Lion Kingdom
Scarlet Lions Province, White City
All the students of No. 9 Senior High School gathered on the athletic field, an electrifying atmosphere filled with excitement and curiosity. Today marked a pivotal moment in their lives: the day of career awakening. They were divided into three groups according to their student numbers, their hearts racing with anticipation.
Jimin Lightbringer stood still among the crowd, his attention fixed on the principal as he began to speak. "Dear students," the principal announced, "there is no reason to feel anxious. Our success rate for awakenings is an impressive 100%." A ripple of approval swept through the crowd. "Thanks to over a century of advancements, the chance of awakening a combat profession has significantly increased from 10% to 20%. I assure you, there is neither a high profession nor a low one. Whether you awaken a support role or a life profession, each path offers limitless possibilities! Can we truly classify any profession as noble or humble?"
Jimin couldn't help but roll his eyes at the principal's remarks. It felt as if he were trying too hard to reassure the crowd. The reality was that the demand for combat professions loomed exceedingly large; they were crucial on the frontlines and essential for maintaining order within urban areas.
However, the importance of strong support classes was equally vital. Navigating secret realms, tackling dungeon challenges, and confronting chaos on the battlefield all required powerful support to thrive.
On the other hand, life professions languish at the bottom of the hierarchy. Still, despite their importance, none have yet reached the coveted status of a supreme-level life professional. The disparity in recognition between combat roles and life professions is evident, underscoring the need for a reevaluation of their contributions to both individual and team success.
Jimin lifted his gaze toward the awakening formation situated in the center of the field. A spark of excitement ignited in his eyes, and a slight smile danced on his lips at the thought of the transformation awaiting him.
It had been three years since he first arrived on Blue Star, a world where reality intertwined with gaming, creating vibrant landscapes populated by monsters, secret realms, and endless discoveries.
In Blue Star, humanity had undergone a profound digital evolution. Individuals like Jimin gained experience by conquering dungeons, exploring secret realms, and battling wild monsters. Each victory bolstered their character development, enabling them to level up and unlock new skills at pivotal moments. The stronger someone became, the more opportunities arose to join the frontline, fighting valiantly to secure humanity's survival and expand their territory.
The vastness of Blue Star was staggering—over a hundred times larger than the civilizations of the past, yet humanity controlled only a fraction, less than one-thousandth of its expanse. The possibilities for exploration and conquest were limitless, and with each step Jimin took, he felt the weight of destiny urging him forward.
"Hey, Jimin! You're on the brink of a career shift. Which profession are you most excited about awakening?"
Rayan, his best friend and deskmate, nudged him playfully, pulling him from his swirling thoughts.
Jimin furrowed his brow slightly, a rush of complicated emotions flooding his mind. As an orphan, he had endured much—losing both parents on the front line. Deep within, he harbored a burning desire to become a combat specialist, to eliminate monsters, and to avenge his parents sacrifice. If he could awaken a rare or even hidden profession, it would be a dream come true.
Having spent three years at No. 9 Senior High School, he poured his heart into his studies, earning the reputation of a top student.
"You know, it would be incredible to unlock something rare when the time comes. Imagine being an Arcane Mage, a Holy Warrior, or even a Night Shadow Assassin! The possibilities are endless!" Rayan continued, oblivious to Jimin's moment of reflection.
Jimin cracked a small smile. "Honestly, I've been hoping for a hidden profession."
Rayan's eyes widened in disbelief. "Come on, Jimin! Those haven't been seen in decades! But if anyone can pull it off, it's you!"
"Well, I won't lie," Jimin replied, his grin widening. "A rare profession would definitely come in handy—not just for the thrill of fighting but also to impress the ladies!"
"Ha! If you become some legendary hero, there will be girls lining up to get your attention!" Rayan laughed, shaking his head. "Just don't forget your old buddy when you're out there saving the world!"
"Don't worry," Jimin assured him, his eyes sparkling with ambition. "Whatever happens, I'll always have your back." As they shared a laugh, the anticipation of a bright future loomed before them.
However, a short distance away, Ali Braham observed them with grim disdain, his expression darkened by envy. Born into a prestigious family known for producing powerful combat professionals, Ali had always been regarded as a promising talent at No. 9 Senior High School. Yet, despite his achievements, he found himself perpetually overshadowed, ranking a distant third behind Jimin and Rayan, the school's top two students. While he could accept being surpassed by Rayan, Jimin's effortless success gnawed at him. The fact that an orphan could excel in every area, from academics to charm, was a bitter pill to swallow.
Ali's jealousy transformed into contempt. "Hmph," he thought bitterly, casting a sidelong glance at Jimin. "Once you awaken to your new career, you will be locked into that path forever."
As the anticipation surged through the crowd, a beam of light shot upward, signaling that the awakening formation was ready. The atmosphere shifted as the principal stepped forward, calling for attention.
"Attention, students!" he announced, his voice cutting through the whispers. "The transfer ceremony is about to begin. Please follow the instructions of your class teacher and proceed in the assigned order."
Ali Braham straightened, striving to mask his emotions behind a facade of indifference. But the simmering resentment was hard to contain. A nearby classmate leaned in, whispering, "Are you okay, Ali? You look a bit... tense."
"I'm fine," he replied curtly, forcing a smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Just focusing on what's coming. There are bigger things at stake than just this ceremony."
"Right," his classmate murmured, sensing the tension in the air. "But don't forget, we all have our own paths to walk."
"That's true," Ali responded, casting one last glance at Jimin and Rayan, their laughter ringing in his ears. "But some paths are meant to be claimed, not simply walked."
With that thought lingering, he steeled himself for the upcoming ceremony, feeling as if the stakes had never been higher.
As the eager students continued to gather around the transfer formation, the head teachers approached Master Aryan, the elder overseeing the ceremony.
"Master Aryan, thank you for taking the time to assist us today!" The teachers greeted him, bowing slightly.
With a gentle smile, Master Aryan shook his head. "It is my honor and privilege to assist you," he replied warmly.
After exchanging pleasantries, the teachers returned to their classes, the excitement palpable. The job transfers were set to begin with Class 1, Grade 3.
Fahad Nasar, the head teacher of Class 1, pulled out a list of names from his pocket. His gaze swept over the eager faces of his students, pride and nerves mingling in their expressions.
"Alright, everyone," Fahad began, his voice resonating with encouragement. "I've taught you all I could, and you've worked hard to learn. Now it's time to discover your true potential! Remember, you won't know if you excel or fall short until you step into the job transfer formation."
In a resolute tone, he called out, "The first name on the list is Noya Ruhena!"
As Fahad announced Noya's name, excitement reached a fever pitch, and the job transfer ceremony officially commenced.
Determined yet nervous, Noya Ruhena stepped forward, casting a hopeful glance at her classmates. "I hope I can emerge as a powerful mage!"
With bated breath, Noya approached the formation as the inaugural participant. Her classmates watched intently, each one speculating on the fate that awaited her in the shimmering light of the job transfer formation. This moment marked a significant turning point for all of them—a leap into a future brimming with endless possibilities.