Snake Calendar, Year 2025
7th Day of August - After Lunch Break - Early Afternoon
Unity College of System Studies - Auditorium of Unity
The Unity College Auditorium buzzed with excitement as hundreds of first-year students gathered to learn more about their academic pathways. The dean, a stern-looking man with spectacles and a crisp suit, stood at the podium. Behind him, a massive screen displayed the glowing emblem of the college.
"Students," he began, his voice commanding but calm, "today, we will introduce you to the four factions of Unity College. These factions are not merely social groups; they define your academic focus, your electives, and, to some extent, your future careers. Choose wisely, as your decision will shape your path within this institution."
With a wave of his hand, four distinct emblems materialized on the screen: a quill and scroll, a sword and shield, a chessboard and eagle, and a cogwheel with a lightning bolt. The room quieted as the dean continued, pointing to each emblem in turn.
1. The Faction of ScholarsThe emblem of a quill and scroll glowed softly, exuding an aura of wisdom. "The Scholars," the dean explained, "prioritize the pursuit of knowledge. Their studies range from history and linguistics to advanced system theories and arcane research. Scholars are the thinkers, the researchers, and the preservers of knowledge. If you have a thirst for understanding the world and its mysteries, this faction is for you."A murmur rippled through the crowd. A student near the front leaned toward his friend. "Sounds interesting, but do they ever get out of the library?"
"Depends on what you mean by 'get out,'" his friend replied. "But imagine the things they'll discover. I'm considering it."
Another student, sitting toward the back, jotted down notes. "Scholars sound like the ideal choice for me," she whispered to herself. "I've always been curious about the origins of systems."
2. The Faction of WarriorsNext, the sword and shield emblem shone with a bold, golden light. "The Warriors," the dean continued, "are the defenders of our society. They focus on strength, endurance, and combat skills. Their training includes not just physical prowess but also tactics and system-enhanced abilities for combat. If you value discipline, courage, and physical achievement, you might find your place here."A tall boy in the middle of the room grinned and nudged his friend. "That's me right there. Sword and shield all the way. I'm going to crush the combat trials."
His friend rolled his eyes. "You? Please, you'll be out of breath by the first lap of training."
"Watch me," the boy shot back, clearly determined.
3. The Faction of StrategistsThe chessboard and eagle emblem gleamed with a regal silver. "Strategists," the dean said, "are the leaders and planners. Their curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership skills, and resource management. They're the ones who coordinate efforts in large-scale operations, whether in business, governance, or combat. If you're a natural problem solver or have a knack for leadership, consider joining this faction.""Sounds like a lot of responsibility," a girl whispered to the student next to her. "But it also sounds… exciting. Imagine being the one to plan missions or negotiate treaties."
"Or the one blamed when things go wrong," the other student joked. "Still, it's a good choice if you're good at strategy games."
4. The Faction of InnovatorsThe cogwheel and lightning bolt emblem crackled with energy, drawing murmurs of admiration from the students. "Innovators," the dean announced, "are the creators of our world. They study engineering, system enhancements, and technological development. Innovators are inventors, crafting tools and devices that shape the future. If you're creative and love building things, this faction will feel like home."A student in a hoodie perked up at this. "That's it," he said to no one in particular. "I'm going to build something that'll change the game. Innovators, here I come."
As the dean finished his explanation, he stepped aside for a senior student to speak. The senior, wearing a badge with the Scholars' emblem, addressed the crowd. "Choosing a faction is a big decision," he said. "But don't worry—you have until the end of orientation week to decide. Visit the faction halls, talk to members, and see where you feel you belong."
A girl raised her hand. "Can we change factions later if we don't like our first choice?"
The senior nodded. "You can, but it's not easy. Your faction defines your electives and projects, so switching midway means catching up on a lot of missed work. Choose carefully."
The students exchanged glances, their excitement mingled with nervousness. Groups began forming as friends discussed their options.
"I'm torn between Scholars and Innovators," one boy said. "I love learning, but I also want to build things."
"Then talk to both factions," his friend suggested. "See which one feels right."
Accel listened to the chatter around him, staying quiet. He already knew where his interests lay—the Faction of Scholars. But the thought of discussing his system made his stomach churn. He'd have to navigate this carefully to avoid exposing his Archivist System.
As the students began dispersing to explore the faction halls, Accel took a deep breath. The next steps would be crucial in shaping his future at Unity College.