Snake Calendar, Year 2025
7th Day of August - Late Morning
Unity College of System Studies - Auditorium of Unity
The large auditorium buzzed with low murmurs as the orientation continued. Students were eager, some flipping through handouts provided by the staff, others whispering about the possibilities ahead. On stage, the silver-haired man who had introduced himself as Headmaster Alden stepped back as a line of professors and instructors approached the podium one by one.
The first was a woman in her late thirties, her sharp features softened by a warm smile. She wore a pristine white coat, the emblem of the Scholars faction embroidered on her sleeve.
"Good morning, students," she began, her voice carrying an air of authority. "I am Professor Elara Venn. I'll be overseeing your System Fundamentals course this semester." She gestured to a large screen behind her as it lit up with a diagram of various system rarities.
"As you all know, your systems define your abilities, strengths, and potential. But what you might not know is how much control you truly have over them. Systems, no matter the rarity, can be improved through effort, strategy, and adaptability."
A student in the front raised his hand. "Professor, is it true that upgrading a system's rarity is nearly impossible for those with Common Tier systems?"
Elara nodded thoughtfully. "The statistics are not in your favor, that's true. However, history has proven that determination and ingenuity can surpass even the harshest odds. Remember, the system is a tool—what matters is the person wielding it."
The screen changed to a diagram of two skill categories: Neural Commands and Auto-Adaptation.
"Now, let's discuss skills. Neural Commands, or active skills, require energy to activate and are often tied to your system's capabilities. For example, a Vanguard might use a skill like Shield Bash to defend, while a Seeker might employ Quickstep for evasive maneuvers."
She clicked a button, and the slide shifted to Auto-Adaptation.
"On the other hand, Auto-Adaptation, or passive skills, enhance your attributes without requiring energy. These are often subtle but can significantly impact your performance. Think of them as your body's way of naturally adjusting to the challenges it faces."
Another student raised their hand. "Professor, how do we increase the proficiency of these skills?"
"Excellent question. Proficiency grows through consistent use. For 'Neural Commands', the more you activate and apply the skill effectively, the faster it levels up. 'Auto-Adaptation' improves as you expose yourself to conditions that align with the skill's purpose. For instance, if you have a passive skill enhancing endurance, you'll notice improvement in the more physically demanding activities you engage in."
Elara stepped aside as another instructor took her place. This time, a burly man with a commanding voice.
"Name's Instructor Brax Kynor," he said, addressing the students. "I'll be handling your Combat Applications course. Let me be clear: not every system is combat-focused, but that doesn't mean you get a free pass. Whether you're a Scholar or a Seeker, understanding basic defense is essential. We'll cover survival tactics, practical sparring, and group strategies."
The students whispered among themselves, excitement and nervousness mingling in their expressions.
"First-years, pay attention," Brax continued. "Your year will be divided into core subjects and electives. Core subjects include System Fundamentals, History of Systems, Combat Applications, and Practical Teamwork. Electives allow you to specialize based on your faction or interests."
A murmur spread through the crowd. "What electives should we choose?" someone whispered.
"Think long-term," Brax boomed, apparently hearing the question. "Choose based on what complements your system. Don't pick something just because it sounds cool."
The next to speak was a senior student, her Scholars badge gleaming proudly. "My name is Iris Faynor, and I'm here on behalf of the student council. First-years, we're here to help. You'll find council representatives from all factions in the main hall after orientation. If you have questions about your schedules or classes, don't hesitate to ask."
Accel sat quietly, absorbing the information. He scribbled notes about the subjects and the details of the system mechanics, though his mind wandered at times. Core subjects, electives, system rarities… how can I make the most of this with what I have?
As the orientation wrapped up, Headmaster Alden returned to the stage. "Students, today marks the beginning of your journey. Remember, success is not measured solely by the power of your system but by how you grow and adapt. Now, you are dismissed from your assigned groups. Make connections, learn from your peers, and above all—embrace the unknown."
Accel stood and joined the wave of students leaving the auditorium. Around him, voices buzzed with excitement.
"Combat classes sound intense."
"I can't wait to see how my skills stack up against others!"
"I wonder what electives will be the most useful…"
As he walked, Accel's grip tightened on his notebook. He had a long road ahead, but something inside him stirred—a quiet determination to prove that even the weakest system could make an impact.