The morning sun filtered through the grand windows of Leonheart Royal Academy. Hallways gleamed with polished marble, and students in crisp uniforms moved between classes with quiet purpose.
Rose Leonheart, silver hair tied in a simple braid, strode through the corridors. She didn't like mornings—or studying—but her instincts told her that the academy demanded presence as much as skill.
Her blue eyes scanned the crowd. Students bowed as she passed, whispering respectfully. Yet, some avoided her gaze entirely, afraid of drawing her attention. The aura of the Silver Leon bloodline was subtle, but it radiated power and authority that even adults couldn't ignore.
The Classroom
Rose entered her second-year classroom. Desks were arranged in tiers, and students murmured in anticipation. Today was not just another lecture—it was the introduction of the academy's newest elite.
A hush fell over the room as he walked in.
Tall. Broad-shouldered. Black hair perfectly in place. Light blue eyes scanning the room as if measuring everything at once.
No one had to say his name. Everyone knew.
Jax Pendragon.
He didn't bow. He didn't smile. He simply walked to the front of the classroom, past whispers and awe-struck students, and chose a seat near the back.
First Impressions
Rose felt a flicker of curiosity.
There was something… different about him. She couldn't read his aura. His presence was undeniable, yet calm—cold, even. It reminded her of a predator quietly observing a hunting ground.
The teacher, a stern woman with silver-threaded hair, cleared her throat.
"Class, we have a new student. Jax Pendragon, entrance exam Rank 1."
Whispers erupted.
Rank 1. First day. Bloodline unknown. Unknown aura. A student no system could measure.
Rose simply tilted her head. Rankings mean little if a student can't even be measured.
The Academy System
After morning announcements, the holographic system displayed the current combat rankings, fully public:
Top 10 Combat Rankings — 2nd Year
Kael Draven — Fireblood Dragon, Rank SS
Seraphina Vale — Silver Hawk, Rank SSS
Lucien Mordred — Shadow Wolf, Rank S
Astra Whitlock — Sky Serpent, Rank S
Darius Crowne — Thunder Lion, Rank A+
Felix Arden — Iron Tiger, Rank A
Rose Leonheart — Silver Leon, Rank SSS
Elias Vorn — Frost Falcon, Rank A+
Lyra Moonveil — Moon Panther, Rank A
Vacant
Rose's rank flashed prominently: SSS — Silver Leon Bloodline.
Even with her high rank, she felt a familiar irritation. Students around her constantly assumed superiority because of titles—but strength was more than numbers, and today, she would see just how true that was.
A Mysterious Challenge
During lunch, the academy announced a sparring session for all second-years. It was customary for new students to test their mettle—but only after approval by the system.
Jax didn't hesitate. He walked to the arena, shoulders squared, expression unreadable. Rose followed—not because she wanted to fight him—but because curiosity demanded it.
When the arena gates opened, the entire class watched.
Students whispered: "Rank 1… with no bloodline? How is that possible?"
Teachers whispered: "That student… the system can't even read him."
Rose stepped forward. Silver aura flared around her. Sword aura hummed lightly.
Jax didn't move.
Then a single thought ran through her mind:
This one is not ordinary.