In the heart of the castle, the office of Headmaster Jeor Mount, leader of the prestigious Elden Academy, was bathed in a warm, golden light that danced off the walls, giving the room a cozy and inviting ambiance. The flickering flames of the fireplace cast long shadows across the floor, adding to the room's enchanting atmosphere.
Behind the headmaster's imposing chair hung a row of portraits, each depicting a stern-faced figure from the annals of the academy's history—former headmasters who had guided generations of students with wisdom and grace.
Seated behind his desk, Headmaster Jeor, an SS rank individual with the esteemed bloodline of the Mount family, exuded an aura of authority and wisdom that was unmatched. Despite his 150 years of age, his white hair and neatly trimmed beard lent him an air of dignity, while his piercing green eyes sparkled with a keen intelligence that belied his years.
As he delved into his work, Headmaster Jeor's brow furrowed in concentration, his quill moving with precision across the parchment before him.
CRACK!!! CRACK!!!
The crackling of the fire provided a soothing backdrop to the rhythmic scratching of his quill, a symphony of intellect and diligence.
Just as he settled into his task,
Rat-tat-tat !!!
A sharp knock reverberated through the room, causing Headmaster Jeor to glance up with a stern look.
"Enter," he called, his voice carrying the weight of authority tempered with goodwill, knowing it was his trusted assistant, Eri, who sought entrance.
As the door creaked open, Eri stepped into Headmaster Jeor's office, her presence commanding attention despite her modest stature. Standing at around 5 feet 7 inches tall, she possessed an aura of confidence that belied her youth. Her jet-black hair cascaded in glossy waves around her shoulders, framing a face of exquisite beauty accentuated by warm brown eyes that sparkled with intelligence and determination.
At just 24 years old, Eri had already achieved the remarkable status of an A rank individual at Elden Academy, a testament to her undeniable talent and dedication. Unlike some of her peers who hailed from powerful bloodlines, Eri's rise to prominence was a testament to her sheer skill and determination. She had mastered various arts and techniques, honing her abilities to stand as a formidable force in her own right, undeterred by the lack of prestigious lineage.
With a graceful bow, Eri approached Headmaster Jeor's desk, her expression composed yet filled with an air of quiet resolve. Despite her youthful appearance, there was a maturity and wisdom in her demeanor that spoke volumes about her character.
"Good afternoon, Headmaster," Eri greeted with a respectful nod, her voice carrying a hint of confidence tempered by humility.
"What brings you here, Eri?" he asked in a monotonous tone, not even looking up from his work.
"Sir, I come bearing the latest reports on the academy's initiatives, particularly regarding the new admissions for this year's program," Eri said, her tone even and professional as she forwarded a file.
"Okay. Keep it there, I will look into it," the headmaster said, pointing to the table in his office where all the other files were kept. He continued working without pausing for a moment. Eri placed the file on the side table among the many others. With practiced efficiency, she laid out the documents on Headmaster Jeor's desk, each page detailing the profiles of the incoming students—bright young minds eager to embark on their journey at Elden Academy.
Completing her task, she then gracefully bowed and began to leave the headmaster's office.
"Wait," the headmaster called out, causing Eri to pause mid-step. For the first time, the headmaster's quill stopped, and he looked directly at Eri.
"Yes, sir?" Eri responded promptly.
"Are there any noteworthy individuals in this year's batch with powerful bloodline abilities?" the headmaster asked, maintaining his stern demeanor.
"Yes, sir. This year's batch has multiple students who have high potential and a high bloodline grade. If I may say so, this year's batch has shown remarkable growth in human potential," Eri answered confidently.
Hearing this, the headmaster stood up from his seated position and slowly walked towards the window in the room. As he reached there, he took a deep breath, refocusing his thoughts. he looked at the sky.
"Eri, do you know why us humans are the weakest creatures in the Races?" the headmaster asked in a low tone, but it was clear enough for her to hear.
"Sir, we humans were the last to get introduced to Mana and its function. We do not have enough lifespan to reach our full potential, and also we are not technologically advanced like dwarves," Eri replied in a single breath, pointing out the weaknesses of humans. However, she also knew that if someone else had asked this question, especially someone other than the headmaster, her answer might have been different, considering her lack of noble blood.
Hearing this answer, the headmaster continued looking at the sky.
"But in recent years, the average potential of humans has been rising, and there are a few noteworthy students in both second and third years who are breaking every record in the academy's history, again and again."
He took a pause and continued,
"And this year's batch is even more exceptional… Why do you think that is happening, Eri?" At the end of the sentence, the headmaster looked at Eri for her answer.
"Sir, recent research has shown that the amount of mana present in the atmosphere is rising, which is giving these results," Eri replied.
Taking in Eri's answer, the headmaster turned around again and looked at the sky.
"Yes, you are right. In the past few years, mana has been increasing, resulting in the birth of exceptional talents in children… But do you think it's a problem in itself?"
"Sorry, sir, but I don't see any problem in it," Eri replied, acknowledging her lack of knowledge for the first time and looking to the headmaster for an answer.
"From my perspective, it looks like the world is preparing itself," the headmaster said, then fell silent, not adding anything further.
Eri, waiting for the headmaster to continue, waited patiently for an answer that never came. Understanding that it was her cue, she bowed her head and left the headmaster's office. The headmaster remained, gazing at the sky, keeping the mystery to himself.
.....