The highly rise

Chapter 6

As we continued our tour, I couldn't shake the feeling of embarrassment. It seemed like my first day at Xylem High Academy was off to a rocky start, and I could only hope things would improve from here.

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We continued our tour, Aaron leading us through the bustling hallways of Xylem High Academy. Despite my embarrassment from the earlier encounter, I tried to focus on the surroundings, taking in the grandeur of the school.

As we walked, Aaron pointed out various classrooms, the cafeteria, and other important locations. He explained the layout of the school and shared tidbits of information about its history and traditions.

Eventually, we made our way outside to explore the campus grounds. The lush greenery and well-maintained gardens provided a serene backdrop to the bustling activity of students going about their day. I couldn't help but admire the picturesque scenery, feeling a sense of calm wash over me despite the nerves still lingering from earlier.

Every corner we turned seemed to bring more curious stares and whispered conversations, making me feel even more self-conscious. I tried to ignore it, but it was difficult when the attention felt so palpable.

At one point, we passed by a group of students who fell silent as we approached. I caught snippets of their conversation—words like "newbies" and "principal's daughters" floated through the air, confirming my suspicion that we were the subject of their gossip.

I gritted my teeth, trying to block out the intrusive thoughts, but it was a struggle. Aaron, bless his heart, continued to lead us through the school with a friendly smile and easy chatter, but I couldn't fully relax.

Eventually, we reached the end of the tour, and I breathed a sigh of relief.

Aaron led us through the bustling hallways of Xylem High Academy, his confident stride matching the rhythm of the school's energy. Students bustled past us, their voices blending into a cacophony of excitement and anticipation.

"Alright, so your first class is Magical Theory," Aaron announced, checking his schedule. "It's in the East Wing, Room 204."

We followed him through a maze of corridors, each one seemingly more labyrinthine than the last. Finally, we arrived at our destination: a heavy wooden door with a brass plaque reading "Magical Theory - Room 204."

Aaron pushed the door open, revealing a spacious classroom filled with rows of desks and chairs. The walls were lined with bookshelves overflowing with ancient tomes and magical artifacts.

As we entered, all eyes turned towards us, and I felt a surge of nerves ripple through me. But Aaron's easy confidence was contagious, and I straightened my shoulders, determined to make a good impression.

"Here we are," Aaron said, gesturing towards the front of the room. "I'll leave you here with Professor Evergreen. He's a bit eccentric, but he knows his stuff."

With a friendly nod, Aaron slipped out of the room, leaving Jade and me to navigate the sea of curious gazes.

I took a deep breath, steeling myself for whatever lay ahead. This was it—the beginning of our journey into the world of magic. And as daunting as it seemed, I couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement deep within me.

Professor Evergreen, a wiry man with a twinkle in his eye, greeted us with a warm smile as we approached the front of the classroom.

"Ah, new students!" he exclaimed, his voice crackling with energy. "Welcome to Magical Theory. I trust you'll find it quite enchanting."

Jade and I exchanged a nervous glance, unsure of what to expect from our first magical class.

"Please, take a seat," Professor Evergreen continued, gesturing towards the empty desks at the front of the room. "We have much to discuss."

We obeyed, settling into our seats as the professor began his lesson. He spoke with passion and enthusiasm, weaving tales of ancient wizards and mythical creatures, each one more captivating than the last.

As the class progressed, I found myself drawn into the world of magic, my imagination ignited by Professor Evergreen's words. It was like stepping into a storybook, where anything was possible and adventure awaited around every corner.

By the time the bell rang, signaling the end of class, I was buzzing with excitement, eager to learn more about the wonders of magic.

As we filed out of the classroom, I caught sight of the two girls from the student council, their eyes sparkling with curiosity. It seemed I wasn't the only one intrigued by the world of magic.

With a newfound sense of purpose, I followed Jade out into the bustling hallway, ready to embark on this magical journey together.

During lunchtime, while Jade mingled with some classmates, I decided to take a bold step and seek out the two mysterious girls from the student council. With determination in my heart, I made my way to the student council room, hoping to strike up a conversation and perhaps unravel the mystery surrounding them.

As I entered the room, I was greeted by the sight of the red-haired girl, her piercing gaze fixed upon me like a hawk honing in on its prey. I swallowed nervously, feeling the weight of her stare bearing down upon me.

Ignoring the warning signs, I pressed on, summoning all my courage as I approached the two girls. "Um, excuse me," I began tentatively, trying to keep my voice steady despite the butterflies in my stomach. "I-I wanted to introduce myself. My name is Jadelyn, and I'm new here."

The red-haired girl's expression remained icy cold, her lips pressed into a thin line as she regarded me with disdain. "And what exactly do you want?" she demanded, her tone dripping with hostility.

Unfazed by her demeanor, I flashed a nervous smile and continued, "I thought we could, you know, get to know each other since we'll be seeing each other around."

The black-haired girl beside her cast me a mischievous smirk, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Looks like you've caught her attention, Jadelyn," she teased, her tone playful yet tinged with a hint of jealousy.

Before I could utter another word, the red-haired girl cut me off with a sharp retort. "We have nothing to say to you," she spat, her voice laced with contempt. "So why don't you just leave us alone and go bother someone else?"

Feeling the sting of rejection, I recoiled slightly, hurt by her harsh words. With a heavy heart, I turned on my heel and fled the student council room, the echoes of their laughter ringing in my ears.

As I made my way back to the cafeteria, I couldn't shake the feeling of disappointment that gnawed at my insides. It seemed that my attempt to reach out had only served to alienate me further, leaving me feeling more alone than ever in this strange new world.

Back in the bustling cafeteria, I sought solace in the familiar chatter and clatter of trays. Jade waved me over to her table, her bright smile a welcome sight amidst my swirling thoughts.

Taking a seat beside her, I tried to push aside the encounter with the student council girls, focusing instead on the lively conversations around me. Yet, their cold dismissal lingered in the back of my mind, casting a shadow over what should have been an exciting day.

"Hey, are you okay?" Jade's voice cut through my reverie, concern etched on her features as she studied me intently.

I forced a smile, attempting to mask my inner turmoil. "Yeah, I'm fine," I replied, though my voice sounded hollow even to my own ears.

She narrowed her eyes, unconvinced by my feeble attempt at reassurance. "You don't look fine," she remarked, her tone gentle yet probing.

Sighing, I relented, knowing I couldn't keep up the facade any longer. "I tried talking to those girls from the student council, but they were... less than welcoming," I admitted, frustration seeping into my voice.

Jade's expression softened, sympathy shining in her eyes. "I'm sorry, Jady. Some people can be like that," she offered, reaching out to give my hand a comforting squeeze.

I nodded, grateful for her understanding. "Yeah, I guess so," I murmured, though the sting of rejection still lingered.

As we continued to chat and laugh together, I found myself feeling a little lighter, the warmth of Jade's friendship serving as a balm to my wounded pride. Despite the rocky start to my day, I knew that with Jade by my side, I could navigate whatever challenges awaited me at Xylem High Academy.