I rushed out of the cave and ran at my fastest speed this body allows me. A 20% deduction in stats? That's basically telling me to die and I would rather not die this early on.
"I have less than 2 hours. Running at this speed, I can probably reach the station in an hour. The train should at most take up to 40 minutes to arrive and reach the dormitory. And a 20 Minute run from there. This is possible but can my body last that long?"
Then I was reminded of the skill [Sovereign's Path (EX)]. I wonder if it will allow me to reach there in time.
'[Sovereign's Path (EX)]'
The moment I activated the skill. I felt calm. The calmest I've ever felt. It was as if I were detached from the world, residing in my own serene realm. All the pain and tiredness vanished. My body automatically activates both styles, Shinra and Overclock. I didn't ieven think t was possible. Overclock damaged my mana veins to gather more mana, while Shinra used specialized footwork to run faster.
As both styles increased my speed, I felt the fastest I've ever been, my movements blurring into a seamless rush of speed. The combination of Overclock and Shinra was exhilarating, propelling me forward with an unmatched swiftness. Every step was effortless, every breath invigorating. It was as if I had transcended my physical limits, experiencing a level of agility and power I had never imagined possible.
It took me 50 minutes to reach the station. I boarded by showing my ID card, and the man at the counter approved it. I sat down on the train while the skills [Sovereign's Path] and [Overclock] were still active. Forty minutes passed, and I got off. It was only then that I realized I was lost. However, staying in the skill [Sovereign's Path (EX)] allowed me to take the best path, and I arrived in front of the classroom of Class S-1.
----
Liora von Karavia's Pov
Today is the midterms, a day when everyone is required to be present—except for one person, Alyssa Valenheart. The rank 1 student in our current grade, Alyssa is known for her punctuality, usually arriving in the classroom at exactly 8:30. She holds the distinction of being the only student in the history of Lumi Academy to achieve a perfect score of 600/600 on the writing exam. In contrast, the average score in Class S is 400/600. However, her score for the physical exam was a meager 220/400, below the Class S average of 300/400. Despite this, her total score of 820/1000 secured her the top rank, surpassing the second place, Ryder Valken, the eldest son of the northern Duke Roderic Valken, who scored 797/1000.
But today was different. She was still not here. As the clock reached 8:56 AM, the door to the lecturer's classroom opened. A powerful presence entered, one that I had only ever felt from my father, the Emperor of Karavia, the most powerful human on this continent. But it wasn't him. It was Alyssa. Drenched in sweat, her uniform covered in dirt, her black hair with fading red sticking to her face.
"Ugh"
Several students grunted, taken aback by the intensity of Alyssa's presence today. It was a stark contrast to her usual calm demeanor, and even I felt intimidated.
---
Alyssa's Pov
I walked through the door and saw multiple people in their seats, staring at me before quickly glancing away. Some looked frightened, others surprised, and a few showed no emotion at all. Ignoring their reactions, I made my way to the seat designated for the rank 1 student. The seats were arranged according to rank, and mine was right in the middle. On my left was Ryder, ranked second, and on my right was Liora, ranked third.
I just realized how disheveled I looked. My uniform was dirty, and I was drenched in sweat, but it couldn't be helped. I needed to get here as soon as possible.
[ Sub-Quest Completed ]
- Reach the Classroom of Class S-1 before 9 Am | Completed
Reward : 2% Strength and Mana
I felt a tiny boost of Strength and Mana in my body. But it was small and not worth mentioning. [Overclock] manual has stopped and I canceled '[Sovereign's Path]
Pain engulfed me, making it difficult to breathe. People around me stared as if I were crazy.
'Tch, is this how it feels to be famous?'
"Hahaha," I laughed out loud, the sound surprising even me.
Turning to my right, I saw Liora.
"Can I have some tissues? A couple of them, actually."
Liora was startled.
"Uh... sure? Here, take these"
She quickly handed me a couple of tissues before quickly looking towards the board.
Why did I ask for some tissues? Well, it's because I'm about to puke up blood.
"Bleghhh"
The tissues didn't fully absorb my blood, but they did their job well enough. Combining both manuals, [Overclock] and [Shinra Style], was bound to cause some problems for my body. I hadn't expected this much blood, but given the strain, it wasn't entirely surprising.
"Bleegh!"
Here comes the second round!
I wiped the remaining blood with my sleeves and glanced around. Everyone was staring at me.
"..."
ding ding
The school bell rang, signaling the start of class—or rather, the midterms.
Professor Verron, in charge of Class S, walked in and announced
"We will start the writing exam right now."
Ah, I forgot that Professor Verron goes straight to the point and doesn't bother with pleasantries. As he began handing out the papers, everyone quickly gathered their composure and started their exam. Except for me. I glanced over the paper and realized I knew everything.
The exam covered a range of topics: the significance of mana circles, various aspects of magical theory, the history of demons, world history, different magical complexities, and tests of our creative limits.
I swiftly completed my exam and handed it in to the professor. He gave me a brief glance before accepting my paper.
"You have to leave now, the practical exam starts in 3 hours."
"Alright"
The exam wasn't particularly challenging, especially for someone like me who had played this game for nearly 10 years. I finished quickly, walked out, and headed straight towards my dorm.
----
Verron's Pov
This kid finished the fastest again. She always seems to be ahead of everyone, but today, something is unusual about her. There's blood smeared across her sleeves, a stark contrast to the usual pristine uniform she wears. Her hair is disheveled, strands sticking out in every direction, and her face looks pale and strained.
The once noble-like student, who always carried herself with grace and poise, is now acting like a commoner, her refined demeanor replaced with a weary, almost desperate look. It's as if she's been through some unseen battle, her aura of confidence and superiority shattered.
Seeing her in this state is unsettling, a stark reminder that even the strongest can fall. She moves with less precision, her steps unsteady, and her eyes, usually sharp and focused, now seem distant and lost. It makes me wonder what could have happened to bring her to this point, to strip away the elegance and leave her looking so vulnerable.
---
Ryder's Pov
What happened to her? Suddenly throwing up a large amount of blood when she sat down. It was shocking to witness, the crimson liquid staining the ground as she gasped for breath. But, welp, it's none of my business. Her well-being isn't my concern. All I care about is proving myself. I will just beat her down to the ground again, no matter her condition. Even if she's trying to act pitiful, it won't change a thing. She can cough up blood or put on a sorrowful face, but it won't stop me. My resolve is unshakable. The next time we face each other, I'll make sure she regrets ever underestimating me. Her current state might draw sympathy from others, but to me, it's just another hurdle to overcome.
---
Alyssa's Pov
Upon reaching my dorm, I quickly took a shower, letting the hot water wash away the grime and stress of the day. I meticulously cleansed every part of my body, savoring the feeling of being refreshed. After drying off, I dressed myself neatly in comfortable clothes, appreciating the clean, crisp fabric against my skin.
Using Overclock for such an extended period has caused significant damage to my body, resulting in a temporary debuff.
[Mana Deficiency]
Decreases mana accumulation by 75%
This means that instead of an hour to replenish my mana capacity, it will now take 75% longer. Great news is that my mana capacity has increased.
[Mana Capacity] : 1/53
But the strange thing is, I expected to be in intense pain when I arrived in the classroom, given how much damage my body has sustained. I was bracing myself for agony, but I didn't feel much discomfort. Is this something I should be concerned about, or is it normal?
Casting those thoughts aside, as I stepped out of the bathroom, I felt a wave of exhaustion hit me. I made my way to the bed, sinking into the soft mattress. The comfort of the bed enveloped me, and I felt my eyelids grow heavy. I pulled the covers over myself, letting out a content sigh. As I lay there, the day's events played in my mind, but soon, the soothing embrace of sleep took over, and I drifted off into a deep, restful slumber.
---
Ryder's Pov
I haven't spotted Alyssa yet. Where is she? I'm eager to face her again and make her regret our last encounter. The last time we fought, she didn't even flinch—she absorbed my attacks with that infuriating calmness. The indifference in her eyes was palpable, as if my efforts were nothing more than a minor inconvenience to her. This time, I'm determined to ensure she truly feels the weight of her arrogance.
"Hello, Professor."
"Speak."
"I'm wondering where Alyssa is."
"… She hasn't come yet."
"..."
He walked away as everyone else prepared for the practical exam, which involved fighting each other while professors assessed their techniques and prowess.
"Alyssa and Ryder, please come up and prepare to duel!"
Three seconds passed. Then fifteen. Then thirty. Finally, a full minute.
"Alyssa has not arrived, therefore Ryder has won."
'Tch'
I wanted to defeat her and prove myself, but she skipped? I can't believe she would pull something like this. Her arrogant demeanor when she looked at me, thinking she's above it all—now it seems she's avoiding the challenge entirely.
---
Alyssa's Pov
"ahh"
I woke up in pain because of my muscles. I can barely move to get up without frowning.
"I shouldn't do that again"
Now I checked the time and it says 6:26 AM
"..."
I completely overslept and skipped the practical exam. Meaning I likely lost my position as the top student, but that's fine. Being out of the spotlight has its advantages. I can focus on regaining my strength and preparing for whatever challenges lie ahead
I got up and got dressed in the uniform. Every class has different uniforms. S Classes have 5 black stripes representing their classes, while A classes have only 4, B has 3, C has 2, and finally D has 1. Color of the uniform is determined by what year. Freshmen is blue and upperclassmen is represented by Green, Violet, and Finally White.
S-Class dormitories have their own training room with their own AI to help them configure their training room. A bedroom and a bathroom is also there for each S class dorm. This is the benefit that S class students receive.
I walked out of the dorm door and headed to the cafeteria to get my breakfast. I underestimated how large this academy is. Apparently the academy has well over 30,000 dorms for its students and staff. Training facility ranging from G ranked to even SS rooms. Transportation around the academy is also managed by Skylan Train if you want to go somewhere important. But anyways, their technology is quite amazing. They have virtual reality where it can duplicate your body in an online world with your abilities and let you train your mind in there. There are also elemental rooms that help students and professors alike to train.
The Reason for professors to even come here to teach in the first place is that they get amazing benefits. Such as providing funding for their research, training rooms up to SS class which not a lot of professors even use and the ability to freely converse with other parties of unknown origins to conduct research.
I walked towards the S class cafeteria, a place reserved exclusively for first-year students of the highest rank. As I entered, multiple people stared at me, their gazes filled with curiosity and perhaps a hint of judgment. Since I did skip the practical exam, I guess I am making myself a little more unique than others. The whispers and sideways glances followed me, but I paid them no mind.
I grabbed the breakfast handed out by the staff, a well-prepared meal befitting the academy's elite. Surveying the room, I found a table with no one at it and made my way over. The solitude was a welcome change from the usual hustle and bustle. I sat down and began eating.
'Ah I realized I can't really taste anything. This goddam curse.'
After finishing, I tapped my bracelet, the sleek device flickering to life. The holographic display showed my schedule, neatly arranged with my classes and activities for the day. I reviewed it, mentally preparing for the challenges ahead.
[Mana Fundamentals]
Strengthen foundational knowledge of magic
9:00 - 10:30
Teached by Professor Verron
[Strategic Combat Training]
Learn about Strategic Combat and Training
10:40 - 12:10
Teached by Professor Isolde
[Demonology]
To understand the nature, strengths, weaknesses, and tactics of demons.
12:40-2:10
Teached by Professor Dorian
[Physical Conditioning]
Improve the Body
2:20 - 3:00 ( Optional Afterwards )
Teached by Professor Leo
'Simple enough'
I finished up my breakfast, which consisted of perfectly cooked eggs and toast. As I tried to get up, a sharp pain suddenly shot through my left shoulder. It was unexpected and intense, causing me to stumble. My vision blurred for a moment, and before I knew it, I had fallen onto the floor.
"Oops my bad. I didn't see you there. I'm Sorry"
"Hahahaha"
The cafeteria's noise seemed to fade as the pain pulsed through me, making it hard to focus. Students nearby turned their heads, some with scorn and others with curiosity. I clenched my teeth, trying to steady my breathing and gather enough strength to stand up again. The last thing I wanted was to draw more attention, but the pain was relentless.
I got up and was hit back down again.
"Oops, that was truly my fault. Here I will help you get up."
I tried to grab his hand but he flicked and slapped my face.
"Pfft. Look at this girl thinking she can receive help"
"Right, what a lowly person, how did she even manage to get Rank 1? Doesn't matter since she's going to fall off because she skipped the practical exam."
"Hahahahaha"
Right, there are people like these. I could feel a slight sting on my right cheek, a sharp reminder of the situation. I pushed through the lingering pain in my shoulder, determined not to let it get the best of me. Gritting my teeth, I forced myself to my feet. The movement was shaky, but I managed to steady myself.
With a determined stride, I made my way toward the group of onlookers. Their murmurs and stares only fueled my resolve. I approached them, each step echoing the strength I was trying to muster despite the discomfort.
'Activate '[Sovereign's Path (EX)]' '
'Appraisal'
There is a built-in appraisal in the system that allows for the user to see their status window
[ Status ]
Name : Ronan Diaz
Age : 16
Rank : D
Strength : D+
Agility : D
Stamina : D
Intelligence : E
Mana : D-
Mana Capacity : 1510/1520
Luck : E
Charm : B
-> Profession
[Swordsmanship lvl.3]
-> Manual
[ Diaz Style (S+) ]
-> Master Mastery of 2nd Realm
-> Skills
[Basic Sword Mastery (D+)]
[Quick Slash (D+)]
[Enhanced Reflexes (C-)]
[Mana Channeling (D+)]
"Pft"
What disappointing stats compared to that bastard.
As he tried to launch another attack on me, time began to slow down. I could see his movements with crystal clarity. With [Sovereign's Path (EX)] active, it also triggered [Overclock] and unleashed the first form of Shinra Style.
[Distant Slash]
Because I don't have a sword on me, I resorted to using a punch instead of a slash. However, what makes the Shinra Style so formidable is its versatility—it's not limited to just blades. The style is designed to enhance the power and precision of both fists and kicks as well. Each movement, whether a strike or a kick, is infused with the same strength and technique that would be applied with a sword.You can also control how much mana is infused in each attack, making it one of the most versatile and powerful styles in the game.
This adaptability allows me to leverage the principles of Shinra Style even without my weapon. The impact of my punch was just as forceful, guided by the same disciplined techniques that make the style so renowned. It's a testament to the style's effectiveness that it can translate its power seamlessly from swordplay to hand-to-hand combat.
"Urk"
Ronan took the brunt of my attack and crashed to the ground, his body crumpling under the force. But I wasn't finished yet. I continued to deliver a relentless barrage of punches, my fists connecting with his face in rapid succession. Each strike was driven by the frustration that had been building up inside me.
The sound of my fists meeting his flesh echoed through the otherwise tense silence of the room. Students in the cafeteria looked on with shock etched on their faces as I relentlessly pummeled Ronan, beating him into a pulp. Just as I was about to deliver another blow, a firm hand grabbed my shoulder and yanked me back. It was Professor Verron, his expression a mix of stern disapproval and concern.
"Enough!"
He commanded, his voice cutting through the commotion. His authoritative presence instantly halted my aggression, and I found myself reluctantly pulling away from Ronan, who lay sprawled on the floor, dazed and battered. The professor's intervention arrived just in time to prevent the situation from escalating further. As I walked away, I blacked out once again.