We already arrived in the course room. Old man Doome showed me this room before we got out to 'welcome' Emeric.
The room was quite spacious, enough to contain 100 students.
Since I already brought him here, I went to take a seat in the middle of the second row since the class needed to be filled. Emeric took a seat at the front of the first row.
Now, all we had to do was wait for others and the instructor to arrive.
Since it was boring to wait and I couldn't talk with Emeric, I decided to meditate.
Soon, more than half an hour later, I heard footsteps approaching our room. Maybe I was focused it was clear there were a few people.
I already knew who they were, so I kept my eyes closed. Well, after taking a glance at Emeric who also seemed to realize who they were.
"EEK!"
The doors opened and they came in.
I instantly felt four gazes fixated on me, two quickly shifted while two remained.
'It's rude to stare at people, you know' was what I wanted to say, but I pretended to be unaware.
It was most likely my sister and Aurelius, perhaps Ren who was still glaring at me. After all, Lyra would obviously spot Emeric and run toward him.
"E-Emeric! Are you ok?" I was right. "Nothing happened back in the lake, right?" I heard Lyra's worried question.
Since the gazes shifted away from me, I slightly opened my eyes.
Then I saw Aurelius and Aurelia taking their usual positions in every classroom (Since they are sitting together as usual, nothing must have happened. Good.) While Ren walked toward the middle of the first row.
Emeric first looked at Aurelius and then answered Lyra.
"I'm fine, nothing happened."
"Hehe, good."
Sigh, how much of a lovestruck are you?
"And... sorry..." I heard Emeric's muttering in a low voice. (He probably said this.)
I saw Lyra's eyes widening slightly before smiling brightly. "Hehe, don't worry."
Seeing their interaction, I can't help but think they really suited each other. But I also know Emeric sees Lyra only as his friend and not a woman. A cliche, right?
Well, he pretty much sees any other girl than Aria as a potential friend or rival. A S.I.M.P.
But, don't worry Emeric, I will try my best to change your and Lyra's fate. after all, you didn't willingly become a villain and deserve a chance to turn over. That's my wish as a reader.
After this, the class went silent once again. I continued with my meditation.
About another half an hour later, I heard a swoosh sound and a lot of things collapsing on the podium side.
I opened my eyes to see several students collapsing on the floor.
'So, Doome is here.' I thought to myself.
Soon after, the room opened and the man himself entered followed by another batch of students.
"Since everybody is here, go quickly take your seats." Doome ordered to both groups who were following him and appeared on the podium.
"Y-Yes."
As everyone settled into their seats, Instructor Doome stood tall at the podium, his commanding presence filling the room. He cleared his throat, capturing the attention of the students, before beginning his speech.
"Good afternoon, students," he started, his voice carrying authority. "For those who don't know me yet, I am Instructor Doome, and I am here to guide you through this Survival Training Course."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing.
"The purpose of this course is simple yet crucial: to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to survive in the challenging and unpredictable world beyond the academy walls. As Awakeners, it is imperative that you not only master your abilities but also learn to adapt and thrive in any situation that may arise."
Doome's words resonated with the students, reminding them of the weight and importance of their training.
"But in order for me to get to know your capabilities, I set up three tests for you. Some of you failed right at the first test, while some of you managed to pass all three. Now, you may be wondering why I chose to incorporate three tests before notifying you," he continued, addressing the curiosity that no doubt lingered in the minds of many. "The reason is simple: to assess your abilities, your mindset, your resilience, and your capacity to overcome adversity."
"And I am honestly both disappointed and impressed by what I have seen so far," Doome added, his gaze sweeping over the assembled students. "Disappointed because some of you showed a lack of preparation, focus, courage, or determination, leading to failure in the face of relatively simple challenges. But impressed because others demonstrated remarkable skill, ingenuity, and courage, proving that they have what it takes to excel in this course and beyond."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the room, the students recognizing the truth in Doome's words.
I noticed a few students shrinking slightly, huh, they were the ones who fainted right away after all.
"Now, I won't beat around the bush. My Survival Training won't be easy but its purpose is to push you to your limits, to challenge you, and to help you grow stronger, both physically and mentally," Doome continued, his voice growing more intense as he spoke. "Those who want to quit, raise your hands, don't worry I won't beat you."
Hehe, yes you will.
However, there were still some students who raised their hands.
"Now, listen clearly - You. Can't. QUIT." He declared firmly, his words echoing throughout the room with undeniable authority. "Since you signed up for my course, there is no turning back now. Well, if you want to quit really, then prepare to drop out of the academy. I am good friends with the Principal, you know."
Sigh, you are using this method to scare them now, huh?
"So, anyone wants to quit?"
"...." As expected, no one uttered a word or raised their hands.
"Good, good." Doome nodded his head in satisfaction. "Since you are all so eager to learn, I will prepare a plan suited for everyone. But before we start, I want to say something..."