The walk to the Main Castle is a blend of nervous anticipation and quiet awe. The sheer size of the structure looms over you as Rune leads the way, his tail swaying lazily behind him, always going back toward you for a nuzzle, before shifting around again to try to grab a butterfly or approaching another student curiously. Fibble, perched comfortably on your shoulder, mutters a series of complaints about the early hour, though his usual sarcasm seems muted by curiosity.

The classroom for Lorecraft is situated on the third floor, and by the time you arrive, students are already filing in. The air buzzes with quiet chatter, but as soon as you step through the door, you feel the subtle shift in the atmosphere. Conversations die down as gazes flicker toward Rune, wary and unkind.

Rune gives you a quick grin, as though trying to brush off the tension. You watch as the other students shuffle away, leaving a wide berth around him as though he carries a contagious curse. The only available seats are in the middle of the room, and you sit beside Rune, ignoring the whispers that ripple through the class.

The door at the front of the room swings open, and a tall, elegant figure enters. Professor Liora Scheh commands attention without a word, his presence magnetic. He exudes charm in the effortless way of someone who has always known the weight of his words. His honey-toned voice cuts through the lingering murmurs as he surveys the room with an inviting smile.

“Good morning, everyone,” he begins, his voice like a melody. “Welcome to Lorecraft. I am Professor Liora Scheh, and it is my great pleasure to guide you through the histories of our world’s most legendary figures.”

His introduction is neither boastful nor rigid—it’s natural, flowing like water over smooth stones. He begins pacing slowly, his hands gesturing with an understated grace. “This class will not merely be about memorizing dates and names. We will delve into the motivations, the choices, and the legacies that shaped our world. After all, history is not a list of facts; it is the stories we tell and the lessons we carry forward.”

Several students lean forward in their seats, their expressions dreamy, captivated by his every word. You can’t help but notice Tsuki Laito, a slender boy with an air of quiet contemplation, seated a few rows ahead. His eyes shimmer with interest as though already caught in the web of Liora’s storytelling.

The professor halts, turning his gaze toward Tsuki. “Tsuki Laito, is it?” he asks, his smile warm. “Tell me, what do you know of Cinderella the Great?”

Tsuki straightens, his demeanor calm and thoughtful. “Cinderella was a queen of Austreim,” he begins softly. “But before that, she was a servant in her own home, treated cruelly by her stepfamily. Her kindness and perseverance eventually led her to a royal ball, where she met the prince who would become her husband. With the help of an enchanted godmother, she rose from the ashes—quite literally—and became one of the most beloved monarchs in Austreim’s history.”

Liora’s eyes light up with enthusiasm. “Exactly! A perfect summary. Cinderella’s story is not merely one of transformation but of resilience. She embodies the idea that even in the face of adversity, one’s character and kindness can change the course of destiny.”

The class murmurs in agreement, and Liora takes the opportunity to elaborate. “This year, we will explore the lives of figures like Cinderella and many others. We will dissect their choices, their triumphs, and yes, even their mistakes. For history is not perfect, nor are the people within it. But through understanding, we find inspiration.”

His words weave a spell over the room, drawing everyone in, even those who seemed disinterested moments ago. He speaks briefly about the syllabus, mentioning projects, reenactments, and debates that will make the class as immersive as possible. His passion is contagious, and you find yourself leaning forward, hanging onto every word.

By the time the bell rings, you’re almost disappointed that the lesson has come to an end. Liora dismisses the class with a cheerful reminder to bring an open mind and a curious heart to every session.

As you and Rune gather your things, Fibble clicks his beak in approval. “Well, at least one teacher here knows how to hold an audience,” he mutters, though his usual sarcasm is tempered with genuine admiration.

Rune nudges you with his elbow, his grin returning. “Not bad for a first class, huh? I think I’m actually looking forward to this.”

As the two of you file out with the rest of the students, you can’t help but feel the same. Lorecraft, it seems, is going to be anything but dull.