Jarek, Edmond, and Larieth exchanged bewildered glances as Ashura's unexpected words hung in the air. They had never anticipated that he would say something so bold. Ashura, however, remained blissfully unaware of the stir he had caused, his head resting lazily on the table as he stared blankly at the surface, his mind clearly elsewhere.
The sound of footsteps echoed through the room, and the door swung open.
Tuck, tuck, tuck."
"What are you all doing? Return to your seats!" Professor Cedrick said as he strode into the classroom. His presence commanded immediate attention. The students quickly scrambled back to their places.
Professor Cedrick walked to the front desk and placed a heavy, thick book, resembling an old encyclopedia, with a thud. The sound resonated through the room as he turned to face the class. "I'm sure you all notice the classroom name already," he stated, his voice firm yet engaging. He picked up a piece of chalk and began writing on the magic board.
"In case you don't know, each year, the classrooms are given names that correspond to the abilities of the students within them. The first-ranking classroom is named Leclair, awarded to those who demonstrate extraordinary potential and unmatched talent," he explained, pausing for effect as he scanned the room, ensuring everyone was paying attention.
"The second-ranking classroom is Valmont," Professor Cedrick continued, "which consists of students of noble descent possessing strong innate abilities, although they are still in the process of developing their full potential." He adjusted his glasses, then added, "And then there's us—the third rank, known as Durand. Most students in this class are dependable and average, but you won't find exceptional talent here. Of course, some of you may surprise us, like Jarek and Ashura with their combat skills."
At this, Jarek shifted uncomfortably in his seat, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks, while Ashura remained blissfully oblivious, still resting his head on the table.
Professor Cedrick continued, "Last but not least is the fourth-ranking classroom, Rochefort. This class comprises students who may not be as gifted but possess the determination to work steadily through the academy's challenges, despite having limited aptitude for magic." He wrapped up, his tone softening as he concluded, "Every class has its strengths, and each of you has the potential to shine in your own way."
The room fell silent, the weight of the professor's words settling in. Each student contemplated their place and potential within the academy, while Ashura finally stirred, glancing around as if waking from a dream.
Professor Cedrick continued with a hint of a smile, "Of course, that doesn't mean this ranking will stay forever. If your class is not chosen as first rank, then you all just have to make it become the first rank!"
The room fell into a contemplative silence, but his remark somehow reignited the spark of determination in the students who had felt dejected moments before.
*That's right,* Ashura thought, his gaze drifting over his classmates. *Just because Durand is in third rank doesn't mean it will stay that way until the very end. It's unexpected, really; many students in this class actually possess quite a good amount of talent. The real question is whether they can realize it or not.* His eyes flicked back to Professor Cedrick, who was still animatedly explaining.
"Alright, that's enough about the classroom ranking topic," Professor Cedrick announced, shifting the focus. He picked up a large, thick book that lay waiting on his desk. "Next, we will begin with the Abyss Monster Encyclopedia." He opened the book with a flourish, the pages rustling like an eager crowd.
"First," he continued, his voice steady and purposeful, "as you know, abyss monsters have ranks of their own, ranging from the weakest at level 15 to the strongest at level 0." He then turned to the magic board, his chalk gliding smoothly as he wrote down the key points, ensuring everyone could follow along.
"In your current skills, you all probably can handle a Level 15 together," Professor Cedrick proclaimed, fixing his gaze on his students. His eyes lingered on Ashura, who appeared as apathetic as ever, slouching in his seat.
*Is this really the same guy who fought like madness on the battlefield?* Professor Cedrick wondered to himself, a hint of confusion crossing his face as he observed Ashura's nonchalant demeanor.
"The first test will involve fighting against an Abyss monster," he continued, his voice steady but serious. "But don't worry—the monster is just a prototype hologram. I suggest you decide which Level 15 Abyss monster you want to face. Your marks will be determined by how you fight, how quickly you can defeat it, and which type of monster you choose."
A murmur of disbelief rippled through the class. Students exchanged glances, eyes wide with a mixture of awe and apprehension. They never imagined their first test would involve battling Abyss monsters, except for Ashura. He feigned concern, but inside, he was already contemplating which creature he wanted to take on.
*I expect nothing less from an academy known for producing legendary names,* he thought to himself, a sly smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
Professor Cedrick continued, unaware of Ashura's internal monologue. "The test will take place in one week, so make sure you're prepared."
The class dragged on until evening, and Ashura exited with an air of exhaustion, as though he had just stepped out of a dreamless sleep.
"Ashura, do you want to check out the magic bookstore together? I heard they have a great discount right now," called out Edmond, slinging an arm around Ashura's shoulder, his eagerness palpable.
"Sorry, Edmond, but there's something I need to take care of, so I'll have to pass," Ashura replied, his voice low as he began to walk away, eager to escape Edmond's persistent gaze.
"Come on! Just a quick look?" Edmond pressed
"Sigh... alright, let us go take a quick look," Ashura said, surrendering to Edmond's persistent enthusiasm.
"Ooh, you want to check out the magical bookstore? In that case, I guess I'll join you all too," Jarek chimed in, playfully draping his elbow over Ashura's shoulder.
Edmond, witnessing this interaction, couldn't help but feel displeased. "Huh... why do we have to go with you? You're just a raccoon," he scoffed.
Jarek shrugged, unfazed. "It's better if we go together. I'm sure you know that many students in the classes above us would take the chance to bully us if we're alone."
Edmond struggled to refute this, realizing the truth in Jarek's words. *Yeah, many noble students who rank above us would certainly seize the chance to look down on those beneath them.*
### Third District in Capital: District of Merchant
The trio navigated through the bustling market, their initial intention of a quick look at magical tomes now drifting as they became captivated by the vibrant atmosphere.
"Do you really think we'll find anything interesting?" Ashura asked languidly, trailing behind as he leaned against a lamppost, his eyes half-closed. "I've seen all the magical books I need back at Hearthwood Haven."
"Come on, Ashura! This is the capital!" Edmond urged, a spark of excitement in his eyes. "There could be rare texts here that we can't find anywhere else. I heard a rumor that one of the stalls has a book that can teach you ancient spells!"
Jarek, ever practical, adjusted the strap of his satchel. "We should hurry, though. If we just wander around, we'll end up losing track of time and missing out. It's already late in the afternoon."
"As if I'd miss dinner because of a book," Ashura muttered, finally pushing off the lamppost and allowing himself to join the group. "But fine, let's at least take a look at this magical stall. Maybe I'll find something to interest me… or at least a comfortable spot to sit."
They turned a corner, and Edmond's eyes lit up as they spotted a stall adorned with glowing orbs and shimmering scrolls. The merchant, a wiry woman with a bright smile, was displaying a collection of magical books, each bound in colorful leather, intricate runes etched into their spines.
"Look!" Edmond exclaimed, practically bouncing on his heels. "Let's check this out!"
As they approached, Ashura feigned indifference, picking at a loose thread on his shirt. "Yes, let's admire the pretty books that we aren't going to buy."
Jarek rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress a grin. "You're such a pessimist, Ashura. Just look at that one!" He pointed to a book with a cover that seemed to shift colors. "The Secrets of Elemental Magic! Imagine what we could learn from something like that."
Edmond eagerly stepped forward, his fingers brushing over the spines of several books. "Excuse me, do you have any recommendations for students?" he asked the merchant.
"Ah, young mages in search of knowledge!" the woman smiled, her eyes sparkling. "This book here—The Enchanted Compendium—contains spells suitable for your level. And this one—A Beginner's Grimoire—holds foundational charms that every aspiring wizard should know."
Ashura leaned against the stall, a bored expression on his face. "Sure, they sound great, but what's the point? We'll just be stuck in our classrooms studying."
"Because knowing these spells gives us the tools to have those to be stronger," Jarek argued, crossing his arms. "Besides, who knows when you'll need to summon a flickering light or protect yourself with a charm?"
Edmond opened the Enchanted Compendium, flipping through the pages. "Look! This one outlines how to conjure a temporary shield—imagine how handy that could be during training sessions!"
"Yes, when we're running from the wrath of our professor, thanks to your quarrel with Jarek," Ashura teased, a hint of amusement finally shining in his eyes.
"Hey, I cannot help it you know" Edmond defended, closing the book. "But you're right, I should be careful in the future. How about we all chip in for one book? We can take turns learning the spells."
Ashura sighed dramatically but the corners of his mouth turned upward. "Alright, I suppose I can contribute to a book if it means I don't have to be the only one without knowledge. Just make sure it's something we can use."
With a renewed sense of purpose, they huddled closer together, leaving behind their earlier distractions and focusing on the potentially magical treasures before them. With that, Ashura couldn't help but feel a flicker of excitement stir deep within, buried beneath layers of indifference. Maybe this detour into the market would lead to something more after all.