Caleb stood in front of the principal's office, feeling a knot of unease tighten in his stomach. His mind was still spinning from the confrontation with the second-year students earlier that morning. He had never expected to face so much hostility so soon.
But now, standing before the imposing wooden doors of the principal's office, he couldn't help but feel the weight of the situation. He had no idea why the principal wanted to see him, but a sense of dread clung to him as the door opened with a quiet creak.
"Come in, Caleb," a deep voice called from within.
The principal's office was nothing like Caleb had imagined. Instead of the grand, imposing room full of trophies and symbols of power he expected, it was a calm, almost minimalist space. Shelves of books lined the walls, and a large window provided a panoramic view of the academy's grounds. Behind a simple oak desk sat Principal Eldrick, a tall man with salt-and-pepper hair and a gaze that seemed to pierce right through you.
"Sit down, Caleb," he said, gesturing to the chair across from his desk.
Caleb obeyed, his nerves creeping up again. He wasn't sure what to expect, but the principal's stern expression suggested it wasn't a simple conversation.
Principal Eldrick leaned forward, his hands folding neatly on the desk. "You've shown considerable potential, Caleb. A first-year student taming an S-rank beast on your first day? That's unprecedented."
Caleb shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "It wasn't intentional… I just did what I had to."
"I understand," Eldrick replied with a faint smile. "But potential alone won't be enough in this world. You're going to need more than just instinct to handle what's coming."
The principal motioned to a small glass vial sitting on the corner of his desk. Inside, there was a faint glow—an essence germ, Caleb realized.
"This," Eldrick continued, "is a high-quality essence germ, rich in mana. It's the key to strengthening your bond with your wolf and cultivating your own abilities. I want you to take it."
Caleb stared at the vial, his brow furrowing. "I… I don't know, sir. This looks—this looks too precious. I don't think I should take something like this. It's far too valuable for someone like me."
The principal's gaze softened, though it remained serious. "I understand your hesitance. But Caleb, You've already proven yourself capable of taming an S-rank beast. That wolf is not just a companion—it's a tool for your growth. You must cultivate yourself, just as you would a beast. This essence germ will help you. It's an opportunity, not a burden."
Caleb hesitated. His fingers drummed nervously against his legs, but the principal's unwavering gaze held him in place.
"Take it, Caleb," Eldrick urged again, his voice gentle but firm. "This is a command, not a suggestion. You need to cultivate your strength if you're going to be ready for what lies ahead."
After a long, heavy silence, Caleb nodded. He couldn't ignore the gravity of the situation any longer. This wasn't just about him anymore. It was about survival—and maybe even saving the world.
He took the vial, feeling the heat from the mana swirling inside. It was warm, almost alive, and as his fingers closed around it, he felt an unexpected sense of connection, as if the essence germ itself was calling to him.
"Good," Eldrick said. "When you get home, use it to cultivate your abilities. The process will be taxing, but it will make you stronger."
After another brief silence, Caleb stood, the vial still in his hand.
"You're dismissed, Caleb. It's time for you to return to class."