"You ready to go?" Lennon asked as he stepped out of his room, decked in his new uniform.
The white contrasted nicely with his sable skin, and after a good night's sleep, he looked practically radiant.
Kenneth nodded as he put on his boots, made sure he had his watch, and any other essentials he thought he might need. It was rather convenient to have a jumpsuit that had multiple pockets. He gave himself one last look in the mirror, still taken aback by the reflection looking back at him. Now that he too had gotten some rest and some food into his system, the colour had returned to his skin, giving him a subtle golden hue. Even his red hair looked brighter.
"You look great!" Lennon said.
Kenneth gave him a small smile. "You too."
"Let's hurry then. We don't want to be late."
They stepped out of the dorm room, the echo of their boots following them down the sterile hallway. When the elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, Lennon motioned for Kenneth to go first. The interior was sleek, its walls made of a mirrored alloy that reflected their figures back at them. As the doors closed, Lennon pressed the button marked 1, and the elevator began its descent. Neither spoke for a while, but the silence wasn't uncomfortable. They were both lost in their own thoughts, and Kenneth appreciated the quiet. His gaze followed the changing lights on the display, his reflection flickering with each passing floor.
The elevator stopped with a quiet hiss, and the doors parted to reveal a humanoid cyborg waiting just outside. It stood perfectly still, dressed in a dark uniform that bore the Toleran insignia. Its brown hair was neatly combed, its blue eyes faintly glowing.
"Students Lennon Addams and Kenneth Grey," the cyborg said in a calm, modulated voice. "Proceed straight ahead, turn left, and enter the Syrus Building. Orientation begins in five minutes."
"Got it," Lennon replied, giving a short nod before leading the way.
They followed the path as instructed, the polished floors reflecting the soft overhead lights. Outside, the weather was clear, the sunlight streaming through tall glass panels that bordered the corridor. Soon, the sleek silver lettering of SYRUS HALL came into view, etched above a set of towering glass doors.
Inside, the space opened into an enormous amphitheater. The room buzzed with the sound of chatter and footsteps, as students, each dressed in pristine white uniforms, filed in. The interior gleamed under the ambient lights, walls lined with holographic panels that displayed the academy's insignia.
Another cyborg, this one with silvery eyes, stood by the entrance. "Third row, center-left," it instructed mechanically, pointing with a grand gesture.
Kenneth found this a little strange but didn't let it show as they made their way down the aisle, finding their seats amid a sea of new recruits, one who had a scowl on his face and looked like he didn't want to be here right now. The chatter gradually dulled as the room filled, a soft anticipation settling over the crowd. Then, the lights dimmed, and a single spotlight illuminated the podium at the front.
A group of figures emerged from the side stage, confident, composed, their movements in perfect unison. Kenneth recognized them immediately as the captains and vice-captains of the Third Division as well as two other students wearing a black uniform. Even from afar, Lucien Saint-James was impossible to miss. Kenneth's nails unconsciously dug into his palms.
Finally, Headmaster Rheas stepped forward. Her black coat flowed elegantly behind her as she approached the mic, the sharp click of her heels resonating in the silence. Her piercing brown eyes swept across the amphitheater, commanding attention with ease.
"Good morning students," she began, her voice clear and resonant. "We've already met yesterday, but I am Rheas, the Headmaster of Toleran."
She paused briefly, her tone both measured and firm. "To my right is Chancellor Mikel, your instructors, and your seniors. I will invite them to introduce themselves in a moment, but first, allow me to enlighten you on the purpose of our school."
Her eyes softened slightly, her lips curving into a faint, knowing smile. "This academy exists for one reason: to forge unity between Strikers and Anchors. To prepare you for what the world beyond these walls will demand of you."
Kenneth straightened in his seat, a faint chill running down his spine. A world beyond these walls. What in the world did that mean?
"Toleran Academy is dedicated to nurturing the diverse talents of young individuals across our nation. Our mission is to help students realize their full potential through exposure to new environments, skill development, and practical application. We take pride in our commitment to excellence and innovative thinking. Throughout your time here, we aim to broaden your horizons, expand your minds, and foster a forward-thinking perspective. We only ask one thing of you: uphold your roles. As a student, an Anchor or a Striker."
As she spoke those words, it felt like she was staring into every student's soul, engraving this philosophy into their minds.
"In our school, independence is highly valued. Many activities and departments at Toleran are student-run. I will now allow your seniors to introduce themselves as well as explain their roles in the academy." She then turned and passed the microphone to Irina.
One by one they introduced themselves and explained their roles, until the microphone was handed to Lucien. Even amidst the others who had striking appearances and energies around them, he stood out the most. His long hair fell over his broad shoulders in light waves of obsidian. Even from where he sat, Kenneth could see those piercing blue-grey eyes staring into the crowd, fixing everyone there in place. He projected an imposing presence, causing gasps, making the inexperienced students tremble in their seats. Despite his intimidating aura, Kenneth remained composed, observing him intently.
"Once again, I am Lucien Saint-James, captain as well as representative of the Strikers," he said, his voice carrying a strange magnetism that brought the whole room to a stop.
The more he spoke the more Kenneth could feel that powerful aura surrounding him, making his inner spirit boil with excitement. There was something about this man that made him eager to fight.
When he finished his spiel, he handed the mic over to Alcione. As he did this, as if sensing Kenneth's gaze, the two made eye contact. Fire met ice as the two stared at each other intently just like last time, but this time, Kenneth was the one to look away first, making him miss the slight curve of Lucien's lips in the process.
After the two hour mark, orientation finally came to a close. They were brought to speed with the school's policies and regulations. They were then given a tour of the school, and shown the facilities that were available to them. For the most part, First Division students could go wherever they wanted, but there were a few rooms and buildings that were restricted to the older students and faculty.
One of the seniors wearing black jumpsuits showed them to the medical area. This place was reserved for emergency anchoring for those who exerted themselves.
"There are also Anchor and Striker rooms reserved for those who need quick anchoring as well. These are designed for pairs. This isn't something that will concern you all for the moment since none of you have taken a compatibility test yet, but once you do, know that it's available." He explained.
"Uh, is it alright if I ask a question?" A soft voice called from the back.
The young man frowned as his eyes tried to find the source of the voice. Finally, the group moved, allowing the girl to step up. She was a petite young woman with long curly hair and doe-brown eyes. Her cheeks flushed as she felt several pairs of eyes on her, but focused her attention on the man before her. Something flashed in his eyes, perhaps appreciation, but it was clear he liked what he saw.
"Yes, go ahead." He said after clearing his throat.
"When are we going to be able to take a compatibility test?"