The morning sun streamed through the classroom windows, casting a warm glow over the students as they took their seats. Cruzer's mind was still swirling with thoughts of the past and the harsh words exchanged with Alisha and Rin. He tried to focus as their homeroom teacher, Mr. Alex Johnson, entered the room.
Mr. Johnson was a striking figure, a handsome middle-aged man with blonde hair and sharp, blue eyes. His features were chiseled, giving him a distinguished appearance that commanded respect. His fair skin and confident demeanor exuded an air of authority, and his tall, athletic build added to his imposing presence. Known for his dedication to nurturing young Mystics, he stood at the front of the class, immediately capturing everyone's attention.
The students fell silent as he began to speak. "Good morning, everyone," Mr. Johnson started, his voice firm yet encouraging. "As you are all aware, your final exams are approaching. This marks a critical juncture in your academic journey, as you will soon be transitioning to high school."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "Our academy is renowned for its rigorous standards and exceptional training. Only those who advance from Novice to Adept Mystic have a chance to enter our affiliated college, Arcadia High."
At the mention of Arcadia High, a hush fell over the room. The high school was legendary, known for producing some of the greatest Mystics in history.
"To help you understand the importance of this transition," Mr. Johnson continued, "let me explain the talent ranking system we use here. Your talents are ranked in order of metals, each representing your potential and proficiency."
He turned to the board and started writing:
0 Star Copper Talent: Mystics with 0 Star Talent could advance to the Adept level with hard effort but would be stuck at this level for as long as they remained alive, unless they had a fortuitous encounter that could upgrade their talent level.
1 Star Bronze Talent: Mystics with 1 Star Talent could advance to the Adept level with slightly less effort compared to 0 Star Talents. They had a slight chance to break through to the Intermediate level.
2 Star Silver Talent: Mystics with 2 Star Talent could advance to the Intermediate level. They had a better foundation and could progress further than those with lower talents, but they would still need extreme hard work to reach the Advanced stage and a fortuitous encounter to go beyond.
3 Star Gold Talent: Mystics with 3 Star Talent had the potential to reach the Advanced level. They possessed a higher natural affinity for magic, allowing them to achieve greater mastery and versatility in their spells.
4 Star Platinum Talent: Mystics with 4 Star Talent could reach the Master level. These individuals were considered prodigies, capable of performing extraordinary feats and mentoring others in their magical journey.
5 Star Adamantite Talent: Mystics with 5 Star Talent had the potential to ascend to the Archmage level, enabling them to become Ascendant individuals, free from mortal limitations.
"Even though you have already been tested for your talents," Mr. Johnson turned back towards the students, "we will conduct another assessment tomorrow. This will help us check your current level and ensure there were no mistakes in previous talent testing. We will be able to tailor the training sessions accordingly to help you break through to the Adept level."
He scanned the room, his eyes landing on Alisha and Rin. "I would like to take a moment to acknowledge two of our outstanding students. Alisha and Rin have not only demonstrated the highest talents but have also recently broken through to the Adept level."
The class turned to look at Alisha and Rin, murmurs of admiration and envy spreading among the students. Cruzer felt a pang of frustration mixed with determination.
"Miss Alisha," Mr. Johnson continued, "your progress has been remarkable. From mastering complex spells to showing exceptional control over your abilities, you exemplify what it means to be a Platinum Talent."
Alisha gave a small nod, her expression one of pride and satisfaction.
"And Miss Rin," Mr. Johnson added, "your mastery of your inherited bloodline and your overall growth as a Mystic have been extraordinary. Your dedication and skill make you a true prodigy."
Rin's cold demeanor remained the same while Alisha gave an elegant smile as they both bowed to their teacher and took their seats.
Mr. Johnson faced the rest of the class again. "Remember, while you may all be the cream of the crop compared to those outside our school, within these walls, only the truly exceptional can advance. Use this upcoming assessment and training to push your limits. Strive to reach the Adept level and secure your place at Arcadia High."
The students listened intently, the weight of Mr. Johnson's words pressing upon them. Cruzer felt a surge of nervousness as he was one of the weaker ones in his batch. His talent was only 3 stars, meaning he was an average-level Mystic. Three-star talents hardly ever made it to their affiliated high school unless they possessed a unique ability comparable to the geniuses of higher tiers.
He knew the path ahead wouldn't be easy, but he was determined to prove himself and solve the mysterious circumstances regarding his dual memory and transmigration.
As the class ended and the students began to leave, Cruzer couldn't help but glance at Alisha and Rin. Their achievements served as a stark reminder of the gap between them and also made him understand that in this world, without talent and power, no one would care about him.
He still had not arranged his jumbled memory properly, so he decided to head to the library and finish brushing up on his basics so that he could prepare himself to officially start his journey as a Mystic.
As he gathered his things, he muttered to himself, "I won't let them look down on me forever. I'll find my own path. I'll uncover the truth about my past and become someone they can't ignore."
With a determined heart, Cruzer headed to the library.