'To think magic could be so convenient,' Mr Crawford said. He was seated on the passenger seat of the motor car, as a colleague of his drove and I sat behind, watching the scenery pass by. A number of motors drove by us on the right lane. There were a few horse carts, but otherwise, they were rare. Stone houses, three-storeyed buildings, cafés and bars — so many distractions. So easy to be lost in the big cities, I thought. My head was stuck to the window, leaning against the glass pane as I watched all that I had never seen before. I rolled the window down, tugging at the stuck lever but soon gave up on the request of Mr Crawford. 'It is cold,' he said. 'Do not open it please, unless you have a way to protect us from the cold using your magic?'
To that, I shook my head. 'I apologise. I am afraid I know not the way to keep cold from affecting you.' I heard a murmur of 'That's a shame,' and continued, 'Arcane knowledge, I am afraid, sticks true to its name. It is difficult to understand, mysterious and elusive.'
'And you have forged your way through this, all by yourself, Mr Dew?'
'Afraid so. It would be much productive to converse with fellows of my own profession if it can be called that.' I sighed a little. My heart which should be at ease was beating loudly. I was excited. Not long now, I kept thinking. Soon, I will be there. Any man in my shoes would think the same. The place I was driving to and what I was about to do was something of much importance. I was to open the doors yet closed to the world. The world is changing; it is evolving, faster than the common man could adapt. And I am appointed to witness it.
The sun broke my daze. It crawled from the east, soon colouring its skies bright red. People walking on the side looked insignificant in front of it. But was it truly so? Is man utterly worthless in front of nature and its giants? In the old world, the answer would be yes. But now? A smile appeared on my face — a gentle and joyous smile. No more, I thought.
We passed by a butchery, and a bakery came into sight when I came to my senses. I called out to Mr Crawford. 'Mr. Crawford,' I said. 'I am peckish. Would you mind stopping the car by the bakery? I should buy a loaf for breakfast.' My tone was careful. I did not want to leave this man to wait on my whims.
'Do not worry about breakfast,' he said smilingly to my surprise. 'A buffet is waiting for you.'
'Oh, I see,' I said casually. But my mind was anything but casual. Buffet! A variety of food! Good food! I was looking forward to this even more now. Who could believe that was possible? 'You are quite considerate. Thank you.' I wished to say that in a strong, proud voice that was not given to me. So, I must have sounded like a very gentle and caring child, an image I had learnt to embrace long ago.
'It is only natural. You saved us time and embarrassment.' He turned back to me as his leather seat squeaked. 'We needed your expertise, but as you can imagine, finding your kind is difficult, much less recruiting them. So many denials. And finally, we found one. Many were apprehensive to the notion, Mr Dew, you must understand. The board members appreciate your coming, but they have their doubts. You are quite young, and that worries them.'
'Understandable, that. I am young, but this field is rather unique, Mr Crawford. Being young in the current age will not be as disadvantageous. I will not disappoint, I assure you. This is an opportunity for me too. This is... revolutionary.'
Mr Crawford laughed. 'Yes, yes,' he said. 'This is revolutionary.'
A few minutes passed, and I was reminded of a worry I carried through the whole journey. 'As per the letter,' I said while taking out an envelope from the inner pocket of my vest, 'accommodations will be taken care of by the institution, correct?' The envelope bore a shield-shaped insignia. It had an open book in the middle of it. A crown was decorated at the top, surrounded by three stars. A pair of rearing horses were placed to its right and left. Chains were hanging from the shield, woven together. And words were engraved at the top, under the crown. They read: Forever may we shine. It was a beautiful coat of arms. I looked up, a smile still on my face. 'You will not charge me for it?'
'How could we?' he said, seeming a little excited as we passed a square with the statue of a knight on a steed. 'It is our duty to ensure your peace of mind— Ah! we are here.'
I looked out the window. The houses, stores, and buildings lining the street were getting fewer and fewer until none remained. Soon, we were driving down a spacious boulevard. Its sides were lined by red-leaved trees that often shed fiercely on the wide street. There were a few blue trees placed at intervals. We drove past them, leaving me wide-eyed and amazed. I kept reminding myself to not act like a country bumpkin, but they say, what is in veins shall remain till end. So, I suppose, I am cursed to be a bumbling town boy for the rest of my life. So be it. I may as well wow at these sights.
'First time in Celbrun?' Mr Crawford asked with a knowing face.
I nodded my head, perhaps a little too vigorously. It ached. 'First time in Celbrun and a big city. Took the train from the city of Archoise. It is the nearest station from my town of Horace.'
'You will get to enjoy the city and its sights, but first, we must hurry.'
'Yes,' I said as my neck turned to the windshield. There, nearly fifty metres in front of us was a large gate. Sentries, dressed in black uniforms, were stationed there. I spotted four or five, but there must have been more. They were tall and carried ceremonial swords and revolvers on their belts. There were silver stars on their lapels, and silver threads adorned their epaulettes. Seeing us stop in front of the gate that was taller than three men put on top of each other, a man stepped forward. He was tall and clean-shaven. He wore an officer's peaked cap which signified his position. He ducked his head as Mr Crawford lowered the window. 'Hello, captain,' the stout man said. 'Still on duty?'
'Mr. Crawford,' the man said with delight. 'You are back quick. The train wasn't late then, I presume?'
'Everything went smoothly,' he answered and looked at me. Turning back, he introduced us. 'This is Mr Dew. Make acquaintance; you will see him often.'
The man gave me a nod. 'Nice to meet you,' he said. 'I am the captain on night duty of this estate. You will see me here often if you like strolls in the early mornings. Elliott Ruth, my name.' I replied with greetings of my own, and the man turned back to Mr Crawford. 'Luggage?'
'A suitcase.'
'Travel light, do you?' he said to me. Soon, two men arrived with a chained hound, and like clockwork, they began searching the car. My suitcase was opened with my permission. There wasn't much there — a pair of dressing attire similar to what I wore, pictures, identification papers, a small paper bag full of labelled packets of seeds, a half-empty packet of a cheap-looking snack, a tie pin that I forgot to wear, two needles, a black and a white thread, a few faded papers, a quill, an ink pot, a padded wooden case for my spectacles, a toothbrush, a small tin can of tooth powder, a matchbox, a black stone slab the size of my head, and a few official letters. Looking at it I recalled, I only brought one pair of socks! And realisation struck once again. No, wait, I only have one anyway. Everything is fine! I smiled in relief.
Then, they asked us to step outside and empty our pockets. The men frisked us, while Mr Ruth went through our belongings. I carried a handkerchief on my person, a crude, pitch-black ring on the ring finger of my left hand, and an old worn-out and frayed wallet. The good captain opened the wallet and soon turned to me with a pitiful look. Perhaps that is what persuaded him to end the search early.
Mr Ruth nodded at the gatekeeper and then at the chauffeur. As the gates opened and the wheels rolled, Mr Ruth said to me, 'Welcome, to the Royal Academy of Excellence, Mr Dew.' Hearing that brought joy to me. And as we passed the large gate embossed with the coat of arms of the Academy, I was once again reminded of what this place was nicknamed. Excellence. And, it lived up to its standards. The Excellence Academy.
The road was lined with trees and lampposts on both sides while bushes divided the lanes. We continued like this for a minute, and soon I spotted structures as the road curved. There were buildings of stone and roofs of grey and brown as far as the eye could see. We were surrounded by greenery, stone, and concrete. We passed a square, a few small stores, a cafe, and a garden. There was much to see, many facilities on very large grounds. It awed me. I was speechless as buildings upon buildings passed us. At intervals, there were guard posts. Black-uniformed men kept glaring at us. I waved at them, but they didn't return the gesture. So, I stuck my tongue out, proud of my achievement.
Mr Crawford, noticing my amusement, spoke, 'There are many buildings here. You may ask around if ever you happen to find yourself lost. Is there any facility you are interested in, in particular?'
I looked at him for a second, and with glimmering eyes answered, 'I have heard that there is a large library here, is that true?'
'A library, eh?' he said. 'How proper.' He shifted in his seat and pointed at a place far away. There stood a spire surrounded by trees and vines. It stood on high ground. 'Its base can't be seen from here, but trust me when I say, it is the largest library you will ever see.' I was amused once again. 'You will have your chances there, but for now, we must proceed. I will go see if your breakfast is prepared. Meanwhile, fill out your papers and serve your documents at the offices. Later, I will help you prepare for your stay, but that is all after I take you to the Dean.'
'Dean...' My employer... I should thank him for the opportunity. As we were talking, near the intersection in front of us, I spotted a change in the land. 'Does this street end here?'
'Yes, narrow paths like alleyways open from this place. We are in the outer region of the academy, you see.' He coughed. 'Motors and carts must stop here.' He pointed with his chin towards the large parking space on either side of the street a few feet ahead of us. It was hidden by the trees, but I could spot it once aware. 'All vehicles must be parked in the outer sector. Guards keep watch here, so we need not worry about vandalism. A lot of professors have motors.' He looked back at me. 'Perhaps one day you will have one to park here, Mr Dew.' I nodded, though I had neither money nor desire for a vehicle.
The motor soon entered the parking lot and parked safely in a corner. Three of us left the car, not forgetting our belongings. I stretched my back while Mr Crawford fiddled with the chain of his duffel bag. Soon we bid the chauffeur goodbye as he went to a nearby café, fixing his ivy cap as he left. 'Good man, he,' Mr Crawford said. Our talks were idle until we reached another square.
I asked Mr Crawford, 'Must all park their motors here and walk to their destination?'
The stout man laughed. 'No,' he said, gently. 'You will see.' I had questions, but before I could ask anything, I spotted a small stand made for crowds to seat and wait. It reminded me of the waiting stands for hansom cabs that I saw outside the train station. A dozen or two people waited there. I found men in black uniforms here too. It seems they secure every place. Now, I was afraid to use washrooms. Who knows, right?
Anyway, as we got closer, I saw boys and girls in blue uniforms. Students, I thought. They all differed in age. Some looked fifteen while some looked nineteen. They were chatting and laughing. There, near their feet, I spotted something familiar. 'Rails?' I uttered.
'Yes, rails,' said Mr Crawford. 'Trams run through the academy, you see.'
That shocked me; once again, it awed me. 'Truly?' I asked. 'That is simply marvellous. Steam engines all for an academic institution?'
'Does that not speak volumes of the institution? You should be proud; you have achieved something none have done so far. Becoming part of our staff at such a young age.'
'Yes,' I agreed, but I did not gloat. Only the illustrious had the right to gloat. I believed my fortune was born from an opportunity that came to me because of circumstances. They found no other, so they hired me. That is not a thing one should be proud of. It was rather...depressing...
As I was thinking with a grim face, I spotted an engine puffing steam. The tram had arrived. It slowed its approach and stopped right in front of us. It looked so light, so small compared to the train that I travelled in. The children began filling the seats as did a few workers. Soon, Mr Crawford and I approached. I put my hand in the pocket of my trouser, searching for coins.
'No need,' my stout companion said. 'It is free of charge.' Once again it astonished me. Something that does not cost... I could only think of mother's love, and perhaps mockery— no, mockery costs dignity. So, only mother's love, and now a ride in this tram.
We took the front seats. As all had boarded the tram, it began its journey, tracing familiar routes. Soon, we moved at a regular, leisurely pace. The cool air brushing against my face, playing with my hair, felt refreshing. I felt relaxed. It felt like home, and once again my heart beat with excitement. I am here... I thought, exuding a subtle smile.
Scenery flew by, the streets became narrow. There was no place for motors or carts to drive, only routes for the trams, and men had their pavements. I saw shops for stationaries, a large clothing store and tailor for uniforms, a book store, a post office, large bulletin boards swarmed with announcements, cafes, barbers, general stores, and restaurants. Green, red, and blue trees were placed with great care. What a grand yet idyllic place, I thought.
I heard voices and murmurs from people behind me. I do not know why, but instead of turning around, I closed my eyes. The cool, fresh air brought me the serene scents of those aromatic trees. And as I contemplated my future, my mind became hazy. Against the glass window of a moving tram, silently I fell asleep.
'To think magic could be so convenient,' Mr Crawford said. He was seated on the passenger seat of the motor car, as a colleague of his drove and I sat behind, watching the scenery pass by. A number of motors drove by us on the right lane. There were a few horse carts, but otherwise, they were rare. Stone houses, three-storeyed buildings, cafés and bars — so many distractions. So easy to be lost in the big cities, I thought. My head was stuck to the window, leaning against the glass pane as I watched all that I had never seen before. I rolled the window down, tugging at the stuck lever but soon gave up on the request of Mr Crawford. 'It is cold,' he said. 'Do not open it please, unless you have a way to protect us from the cold using your magic?'
To that, I shook my head. 'I apologise. I am afraid I know not the way to keep cold from affecting you.' I heard a murmur of 'That's a shame,' and continued, 'Arcane knowledge, I am afraid, sticks true to its name. It is difficult to understand, mysterious and elusive.'
'And you have forged your way through this, all by yourself, Mr Dew?'
'Afraid so. It would be much productive to converse with fellows of my own profession if it can be called that.' I sighed a little. My heart which should be at ease was beating loudly. I was excited. Not long now, I kept thinking. Soon, I will be there. Any man in my shoes would think the same. The place I was driving to and what I was about to do was something of much importance. I was to open the doors yet closed to the world. The world is changing; it is evolving, faster than the common man could adapt. And I am appointed to witness it.
The sun broke my daze. It crawled from the east, soon colouring its skies bright red. People walking on the side looked insignificant in front of it. But was it truly so? Is man utterly worthless in front of nature and its giants? In the old world, the answer would be yes. But now? A smile appeared on my face — a gentle and joyous smile. No more, I thought.
We passed by a butchery, and a bakery came into sight when I came to my senses. I called out to Mr Crawford. 'Mr. Crawford,' I said. 'I am peckish. Would you mind stopping the car by the bakery? I should buy a loaf for breakfast.' My tone was careful. I did not want to leave this man to wait on my whims.
'Do not worry about breakfast,' he said smilingly to my surprise. 'A buffet is waiting for you.'
'Oh, I see,' I said casually. But my mind was anything but casual. Buffet! A variety of food! Good food! I was looking forward to this even more now. Who could believe that was possible? 'You are quite considerate. Thank you.' I wished to say that in a strong, proud voice that was not given to me. So, I must have sounded like a very gentle and caring child, an image I had learnt to embrace long ago.
'It is only natural. You saved us time and embarrassment.' He turned back to me as his leather seat squeaked. 'We needed your expertise, but as you can imagine, finding your kind is difficult, much less recruiting them. So many denials. And finally, we found one. Many were apprehensive to the notion, Mr Dew, you must understand. The board members appreciate your coming, but they have their doubts. You are quite young, and that worries them.'
'Understandable, that. I am young, but this field is rather unique, Mr Crawford. Being young in the current age will not be as disadvantageous. I will not disappoint, I assure you. This is an opportunity for me too. This is... revolutionary.'
Mr Crawford laughed. 'Yes, yes,' he said. 'This is revolutionary.'
A few minutes passed, and I was reminded of a worry I carried through the whole journey. 'As per the letter,' I said while taking out an envelope from the inner pocket of my vest, 'accommodations will be taken care of by the institution, correct?' The envelope bore a shield-shaped insignia. It had an open book in the middle of it. A crown was decorated at the top, surrounded by three stars. A pair of rearing horses were placed to its right and left. Chains were hanging from the shield, woven together. And words were engraved at the top, under the crown. They read: Forever may we shine. It was a beautiful coat of arms. I looked up, a smile still on my face. 'You will not charge me for it?'
'How could we?' he said, seeming a little excited as we passed a square with the statue of a knight on a steed. 'It is our duty to ensure your peace of mind— Ah! we are here.'
I looked out the window. The houses, stores, and buildings lining the street were getting fewer and fewer until none remained. Soon, we were driving down a spacious boulevard. Its sides were lined by red-leaved trees that often shed fiercely on the wide street. There were a few blue trees placed at intervals. We drove past them, leaving me wide-eyed and amazed. I kept reminding myself to not act like a country bumpkin, but they say, what is in veins shall remain till end. So, I suppose, I am cursed to be a bumbling town boy for the rest of my life. So be it. I may as well wow at these sights.
'First time in Celbrun?' Mr Crawford asked with a knowing face.
I nodded my head, perhaps a little too vigorously. It ached. 'First time in Celbrun and a big city. Took the train from the city of Archoise. It is the nearest station from my town of Horace.'
'You will get to enjoy the city and its sights, but first, we must hurry.'
'Yes,' I said as my neck turned to the windshield. There, nearly fifty metres in front of us was a large gate. Sentries, dressed in black uniforms, were stationed there. I spotted four or five, but there must have been more. They were tall and carried ceremonial swords and revolvers on their belts. There were silver stars on their lapels, and silver threads adorned their epaulettes. Seeing us stop in front of the gate that was taller than three men put on top of each other, a man stepped forward. He was tall and clean-shaven. He wore an officer's peaked cap which signified his position. He ducked his head as Mr Crawford lowered the window. 'Hello, captain,' the stout man said. 'Still on duty?'
'Mr. Crawford,' the man said with delight. 'You are back quick. The train wasn't late then, I presume?'
'Everything went smoothly,' he answered and looked at me. Turning back, he introduced us. 'This is Mr Dew. Make acquaintance; you will see him often.'
The man gave me a nod. 'Nice to meet you,' he said. 'I am the captain on night duty of this estate. You will see me here often if you like strolls in the early mornings. Elliott Ruth, my name.' I replied with greetings of my own, and the man turned back to Mr Crawford. 'Luggage?'
'A suitcase.'
'Travel light, do you?' he said to me. Soon, two men arrived with a chained hound, and like clockwork, they began searching the car. My suitcase was opened with my permission. There wasn't much there — a pair of dressing attire similar to what I wore, pictures, identification papers, a small paper bag full of labelled packets of seeds, a half-empty packet of a cheap-looking snack, a tie pin that I forgot to wear, two needles, a black and a white thread, a few faded papers, a quill, an ink pot, a padded wooden case for my spectacles, a toothbrush, a small tin can of tooth powder, a matchbox, a black stone slab the size of my head, and a few official letters. Looking at it I recalled, I only brought one pair of socks! And realisation struck once again. No, wait, I only have one anyway. Everything is fine! I smiled in relief.
Then, they asked us to step outside and empty our pockets. The men frisked us, while Mr Ruth went through our belongings. I carried a handkerchief on my person, a crude, pitch-black ring on the ring finger of my left hand, and an old worn-out and frayed wallet. The good captain opened the wallet and soon turned to me with a pitiful look. Perhaps that is what persuaded him to end the search early.
Mr Ruth nodded at the gatekeeper and then at the chauffeur. As the gates opened and the wheels rolled, Mr Ruth said to me, 'Welcome, to the Royal Academy of Excellence, Mr Dew.' Hearing that brought joy to me. And as we passed the large gate embossed with the coat of arms of the Academy, I was once again reminded of what this place was nicknamed. Excellence. And, it lived up to its standards. The Excellence Academy.
The road was lined with trees and lampposts on both sides while bushes divided the lanes. We continued like this for a minute, and soon I spotted structures as the road curved. There were buildings of stone and roofs of grey and brown as far as the eye could see. We were surrounded by greenery, stone, and concrete. We passed a square, a few small stores, a cafe, and a garden. There was much to see, many facilities on very large grounds. It awed me. I was speechless as buildings upon buildings passed us. At intervals, there were guard posts. Black-uniformed men kept glaring at us. I waved at them, but they didn't return the gesture. So, I stuck my tongue out, proud of my achievement.
Mr Crawford, noticing my amusement, spoke, 'There are many buildings here. You may ask around if ever you happen to find yourself lost. Is there any facility you are interested in, in particular?'
I looked at him for a second, and with glimmering eyes answered, 'I have heard that there is a large library here, is that true?'
'A library, eh?' he said. 'How proper.' He shifted in his seat and pointed at a place far away. There stood a spire surrounded by trees and vines. It stood on high ground. 'Its base can't be seen from here, but trust me when I say, it is the largest library you will ever see.' I was amused once again. 'You will have your chances there, but for now, we must proceed. I will go see if your breakfast is prepared. Meanwhile, fill out your papers and serve your documents at the offices. Later, I will help you prepare for your stay, but that is all after I take you to the Dean.'
'Dean...' My employer... I should thank him for the opportunity. As we were talking, near the intersection in front of us, I spotted a change in the land. 'Does this street end here?'
'Yes, narrow paths like alleyways open from this place. We are in the outer region of the academy, you see.' He coughed. 'Motors and carts must stop here.' He pointed with his chin towards the large parking space on either side of the street a few feet ahead of us. It was hidden by the trees, but I could spot it once aware. 'All vehicles must be parked in the outer sector. Guards keep watch here, so we need not worry about vandalism. A lot of professors have motors.' He looked back at me. 'Perhaps one day you will have one to park here, Mr Dew.' I nodded, though I had neither money nor desire for a vehicle.
The motor soon entered the parking lot and parked safely in a corner. Three of us left the car, not forgetting our belongings. I stretched my back while Mr Crawford fiddled with the chain of his duffel bag. Soon we bid the chauffeur goodbye as he went to a nearby café, fixing his ivy cap as he left. 'Good man, he,' Mr Crawford said. Our talks were idle until we reached another square.
I asked Mr Crawford, 'Must all park their motors here and walk to their destination?'
The stout man laughed. 'No,' he said, gently. 'You will see.' I had questions, but before I could ask anything, I spotted a small stand made for crowds to seat and wait. It reminded me of the waiting stands for hansom cabs that I saw outside the train station. A dozen or two people waited there. I found men in black uniforms here too. It seems they secure every place. Now, I was afraid to use washrooms. Who knows, right?
Anyway, as we got closer, I saw boys and girls in blue uniforms. Students, I thought. They all differed in age. Some looked fifteen while some looked nineteen. They were chatting and laughing. There, near their feet, I spotted something familiar. 'Rails?' I uttered.
'Yes, rails,' said Mr Crawford. 'Trams run through the academy, you see.'
That shocked me; once again, it awed me. 'Truly?' I asked. 'That is simply marvellous. Steam engines all for an academic institution?'
'Does that not speak volumes of the institution? You should be proud; you have achieved something none have done so far. Becoming part of our staff at such a young age.'
'Yes,' I agreed, but I did not gloat. Only the illustrious had the right to gloat. I believed my fortune was born from an opportunity that came to me because of circumstances. They found no other, so they hired me. That is not a thing one should be proud of. It was rather...depressing...
As I was thinking with a grim face, I spotted an engine puffing steam. The tram had arrived. It slowed its approach and stopped right in front of us. It looked so light, so small compared to the train that I travelled in. The children began filling the seats as did a few workers. Soon, Mr Crawford and I approached. I put my hand in the pocket of my trouser, searching for coins.
'No need,' my stout companion said. 'It is free of charge.' Once again it astonished me. Something that does not cost... I could only think of mother's love, and perhaps mockery— no, mockery costs dignity. So, only mother's love, and now a ride in this tram.
We took the front seats. As all had boarded the tram, it began its journey, tracing familiar routes. Soon, we moved at a regular, leisurely pace. The cool air brushing against my face, playing with my hair, felt refreshing. I felt relaxed. It felt like home, and once again my heart beat with excitement. I am here... I thought, exuding a subtle smile.
Scenery flew by, the streets became narrow. There was no place for motors or carts to drive, only routes for the trams, and men had their pavements. I saw shops for stationaries, a large clothing store and tailor for uniforms, a book store, a post office, large bulletin boards swarmed with announcements, cafes, barbers, general stores, and restaurants. Green, red, and blue trees were placed with great care. What a grand yet idyllic place, I thought.
I heard voices and murmurs from people behind me. I do not know why, but instead of turning around, I closed my eyes. The cool, fresh air brought me the serene scents of those aromatic trees. And as I contemplated my future, my mind became hazy. Against the glass window of a moving tram, silently I fell asleep.
