Chapter 4: Ugly Welcome

*Walking alone, Gar has some time to think to himself.* "I just live this guy's life? I really don't know the first thing about being Gar. Or even what this place is called. What have I gotten myself into...?" He dejectedly says while kicking a rock. "No, I can't let this stop me. It's my life now, and I'm not going to let this stop me." *He grabs on to a nearby branch and pulls a piece off. Swinging the switch lightly until finally settling into a sword stance. "Deep, even breaths. *Hfff..... Fuuuu* the extension of the blade is a part of you." *Swish!* Using a controlled and flowing motion, Gar swings and slashes into the tree. Barley leaving a scratch on the bark.* "Well, it was worth a shot." He decides to keep walking while practicing his sword movement. 

*Later, as another wagon rides past where Gar was training. *THUM!!* The tree falls, shaking the forest. The wood and grane frayed from the immense pressure.* "Is everyone alright?" A teacher with glasses asks, checking the students conditions. "They're all fine, but check out the tree. I've never seen that happen before. It's all split and twisted." The stagecoach is hunched over, gawking at the damage. "It doesn't matter. Just get the students to the castle. I'll find out more about this strange occurrence." The teacher with glasses gestures to the staff and makes his departure to scan the area.

*The sunset soon approaches while standing atop the mountain. Finally reaching his destination, the academy. Gar sighs in relief and astonishment at the massive stone gate. Which is covered in the soft, warm glow of the setting sun. "This is the place, alright." Gar says aloud. "Stop! Identity yourself! What is your business?" Two armored guards with sharp metal spears step out the doors. "I'm one of the new students this year. I missed the carriage and I had to walk the rest of the way." Gar gestures to the pathway behind him. "Let me see your admissions paper." One orders bluntly. "It would be in my rucksack, right?" Gar says while rummaging through his things. "Save your prostrating for later. You're already late for the Welcome Banquet." The strong, scarred teacher from before steps out from behind the guards. "Professor GoJek, do you know this student?" One of the guards asks. "Obviously. I'm actually thinking about personally training this Fletching. So let him in already. The Headmaster is going to be upset we're late. And I shouldn't have to explain myself to you." He grabs the leather rucksack and lightly flicks the helmet of the guard who spoke. *Thínk!* *The metal is lightly indented in the spot of impact* "Owhhh!" The guard keels over, clutching the spot on his head. *The giant gates guide to a rugged cobblestone pathway adorned with flowers that lead to a magnificent Castle Academy. The walls lined with marble and cement with designs etched into the columns.* "This way to the Grand Haven."

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