The next morning, sunlight slipped through the tall windows of Class 1-A, casting warm rays on the white stone walls of the academy.
Today's lesson started earlier than usual. The students were already seated neatly at their desks, some still yawning while others chatted in hushed tones. The room felt more alive than it had on the first day.
Kael sat in the third row, next to Leinhardt and one seat behind Irelith. Around him, twenty-one other students began to show their unique colors—through their mannerisms, speech, and even the way they looked at the magic board.
Class 1-A consisted of 24 students—a mix of noble children, descendants of veteran mages, and a few who had earned their spots through sheer merit and rigorous testing.
In the far corner of the room sat Lancer Odtry—the top scorer in the entrance trials. His appearance remained unchanged: neatly draped blonde hair, a calm face, and eyes like frozen lakes. He rarely spoke, but his presence alone was enough to discourage idle conversation.
Kael glanced at him for a moment. For some reason, Lancer's presence stirred something within him.
"He's a guy?... I still doubt it," Kael muttered inwardly. "I have to admit, he's the most beautiful person I've ever seen."
Irelith noticed Kael staring and smirked.
"Hey, your eyes are about to pop out," she teased.
Kael chuckled and replied with a playful tone, "What's wrong, my dear Irelith? Jealous of a guy?"
She narrowed her eyes. "You looked at him like you looked at me the first time. What's next? You falling for me all over ?"
"He's a guy, Irelith," Kael replied with a soft smile.
---
Mana Control Practice
Instructor Elroin entered the classroom, holding scrolls and small mana crystals.
"Morning, students. Today, we'll begin your first hands-on session: Mana Control Practice."
"Everyone, to the practice garden. Bring your scrolls."
The class quickly moved. They headed to the back garden—a grassy area enclosed by a magical barrier. Crystals were placed atop pedestals, one for each student.
"Your task today is simple. Channel your mana into the crystal. We won't measure your power but your precision, control, and response," Elroin explained.
Some students considered it an easy task, having practiced similar drills in their noble households. For others, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, it was a tougher challenge.
Kael stood in front of his crystal, taking a breath before channeling his mana. A soft, stable blue light pulsed from the center of the crystal, reflecting his controlled flow.
Not far from him, Lancer did the same. However, unlike Kael, his crystal shone with blinding golden-white light, as if it were about to explode.
"You see that?" Leinhardt whispered. "That crystal's practically screaming."
"That's not normal power..." murmured Rose from the other side.
Kael glanced at Lancer. Their eyes met briefly—a fleeting moment, yet enough to ignite something.
Lancer gave a small nod, unclear whether it was a greeting or a challenge. Kael responded with a neutral expression.
---
First Exchange
After the session, the students gathered again. Many began mingling, slowly getting to know each other.
Perona Airst, the barrier magic user, walked up to Kael and Irelith.
"You two are engaged, right?" she asked bluntly.
"Yes. It's been a while," Irelith answered calmly.
"That's cool. But isn't it stressful, Kael?" Perona asked while nudging his arm.
Kael shrugged. "More like... a daily duel I can't win."
Irelith chuckled. For the first time that day, Kael smiled.
Elsewhere, Leinhardt was already getting along with two other students: Taylor Wist and Radian Deisk.
"Which house are you from?" Taylor asked.
"Marquis Ibelion," Leinhardt answered proudly.
"Figures. You act like a failed prince," Radian teased.
"Better than being a rich brat who whines all day," Leinhardt shot back, and the group burst into laughter.
Meanwhile, Kael walked toward the edge of the garden, seeking solitude. But someone caught up with him first.
"Kael Rynthier," said Lancer.
Kael turned. Lancer stood upright, not smiling, not lowering his gaze.
"Do you always control your mana in a spiral pattern? It's... interesting," Lancer continued.
Kael was caught off guard. It was the first time Lancer had spoken to him.
"It helps stabilize the pressure," Kael replied briefly.
"I like your approach. Unorthodox, but efficient."
"Thanks. You nearly blew up your crystal, though."
Lancer gave the faintest of smiles.
"Perhaps one day, we should test our powers. Outside of exams."
Kael held his gaze. Not with hostility, but with resolve.
"Maybe," he answered. "When that day comes, don't regret it."
End of the Day
Day's End
As evening approached, the students returned to their classrooms, wrapping up discussions on ancient magic theory and history lessons.
When the closing bell rang, the system reactivated.
[DING!]
[Survival Trial Countdown – T-4 Days Remaining]
Kael exited the classroom, walking alongside Irelith and Leinhardt.
"Did you talk to Lancer?" Irelith asked, glancing his way.
"A little."
"Be careful. He's like a knife in a velvet sheath," Irelith said softly.
Leinhardt added, "If you two ever end up on the same team, I'm not sure if it'd be good... or bad."
Kael remained silent, his eyes fixed on the darkening sky.
"Somehow... I'm looking forward to it."