The Royal Academy stands as a beacon of excellence within the Empire, consistently nurturing prodigious talents across diverse fields for generations. However, the institution has faced a gradual decline, marred by corruption among the Nobility who exploit their status for personal gain. Nevertheless, The Royal Academy has managed to maintain its esteemed reputation across the entire Continent.
Entrance into the academy was a gruelling ordeal, demanding both individual prowess and collaborative skills. Aspiring students had to endure what was often described as a harrowing experience. The academy offered a wide array of magical disciplines, including Bloodline magic, Holder-type magic, and User-type magic, with categorizations into Offense, Defense, and Scholar Classes serving as the principal divisions.
The institution welcomed not only commoners but also members of Royalty and the Nobility. Though occasional conflicts arose, they were deftly managed by the "Student Council" and the "Disciplinary Committee."
Today marked Freshman Day, a day when all students convened in the grand auditorium. As students trickled in, seats began filling up, with individuals choosing their spots based on personal preferences. Among the attendees, a few commoner students mingled.
Sakura strategically occupied a window-side seat, hoping to enjoy the view and perhaps catch a quick nap. Her hopes were dashed when Adramelech, the only son of Count Montilla, took the seat beside her. Adramelech had earned the moniker "The trash of Count Montilla," characterised by his breathtaking beauty reminiscent of a delicate flower.
Whispers circulated among the students, "Look at his dark skin," "Is he a foreigner?" "He seems almost beastly," and "Quite intimidating." A man with black hair and piercing amber eyes lingered nearby, searching for a more hospitable place to sit. Any attempts at interaction were met with avoidance as students steered clear.
"Hey, Ardashir, right here," a familiar voice called out, belonging to Prince Yuri. "I'm on my way," Ardashir replied, situated a few rows ahead. The two engaged in conversation, which Sakura barely registered.
Breaking the awkward silence, Adramelech Montilla extended a greeting to Sakura. Her response? Silence, a wordless exchange that hung in the air.
In the midst of a gathering of nobles, Adramelech couldn't help but demand attention, calling out to Sakura with irritation in his voice. Sakura, not easily swayed, turned to face him and calmly responded, "Silence is the best answer," with an air of indifference. Adramelech, unfazed, continued to provoke her, likening her to the rumours circulating about her. He mockingly remarked, "And ice rose within an impenetrable cage. Hahaha."
Sakura, despite her annoyance, reminded herself of Adramelech's status as the son of a Count, prompting her to sigh and maintain her composure. Adramelech, persistent in his curiosity, prodded further, asking about her thoughts. Sakura brushed off his inquiry, stating, "Not that it matters."
Adramelech, seemingly amused, questioned her response, expressing his enjoyment of their banter. He then made a provocative assumption, suggesting, "You are trying to calm yourself down from killing me, right?" Sakura's patience wearing thin, she shot him a menacing glare and urged, "Please be quiet."
Adramelech, perhaps realising he had pushed her too far, conceded, "Okay, easy. You are gonna kill someone with those eyes of yours."
The tension between Sakura and Adramelech was exacerbated by the fact that they both belonged to the Imperialist faction, despite their personal animosity. Among the nobles, factions mirrored those of their parents, causing Sakura and Adramelech to find themselves entangled with each other, even if they didn't particularly care for one another.
The Headmaster began his address with a warm welcome to the assembled audience, emphasising their critical role as the future generation of the world. He underscored their responsibility in learning from the past mistakes to pave the way for a brighter future. His words carried a sense of empowerment, as he encouraged them with the mantra, "If they can do something, you can do it too."
However, as the Headmaster's speech continued, a dissenting voice interrupted the proceedings, and it belonged to none other than Adramelech. In a challenging tone, he questioned the need for their efforts, stating, "If they can do it, let them. Why bother us with doing something which is already done?" Sakura, in response to his interruption, sighed in exasperation. Prince Alex, meanwhile, discreetly signalled to the Headmaster to carry on with the speech. Sakura, not one to let such interruptions slide, delivered a firm smack to Adramelech's head, accompanied by one of her characteristic indifferent stares.
The Headmaster cleared his throat and resumed his address, shifting the focus to the practical aspects of their education. He announced that the training grounds would now be open to all branches from this year onwards, expressing hope that all the students would achieve greatness during their stay at the institution and contribute to the creation of a better world.
Sakura, reflecting on the concept of a "better world," couldn't help but find a glimmer of excitement in the prospect. She thought to herself, "'Better world,' huh. Looks like this can be fun after all."