The grand hall of the Academy buzzed with anticipation as first-year students gathered for their inaugural assembly. Fixia and Sylphia found themselves among the crowd, their eyes wide with excitement and a hint of nervousness. The Head Master took the stage, his commanding presence silencing the room as he began his speech, outlining the rules and regulations that governed the Academy.
"Ahh it's the Head Master, I've heard lots of rumours about him."
Sylphia quietly whispered to Fixia.
"One of the rumours said, he will expel anyone who he thinks is unsuitable for this school."
"So we should try to be always on his good side."
Sylphia whispered.
"I don't know what I'm supposed to do with this information but I'll keep that in mind."
Fixia replied with a confused look.
After the Head Master's address, a hushed murmur spread through the assembly as the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. The Top Student, hailed for his exceptional abilities, was called upon to deliver a speech, his words carrying weight and influence. Fixia and Sylphia exchanged glances, intrigued by the prospect of witnessing the prowess of the one who stood at the pinnacle of their year.
"He's the one who scored the most in the entrance exam."
"And rumours say he completed all his tests with ease."
Sylphia said to Fixia.
As the Top Student took the stage, an air of rivalry filled the hall. All eyes were upon him, and the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. Fixia listened intently, her analytical mind absorbing his every word. It was said that he had effortlessly overcome the test trials, displaying unrivaled skill and talent.
In that moment, Fixia's thoughts raced, contemplating the possibility of challenging the Top Student.
"If I challenge him to a dual, and if I win my level will increase substantially."
"But only if I win that is."
"And also it might bring unnecessary attention, that I don't want."
"Why would he accept a challenge from me, who doesn't even seem strong."
Fixia thought.
A victory against him would not only boost her experience points but also bring attention and recognition to her name. However, she hesitated, wary of drawing unnecessary attention to herself.
"For now I should avoid getting attention while I try to raise my level."
Fixia preferred to remain in the shadows, quietly honing her skills and steadily rising through the ranks.
Meanwhile, the Top Student's speech ignited a fiery determination within the hearts of the first year students.
"Morning everyone."
"My name is Georyy, and my level is 48."
"Higher than any students present here."
The top student gave the speech sounding haughty and filled with ego.
"I stand here because of my abilities and effort."
"Which means I'm better than everyone present here."
"I came first in the entrance test without even trying, while everyone else looked like they might just give up."
"I'll give you some motivation."
"I am better than you, I am stronger than you."
"Don't believe me, well than anyone can challenge me anytime and I promise I will accept it everytime."
"Because I know the fight won't be long."
"I would love to see your humiliated faces."
His words angered a the whole student body. As if he was trying to provoke them and make them his enemies. Well he did succeed in doing that as almost every student thought of beating him.
Fixia and Sylphia engaged in a whispered conversation, their voices barely audible amidst the mounting energy of the assembly.
"Wow! he just made all the students his enemies on his first day."
"This guy has some ego."
Fixia whispered to Sylphia.
"Yea! he's full of himself, but still he did come first."
"So maybe he's not just talks."
Sylphia replied while also whispering.
"Looking now, maybe he'll accept my request of challenge just to satisfy his ego."
Fixia thought.
Would Fixia dare challenge him and risk the attention it might bring? Or would she continue her ascent in the shadows, mastering her unique leveling methods away from prying eyes?
As the Top Student concluded his speech, the hall was dead silence filled with agony and anger. Fixia's decision loomed before her, the weight of her potential actions resting on her shoulders. The journey through the Academy had only just begun, and the path to recognition and strength was fraught with choices and challenges.
With determination burning in her eyes, Fixia made a silent vow to follow her own path, embracing her unconventional methods while striving for growth and self-improvement. As the echoes of applause faded, she knew that the coming days would bring both trials and triumphs, and she was ready to face them head-on.