The Mysterious Stranger

Ava's heart was racing as she stepped into the academy, taking in the grandeur of the marble halls and the hum of magic that permeated the air. She couldn't believe she was really here, in the same place where her ancestors had walked centuries ago.

As she walked down the hallway, she couldn't help but feel a little lost. She didn't know where she was supposed to go or who she was supposed to talk to. But then she saw a figure in the distance, and her curiosity was piqued.

The figure was tall and lean, dressed in a dark cloak that billowed behind them. Ava couldn't tell if it was a man or a woman, but she knew that they were powerful. There was something about the way they moved that was almost mesmerizing.

Without thinking, Ava followed the figure, her curiosity getting the better of her. They moved through the halls with purpose, as if they had a destination in mind. Ava trailed behind, keeping a safe distance.

Eventually, the figure turned a corner and disappeared from sight. Ava hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to do, but then she heard a noise from one of the nearby rooms. She crept forward, peering inside.

The room was dark and shadowy, with the only light coming from a single candle in the center. The figure was there, standing at a table and examining a map. Ava couldn't see what was on the map, but she could tell that it was important.

Suddenly, the figure turned, sensing that they were no longer alone. Ava froze, unsure of what to do, but then the figure spoke.

"You're not supposed to be here," they said, their voice deep and commanding. "What do you want?"

Ava stepped forward, holding up the letter from her father. "I'm Ava Othrys," she said. "I'm here to be an apprentice to one of the professors. I was just curious about where you were going."

The figure nodded, studying Ava with intense interest. "You're a brave one, Ava Othrys," they said. "But you're also in danger. The academy is not a safe place for those without magic."

Ava felt a shiver run down her spine. She had heard stories about the dangers of the academy, but she had never really believed them. Now, she wasn't so sure.

"Who are you?" she asked, her curiosity getting the better of her once again.

The figure smiled, a slow and mysterious grin. "You can call me Riven," they said. "And I think we're going to be great friends."