1. Welcome to Arkanum

The soft hum of the magical portal still echoed in Pandora’s ears as she stepped onto the lush, damp grass of Arkanum’s floating island. The sky above shimmered with enchanted mist, pulsing in violet and gold tones, as if time moved differently here. She paused for a moment, her violet eyes wide, taking in the view that looked like something from a storybook: an island suspended above the clouds, surrounded by ancient forests, a glowing silver lake, and old ruins covered in runes that whispered forgotten magic.

And at the center stood the Arkanum Castle — a living fortress of enchanted stone, towering spires, breathing stained glass, and a powerful aura that sent a shiver down her spine.

“Wow…” Pandora whispered, smiling as she felt the island’s energy resonate with her fairy soul.

“First time?” asked a gentle, sweet voice behind her.

Pandora turned and found a young woman with a warm smile and captivating green eyes. Her long black curls framed her soft features, and her presence was as comforting as a warm blanket. She wore the blue and silver uniform of the Mirrorwater Wing.

“I’m Amy, from the Mirror Wing. You look a little lost. Need help?”

“Oh, yes! I’m Pandora. This is my first time here,” she replied, grabbing one of her bags. “I’d love some help, thanks.”

As they walked the trail toward the castle, Amy pointed out places with a quiet enthusiasm: the clearing where nature magic classes were held, the living library that whispered spells to readers, the enchanted dining hall that catered to each student's desires, and even shifting hallways that moved on a whim.

Inside the castle, everything was breathtaking. Pandora could barely contain her excitement as they passed through glowing halls lit by floating chandeliers and walls that changed according to students’ moods.

They arrived at the Dawn Wing, where Pandora would stay. The dorms were luxurious and enchanted, filled with a sweet floral scent and a glowing, airy energy. Amy left her at the door with a soft smile.

“Hope we’ll see a lot of each other around,” Amy said, lightly touching Pandora’s hand before walking off.

Pandora took a deep breath and stepped into the room.

“Finally. I’ve been curious to see who I’d be rooming with,” came a smooth, playful voice.

Lying on the bed by the window was a blonde elf with honey-colored eyes and a mischievous smile. She wore a light robe and had the aura of someone who knew exactly the effect she had on people. Cute and dangerous — like a well-cast spell.

“You must be Pandora… I’m Persephone,” she said, raising an eyebrow with interest. “Purple-haired fairy with a pretty smile… you look promising.”

Pandora laughed, slightly flustered, but equally intrigued. The air between them seemed to buzz with something unspoken — a sweet and subtle electricity.

“And you seem… dangerous,” the fairy teased, dropping her bags and sitting on the opposite bed.

“Maybe I am. But only if you deserve it.”

Persephone’s intense gaze lingered a second too long on Pandora. There was something there — a spark, a tension, a promise. Pandora swallowed hard, her heart beating a little faster.

Little did she know her journey at Arkanum was only just beginning. And that this quiet arrival was just the calm before the storm.

Outside, hidden in the castle’s shadows, a figure watched the new student with blood-red eyes and whispered to herself:

“She’s returned…”