comfortably on the back of Harry's chair, draws a few admiring glances from other students. The raven seems to enjoy the attention but remains focused on her new master, occasionally nibbling on a piece of fruit that Harry offers her.
As breakfast is served, a senior student moves along the Umbra table, handing out timetables to the new students. When Harry receives his, he studies it carefully:
Monday: Elemental Magic in the morning, followed by Combat and Dueling in the afternoon.Tuesday: History of Morgana's Seat, then Potion-Making and Alchemy.Wednesday: Mind Magic in the morning, with Necromancy and Life/Death Magic in the afternoon.Thursday: Combat and Dueling, followed by Astronomy and Divination in the evening.Friday: Potion-Making, followed by Elemental Magic practice and review sessions.Saturday: Optional study sessions, special workshops, or House-specific training.Sunday: A day for rest, independent study, or exploring the grounds of Arcanum Isle.
As the students settle in with their breakfast, the Headmistress stands at the head of the Great Hall. The room gradually falls silent as her presence commands respect and attention. Isabell Star raises her hand, and the enchanted candles flicker slightly as she begins to speak. "Welcome, students, to a new year at Arcanum Isle," she begins, her voice carrying easily across the room. "To those returning, welcome back. And to our new students, welcome to what will surely be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of your lives. Here at Arcanum Isle, we strive for excellence, for power, and for mastery over the magical arts. You are here because you have been chosen—because you have the potential to become something greater than yourselves."
She continues, outlining some of the key events and activities planned for the year:
The Arcanum Tournament: "This year, we will once again hold the Arcanum Tournament, where the Houses will compete in various magical disciplines. The tournament is a test of skill, knowledge, and strategy, and the winning House will earn the highest honors."Guest Lecturers: "We are pleased to announce that we will host several guest lecturers throughout the year, each an expert in their field. These lectures will cover advanced topics in necromancy, elemental manipulation, and mind magic, offering insights that are not part of the standard curriculum."House Competitions: "In addition to the tournament, there will be ongoing competitions between the Houses, including dueling contests, potion-making challenges, and magical creature care. These events are designed to foster both individual excellence and House unity."A New Tradition: "Finally, we are introducing a new tradition this year—the Midnight Trials. These trials will be voluntary but are designed to push even the most experienced students to their limits. Participation is not for the faint of heart, but those who succeed will earn both respect and valuable rewards."
Isabell Star's gaze sweeps across the room, her eyes lingering on the new students. "Remember, each of you carries the legacy of Morgana within you. Uphold it with pride, and let your actions reflect the power and wisdom of Arcanum Isle. May this year bring you knowledge, strength, and success." As the Headmistress concludes her speech, a murmur of excitement runs through the Great Hall. The returning students exchange knowing glances, while the new students, Harry included, feel a mix of anticipation and trepidation. The promise of the Arcanum Tournament, guest lectures, and the mysterious Midnight Trials looms large, signaling that this year will be anything but ordinary.
After breakfast, the students begin to disperse, heading to their first classes of the day. Harry, with his timetable in hand, makes his way to the Elemental Magic classroom, ready to dive into the rigorous training that awaits him. Nyx remains close, a silent and watchful companion, as Harry navigates the corridors of Arcanum Isle. As Harry leaves the Great Hall, he can almost hear Emma's parting words from the night before echoing in his mind: "Trust yourself, and trust the magic within you." With those words as his guide, Harry steps into his first class, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that Arcanum Isle will bring.