As the first rays of the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and gold, the National Magicia Academy's cadets began to emerge, dressed in their dignified academy uniforms, each marked with symbols representing their respective classes.
The uniforms exuded a sense of both dignity and style, perfectly befitting the prestigious institution they attended.
Azrael, Luna, and Theo walked side by side, passing through the majestic gateway of the academy. The emblem on their attire served as a visual representation of their individual journeys, each reflecting their unique classes.
They were clad in long, dark chocolate coats that waved behind them like elegant capes, adorned with subtle golden accents on the left shoulder, which shimmered in the gentle morning light.
Beneath these coats, they sported tailored black shirts and matching black ties. Completing their ensemble were well-fitted black trousers that seamlessly blended with the overall aesthetic.
On the right chest of their academy uniforms, an exquisite emblem adorned their attire—a phoenix with a star-like crest on its head and wings elegantly sweeping upward. This was the arcane crest of the National Magicia Academy, the emblem adding a touch of harmony to their attire.
On the left chest, the symbol of their respective cadet class was proudly displayed. For ordinary class cadets, it was a basic star symbol; for extraordinary class members, a larger, more radiant star; and for the elite class, a radiant star surrounded by smaller ones, signifying their pinnacle status.
As they stepped onto the academy grounds, Luna, Theo, and Azrael paused for a brief moment, their paths diverging.
Luna glanced at Azrael and Theo, a hint of nervousness in her eyes. "Good luck, you two. See you later."
Theo offered a reassuring smile. "You'll do great, Luna. Don't worry too much."
Azrael nodded in agreement. "Just be yourself. We'll catch up after classes."
With those words of encouragement, they went their separate ways, each into their respective classes. Luna headed toward her ordinary class, Theo toward the extraordinary class.
Azrael strode toward the elite class housed in a magnificent building within the heart of the academy—an emblem of excellence and aspiration.
The interior of the Elite class was spacious and elegant, with blue walls and white columns that reached the high ceiling. Sunlight streamed through the windows on the side and back wall, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
Rows of wooden benches filled the room, where the students would sit and listen to lectures. At the front of the class, a podium stood ready for instructors to teach, and behind it, a large blackboard. The class door was situated next to the podium.
Within the classroom, cadets were scattered about, each engrossed in their activities.
Some engaged in lively conversations with friends, their laughter filling the air. Others rested their head comfortably cushioned on their folded arms, while a select few delved into their studies, their focus undisturbed by the surrounding bustle.
Familiar faces dotted the room, such as Leo Harrington, Kim Hyunwoo, Kim Yerin, and Thant Zin.
Leo and the Kim siblings were deeply engrossed in conversation, their striking appearances and natural charm giving them an air of royalty. As they spoke, a few nearby cadets observed their conversation, their curiosity piqued, but none dared join into their exclusive circle.
Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the room, Thant Zin was encircled by several cadets who engaged him in lively conversation, his annoyance apparent as he halfheartedly responded to their eager chatter, his mind seemingly preoccupied with other thoughts.
However, the entire class's attention shifted to Azrael as he made his entrance.
His recent feats had catapulted him to fame within the academy, starting with his astounding performance during the admission test to his exceptional displays in previous competitions.
Now, as he stepped into the Elite class, a palpable silence descended.
Thant Zin, who had noticed Azrael's arrival, attempted to approach him.
However, his intentions were disrupted by the timely entrance of the instructors, diverting the cadets' attention.
"Cadets, find your seats," one of the instructors announced.
Without delay, the cadets began to scramble to their respective benches, and Azrael soon found his place, settling in next to a large window with a view of the academy grounds.
The atmosphere turned silent and serious as the three instructors entered the class.
The anticipation in the room heightened as the instructors made their entrance, each one commanding attention in their own unique way.
First to step in was a man dressed impeccably in a crisp white suit. With every confident stride he took, he exuded an air of authority and sophistication.
He was tall, with commanding physique, broad shoulders, and long legs, his purposeful steps, were resembling a military general. Neatly combed brown hair framed his face, and a meticulously trimmed beard added to his aura of professionalism.
This man was none other than Hendra Pratama, a figure well-known to many of the cadets. He had previously overseen the opening battles for class placements.
Following behind Hendra was Sable, her presence easily recognizable by her exotic, deep brown skin and short, curly brown hair. She wore a form-fitting red top and black leggings, with levitating booster bands strapped to both of her legs, a clear indicator of her expertise in both combat and magic.
The final instructor followed a man in his forties with a slender build. He had dark ginger hair cropped short, and his glasses framed his face with an air of intellect. Dressed in a white lab coat that was buttoned up and had pockets on both sides, he projected an aura of calm and collected composure.
Hendra stepped ahead of his peers and moved to the podium.
He introduced himself as Hendra Pratama, a name all the cadets were already familiar with. Sable and the dark ginger-haired instructor stood behind him, their presence adding weight to the class.
In his commanding presence, Hendra embarked on his introductory speech.
"Welcome to the elite class, cadets. I trust you've all settled in well. Now, let's begin. Here's what you will be learning during your time at this esteemed academy..."
Hendra Pratama stood tall at the podium, his aura filling the room as he commenced the explanation of the three-year curriculum at the National Magicia Academy.
"Throughout your journey here, you will undergo a rigorous and comprehensive training program, one that will shape you into exceptional Magicia," he continued, his voice carrying authority and conviction. "In your first year, you will lay the foundation for your magical knowledge. You will delve deep into theory, gaining an understanding of the fundamental principles of magic and its myriad applications."
Hendra paused momentarily, allowing the significance of his words to sink in.
"In your second year," Hendra continued, his voice unwavering, "you will put theory into practice. It's a year where you'll face real challenges, including encounters with formidable monsters, exploration of treacherous dungeons, and the handling of gates."
The mention of these challenges stirred excitement among many cadets, including Thant Zin, who had eagerly awaited this part of their education.
Azrael, too, was intrigued by the prospect of facing and slaying monsters, knowing that they could yield valuable resources that can be exchanged for various purposes, from currency to rare items.
Hendra pressed on, his flow steady. "In your third year, you will have the freedom to explore specialized areas of magic that align with your interests. This is your opportunity to excel in the fields that resonate with you the most."
"Now, as we move forward, let me introduce your esteemed instructors."
He pointed a hand towards Instructor Sable, who stood behind him, her presence exuding competence and expertise.
"Instructor Sable here will be your guide in honing your individual battle abilities. She will prepare you for self-defense and strengthen your combat prowess. Her wealth of experience in this domain will be invaluable to your development."
Next, Hendra made a sweeping gesture towards Professor Sebastian, the composed man clad in the white lab coat—another distinguished instructor of the National Magicia Academy.
"Professor Sebastian will serve as your guide in comprehending the vast tapestry of magical theory and its intricate history. Through his guidance, you will gain profound insights into the origins and evolution of magic."
Returning his focus to the assembled cadets, Hendra stood tall at the podium.
"And finally, I, as your instructor, will oversee your strategic education. As elite cadets, the academy expects more than just formidable magical prowess from you. We expect you to become leaders capable to strategize and lead others effectively. That is where my role comes into play. I will impart the art of strategy, the skill of planning, and how to lead effectively."
He allowed a moment of pause, allowing the weight of the information to settle among the cadets.
"That concludes today's briefing. You are now free to go. Tomorrow, your lessons begin. For those of you interested in joining the discipline committee, remain in the classroom for a moment."
With Hendra's briefing concluded, the cadets dispersed, their minds buzzing with the exciting possibilities of their upcoming education.
As the elite class session came to an end, Azrael rose from his seat next to a window. He moved toward the classroom's exit.
As he made his way toward the classroom's exit, his path was suddenly blocked by Thant Zin. Thant Zin's eyes glinted with an intensity that hinted at his battle-hungry nature.
"Fight me," Thant Zin demanded, his voice firm and unwavering.
Azrael, however, remained unfazed by the challenge.
He met Thant Zin's provocation with an indifferent gaze, "Not interested." he continued on his way, sidestepping Thant Zin's demand.
Undeterred, Thant Zin raised his voice, frustration creeping into his tone. "Hey?! Tell me why?"
Azrael maintained his silence and continued to walk away from the persistent challenger.
Exiting the classroom and entering the main academy building's hallway, Azrael were greeted by the warm smiles of Luna and Theo. Their presence provided a welcome distraction from the annoying intensity of Thant Zin's challenge.