The classroom was filled with the sound of chairs scraping and students chatting loudly. Morning lessons had just ended, and everyone was excited for the big announcement from the academy's head instructor.
I sat near the window, feeling the warm sunlight hit my desk. Haruto, the boy sitting next to me, leaned over.
"Hey, Itsuki. Did you hear? They're going to let first-years take part in the demon subjugation trials this year," he said, his eyes full of excitement.
"Demon subjugation trials?" I repeated, trying to sound like I knew what he meant.
Haruto raised an eyebrow. "You're kidding, right? It's the academy's way to test us in the real world. We get to work with senior hunters and fight low-level demons in a controlled zone. Usually, only second-years and above can join, but this year… they're giving us a shot."
I gave a slow nod, pretending to understand. Inside, my head was spinning. Demons? Real demons? So they aren't just stories here…
The door opened, and the instructor, a tall man with a sharp voice, stepped in. The classroom immediately fell silent.
"As you've heard, the academy has decided to allow selected first-years to participate in the upcoming demon hunt," he announced. "This will take place in the Western Outskirts—an area infested with Class-D demons. You will be paired with experienced hunters for safety. Participation is voluntary, but those who succeed may be promoted to a higher badge rank."
At the mention of "badge rank," I glanced at the small badge pinned to my uniform. The Ash Badge—the lowest of the low. Haruto had one too, though he looked determined to change that.
"I'm in," Haruto said without hesitation. Then he turned to me with a grin. "You better come too, Itsuki. It'll be fun."
I didn't answer right away. My instincts told me that fighting demons wasn't exactly "fun." But part of me wanted to see what these creatures looked like. Maybe it would help me understand this strange world a little better.
"Fine," I said at last. "I'll join."
Haruto patted my back like I'd just made the best decision of my life.
The rest of the class buzzed with talk about weapons, strategy, and what kind of demons they might face. Some were nervous, others thrilled. I stayed quiet, listening.
By the end of the day, we were given consent forms to sign. Haruto and I walked home together, the sun setting behind the academy walls.
"You ever fought a demon before?" he asked.
I shook my head. "Never."
"Then stick close to me. I've read a lot about them," Haruto said confidently.
I smiled faintly, though deep inside, something about this hunt made my chest feel heavy. I didn't know if it was fear… or something else entirely.