20 Speech ceremony

Drake's soul switched places after some time, and he spent the rest of the night reading books.

The next day, Drake skipped the special as a lecture. Instead, he read more to increase his knowledge. He knew that no matter how much he read in two days, he would still be far below his peers, but it was still better than nothing.

Time passed, and he heard a sharp knock on the door.

Kane's voice resonated within his mind, [Looks like it's finally time.]

The old assistant entered his room with an air of urgency. "Young sir, you need to go to the assembly hall for the speech."

Drake closed his books, rising from his chair. He stretched his limbs, and cracked his neck, "Sure, let's go."

With that, the old man led Drake through multiple corridors and stairs. After walking through so many corridors, he started doubting whether he was in a building or it was some labyrinthine.

Eventually, they arrived at a massive door halfway open, the bright sunlight coming inside. This made Drake slow down. He slowly moved closer to the door with bright eyes.

As he stepped through the doorway, Drake greeted a world that he hadn't seen in many years. The warm sunlight embraced him, the vast blue sky stretched above with a few little clouds moving there.

For a moment, he stood still, closing his eyes, feeling a sense of wonder and freedom. After 4… no, maybe far more years, he finally got to experience this once again.

"Young sir…"

This made him snap out. Realization slowly washed over him, and he shook off his amazement. He followed the old man along a stone-paved path. Turning back, he saw the massive building behind. It looked like they were going to the back of the building.

Soon, a massive grand plaza entered his sight. The assembly plaza was simple, with a broad space stretched out, where many kids going to the academy stood.

Many people in simple but neat clothes stood on one side of the plaza. From how they dressed, they were the outer family members gathered here with proud faces to send their kids off to the academy. Across from them, there was a VIP section protected by white knights. Many inner family members stood there in fancy dress, covered in shiny jewelry.

At the center, there was a massive stage, with multiple flags with family crests flowing around. A layer of silver knights were standing around the stage. He was about to join the crowd standing in front of the stage when the old assistant said, "Sir, you need to join the ceremonial entry-"

Tong!!

Before the old man could finish speaking, a loud drum sound echoed in the plaza. Guards in golden dresses entered the plaza. They were in a circular formation, escorting the head family to the center.

Boom! Boom!

The sound of the drumbeat echoed with a lot of claps from the surrounding crowds. Soon the family reached the stage and guards parted. There he saw a silver-haired man with bright green eyes walking up to the stage. This is none other than the head of the family; his father.

Walking beside the family head was a lady in cream grown with a head full of golden hair. She was his stepmother; the first lady.

On the left side of the family head was the lady in metallic armor, with black hair. She was none other than his mother; the war champion.

Jenny and Blake were also there, standing beside their mothers.

The old man urged this time, "Young sir, you missed the ceremony, but you can't miss the assembly at all costs. Just join and go up the stage from the back."

He said nothing but followed the old assistant's arrangement and soon stood at the back of the stage slightly away from the family. 

His father moved a little up ahead, everyone quieted down, and then the speech started. 

"Today is the day when our future, our blood, set forth to the academy. It's a moment of pride and unity. Look around, and see the faces of determination, the fire in their eyes. These young ones carry the legacy of Duisberg's name with them, and I know many of you bring greatness to the family."

Clap! Clap! Clap!

"You, our bright stars, are the heart of our family's future. As you step into the academy, remember this: you are never alone. The Duisberg family stands with you, a pillar of strength and unwavering support. Challenges will come, but together, we'll overcome them. Never think you are alone in pursuit of strength. I announce that every one of you going to the academy can choose 2 mana arts from the family."

Whoa! Clap! Clap!

The head pointed to the flags with the family crest. "look at the silver spear. This silver spear sign signifies not just our heritage but a proof of our strength. It is the path of Duisberg. The path excels in spear mana arts. I am announcing today our commitment to those who excel in weapon arts. We'll nurture your potential and help you rise to the top."

Clap! Clap!

"The support does not end at only weapon mana art users. Anyone who shows results in any field of mana art from healing to manufacturing, from summoning to curses, we will support every bright talent. As the commitment to all this, I present this emblem with the symbol to all of you."

The head took out many emblems and pinched his fingers as all the emblems flew to every kid entering the academy. It remains spinning above their head.

"This is token a of proof that all of you are members of the Duisberg family. Take this token with pride. "

At this, tokens dropped from the air and all the kids catch them.

"Remember, the Duisberg family is more than a name; it's a brotherhood and sisterhood of strength. Lean on each other, support one another, and together, we'll conquer every challenge.

May you make the Duisberg name shine. Go forth with courage and honor, for you are the beating heart of our family.

Forge your destiny!!"

The whole plaza was in an uproar at the end of the speech.