《BERTRIM ACADEMY》


 -3 Prologue: BERMUDA TRIANGLE

    YEAR 1492


    The night was different from any other nights, it was darker, colder, and even too quiet. The waves of the ocean and the swaying of the ship is the only thing the crew felt. Everyone are already asleep except for one, the captain, he felt uneasy causing him not to sleep. He decided to watch the night for a while. For about 10 mins. watching he was about to turn back but saw strange lights, dancing, over the horizon. The sight was captivating and he never looked away. He started shouting orders that woke every crew on deck and below deck. The ship was then put on course to the horizon, wishing that an island might be there, its been months since they saw land. Then dawn came, a small ray of sun light is visible, the captain looked back again, and saw glimpse of unusual creatures. They are undescribable, some were huge, gigantic even others smaller, and one looked at him that cause him to move back a step. He suddenly realize that the island was slowly vanishing. A mirrage, he thought, after the island was gone. He then faced all his crew that are now on deck and started giving instructions to find land. The captain didn''t say anything but the crew has their own way of passing-up time. The captain went back to his quarters and started writing everything he saw to his diary to remind him it wasn''t a dream. It was something to be remembered and one day be discovered in the future.


    YEAR 1609- 2009 (COMPILED NEWS)


    Activities of unexplained events happen in the middle of the ocean. Deaths, plane crushes,and even missing planes and ships that passes through the BERMUDA TRIANGLE, or others call the Devil''s triangle. This paranormal activities are known to everyone but few dare to solve it, even the international government are impartial to what they think of it. Devil''s triangle was it''s first name but at present they changed it . the place is defined by Bermuda, Puerto Rico, and Southern tip of Florida, creating a triangular shape, and having a 1.5 million sq. mile area.


    The Bermuda Triangle region has some unusual features. It''s one of only two places on Earth-the other being an area nicknamed the Devil''s Sea off the east coast of Japan, which has a similar mysterious reputation-where true north and magnetic north line up, which could make compass readings dicey.


    It is also home to some of the deepest underwater trenches in the world; wreckage could settle in a watery grave miles below the surface of the ocean. Most of the sea floor in the Bermuda Triangle is about 19,000 feet (5,791 meters) down; near its southern tip, the Puerto Rico Trench dips at one point to 27,500 (8,229 meters) feet below sea level.


    Treacherous shoals and reefs can be found along the continental shelf. Strong currents over the reefs constantly breed new navigational hazards, according to the Coast Guard.


    The Coast Guard also notes that unpredictable Caribbean-Atlantic storms can yield waterspouts that often spell disaster for pilots and mariners.

 -2 CHAPTER 1: THE ADOPTED and THE ORPHAN

    PRESENT(2010) : CRIMEAN RESIDENCE


    I am Aye, they say I was born in the month of September. I am living with my parents but not my biological one, although, for me I consider them my real parents. They took me in, adopted me really, and I took their last name Crimean. I grew-up not knowing any of my real parents and I never asked them, I didn''t mind.


    "Aye! come down now or you''ll be late. You have an entrance exam for college."


    "Thanks mom!, I''ll be there in a minute."


    I forgot to mention that I''m still in highschool. I''m only seventeen but my mom wants me to take an exam for scholarship in college. I go to a nearby public school, a 30 mins walk. I do have friends but I rarely go out with them, so I''m more left out. I''m alright though, for real!


    " Aye, here are the things you should. bring and God bless you child." Paul said.


    "And don''t forget to meet us after your exam." Shea added.


    Aye left and went straight to the train station. She looked at her watch and saw that she has less than 20 mins left before the exam starts. As the train stops she stayed near the exit area and run as fast as she can to the examination building. 8 mins left and was able to find the room and took her sit. The exam started at exactly 9:00 am, she was less nervous and more confident to take the exam. She finished it after an hour and a half. She left the area quietly not to disturb the others and looked at her watch. She still have an hour before meeting her parents. She decided to walk around and watch other people do their own business. She actuallyy enjoy watching them talk loud like they can''t hear each other, running from or to, gossips and arguments in the public area, and others who go non stop shopping, How busy the world is? She realize. She then reached the meeting place 25 mins early and looked for a spot to sit. As she continuously watch outside through the glass window, she saw 5 people carrying boxes and entered an abandoned shop, after 10 mins of waiting. No one came out.


    "Excuse me, do you have any order in mind?" the waitress asked pulling her out of her trance.


    "Uhmm..., I''ll just have a cup of coffee, thanks" she replied and looked back at the window again.


    After 15 more mins. of watching, 2 person came out holding a gray case and was on a hurry to leave. Once they left the perimeter the old shop started to crumble, one by one the front roof falling then the blocks but before Aye could stand-up and leave someone called her name.


    " Aye, how was the ex..." her father started asking but interrupted by a loud crash on the ground. Smoke and dust started to cloud the place.


    " What just happened?" Shea asked her brother.


    "It was an old shop, at least their were no people who work there now." he replied


    "Your mistaken dad I saw 5 people entered the shop but only 2 came out in a hurry before the place fell." Aye said to them.


    All the three of them went out and look at the shop to help but before they could, someone already announced that it was empty.


    "Oh! thank you Lord, no one got hurt." Paul said.


    "I think we better Leave, we''ll be late if we stay here longer." Shea mentioned.


    "Were are we going?" Aye asked


    "We are going to meet an old friend of ours and we are having late lunch with him." Her mother answered her.


    Aye then went back in the cafe, paid her bill then took her things and coffee out. She never mentioned to anyone what she saw that day and never bothered to think about it.


    They took a taxi going to Atterir Hotel, a prestigious hotel for the elites and other known individuals, it also host different occasions. They reached the place early. Walking along the lobby a receptionist guide them to the dinning area. It is found in the second floor to their right and they were ushered to a table where they met the wealthy owner of the only library near the city.


    "Hello Mr. and Ms. Crimean, it has been 18 years since the last time we met. Come and sit with us, these are some of my staff and friends."


    " Your right it has been 18 years and you got older but still strong even with a cane." Paul answered him


    "Ah... but death is inevitable my friend."


    "That is true, very true."


    "Now Ms. Crimean, who is this? your child? or your brother''s? And why didn''t you told me that one of you is married." The man inquired.


    "Well... yes and no. Aye is our daughter but not one of us is married. Her real name is Rei Aye given by her biological parents but we adopted her and she took our last name. That made us her..."


    "mother and father." The man added and smiled.


    "That''s right!" Shea answered back smiling.


    The conversation went on and on while the food was being served. Everyone ate while conversations on different topics were out, from books to economics, to politics, even personal experiences. The late lunch went to snacks and almost reaching 5 in the afternoon. Aye was able to find someone to talk to, she''s 9 years older than her and a college professor, teaching science related courses. She is pretty and can make anyone comfortable, they talk about the news, researches and their opinion on it, her school, and her aspirations in life. Their conversation was cut short, because her friend has to leave and Aye let her leave after saying goodbye. She has no idea where she works but was satisfied knowing her first name: KEREN.


    "Well! we have to go, it is already 4:35pm, maybe... Mr. Bien when you return again, you might want to visit us." Shea suggested.


    "Yes, of course, I think we also need to leave. Bye my friend..., Ms. Shea and Aye, it has been a pleasure to meet you both.


    "Goodbye and thank you for the meal Mr. Bien.". Aye replied.


    "See you when we see you again, my friend." Paul followed.


    Everyone started to stand and say their goodbyes and all one by one took their leave.


    "Father, I''ll have to go to the rest room, would it be alright that you wait for me?". Aye asked them both before they reached the door.


    "Of course, take your time, we''ll be waiting for you in the lobby."


    Her parents left her and walk along the hall then the stairs going down to the lobby, while Aye went in and looked for a rest room at her left side.


    PRESENT (2010): AZALEA MANSION


    The phone was ringing for three times before the house maid reached for it. The caller was asking for Mr. Roque, and the caller was connected to the master''s study phone.


    "Riiiiiiiiiiiiing."


    "Hello! Mr. Clark, you called, is their any thing I could do for you that you called this early in the morning?"


    "We______ll, sorry to call on you this early Mr. Roque. What''s with the formality Carl? anyway the reason I called, as one of our business partner, you are officially invited to attend the conference and bring your nephew with you.". Clark said to him.


    "You called this early in the morning just to invite me and my nephew. Since when did you become your own secretary and messenger at the same time?" Carl answered back laughing at him.


    "Actually, the letters should have reached everyone yesterday but a problem came up. So, to finish everything I have to do it myself." Mr. Clark explained annoyed.


    "Why don''t you just say that you fired again for 106th time that secretary of yours. Where and what time will it be?" Carl asked.


    "At Atterir Hotel, it will be an early dinner at 5pm and the venue would be private by that time." He answered not bothering to answer his first statement.


    "We''ll be there then." Carl answered and put down the phone.


    Just after Mr. Roque have talked to the phone, he asked for his nephew from his butler.


    "Rune, call my nephew." He ordered.


    Rune left and went to find this master''s nephew. He found him in the courtyard playing with a friend, Sera, the youngest daughter of the head butler. The master''s nephew treat Sera his sister.


    "Excuse me sir but your uncle wants. to speak with you now, he''s in his office."


    "Did he mentioned what is it about? Sera and I are still playing."


    "I think it''s urgent sir but I don''t know what is it?" Rune replied.


    "I''ll be going then, once uncle say now it is now! So... Sera why don''t we have this match for next time."


    "What! no way! I was already ahead of you by 2 points." Sera said.


    "Then you can beat me again next time."


    "Okey, next time then." Sera replied happily. He left after hearing her reply and took his things. Once he was gone in their sight Sera asked her father.


    "Father what do you think Mr. Roque wants from Akira?" Sera asked


    "I don''t know, we don''t need to know, and next time don''t just call Mr. Akira in his first name alone." Rune answered her while walking away.


    "Poor father, he can''t even say the name of Akira without the word Mr. or Sir, maybe father try loosening up or I''ll do a brain transplant to change your mind from thinking to much.". Sera said while following her father.


    "What did you just say Sera? ... would you like me to cut your allowance?" Her father threatened her while grinning.


    "Ahmm... it was nothing, really father forget about it, it was just a joke and please don''t cut my allowance, I need it." His daughter started to beg.


    Her father didn''t say anything but laughed after hearing Sera plead, while Sera pouted and continued to walk behind her father.


    Meanwhile, Akira walked in the house and put all he was carrying at the shelf near the stairs then went through the stairs, climed it and reached the top. He took a turn to his right and knocked on the first door. He heard his uncle''s voice and he let himself in.


    The room was wide, as he enters he saw a familiar figure, a small flower that was carved from crystal glass with few tinged of ruby color on it''s petals. It seats on the top of the center table surrounded by furnitures.


    "I''m amazed that from all the room and corridors of this house, this is the only room that constantly change. This time he never changed the position of all furniture nor even the color, he keeps everything in this house the same as they are from the first time I saw and stayed here, except this room ''his study''." He said to himself while waiting for his uncle to say something.


    "I''m curious uncle, this room keeps on changing every time I enter, except for this carved flower center piece on the table." Akira announced after looking at the room..


    "That flower is named Azalea. it''s impossible to remove it, it''s part of the room and I want it to stay where it is." His uncle replied.


    "I figured that, the last time I was here... Anyway what was the important thing you want to say?" Akira asked.


    " It is not a thing but an event. Tonight you are coming with me so I want you on your best behavior. By 4:30 this afternoon we are going to Atterir Hotel. It''s about time you''ll meet all supporters and the board of Audessus Essai University." He answered back.


    "Come on uncle, are you still trying to put me to college?" He asked again.


    "Actually no, this time it is only for business, at least you''ll learn something from this event, and you were invited. And as long as you are living with me, college is still is a requirement." His uncle replied.


    "Thats all, you can leave now, just be ready by 4:30." His uncle added.


    "_________I''ll be ready by 4:30 then. But you haven''t'' told me the story of the flower." Akira asked.


    "Leave Akira, I have other things to do." He answered. He left his uncle alone and he went straight to his room and started looking for an attire, something to wear for dinner.


    ?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????


    "Hi! I''m Akira Roque, an orphan and the heir to the Roque Company. Both my parents died in a plane crash when I was young and I was the only one who lived. I don''t remember what they look like so the pain of loosing them is less. I think that is also the reason why I believe to live my life to the fullest because life is soo... short. Also I''m not studying, I still want to enjoy having fun. Anyway I have to go and prepare."


    At 4:30 in the afternoon, Mr. Carl Roque and his nephew were just about to leave. Sera was talking to Akira while his uncle settled himself in the car, waiting for him.


    "Hey brother, you look hmmm....." Sera started.


    "Good? nice? what?" Akira inquired.


    "Noo..., ______you look different, this is the first time I saw you wear a suit, it''s just that... ah... never mind, forget it." Sera replied.


    "That''s all! come on Sera don''t I look like ''Adonis'' huh? say it" Akira joked. Sera laughed at it and didn''t say anything else because his head will surely get bigger if she agrees to it.


    "Akira were leaving, we''ll be late if you don''t move your ..."


    "Yes! I''m coming, see you then later sis.". Akira said.


    He sat just beside his uncle and the car started left the mansion. The ride was short it took only 15mins. They didn''t talk until they reached the hotel and Mr. Carl went out first, his nephew behind him. They walked along the lobby and directly to the dinning area. Few people are still there and others are leaving.


    "Oh! Mr. Roque, please come in, your sit will be near the window on your right. Please follow me."


    "Thank you, let''s go Akira, remember my... you already know it."


    "Sure!" He replied looking bored beside his uncle.


    Aye was finish using the restroom and look at herself in the mirror. She was debating if she''ll wear her glasses or not, to hide her eyes. She was also thinking of her parents waiting for her and decided to wear it and left the rest room. While she was walking she accidentally hit the nearest table to her right were people are around it. She said sorry while walking away from them backwards but suddenly hit someone and cause her to fall forward, but able to find her footing.


    "Are you alright Mr. Roque?" The attendant asked. While Akira went to her and help her then asked:


    "Miss are you alright?"


    "Yes, I''m fine thank you." She answered.


    " Is she alright Kira?" His uncle inquired.


    "Yeah, she just say yes, then maybe she''s fine." He replied.


    "And before I forgot, next time miss try to look where your walking and not else were." Akira whispered to her coldly and sarcastically.


    Aye took in those words carefully and felt humiliated, the words were true but the way he said it felt that sarcasm was part of it. She faced him and look directly to his eyes, while putting on her glasses and said:


    "Thank you again sir for pointing out my mistake, I_______I''ll keep that in mind." Aye responded coldly and walk pass him to meet the man she bump too.


    "Sorry sir for the trouble."


    "That''s alright no harm done, you can go now." Mr. Roque said assuringly.


    " Thank you sir." She replied in relief and smiled genuinely. She left the place not looking back. She tried to erase the face of the guy who help her in a way and in the same way irritated her before she meets her parents.


    As for Akira he was rooted in the place not moving until someone called him.


    "Akira, would you please take your sit. Did something happened or are you seeing ghost?" inquired of him by his uncle.


    "It was nothing, I just remembered that I forgot to bring my phone." He replied while acting that his phone is left at home.


    "Was that a trick of the eye or what? Her eyes were different. They must be contacts, wasn''t gray or silver? Who is she?" He thought to himself


    He was brought back to reality by the speaker standing in front of the stage and welcoming everyone. The event was about the plans for the development and possible expansion of the university. The first speaker discussed on the updates in the school both in skills and academics of all students, slide shows were shown on how these student excel and compete to other schools. The following speakers discuss on the financial stability and where was the money coming from and to what purpose they were used. Other speakers just thank everyone who supports the school and those who help in the school mission.


    "Now that we are near from finishing, I would like to tell that the reason why I also asked this young people here to come is for you to be convince to enter our university. The school faculty and some students made a wonderful video of the school and it will answers your questions regarding the school because I''m old and can''t stand that long." Mr. Cross started.


    The video presentation was 15mins. long and shows the different facilities, classrooms, auditorium, school ground, and the entire map of the university and island. It shows also other school activities and national and international competitions. They also added students who graduated and now working and are successful. The video ended but Akira was still unconvinced and bored at the same time.


    "Well then young one''s this place I have shown you is known as the Essai island. This island is not found in any continent for it is a man-made floating island. " Mr. Cross added.


    "Excuse me sir, would their be a place that we could enjoy without the feel of imprisonment?" A lady asked.


    "Actually there are, we have malls, beach, virtual rooms, and other recreational activities. Additional to that with the help of your relatives this was made possible."


    "So any more questions?" the Mr. Tristan Cross further asked.


    Everyone stopped asking questions after 10 mins, some are already starting to leave and said their goodbyes. That made Mr. Cross to stop talking and end the event at 15 mins past 10 that night. Akira started to leave the place and went to the receptionist area to wait for his uncle. After a few mins. he saw his uncle pass, followed him to the car and they went straight back home.

 -1 List Of Primary Characters 1

    Shea Crimean > Sister of Paul, Kind but not weak, and open minded. Adopted mother of Aye. Works as a Professor in the morning and a Hotel Manager in the evenings. Has a young face with golden eyes and Auburn hair. Graduate of Hotel and Tourism Management.


    Paul Crimean > The older and only brother of Shea and Adopted father of Aye. He is hard working and approachable always called by his friends as Mr. Preacher during counselling time. Has a dark brown eyes and wears glasses with Black hair. Graduate of Information Technology.


    Rei Aye Crimean > Adopted daughter, has a black hair with a small portion of silver hair infront and silver to grayish eye color, wears glasses or contact lences to mask it. She is plain to look at but has a talent for her photographic memory. she likes to read during her past time. Taking up Medicine.


    Ritz Eve Palmer > Best friend of Aye, cheerful and optimistic, and very creative. She likes to write songs and draw. Compared to Aye she''s beautiful and taking up Architecture. Has a red hair and green eyes. She likes to invent things.


    Len Scott Vienapole > with Asian features and friend of Aye and Ritz. He likes to hack for fun and has a pre-training for weapons and martial art. Has a Black hair and golden brown eyes. Taking up Criminology.


    Carl Barron Roque > Uncle of Akira, a widow and a businessman. One of those who funds the Essai University. Has a graying hair and blue eyes.


    Akira Enrich Roque > An orphan, never knew her family due to an accident. He lives with his uncle and the successor of his uncle''s estate. He is good looking as they say, with dark black eyes and black hair. He plays lawn tennis, has a good sense of humor and friendly. Taking up Business Admin.


    Arthur Robles > Best friend of Akira in the University and twin sister of Analyze. Good looking too with Blond hair and amber color eyes just not seen when he wears his glasses. Likes to read and hack, taking up Information Tech.


    Analyze Aris Robles > Twin sister of Arthur. She''s beautiful with Slight blond hair and golden brown eyes. Learned to fight to protect herself from men, because she hates them the most. Taking up Geology.

 1 CHAPTER 2: GRADUATION and DECISIONS

    ONE YEAR LATER


    "Shea, what''s taking her so long isn''t her graduation today?" Paul asked.


    "Uhhh...ha, she is already changing to her room, she''ll be down after 5 mins." Shea replied while preparing.


    Aye was still trying to figure out what to wear but then found a dress she wore before, lavender in color with different shades. The dress is an inch above the knee and the dress fit her perfectly, it was simple and modest in a way. She found a thin white belt and put it loosely around her waist, she put a light make-up since she doesn''t use much (it irritates her skin), then her contact lenses. She pared her dress to a 2 inch high vintage look strapped sandals that she bought with her mother the other day. It was the only expensive thing she wore that day then went down and showed herself.


    "Mom, dad, what do you think? I added this belt and necklace you gave me on my 18th birthday." aye asked looking at them.


    "You look very pretty in that dress dear, good thing we bought that sandals. What do you say brother?" Shea asked her brother who was coming from the kitchen.


    "Of course you are, you can make a simple dress more modern. That''s how creative you are." her father said after seeing her.


    "Really! thanks mom and dad, even if parents are meant to say that to their child, I''m still happy." Aye replied smiling.


    Both her parents laughed at it and all of them left their house before they could be late for the ceremony. After 10 mins. they reached Laurence High School and all students line up for the marching ceremony. Her parents and all the people who came took their sits, the marching began with a strong but solemn music at the background. An opening remarks was done and all graduates were presented by the school president. The names were called one by one for the diploma then came the recognition for all outstanding pupils they have. The valedictorian called to say his speech for less than 3mins. The president gladly presented the top 10 students who pass the exam from Audessus Essai University.


    " I would like just to add before I continue for the top 3, that all of them will receive certificates and scholarship award. Now, our top 3 is... Mr. Alex Cronus." an applause was made louder than the last time and waited for it to die down before the next student was said.


    "Top 2. Ms. .... Rei Aye Crimean." The president mentioned while they continued to clap.


    "And for top 1. who is one point higher the Ms. Crimean:... Mr. Arthur Robles." all names that were called stayed in the stage while the crowed continued to clap. Pictures were taken after the closing remarks that was done by the emcee. Before everyone in the stage could leave the stage they we''re asked for more pictures to be taken for the headlines.


    "Rei Aye Crimean." Shea called her daughter and Aye, who is with her few friends, she found her parents smiling.


    "Congratulations!" both her parents said to her at the same time.


    "We are very proud of you that you actually passed the exam... not just pass but rank 2." her father mentioned it.


    "How about a small celebration before we go home?_" Shea suggested.


    They left the place and create their small celebration.


    _________________________________________________________________________________________________________


    ..


    The next morning the Saturday newspaper were already out and now hanging in the stalls. The paper would always have the same news: robberies, suicides, gossips, political controversies and even murder. Of course, there are some news on unexplained phenomena that would make readers entertained aside from the good news parts of the paper, that rarely has.


    The Crimean Residence is already busy that morning. Paul and Shea left before 8 am and went to work. Paul, a graduate of Information Technology works in a company as a team leader of his department. While Shea a graduate of International hospitality and tourism management was recently hired and works at Atterir Hotel as a manager in the evening while in the morning she teach college students. Aye was left to clean and do some laundry at home, after three hours she was done and decided to go to the market and buy some supplies.


    She took her lunch at her room after coming from the market. She then sat in front of her computer and surf about the school she planned to go to. She went to the school''s home page and tried to see how the university looks and what are other programs they have.


    >>>>>>


    Mr. Carl, reading the morning paper, looking for new news but found few. He started to read regarding Laurence High School, the only public school in the area. He continued to read, until he saw a picture of 10 students and read the caption below it. He looked closely and said to himself: "This group looks promising, it would be a wonderful year then."


    Carl folded the paper and stood near this window, he watched the wide land he has and its sculptures from different kinds of statues to a single type of flower that surrounds them. He could see the cliff that marks the end of his property. Before he could turn back, he saw his nephew teaching Sera. He always knew that his nephew was bright but it is hard to motivate him to change his mind about college. Mr. Carl felt he needed a bit of break and decided to go down and listen to his nephew teach.


    20minutes before...


    "Brother since you don''t have anything to do, would you please help me in my English report. Plea_____________s." Sera asked.


    Akira didn''t say a word but nod his head up and down. Sera thinks her brother said yes and decided to sit next to him, put her books and notes down then waited for Akira to move. After a while Sera was getting annoyed and decided to speak but saw something that stopped her. She pulled out the connection or the headset from the player and Akira quickly reached on it and sat up, looked around to see who disturbed him.


    "Who the heck ___________?" Akira asked but stopped when he saw Sera.


    "Sera, is their anything you need?... Sorry about that." Akira added.


    "since you didn''t hear me because of that thing, plea..."


    " you like me to help you in your literature report, right" Akira suddenly said.


    "You heard me?! but why didn''t you say ...." Sera replied. she knew now that Akira was playing a joke again. She suddenly stood up and hit him in the head.


    " You, you are so mea...n, did you think I would leave you if I didn''t hear an answer?'' Sera asked with a teary eye.


    " Okey! okey!, sorry about that, what was it again you want me to help you on your report? and I promise to help you." That cheer her up.


    "Well we were on my English subject and they want me to discuss on beliefs and philosophy of the Greeks. It''s a punishment for having a fight with my classmate." she replied smiling.


    Akira laughed so hard before saying: " You had a fight? I know I should say ''don''t do it again'' but I''m impress. Well then we''ll leave that for a while, so... what specific belief or philosophy they want you to focus on?" he asked her finally.


    "It''s about the beliefs of both men and women about their roles." she replied.


    " Okey, hmmm... In what way are going to report it anyway."


    "They want it to be creative, maybe a drawing would suffice."


    " Why don''t I draw it then."


    "Sure why not." Sera agreed laughing. She knew Akira can''t draw because the last time she asked him to draw a face. He just made two circles for the eyes then a stick nose while the mouth was just a thin straight line. Now she was looking at his master piece and started laughing, because she can''t even decipher what he was making. Akira became irritated that he asked her to fetch a book at the library that would help. Sera came back after 5 mins. and Akira started browsing on it and found what he was looking for and started reading.


    " The time period of 400 BCE, marriages were arranged. Fathers had legal control over their daughters until a suitable match was found for them. Most girls married around the age of fifteen. This seems to be a young age but the average lifespan at that time was around 35-40 years.


    Once married, women were ruled by their husbands. Greek men admired women for their roles as wives and mothers, but they frequently thought that women were too emotional. Greek men prided themselves on their reasoning abilities. Men were seen as rational and women were seen as irrational.


    The Greek Home


    In many Greek homes, the top floors were the domain of the women in the household. Women were not permitted to enter the room where their husbands had dinner with their friends. With the exception of this male-dominated room, the woman of the house had freedom within her household.


    If she was married to a man who was wealthy, she had slaves to do the heavy work, and she was able to take time to travel outside her home to visit friends and relatives.


    If she was married to a man who didn''t have wealth, she might have had to take a job outside the home to make income for the family. She might have worked in a shop or as a servant for a wealthy family. Some women managed inns or learned to make cloth for garments.


    Duties of rural women would include work on the farm. They harvested olives and fruits as well as gathered vegetables. Women also went out to attend religious ceremonies and rituals to honor the gods and goddesses. These ceremonies were often held in temples that were designated for women only.


    Women in the City-State of Sparta


    In Sparta, life was different for girls than it was in other regions of Greece. Girls attended government schools and also played sports, which other Greek girls didn''t have the opportunity to do. Sparta needed soldiers so women who gave birth to male children were prized. Most women had slaves to handle the household chores.


    Spartan men were so focused on warfare that, compared to other city-states, Spartan women had more freedom and independence. Around 400 BCE, two-fifths of all the land in Sparta was owned by women as compared to other city-states where all inheritances had to go through the male bloodline and only limited property could be owned by women." Akira said while reading the book and made a summary for it. He continued to explain for the next 15 mins.


    "I think that''s all, just read this then asked me if you need to clarify things." Akira finally said.


    "Okey! I got it. I''ll just see you later. thanks bro." Sera answered


    "Wait! tell me what did you actually do to this classmate of yours?"


    "Oh... I just hid one of her favorite and most expensive watch of hers."


    "And why did you do that?"


    "Well... she told everyone that I was the person spreading everyone''s secret. Let''s face it I did know everyone''s secrets, I mean literally I know, but why would I even tell the entire campus? and the worst part that girlfriend of yours sided with her, making the situation worst."


    "I''ll show you a trick in handling them, want to see it?"


    "What? tell me." Sera asked looking at her brother smiling or more of a grin. She knows that when Kira started to have that look, he has the most brilliant way of annoying someone. So she, waited until Akira said something.


    "Try telling her to meet me one of this days, then I''ll do the rest."


    "What are you planning to do?"


    "Just make her remember something." He replied still grinning.


    " AKIRA ENRICH ROQUE! What do you think your doing? you should know better." his uncle suddenly said showing himself.


    "Oh! sorry sir I was only asking for help." Sera interfered.


    "That''s right, did I do anything wrong? Anyway I''m already 20 yrs old." Akira added annoyed.


    "Is that all?" his uncle asked him but Sera answered him.


    "Yes sir!" Sera replied.


    " Now Akira once your done teaching her, come in library." his uncle replied without looking back at them.


    Both continued talking more about her reporting style and Sera didn''t try to asked him, that might create a problem. After 10 mins. they were both done, she thanked him and left. Akira took his player and went straight to the library carrying the book he asked Sera to get. He climbed the stairs two at time and went to the second floor, east wing where the library is. He didn''t knock and entered , he placed the book back to the shelf and heard pages being flipped and followed it. He saw his uncle sitting near the window and he walk to the nearest chair then sat. His uncle waited for him to sit and didn''t say anything until few minutes past. Mr.Roque stood up and gave the morning paper to his nephew and sat opposite him. Akira took the paper and asked:


    " What do you want me to read uncle, the paper only contains old news and new gossips, there''s nothing good to read at..."


    "Turn it on page 9 and read regarding St. Lawrence High." his uncle said interrupting him .


    He turned it to page 9 and started to read the article and noticed the pictures on it with captions showing ten students passing the entrance exam for Audessus Essai University. He then continued looking at the other images and noticed the girl in the middle, she looks familiar, and remembered the girl he saw last year but was not sure if it is the same person.


    " Are you done reading it? you seem staring at something now."


    " I''m not sure, I thought I saw her before. But I think its not her."


    "Who?, her name is Rei Aye Crimean. and she is the same girl we bump last years. Of course I still remember her."


    "No way!, I mean she''s really that good? So, those glasses were not for..." Akira said out loud without showing any irritation, for what, he didn''t even know the person.


    "Well are you telling me that she''s better than you, she''s just 18 and she is already beating you in taking college." His uncle said trying to irritate him more.


    "Is she really going to enter that university or she has other offers?"


    " What I''m sure of is this is the only exam she took and her family is dependent on the scholarship she has" His uncle replies. Akira looks closely to his uncle for any sign of fooling him but saw nothing.


    "hmm..., tempting uncle, but the way I see it your using this to put me to college, don''t you?"


    " I have been telling you to get yourself productive, and I hope this is already tempting enough because I''m tired looking out for you"


    "Whatever! it isn''t even that tempting all right. Why it has to be that gi... I mean that University. I hate those eye.... island. Akira! better think of an answer..." Akira thought to himself thinking what to say.


    "Akira, I''ll ask you again, when are you going to start..."


    "Alright,! I''ll enter college. not because you asked me too but because I think it''s time for me to."


    "Good as long as you choose to go to college or university." His uncle finally said and left him on his own and was glad that his nephew agreed to enter college.


    _________________________________________________________________________________________________________


    The sun started to set from the window, it was a breathtaking site at the Azalea mansion. The sun rays as it sets, touched the wall of the mansion, and Sera was watching this until Akira disturbed her.


    " Sera! look up here." Akira called her from his window, holding a camera. Just as Sera looked up he took the shot laughing. Sera finally stood after a second from shock and run as fast as she can to Akira''s room, she tried to snatch the camera but failed to do so. Akira already throwed his camera at his bed and lock his door.


    "Why the hell, where is it?"


    "Don''t worry I''ll be needing it once I go for college. it will be my remembrance of you." Akira replied.


    "Why didn''t you say so. I would have given you a better picture."


    "That''s alright, I''ll be using it to ward of insects and rodents.." Akira replied jokingly.


    " You... are...so.... mean." Sera said while hitting him.


    "It was just a joke! Come on it''s already dinner we better go down." Akira explained and both started to go down from the stairs while they continue to talk.


    "My dearest brother, you''ll be having a problem once you start or I mean once you Leave."


    "And what problems would those be?" Akira asked


    "Well... no one would wake you up, no one would play with you who is as good as me, most specially no one to tutor me. I''ll be bored staying here in the mansion."Sera enumerated.


    "You''re right no one would wake me up but how is it the other three becomes my problem?" Akira inquired.


    "Because I''m your sister and you are responsible of my skill in tennis or I''ll become a weak opponent. That''s how it became your problem.


    Akira just laughed hard and Sera joined him after a few seconds until the reached the dinning area. Mr. Carl was already at the table and both took their sit after Sera was asked to join them. The food started to be served from a corn soup appetizer until the roasted duck with sweet potatoes as main course followed.


    "Sir Carl, where would Akira be going for college?" Sera asked starting a conversation.


    " It would be Audessus Essai University, He''ll be taking the exam tomorrow."


    "That''s great! You''ll be entering that university? I''ve heard they have advance technology and complete facilities." Sera said excitingly loud.


    "I''ll be looking forward to it but I''ll have to take the exam first."


    "Of course!, but I''m sure you''ll pass it anyway, you just lack on some things or someone."


    "You are perfectly right, Sera." he told Sera laughing and added to Akira:


    "See even she knows it."


    Akira didn''t say anything but grin on both of them. The conversation went on but Akira never joined in, he just listened and enjoyed eating the meal. He kept thinking what he would do once he entered the university and meet her.


    _________________________________________________________________________________________________________


    The next day Akira reached the examination room 15 minutes early and for the first time he wasn''t late. He took the exam together with other students who were late in applying for the exam. It took him 3 hrs. and it started 1 in the afternoon. He finished the exam earlier than the rest and pass his paper then left the campus. He drove to a nearest coffee shop and bought himself something to eat. After 15 minutes he decided to drive straight to a private school and waited where he usually wait. The yard beside the open court is wide and spacious to park. It was also the best place to stay where you''ll notice people coming in and out from the school building. He saw Sera then Bianca just behind here, Sera didn''t saw him but Bianca did.


    "Hey! your finally here, come! will find a more quite place." Bianca said and pulled him to the direction of the garden to find a place to sit.


    "Now, what did you want to tell me? you even asked the brat to tell me." Bianca confronted.


    "Her name is Sera, and I''ll be leaving for college by next month. I came here to tell you personally." Akira said without stopping.


    " What! are you playing me for? You told me we are going together for college. Now you came here to tell me that your leaving." Bianca said surprised and shout every words.


    "Their is a simple solution to that, you either take an exam or not? if you pass then we are in the same school."


    "You already know that I didn''t pass, and I can''t take it again. So the person who decides here is you, me or that school?" Bianca threatened.


    " Or what? we break-up? that is actually a better idea. I don''t have to listen to your nagging voice everytime we fight." Akira mentioned calmly then continued.


    " Anyway I already decided and once I pass the exam to Audessus, I''ll leave. so you don''t need to ask me again. You should be happy, your more freer to do what you want now. I''m leaving now, have a nice day Bianca." Akira said while walking away. He didn''t look back and went directly at his car. Sera was already there waiting for him, she likes to hear the good news. But before Akira could open his car he hearted Sera shout:


    "Brother! .... down, Now!" Sera shouted but was to late. Akira was hit, Sera went directly to him while the crowed were watching. Sera helped him up to his car and Bianca left after hitting him, went straight to a 4- wheel truck and sat beside someone.


    " Aha....haha..., ouch!" Sera reacted at him.


    "Ouch! this hurts a lot. Come on let''s go home."


    "Yes! that two legged reptile is done for. Good job bro."


    "You really looked satisfied, and what did she used to hit me?" Akira asked while driving with the pain.


    "Of course I am, that reptile. She was the reason who put me a lot of trouble and FYI, she''s the reason I have to report countless of times. and oh! she used someone else''s book to hit you."


    "Now that''s why it hurts, but did you start a fight again?"


    "Well..., this time it wasn''t her, it''s another person and this time it''s a guy. Ahahaha..." Sera answered laughing.


    The ride took them 20 minutes to reach the mansion. It can be seen far away, the view was eye catching. Flowers surround the mansion and different statues are seen too.


    "Akira why does the mansion has one type of flower but the statues are different?" Sera asked.


    "I only thing I know is that it was named after uncles wife, Azalea, for the statues I''m not sure." Akira answered.

 2 CHAPTER 3: LEAVING

    ONE MONTH AFTER


    (''He was running as fast as he can from a very dangerous creature. His two companions are not yet there to help him so he tried to hide and find a blind spot of the creature but wasn''t able to find one, suddenly the creature charge on him from above. He was able to dodge it by an inch. He started to sway from fatigue and blood loss. He knows and felt that he was going to pass out but before he could close his eyes two woman interfered, one with a thin sword and the other a gun, the sword cut through the creature in one fluid motion, while, the other burned it. He was close to passing out but saw what they look like, their hair and eye colour before his eyes closed.'')


    Akira woke-up from its dream and found himself sweating and tired. He was trying to remember what he was dreamt but he couldn''t. He then stood up and went to the window of his room and pull aside the curtains. The sun has risen and it was already in noon position. He tried not to think about it and fixed himself before breakfast and lunch. His uncle has already left and ate early while Sera left for school leaving him alone to eat. While waiting for the food to be served he called Sera.


    " Kira, why did you call? you do know i''m in class if I''m caught you are going to answers for it." Sera answered whispering.


    "I just want to disturb you and remind you, you forgot to wake me up."


    "Brother, please... not now I''ll put it off he''s coming." Sera answered and put it off.


    Kira finished his breakfast-lunch and was starting to go back to his room but heard the doorbell rang. The Butler answered it and gave the letter to Akira. The letter contained the written affirmation of him passing together with his schedule and others. He went directly to his room and started looking for his luggage bags and listing what he need before he forget. By the afternoon Akira has already packed his gadgets, and his clothes were next, suddenly Sera charge in his room.


    "Would you like me to help you pack?" Sera asked.


    ''Sure! Just open those drawers and bring the contents here." Akira suggested.


    "OK!" Sera replied. She started opening the drawers and throw all the contents on the bed.


    "Sera, I didn''t say to throw it at the bed, if you don''t mind try picking what should I bring, will you." Akira suggested. But Sera didn''t hear him so she continued opening all his drawers and stuffs them on the bed, Akira gave up and let her wander. Sera continued looking what to do when she saw a box on top of the top shelf of his wardrobe. She started pulling it out and opened it and found something that interest her. She saw a camera, a ring, a Swiss knife, a diary and piles of pictures lastly a framed picture of a family.


    "Akira look! What I just found. Who do you think are they?"


    "Leave it on the desk for a while and help me in packing first." Akira answered her without looking. Both continued packing and were finished an hour before dinner. All his drawers are already sorted back on their place then Sera took the box in between them, pick-up the picture frame and gave it to him.


    "Here! This is what I told you to look at." Sera suggested showing the frame. Akira took it and saw a family picture, 4 people to be exact. A man and a women with a girl holding a small infant, it was taken in the garden of his uncle''s azalea flowers. He looked closely at the girl and she looks familiar to him. The same hair colour with the girl in his dream had, reddish hair and violet irises. He was surprised to found the picture but more intrigued with the image of the girl, she must be 12-13 years old. He suddenly stand-up not minding Sera looking at the other pictures and went in the window. Sera then looked up and found his brothers expression different from usual.


    "Brother? you know you look like you have seen an ugly looking ghost." Sera ask joking with him. Akira didn''t move to acknowledge Sera if he heard her, so Sera approached him and said:


    "Hey! say something." Sera said while hitting him in the arm lightly. "Is their something wrong?"


    "It''s nothing, and although you need to improve with your jokes." Akira said then continued.


    "I just dreamed about this girl for the past years now."


    "Really? let me look at it. Hmmm.... she looks very pretty, maybe she wants to say something or you''ll meet her one day, don''t you think?"


    "I hope so." Akira replied.


    "Well, why don''t you asked your uncle. He might know something, this is his house anyway." Sera suggested


    "I''ll talk about this after dinner with him, it might be just a coincidence."


    "I don''t think its a coincidence just inevitable and their''s a reason behind it. Anyway that is what I believe in."


    Supper is being serve before both Akira and Sera were done packing. By the time they reached the dinning table his uncle was already there waiting for them. Sera was allowed to eat with them because she was also a scholar of the Roque company. They all ate together but Sera excused herself after an hour due to some school works.


    "I''ve seen the letter from Audessus University and congratulations, I hope your not planning to back-out?" Mr. Roque started speaking.


    "Don''t worry uncle I''m not planning to too. I have already packed my things because tomorrow would be the departure day." Akira replied.


    "I see."


    "Oh, uncle! Before I forget, I saw a box on top of my cabinet and there were pictures and other stuffs in it. I was hoping to ask you about a certain picture." Akira mentioned.


    "Bring it in my study after dinner and I''ll look on it." Carl answered his nephew, thinking what kind of pictures he was talking about.


    Akira left his uncle first after dinner and went to the usual area he goes to, the kitchen, the staff are still there and are used with Akira visiting them everyday. He hangout out with them to talk and help them clean up but it makes the work harder for them since they, most of the time, repeat all the things he does. After an hour with the staff he went directly to his room took the box and went directly to the study. His uncle looked at the valuables and lastly on the picture Akira wanted to ask.


    "Do you still remember what your parents look like?" His uncle started.


    "Not much, I don''t want to remember it because it gives me headache." He answered.


    "Well then, this picture is your family picture taken here in my wife''s garden. The kid here of course is you when you were 2, then your parents behind you."


    "This is what they look like. Who''s the girl holding me?"


    "Tha______t, would be your baby sitter when you were with us"


    "What''s her name?"


    "Why you ask?"


    "Nothing much, I just want to know everyone in the picture. Is there something wrong?"


    "Dinah, but everyone calls her ''INA''."


    "Could i keep this? this is my only remembrance from my parents."


    "Of course, keep it even the valuables in that box."


    Akira left after saying goodnight and decided to get some sleep before tomorrows travel, that night he didn''t dream anything about her again.


    Carl was able to breath after his nephew left, he never thought their were in his room. He just hope he has still time to find her before others do.


    _________________________________________________________________________________________________________


    Morning came and the entire household knew that the young master was leaving for the college and decided to see him leave. That means Sera planned not to go to school.


    "Sera you were right."


    "Of course, I''m right____ Wait when was I right?"


    "About yesterday, it was my family."


    "Really! that''s great, you were even cute. So is the girl there your sister then?"


    "He said she was my baby sitter, I don''t know, I''m not sure but I''ll try to look into it."


    "Maybe she''s special and your parents must be protecting her from the government."


    "Ahahahah-----------" both laugh out loud. Sera really has a very imaginative mind Akira thought.


    "Mr. Akira, you have to go now or you''ll miss your flight." Rune called from downstairs.


    "I''m coming in a minute. bye sis, don''t forget to practice we still have a rematch once I come back to visit."


    "Sure! I''ll be ready to beat you when you return."


    "I almost forget: ''Go to school Now!''."


    Akira said his goodbyes to everyone and his uncle was the last one before he was drove to the airport , he reached it at exactly 9:00. Everyone were already boarding the plane bound to Antarctica.


    "Good morning everyone, I would like to make few reminders. We are now starting to lift off, please remain calm and put off all electronics also put your sit belts on. Emergency exits are found in front to your left and at the back. we will reach our destination in 2hrs so try to relax. Thank you."


    Akira started looking around to look for one particular individual but found someone else. She was staring at him and Akira tried to be polite and smile but her eyes darkened and look away. He noticed that she was sitting beside the person who topped the exam in St. Laurence High School same school the girl she was trying to look for.


    "We have safely landed everyone, now kindly wear your warm coats because it would be cold."


    Everyone followed what the attendant said then one by one they went out and a man was waiting for them. They were ushered in a ladder beside the man going down. A vehicle large enough to carry 10-15 people each was waiting for them. It was almost circular on shape with glass above and its sides, it was named ''cell transport''. The CT then moved along the tunnels with a great speed and everyone started to hold tight. It started to slow down after 15 minutes and saw that they were underwater and some started to panic thinking that the CT was open. After a few minutes everyone started to enjoy the sight. the ride pick up speed and reach the underground of the facility inside the floating island. A lift was provided to see the school campus itself.


    "We''ve reached the campus, now then please follow me because everyone are waiting." They reached the school auditorium and were asked to sit on any empty chairs which were all in front. The school head''s assistant was asked to stand and address them.


    "Good morning ladies and gents, we are here to welcome our freshmen''s in this prestigious university. We hope that your stay be fruitful and meaningful. I won''t prolong my introduction because I know everyone are tired. May I then asked all assigned upper class-men to guide and orient our freshmen''s during their stay."


    All older students were asked to follow their respected dorm leader depending to their year and house. While the new once were given their ID with said house. Akira was at the dorm 1,''the white phoenix'', near the Essai mountains, to reach the dorm everyone has to climb a stair named as ''the stairway to heaven'' or for others ''hell''. The stair consists of 500 steps before you reached the top. All freshmen were already complaining after 30 steps.


    "Are we in the right uni? I can''t believe we don''t have an escalator." One of the freshmen asked but no one answered, they were all focus on reaching the top.


    After an hour and a half they reached the dorm and were asked to follow the room number written in their ID''s. Akira found his and saw who his roommate, he didn''t bother him and drop all his things and slept. At 3 in the afternoon he woke up and felt hungry. He decided to do sight seeing and find something to eat. He looked the school map and look where the food street was. He choose a cozy spot at the veranda of the coffee shop, the view was calming and beautiful to see.


    "Hi there! Your Akira right? I''m Arthur your roommate."


    "Hi! Nice to meet you, but how did you know my name?"


    "Simple I actually have all profiles of everyone in this island, since we were assigned to be roommates I look for your name."


    "I do admire you_______r skill but isn''t that illegal."


    "Skill, good description but I never get caught. Anyway do you mind if I wait for my sister here, and she''s late."


    "No problem, what time you were suppose to meet?"


    " 3:45."


    "15mins already pass. She must have lost her way."


    "Maybe, anyway I''ll just order while waiting but she might give up if she didn''t find this place by now."


    After an hour both left the shop and split up. Arthur went to look for her sister while, Akira went straight to the dorm and presented with an everyday obstacle, The stairs.


    "They must have spent all their resources underground that it didn''t reach here. They really need to make a faster way to reach the dorm, it''s time consuming" Akira talking to himself.


    He reached his room and unpacked, he found his family picture and the diary he decided to bring. He planned that starting tomorrow he''ll look for her and might find some answers."

 3 CHAPTER 4: THE ACADEMY

    Aye woke up early that morning because she''s scheduled to cook. She prepared eggs and toast some bread then added some hot pancakes with syrup on top for herself. She set the table and her mother came down first. They were suppose to start eating but her father decided to join them too.


    "Good morning, Wow! That looks tasty dear. Thank you." Her father commented the food.


    "Why don''t you give grace because we are going to be late." Shea asked her brother.


    Paul prayed for the food and for the rest of the day, then they all said ''AMEN!''. They ate while discussing the school Aye planned to enrol but suddenly the doorbell rang. Paul stood and check who was there, he then came back with bunch of letters. He set it on the table and started to open the first letter while Aye and her mother look for a letter to open. Shea picked the letter from Audessus Essai University, Aye opened the water and electrical bills. While, Paul called their attention.


    "We have another letter from a different school for Aye. It says here BERTRIM LUNE ACADEMY. I think I have heard it before." Paul read the envelope.


    "It''s inviting me to their school for free and there''s no entrance exam." Aye reading the letter over her father''s shoulder.


    "I remember now, that is the school Mr. Bien was talking about when we were in college. He said it was a very extraordinary school and few are given privilege to enter."


    "Why don''t we discuss this tonight because we have to leave for work, and that means you to. Also I might be late in coming home, I have a date." Shea told them.


    Both her parents left and Aye used the time to further read the letter. The envelope was in light shade of blue with her name written in silver. The paper used was translucent and empty aside from the ordinary paper along with it were the invitation was written. She looked inside the blue envelope and found a half inch bracelet. She tried it on and fitted perfectly, she decided to remove it before she cleans the table but even how much she pulls it out, it won''t loosen. To stop herself stressing out from removing the bracelet she settled the paper in the table and enjoyed drinking her favourite hot tea, now warm. While sipping her tea a few drops went in the translucent paper, she tried to wipe it off. She was busy drying the paper and her bracelet changed in style, it doubled in width and a weaving like design of black and white gold colour with 2 different flowers. She look at it and surprise to see the change. Since she''ll be late she just put the letter back in the envelope and left for work. She failed to notice that their were already words appearing in the paper.


    Her workplace is just a 10 mins drive or 30 minutes walk, she works as a cashier in a coffee shop owned by her teacher.


    "Good morning, how may I help you?" Rei asked the costumer.


    "I''ll have ice mocha latte and could you hold it for a minute?" The costumer asked while holding and talking to her phone.


    "Hey brother, what do you want me to buy?" The girl asked the person on the other side of the phone.


    "Just get me some coffee and something sweet." He replied to her.


    "OK, bye. Don''t forget you have to pick me up. Oh, miss please add some espresso and chocolate cake." the costumer said adding from her first order after talking to her phone.


    "Hey Akira are you still there? Before you leave kindly bring my sweater. Thanks." Sera turn off her phone and faced the cashier.


    "That would be 380. Would that be dine in or...?"


    "No I''ll have it ''take away'' I''m meeting my brother. Here''s an exact amount and thanks." Sera replied.


    "No problem, please find a sit and i''ll bring your order once ready." Rei replied to her costumer.


    The customer took a sit near the window while Aye continued to take orders. The shop was so busy until 5 in the afternoon. Aye didn''t notice the the time has pass by and her shift is ending. She stayed a bit longer because she has to get her payslip. She left after and went straight to the bus stop. Once inside the bus she bump-in to someone and was about to apologise.


    "Miss keren? I''m sorry I bump in to you." Rei said apologetically.


    "Yes dear, its me, and you must be Rei Aye Crimean. It''s alright, I''m fine. Why don''t we sit and lets talk?" Keren asked.


    "Yes, that''s a good idea. Where are you going?" Rei asked after they have seated.


    "I''m actually visiting a family, whose entering the Academy I''m teaching." She replied.


    "Really? And what school do you work? I didn''t asked the last time."


    "The school is not actually known but since you are a family friend to the owner it is: BERTRIM LUNE ACADEMY."


    "Oh, Bertrim Academy, hmmm..."


    "Have you heard of it? It looks like you have."


    "I don''t, I''m not sure, I might read it before. Oh, I remember they did sent me a letter this morning, anyway thanks Ms. Keren but I think this would be my stop. I hope to see you again."


    "Of course , I hope to meet you again, bye." Ms. Keren replied to her.


    Aye left the bus and started walking home but the sun has already set and getting dark. She was already halfway when she suddenly notice that it''s too quiet. She tried to walk fast and was able to normally breath in air properly as she reach the house. Aye turn around and tried to lock the gate but noticed a man few feet from her and made a step back. She tried to see who it was that scared her.


    "You must be the daughter of Mr. and Ms. Crimean? you are Rei Aye Crimean. I''m here to talk to your parents, are they home?". Rei couldn''t speak for a while so the stranger asked her again.


    "Miss Rei, are your parents home? I don''t have the whole night."


    "Uh____mm sorry, who are you again? I''ll tell them about it." Aye asked and before the man could answer, the front door opened and here father was there.


    "Aye! I knew it was you. Who are you with?" Her father asked.


    "Father, this man says, he would like to talk to you."


    "Okay let him in and dinner is ready."


    Aye opened the gate and let the man in. Her father asked the man to eat with them and he asked the man''s name.


    "I''m from Bertrim lune Academy, name is Mich and I''m here to talk to you if possible without your daughter."


    "Okay, why don''t we eat first then before we talk." Paul suggested.


    The stranger named Mich then joined them for dinner until it was time for Aye to leave. That was also the time that her mother was now home. She went directly to her room, found the letter she opened and remove it in the envelop, she now notice some markings in it. She tried to read it until she reached the end of the letter. The only thing she can pronounce were the flowers while the rest were gibberish to her. It wrote: ''Eht fern taht detaert morf chamomile dna fir.'' She tried to say it out loud expecting something to happen but nothing so she left it open and listen to music. Before the next music start she heard someone knocking from her window. She look at it but saw no one. She opened her veranda to look outside, again she find and saw no one. While walking back to her room she heard someone say her name.


    "Hello, Rei."


    "Mr. Bien? You surprised me. Why are you here in my room? Dad is talking to someone from your school, would you like me to tell them you''re here?


    "I''m sorry, I actually wanted to talk to you without your parents. I send him to talk to them about the school but for you I plan on showing it if your up for it? Would you like to go tonight?" Mr. Bien asked her.


    "Yes of course but now? You mean literally now?" Rei asked repeatedly.


    "Yes Ms. Crimean, now. This is the only available time I have anyway. You coming?" Mr. Bien asked while walking to her veranda.


    "Would we back before they check on me?" Rei asked to confirm.


    "Yes! We will be done in 2 hrs max."


    Finally Aye agreed and they both left through the balcony scaling it down, Aye was both nervous and excited. Nervous that she agreed to follow a person her parents only knows and a stranger to her but excited because she''ll finally see the school that no one has seen. Mr. Bien drove into the largest library in the city and they both went inside the building connected to the main structure, they took the stairs going down then in the elevator going 15 ft. down then sideways until they reached the port. It was private only a yacht and a large ship is dock. They both went straight inside the ship, stayed in the view deck and they it started to sail. The fog was thick making hard to see even to breath in, it stung her nose that she keep pressing it near the bridge, then she saw the storm coming.


    "How could they know were we are going? The storm is even approaching us or I mean we are approaching it." Aye asked nervously.


    "Do not worry, we need the fog to mask our way in and the storm to enter it. Just watch."


    "What! I thought we are going to your school not to get us killed. Are you kidding? Ah... No your actually serious? I hope your right." Aye asked while looking at him and holding on the railings tight.


    "We are, the school is built and found in an island surrounded by the sea, a place where few humans have ever stayed in or even seen it, its the Bermuda triangle as others might call it."


    "Now I know why you called it Bertrim, but isn''t no one ever come back from there? Please could we just find another route. I still want to travel and to ________________" Aye wasn''t able to finish her sentence because the storm hit them. The ship started spinning for the next 5 minutes until it tries to stay on course. It only took 5 minutes to reach the other side but Aye felt she traveled longer in that storm.


    "We are here, look! Those 2 islands that are shaped into a present moon are the dorms. The larger island is where the school is built."


    Once they were at shore Mr. Bien started showing her around the school campus then in the market area where she notice unusual creatures even the language were different. She tried not to stare and kept pinching herself, thinking she might be hallucinating or dreaming. She wanted to laugh but stop herself, they might think she''s laughing at them. Actually she wanted to laugh about their language she describe it as ''Flowery words'' literally flowery.


    "Now Ms. Rei, what do you think? I know you have other universities in mind but I hope you would also consider this place. You might be surprised on those you see and learn, I''m sorry about that I always forget that you are new to this. You are a smart lady and you could do so many things in this school."


    "Thank you sir, I''ll consider it. I was actually surprised aside from reaching this place safe, meeting them and also hearing them speak I feel somewhat calmer after the trip."


    Both walked back but the ship already left so they used the yacht going back. They still went through the storm and the experience was still heart pumping. They reached the port after 20 minutes giving Aye less than 20 minutes to go home. They retrace back their steps until they were already driving back to Aye''s home.


    "Good night Ms. Rei, hope to hear from you. Also I hope that your dream of traveling and others do come true." Mr. Bien said.


    "Ah______hahaha. Sorry about that but thank you again and good night sir.." Rei replied embarrassed after remembering the ordeal.

 4 CHAPTER 5: PLAN CHANGES

    "Mr. and Ms. Crimean, thank you for the dinner and for listening. I hope that your daughter would consider our school." The stranger said.


    "Thank you, but will have to talk to her about this." Shea replied.


    "I understand I''ll be leaving then."


    The stranger left and both Paul and Shea called their daughter to talk to her. Outside the stranger was picked up by a gray car, Mr. Bien was waiting for him.


    "Aye dear, we know that you were thinking of going to EU but we also want you to have options if you like we will give you a bit of background then you decide. How''s that?"


    "It''s fine with me, go ahead mom."


    Aye listened and never tried to interrupt, as her mother describe and list all the school qualities, she tries to remember how it looks like from her tour.


    "Aren''t both school proposed the same?" Aye asked.


    "Yes they have, I was also thinking of that. Anyway whatever school you choose would be fine with us."


    "Did he mention where the school located?" Aye inquired.


    "Well yes, it is found near Puerto Rico. A small island near it."


    "That''s good to know then." Aye answered thinking that the stranger didn''t actually lie but omitted some specifics.


    They continued discussing but Aye was still undecided and it was already getting late. They all went to sleep.


    *Rei''s Dream*


    ''A girl with a raven black hair with almost gray eye color was standing alone in the middle of a garden near the hospital. Aye realise that she''s at the Academy in different time. The lady looks young more like 15 years old and bleeding. Suddenly a man took her inside a room and tried to control her profuse bleeding coupled by labor pains but unable too. They decided to let her deliver, and it was a baby girl. The baby was put her in an incubator for it was only 29 weeks. The lady went unconscious after delivering her child. Aye decided to look at the infant but someone block her line of sight.''


    Aye woke up troubled and decided to sit herself upright then went in her bathroom. Inside her bathroom she look at her reflection and saw the same eye color with the girl in her dream, she look closely to her eyes and they are light shade of of gray then turns to silver when the moon light cast out its light.


    -----------------------------------------------------------?------------------------------------------------


    "Good morning, Aye" Both her parents called out.


    "Good morning too mom, dad." she replied.


    "Good morning dear. Since everyone is present why don''t we give thanks before we eat together." Paul said and they gave thanks to the almighty father.


    "Well, I have already decided which school I''ll be attending to." Rei started the conversation.


    "Really! It''s Audessus University right?" Shai asked while Paul


    "Really! It''s Bertrim Academy right?" Both said in unison that Aye started laughing and both joined in.


    "That was unexpected, but I have chosen EU. Sorry dad."


    "Well there''s nothing wrong about it, its fine." Her dad replied.


    For the next 2 days Aye listed what to bring and packed what she thinks she''ll need. After another day of finalising her list and things she was ready to leave the next day.


    "You have grown to a young lady and this will be the start of your journey. I want you to be careful and never forget to call us." Shea said trying to control her tears from flowing.


    "We have taught you for the pass 18 years of your life and I hope you never forget them. We''ll always pray for you." Paul added and gave her a kiss on the forehead.


    "Thanks mom, dad. I will never forget what you taught me and I''ll call once I''m settled. Bye." Aye replied and kiss them both in their cheeks.


    She pulled her luggage in the waiting area for 30 minutes because she was early for the boarding time. She stayed near the glass window viewing the planes. After a while the plane she''ll be boarding was called and she went to line up. Once seated she drifted to sleep.


    *DREAM*


    ''She''s back in the Academy but this time the girl was still pregnant and she''s inside the library trying to look for a book. Aye approached her to try to talk to her.''


    "Excuse me miss, may I pass? My sit is next to you." A young man asked might be the same age as her.


    "I''m sorry." Aye answered letting the man pass, realizing that she fell asleep.


    Aye was intrigued with her dream, twice she dreamed of her. She doesn''t believe in coincidence and didn''t wait for another minute to decide. She asked the flight attendant that she''s not going and took her bags with her. Once out she called her mother.


    "Hello mom, its me. (Silence) I''m sorry to say I changed my mind and I''ll go at Bertrim. I''m really really sorry mom." Aye said once her mother answered the phone.


    "________ are you still in the airport?" Shea asked.


    "Yes, I''m really sorry about this."


    "Don''t worry about it, I''m not angry just surprised I guessed. Anyway wait for us and will pick you up and try to contact the other school."


    "Thanks mom, but don''t worry I can manage it from here. I''ll contact them."


    "If that is what you like dear. Just be careful. Yes?"


    Aye closed her phone after talking to her mother and ride a cab going to the city library. Once inside she looks around to ask for instructions and found the librarian talking to a student. She approached her and called her attention by waving her hand. The librarian notice her and asked.


    "You must be a new student for Bertrim Academy right?" the Librarian asked.


    "Yes mam, but how did you know?" Rei anwered.


    "Your bracelet, all student entering that school has its own key."


    "So this is a key. For what exactly?"


    "Come! Follow me. " Aye followed her until they were underground and notice a door.


    "Just read the words written in the very bottom part of the letter given to you and this door will open. The bracelet would activate the door as your Identification, its like your personal ID. Once open their will be other students waiting like you. Well then I have to go back I''ll leave you now."


    "Thanks, but how should I read this?" Aye asked but she already left her. Aye tried to read it in her mind until it was more fluent for her to say it out loud.


    "I, (name) Wohs eht yaw." Aye said clearly out loud and the door started to scan her until it lands to her bracelet. The door opened and she entered with her bags with her. She wasn''t alone, their were at least 50 people. They were asked to board a shuttle and she found an empty sit. While she was trying to load her things suddenly someone bump her and her small bag fell. She didn''t bother to look at her but felt the persons eyes are on her and continued fixing her things. She decided to stay out of her site from now on.

 5 CHAPTER 6: THE TOUR

    ["Akira, come now! pick-up your toys we''re leaving." A girl said to him.


    "Mom, dad, I''m done. I''ll carry Akira to the car."


    "Sure dear, wait for 2 minutes and we''ll be there" their mother answered. After a while, they left the villa and reached someone else''s home, a family friend.


    "Dear, stay with Akira and play with him for a while, please."


    "Sure mom, don''t worry I''ll stay with him"


    The girl played to a 2 year old kid. The kid hide and laughed trying to play hide and seek. After an hour he got tired and sat on the lap of the girl and drifted to sleep.]


    Akira again dreamed of a girl but this time he can''t hear anything. He tried to get some sleep but his black alarm clock started ringing. The sun was starting to rise, its rays are already visible. He went directly to the bathroom and realise that his roommate was not in the room. After showering he went straight to the cafeteria.


    Food were already being served from rice to pasta and breads and some vegetables and fruits. Some sweet foods were also present with over flowing hot drinks. He was hungry and started picking, took his food and look for a place to sit. He choose the veranda and took his phone, he decided to call her sister, and Sera answered after the fifth ring.


    "Hi brother! How''s the school? And... congratulations you woke up early."


    "I haven''t seen the entire school yet. I''ll tell you once I''m done this morning and thank you. See I can do it, I can be responsible." Akira said answering all her questions.


    "No problem, but I''m sorry I can''t stay long in the phone I''ll be late. Bye see you soon." Sera answered and end the conversation. Thinking when did Sera put and set the alarm on his bag.


    "Hey Akira! Good your up, it means the alarm worked. We have to go, all the freshmen''s are asked to go straight at the school ground before 8:30." Arthur said.


    "Uh______, thanks. Go ahead I''ll catch up." Akira ate his food and wanted to laugh but stop himself. He thanked the wrong person for the clock. He became more excited today because he might meet the girl again.


    He was able to find Arthur and his sister in the crowd.


    "Arthur! I''m I late?" Akira asked.


    "No! Your just in time, and I want you to meet my sister, Analyze. Ana this is Akira my roommate."


    "Pleasure to meet you." Akira started.


    "Uh_____m, nice to meet you too." Ana answered. She continued to look ahead while holding his brothers arm. She left them after her new friends called her.


    "Sorry about that, she''s having some personal problems." Arthur tried to explain.


    "That''s alright, good thing she doesn''t hate you." Akira joked.


    The school ground was still moist from morning dew. They were all asked to walk and most of them started complaining. They entered the forest and the trees are so tall and wide that the sun rays only touch the peaks. The hike was a hour walk that one student, who''s falling behind, wanted to ask for a rest but a shuttle came to view and gave her enough energy to run for it. Everyone who saw it started laughing others was just surprised, who said she should wear her heals today. Once all student found there sits a man and a woman entered.


    "Good morning everyone! I am Allen Clark th..th..e headmaster''s second -in- command. I was ask t...to..to accompany you du..du..ring this tour. Plea..plea..se, Ms. Howthorne you may sta..sta..rt."


    "Good morning again. As we start this orientation and tour I would like everyone to look under your sits and get your own copy of the school handbook and updated school map. What you are going too hear during this day are some of the basic rules and regulations. The rest are written inside your handbooks. Reminder, do not lose them." The shuttle started to move to the first place, they''ll reach it in 30 minutes.


    "During the entire tour no one is allowed to jump out, nor stand while we are moving. Rule 1: No student, specially freshmen''s are allowed to enter the forest without supervision or consent from the headmaster itself."


    "Why? We are already inside." One of the student asked.


    "Simple! This is just the edge of the forest. Once you enter your sophomore year then you''ll understand why. We are now getting close to the shore, 2nd: swimming time are 5 am to 7 am in the morning and 5 pm to 7 pm in the evening. Beyond those time no one is allowed to come and swim, to prevent accidents." All were permitted to go near but not allowed to swim after 30 minutes they went back and the shuttle went to the school public area.


    "3rd: In the business section, those who work and own these are former and present students. You are not to disrespect nor create disturbances in any establishments we have here. 4th: maintain cleanliness in any places in this university. 5th: The school has a policy on equality. All the rules has no exceptions specially rule 3. Now it''s almost lunch time, everyone will have until 1:30 pm for lunch before we leave. Be here before that time, thank you." Ms, Howthorne ended.


    All freshmen''s where so hungry that they left the shuttle fast. The last persons who went out were Analyze, Arthur, and Akira. They started walking around and look for a place to eat.


    " Arthur, lets dine outside." Analyze suggest.


    "Sure, Akira come along. Now what are we going to eat?"


    "Here''s the menu, I have already chosen." Analyze said. The other two also ordered and the server left.


    "I''ve heard from your brother that your a skilled fighter, Ms. Analyze."


    "Did he? Well I am just able to do things. Thanks." Analyze look at her brother.


    "That''s what she always say but for me, she''s the best. mentioning that, I knew someone who is also good as her, she''s just good at hiding it. I''m not sure if she saw me since I never saw her again." Arthur answered not looking at Analyze.


    The food was served after 15 minutes and the three enjoyed eating while talking about other foods. That was the first time he saw Analyze talk animatedly. After eating they still have 20 minutes before 1.


    They decided to walk while drinking their cold drinks but Ana accidentally drop hers and her drink stained the sidewalk. Everyone who pass make sure not to step on it and some of them were Mr. Clark and Ms. Howthorne.


    "Oh my! Be careful not to spill more. For now go back to the shuttle and I''ll ask someone to clean it. Next time you now what to do." Ms. Howthorne.


    "Yes Mr. Howthorne." They said all together.


    All students were starting to enter the shuttle and left. After a few minutes Ms. Howthorne started addressing them again.


    "Next stop is the school''s owned training hospital. It was the first building built before the university was established. We accept outside patients as long as its needed. As I have mentioned it is a Tertiary hospital, it means it has its own up-to-date facility and a diagnostic team. All students are free to avail of the services. What you must remember, 6th: prevent creating unnecessary noise while in the vicinity. 7th: no disrespecting any personnel and clients. 8th: no loitering in the recreation and rehab areas of the hospital they are for the patients alone. 9th: to all medical and any medically related students are required to remembered and know by heart the hospital''s mission, vision and officers. Now I am allowing everyone to see the place for 30 min. then come back.". After the time was consumed they all left the place.


    "We are now going to our last stop, the school itself, after that you''ll all meet the school president." The shuttle went straight to the school ground and everyone enjoyed the scenery then the five main school buildings were now visible. Behind the building are two sky scrapers.


    "Before you are the four main departments and the school library offered by the university. Starting at your left the Art and Sciences department, political science and law department, science of technology department, the school library, lastly the Business admin and management with the literature department. This dome shape structure over here is our auditorium. Before we enter any questions?"


    "What about the two infrastructures behind the SAT department and library? Are they also part of the campus?" Arthur''s ask raising his hand and pointed the place.


    "That would be the President''s house and the School Board''s quarters when visiting or during important discussions. The place is off limits unless a letter is presented to the guards."


    "It''s huge for few people, he must be bidding something." One student said jokingly.


    "Whatever, that''s only in the movies." One answered back at him.


    Both Mr. Clark and Ms. Howthorne didn''t say anything but smiled. Mr. Clark tried to get their attention even if he keeps having speech problem. But still directed them to the school auditorium.

 6 CHAPTER 7: Mr. TRISTAN CROSS

    SCHOOL AUDITORIUM


    "Good afternoon everyone, we are here today to welcome our freshmen''s. We would personally welcome you all and now let us all welcome Mr. Tristan Cross, our beloved president with Mr. Clark, his assistant." The emcee introduced and left the stage. Everyone clapped and welcomed the president that they rarely sea and excited that they can see him again.


    "He..he..hello! Every o..one I''m Mr. Clark, a..a..and this m..m..man beside m..m..me is our ho..ho..honourable Mr. Cross."


    All eyes went to the man beside him and surprised on what they saw. Everyone recognise him as the old man who walks along the school campus on ragged clothes. They usually talk behind his back when he passes. Most of the claps were headed by the teachers and new comers while the rest were stunned to react.


    "Judging from your faces, I would conclude that I look familiar from the old man that roams around school and why would a weak old man like me is still running a school this huge?" Everyone that recognise him lowered their heads while others whispers and tried to sneak a peek, some compared them with their grandfathers.


    "Anyway, I am old in age and appearance but I can tell you I''m strong enough to still be managing this school. All of you students, came from a respectable home and I hope you''ll all learn not only academics but also right attitude. I also would like to welcome all our freshmen''s hoping that your batch be better than your seniors... May you enjoy your stay here and I''ll leave everyone this message: ''Knowledge and wisdom is a must but comes with patience.'' Thank you."


    All students clapped their hand and waited for further instructions. Freshmen''s has to stay for their lecture on all departments to further understand and know who will manage them. At 4 pm the day ended, suddenly Akira''s phone rang and he excused himself. Analyze also left his brother leaving Arthur to wait for Akira.


    "Uh____ where''s your sister?" Akira asked after his call.


    "She left, who called?" Arthur asked


    "My sister, her name is Sera." Akira replied


    "So___ you have a sister? How old is she''s?"


    "She''s 14 and still in High school, why you ask?"


    "Nothing, I didn''t know you have a sister, their was no record of you having one."


    "Record? Oh! I get it my profile. That''s because she''s not my biological sister just someone I consider as one. She''s the daughter of my uncle''s butler."


    "Now I understand, we better go or we''ll be late for dinner I still need to change my shoes."


    Dinner time came and good thing it was a buffet style. Everyone already has gotten their food and grace was done by one of the instructors then everyone started to eat and chat. The dinning hall was set by the first group "White phoenix" are near the windows on the right, opposite them the second dorm "silver dragon", the last dorm is named " Blue swan" at the back creating a space in the middle. Their was a 3rd group before it was in ruins and was named "Black hawk" until now no one knows what happened and was never restored.


    "I keep noticing you looking around since yesterday, you should ask me already what or who are you looking for." Arthur''s whispered.


    "Its not that important, I was sure I would see the person again." Akira pondered.


    "Who? Have I met her or do I know her?" Arthur inquired.


    "Hmm____ I don''t remember her name but its a yes and yes to answer your question."


    "So I met her and I know her. Try describing her."


    "Simple you beat her during the entrance exam."


    "Hmm_____ no way! You mean Rei Aye Crimean, she''s my schoolmate. I don''t know her that much. From what I know she decided to enter the uni but saw her leave the plane. She just talk to the attendant and left. From what I have in her profile, she has the Same IQ with me, she''s friendly and tries to help everyone. Some of the guys tries to ask her out but she never actually dated anyone. Remember I mentioned I know someone who is like my sister as a fighter, that''s her. You just miss her, if you came 5 minutes early you might have bump into her."


    "It was, a bad timing for me then." Akira answered disappointed.


    "Maybe, but why are you looking for her? Are you also an admirer of her? Ha...? " Arthur teased but both just laughed at what Arthur said.

 7 CHAPTER 8: FIRST DAY - AKIRA

    "Is their something wrong about our school hand book?" Akira asked seeing Arthur reading and editing it.


    "None actually, I''m just trying to remember it. Come on we better leave for breakfast before our class starts."


    Both left for breakfast and after an hour they decided to go to class. A woman entered after a while put her things in front and greeted her class.


    "Good morning everyone, I''m Sophia Wane. I''ll be your instructor for your literature and other business admin class. I only have one rule: I don''t mind you eating, sleeping, or playing during my class as long as you are able to answer when called and pass my class. Why don''t we start by introducing yourselves."


    "This is the reason why I hate school, quizzes, exams, and reading." Akira whispered to Arthur.


    "At least she doesn''t mind sleeping." Arthur teased.


    Introductions lasted longer than expected but Ms. Wane was able to give her course outline for the semester. She started explaining what are the specific literature books they are going to tackle and why. They were also going to discuss about totems in depth.


    The first day of class was all about house rules and curriculum. Although Akira didn''t have any problem, he tend to do something else than listen. This went the whole day, by 3 in the afternoon Akira went to his 2 major subjects while Analyze and Arthur were done by 3 pm too. Analyze was waiting for her brother and smiled once he saw him and approached him but before they could decide were to go a girl came to them. She''s one of Ana''s classmate and her dorm mate. The girl asked Arthur to join them for a while, Arthur tried to explain that he can''t but Akira suddenly came and push him to go and be back before dinner. Analyze didn''t say a word and just watched her brother leave after kissing her forehead. He was with the girl that hates her since that day they arrived. Akira didn''t notice Analyz''s reaction so he asked her if they could have some snacks together. Ana just followed him and still said nothing even when they reached a place and sat.


    "Why?" Ana asked suddenly after the long silence.


    "Uh___ sorry, what you mean ''why''?" Akira asked confused


    "WHY. DID. YOU. DO. THAT. TO. MY. BROTHER.?" Analyz asked angrily.


    "Sorry Analyze, I don''t know. I just thought it would be a change for him to go." Akira explained.


    "Uhmm____, excuse me, may I take your orders?" A server asked.


    "I''ll have some coffee and a sandwich. Thank you."


    "How about the young lady?"


    "Just something cold to drink." Analyze answered flatly and the server left with their orders.


    "Why?" Akira asked after few minutes watching her.


    "Why what?" She asked facing him annoyed.


    "Why do you hate people who gets near you or your brother? It was just an observation." Akira asked hoping she''ll trust him.


    Analyze was surprised but never showed it in her face. She knew he was observant but to asked her like they were friends was a surprise. She finally found an answer that would stop him from asking her, hopefully.


    "It''s not that I _________ hate everyone who gets near my brother or me. It''s just, I don''t feel comfortable with certain individuals, and please don''t asked who they are." She said finally looking at her drinks that was brought while she was explaining.


    Akira partly understand what she means but he knows how hard to tell someone or maybe to trust anyone and he didn''t ask further. After fifteen minutes Arthur found them looking tired from running.


    " Hey! Are you too done? Let''s go, everyone were asked to go in the school ground."


    "Okey, we are behind you, let''s go Analyze." Akira said while extending his hand for her. Analyze hesitate for a moment but took it after while her brother called them again. Before they can reached the ground Mr. Clark was already addressing the audience.


    "... the reason that someone tried to hack our system last night. The school suggest that, that person or those who are involved to better step up. A suspension will be given once the culprit is known. That''s all you may all have a good day, sorry for the inconvenience." Most of the student started making guesses, who might have done it. While the rest went to their own class.


    The last class is history, one of the minor subjects needed to be taken by everyone. He choose to sit at the back beside him was a person overly dressed like a chandelier. She was wearing a lot of jems. He tried to hide laughing but she noticed him.


    "Hi!" She said.


    "Hello!" He replied.


    "Are you Akira Roque? this is great! I''ve heard a lot about you from my father." She said smiling.


    "I am Akira, and who''s your father? Sorry I''m not aware that I became a topic to a conversation."


    "He''s Allan Fleur Bronte." She answered.


    "I see, well why don''t you tell me any story you know that they allowed a lady to hear it."


    "We____ll I was actually eavesdropping, so I only heard about looking for a lady or more of a wife for you. But they say it would take a century before that happens."


    "Hmm___, that''s new, thanks anyway. Ms. Bronte." Before she could say anything else the class started.


    "Good afternoon class, I''m Ms. Howthorne. I would be your History instructor and any related sciences like politics and constitutions for those who are taking law. Since today is the first day I''d like to know everyone by their name. I want everyone to stand up and tell me in a sentence, using your knowledge in history, who among all known people would best describe your personality. After 2 mins we are going to start in my right, timer start now."


    Some of the students started flipping pages for reference, others just tried to remember by memory, while the rest stayed calm. Akira decided not to pressure himself and recalled a memory when he was with his parents. They went into a church during Christmas eve in France. He is carried by someone and didn''t saw the face. He looked around the structure the design was simple and not elaborated like the other huge cathedrals. It was spacious with tinted windows depicting a story. The choir has a mesmerising voice that put young Akira to sleep. That memory made him drift to sleep to. After a few minutes everyone was waking him up even Ms. Howthorne.


    "Mr. Roque, I hope you have a good reason or an explanation? Would you mind telling us about yourself."


    "Uh____, Sorry about that." He started thinking how to answer.


    "We ____ll, I would say. They are a lot but if we are talking about one character of mine my sister usually would agree that ''Jose Mercado Y'' Rizal'' a Philippine national hero. She always tell me that I have ways in meeting women anywhere." Akira mentioned while trying to be serious. Everyone in the room look at each other until someone snorted and laughed saying.


    "Good one! Good thing your taller than he was." Others joined him and the rest were smiling.


    "Mr. Roque, I think you have good sense of humor but you must have judge the person too quickly. And may I remind you don''t let me catch you sleeping in my class again." Ms. Eyre replied smiling.


    "Now, I''ll be seeing you again tomorrow. As an early assignment start reading on the school foundation."


    Akira left and was thankfully it was over. While he was going down from the stairs he saw Analyze taking to two people and decided to meet her. He started walking near them when suddenly Analyze saw him with a relieve smile seen in her face. She too started walking towards him.


    "Hey! Akira, your late we were suppose to meet 5 minutes ago."


    "Uh____ " Akira wasn''t sure what happened and just smiled and shrugged his shoulders.


    "So she''s your girlfriend? Not bad!" The taller one said.


    "Technically I''m not yet her boyfriend. Say_____ for seniors to scare a freshmen''s only happens in high school. Last time I check I''m in Uni." Akira said and added to Analyze.


    " let''s go, we have to meet someone." Akira held his hand and Ana took in and followed Akira.


    "They were right about you, you know. Blessed with looks and wealth since birth and of course let as not forget a heart-breaker. Expected to a person who has all, right?." The other guy said.


    Akira didn''t bother to turn around and just continued to walk with Ana with him. They both reached the cafeteria and took their sit.


    "SORRY!" both said at the same time.


    "Ah___ go ahead, why you said sorry?" Akira asked.


    "Because I felt that I drag you to help without your knowledge and cause trouble."


    "That''s alright, I least I was able to help aside my sister." Akira answered.


    "My turn, why did you say sorry?" She asked.


    "I just realise that I drag you from the school ground until we reached the cafeteria."


    "Hmm___, it still hurts but I''m fine. Do you mind if I ask you a question?" Ana asked.


    "About what? Just don''t ask what I do during my free time." Akira said and Analyze laughed for a while, then she asked.


    "Sorry, I just want to know what do you mean about your sister?"


    "Well____, to my uncle I''m a bit of a failure and a brat. Even those who works with my uncle has the same view of me while my sister, I''m her tutor, friend, and companion specially when we play tennis."


    "I get it, last question. What did you mean about not my____ boyfriend yet?"


    "I wanted to ask you out but you don''t feel comfortable around men, except your brother. I''m waiting for the right time."


    "I see, if you stay with me until next semester. I might say yes." Analyze said watching him. Akira didn''t know if he heard her right but smiled.


    "Your serious right?" he asked after a few more minutes, triying not to show how happy he is.


    "I am." She replied.


    "Next semester then, I hope your prepared." Akira mentioned while grinning. Analyze just look at him.


    "Whatever, you still need to date me." Analyze supplied. Before Akira could add a remark someone came.


    "Hello Lyz, I see that you too are getting along. How was your class, both of you? I hope better then mine." Arthur said and asked in the same time.


    "It was fine brother, my instructor was a bit boring but I can manage." Analyz replied.


    "Mine was interesting, I accidentally slept during the getting-to-know part. Ms. Howthorne was kind enough not to lexture." Akira explained casually while Ana was trying to eat.


    "What! You slept!" Analyze said realising that she raised her voice, which she rarely does.


    "Sorry" she added.


    "Okey, you have to tell us. What happened that you actually slept in the middle of the day." Arthur asked.


    "I''m not sure I just knew I slept after everyone started calling my name." Akira tried to explain.


    "Oh well, at least you had a better day. Mine gives me the headache." Arthur said.


    For the next days of their class they continue to meet every now and then due to different schedule. Arthur taking up information tech, Analyze Geology, and business admin by Akira. Akira and Analyze''s relationship is getting better while Arthur was happy and relieved to leave them alone. Arthur never tried to pursue anyone and that makes every girl to hung around him more.

 8 CHAPTER 9: THE MISSING

    "Excuse me sir someone wants to see you. His name is Detective Crow." Rune informed his employer. Mr. Crow is in his mid forties and still a formidable man. With dark hair and hazel eyes.


    "Let him in, please." Mr. Roque answered him and the detective was ushered in.


    "Hello Mr. Crow, have a sit. Would you like something to drink?" Mr. Roque asked.


    "Thank you, a glass of water would be fine." Rune left after taking the unusual request and asked the maid to bring it. After a few minutes the maid came and left her employer and the guest with their drinks.


    "What news do you have for me today?" Mr. Roque directly asked once they were alone.


    "I have sir a good and a bad news. I won''t be asking which one you prefer but let me start in the beginning. The girl you asked me to look for was last seen 13 years ago, near a the port. Witnesses mentioned that she''s alone and boarded a private ship no one saw her again after that. Although she stayed in the Island for a month before she left." Mr. Crow stopped and look at his employer''s reaction then continued.


    "What I mentioned is both a good and bag news. A lady I talk too also mentioned that your niece is pregnant, estimated at 3 months. I might assume that she must be afraid to come back home." He ended.


    "Are you telling me that I have to look for two people? Who got her pregnant?" Mr. Roque asked after a few minutes of silence.


    "That would be her fiance, unfortunately he died 5 years ago. He died trying to look for her in the northern continent. If you still plan on continuing this search, may I suggest to at least add 2 people to work for me?" The detective asked boldy.


    "Do you still have other news? and you may add more men."


    "I have hunches but I was not hired for that. I''ll tell you more once we find the ship she boarded and thank you." Mr. Crow replied.


    Mr. Crow left the mansion after 30 minutes, while Mr. Rogue continued his work. Unaware that someone heard them in the garden and was now quietly leaving.


    ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________


    "Dad, can I ask you something?" Sera asked.


    "What is it?" Rune asked her daughter.


    "We____ll does Akira has a sister, older sister perhaps?" She started to asked.


    "Where did get that idea of Kira having a sister?" Her father answered.


    "Hm____ promise me that you won''t get mad once I tell you." Sera asked while his father study her and sigh.


    "Okey, just tell me." He conceded.


    "I was in the garden picking some flowers when I over heard Mr. Roque and a man talking about a girl who''s missing, who is also his niece. Since Mr. Roque has only one brother I assumed that they were talking about Akira''s sister." She explained.


    "Sera, try not to think of it. No one from this household knows the history and family tree of the Rogue''s. I don''t want you telling this to anyone without proof. Am I understood?" Her father''s reply to her.


    "Sure dad, I''ll just go up and finish my homework then." Sera replied trying to decide if she would tell his brother about it or not.


    Rune finished his morning duty and prepared for his master''s meal. He went directly to the library were Mr. Roque would be.


    "Is there something else you need, Rune?" Mr. Roque asked.


    "Sir I would just like to inform you that someone overheard your conversation with the detective." Rune answered.


    "Did this person tell you what was heard?" He asked.


    "Yes sir, my daughter actually asked about it." He replied.


    "I see." Mr. Roque responded calmly.


    "Don''t worry sir, I have talk to her and your nephew would not hear it from her." Rune promised.


    "Thanks Rune. I''m hoping to tell him, once we found her and its already too long. Thank you again you may leave now." He ended.


    "Of course sir, excuse me." Rune said and started to leave.


    "Wait! Did Akira called this day?" He asked.


    "Yes, he did sir. But he called my daughter''s phone and not the landline." Rune replied.


    "That''s fine, she''s a good influence for him." Mr. Roque finally said.


    Rune left and continued going through the whole day without problems.

 9 CHAPTER 10: BERTRIM LUNE ACADEMY

    Aye was surprised that the woman who bumped her is angry. There is something wrong with this picture but she didn''t let this bother her and decided to take a sit. The guy beside her was kind enough to ask her if she needed help.


    "Uh___, thanks." Rei said.


    "No problem, my name is Jade by the way." He answered smiling while helping her.


    "Oh! Sorry, I''m Rei and its nice to meet you." She answered raising her right hand for a handshake.


    "In the same way, pleasure to meet you. Better put your seat belts on, the ride is a bit bumpy. It will only take 30 minutes to cover 18 km distance." Jade explained to her


    "Really? That''s good, we''ll be there faster." She replied and Jade just grin at her.


    Rei put on her seat belt and was anticipating the ride but she underestimated its speed. It felt like riding a jet plane although she never rode any plane before now she knows why Jade was grinning at her.


    The ''pad'' went down for 5 minutes then forward out to the underwater tunnel that showed an amazing view. Sea creatures in various sizes and colors even those you rarely see, deep sea corals and huge variety of fishes. The view took 20 minutes then a 5 minutes pass before the ride stop. The older once are already leaving while the freshmen''s were feeling dizzy and few enjoyed it. Rei carefully removed her seat belt and tried to stand while Jade was waiting for her with her bag.


    "Thanks again. Uh___, what year are you? You don''t look like a freshmen?"


    "Guilty, I''m in my junior year. I took this ride because I was late."


    Before Rei could say anything someone called Jade from the crowd. Both look and Rei remembered her, the same woman who bump her. She tried excusing herself but wasn''t successful.


    The intercom sounded and announced that all freshmen are asked to go straight to the school ground. The space was wide and can hold a lot of people. A lake is positioned in the left side facing the small platform, it was clear and it shimmers under the sun.


    "Good afternoon everyone I am William Bien the school head manager. I would like to personally welcome everyone. As a sign of our appreciation please enjoy the dance your seniors planned to perform. We call this dance as ''Fleur Dance'', in other words flower dance."


    The dance was wonderful to watch, each colours representing different shades of a flower and its kind. The steps varies from fast to slow depending on the tempo, such a fluid grace. Their movements represent the plant''s character. The entire presentation took 10 minutes and all clapped their hands after.


    "Now!, I hope everyone enjoyed that. Seeing that all are tired, you may go to your respective dorms and rest. Tomorrow would be your tour on our school ground." Mr. Bien said ending the welcoming event.


    The school head senior left after giving instructions to the seniors. Every new students are ask to look at the master list to know which dorm and room they''ll be in. All seniors assigned for the dorms were starting to call out. Aye followed and sat in a boat that can carry 18 passengers at a time. They reached another island and after a 10 minutes of walk from the port, they were able to see the dorm. The island is not small nor big but the 8 storey mansion almost occupies the entire land. It has a bit of a Athens'' style of its columns and color in the outside, while in the inside the entire hallway are carpeted. Their are at least 4 guards monitoring the dorm, two for each wing of the mansion. Aye decided to look for her room number and it was in the 4th floor. The dorm is divided into to wings, the right for the females and left side for the males. While Aye is trying to look for her room every students are out in their rooms and into the hallway. This made Aye''s journey long, she did her best to navigate and prevent herself from being hit by a book or bag or even to be accidentally shout at. Reaching the 4th floor she realised that her room is in the end of the hall and opened its open. Her roommate was not yet there and started unpacking when suddenly someone entered and greeted her.


    "Welcome! our freshmen roommate ______. WHAT! NO WAY! YOU!!!" the woman that she met early that day said.


    "Yeah! Its a pleasure to meet you and... thank you?" Aye answered questionably.


    "My, my, Isn''t this interesting, anyway my chrysanthemum, I would like to introduce, my roommate Rei." her roommate introduce.


    "Nice to meet you and stephanos during your stay. " one of her roommates friend greeted.


    "Thank you! but if you don''t mind me asking, why are flowers part of .... you know what I mean, right?" Rei asked.


    "Oh! sorry. We are used to incorporating the islands native language. Stephanos means good luck by the way."


    "How do you say thank you then?" Rei asked again.


    "Agrimony" the other girl answered.


    "Agrimony then to everyone." Rei said although she never believed in luck she didn''t said anything to her, she doesn''t want adding another person to hate her this early.


    "Everyone please you can all leave now." her roommate said and let Rei stay. Once they were alone she started orienting Rei on the place, the bathroom, meal time, rules and regulations, and others regarding the dorm then left her. Rei was able to unpack and change before going for dinner and realise her roommate is not all that bad.


    ==============================+++===============================


    The dinner area is just outside the dorm, a small land in between the two dorms. A wide bridge connects them, the area is covered and looks like a large tent. Inside their are two long tables set. All teachers are eating with the students and seams like no awkwardness found among them. She took her plate and look for an empty sit. While walking someone called her name and found Jade waving for her to join them. Relieved that no one noticed she started walking to them.


    "Why don''t you sit with us?" Jade offered.


    "Thank you, but is it alright for me to sit with you guys?" Rei asked them.


    "That''s fine, these are actually my friends, Nath the team leader, Jinx our good luck charm, and Shana our guide." Jade introduced his friends.


    "Hmm..., what do they call you then?" Rei asked without thinking. She was actually surprise with their descriptions, its just unusual, and even more so to finally know her roommate''s name.


    "Well... I''m just the extra." He answered her. Before she can talk to him Shana started talking.


    "Why did you ask her to join us?" Shana asked in a whisper irritated.


    "Well, she''s new and don''t we have responsibility to help them, also she''s your roommate. I think I should be the one asking the question." Jade replied in a whisper.


    "When did you ever think of being responsible?" Shana retorted back and left them. After few minutes the Head master came and joined them to eat. Rei said a small prayer before eating, Jade was the only person who noticed it but didn''t ask because everyone are already eating and the room was loud with chatters and laughter. Shane came back and didn''t say a word and just eat. The meal lasted for an hour and once all were full all freshmen are asked in front.


    "SILENCE PLEASE! Mr. Bien?" the emcee called.


    "Good evening, I would like to welcome and present our new students. This Academy was built for individuals like you but to be able to stay you have to show you are right for this academy and put the best interest of the school. So, everyone let us all greet them." A flower was given to them. it was blue petals with a violet tinge colour in the middle and bright yellow pollen extending.


    "Pimpernel, a flower that symbolises LIFE CHANGING serves as our welcome to all of you." Everyone clapped their hands and all the freshmen were smiling and surprise.


    The night ended and everyone went to bed, tomorrow would be another day. That did not stop Rei calling her parents before she planed to go to her room.


    "Hello!" Paul answered but Rei didn''t say a word.


    "Aye, I know its you. Say something and don''t worry we are not angry."


    "Sorry dad, I______ suddenly changed my mind and didn''t even explain why."


    "Its alright child, we are not who''s going for college but you. At least your going to school not otherwise, besides you choose what your father picked." Shea spoke and continued:


    "Go to sleep, Its late, you still have class tomorrow."


    "Thanks mom, dad. Good night and God Bless for you both always."


    "Oh! you to kid, may God keep you safe." Aye was able to sleep without feeling guilty that night.


    ===============================+++==============================


    THE NEXT DAY


    It is the first day of class, and Rei entered her first subject for the day. The buildings are all the same except that they have names on them to recognise.


    "Hi! I''m Ritz Eve Palmer, just call me Ritz. and you are?" a lady beside her ask.


    "I''m Rei Aye Crimean, nice to meet you." Rei replied.


    "So..... which one of your names should I call you?" Ritz asked smiling.


    "Oh!.... sorry, just call me Rei." she replied realising her mistake.


    "Okey then Rei, a pleasure to meet you too." Ritz said while shaking Rei''s hand.


    The bell rang giving the signal that the class is starting. A woman entered wearing a semi-formal attire of black slacks and a lavander colored blouse. She''s just 5''3", with a slim body. She stood in front of the class that projects confidence.


    "Good morning everyone! today is our first meeting, why don''t we start with some introductions." She started while going in front of her desk and near the students then continued saying:


    "I am Anne Byron, your fleur-de-lis language or in other words. your language instructor in speaking the local dialect of this island. Let us start at the back shall we, tell me your name and what you want to expect in my class?"


    The entire students were given their own time to talk until everyone are done. Miss Byron then suggested that they should create their own house rules and she started with three and the class added few. Before the class ends Ms. Byron asked them to sign their names then her name on it.


    "Now we only have 30 mins left, why don''t I give you a brief overview of what you would expect.... What is this class all about? Language is ancient in its origin and we could hear and speak it anywhere and everywhere we go, of course it is varied from different nations. Now! Fleur-de-lis means flower, in my class you would be learning a lot of plants together with its meaning."


    "Has anyone of you heard your seniors speak unusual or weird like this: ''Hydrogen dna rof gnieb a chrysanthemum''?" She asked waiting for a response.


    "I heard a teacher actually speak that way when I was passing the hallway." one student answered.


    "Good! you have heard it well. This language has been and always been this island''s local language. I hope you would one day appreciate the value of it. It is both easy and in the same way tricky to learn but that is what I am for." The bell rang and the class ended.


    "Oh well, its time. I''ll give a parting gift then, the translation of what I said is: ''Thank you for understanding and being a wonderful friend.'' That''s it, see you all next time and have a blessed day."


    ==============================+++===============================


    CANTEEN AREA


    "Hi! would it be alright to sit with you?" Ritz asked.


    "Of course, sit. I thought I''ll be sitting alone." Rei answered smiling.


    "Oh! I forgot the sauce. Do you like me to get you one?"


    "No, thank you. It''s fine." Ritz left looking for the condiments area.


    "Hello Rei, why don''t you join our table?" Jade asked.


    "Thank you, maybe next time. I''m waiting for someone, Uh... she just went to get something." Rei replied.


    "Good then, see you around. Oh! try going out to the school ground sometime. There''s a practice for the school competition this year."


    "Sure why not. I''ll go, thanks for asking." Jade left when Ritz suddenly appear grinning like a cat.


    "Who was that? Is he a senior? how did you meet him? does he likes you, he even invited you to watch him play?" Ritz asked without stopping.


    "He''s Jade, a senior, It''s a long story and he''s just friendly. I was his seat mate when we rode the cell and don''t even assume things or his girlfriend would kill me." Rei answered flat.


    "And I would do WORST! I already warned you to back off." Shana added hearing Rei speak.


    "Just one question, how would my friend do that, if it is him that started it?... May I suggest that you find him then put a handcuff on him with you on the other end. That is a far better solution than what you''re asking, what you think?" Ritz interfered smiling at them. Shana just look at her while her friends talk.


    "You little, Geranium girl. don''t even think you are better than us." one said.


    "Let it go friends, lets leave. Don''t even forget what I told you Rei Aye Crimean." Shana finally said.


    Once all their unwanted visitor left Ritz laughed while Rei smile and they just talk on more lighter things until 1:30 in the afternoon. Both ladies went for their 2nd class for the day. All the other departments are still not yet back to the island, so all freshmen students would have to wait for the rest of their instructors in a week time. The next class is History, both sat and the door opened again. A man wearing a casual attire with glasses and must be in his early 50''s. The most significant you would notice is that he uses crutches. He entered the room and went straight to the board and wrote: ''Bertrim Lune Academy'' he then face his students and took his sit behind the desk resting his crutches beside the table.


    "Good afternoon class! before anything else. I hope you won''t mind me sitting when I do my lecture. As you can see I am your history instructor, not the history you know off." He started.


    "I only asked for one rule in my class. No one is to interrupt anyone who starts speaking. Any questions before I start discussing?" He continued.


    "Excuse me sir, how should we address you?" A student asked.


    "Call me, Mr. Draco or sir." no one asked after and Mr. Draco continue.


    "I''ll start by asking, who among you have an idea how our school founded?" He asked and waited however everyone has a blank face.


    "Anyone? I have 30 students and not at least one knows anything?" He said challenging them but before anyone could raise their hands a knock came and a student gave a letter.


    "I''m sorry class, I''ll be seeing you next meeting. For know everyone are to do their own study and learn on the history of our school in the library. Be prepared once we meet again. Class dismiss." Mr. Draco ended and left the room. While the class disperse and went on their own preference.


    TWO DAYS AFTER


    Both Ritz and Rei decided to work in the library. While they were engrossed in their search they didn''t notice two people approaching them not until both sat opposite them.


    "Hey! what are you two doing?" Jade asked.


    "We were reading about the school, care to help us?" Ritz answered and suggested.


    "I''d love to but first I want you to meet Len, he came from Asia and his father from Germany. Len this is Rei and her_________ friend."


    "It''s Ritz, sorry I never mentioned it."


    "Now, please help us in this history thing." Ritz asked again while Rei tried not to roll her eyes.


    "History..... let me get the book you''ll need." Jade answered and left them.


    "It is nice to meet you both, we are in the same year, right?" Len asked.


    "I think so, what course are you taking?" Rei asked.


    "Criminology, and you two?"


    "I''m taking Architecture, and Rei''s taking Medicine." Ritz answered.


    "Oh! cool, do you mind if I join you, reading? I might need it tomorrow."


    "Sure, why not." Rei replied. The 3 continued reading and discussing what they learned. They at times laugh trying not to create noise suddenly a flower was drop in front of them, it is blue coloured plant. Rei saw who drop it and stop Ritz from reaching for it.


    "DON''T! its a monkshood or wolfsbane, it''s poisonous." Rei warned then someone shout.


    "REI, LEN! MOVE OUT!" Jade shouted. Both Len and Rei able to react fast and move out, while Ritz was able to be dragged by Jade before the books hit them three. Their was a loud noise from the shelf that fell over them with heavy books in it. Most shouted in surprise, while the rest run outside the room. The Librarian''s assistant become angry and started to asked all students to help and fix the mess, for an hour.


    "You guys can leave first, here''s the book you need. I''ll help out next time, but for now I have to stay for a while to talk to the Librarian and have a good day." Jade said smiling and let them leave, once he was sure that they were gone he drop his smile and took the piece of paper then flower in the floor and said:


    "Really! Shana May, are you trying to kill someone?" Jade ask her, anger evident in his voice.


    "No..., I was just want to scare them." She replied.


    "Are you actually insane, this is a poisonous plant. And that shelf can crash anyone with its massive weight. What is your problem?" He replied back almost shouting at her.


    She wanted to laugh, cry and hit him in the same way but she stopped herself from doing so and look at him and said:


    "What is our relationship really Jade? did I misunderstand something or we are just going to play around?." Shana asked finally.


    "I don''t get it, why are you suddenly asking that?" Jade asked confused.


    "I''m sorry I asked, forget it. I already understand now." She left and joined her friends and left Jade in the library. After 15 mins he left too and went for dinner.

 10 List of Characters 3 : PROFESSORS

    BERTRIM ACADEMY


    Mrs. Anne Byron > Has a major on Statistics and mathematics, and part of the management of the Academy. She teaches architecture subjects and a Language instructor. She is strict and gives quizzes every day after or before class discussion. Her exams are given monthly and all her requirements has to be handwritten only. However, she gives justifiable grades to those who deserve it.


    Mr. Arthur Draco > A lawyer. He teaches History and all related to law subjects. A very serious looking person, he likes his students to interact with him every class or outside class. He freely gives grade points to those who answers right. Significant feature of him is his crutches.


    Ms. Keren Wales > A Medical doctor and a Scientist. The medical director but teaches all science related subjects when she''s free. She is one of the easiest person to talk to but does not give high grades. Her methods in teaching differs every now and then.


    Ms. Jane Amethys > She is the overall trainer of the Academy, Mental fitness is her theme. She focuses on making the minds of the students well enough to adapt to any situation. She test on games, puzzles, strategies, and others. A strict and a perfectionist, with a very sophisticated look, no one thinks she''s a Genius. Calls herself "ZERO".


    Mr. Wilton Cyber > A resident of the Island and the weapon master. A Blades smith by profession. Has a good sense of humor and funny. However, his skills and talents with different weapons and technique make him dangerous. They call him "EYE"


    Mr. Gray Que > A mixture of race, half local and half from the other side. He is training students in their physical state. A martial artist and defence trainer. A silent and flat affect person, he rarely speaks but his words have a sound wisdom. They call him "REAPER"


    AUDESSIUS ESSAI UNIVERSITY


    Mrs. Eyre Howthorne > A Doctor, and teaches science related subjects and a Historian by heart and chosen to teach the school foundation. She is approachable and knows how to involve everyone in class discussion. She is the shortest instructor in the University but respected.


    Mr. Dan Prescott > An IT graduate and an Instructor of all Math related lessons. He gives activities after every lesson. His quizzes are all open notes but not during exams. He always stands during lessons and activities.


    Ms. Sophia Wane > A widow, a Tycoon businesswoman, and has a hobby on animal totems. This made her the Language professor. She lets her students learn on their own before going to the lesson. An activity is done after, if not it becomes a homework.


    Mr. Athan Voltaire > A Physical Fitness Instructor and a Martial artist trainer. He is strict when it comes to rules and a very helpful leader in guiding the students. They call him "Death Angel"


    Mr. John Debnison > An ex-Navy, and a military strategist. Has a hobby to play mind games to anyone. Has a flat affect expression when angry or joking. He turns red when embarrassed, but can give the most funniest, greenest joke. They call him "Joker"


    Ms. Alcott Black > A weapon wielder, and likes blades more than guns but talented on both areas. She has a very perceptive and keen eyes. When it''s work, it''s work for her but can easily talk to. Lastly she like things organised, they call her "Crimson".

 11 CHAPTER 11: THE YEARLY EVEN

    (BERTRIM MANSION)


    "Announcement: ALL instructors and personnel are asked to go in the mansion after class" Was written in all walls of all the buildings and rooms.


    ONE ROOM IN THE MANSION


    "Good evening everyone, as all of you know it, another year has come and we have new students. It is time for a new batch of skilled and trained protectors. Our seniors are already leaving while our juniors are also near. The sophomores are starting to have heavy school requirements. This would remind us to hasten the choosing under some additional criteria."


    "Criteria? What kind of criteria are you planning to add?" A man asked.


    "If you plan on adding, do make sure it will help in keeping this island guarded and hidden." A woman added.


    "Of course, our main priority is to make sure this place is safe and secure from both inside and out. Now, the floor is open for suggestions and it is going though a discussion." The school founder asked.


    "I would like to propose a test on controlling their personal emotions. We do not only enhance their physical skills and talents but to built-up their psychological and emotional states." One of the elders propose.


    "Well, finally! someone notice that. Remember 2 yrs ago, one senior went berserk. They were even the strongest team, my...my...., the damage it brought on this island." A woman in her mid 30''s spoke.


    "I would also agree on the proposed plan and would like to add regarding the grouping. We have been letting the students create their group and most teams are unsuccessful in maintaining it. Why not we make the group itself once all interested students joins in." A man said to them.


    "That is a good suggestion. Anymore proposals?... If none then we finalise this by voting. I would be passing papers and write your votes."


    The entire assembly started writing their votes in few minutes then the youngest was asked to tally it. All agreed in both suggestion and revision.


    "Alright, we add psychological and emotional criteria and that would go under the science department. I suggest Ms. Wales, please assemble a team to do this part then coordinate with the facilitator of the competition on how to incorporate your part. As for the groupings we start with them choosing their own groups during the event but once the list is shorten then we make the team itself. We would give them chances in this grouping." The founder summarised the meeting. It was then written by someone and signed by everyone present. All left half past 1 in the morning that next day.


    ==============================+++===============================


    [The School Tour]


    It was the second day of school and all students were asked to assemble in the school ground for the official tour.


    "Good morning everyone, my name is Silvia, the ground keeper and head guard. I would like everyone to lend me their ears for a while please..... Thank you! We are going to start touring the school campus then the market and residential areas. We will end up in the Hospital and the Council''s palace. I Would also asked that when you see the residents'' of the island, please do not stare but smile, be polite. Now we leave and we are going to walk, so all has to group according to your course and gender, Good. If any of you have questions during our tour, just call my attention." Ms. Silvia started and went ahead of the line. They were all directed to walk around the school campus.


    "There are 5 school buildings as per department. The building near the gate going to the north is the Library, one of the oldest structure it is made by the citizens for their seven leaders years ago, it is now where we hold all of their personal artefacts and the island''s history. Of course, it is also where you go for research because but for the internet, we make sure that it is available and inaccessible by any outsider for safety of everyone. We will enter the Library but we are going to the museum, underground."


    All students were excited because they are going to see the restricted area of the building. The door was opened by a certain key and 10 people has to push the doors wide open. Once inside they can smell the earth, musty and cold wet. They went around to see the islands treasures from paintings, sculptures, books, clothing, weapons, and lifestyle. The tour took the whole morning. By 11:30 in the morning they all went to the canteen for lunch and by 1 pm they were ushered to the public market.


    "I think all are full and energise, as you could see we are in the market place. The citizens call it "Tserof tekram" it means a market within the forest. All crops here are what we have in our kitchen that you eat. They are all fresh and no chemicals used during their growth."


    "Come along everyone, we are now going to the seashore, where the source of fresh seafood are found and taken. In your right are different shops that sells them and other goods. Any questions?"


    "Ms. Silvia, what about that place after the shops?"


    "That would be the meat section. Now you could also see the residential area and as you can see the resemblance of the library to their houses. It is made out of the stones they have here. There are also who live near the cliffs and mountains. So, greet when you see them and remember be polite, smile." Ms. Silvia reminded them once again.


    Suddenly a tall man with a long beard along with 3 kids, where one was wearing a feather coat, the other two are almost identical twin however the other has different eye color, walked and greeted them.


    "Good day,... Silvia. Wen stneduts no ruot, I musserp?" The man greeted and ask Silvia.


    "Sey, sey Anon, evah a efas yad." Silvia answered and look at the students. This stop the freshmen''s to stare and greet them.


    "Good afternoon sir." or "Hello sir." Were the greetings they gave and the man left passing though the shops.


    "Well then, thank you for greeting them why don''t we all start walking to reach the hospital." They walk for another 15-20 minutes before they saw the gate first and entered, then another 5 minutes to reach the park in front of the hospital.


    "This tall building was designed by the residents and with a good collaboration with other people here this is the result. A six storey high and as wide as the school grounds to cater both the school and the citizens. We are not going to enter but for those taking up medical courses you''ll see it one day. We move now on my right, this place is the Council''s Palace, its off limits. We are just going to past through. If you could see the mountains at the back behind it is the lighthouse, no one is also allowed to go there without permission."


    They pass thought the gate near the library to go back to the school hall and waited for further instructions.


    "Hello everyone, I know how tiring it was but we hope you enjoyed the walk. Thank you Ms. Silvia for the help. It is close for dinner so you may all go back to your dorms." The school head''s assistant ended the tour.


    =============================+++================================


    [Dinner Time]


    "Hey Rei, that was soo... tiring. I never walk more then 1 km in my life. My whole body hurts, the rest was not enough! How about you?" Ritz complained sitting beside her after getting her food. Rei laughed at her.


    "I am doing fine, I usually walk as an exercise, so I''m used to it. Although it was tiring. Why didn''t you just skip dinner and sleep on it?" Rei asked smiling.


    "And not eat, I''ll starve in the middle of the night." Ritz explained.


    "So what do you think of the tour?" Rei started after a few minutes.


    "It was soo... nice, the shops and how their houses are made, and even the garden near the hospital." Ritz enumerated.


    "Why don''t we add the part that you were staring at the children." Rei Added.


    "Oh! that, yeah..... I did forget the ''not to stare'' part good thing you were there. But truly, I know they are different because, hello!, its the Bermuda triangle. I was just surprise even the language is different. How about you? you did not even have this surprise look in your face."


    "Actually, I have already seen the place except the Library and the Palace. To tell you the truth my first time seeing this place made me speechless and shock. He has to pull me just to keep moving." Rei explained nonchalantly.


    "That explains why, and who was the person showed you this place? Oh no, was it Jade? I can''t believe you. You should have called me, when was this?" Ritz suddenly bombarded her with questions but Rei laughed at her for a minute.


    "No! it wasn''t him, and definitely no classmate of ours. It was the school founder and head, he''s a family friend. I never met you before so... I could have invited you but..." Rei answered.


    "Oh!, that explains it. We should head back to the dorm then. I feel like sleeping again." Ritz suggested.


    They left after putting back their plates, then went separate ways because Ritz Stays in the 3rd floor.

 12 CHAPTER 12: Busy, BUsy, BU___SY!!!

    TWO MONTHS LATER


    The entire college students are trying to finish loads of work from all their subjects, now that all their instructors and professors are back from their extended vacations. It has been a week after the school started and still a lot to do. Ritz and Rei were not exempted on this problem, both are on their own separate classes every morning since they are in different department. Rei went to her fundamental class for her medical course and Ritz to her Architectural design 1 for the 1st semester. Of course, there is nothing new regarding making reports and home works on the first day of class until now, that is the fun of a systematic education.


    Good thing the lunch break came and both friends went to the canteen as their usual routine that started months ago, and what is surprising Shana left them for a month now, except that this time Jade and Len joined them.


    "So... do the two of you have anything to do on Sunday?" Jade asked.


    "Yes, It has been two months since the last time I went home to visit and go to church but I''ll be free by 4 pm. That is for me, I''m not sure with Ritz. Why you asked?" Rei answered.


    "Well, if you two do not mind going out and see the town, here. We are actually inviting you both, maybe after 4 pm once your back?" Jade asked them.


    "Sure, why not. I have not seen the entire island after the school tour anyway." Rei answered back.


    "That is great, you are coming too Ritz." Jade said.


    "Okey, I''ll come. Thank you for asking me, I thought you two were just asking Rei." Ritz answered and look at Rei while grinning. Both men just chuckled and they all started eating, while someone begins to complain regarding their subjects. After few minutes Jade remembered the promise to update them on the history of the school.


    "Like what I have said before, there are a lot of written records where the Origin or the roots of the Island and those who has it are the Elders who are still alive. Now, what the library has, are just the basic and the only recorded events that the councils allow for the students to now. While the rest you will learn once you all took your oath. If you can befriend one resident of this Island you might learn more, they usually tell their tale to their own kind alone. Now let us go to the beginning how this Island was discovered, unless of course, they already told you." Jade said


    "To tell the truth, they just told us who founded it and how the residents struggle to keep it hidden, but how it was discovered is questionable even to me." Len answered.


    "Mr. William Bien was a researcher for a paranormal activities around the Bermuda Triangle, in particular. He work at Audessius Essai University and he has a student needing extra grade to pass. After graduation he took that student as his personal assistant and after more than a year of waiting, both had an accident and found their way to this Island. Both Mr. Bien and her lady assistant were helped by the locals. They stayed here for months to recuperate and the rest you now know from the professor." Jade ended before the bell rang for the afternoon sessions.


    Rei said her good bye and went to her Microbiology class, Ritz on her Architectural communication 1, and Len to his Introduction on criminal justice. That afternoon was gloomy and a storm might be coming, it made most the students mood turn to worst. An exemption to Rei, she likes the rainy seasons more than summer.


    In Rei''s class, after 5 minutes the instructor entered and greeted them. Rei was happy to see her again, since for the past two months it was a different teacher who handled them.


    "We start with me asking you, What you have learned until now in microbiology?" Everyone started raising and talking at the same time.


    "Ms. Black, please state what do you remember on this branch of science?" the professor asked.


    "Uhmm... from what I remember starting from its definition. The study of bacteria, viruses, fungi that are found in us and around us. We also studied how these work when they are put on test."


    "That is good, now we are going to have a quiz. All books closed this is just a 20 questions and I''ll give you 30 mins. to answer them. Kindly pass to me once you''re done and you may leave the room." the professor announced.


    After 30 minutes the last remaining students left but Rei waited for a few minutes and approached her.


    "It has been a long-time since I last saw you, Ms. Keren." Rei started.


    "It has, I heard you almost didn''t enrol with us. Now your even in my class." Keren said to her.


    "It was a change of heart." She replied.


    "Do you still have time? why don''t you walk with me on my next class?" Keren asked while Rei took some of Her professor''s belongings.


    "Sure! why not." Rei answered.


    "What are you taking-up?" Ms. Keren started to asked.


    "Medicine actually. I always wanted to be a neurosurgeon one day." She replied.


    "Good choice, just remember to work hard and know your priorities. Most specially when you plan on having your own family do it before specialising." Ms. Wales advised smiling.


    "Thank you... for... that..., I think? Ms. Keren, I''ll try to keep that in mind but I don''t think I''ll even marry." Rei replied trying not to laugh until they reached the door. She said her goodbye and look for Ritz.


    "Ritz! tomorrow is Saturday and I was wondering if you would like to meet my parents? Since you don''t have class and no plans on leaving." Rei asked her.


    "Sure! first, is it alright with your parents?" Ritz asked.


    "What? that your coming? of course, I told them about my friend. They also want to meet you. Its official you are coming with me." Rei assured her and both separated once they reached their dorm. Rei felt uneasy, Shana has been out for a month now and once she''s back, it might be worst.


    "I hope Lord, wherever she is, please let her stay there longer." Rei prayed and well it was answered but not all answers are what we hope for, for sometimes its for the best.

 13 CHAPTER 13: HOME VISI

    It was a Saturday morning and it was time for them to leave to visit her parents. Wanting to surprise them, Rei decided to visit with Ritz without informing her parents. They boarded the ship at exactly 10 in the morning for it was the only time the ship leaving for that day. Once they were 100 km away they were met the storm that would help them get out. They both stayed inside not wanting to get wet, but even then the ride was always a pain. By 1 in the afternoon the ship reached the shore near the city library.


    "Rei, I don''t feel right, could we just ride a cab. I''ll pay for it." Ritz suggested trying not to vomit infront of Rei.


    "Sure, just make sure to hold on until we reach the bathroom. Please..."Rei reminded her, Ritz laugh at it and Rei joined her as they ride on the cab. They reached Rei''s home after 10 minutes.


    "Good, they''re not home. We could rest first. The restroom''s at your left, I''ll bring our things in my room." Rei said while climbing the stairs to her room.


    "Rei..... do they even know your coming home?" Ritz asked after going in the restroom. She thought Rei was rich then remembered she got in the academy through a scholarship.


    "No, I planned to surprise them." Rei shouted from above and went down. She found Ritz in the living room looking at the albums under the table. She left her and decided to cook them a simple lunch of fried ham and bacon with rice.


    After 20 minutes she went back to where Ritz is and gave her a plate. They did not bother eating in the dinning area and felt comfortable in their sits. Both then look for something to watch while eating and went to sleep without realising it. This is the seen they are in when the Crimean siblings came home: plates on the table, television is on and both asleep with their heads at each end of the sofa.


    "Paul, did you left the television on this morning?" Shea asked entering the living room.


    "I didn''t, I even closed the lights and the door. Hey, Shea, come over here and carry the others. What''s the ma____" Paul asked midway.


    "She''s here." Shea whispered and her brother look who came and realised it was Aye.


    "Hey, Aye. Wake-up dear." Shea said trying to wake her and Aye realised that she fell asleep, she quickly woke up and said: "SURPRISE!?"


    Ritz too woke up after hearing her friend shout and introduced herself to Rei''s parents. They all went to the kitchen and again prepared food for dinner. Ritz tried to help while Aye explained more about her parents relationship, as siblings and why they become her parents. After preparing they all went in the living room again to eat while watching the news.


    The news were about strange phenomenon, a large fire that burned almost half of the town and no one knows where it started or who started it. Another was a flooding in one of the valley far from the sea or any body of water. Evacuation was done in some areas close to them and support are starting to come in.


    "Oh no! I think its time for us to pack goods." Shea told his brother while the news continues to deliver more events.


    "Your right! I''ll call the church and other people." Paul said starting to organise and both siblings took their phone leaving the girls on their own.


    "Is there anything I can do to help? Mom, Dad?" Rei asked looking at them.


    "It''s alright dear and stay with your friend and Ritz try to feel at home." Paul answered.


    "I think we better watch a movie, both of them would be busy for a while." Aye suggested. While looking for a movie Rei sent a small prayer for those people and her parents.


    "Sounds OK, but how are your parents going to help? No offence, but you guys, you know?" Ritz asked trying not to offend Rei.


    "True... we are not rich, but you don''t have to be rich to be able to help. There are different ways of helping not just in material things. We believe that we are all, somewhat, connected even if we have different race, culture, and language. We all have one Father and creator who is in heaven, and if all that we have comes from him then wouldn''t that be enough reason to help. To share the things we do not need that others need. Also, if you call yourself a Christian wouldn''t helping be a given character. If one can''t provide material or financial matters, we actually lead a prayer and fasting session. Lastly, some goes to this places to help rebuild, council, bring medical help, and educate future source of income. Of course, our group is not recognise worldwide because its a small group but that''s OK, more blessing comes to those who do things hidden anyway." Rei explained.


    "You still believe in God, after all you have seen in the Island?" Ritz asked.


    "YES! definitely, I still strongly believe there is God because of all I have seen. There will always things we can never explain and we can only produce theories but it does not mean that because they are different they are not part of the creation. Anyway, they are not half human half animal, or beast like others tell about them they are people too, having special talents." Rei answered.


    "I''m not sure, but maybe. If its''s true though why not create all of us like them? wouldn''t that be cool?" Ritz said.


    "Well... for me I''m thankful that God did not make as all the same. Aside from being unique and the only person in the whole world that is me. Secondly, people are greedy. We are capable of creating something beautiful but we are also capable of destruction. It is better this way, we just hope that the Island could stay unexploited. Also, where is the fun, when places like the Island don''t exist?" Rei said joking the last part. She then tried to change channel to look for a movie but suddenly Ritz stopped her and increase the volume. Rei looked at the television then at Ritz.


    "Hey Ritz, do you know him?" She asked after a few seconds.


    "Somewhat, let us just say that I have a huge crush on him the day I met him." Ritz answered without looking at her.


    "What! you have got to be kidding me?" Rei asked without looking shock.


    "Why? uh... wait, tell me later." Ritz asked but returned watching the news.


    ======================================+++=======================================


    (INTERVIEW)


    "Mr. Roque, you are the nephew of Mr. Carl Roque, an international Tycoon businessman?"


    "What do you actually want from me?" Akira asked looking annoyed to be interviewed during his lunch break.


    "We would like to clarify some claims that, your uncle is looking for a particular girl. Do you have any idea who is she? his daughter or another relative maybe?" The reporter asked testing Akira''s patience even if he has no idea what they were asking.


    "The only thing I could tell you is this, It is none of your business. Whatever my uncle does in his free time is his own business. As far as I know my uncle''s son died years ago. That ends your interview with me, find someone else to bother and not my family." Akira stood up and left them. Planning to call home after class.


    ======================================+++=======================================


    The news ended and Rei waited for Ritz to speak who was just looking at the monitor.


    "Soo.... may I now have an answer to my question earlier, my dear friend." Rei asked after a few minutes waiting.


    "I can''t believe this!" Ritz said not answering Rei.


    "What!? that he defended his uncle to the press?" Rei asked.


    "No! why he entered that school?!" Ritz answered.


    "WHAT!" Rei said laughing at her and Ritz joined after.


    "Why do you even like him?" Rei asked curious.


    "To tell you the truth, it''s because he save me countless times. One time, I and my father were invited to his uncle''s celebration. We came late that I was not able to meet other female guest so, I hang out with the males and he was there. We talked and laughed that I didn''t notice every female in the room were looking until I took notice a few minutes later. To cut the story short, he never left me on my own. I think he knew I''ll be in trouble if I was alone, He was a true gentleman." Ritz said while looking like love-struck.


    Rei didn''t say anything and just nod, she didn''t saw that the first time she met him.


    "So... how about you, I have this feeling you have met him and you don''t believe me." Ritz asked.


    "We...ll, let''s just say that he did help me but! he gave me an advise, oh! no, it was more of a lecture."


    "Really, and what did you do after he ''lecture-advise'' you?"


    "I___ nothing much I just look at him, thank him sarcastically on his "advise", then left him to talk to his uncle and apologise. I left after without looking."


    "Oh well, I heard he has temper issues, good thing I never saw it." Ritz said and both just continued talking or laughed at everything they could think off. After an hour they decided to retire for the night.

 14 CHAPTER 14: FREE TIME

    The next day it was sunny and bright, Ritz and Rei woke up early and they prepared breakfast. By 8:30 in the morning they all left and went to church. The service started at 9 a.m. woth a simple melody from a piano being played.


    The worship leaders started by asking everyone to stand and sing a couple of songs, then prayed thereafter. Once everyone were sitted the passage was read and the message was delivered by the pastor. After 30 minutes, they all sang a response song and few more worship songs. As for the last hour left, they ask if anyone would like to praise or ask for prayers. The service ended with an offering and prayer through a song.


    Ritz was new to this, and tried to join while singing. Although she got interested with the sermon about prayer and approached the spreacher after the service. She was able to meet some of Rei''s group of youth that she is taking care of.


    After lunch with Rei''s family, both said their goodbyes and left going back to school. They reached the harbour of the dorm at 1 in the afternoon and changed. By 2:00, they left for the school campus and meet both Jade and Len at the school gate, already waiting for them.


    "So... Len, is this your first time to see the area?" Jade asked.


    "Yes, it is. I wasn''t able to join the tour." Len answered.


    "Let us then start in the market place, then the residential area until we end up to the school. Would that be alright with everyone." Jade explained.


    By the time they reached the market place, it was pack of different people both students and citizens. They then start hearing names of plants and flowers.


    "Rei... we''re here again. I feel like I live in a different time. One time when I was in high school, a teacher of mine stop me from over using adjectives. I tend to make my words too ''flowery'' in a way. Well... if she ever hear this, I''d like to see her face." Ritz whispered.


    "I don''t think they are doing it to play on us. It is their language anyway. Just hope they don''t talk about selling us." Rei said to Ritz.


    "Oh, please no.... So this is what our linguist instuctor ask as to learn, I can''t even understand anything aside from the plant or flower and even those do not make the whole sentence understandably." Ritz complained.


    "Well... that is for the three of us. This is even worse than hearing my relatives talk on their dialect." Len said joining to the conversation.


    The three continued walking beside Jade until they reached the place he planned to show them. It was a shop, cafe to be exact. When you look from outside it is like a tavern made out of the rocks. Inside it is well lighted, cool and cozy. The view from the window shows the sea. It is also high ceiling and wide with comfortable chairs at the sides and an area people could sit on the floor. They took a place near the window and a tall, skinny person with silver hair came to take their order.


    "Doog yad, woh yam I pleh uoy?"


    "Uh.... ym sdneirf dna I dluow evah eht tseb relles doof dna sknird. I tnaw meht ot rosemary siht ecalp."


    "Taht dlouc eb enod, Jade. Tiaw esaelp dna agrimony." He left after taking the order.


    "What just happened, did I just heard you...? how do you do it, I feel awkward hearing it." Ritz started after the man leaved.


    "It''s fine, you guys could get use to it. You won''t be able to survive here if you could not at least know how to speak their language."


    "That is true, however why add a flower or a plant''s name to an english word that has been scrambled?" Rei asked.


    "..... well that was fast..... it took me 3 months before I got how they talk. That''s amazing Rei! you should continue whatever how you are doing it. Why don''t we just enjoy this time and don''t over stress yourselves. Those who are performing here are mixed, some comes from the locals others are students. Of course, you are aware that some of the students are from here?"


    "I actually notice that lately." Len said and both girls just nod in agreement. They waited for the entertainment to begin, after 5 minutes the band started. The lead singer started singing, her voice was perfect not too high pitch that cause you to close your ears and very clear.


    "What the! should we just go?" Ritz whispered to Rei.


    "No, we''ll wait." She replied calmly and look between Shana and Jade.


    "Hey, Rei. Come on, we should leave. They''re coming.... and they saw us."


    Ritz told Rei after the band stopped playing.


    "Don''t worry I''ll explain it to her." Jade said overhearing them and stood up but before he can say anything Shana started speaking.


    "What are they doing here? I remembered inviting you not them." Shana said while pointing at Rei and Ritz.


    "Come on Shana, stop that. I invited them so that I won''t be watching on my own." Jade replied.


    "Sorry for the trouble, Shana, we didn''t know." Rei tried to explain.


    "Then you three are free to go." Shana replied to her.


    "Sure, but before we leave, I have to talk to you... in private. Please." Rei said while pulling her away from the group.


    "Stop! and don''t say a word. This time I talk, you listen. I know you hate me for some reason, and I seem to know why. Stop hating everyone who gets near him, because he already likes you whether you see it or not. You don''t have to keep being the villain because he never look at anyone with the same affection and interest he shows with you. So please stop!!! it is getting out of hand and booring." Rei whispered to her flatly then she left her looking at her. Rei asked Jade if they could go by themselves around the island and try to explore it. Jade agreed after a few minutes of argument with Rei.


    Once they were out they were again surrounded with a lot of beings shopping and talking. They never tried to approach anyone but walk a path going near the council. They reached a garden with a stream and realized they are on the palace grounds. No one is allowed to get in without a permit and they decided to retrace their way back before someone sees them. Rei knows that shes always great in directions.


    ??????????????????????????????????????????????++????????????????????????????????????????????


    (Coffee Shop)


    Shana and Jade were left alone by the rest of the band. They decided to talk and Shana begin by explaining her behaviour while Jade just listened until she was done. Shana again asked what is their relationship is but before Jade could answer an announcement was released.


    "ATTENTION! to all junior''s and senior''s who are close to the council''s palace. Kindly extract three freshmen students in 10 minutes before the training start. Thank you!"


    Jade and Shana left and run as fast as they can to reached the ground to look for them. After a couple of minutes they heard a cry and followed it. They found Rei trying to stop the bleeding from Ritz left leg. While Len was standing between the attacker and them. The being was a young female, and her eyes are like reptalian and moves swiftly but before she can attack both Jade and Shana surprise her by pulling her leg down.


    "STOP Ava! sti Jade dna Shana. Yeht ton ruoy tegrat ecitcarp." That got her to stop and look at them. She went to Ritz to help but the three felt still to be on guard.


    "Its ok, she thought you guys were part of her training." Shana said stopping Rei to move then continued applying pressure bandage. Ava volunteer to carry Ritz to the Hospital and they all decided to follow.


    "Have you forgotten that no one is to enter that place?" Jade asked looking at Rei, while crossing his arm.


    "It wasn''t on purpose, when we found ourselves in the grounds we retraced our steps back." Len started and look at Rei.


    "Just like he said, we did retrace our way back, but it was my fault. I was the one leading when I suddenly heard someone and I followed it thinking it might be someone who is also not allowed to be there. The rest, you saw what happened. We are really sorry." Rei said to them.


    "If you don''t mind me asking, what exactly did you hear?" The school head asked showing himself to everyone.


    "Good evening, sir." Everyone acknowledged and the head asked to talk to Rei for a minute. They talk about what happened in the council grounds. After a five minutes she went back to them.


    "And Rei, don''t forget the words you told to me before, about coincidences. Now, Ms. Palmer have a good rest and recovery. As for the rest go back to your dorm it is late. I''ll then take my leave." he said and left. Shana was the first person to break the silence.


    "What is your relationship to the school founder, Rei?"


    "He''s a family friend, my dad once save his life when they were younger and they become friends since then." Rei replied casually.


    "Do you think, he can let us go without punishment?" Ritz said finally talking.


    Rei just smiled at her, they all stayed for another 15 minutes before leaving Ritz. Shana tried to talk to Rei before she sleeps but found her already in bed. She then decided to rest too. However, Rei could not completely sleep that night remembering the things the school founder and her talk about.

 15 CHAPTER 15: RIVALRY???

    Two weeks, then another 6 weeks, overall it has been two months and no progress locating her. He can''t even date Analyze other than being her companion for now. Today he was trying to look for a person he would interview regarding the school foundation and to do a report.


    "How hard could it be to look for a person to talk too?" Akira muttered to himself until he found Carl.


    "Hey, Carl right? I''ve heard you could help me." Akira asked.


    "Did Ana told you about me?" He asked back.


    "She just suggested you, knowing you are a senior and one of the school ''smart guys''. No offense, Analyze thinks that you are knowledgeable." Akira explained hoping he didn''t offended him to leave.


    "Whatever, you will find all you want to know in the library, while the rest would be explained when you''re in sophomore year. I''m sorry I can''t help you these time. I have a lot of things to do." Carl explained and left.


    "What the....?" Akira said to himself while sitting beside Arthur.


    "What do you mean?" Arthur ask after hearing him.


    "Its just a weird conversation with Carl. I was trying to get an interview with him. He did not even let me ask him the real question." Akira said getting annoyed.


    "So... in short you did not get it done nor got what you need?"


    Arthur ask him.


    "YES! he just left and told me to look at the library. Really! I should have done that if they didn''t specifically told us to interview." Akira answered trying not to raise his voice.


    "Well why don''t you try using the internet and look for someone who would be your reference or to verify with."


    Arthur suggested without glancing at Akira.


    "I thought of that as my last resort. Thank you anyway. So, can I borrow your laptop then?"


    Akira answered and asked.


    "Just curious, for someone who is rich, why do you not own one?"


    Arthur inquired, curious of the reason.


    "I had it before but my uncle took it as a punishment for me for not going to college or uni. I might ask him to buy me one."


    Akira casually replied.


    "Now I see why you never called your uncle and just your sister. Here, use it. I''ll just look for books in the library that I''ll be needing this afternoon." Arthur said and left.


    "Thanks again." Akira replied and for about 30 minutes he was able to find what he needs and completed his homework. He was now going through some theories he found when a group of ladies approached his table.


    "Hi! we were hoping if you could share a space for us?"


    one of them asked.


    "I''m sorry but________ , its you" Akira stopped after he notice her.


    "Yes, its me Clara, sorry for disturbing but can we join your table?"


    "Actually, I''m with my friends. He just left and will be back, while I''m waiting for ____ and here she is." Akira said just as Analyze was coming out.


    "Ana!" He called our and signalling her to come. They look at who he was calling.


    "Hey, do you know where my brother is? I''m trying to look for him." Ana asked while approaching then she notice her brother''s laptop on the table.


    "Yes actually, he went and borrow some books at the library, so I borrowed this." Akira replied and pointed to the laptop after. Ana just nod and took her sit. She gave a smile to the ladies that is with them.


    "I''m sorry Ms. Bronte, but we can''t accommodate you and your friends. Akira finally said to them and they left to look for another space.


    =====================================+++=======================================


    Sitting near by.


    "You are right Clara, he is very, very handsome. I could definitely say that he is a player... But how do you plan to like you, no... first to notice you?" One of her friends asked.


    "I won''t worry about that, I have a plan. From all that I have heard from him, I would definitely win." Clara explained.


    ======================================+++======================================


    "Tell me did I just save you?" Ana inquired.


    "Most definitely, you have. She talks to much of things I don''t even know. Thank you for that." Akira replied.


    "I think, as much that I''m gaining knowledge, I am also gaining enemies because of you." Ana mentioned flatly that Akira has to look at her and see what she means but saw nothing.


    "What do you mean? Is this about them or are you planning to stop being my friend?"


    Akira asked a bit confused.


    "What I''m saying is that, there will always be people like her who would think of me as hindrance to get you. Also I didn''t say you should stop to be my friend." Ana explained and smiled after looking at his face.


    "For someone who had a lot of experience on relationship with opposite sex, you are definitely slow." Ana added laughing.


    "Well.... I don''t actually try to think of that. I may had many experiences but not the same as what we have now." Akira explained. Ana didn''t say anything, what would she even say to that. Good thing his brother is her life saver, he suddenly was there carrying 3 books. He sat down between them and gave one book to Akira.


    "Here, I found this book. You can use it as a guide for your questions and its more complete than the others." Arthur said not noticing that he might have interrupted something but both never said anything.


    "Thanks! what are the other books?"


    "I was intigued with the title so I borrowed it. Its about creatures and while this other book is for my lesson tomorrow."


    "So, its a fictional book, brother."


    "Maybe... it is about creatures anyway. I''ll see what is all about and I''ll tell you about it." Arthur answered her. They then continued what they were doing while taking their break.


    ========================================+++====================================


    The first semester was just the tip of an iceberg. The pressure of the exams given ever month adding the other requirements is how the whole semester went through. Akira didn''t stop seeing Ana until she agreed to go out with him. Arthur never said anything about their relationship. As for Clara, she didn''t stop interfering. She tried seducing, blackmailing Ana, creating traps and others but Ana was more cunning to see what is real and not. Then a two weeks break was given to all students, that was the only motivation they got to finish all their requirements, a long break.

 16 CHAPTER 16: SET UP ???

    Akira was able to rest before the next semester starts again however, Sera kept on challenging him everytime she had the chance. Of course, Akira wins everytime and he always has to praise her for improving.


    One day, after their match, Akira left Sera for a few minutes. Sera took his phone and tried to read his messages but accidentally called a someone''s number.


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    "Hello, hey Akira. Why did you call? good thing I didn''t left my phone."


    "Uh... I''m sorry. This is Sera actually, I took my brother''s phone... hmmm... Are you his girlfriend?"


    "Oh.. you are his sister. I have heard a lot about you from your brother and no, we''re just friends."


    "Really, would you like to meet?"


    "Why not, I''m actually out. I''ll send the address okay! Bye!"


    "Bye, and see you." Sera replied, after a few mintes Sera received a message and note it down.


    Before Akira could see who she was talking too she deleted the record and Akira took his phone from her.


    "Sera, who were you talking too? and you even use my phone, really?" Akira asked while looking at his phone.


    "No one special, just someone I''m planning to meet. If you want you could come. I''m meeting him somewhere in town." Sera answered innocently.


    "Did you just say ''him'' ?"


    "Yap! I''m leaving in 30 minutes. If your coming then be ready." Sera said and left Akira to change.


    Both left after an hour, and Akira continues to ask who they were meeting but Sera kept quiet and just smiled. They reached a small cozy restaurant and both walk in. Akira looked around and spotted Ana. He called her out while walking closer, Sera followed his brother.


    "Hey! good to see you. What are you doing here?" Akira asked smiling.


    "I''m actually waiting for someone." Ana replied and look at the girl beside Akira.


    "Hi! I''m Sera, remember the person who called."


    "So you finally came, .....with Akira?"


    "Yap! Wow! you are beautiful. I''m sorry he came along he thought I was meeting some guy."


    "I see, good one by the way." Ana replied grinning.


    "Wai.... wai... wait! She was the person you called in my phone? You really are great and thank you." Akira interrupted and asked Sera grinning.


    "I know right, but she is here for me not you brother. So you are more of a chaperone. Sorry...." Sera explained and left him to talk to Analyze.


    "Sorry about that Ana, you don''t mind if we sit with you right?" Sera asked after talking to his brother.


    "Of course, you don''t need to order, I got that covered. So... Sera, how old are you?" Ana ask starting a conversation with Sera.


    Both ladies never bothered to talk to Akira nor ask him anything and just left him out during the entire conversation. He decided then to leave them for a while and walk out from the restaurant. Now that he was out he finally remembered were he was, it was the usual place he and his old friends go to for dates, pranks, create problem to some people, and even get detained. He realized that it has been a long time since he was able to pass this place since he graduated from high school.


    After an houru he went back in and saw them leaving the place and asked Ana if she wants to ride with them and brought her home but she declined and said she planned on riding the train. They drop her near the station and both went home, upon reaching the mansion they heard that his uncle left for his business trip.


    ????????????????????????????????????????????????????


    AFTER SEMESTRAL BREAK


    Another semester started and Akira has been keeping up with all his lessons and his so called relationship with Analyze. After a few months, Ana agreed to be his girlfriend. Ms. Bronte stopped bothering them and look for another person to be her next victim, I mean target. As for Arthur, he was more into learning than having additional relationship, so... after a few months coming back from break he''s in the library as per his usual routine. One day while working on his Database System 1 subject, he was approached by a senior student.


    "Mr. Robles, I''m I right?" the senior asked.


    "Yes? is there something you need? I''m a bit buzy." Arthur replied.


    "Do you mind if you share a table with me?"


    "Ah.... No! go ahead." Arthur answered and went back to his work.


    "How''s your friend, in his history subject?" the student asked.


    "What do you mean? were you the person that Akira tried to interview last semester?"


    "Yes, its me. Do you have any idea why your parents chose to enroll you and your sister here?"


    "Carl right? I love mind games however I don''t have the patience nor time to hear what you have to say."


    "Not in good mood, I see. I want you to read two books and when your done meet me here." Carl answered and left him with the list.


    Arthur look at the list and found out that one of those books were the book he borrowed last semester and another book on The Bermuda triangle timelines. He looked for it and started reading until it''s time to meet his sister and Akira.


    "Hey guys, I have something to tell you both." Arthur said first.


    "Us too brother, we also have to say something." Ana said after.


    "Okey, you guys go first." Arthur said.


    "Well, me and Akira are now dating. What do you thinku?" Ana asked.


    "Finally! congratulations..... I thought you would keep it to just being friends?" Arthur answered his sister.


    "And take care of her. At least I''m not the only one who looks after her." Arthur added addressing Akira.


    "Sure, no problem and thank you. So... what did you want to tell us again?" Akira asked.


    "I''ll tell you guys next time. I''m hungry and I can''t think straight without food." He answered.


    The three went to the cafeteria and had their lunch. Arthur never mentioned anything to them and decided to learn more before informing both her sister and friend. For the whole week Arthur made intervals to read the book and study, however, before he could finish the book it seems it has missing pages. Although there were no pages that were forcefully removed. The next day he waited for Carl in the same place and spot inside the library. He waited for 15 minutes and almost planned to leave but Carl came looking exhausted and tired from lack of sleep.


    "Are you alright?" Arthur asked him.


    "I''m fine, so... your done reading both books?" Carl replied.


    "Yes, but this book about the Bermuda triangle, it might have missing some information although I don''t see any pages that were removed." Art replied looking at the book infront of him.


    "That''s fine, I have the rest of the pages with me. This school has its own secret, the same with any other school." Carl started saying.


    "I see that you have a lot of questions? What if I tell you that the two books that I ask you to read are connected." he asked.


    "Okey?... you are starting to puzzle me again, please be more clear." Arthur replied.


    "Whatever you learn from me, remember that be ready at all times. Your sister and friend will need you when the time comes." Carl started again.


    "Within the Bermuda triangle an Island is said to be existing and those creatures you read are seen there. Some people were able to find a way to go in and out and now there is a school that is built for both the beings who lives in there as well as humans that are chosen to enter." Carl continued.


    "Are you talking about Christopher Columbus? and let us say that I believe everything you said, are you saying that some of them are living among us? also where do this university comes in? As well as you mentioning my parents decision to enroll us here?" Arthur asked trying to believe him.


    "Partly him, he just saw a glimpse of the island. The rest are accounts of some of the earlier batches of students here. This uni was built for one reason, Revenge, but what the school board are saying is that we, the students, are trained and educated to become soldier, or for them warriors against them. The truth however is more of the R. Now, the reason behind you two were recruited because of your skills." Carl said answering his questions.


    "I''m sorry, I am still not convince. Give me proof that these creatures are existing. Also if they are capable to go in and out, we should have seen it." Arthur asked trying to understand.


    "They are living among as, that is true. They look exactly like any ordinary person but just in looks. Are you familiar with the accident that happened in the train station months ago. A man was assassinated and they announced that he was poisoned, however, that is partially true. As you can see here, these are the pictures and investigation done by our school forensic department. There was no sign of visible injury aside from his lungs, it was burned. So you tell me, what other possible way this guy died? Drinking acid to commit suicide is messy but the image shows a different picture." Carl said providing him documents.


    "Okey, let me get this straight. This school exist because of someone''s revenge and to train people in becoming fighters or heroes against these creatures and student that sided with them, that is located within the Bermuda triangle. Also this beings, looks like us and that it would be hard to differentiate without testing. In addition, students here are recruited base on their skills and capability. Did I summarized it well?" Art said.


    "Yes, more or less."


    "Then why are you telling me this if they will one day inform us? and whose revenge are we talking about?" Art asked for the last time.


    "Because if I knew I was sent here to fight I would have choosen another school. Also this will be the last time you''ll ask and talk about the owner of this school''s revenge. It''s aboutu his daughter, she died because of one of the founder of the Island inside Bermuda triangle but no knows for sure. This last part, promise me that it will not go out from your mouth until the right time comes." Carl explained.


    "I get it, and I promise." Art replied thinking to ask another question but Carl left him right after hearing him promise. He also returned the books and quite troubled with the things he learned. Now, when would it be the right time as he said it is unknown to him.


    The school intramurals was ongoing and some students who took extra curricular activities like sports joined in the competion. Analyze joined the judo competition while Akira went for lawn tennis. Akira''s match was early and both siblings watch him play, he won the singles division. As for Ana both friends watch and cheered for her she has to win 3 match to qualify for the next round. The day ended and they celebrated for winning because that evening the awarding would be held.


    As the night fall Arthur never spoke to them about what he learned, now that he knows the school agenda. However he does not know why Akira was asked to enter the uni too. He decided to tell them when summer comes.


    ???????????????????????????????????????£¤?????????????????????????????????????


    TWO WEEKS AFTER


    Akira has nothing to do since Ana has to meet her group for her class. Even Arthur was no were to be found. He decided to start cleaning and organizing his part of the room and saw the diary that he carried with him. He tried to find a name that would indicate who owns it from the beginning and to no avail just dates and events. He then started reading few lines of each day of the areas that is interesting.


    "June 3: How nice, I''m here in Italy the place is so great....


    June 9: Now I know why Paris considered a fashionable place....


    June 13: Finally I reached Rome, its time to learn history again....


    July 19: This place is magnificent but the temperature its so hot good thing Egypt has a very wonderful places to visit....


    July 25: I''m all pack and ready for the hike in Grand Canyon....


    July 30: I''m back home after one year and mom gave birth to my brother, he''s almost 1 year old and next month''s his birthday...


    August 2: I met someone from town, she''s pretty with a dark black hair and violet shade of eyes, I might say she''s in her 20''s. .... I was right she was 24 and she works as an assistant to a professor but she graduated as a Journalist (investigative)....


    August 6: She''s a genius, she invited me to this place (not allowed to write the name) and the entrance was so scarry but worth it. We were noticed by the guards but they let us in. The place is.... enchanting....


    August 30: Now I know why the guards didn''t ask questions, She''s actually one of the founder of the Island..... I have stayed here for a long time and learned alot of things. So without my parents consent I transferred....


    October 1: I went home for a while but started feeling different, I went to the bathroom every morning and I always feel tired. Then it just click to me that I was pregnant at the age of 18 and not married. This was not part of my plan, I am engaged to the father of my child but my parents trusted me to finish my college years before I marry. I couldn''t tell them so I left and lived with my friend, who is now married and also with a child. Her husband is from that Island and my fiance also works there."


    Akira stopped reading because he felt tired but the diary still bothers him. It was not possible for his mom to own it, so who does? his aunt, maybe? but as long as he remembers he does not have an aunt.

 18 CHAPTER 18: IT STARTED !!!

    Two weeks has passed after the New Year celebration and no news came from the school about the training but everything is short live. A week after, all freshmen students are asked to enter the huge mansion near the mountains. They saw a wide white screen and beside it is a man in white.


    "Good morning, ladies and gents. Welcome! today marks the day, among you would be chosen to be part of something great or not. As part of our process in knowing your capabilities all are going though a virtual test." The man stop speaking and left them.


    The screen showed the floor map of the place and different colored blinking dots. Each 5 different colors are scattered, 3 are in the forest and the rest are inside the mansion.


    "As you can see on the screen each of you are given your own color code ring. Which means you are to go on your designated color area and wait for further instructions." The speaker announced.


    "Well then, we got different colors. We better separate and look for the place then. Ana, I think your inside the mansion and we will be outside. Be safe sis." Art told her sister before leaving with Akira. Some students started to look for someone to pair with before going to their designated area, while the rest walk on their own.


    Analyze walk inside and found her designated room after 20 minutes and entered together with the rest of the group. The place was with high ceiling of almost 20 feet, and the room has a circular structure having a 16 meters in diameter. It was designed to have mirrors all around the room except the ceiling with a dome shape appearance and floor covered with marble stones. Their were no windows but it was well lit.


    "Good! everyone are here, these place is your first trial. If you pass you will be directed to the next 4 stations, if you fail you will be directed to the school ground. Are their any questions?" A woman asked.


    "What if we fail in our next station, are we also disqualified?" One student asked.


    "Yes, you have to pass all areas. This place would test your mental state or your mind. Are everyone ready?" She asked them.


    "YES!" all of them answered in unison.


    The lady left them after asking all to face the mirrors in the room. Once she was out using the speaker she told them to touch the mirror with their left hand. One by one everyone started falling asleep or unconscious. The operators then started sending each student information, and specific activity then put them in a real-life situations.


    Analyze was still in the stage to remembered all the information they were sending, then the first activity came in. She was ask to answer as much as many questions related to the info given. These questions were not mathematical or any university information rather, it comprises instructions from simple technologies to advance artillery, building floor plans and escape plans. They have to remember information and response to questions in relation to the subject matter. After 30 mins she starts to feel exhausted and miss 40% of the questions but the test still went on. In less then 30 mins. all of them woke up and found themselves still facing the mirror.


    "Welcome back everyone, those who pass would now have a different color in their rings. If it didn''t change we are asking you to come this way. Good luck for the rest if you." The woman said. Analyze waited to see if she pass, she didn''t have to wait long after a minute she saw her ring change in color, and followed the next area. Another room in the mansion was the next place, this time the door was made out of pure silver. It was too heavy to be opened by just one person. So everyone waited outside for instructions.


    "Hello students, Congratulations. Behind this door is your next test. Your test is simple, you are to enter two at a time and have to finish the task in 15 minutes or less. Welcome to our own arena and this will test your capability to fight. The only weapon you are to use are what you are born with."


    The first pair entered after an hour another pair was asked to go in, this continued until She entered with another male student and notice that the door is mechanically operated from the inside. Both were asked to stand in their own specific spot and a wall divided them, now Ana was on her own.


    "The task is this: you are just going to defend yourself from what or whoever is your opponent. Remember just defend no attacking. We determine if you pass or not.


    A few seconds a person entered with a mask on its face. They both start circling each other until it attack her right arm which she almost got herself hit, she made a sidestep then went to its opponent''s back. The opponent didn''t stop but created a continuous attack targeting her neck, knees, and spine. She continued to stop all the attacks and felt her body getting tired and her focus weaver and miss the hit to her chest, knocking out her breath but able to prevent herself to be hit in the head by rolling over and stood up coughing. Her opponent started moving to her again but before it could hit, she meet him and bend on her knees, reach his shoulder and just push him at the back before he could counter act. That signals the end of her match, She just sat on the floor to exhausted to move. Another door opened and she started walking. Inside it is a hallway with chairs and the rest of those who entered ahead of her were there. They all waited until everyone were done and Ana notice 3 people were not with them.


    They were given something to drink since the next station would be longer and they will need to be hydrated.


    AKIRA


    Akira left Arthur after 30 minutes of hiking because he has to walk on a pathway while Arthur has to travel another half an hour walk. Once akira reached the bottom of the mountain, their were other people who reached it.


    "Hello everyone, we are going to go underground for your first task. For everyone''s information, each of you has to pass all 5 stations you will be tested to. Once we reach the place you all would know what is the task all about. Now follow me." A middle-aged woman greeted them. All followed her and entered the mouth of a cave going down, reaching 25 ft. below see level. They reach the end, it was ice cold, the light along the walls were covered with icicles. Some started shivering except for the lady.


    "We are testing your endurance in extreme weather or temperature conditions. These would be storm, summer, winter, windy, sandy, underwater, and others. Now! all stand near the wall and face me. Remember that this is just virtual, you are going to feel it: the pain, being wet, cold, perspire, sticky and others but no outward damage to your body. Let us start the test." The lady explained, and after everyone are positioned the first weather came.


    Akira started to feel warmer but started to perspire because of high temperature, he tried to rest himself to minimize uncomfortable situation. Then he felt water covering him so he took a deep breath, this time he does not know how long it took before he started to lose oxygen. after a few seconds to recover strong wind and water hit him, followed by very cold temperature and a very strong water falling down on him, he can even hear the water hitting below. He shivered but tried to focus on breathing and to keep standing. Four more different setting was given to them and took more then an hour to complete. By lunch time the group were walking back to the surface. Like everyone else, Akira, wanted to to stay near the trees were it was cool. They all ate small portion of food before they were instructed on the next station. Their rings change in color at the same time and started to walk back to the mansion.


    ARTHUR


    Arthur also reached the lighthouse, an old man was standing infront the door together with all the rest of the students who came ahead.


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    "Good morning, welcome to your first test. Before anything else, this is 1 out of the 5 task you are all going through. You have to pass all 5, if not you are disqualified and will be asked to go back in the school ground. This is the chance for each of you to show how skilled you are in wielding a weapon. Scattered around in this place are different kinds, shape, and sizes of weapons, Choose one and choose wisely. The only instruction is to reach the top of this lighthouse."


    All started picking a weapon, Arthur choose a dagger and cross bow. For some reason, no available advance weapon like gun. Some started walking up the stairs by the time all of them reach halfway, the first obstacle came in a form of an oily subtance on the stairs and without warning the stairs flattened. Half of them came down the rest are able to find a way to use their weapon of choice to stay. As for Arthur his dagger was useful for him to hit on the ground... before the stairs are back again. Other than oil, they were asked to hit 3 targets, then choose from the animals scattered to carry them to the top, lastly to enter the door with the right password to reach the viewing deck of the lighthouse.


    All of the remaining students after they went through all the four test, are asked to to return the next day for the last part of the test. As for the three they were to exhausted to talk and just went to their dorms.


    The next day, the last test was about teamwork, they were randomly grouped and they are task to enter the mountain with limited tools and necessities. Inside they are to complete the tasks given to them as a team before they are allowed to go back on tha base. A map is provided for them and must be completed in 24 hours.


    Overall 2/3 of the entire freshmen was accepted as qualified to be trained. They went through an oath ceremony that no one should talk about, and they all received a totem. A totem that signifies 2 things: who they are to the school ang their character.


    Arthur - Eagle


    Analyze - pheonix


    Akira - Lion with crow wings (chimera)

 19 CHAPTER 19: THE CRIMEANS

    Mr. Paul Crimean was trying to make some adjustments according to the client''s needs. After a few minutes he tried to see if it needs changes. The program went perfectly before he submitted it for approval of the client. Everyone who works under him are also under stress, they have a deadline to meet. He left the his workplace after few hours to get something to drink when suddenly his phone ring.


    "Hello, this is Paul speaking."


    "Oh! Hello there friend. It''s William, I hope I''m not disturbing you"


    "No, I''m taking a short break, is their something you need?"


    "Yes! I do have, it''s about Aye. I''m planning to let her join extra curricular activities would that be fine? She actually said that she''ll join when you both agree." William asked.


    "Is that what she said. A really thoughtful child. I don''t mind as long as she can handle it. If you don''t mind, what kind of activity is it?" Paul replied after a few seconds.


    "It is for a good cost. She choose to take medicine to save lives and this is related to her course." Willam assured.


    "That is good to know. How is she? She hasn''t called us for a week now." Paul asked.


    "She''s doing well both in her studies and others. She is really committed on her chosen career." William praising Rei.


    "Thank you for that. When your free try calling me again. Hope to meet you next time." Paul replied


    "Why not my friend. Till next time and thank you." William ended the call.


    ======================####========================


    (ATTERIR HOTEL)


    Ms. Shea received a message from his brother and was happy about it. Shea is working as a Hotel manager in Atterir Hotel for almost 3 years. It was the time of the year that the hotel was busy and so she has to help in setting the dinning area when suddenly she bump into someone.


    "Ohmm... I''m so sorry sir." she said after looking uo.


    "That''s fine." the man replied smiling.


    "Thank you sir, I''ll let someone to help you in your sit.... Have a good evening." Shea said and ask the closes server to assist.


    "Hello! Mr. Roque, please this way.... Would you like the usual?"


    "Yes please."


    "Of course sir, please wait for a moment." The server left and Shea talk to him.


    "How is he?" Shea asked the server.


    "Mr. Roque is doing well miss, he''s a regular costumer and a kind person. Don''t worry."


    "Thank you then. If anyone looks for me, I''ll be in my office." Shea left and stayed in her office to finish her report before going home.


    A man came in the restaurant and went straight to Mr. Roque.


    "Mr. Roque." the man called.


    "What kind of news you have for me now?" Mr. Roque asked straight to the point.


    "I''m still flowing some leads, by next week we''ll have the information we need to lessen the areas to seach for her child and if he/she is still alive." the detective teplied.


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    "I see, then do what you needed to do. Make sure to tell me your progress. My nephew is starting to ask question about her and I hope I have the answers to his questions."


    "Of course." Both talk more on the details on how they would find her.


    =======================###=======================


    [CRIMEAN]


    The weather is cold but it changes every now and then that shows summer is coming. Paul and Shea were home, after dinner they called their daughter. Aye was able to answer the call before her roommate gets annoyed from the ring.


    "Hello?" Rei answered without looking at the caller.


    "Hi dear, it is us."


    "Hi mom, dad. Why did you call?"


    "Because someone forgot to call us?"


    "Oh! I''m sorry mom, I was busy this week but good thing you guys called. How are you mom, dad?"


    "We are doing fine honey, How about you... how is school and do you have friends?"


    "Well..... its college. Some are interesting the rest are less interesting. I do have friends and they are helpful. You guys met one one of my friends, maybe next time you''ll meet the rest."


    "Good to hear that, have a good rest then. Try to call us again most specially if you need anything."


    "Yes mom, and don''t worry about me... enjoy your work mom and dad. Bye..."


    "Good night and have a blessed rest every night dear." her. mom replied before hanging up.


    The dorm becomes quiet again after she hang up from the call, Rei continued to read her notes and books but gets tired after few chapters. She changed to a more lighter topic and choose the book on language: flower.