"Then which university are you thinking of joining?" Roy asked casually, glancing at Sein.
The education system in this world was almost identical to what Sein had experienced in his previous life. From the age of six to fifteen, children studied general subjects. At fifteen, individuals either awakened or remained non-awakened. Those who awakened were expected to attend specialized academies for awakeners, while non-awakened individuals pursued roles vital to the functioning of society.
"Well, I haven't decided yet," Sein admitted, scratching the back of his head, looking a little uncertain.
"Then how about we try for Axis Academy?" Roy suggested with a grin.
"Axis Academy?!" Sein repeated, his tone a mix of surprise and uncertainty.
Axis Academy was one of the top institutions in the world of Belmond, situated at the border of the Golden Land and the Federation. It was renowned for producing elite awakeners, making it a dream destination for many. However, gaining admission was particularly challenging.
Even reaching the testing phase required a recommendation quota, which was primarily controlled by influential families and powerful figures. Additionally, the teaching staff held their own recommendation quotas, granting them at their discretion. This system made it exceedingly difficult—if not outright impossible—for individuals from lower-class backgrounds to gain admission to Axis Academy.
"But we don't even have a recommendation quota to participate," Sein said, frowning.
"Don't worry about that," Roy replied with a confident smile, pointing at himself. "I'll handle it."
Hearing this, Sein was surprised. While he was aware that Roy's family was influential, he hadn't realized they were powerful enough to secure something as exclusive as a recommendation quota for Axis Academy.
"Well, if you say so," Sein replied, though a hint of hesitation lingered in his voice.
***************
After an hour or so, their class was dismissed. Most of the students had already left, leaving behind only the Awakened students who stayed to practice their newly acquired skills in the training room. Sein, having already placed Kuro into the beast space for convenience, exited the academy alongside Roy. The once-bustling halls were now quiet as the remaining students trickled out.
As they stepped outside, Sein noticed an old man standing not far away, dressed in a butler's uniform. Behind him was a sleek, black, expensive-looking vehicle, its polished surface gleaming under the fading sunlight.
Although the vehicle resembled the cars from Sein's previous life, it was powered by a unique energy known as "Fel"—the lifeblood of Belmond's technology and infrastructure. Fel could be found in the very atmosphere, much like air, but its properties made it suitable for powering everything from vehicles to advanced machinery.
Additionally, it was the lifeblood and source of power of those who gained supernatural powers through technological means.
Seeing them emerge, the old man immediately took notice and approached them quickly.
"Young Master Roy, Young Master Sein," he said respectfully, bowing his head slightly.
"Um," Roy responded, his tone casual.
"Hello, Butler Fred," Sein greeted with a smile. The elderly man before them, with his well-groomed beard, was Butler Fred, Roy's lifelong servant. Having known him since childhood, Sein greeted him with familiarity.
"Young Master Roy, it's time to head out. Shall we go?" Butler Fred asked, gesturing toward the sleek black vehicle.
Roy turned to Sein. "Do you need a ride?I can drop you off if you want."
Sein smiled and shook his head. "Thanks, but you know my house is opposite to where you live, and it's not much distance. I'll just walk."
Roy nodded, a grin spreading across his face. "Alright, see you tomorrow!" He climbed into the car, with Fred following suit, and the vehicle hummed to life as they drove off.
Sein waved them off, then turned in the opposite direction, heading towards his home.
*****************
Unknown to Sein, inside Roy's vehicle, a conversation was unfolding.
"Young master, do you think it's appropriate to request an additional quota?" Fred asked politely, his tone respectful but filled with a hint of concern.
Roy, usually carefree and easygoing, now wore a cold, stern expression.
"Hmph, it's not like they'd face any issues granting an additional quota," Roy replied dismissively, his voice carrying an edge of frustration.
"But it may leave a bad impression on the elders of the family," Fred said cautiously.
Roy's gaze turned even colder, his jaw tightening as he leaned back in his seat. "As if I care what those selfish people think about me. If it weren't for grandpa, I wouldn't have a single connection with this family after what they did to my parents."
Fred let out a soft sigh, bowing his head slightly. "Yes, young master.".
*****************
On the other side, Sein made his way towards his home, which was only about a 10-minute walk from the academy.
Before long, he stood in front of his house. It was a modest two-story home, simple in design yet welcoming. The exterior featured a small porch with flower pots neatly arranged by the door. Plain windows adorned the neutral-colored walls, giving the house an unpretentious, cozy feel. The well-kept garden and tidy yard added a touch of warmth, making it a comfortable and peaceful place to return to.
Sein reached the door and took out his key, inserting it into the lock. With a soft click, the door swung open, and he stepped inside.
As soon as he entered, the sound of footsteps echoed, and a little boy appeared. He was around 9 years old, with black hair and dark eyes that sparkled with excitement.
"Welcome home, brother!" the boy exclaimed, his face lighting up with a bright smile.
Sein smiled warmly at his younger brother and ruffled his hair. "Hey there, little troublemaker. How was your day?"
Cier, Sein's little brother, started eagerly, "You know, brother, today we....."
Sein smiled, listening patiently as Cier excitedly went on. Ten minutes passed as Cier continued to talk non-stop, recounting every detail of his day.
Finally, Sein interrupted gently, "Alright, alright, that's enough, Cier. Now, I need to get ready and make dinner."
Cier pouted for a moment but then nodded, "Okay, brother."
After sending Cier back to his room, Sein headed to the bathroom to wash his face. Once refreshed, he donned an apron and made his way to the kitchen to prepare dinner.