The orientation week was underway, and the hopefuls of Cardinal Peaks mustered their steps into the Gear Academy. The youths who were accepted were sent to the primary education facilities.
Parents holding the hands of their seven-year-olds filled the primary education facilities, their faces a mix of pride and bittersweet emotions. Zanno, along with his father Jengo pushing his wheelchair, joined the bustling crowd, their excitement palpable.
Inside the academy, the corridors echoed with laughter and chatter as children explored their new surroundings. The walls were adorned with colorful artwork, showcasing the creativity and imagination of the young minds that would shape the future. The air was filled with a sense of possibility as if every corner held the potential for a new discovery.
Zanno's heart swelled with anticipation as he observed the diverse group of children around him. Some were brimming with confidence, already eager to showcase their magical abilities, while others were more reserved, their curiosity shining through their wide eyes. It was a mosaic of young talent, each with their own strengths and aspirations.
The orientation week aimed to foster a sense of community and introduce the budding students to the foundations of magic and technology. Zanno and his fellow hopefuls attended introductory classes where they learned about the fundamental principles of spellcasting, potion-making, and the integration of magic with technology.
Experienced wizards and technologists from the capital acting as instructors, guided the children with patience and enthusiasm, encouraging them to explore their innate talents and guiding them toward their chosen paths. Zanno found himself captivated by the possibilities that lay before him, eager to unravel the mysteries of magic and harness its potential.
Outside the classrooms, the young hopefuls engaged in group activities and team-building exercises. They embarked on quests, solving riddles and puzzles that challenged their problem-solving skills and fostered collaboration. Through these activities, bonds formed, friendships blossomed, and a sense of camaraderie emerged among the children.
For Zanno, the orientation week was a time of self-discovery. He experimented with spells, tinkered with enchanted objects, and eagerly absorbed the knowledge shared by his instructors. He discovered a knack for alchemy, finding joy in the delicate balance of ingredients and the transformative effects of his creations.
As the orientation week came to a close, Zanno felt a mix of excitement and a touch of nervousness. The real journey was about to begin—the years of learning, growth, and exploration that awaited him at the Gear Academy. But he was not alone. He had found companions who shared his dreams and aspirations, and together, they would navigate the challenges and triumphs that lay ahead.
With his father Jengo by his side, Zanno looked forward to the years of education and mentorship that awaited him. He knew that the journey would be filled with ups and downs, but he was prepared to embrace it with an open mind and a determined spirit.
The curriculum at the Gear Academy was designed to challenge and inspire students. Zanno found himself engrossed in a wide range of subjects, from advanced spellcasting and enchantment theory to technological innovations and their application in magical realms. The coursework was demanding, requiring dedication, critical thinking, and a balance between theoretical understanding and practical application.
As the doors of the primary education facilities closed behind him and his fellow hopefuls, Zanno took a deep breath, ready to embark on this extraordinary adventure. The orientation week had ignited a spark within him, and now it was up to him to nurture it into a blazing flame of knowledge, innovation, and magic.
◈◈◈
「 Zanno 」
"Class 1 Red..."
"This must be the place."
Zanno stopped in front of a classroom, looking at the sign above its doors. He was assigned to this class because it was the nearest to the emergency exit. Much thought had been given to his class placement because of his 'disabled' status.
Zanno maneuvered his wheelchair through the classroom, finding a spot in the back that provided him with ample space to navigate comfortably. He positioned himself, ensuring that he had a clear view of the front, where the teacher would soon stand to begin the day's lessons.
As the other students filled the classroom, Zanno observed their interactions and conversations. Some exchanged friendly greetings, while others busied themselves with unpacking their belongings.
He wondered how they would perceive him, how they would react to his presence. Would they treat him with kindness and acceptance, or would he face judgment and exclusion?
Just as Zanno's thoughts began to wander, the teacher entered the classroom, capturing the attention of the students. The teacher, Ms. Melor, greeted the class warmly, her enthusiasm and genuine smile creating an atmosphere of inclusiveness and acceptance.
「 Ms. Melor 」
"Good morning class!"
"I hope you all had a wonderful time last week."
"My name is Ms. Melor, and I'll be your homeroom teacher."
"I'm thrilled to have each and every one of you here..."
"Ready to embark on a journey of learning and discovery together?"
「 Class 1 Red 」
"Yeaaahhh..."
Ms. Melor stood at the front of the classroom with a vibrant and friendly demeanor. Her warm smile and sparkling eyes radiated a genuine enthusiasm for teaching and connecting with her students. She had a nurturing presence that immediately put the students at ease.
Her appearance was professional yet approachable. She wore a colorful blouse that reflected her deep personality, and her neatly styled hair framed her face with elegance. Ms. Melor's warm and inviting aura made it clear that she was not just a teacher but also a mentor and guide.
Ms. Melor had a knack for making every student feel seen and valued. She took the time to learn about each individual's strengths, interests, and challenges. Her approach was inclusive, ensuring that all students had an equal opportunity to contribute and thrive in the classroom.
She had a deep understanding of the diverse needs of her students and was proactive in creating an environment that accommodated those needs. Whether it was providing additional resources, adapting assignments, or facilitating open discussions, Ms. Melor went above and beyond to ensure that everyone felt supported and included.
Her teaching style was engaging and interactive, incorporating a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning preferences. She encouraged critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, fostering an atmosphere where students felt comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas.
Ms. Melor possessed a remarkable ability to connect with her students on a personal level. She actively listened to their concerns, celebrated their achievements, and offered guidance and encouragement when needed. Her genuine care for each student's well-being extended beyond the academic realm, creating a nurturing and safe space for everyone.
With her unwavering dedication and commitment to her students, Ms. Melor embodied the qualities of an exceptional educator. She believed in the transformative power of education and was determined to empower her students to reach their full potential.
Zanno felt fortunate to have Ms. Melor as his homeroom teacher. Her welcoming nature and inclusive approach helped him overcome his initial worries and embrace the classroom community.
Under her guidance, he knew he would not only receive a quality education but also develop the confidence and skills necessary to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
「 Ms. Melor 」
"Since today is our first day, there is something we all need to do."
"Class... Did you bring your Ki card with you today?"
「 Class 1 Red 」
"Yes... Ms. Melor!"
「 Ms. Melor 」
"Great!"
"Now... I will attend to each of you, one by one."
"Just take out your Ki card and put it on your table."
「 Zanno 」
"Why do you need our Ki card, Ms. Melor?"
Zanno, knowing that his Ki card was special, raised his hand as he awaited Ms. Melor's response.
「 Ms. Melor 」
"Ah, great question, Zanno!"
"A Ki card contains the personal data of the owner."
"I will insert your Ki card into this reader right here to keep your personal information as a record for the academy."
Ms. Melor's explanation piqued the curiosity of the entire class, and their attention shifted toward her.
"By knowing your details and lineage, the academy will determine the best way for you to use your talents appropriate to your magical aptitude."
Zanno nodded, intrigued by the concept. He reached into his backpack and retrieved his Ki card, placing it gently on his table alongside the others.
"Thank you, Zanno."
"Now I will begin collecting your personal data using my reader here."
Zanno felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as Ms. Melor started the registration process from the front of the class. He picked up his Ki card as Ms. Melor approached his table.
"Now Zanno, it's your turn."
"Just insert your Ki car..."
"Zanno?"
"Why is your card not activated yet?"
"Well, in that case..."
"You need to insert it in the second slot, right here."
Noticing Zanno's blank Ki card, Ms. Melor instructed Zanno to insert his Ki card into the second slot of the card reader.
"Now press the red button with your thumb..."
"Gently."
Suddenly, a sharp needle pricked Zanno's thumb, collecting his blood on the reader. As a result, his Ki card began to glow, signaling the start of the activation process. Zanno grew increasingly worried, aware of the emblem that would soon appear on his card.
The emblem that appeared on his Ki card did not look like a zak'nagi emblem at all. It was an emblem that resembled a lion, much to Zanno's surprise. He let out a sigh of relief, mixed with confusion.
"A lion emblem!"
"You must be related to the mayor, Zanno!"
Zanno looked at Ms. Melor with a puzzled expression, unsure of what she meant by being related to the mayor due to the lion emblem on his Ki card. He had never heard of any connection to the mayor before.
「 Zanno 」
"Um, Ms. Melor, I don't think I have any relation to the Mayor."
"I'm not even sure how this lion emblem ended up on my Ki card."
"Is there a mistake?"
Ms. Melor smiled warmly, understanding Zanno's confusion.
「 Ms. Melor 」
"Oh, Zanno, don't worry."
"The Ki cards sometimes have symbols that represent certain qualities or characteristics, but they don't necessarily indicate a direct family connection."
"The lion emblem might symbolize courage, strength, or leadership, which could be qualities you possess."
Zanno nodded, relieved to know that the emblem wasn't implying a direct family relation. He felt a sense of pride at the thought that the lion emblem represented positive qualities within him.
「 Zanno 」
"I see, Ms. Melor."
"That makes sense."
"Thank you for explaining."
"I'm glad to have a symbol of a lion on my Ki card."
「 Ms. Melor 」
"You're welcome, Zanno."
"Emblems on Ki cards can be intriguing and often reveal surprises and hidden strengths."
"It's all part of embracing the diversity and uniqueness of oneself."
"Now, let's continue with the registration process, and we'll discover more about everyone's Ki cards."
As Ms. Melor continued the registration, Zanno's initial confusion transformed into curiosity and excitement. His emblem is not of a zak'nagi, but a lion instead. He looked forward to unraveling the meanings behind the symbols and learning more about the hidden qualities they held.