Scene: Debrief in Class – Gates and Dungeons
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – DAY
Candice, standing at the front of the classroom, gestures to a large display illustrating swirling portals surrounded by monstrous creatures. Her voice resonates with both gravity and intrigue as she begins her lecture.
Candice:"One hundred and twenty-seven years ago, gates began appearing all over the world, and from these gates, monsters poured out, threatening all life. Humanity, bound by a capitalistic society, wasn't willing to bear the cost alone, so they sought aid from other humanoid races—Elves, Dwarves, Werebeasts, and Vampires—to combat these threats. And that, class, is why many of us enjoy human rights today and can study here, alongside humans, in St. Alaric Academy."
She pauses, letting the weight of her words settle.
Candice: "Beyond each gate lies a dungeon. To close it, you must journey to the heart of the dungeon and destroy the Dungeon Stone—a massive crystal-like core, the source of the dungeon's power. Destroy it, and you'll be transported back out, with the dungeon collapsing behind you."
Jaxon raises his hand, leaning forward with curiosity.
Jaxon Varro: "Miss Candice, what about the dungeons under guild protection? The ones they won't let people enter?"
Candice: "There are two main reasons. Either the dungeon is small enough to be used for training purposes, or it's so large and dangerous that it can't be cleared. In those cases, the guilds keep it under guard until we find a way to deal with it."
Briona's hand shoots up, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension.
Briona Silversun: "So… how many monsters are we fighting there?"
Candice (with a faint smile): "'Looking at,' not 'fighting.' Remember, sometimes avoiding conflict is the best option. But if you want a rough number… let's say you'll see a couple thousand, depending on the size of the dungeon."
In a corner of the classroom, Fenix stretches dramatically, his voice dripping with sarcastic disdain.
Fenix: "Aah~ The dark whimsy of humankind, pushing us to do such dreadful jobs."
Hugo glances at him, furrowing his brow.
Hugo: "That's… the dark side of humanity, huh?"
Shizuka (nodding, a bit wistful): "Humans aren't saints, Hugo. Even I, a half-elf, can feel it—the sorrow of the trees they cut to build their fancy roads, ignoring what was already there."
Fenix (sighing theatrically): "The Sea Witch speaks the truth, Cyclops. We're here because we're 'integrated,' but if we want our place, we'll have to change their society. Last time we tried building our own, humans swooped in, waging war."
Hugo raises an eyebrow, doubtful.
Hugo: "Uh… didn't they do that because you vampires drank their blood?"
Fenix grins, tilting his head as he leans back in his chair.
Fenix: "A necessary role! Without us to regulate them, they overpopulate, wreaking havoc on ecosystems. And look at them now… they're doing it without us."
Candice (interrupting, with a knowing smile): "Fenix, care to share this philosophy with the rest of the class?"
Caught off guard, Fenix blinks, then quickly recovers his theatrical demeanor.
Fenix (flourishing his hand in mock pride): "Oh~ Yes, Miss Candice! I only wanted to share with my dear classmates the ancient arts of our clans!"
Scene: Debrief in Class – A Football Match
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH – SPORTS FIELD – MORNING
The field is buzzing with energy as students line up for the morning's football match. Two teams take their positions, but it quickly becomes clear that one player is dominating the game: Alexei. His movements are swift and calculated, his focus unshakable. Each time the ball is passed to him, he maneuvers around opponents with an effortless agility, his passes precise, and his shots powerful.
A whistle sounds as Alexei dribbles past three defenders, his teammates spreading wide to create space. With a sudden burst of speed, he dashes forward, expertly controlling the ball with lightning-quick footwork. He feints left, then right, leaving the goalie off-balance. In one fluid motion, he kicks the ball with pinpoint accuracy, sending it soaring into the top corner of the net.
Mr. Sato (clapping his hands, calling out): "Now that's how you play! Excellent work, Gentoshi!"
The other students gawk, some chuckling and shaking their heads in disbelief.
Ren: "Dude, are you sure you're not hiding some tech under that jersey? You're playing like a pro!"
The match carries on with Alexei leading his team, setting up his teammates with perfect passes and occasionally scoring himself. By the end, his team has triumphed with an impressive lead, and Alexei, barely winded, grins as the final whistle blows.
As the players disperse, Floria makes her way over to Alexei with a gentle smile. She hands him a bottle of cold water, the condensation beading on the outside.
Floria (teasingly): "Carrying the team on your back, huh? Here, drink up. You've earned it."
Alexei takes the bottle gratefully, uncapping it and drinking deeply, wiping his mouth with a satisfied grin.
Alexei: "So good."
Leontius and Drakos, watching as Alexei scores yet another goal, jog over to him, panting and grinning with admiration.
Leontius Hale (catching his breath): "Alexei, you're like a machine out here! How are you this good… without tech?!"
Drakos Windsor (nodding): "Seriously, man. I thought only Academic Branch students could play like that."
Alexei just shrugs with a casual smile, brushing off the attention.
Alexei: "It's all about skill, boys. Technique and training. Remember the martial arts my sister used against Drole? That's what I've been practicing too."
Both Leontius and Drakos exchange looks of awe.
Drakos (eagerly): "Wait, you mean that technique she used to, you know… destroy him without even leaving a scratch? You know that?!"
Leontius (leaning in): "Man, you have to teach us! Imagine if we could do that too!"
Alexei chuckles, pulling out his phone. With a few swipes, he sends each of them a digital file.
Alexei (smirking): "Alright, but fair warning—it's not as easy as it looks. The first step is to understand the science of the human body. This," he holds up his phone, "is a 1000+ page PDF file that's your starting point. It's all about anatomy, muscle groups, nerve connections… That's just the basics."
Leontius and Drakos glance down at their phones, scrolling through the massive document. Their excitement quickly turns to dismay.
Drakos: "A thousand… pages? Alexei, that's… I mean, that's basically a textbook!"
Leontius (laughing nervously): "Yeah, maybe we'll just stick to what we know. The regular way of playing sounds good."
Floria, standing nearby with an amused smile, shakes her head as Alexei laughs.
Floria (teasing): "Guess the master's teachings aren't for everyone, huh?"
Alexei (grinning): "Guess not. But hey, the offer stands if you guys ever get through."
Scene: Weapons and New Beginnings
INT. GGG CORPORATION – MAIN OFFICE – AFTERNOON
Andrea steps into the grand main office of GGG Corporation, Shizuka, Fenix, and Hugo trailing behind him. The space is sleek and pristine, with a bustling energy that reflects the importance of the company's operations. High ceilings, glass partitions, and displays of high-tech weapons line the walls, giving the place an aura of power and precision.
Lysander stands at the center, watching as they approach, and as Andrea steps forward, he nods approvingly.
Lysander (smiling, pleased): "I'm glad you came around, Andrea. It's good to have you back in the family business, even if you didn't exactly choose it voluntarily."
Andrea (with a hint of a smirk): "Didn't really leave me much of a choice, did you?"
Lysander chuckles, clearly satisfied. He waves over a well-dressed representative from the HR department, who steps forward with a clipboard.
Lysander (chuckleing): "Alright, let's get the paperwork squared away first. This is Helen from HR; she'll help you get settled with the formalities. After that, you can explore the corporate benefits, resources, and whatever else you need. Welcome back, Andrea."
Helen nods with a polite smile, gesturing for Andrea to follow her.
Helen (professional, warm): "Nice to meet you, Mr. Bluerose. We'll just go through a few details, and soon, you'll be all set."
As Andrea walks off with Helen, Lysander turns his attention back to Shizuka, Fenix, and Hugo, a slight grin on his face.
Lysander (calm): "And now for you three—since the deal is done, you can choose your weapon. Consider it a little thank you for helping us out. Go on, pick something that suits you."
The trio's faces light up with excitement as they exchange looks and head toward the display of gleaming weapons laid out for them. Each weapon has a unique design and aura, showcasing the craftsmanship and power behind GGG's creations.
Shizuka's gaze falls on a slender katana with blue and silver etchings running down the blade, resonating with her water abilities. Fenix is drawn to an obsidian-hilted dagger that almost seems to pulse with dark energy, while Hugo's eyes widen as he stops in front of a heavy, broad sword that shimmers with faint, dark runes.
Hugo (eyes wide, almost in disbelief): "We really get to keep these?"
Lysander nods, leaning back casually as he watches them marvel over their choices.
Lysander: "Like I said, consider it a gift… or maybe an investment. Of course, you still have to take some pictures with me and some employees here to help our PR campaign but… small price to pay, no?"
Shizuka runs her fingers along the blade of her chosen katana, the cool metal seeming to hum beneath her touch.
Shizuka (smiling): "Thank you, Lysander. This… this is incredible."
Fenix, testing the balance of his dagger, gives Lysander a playful grin.
Fenix (grinning): "Oh, King's Advisor, you really do know how to make an impression, don't you? I might actually remember this as a 'devil's deal' worth taking."
Lysander flinched upon hearing the word 'devil' but he is still smiling coldly
Lysander (calm): "A devil, you say? That's rich, coming from someone who dragged a demonic bastard to bargain with a 'normal' human like me."
The mood in the sleek GGG office shifts slightly as Lysander's words land, his cold smile unwavering as he studies their reactions. Fenix's grin fades, and Hugo's expression turns somber, his shoulders sinking slightly as Lysander's remark cuts deeper than intended. Shizuka glances at Hugo, worry flitting across her face, and she places a gentle hand on his shoulder in silent support.
Fenix (regaining composure, grinning): "Human? Maybe. Normal? Never. In the first place, the word 'normal' is just a thing you humans invented to create a set of rules for you to obey. To us here, that set of rules is ridiculous. How can going to space and mining the Earth's core to expand your resources to fight other races be considered normal?"
Lysander regards him steadily, the tension between them thick. After a beat, his expression softens just enough, and he sighs as if letting go of something heavy.
Lysander (more composed): "Hugo, Fenix—whatever my personal issues may be, they don't change the fact that you earned this. You helped close the deal, and you'll get the same respect and rewards as anyone else."
He nods toward Hugo's chosen weapon, a broad sword that shimmers with a faint, dark aura. He glances back at Hugo.
Lysander (concerned): "Are you sure, you're choosing this sword?"
Upon hearing Lysander's question, Hugo quickly became shaken.
Hugo (shaking): "Uh… big brother… what's wrong with it?"
But meeting with his scaredy eyes, Lysander answers with his normal business smile.
Lysander (smiling) "Nothing, really. I just don't think the delicate magic circuits of this sword could meet with the demand of your… chaotic burning flame."
Hugo (shaking): "Oh… I…"
Lysander glance back at Shizuka, not waiting for Hugo to answer
Lysander "I have seen all of your files. Well, I need to do some research in case we need to fight you in the match. Shizuka Maidono, specialist in water control but low mana pool. Thus, relying on rogue build. For you, I recommended this wakizashi over here?"
Lysander pointed at a short katana, a wakizashi that was decorated by blue and black strings.
Shizuka (eyes shining): "It's beautiful…"
Lysander "It's called Yoishigure or Evening Shower. B-ranked weapon. Though it does not increase the power of your mana controlling capability, I personally do not think it is necessary since you are already excellent at controlling mana. Instead, this beauty reduces the use of mana and increases the strength of your technique. It's perfect for rogue build that prefers short fights with complicated techniques... like you."
Shizuka, touched, picks up the wakizashi with a grateful smile.
Shizuka (surprised) "That... thank you...I'll take care of it."
Lysander (smiling) "Tell us anytime if you have problems with our products."
Lysander nods, then turns his attention back to Fenix, a glint of humor in his eye.
Lysander (smirking) "Now, you two. First, the vampire... After seeing how you fight in the Eagle Step, you are more interested in using blood magic than vampiric strength, I assume? Your performance was quite awful considering all your job is to run and hide."
Fenix is a bit angry that he got reminded of the fight against Wilhelm again.
Fenix (A bit angry) "Hey, I risked my life to stall him and that was your plan, Mr. King's Advisor."
Lysander (smirk) "True... it was my plan... But if I replace you with any other vampire or just some good tank… Heck, even Ludociel could do it, they would just function the same. You are not special, Fenix."
Fenix flinched. Surprised by the bluntness of Lysander's words.
Lysander's smirk widens as he steps over to a display case housing an amulet with a blood-red ruby at its center. The ruby glows faintly, as if alive with power, radiating a subtle pulse.
Lysander (smiling) "That's why, I advised you to have this.This amulet is called the Crimson Lord. It's our latest work, designed to appeal to the vampire markets. Not only does it amplify blood magic, but it has a unique feature—an auto-drain property that transfers blood from your target directly to you whenever they get hit from your blood magic. Perfect for sustaining your magic without sacrificing stamina and perfect for blood mages like yourself."
Fenix raises an eyebrow, visibly intrigued, though he quickly covers it with his usual bravado.
Fenix (smirking): "Quite a gift. But what if I decide to go all out with vampiric strength instead? Not every vampire leans on blood magic, you know."
Lysander (mocking amusement): "Ah, our 'blood mage' imagines himself in a physical fight? My dear Fenix, based on your… striking performance in the Eagle Step, it's safe to say this is the right path for you."
Fenix lets out a small, conceding chuckle.
Fenix: "Alright, fair enough. If it's the path of finesse, then finesse it is."
Finally, Lysander's gaze lands on Hugo, who's been quietly absorbing everything. Lysander's usual air of superiority seems tempered, his expression neutral as he regards his younger brother.
Lysander (tilting his head, inspecting the sword Hugo chose): "Now, are you sure about that choice, bastard? Given the volatility of your flames, this blade's delicate circuits might not handle the strain."
Hugo glances between Lysander and the blade, his confidence visibly wavering.
Hugo (tentatively): "Oh… uh… I didn't realize… Is there another one you'd recommend?"
Lysander nods and gestures to a nearby rack, where an obsidian-hilted sword with reinforced circuitry and dark engravings rests.
Lysander: "This one here, Umbra's Edge, might suit you better. Its circuits are built to handle high-intensity power without losing structural integrity. A more reliable companion, considering… your unique abilities."
Hugo (nodding, relaxing a bit): "Thank you. I… didn't want to mess this up."
Lysander's expression softens just slightly as he observes Hugo's relief, though he quickly regains his usual composed demeanor.
Lysander: "Consider it a gift of foresight, then."
As the three finalize their choices, a quiet satisfaction settles over them. Lysander gestures for them to follow him to a setup prepared for their publicity photoshoot, where the employees await them with a backdrop and lights.
Lysander (smiling, businesslike): "Let's get the photos done. Just think of it as the finishing touch on our little deal."
With weapons in hand, Shizuka, Fenix, and Hugo exchange a look, their new gear gleaming under the studio lights as they step forward, ready to present themselves as the faces of a new chapter in GGG's weapon legacy.
Scene: Weapon Testing and Power Showcase
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER TRAINING GROUNDS – AFTERNOON
The training grounds are alive with energy as Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix prepare to test their new weapons. The area around them is marked with scorch marks, frozen patches, and tiny craters—remnants of their intense training.
Fenix twirls his new amulet, the Crimson Lord, and grins, his fingers pulsing with a faint red glow. He extends his hand toward Hugo, summoning a small, sharp blood needle that shoots forward, barely grazing Hugo's arm.
Hugo (startled, rubbing his arm): "Ouch! Seriously, Fenix?"
Fenix (mock innocence): "What? I'm just testing my new toy. Now, I can absorb blood without even biting—how fantastic is that?"
Hugo (a bit irritated): "Great for you. Just… not on me, okay?"
Fenix (teasing, smirking): "Aww, our little Cyclops is mad. Cute!"
Just then, a gust of freezing air cuts through the group, filled with swirling water and ice. Shizuka stands at a distance, wielding Yoishigure as she channels her mana, forming an intricate pattern of ice blades hovering around her.
Hugo (shivering slightly): "Cold… and sharp."
Shizuka (satisfied, admiring her work): "It's incredible. This sword didn't change my control, but I can summon more attacks without feeling drained. I've never managed to create so many at once before."
Hugo (examining the swords in awe): "These ice blades… they look so precise."
Fenix (curious): "So, Sea Witch, did you pick that trick up from the King's advisor?"
Shizuka (nodding): "Yeah! As much as I despise him for casting Hugo out of his own family, Lysander has serious talent. To beat Ludociel with strategy alone—he's earned his reputation."
Fenix (nodding with respect): "A real strategist, that one. It's why he's the advisor to his majesty."
She turns to Hugo, who is quietly inspecting his own weapon, the Umbra's Edge.
Shizuka (curious): "What about you, Hugo? How's your sword?"
Hugo (hesitant): "Well…"
He grips Umbra's Edge tightly, channeling his mana, and suddenly, a massive beam of fire shoots up into the sky. The fiery column blazes high, casting an intense glow over the training grounds before he quickly cuts it off, looking a bit alarmed by the power he unleashed.
Fenix (astonished): "Cyclops! That's… even stronger than the flames you used during the Eagle Step!"
Hugo (nodding, still processing the weapon's potential): "Yeah. The sword amplifies my power to insane levels, and it holds up to the strain too. But now, I need to work even harder on control. At first, I chose weapons that help me restrain my flames, but Lysander insisted on this."
Shizuka (thoughtful): "He must have had a reason, Hugo. Maybe he believes you'll grow stronger by learning to harness it."
Fenix (grinning): "Or he played you. Hard to tell with him."
The three share a laugh, feeling both the weight of their new weapons and the promise of future challenges. Despite their mixed feelings about Lysander's intentions, they can't deny the power now at their fingertips.
Scene: An Unexpected Visitor
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER TRAINING GROUNDS – AFTERNOON
Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix are practicing with their new weapons on the academy training grounds, where faint scorch marks and traces of ice and blood magic linger in the air around them. The trio's attention shifts as a girl with dark braided hair and dressed in elegant, luxurious attire approaches, her movements graceful yet slightly hesitant.
Nadia (approaching, smiling shyly): "Oh, Hugo? You're here?"
Hugo (startled, turning around): "Nadia? What are you doing in the Superpower Branch?"
Shizuka and Fenix exchange a curious look.
Shizuka (curious): "A friend of yours?"
Hugo (nodding, a bit sheepish): "Kind of… Nadia Grave is a classmate from my time in the Academic Branch. She's… one of the few who didn't hate me for… well…"
Fenix (smirking, interjecting): "For being a one-eyed demon?"
Hugo (sighing, but with a small smile): "Yeah… that."
Fenix (extending his hand with a dramatic bow): "Ah, a noble lady from the Academic Branch, I presume? A splendid afternoon to you, young lady. Pray tell, what brings you to our side of the academy?"
Shizuka chuckles softly as Nadia smiles shyly, her eyes darting toward Hugo, then to Shizuka.
Nadia (breathing in deeply, glancing at Hugo): "So… he's always like this?"
Hugo and Shizuka (in unison, sharing a knowing smile): "Always."
Fenix gives a playful shrug as Nadia chuckles, her initial shyness easing into a relaxed smile.
Nadia (collecting herself): "Anyway, I was hoping you could help me, Hugo. I'm completely lost. This branch is… a lot bigger than I expected."
Hugo (smiling warmly): "Of course. Where do you need to go?"
Nadia (slightly embarrassed): "I need to get to the teacher's office in the Superpower Branch."
The three exchange glances, then nod, walking beside her as they lead her through the corridors.
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH HALLWAY – MOMENTS LATER
As they walk together, the conversation flows easily. Fenix walks beside Nadia, studying her curiously, while Shizuka and Hugo fall into step nearby.
Shizuka (glancing over): "So, why do you need to go to the teacher's office, Nadia?"
Nadia (smiling slightly): "It's… nothing urgent, really. After Ludociel's defeat by Lysander, some of the big guilds were surprised by the strength the GGG has built. They want to give hunter trainees here a better grasp of real-world applications."
Hugo (wide-eyed): "So, the guilds pushed for more practical experience for students? That's why hunters like Miss Candice are here?"
Nadia (nodding): "Exactly. There's a lot more emphasis on practical knowledge and real encounters with hunters, monsters, and artifacts. Since my family owns the museum of dungeon relics, they are planning to start a tour for practical study with my family's museum as the first stop."
Fenix (impressed, but with a hint of sarcasm): "Ah, the whole world shakes at the hands of a 'nerd.' Who knew that would be the tipping point?"
Hugo (instantly defensive): "Hey! Don't call my brother a nerd!"
Fenix and Shizuka exchange a surprised look. Fenix raises an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued by Hugo's sudden protectiveness.
Fenix (feigning innocence): "Oh, right. My apologies, dear Cyclops."
As the tension lifts, Fenix's thoughts linger on Hugo's reaction.
Fenix (thinking, puzzled): "Hugo, defending Lysander? The same brother who cast him out and treats him like a stranger? Huh. This… loyalty runs deeper than I thought."
The four continue down the hall, and Hugo, trying to shake off Fenix's prying look, quickly changes the subject.
Hugo (cheerfully): "So… how's Alexei doing lately?"
Nadia (rolling her eyes): "Oh, as you'd expect. Still the prince of the class, as arrogant as ever. Probably even more after the match. This morning, he practically beat up half of our class in a football game."
Hugo (smiling softly): "Glad he's doing well."
Nadia shrugs, a knowing smile on her face.
Nadia: "Oh, he's doing more than well. His relationship with Floria's… deepened. The two are inseparable, like a newly married couple, and they don't even try to hide it."
Fenix (raising an eyebrow, intrigued): "Alexei's girlfriend? And who's this lucky maiden?"
Nadia (grinning): "An orphan girl, actually. Alexei and Floria are like a Cinderella story, and she's our Cinderella. The class loves it."
Fenix (laughing): "Ah, such a fairy tale romance!"
Shizuka (surprised): "Wait, I thought only the rich and privileged study in your branch?"
Hugo (nodding): "Floria's a bit of an exception. She's a brilliant student—one of the best."
Nadia (smiling): "Exactly. She earned her place through scholarships… Or at least, she had them."
Shizuka (confused): "What do you mean?"
Nadia: "About three months ago, after Hugo transferred here, Floria was adopted into the Gentoshi family. So I guess she's officially 'rich' now, too."
Fenix (smirking): "Ah, our Cinderella finally became a princess."
Hugo's smile fades, and a shadow crosses his face.
Hugo (thinking sadly): "So… they've replaced me with her…"
They come to a stop as they reach the teacher's office.
Nadia (with a small wave): "Well, would you look at that—we're here. Thanks for the help, guys."
Fenix (bowing playfully): "Always a pleasure, young lady."
Shizuka (smiling): "See you around, Nadia!"
Nadia gives them a warm smile before disappearing into the office. The three friends watch her go, then turn and walk back toward the training grounds, a quietness settling over them.
Scene: Debrief in Class – Slime Battle
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER TRAINING GROUND – MORNING
The class enters the training ground, where a line of slimes wriggle in containment spheres, their semi-fluid bodies shimmering under the lights. Candice steps forward, her usual stern demeanor in place.
Candice (gesturing to the slimes): "Alright, everyone, it's practice time. Each of you will use your own approach to handle these slimes. Remember what you've learned—choose your attacks wisely. These creatures may be weak, but in a dungeon, your resources are precious. Let's start with Shizuka, our top student."
Shizuka steps up confidently, her hand resting on the hilt of her Yoishigure. With practiced precision, she draws the wakizashi and channels her mana, summoning an icy wave that freezes the slime instantly. She smiles in satisfaction.
Candice (nodding approvingly): "Great job, Shizuka. As expected of the strongest first-year. But consider this—while freezing is effective, it does consume mana. In a dungeon, conserving your energy is crucial. Try to use smaller bursts when facing lower-ranked creatures."
Shizuka nods thoughtfully, taking the advice in stride. Hugo steps up next, summoning a small flicker of black flame that consumes the slime instantly.
Candice (raising an eyebrow): "Black flame… Gentoshi lineage?"
Hugo (hesitating, voice low): "No, Miss… I was exiled."
An uncomfortable silence falls, broken when Fenix steps forward protectively.
Fenix (with a slight bow): "Miss Candice, it's not exactly polite to pry into personal matters."
Candice raises an eyebrow, slightly irked, but composes herself.
Candice (curtly): "Fine, then let's see how you handle it, Fenix. But remember, blood magic and vampiric strength aren't effective against slimes."
Fenix (grinning): "Of course, Miss. That's why I'll use sacrificial magic!"
With a theatrical flourish, he lets a single drop of his blood fall to the ground, summoning a small, fiery magic circle that bursts into flames. A fireball launches from the circle, hitting the slime and incinerating it. Fenix strikes a triumphant pose.
Fenix: "The sacred arts of my clan are invincible!"
Candice sighs, her expression one of frustrated amazement as she watches him, though she's clearly impressed by his creative use of magic.
Candice (grumbling): "A bit dramatic… but effective. Moving on!"
Other students take their turns. Kenjiro summons a blazing fireball that sears through the slime effortlessly, while Severin's focused energy beams slice through another slime. Each displays their power, some handling the task easily, while others, like Alyssa with her shield and spear, and Elena with her gusts of wind, struggle to land effective attacks.
Candice (addressing the class): "As you can see, some creatures are resilient against certain types of skills and weaker against others. That's why dungeons require teamwork. A solo hunter can be strong, but in a dungeon, a well-formed party is invaluable. Choose teammates who can balance out your weaknesses and support your strengths."
The students exchange glances, a new understanding of their abilities dawning on them as they begin to consider potential allies among their classmates.
Scene: Debrief in Class – Second Years' Mid-Term Format
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH SECOND-YEAR CLASSROOM – MORNING
The classroom feels tense as usual, with students sitting upright, each wary of catching their King's attention. Yue Monarchy Gentoshi, the King himself, sits by the window, one hand resting casually on his desk as he gazes outside, seeming unfazed by the brewing tension. Ludociel, the Queen, sits with her usual poise, yet even she casts a cautious glance at the door. Kimhyun, the Jack, leans back, an eyebrow raised with a mix of anticipation and unease.
With the creak of the door, Professor Roderick enters. He's an older man with a long white beard and hands adorned with golden rings, each set with powerful gemstones that glint under the fluorescent lights. His calm presence radiates authority, and as he steps to the front, the murmuring quiets. Professor Roderick is one of the few teachers strong enough to command respect from the royals.
Professor Roderick: "I'm sure you've heard by now… things are changing. The Academic Branch students are growing stronger by the day, relying on wit, strategy, and advanced weaponry rather than superpowers or magic alone. So, we've decided to step things up. Your midterm exam…"
He lets the words hang, eyes glinting with challenge.
Professor Roderick: "… will be a battle. Between you, the students… and us, your teachers."
The class gasps, a collective intake of breath as the realization settles in. Murmurs ripple through the room, students exchanging wide-eyed glances and hushed whispers. Even Ludociel and Kimhyun look startled. But Yue simply smiles, casting his gaze out the window with a small, arrogant grin.
Professor Roderick (raising a hand to calm the room): "Now, now, don't panic. We won't be fighting at full strength. Each teacher will wear seals to limit our powers, giving you a fighting chance. And you'll be allowed to team up. It'll be a 2-on-1 format. Two students against one teacher."
Yue, without turning his head, raises his hand casually.
Yue (coolly): "Professor, excuse me, but… do we even need a teammate?"
The class falls silent, heads turning to Yue with a mixture of awe and exasperation.
In whispered admiration, students murmur:
Student #1: "The King is like that again."
Student #2: "He didn't mean we need a teammate… he meant he doesn't need one."
Student #3: "As if anyone else could take on the teachers alone…"
Professor Roderick raises an eyebrow, locking eyes with Yue.
Yue (coolly): "I mean, you teachers are going to seal yourself from using all your power, right? I think that is more than enough of a restriction."
Professor Roderick: "Confident, are we, Yue? I admire that… but power isn't everything."
Without warning, Professor Roderick vanishes, his voice echoing throughout the room as students look around in astonishment.
Ludociel (surprised, whispering): "Professor Roderick is using his power here?"
Professor Roderick (voice echoing): "In dungeons—or in life, for that matter—there are situations that require a range of strengths and skills. The strongest individual can't do it all alone…"
Suddenly, Professor Roderick materializes behind Yue, who raises an eyebrow in amusement as the teacher smirks. A crackling beam of electricity flashes from Professor Roderick's hand, aimed at Yue's back. But before it can make contact, the beam disperses, glancing harmlessly away from Yue, as if deflected by an invisible shield.
Professor Roderick (eyes narrowing): "A barrier?"
Yue turns, his grin widening as he adjusts his posture, seemingly unfazed.
Yue (smiling): "Telekinesis. And point taken, Professor. But I'm curious… am I allowed to team up with someone from the Academic Branch?"
More murmuring from the class. Yue had never expressed interest in teaming up with anyone from his own branch, let alone his class. The mere suggestion has some of the students exchanging bewildered glances, and even Ludociel shoots him a surprised, disapproving look.
Professor Roderick (thoughtful, then nodding): "If they're willing, yes. The Academic Branch proved themselves in the match, after all. I'll speak with their teachers—perhaps they'll grant extra credit to those who participate."
Yue (smiling wider): "Thank you, Professor. I'm sure they'll be interested."
The class buzzes with whispers, wondering who the King would choose to fight alongside but to many, the answer is clear already, who else but Lysander and Angela, members of his court who brought victory to their branch in the match. Professor Roderick's gaze sweeps over the room, his expression softening just slightly.
Professor Roderick: "Remember, students… power alone may be thrilling, but true strength lies in collaboration. You'll do well to keep that in mind as you prepare."
With a flick of his hand, Professor Roderick dispels the tension in the air, walking calmly to the front of the room and dismissing the class, leaving them with a challenge that lingers in their minds.