Morning classes had already passed, and the subjects here were more diverse than just monster subjugation and combat training.
The term "science" existed in this world as well, but it had its unique terminology and differences in content.
When compared to Alex's previous life, the scientific content here was somewhat behind, and certain concepts were absent.
Physics covered basics like gravity, force, and motion, but advanced theories like quantum mechanics, relativity, or string theory were unheard of.
In biology, they studied both human and monster physiology. The Knight Faculty emphasized the former, while the Magic Faculty focused on the latter.
Chemistry was replaced by alchemy in this world, albeit in a less refined form.
Perhaps these Earth concepts weren't essential here, given the presence of mana and the drastically different environment.
These insights were gleaned from Alex's visit to the Knight Faculty's library.
After lunch, they had a free period or self-study time, during which teachers left them to their devices. Alex intended to spend it at the library to gather more information.
Although he had memories of this place, he planned to explore the academy regardless, as discovering something new was always refreshing.
The academy's beauty was captivating, with lush greenery all around and a serene park centered around a grand fountain.
'I got carried away and forgot about them.' He thought as he noticed a group of three boys surrounding him.
One of them eyed him like a predator stalking its prey, while the others two wore mocking smirks.
The one at the forefront clearly held the leadership position in the gang.
Marcus, hailed from a prosperous merchant family. He cut an imposing figure, standing tall with a robust build, his dark skin contrasting sharply with his blond hair.
His appearance, while not exceptional, could certainly be described as decent. He belonged to the Intermediate class of the Knight Faculty.
The previous Alex had bumped into him during the academy's first week, inadvertently sparking his bullying.
While Alex had tried to apologize and walk away, Marcus seized on his timid demeanor and commoner status to subject him to constant torment and harassment.
The faculty's indifference to Alex's complaints only made his life more miserable.
"What do you want, Marcus?" Alex met his gaze, showing no signs of fear and questioned his presence.
"Oh, so the little rabbit has grown a backbone?"
"Where are my credit points for this month?"
'I completely forgot their extortion.' But Alex had no intention of continuing that now. He was no longer the same Alex.
"Why should I give my credits to you, Marcus?"
The academy operated on a unique credit point system, wherein every student was allocated points based on their merit and other achievements.
These points could be used in lieu of currency when making purchases of goods and services within the academy.
This system was rigorously upheld, leveling the playing field for all, including those from aristocratic or wealthy backgrounds who were required to earn merit points to access academy facilities and conduct transactions.
Every class had its designated points allocation, supplemented by additional points granted for achievements or advancements, and these allocations were distributed on a monthly basis.
"You piece of trash, did you grow some balls or what, huh?" Marcus's frustration was evident, his hands clenched tightly.
"Our 'boss' obviously requires more points than you do, trash."
"Yes, he ranks in the top three of our class."
"Boss, give me five minutes, and I'll have him reverting back to his obedient, meek self."
The two lackeys chimed in, looking at Alex like thugs ready to pounce at any moment. Their praises seemed to pacify Marcus.
"From now on, don't expect me to hand over my potions to you." Alex dismissed the duo of clowns and locked eyes with Marcus, delivering his answer.
"Boys, let's teach him a lesson and remind him who's in charge here."
Those were the last words Alex heard before Marcus and his followers descended upon him, battering him until he could no longer hold on.
◆ ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆
Arriving in this new world, Alex brimmed with expectations of the accomplishments that awaited him. He envisioned wielding extraordinary talents, background stories of epic proportions, or perhaps even the highly coveted "system" that protagonists in the novels he cherished often obtained.
However, his enthusiasm was dashed when he discovered his own lackluster abilities.
Instead of a boon, he was an orphan, and no holographic interface or guiding voice appeared when he uttered words like "system", "status" or "log in".
Initially, he didn't dwell on it, as being granted a second chance at life overshadowed his disappointment.
These thoughts had prevailed until mere minutes ago.
Now, he found himself battered and bruised, his body aching, and blood escaping his lips as he coughed.
Within him, an intense rage flared, igniting newfound determination to rise from the ashes of despair.
He questioned whether this surge was fueled solely by his emotions or if the accumulated frustration of the previous Alex had lent it strength.
The previous Alex had lived a life of bullying and neglect, and though Alex hadn't experienced it firsthand, he could empathize with his struggles.
In his previous life, he had lived in a delicate bubble, afraid that the slightest touch would shatter it.
But as his fury boiled within, he vowed silently, "I refuse to remain the weak, frail individual I once was in my previous life. I will exert myself to attain power, to obliterate anyone who dares to obstruct my path."
He winced inwardly at the clichéd nature of his thoughts, only to be interrupted as a blue, translucent screen materialized before him, accompanied by a voice in his ears.
[The system has acknowledged the host's determination]
[The system will initiate in...]
◆ ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆
Alex hauled his battered and bloodied body back to his dorm room.
Upon entering the room, he wasted no time in administering basic first aid to his wounds.
As the system began to initiate, he found it hard to contain his happiness.
If someone were here to witness him, they'd surely think he looked ridiculous with this goofy smile plastered on his face.
He chuckled at the absurdity of such a notion, considering that he was utterly alone.
Oh, how wrong he was.
He quickly went toward his bed and saw the timer reach zero, finally revealing the system screen in front of him.
"Here comes my system and the start of my otherworldly adventure."
----------------------------------------------------
[Supreme Magus System]
[System Level: 1]
[Status] [Inventory]
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With the appearance of the system screen, a barrage of information flooded into Alex's mind.
This time, it was different from when he gained the memories of this body.
This time, it was all about the system and how to operate it.
He quickly clicked on the status button on the screen.