As the bell rang, Professor Rebecca entered the room, her mere presence as commanding as a tempest. She moved with a natural grace and an air of dignity, every step purposeful. Her violet locks cascaded over her shoulders, shimmering faintly as though they carried a fragment of the cosmos itself. Her eyes, the same vibrant hue, seemed to hold galaxies within them, captivating and unyielding.
The effect was immediate. The chatter, the murmurs, the whispered conversations—all of it ceased in an instant. It wasn't fear that silenced the room, but a collective acknowledgment of her authority. Her presence alone demanded respect, a quiet declaration that she tolerated no less than absolute attention.
She approached the podium, her gaze sweeping over the class, sharp yet calm. The faint sound of her heels clicking against the floor seemed to echo, punctuating the heavy silence. Whatever casual atmosphere had existed before her arrival evaporated, leaving only an air of anticipation as everyone sat up straighter, ready for her words.
"Welcome, cadets," Professor Rebecca began, her voice calm yet authoritative, cutting through the silence like a blade. "I believe we can dispense with introductions a second time. So, let's get straight to the point."
Her gaze swept across the room, each student couldn't help but get nervous under her watchful eyes. "As you already know, after the combat duels, you will be required to select your electives. These courses will shape your future specialization, so choose i advice you to choose wisely."
With a subtle wave of her hand, the air around her shimmered faintly. From her desk, a stack of papers lifted effortlessly, hovering in the air as if guided by invisible strings of mana.
The sheets floated gracefully across the room, each one settling gently onto the desks before the students. It was a simple yet precise display of mana manipulation, a testament to her mastery.
There was no flourish, no unnecessary theatrics—just raw control and skill. The kind that silently reminded everyone why she stood at the front of the room.
Electives are specialized courses or subjects that students can choose based on their interests, skills, and future goals.
There are five electives which are mandatory, for all students to choose. The five main subjects offer flexibility and allow students to tailor their education to suit their individual aspirations.
For instance:
A student aiming to become a battle mage might choose Elemental Manipulation and Mana Control.
An aspiring healer would lean toward Healing and Restoration Arts.
Someone with ambitions of leading could focus on Tactical Strategy and Warfare.
Ultimately, electives allow each student to forge their own path, preparing them for their chosen role in the world beyond the academy.
The five mandatory subjects are -
1. Mana Manipulation and Aura
Precision in manipulating mana and aura for various purposes like casting spells, enhancing physical abilities, creating barrier and more, strengthing the weapons and much more.
2. Close Combat
A focus on refining physical combat skills, including advanced swordsmanship, martial arts, and weapon mastery. Ideal for those aiming to become front-line fighters.
3. Tactical Strategies and Warfare
Training in battlefield tactics, strategy formulation, and leadership skills. Designed for those with ambitions of commanding squads or leading armies.
4. Elemental Manipulation
Mastery over specific elemental magics such as fire, water, earth, air, and more advanced combinations. For those seeking to specialize in offensive or defensive magic.
5. Dungeon and Monster Study
Identifying and categorizing monsters based on species, subspecies, and evolutionary traits. This helps in understanding their abilities, strengths, and weaknes. Same for dungeons and labyrinths.
"Damn, that's what you expect from the best academy," I muttered to myself as I scanned the list of subjects. Ten subjects in total, and we could choose five to specialize in. The options were vast, catering to all kinds of abilities, interests, and talents. The best part was that these electives weren't just for anyone; they were designed to shape the future of each student.
As I examined the choices on the paper, it was easy for me to decide. After all, I already knew which subjects the others would choose. It wasn't hard to predict—main characters are always trouble magnets. And let's face it, they would need some help until they were strong enough to awaken their abilities or defend themselves.
I glanced over at Leon, who would likely opt for Weapon Mastery to complement his combat skills, and Aria, who was going for advanced spell casting. As for the others, I could easily guess their preferences.
There were multiple different choices for the cadets to choose suiting to their abilities and talents.
1. Healing and Restoration Arts
Specialization in healing magic, potions, and restoration techniques. Perfect for those who wish to support others on the battlefield or become master healers.
2. Beast Taming
Learn the arts of taming magical creatures and summoning familiars. Recommended for those who wish to command powerful beasts or spirit allies in combat.
3. Illusions and Mental Magic
A study in the subtle arts of deception, mind control, and illusion casting. For those with a talent for manipulating reality and influencing others.
4. Alchemy and Potion Crafting
The art of blending magical ingredients to create potions, elixirs, and transmutations. Perfect for those who prefer the blend of science and magic.
5. Stealth
Training in the art of moving unseen, infiltration, and precision strikes. Best suited for those who thrive in the shadows and prefer silent takedowns.
6. Political and Diplomatic Studies
A focus on diplomacy, negotiation, and the intricate web of alliances and power dynamics between races and factions. Essential for those seeking leadership roles off the battlefield.
7. Weapon Mastery....
' Yes yes, I know what you're all thinking, but just wait. Even I know I'm weak."
My choices were for electives were already made, and I was confident in them. The subjects I picked weren't just because they seemed interesting, but because each one had its purpose.
Alchemy and Potion Crafting — I had read about that genius alchemist, the one who could brew potions with effects that seemed to defy the laws of nature. Having someone like her on my side could be invaluable. Potions weren't just for healing; they could give me the edge in ways people wouldn't expect.
Stealth — There was a reason why some of the most dangerous individuals in the world were never seen until it was too late. Stealth would be critical for my future plans. Sneaking around, gathering intel, or escaping from a tough situation could all be made easier with this skill.
Beast Taming — I couldn't forget about the egg. Whatever creature was inside, I had a feeling it would be useful. Beast taming could turn that potential into something formidable.Who knows maybe it would be an ally for whatever challenges lay ahead in future.
Advanced Spell Casting — Magic was power, and I was no fool. The more powerful spells I could cast, the better my chances of surviving in a world where anyone could be a threat. Mastering the fundamentals would be important, but knowing how to cast more complex and destructive spells was what would give me more options to consider.
Weapon Mastery — This one was simple. You couldn't be too careful when it came to fighting. Weaponry, especially in close combat, was something I needed to be proficient in. Whether it was swords, daggers, or something else entirely, it was better to be ready for any scenario. Plus, there's just something about holding a weapon and knowing you can use it effectively.
With these choices, I felt like I was setting the stage for everything that was to come. This wasn't just about surviving—this was about shaping my future and making sure I was prepared for the battles that lay ahead.
With a final glance at the list, I signed my name next to my choices, feeling the weight of the decision settle in. There was no turning back now. The journey ahead was mine to shape, and this was just the first step.
As the last of the students finished choosing their electives, the room fell into a brief silence. The papers containing our choices seemed to come alive, swirling through the air before they landed neatly on the desk beside Professor Rebecca.
She stood there for a moment, her gaze sweeping over the class, before her voice rang out, calm and authoritative. "Student Leon, as rank 1, you are the representative of the class."
Her words carried weight, emphasizing the importance of his rank. The room fell quiet as all eyes turned to Leon, who, despite the pressure, merely nodded in acknowledgment.
Leon, as always, was the model student—sharp, focused, and someone who had earned the title of Rank 1 without question. His calm demeanor, however, betrayed none of the typical arrogance that came with such a position, unlike someone else. Instead, he stood up with a quiet confidence, eyes briefly meeting Professor Rebecca's before he spoke.
"I understand, Professor. I'll do my best," he said, his voice steady.
It was clear that in this academy, being ranked number one came with more than just prestige—it came with expectations. I couldn't help but wonder how he'd handle the weight of representing our class. He was strong, but I knew that even the strongest had their limits.
Professor Rebecca nodded once, satisfied with his response. "Good. Now, as your class representative, you will be responsible for overseeing class activities and ensuring that the class stays on track with their progress. There will be challenges ahead, but I trust you'll be able to handle them."
As Leon returned to his seat, I couldn't help but think about the pressure he was now under. But for someone like Leon, this was just another hurdle to overcome. The real question was: how would the rest of us fare as the semester went on?
Thus, the day went on and another month passed by and now it was time for the main story to start.