The sun had barely crept above the horizon when Kael Vernier stirred. Monday the start of his academic life at the world's most elite academy.
He rose from bed, his movements fluid from habit. He bathed, brushed, and threw on his clean training uniform, sleek and fitted. After a quick breakfast prepared from the luxurious kitchen in his dorm, he lounged on the couch and flipped through the news on the sleek glass panel TV embedded into the wall.
Once he'd had his fill of world affairs, he tapped the face of his academy-issued watch. The glowing holographic screen blinked alive with the day's timetable:
1. History of Realms and Empires
2. Mana Control
— Break —
3. Mana Theory & Application
4. Combat Simulation
— Lunch —
He narrowed his eyes slightly.
"Can't skip history. Not just because it's the first day… but because it's a core subject. Knowing the past is key to surviving the future in this world."
He stood up, adjusted his collar, and left his dorm.
As he entered the hallways of the Academic Tower, they were quieter than usual. It was still early, a pale morning glow seeping in through the crystal-glass windows. When he finally reached the History Lecture Hall, he expected to be alone.
He wasn't.
A few students had already taken their seats.
He immediately recognized them Jin Eldraven, sitting with his usual cold composure; Elira Morvayne, her crimson eyes calm and focused; and even Samantha Solaris, seated alone near a window with a book in her hand.
Kael let out a quiet sigh and chuckled.
"Guess I'm gonna need to step up my game at coming early."
He walked down the rows and took a seat at the far back, leaning into the chair with a half-smile on his lips.
"Let the real lessons begin."