The stagecoach stopped in the driveway of the tallest building where the academy was located.
– Eshsheri, let's go out! – Uncle Alan commanded.
I was the very first one outside, as I was sitting closer to the exit. While the rest of the girls were getting out, I managed to look around. Behind us was a square with a large statue of the founder, on the pedestal of which were embossed the symbols of all four main elements. But from where I was, I saw only two: land and water.
To the right there was a park, standing out as a colorful spot against the background of total grayness. The crimson-brown-green riot was pleasing to the eye, reminding that colors had not disappeared from the world. Turning around, I began to look at the bizarre sculptures on the facade of the building. A massive hulk made of gray stone blocks seemed to prop up the leaden sky with its pointed roofs. Probably, the entire Blackrock estate could fit entirely in one of its halls!
Despite the gloomy view and nasty weather, I wanted to climb everything here from top to bottom. Explore the hidden corners of the park. Look into the underground catacombs going deep into the mountain. Climb into the attic and see if there really is a ghost living there? I couldn’t wait to find out all the secrets that the ancient academy building conceals.
Dad loved this place. He devoted his life to working here and talked a lot about him at home when he came on vacation or holidays, but I had no idea that in reality everything was much more interesting!
Meanwhile, a delegation in uniform robes, led by an impressive man, came out onto the porch. It was Felsen Schwartz, the onyx dragon and rector of the Academy of Wind and Storms, about whom I had heard a lot. Among the men there was only one woman. Tall, with a bun on her head. From my father’s stories, I knew that this was Estella Krieger, the dean of the Faculty of Household Magic. And there was also the Duke of Blackrock – my father.
Finding me with his eyes, dad pursed his lips in displeasure. Well, what does he not like, pray tell? What is he unhappy with? I smiled broadly at him. I missed my beloved daddy and wanted to hug him, but I’ll have to be patient until we’re left alone.
– Girls, line up, please! – Alan Nett asked, and we lined up along the side of the stagecoach.