Olympus Academy: School for the Gifted

UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT

Arcadia– North University

Solara– South University
Luminara – East University
Daedalus – West University
Empyrean – Central University

Prologue
The moon hung low in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the ancient forest. Shadows danced among the trees,
creating a tapestry of light and dark. In the heart of the woods, Alodia stood, clutching a small, ornate basket close to
her chest. The child inside cooed softly, oblivious to the danger surrounding them.

Alodia, daughter of Apollo, felt a chill run down her spine. Her golden hair, usually radiant, now seemed muted in the
face of the impending doom. Her luminous eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for any sign of her foe. The air
grew thick with an oppressive presence, and she knew he was near.

Emerging from the shadows, the man appeared. His skin was a patchwork of burnt flesh, wrinkled and scarred, each
crevice telling tales of pain and suffering. His eyes, dark and devoid of mercy, fixed on Alodia with a predatory hunger.
His sharp teeth glinted in the moonlight as he sneered, his voice a guttural rasp.

"Hand over the child, daughter of Apollo. This is your only warning."

Alodia tightened her grip on the basket, her heart pounding. "I will not let you harm this child," she declared, her voice
firm but tinged with fear.

The dark demi-god laughed, a sound devoid of joy. "Then you will die, and I will feast upon your soul."

With a flick of his wrist, he summoned tendrils of dark energy, which slithered towards Alodia like serpents. She
reacted swiftly, raising her free hand and summoning a shield of light. The tendrils recoiled, hissing as they met the
radiant barrier.

Drawing upon her divine heritage, Alodia's body began to glow, illuminating the clearing. She extended her hand,
releasing beams of light that sliced through the air, aiming for her foe. The dark demi-god dodged with inhuman
speed, closing the distance between them in the blink of an eye.

He lashed out with his claws, and Alodia barely managed to evade, stumbling as she did so. The basket almost slipped
from her grasp, but she held on, her resolve strengthening. She could not afford to lose.

Summoning a spear of pure light, she thrust it towards her enemy. He caught it with his bare hand, the light searing his
flesh, but he did not flinch. With a snarl, he shattered the spear and sent a wave of darkness crashing into Alodia. She
was thrown back, hitting the ground hard, the basket tumbling from her arms.

Pain radiated through her body, but she forced herself to stand. The demi-god loomed over her, his eyes gleaming with
sadistic pleasure. "This is the end," he hissed, his voice dripping with malice.

Gathering every ounce of her strength, Alodia formed a ball of light in her palm. She whispered a prayer to her father,
Apollo, and threw the light towards the basket. The light enveloped the child, and with a flash, the baby disappeared,
teleported to safety in an unknown place.

The demi-god roared in fury, his prize slipping away. "You will pay for that!" he screamed, his rage palpable.

Alodia smiled weakly, knowing she had fulfilled her duty. "You will never touch that child," she said, her voice soft but
resolute.
With a savage grin, the dark demi-god lunged, his hand piercing through her chest. Alodia gasped, pain exploding in
her chest as he ripped out her soul. Her body crumpled to the ground, lifeless.

The dark demi-god held her soul aloft, savoring its light before consuming it. As the last remnants of Alodia's essence
faded, the forest grew darker, the light she had brought extinguished.

Yet, even in death, Alodia had triumphed. The child was safe, hidden from the darkness, a beacon of hope in a world
teetering on the edge of despair.
Chapter 1: Gala

The morning sun streamed through the large windows of my room, casting a warm glow over the plush, elegant
furnishings. I stretched lazily, enjoying the softness of the silk sheets against my skin. Today was my last day as a
seventeen-year-old, and I intended to make the most of it.

Sliding out of bed, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Dark, wavy hair cascaded over my shoulders, framing my
face perfectly. My emerald green eyes sparkled with a confidence that had been my constant companion for as long as
I could remember. My parents always said I was their miracle, a gift they never expected but cherished deeply. They
spoiled me, and I loved every second of it.

"Miss Astryd, your breakfast is ready," called Marta, our housekeeper, from the hallway.

"Coming!" I replied, my voice carrying a hint of the imperious tone I often used. It wasn't my fault people always did
what I asked.

Downstairs, the dining room table was laid out with an array of my favorite foods. My parents, Jonathan and Evelyn
Valderama, were already seated, sipping their coffee and reading the morning papers.

"Good morning, sweetheart," my mother greeted me with a warm smile.

"Morning," I replied, taking my seat and diving into the fresh fruit and pastries. "Anything exciting happening today?"

"Just the usual business meetings," my father said, glancing at me over his glasses. "And don’t forget, we have the
gala tonight. You'll need to be ready by six."

I rolled my eyes playfully. "How could I forget? It's only the biggest event of the year."

Breakfast passed quickly, and soon I was on my way to campus. The drive was short, and I arrived at the university in
my sleek, black convertible, drawing the usual stares. Some of them were envious, others admiring. I thrived on both.

As I walked through the bustling courtyard, I felt the eyes of my peers following me. I loved the attention. It wasn’t just
about being beautiful or rich – though those helped. It was about the power I held over them, the way I could make
things happen with just a word or a glance.

"Hey, Astryd!" called out Jessica, my best friend and fellow business major. She was waiting for me by the entrance to
our first class.

"Hey, Jess," I greeted her, flashing a smile. "Ready to ace this semester?"

"Always," she laughed, linking her arm with mine. "Especially with you around to keep things interesting."

Classes were a breeze. I was smart – not just in the way people expected rich kids to be, but genuinely intelligent. I
had a knack for strategy and business, something my parents always encouraged. They said I had a natural talent for
it, almost like it was in my blood.

In my first class, Business Law, I could feel the eyes of my classmates on me as I sauntered in, fashionably late. The
professor, a stern woman with little patience for tardiness, paused mid-sentence and gave me a pointed look.

"Nice of you to join us, Miss Valderama."

I flashed her my most charming smile. "Sorry, Professor. Traffic was a nightmare."

She rolled her eyes but didn't push further. It was well known that the Valderama name carried weight, even in
academic circles. I took my seat, purposefully choosing the one beside Michael, the top student in our class. As I
settled in, I leaned over, letting my hair fall over one shoulder.
"Miss anything important?" I asked, my voice low and sweet.

Michael, predictably flustered, stammered a response. "N-no, just going over the syllabus. I can share my notes with
you later if you want."

I smiled, placing a hand lightly on his arm. "That would be great. Thanks, Michael."

The rest of the class passed without incident. I paid just enough attention to keep up, but my mind was elsewhere,
plotting my next move. After class, I made my way to the student lounge, where Jessica and a few others from our
circle were already gathered. During lunch, we sat with our usual group. The conversation flowed easily, peppered with
gossip and laughter. As I picked at my salad, I couldn't help but feel a strange, distant connection to something more.
It was as if there was a part of me that longed for something beyond the luxurious, yet mundane, life I led.

"You're zoning out again," Jessica nudged me, bringing me back to reality.

"Just thinking about the gala tonight," I lied smoothly, pushing the unsettling thoughts aside.

"Hey, Astryd," called out Jason, a senior on the basketball team. "You coming to the game tonight?"

I tilted my head, pretending to consider it. "Maybe. Depends on how my day goes."

Jason grinned, clearly hoping for a positive answer. I knew he had a crush on me, and I enjoyed stringing him along just
enough to keep him interested without committing to anything.

“Don’t you have a gala tonight?” Jessica whispered to me. I just laugh as an answer. She also giggle, understanding my
answer perfectly.

“Heartless bitch.” She said playfully.

“Whatever.”

As we chatted, a first-year student approached our table, clutching a stack of flyers. She looked nervous, and I could
see why. Walking into our territory took guts.

"Excuse me," she said softly, holding out a flyer. "We're having a fundraiser for the local animal shelter this weekend.
Would you be interested in donating or helping out?"

I took the flyer, glancing over it before handing it back. "Sounds cute, but I have a lot on my plate right now. Maybe
next time."

The girl nodded, disappointment clear in her eyes. "Thank you anyway."

As she walked away, Jessica leaned over, smirking. "You could have just given her a twenty, you know."

I shrugged. "Why should I? It's not like I have time to spend my weekends at some shelter."

The rest of the day followed a similar pattern. In my economics class, I answered the professor's questions with ease,
my confidence drawing admiring glances from around the room. I could feel the jealousy of some of the other girls, but
it only fueled my determination to stay on top.

After class, I met with my advisor to discuss my upcoming internship. My parents had pulled some strings to secure me
a position at one of the top firms in the city, and I was eager to start.
"Your resume is impressive, Astryd," my advisor, Ms. Rodriguez, said, flipping through the pages of the thick portfolio in
front of her. "You've got a bright future ahead of you."

"I know," I replied confidently, my smile betraying a hint of satisfaction. "I just need to make sure I live up to the family
name."

Ms. Rodriguez chuckled softly. "Well, you did not just live up to it. You excel at it." She looked up from the papers, her
expression earnest. "Your internship at Benson & Co. is a fantastic opportunity. It's not easy to secure a position there,
even for students with influential connections."

I nodded, my eyes meeting hers with a hint of challenge. "I don't rely solely on connections, Ms. Rodriguez. I work hard
and earn my place."

She nodded approvingly. "That you do, Astryd. And it shows."

There was a brief pause before Ms. Rodriguez continued, her tone shifting ever so slightly. "Speaking of earning your
place, I wanted to discuss something with you."

I raised an eyebrow, curious. "Sure, what is it?"

She hesitated for a moment, choosing her words carefully. "You're aware that the school relies on the generosity of its
alumni and supporters to maintain its programs and facilities."

I nodded, sensing where this was going.

"You've been very generous with your donations over the years," Ms. Rodriguez continued, her voice neutral but
pointed. "And we are grateful for your contributions."

I smiled politely, though I could feel a flicker of annoyance. "I'm glad to hear that."

Ms. Rodriguez leaned back in her chair, folding her hands on the desk. "With the new semester starting and several
ambitious projects in the pipeline, the school's need for support is greater than ever."

I tilted my head slightly, keeping my expression neutral. "I see. And what exactly are you suggesting?"

Her eyes held mine, a slight smile playing on her lips. "Given your family's commitment to excellence and your own
dedication, a more substantial contribution this year could make a significant difference. It would ensure that the
school continues to offer top-tier opportunities for students like yourself."

I crossed my legs, leaning back in my chair. "A more substantial contribution? We've already been quite generous."

Ms. Rodriguez's smile didn't waver. "Of course, and it's deeply appreciated. But with the increased costs of maintaining
our facilities and expanding our programs, larger donations are always welcome. They help us keep up with the
demands of a competitive academic environment."

I forced a smile, my patience wearing thin. "I'll discuss it with my parents. I'm sure they'll be interested in supporting
the school's growth."

"Wonderful," she said, her tone overly sweet. "I knew I could count on you, Astryd. Your family's continued support
really does make a world of difference."

As I gathered my things to leave, Ms. Rodriguez added one last remark. "And remember, it's not just about maintaining
our standards. It's about setting new ones. With your help, we can ensure this institution remains the best of the best."

I nodded, my smile tight. "I'll make sure to relay that message."

As I walked out of her office, I couldn't shake the feeling of being subtly manipulated. Ms. Rodriguez had mastered the
art of coercion disguised as flattery. It was a game I knew well, and one I played often myself. But it was different when
you were on the receiving end.

I pushed the thoughts aside as I stepped into the bustling hallway. There were more important things to focus on, like
the gala tonight and maintaining my reputation. The school might be trying to milk my family's wealth, but I had my
own plans to ensure I always came out on top. As I walked out into the campus courtyard, I couldn't help but wonder if
there would ever come a day when I would be judged solely on my own merits, rather than the weight of my family's
name and wealth.

By the time I headed home, I was feeling a mix of satisfaction and restlessness. The day had been typical: filled with
small victories and the usual adoration. But there was always a part of me that felt like something was missing, a
nagging sense that I was meant for something more.

As I drove back to the mansion, I pushed those thoughts aside, focusing instead on the evening ahead. The gala was
just hours away, and I intended to make a grand entrance. After all, in a world where I could have anything I wanted,
there was always a thrill in outshining everyone around me.

The afternoon sun dipped low on the horizon as I stood before the grand mirror in my bedroom, the room awash in a
soft, golden glow. My emerald green gown shimmered in the light, hugging my curves with a grace that exuded both
elegance and allure. The fabric was smooth against my skin, the color a reflection of my own eyes, gleaming with
determination.

"Marta, could you bring me the earrings?" I called out, my voice calm and controlled.

The elderly housekeeper bustled into the room, a tray of jewelry in her hands. She carefully selected a pair of emerald
drop earrings, matching the gown perfectly.

"These will do nicely, Miss Astryd," Marta said with a warm smile as she fastened them in place.

"Thank you, Marta," I replied, turning to admire my reflection. "Everything must be perfect tonight."

The gala was not just another event; it was an opportunity to solidify connections, to network and expand our family's
business empire. I smoothed a stray wisp of hair behind my ear, my mind already strategizing the conversations I
would have, the deals I would subtly influence.

As I descended the grand staircase, the murmur of guests and the soft strains of music from the ballroom greeted me.
The Valderama Gala was always a spectacle, a gathering of the city's elite, all eager to mingle and make advantageous
alliances. I walked with purpose, my posture straight and my smile poised, greeting guests and exchanging
pleasantries effortlessly.

It wasn't long before I was approached by a group of older businessmen, their eyes bright with anticipation. They
spoke of business mergers, investments, and opportunities, but their attention always seemed to drift back to my
appearance rather than my achievements. I listened attentively, letting their words wash over me as I subtly guided
the conversation towards mutual benefits and connections.

One particularly eager gentleman, Mr. Thompson, leaned in closer. "Astryd, my boy has just started his own venture. I
think a meeting between the two of you would be quite beneficial."

I tilted my head, feigning interest. "Of course, Mr. Thompson. I would be delighted to discuss potential collaborations."

He beamed, clearly pleased with himself. "Excellent! I'll arrange a meeting next week."

As the evening progressed, I moved through the ballroom like a queen, effortlessly navigating conversations and
making connections. Some might see me as nothing more than a pretty face, but I knew how to wield that perception
to my advantage. Every compliment on my gown, every admiring glance, was a thread I wove into the intricate web of
business and influence.
At one point, I caught sight of Jessica across the room, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she watched me work
the crowd. She raised her glass in a silent toast, acknowledging the game we both played so well.

The night was far from over, and as I mingled among the guests, I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. This gala
wasn't just about showcasing the success of the Valderama chain; it was about proving myself in a world that often
underestimated me. And tonight, I intended to leave a lasting impression that went far beyond my emerald gown and
flawless smile.

As I gracefully navigated through the throngs of guests at the gala, a figure cut through the crowd towards me.
Theodore Jameson, heir to the rival Jameson Hotels, approached with an air of calculated confidence. His tailored suit
bespoke wealth and power, and his expression held a hint of amusement that bordered on arrogance.

"Astryd Valderama," Theodore greeted, his voice smooth yet tinged with mockery. "You look... radiant, as always."

I raised an eyebrow, meeting his gaze with a cool smile. "Theodore Jameson. Flattery suits you, though sincerity seems
a foreign concept."

He chuckled, a sound that grated on my nerves. "Ah, but where's the fun in sincerity? Besides, we both know charm is
far more effective than honesty in our world."

I inclined my head in mock agreement. "True. And here I thought it was the family name that carried weight."

Theodore's smirk widened. "Ah yes, the illustrious Valderama name. Quite impressive, though not quite as intimidating
as you'd like to believe."

I laughed lightly, enjoying the verbal jousting. "And here I thought you came over to discuss a merger, Mr. Jameson. Or
is it marriage you're proposing? A union of hotels and hearts, perhaps?"

He raised an eyebrow, his eyes glinting with amusement. "As tempting as that sounds, Miss Valderama, I'm afraid my
heart belongs to my work."

"And my work belongs to surpassing yours," I retorted, my tone laced with challenge.

Theodore's smile faltered for a moment before he regained his composure. "Touché. But let's not underestimate the
power of a strategic alliance. Think of the headlines: Valderama and Jameson, joining forces to dominate the hospitality
industry."

I chuckled softly. "The headlines would certainly have a field day. 'Rivals Turned Partners: Love and Business Blossom'."

"Or crash and burn," he added dryly, his eyes glinting with a mixture of amusement and something I couldn't quite
place.

"Crashing and burning seems more likely," I agreed, a playful glint in my own eyes. "But who knows? Stranger things
have happened."

Theodore nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed they have. Perhaps tonight will be the night for unexpected alliances."

I tilted my head, studying him for a moment. "Perhaps," I echoed, unable to resist the challenge in his gaze.

The conversation hung between us, thick with unspoken rivalry and a strange camaraderie born of mutual
understanding. Despite our differences, there was a grudging respect that neither of us would openly admit.

Before either of us could continue, a familiar voice interrupted us. "Astryd! There you are."

It was my father, Jonathan Valderama, his presence commanding attention as he approached with a smile that barely
masked his concern. He glanced at Theodore, his expression polite but guarded.
"Theodore Jameson," my father greeted with a nod. "A pleasure, as always."

"The pleasure is mine, Mr. Valderama," Theodore replied smoothly, his demeanor shifting into one of respectful
professionalism.

I exchanged a brief glance with Theodore, a silent acknowledgment of the temporary ceasefire between us. As my
father led me away, I couldn't help but wonder what Theodore Jameson was truly after tonight.

The gala was in full swing, with laughter and music filling the air, when suddenly, a deafening explosion ripped through
the room. Guests screamed in panic as smoke and debris filled the air, shrouding everything in chaos.

Through the haze, figures clad in dark cloaks emerged, their faces hidden. They moved with purpose, their steps
deliberate and menacing. Fear gripped the room as they spread out, unsettling the once glamorous event into a scene
of terror.

In the center of the chaos, a tall figure stepped forward. His cloak billowed around him as he surveyed the room with
cold, unyielding eyes. His voice cut through the clamor like a blade.

"Found you."
Chapter 2: The Real You