Aurelius University loomed in the distance, its sleek towers piercing the sky like jagged beacons of power and prestige. The sprawling campus was a testament to humanity's ambition, blending futuristic architecture with classical design. Holographic banners shimmered overhead, displaying the university's motto:
"Excellence Above All."
"Subtle," Eiden muttered, trudging forward.
The main gates were crowded with students, both Gifted and Ungifted, though the former clearly dominated in numbers—and presence. Some students floated lazily toward the entrance, while others arrived in bursts of speed or flashes of light. A few made more dramatic entrances, like the guy who descended in a swirling tornado, his friends cheering him on.
Eiden, on the other hand, walked. He adjusted the strap of his bag and sighed, trying not to look too out of place.
The campus buzzed with activity. Gifted students demonstrated their powers openly, turning the quad into a display of raw talent. One group practiced conjuring fiery constructs, their flaming swords clashing with sparks. Another worked on telekinetic control, levitating books and benches in intricate patterns.
Eiden sidestepped a pair of students sparring with shockwaves, the vibrations rattling his teeth.
"First day, and I'm already dodging explosions. Fantastic," he muttered, rubbing his temples.
He kept his head down as he passed the groups, feeling their gazes linger on him. Being Ungifted wasn't just a disadvantage here—it was a mark of insignificance.
...
Eiden finally reached the administration building, a sleek structure made of polished steel and glass. The receptionist, a cheerful woman with glowing purple eyes—a sign of her cerebral Gift—handed him a folder.
"Welcome to Aurelius, Mr. Kross," she said warmly. "Your dorm assignment and class schedule are in here. Orientation begins at nine in the Unity Hall. Try not to be late."
"Thanks," Eiden replied, taking the folder and stepping aside.
He scanned the schedule. The first day seemed straightforward enough: an introductory lecture, a campus tour, and a welcome speech by the student council president.
"Unity Hall, huh?" he murmured, folding the papers neatly into his bag. "Let's see how united this place really is."
The hall was massive, a cavernous auditorium filled with students. Eiden slipped into a seat near the back, where he could watch without drawing attention.
The lights dimmed as a tall figure stepped onto the stage. Arden Drake, the student council president, radiated confidence. His dark suit and sharp gaze complemented his commanding presence, and when he spoke, the room fell silent.
"Welcome to Aurelius University," Arden began, his voice smooth and authoritative. "Here, we don't just nurture talent—we forge the future. You've all earned your place here, whether through strength, intellect, or ambition."
Eiden bristled at the word "earned." For the Ungifted, it often felt like they were here as a courtesy, not because they belonged.
Arden's gaze swept over the audience, his eyes lingering briefly in Eiden's direction. It wasn't a look of recognition—more like mild disdain.
"This is your chance to rise above mediocrity," Arden continued. "To prove that you are exceptional. Aurelius is not for the weak. It is for those who dare to claim greatness."
The crowd erupted into applause. Eiden remained still, his hands clenched into fists.
He wasn't here to claim greatness. He was here to survive.
...
After the speech, Eiden wandered through the campus, map in hand. The dorms were located on the east side, a cluster of modern buildings with shared living spaces. His assigned room was small but functional—a bed, desk, and a narrow window overlooking the quad.
As he unpacked, a soft chime from his phone caught his attention. It was a message from Evander Noctis:
"How's the first day going? Remember, no matter what happens, you belong there. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise."
Eiden stared at the message, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Evander always knew what to say.
"Thanks," he muttered under his breath, placing the phone aside.
He sat on the edge of his bed, staring out the window as the sun dipped lower in the sky.
Tomorrow would bring classes, challenges, and more of the Gifted's dominance. But for now, he allowed himself a moment of calm, the weight of the day settling over him like a heavy blanket.
"Day one down," he murmured. "Only… a thousand more to go."
Outside, the campus buzzed with life, but for Eiden, the storm was just beginning.