The Vesillian Academy, located at the heart of the Zephyros continent's capital, is regarded as the training ground for exceptional talents in Mana across the land. Individuals who reach Adept-level Mana proficiency are eligible to apply, making this a gathering place for young prodigies from prestigious families as well as extraordinary individuals from all walks of life
The admission day is always a major event, attracting not only students but also nobles and influential figures. The grand plaza in front of the academy's gates is bathed in sunlight, buzzing with chatter and the arrival of luxurious carriages carrying future students. This year, the public is abuzz not only because heirs of prominent families are participating but also due to the appearance of standout figures from ducal houses
Merias Goldwyn, the representative of the renowned Goldwyn family, steps down from a carriage bearing a radiant golden sun emblem. With her short, shimmering blonde hair and golden eyes, she immediately captures everyone's attention. Her confident and regal demeanor makes it clear to most that she is destined to lead her family, especially with rumors swirling about her possession of the rare special Mana
Meanwhile, Lancy Fairchild, heir of the Fairchild family, also makes his entrance. Unlike Merias' striking presence, Lancy exudes a more modest aura. His red hair and brown eyes behind round glasses give him a somewhat reserved appearance, but those who know him whisper that he is an academic genius who spends most of his time in the family library
However, the name on everyone's lips is none other than the mysterious best friend of Princess Amelia. This year, the princess turns 15, making her eligible to enroll in Vesillian Academy. Rumors about her bringing along a best friend have sparked weeks of curiosity. "Who could be so close to the princess?" "I heard it's a very handsome boy, but which family does he belong to?" Questions swirl among the groups of students
Finally, the wait ends as an intricately designed royal carriage bearing the emblem of Zephyros' royal bird approaches the academy gates. A ripple of excitement spreads through the crowd.
When the coachman opens the carriage door, all eyes focus intently. A young man steps out first, and the atmosphere seems to still for a moment
He has slightly messy, mid-length black hair that shines faintly in the sunlight. His ember-colored eyes, warm and mysterious, radiate an irresistible charm. A pair of elegant round glasses on his nose further accentuate his intellectual aura. Dressed impeccably in the academy's navy blue blazer trimmed with black, paired with a crisp white shirt, he emanates a noble and distinct presence
The young man turns, extending a hand to assist a girl stepping out of the carriage. She is none other than Princess Amelia herself
Her long, silvery-white hair glistens in the sunlight, her deep ocean-blue eyes, and her refined facial features make her appear like a living work of art. Her navy academy uniform highlights her slender frame and delicate elegance
Whispers quickly fill the air:
"That's Princess Amelia! She's stunning!"
"But who is that young man? Is he the rumored best friend?"
"Oh my, he's incredibly handsome! Which noble house is he from?"
Amelia offers a gentle smile at the gazes surrounding them and walks alongside the young man toward the academy's main gates. He remains calm and composed, unfazed by the attention, exuding an air of quiet confidence
—
'So many people' Kaiser thinks as he observes the curious stares around him
Walking beside him, Amelia glances at him with a hint of curiosity in her eyes "Are you nervous?" she asks
Kaiser shakes his head "No, just surprised by how many people are here"
Amelia smiles slightly, her lips curling in quiet confidence "There are many outstanding individuals this year, like me and the heirs of two ducal families, so it's natural that there's so much attention"
The two continue walking, heading toward the main plaza of Vesillian Academy, where a large group of students has already gathered, awaiting the opening ceremony. Soon, the principal appears. An older man with a sharp, angular face, a confident smile, and piercing eyes. His snow-white beard and mustache, along with his neatly combed silver hair, gives him an aura of authority and wisdom
Amelia tilts her head slightly, lowering her voice to Kaiser "I heard he's at the peak of Mage level and is close to reaching Nova"
The principal steps onto the podium, his deep, resonant voice commanding attention "I am Murek Bovet, the headmaster of Vesillian Academy" he introduces himself, followed by the usual speech about the pride of guiding the younger generation, the academy's immense responsibility, and aspirations for the future
Kaiser stands still, his gaze wandering 'Just formalities' he thinks, barely paying attention to the speech
When the speech concludes, the principal continues "Now, we come to the most important part"
A group of staff steps forward, carrying shimmering Mana Orbs and Mana Control Bracelets
Merias gestures toward them "I'm sure everyone is familiar with these. These are Mana Orbs and bracelets for Adept-level training. We will test your proficiency to determine class placements. The classes will be evenly matched in terms of strength"
Students start stepping forward for the test. Most manage to fill only a quarter of the orb and activate about 10% of the bracelet's power. However, the outstanding students quickly capture everyone's attention. Merias Goldwyn fills 60% of the orb and activates 40% of the bracelet. The brilliant golden light of her mana sparks murmurs, confirming rumors of her possessing a rare Special Mana. Princess Amelia is not far behind, achieving half the orb and activating 25% of the bracelet
"Next, Kaiser" Murek announces
"Another commoner?" some nobles mutter
Kaiser then steps forward, heading toward the podium.
"It's him!?" Many curious voices arise
"I thought he was a noble. Did the princess just pick him up from the streets?" a mocking voice calls out
Kaiser hears these remarks but merely chuckles inwardly. 'That last part isn't far from the truth,' he thinks, walking up amidst the crowd's curiosity. Amelia, standing below, glares coldly at the mockers, silencing them immediately
Kaiser picks up the Mana Orb. His face remains calm as he channels his Mana into it. Instantly, a radiant golden light bursts forth, blinding everyone
"It's golden? Isn't he supposed to be a commoner?"
"That doesn't matter now! Don't you see?"
All eyes fixate on Kaiser, who stands there smiling.
"The orb... isn't it completely filled?" Merias, who had been confident in her own strength, cannot hide her astonishment