The morning sun streamed through the windows of Class S's dormitory, casting golden rays across the polished floor. Arven woke with a shiver, feeling the cold wood beneath his bare feet, and stretched slowly, still half-asleep. Time to get up, he thought, quickly adjusting his uniform. As he stepped into the hallway, he was greeted by the murmurs of students bustling about, their anticipation for the day's presentations palpable.
Entering the classroom, he noticed that most of his classmates had already taken their seats. The air was thick with tension; curious glances and quiet whispers filled the room, mingling with the faint metallic scent of the clean floor.
The door creaked open softly, and everyone rose immediately. Aria Greenish entered. Her green hair shimmered under the sunlight, and her eyes of the same hue scanned the classroom with surgical precision. The aura of a Level A Hunter she radiated made even the most confident students bow slightly in respect.
"Good morning, Class S," she said, her voice firm and clear, echoing throughout the room. "Today we will learn about something essential: the very essence of each of you — mana. It is the manifestation of your soul, the energy that reveals who you truly are. Each of you can materialize this essence into a weapon: a sword, spear, mace, bow… the choice is unique and reflects your inner strength."
She paused, letting her words sink in as she examined the posture and expressions of every student. "There are only two types of mana. Light mana is fueled by positive emotions — love, happiness, good memories — and can grow exponentially based on these feelings. But be warned: when anger or despair takes hold, even light can become unpredictable and dangerous."
Aria tilted her head, her expression serious. "Dark mana is different. It manifests more intensely when the user is driven to madness, extreme anger, or desperation. Its power exceeds normal limits, but the risk is high: without control, it can completely consume the one who wields it."
Arven felt a chill run down his spine. So that's it… the mana I feel is different… something no one else seems to notice… he thought. He sensed a strange energy around him, more intense than usual, as if an invisible presence were observing his every move, though no one else seemed aware of it.
The assistant professor adjusted his glasses. "After the explanation, we will have individual student presentations. Remember, not only will your content be evaluated, but also your mana control."
Gabriella Asumi, the elven duke with blue hair and eyes, was first. Her precise, graceful movements reflected her natural mastery of mana. Aria observed every gesture carefully, taking quick notes.
Lucien Temaki, the human duke with golden eyes and blond hair, presented with confidence. A subtle light seemed to pulse around him, demonstrating the connection between his body, mind, and the positive energy he commanded.
Then it was Arven Shisui's turn. He took a deep breath, feeling the curious stares and murmurs. Alright… just keep your composure, he thought. His firm voice broke the silence as he began, and he noticed that his own energy seemed unusually strong near Professor Aria, though she showed no sign of noticing.
Elara Dusk, the human red-haired duchess with lightly curled hair and crimson eyes, presented next. For a brief moment, her gaze met Arven's. He felt a subtle connection, as if her energy were whispering something only he could perceive.
Lyra Vesper, the human blonde duchess, exhibited precision and refined control of her mana. Every movement seemed deliberate, every muscle in perfect harmony with the energy she emanated.
Kael Fever, the beastman duke with brown hair, radiated an intense aura, almost silently measuring Arven's strength as if inviting him to push himself further.
Darius Brave and Samantha Sunderland followed with solid presentations, while Tel'jin Ironfang closed the sequence with an intimidating presence. Aria assessed every detail, yet Arven could not shake the sensation of the strange, unusually intense mana surrounding him.
When the class ended, Kael approached with his usual teasing smile. "So, plebeian, how do you feel after your presentation? Not so bad, considering…"
Arven rolled his eyes. "Considering what? That everyone's staring at me like I'm a joke?"
Lyra crossed her arms, smiling slightly. "Don't be dramatic. You stayed composed and controlled your nerves. But don't think we're here just to praise you."
Kael chuckled. "She's right. Today was just the beginning. We'll see if you can keep up with Class S's pace. Hope you're ready to sweat during training."
Lyra tilted her head. "Actually, you two should train together after class. It'll help Arven improve and let you test your own limits."
Kael raised an eyebrow. "If you think it's necessary, then fine. Could be fun."
Arven sighed. "Alright… just hope you don't crush me."
Lyra smirked. "Trust me, he'll teach you more than you expect."
As he walked down the corridor, Arven spotted Elara. Gabriella was nearby, gesturing sharply.
"Elara, you need to be careful! Being so close to Temaki… even though you're his fiancée, you shouldn't behave like that!"
Elara frowned. "I was just trying to talk to him about the training…"
Arven stepped forward, his expression firm. "Gabriella, leave her alone. She's Temaki's fiancée; she can do as she pleases. Stop interfering."
Gabriella's eyes widened, anger flashing. "And who are you to say that?!"
Arven shrugged confidently. "Someone who sees you making things complicated. She doesn't need your supervision all the time."
Elara looked at him, surprised and relieved. "Thank you, Arven…"
Gabriella huffed, crossing her arms and backing away. "This isn't over, Arven…"
Arven smiled slightly. "Relax, Gabriella. For now, leave her alone."
Elara returned a small, more comfortable smile and walked away. Arven then headed toward the academy's training hall, sensing the strange energy only he could perceive. Kael was already warming up in the center, ready for the session that would test both of them.