4 Class In Session
The lecture hall unfolded as a grand expanse, its orderly rows of seats and colossal holographic screen at the front buzzing with the lively chatter of students finding their places.
Choosing a seat near the centre, my eyes swept the room in search of familiar faces.
One by one, the protagonists of the novel enter the room.
Jan, with his confident stride, Louise exuding fiery confidence, and the unique personalities of Camilia, Bazz, and Lyra, all took their designated seats.
The room was filled with the vibrant hues of their distinct characters.
"Oh, another thrilling year awaits, doesn't it?"
Louise scoffed, playfully bumping his shoulder into Jan's as he passed. Jan, unfazed, continued as if nothing had happened.
Valencia, however, watched Louise with a subtle hint of concern in her eyes.
"It's wonderful to be reunited with everyone from the Prep academy,"
Jan greeted with a warm smile, the relief evident in his expression.
"Argh, I guess there is no escape from being your classmate Jan."
Bazz sighed walking up the stairs with Jan.
As expected, the interaction sparked a mix of emotions in the room.
I maintained my composure, having anticipated every nuance of this reunion.
"Hello, Camila! Hi, Lyra! Can you believe we're in the same class this year?"
Valencia's excitement radiated as they took seats near the centre, beside me.
I caught a glimpse of disdain in her expression, I could feel a little pressure just from the look but it was the reaction I had come to expect. Valencia, after all, was crafted to embody such characteristics.
"mmm, I wonder who our teacher is I hope he isn't strict," Camila spoke relaxingly she seemed to look lost.
"I hope he's extra nice~" Lyra added with her sweet tuneful voice
"I just hope the teachers at this academy live up to the standards," Valencia spoke as she chuckled.
Shortly after, Miya and Noah made their entrance, and following them were Alice and Jae, who, as anticipated, shared a familiarity that hinted at the bonds they would forge later in the story.
"So many monsters in one classroom," Noah mused, his eyes lighting up with an unmistakable spark.
"This year is certainly gonna be interesting" Miya walked by with a smile elegantly walking.
As we patiently awaited the arrival of our teacher, the minutes ticked by, setting the stage for the unfolding narrative within the walls of the lecture hall.
The other students around me seemed to shift uncomfortably in their seats, a palpable tension lingering as the intimidating presence of the main cast settled in, casting a shadow over the room.
It was evident that the reputation of these remarkable individuals had preceded them, leaving an indelible mark on the atmosphere within the lecture hall.
shaaaaa
Smoke entered the room and with each step he took no sound escaped his feet and by the looks of his standout belly, I knew exactly who it was.
Kolek strode to the front of the room, not bothering with a roll call.
"The name's Kolek," he spoke, "If you haven't heard of me, you've been living under a rock. Now, let's see if you're worth my time or just another batch of washouts."
A tremor of anticipation rippled through the room. Whispers of his name rose and fell like a low tide.
Even as the author, I couldn't deny the jolt of recognition. Kolek. Reputation aside, the man radiated an unwavering integrity that felt rare in this world.
Students might crack jokes about his serious side, but I guess they secretly admired it – the way he seamlessly shifted from witty asides to holding them to a higher standard.
His presence filled the room, with a quiet intensity that demanded attention.
"Knowledge and heroism," Kolek continued, his voice low and resonant. "This year won't just be lessons and tests. Prepare yourselves for a true journey, if you've got what it takes."
The students exchanged eager glances, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation.
Kolek's classes were known to be both enlightening and entertaining, a rare combination in the world of Pinnacle Academy.
Before starting his lecture he did the role call of intimidation, the reason why I'm saying this is because of how scared everyone gets, the reality sets in that they will never be able to amount to what the people in this classroom would do.
With each name called one by one the reality set in deeper for those around me, They knew that they wouldn't be able to beat these guys at combat or theory either and as Kolek called my name.
"Ax-"
"Sir."
I stopped him from saying my name in order to cause no confusion amongst the others.
"Can you just call me Rel, please, if you don't mind."
The classroom looked at me with confusion they were probably thinking about who I even was but I knew he was an understanding person.
"Sure, if you would like to be addressed that way, then I have no problem doing so, Rel."
I could feel the whispers going around the room it must feel a bit cringe doing something like this but there's a good reason.
For my middle name additionally with Saint Rel people would believe I'm a descendant of a hero to whom I have no direct lineage and having the word saint in your middle name would mean you were destined for something great so I'd rather not piss off Valencia in any other way.
Fwang!
[You caused a small commotion in the classroom! 15 PPP Added.]
With the system notification, this definitely would be a good way to farm PPP so that's another good reason. Kolek finished with the rest of his role call for a total of 55 students.
As he started the lecture, I settled into my seat, I wasn't really inclined to listen since there wasn't any point in me trying to study for things and such.
I kicked back, earning myself glares from the characters, adding a touch of mystery to my character.
[Valencia looked at you in confusion 10 PPP!]
[Jan looks at you concerned 20 PPP!]
Kolek lectured on the art of planning and executing a dungeon raid for monsters. The characters from the main cast leaned forward, absorbing every word.
Jan, Louise, Camilia, Bazz, Lyra, and the others were all ears, fully engaged in the lesson.
"Remember, a successful dungeon raid requires not just individual strength but cohesive teamwork, strategic thinking, and adaptability.
You'll be facing a variety of challenges, from traps to powerful adversaries. It's your chance to apply everything you've learned so far,"
Kolek emphasized, his eyes scanning the room.
As the lecture progressed, Kolek shared insights into past dungeon raids, both legendary successes and cautionary tales of failure.
The students scribbled notes, exchanged whispers, and occasionally shared knowing glances.
Upon concluding the lecture, Kolek revealed the first assignment that would set the stage for the first advancement of the story. a dungeon raid.
"The dungeon raid will be your first assignment in the upcoming lesson. You'll be divided into groups for this mission, each facing different challenges. Consider it a test of your abilities and teamwork. Prepare yourselves for the adventure of a lifetime!"
Kolek declared, igniting a spark of anticipation in the students.
In the novel, the dungeon raid assignment what originally should've happened, was that Jan and Louise were placed in the same group, not by chance but by the unseen hand guiding the story.
Their competitive spirits were unleashed as they blitzed through the dungeon, facing monsters of a class above their classmates. To their surprise, they stumbled upon the supposed boss area, defying the norm.
Here, they had their first encounter with a Devil worshiper's servant, attempting to recruit Louise with the potential to shake the world. The worshiper, after giving the boss a special amp buff, left hastily, and Jan and Louise faced the formidable foe together. Despite their distinct fighting styles, they synergized effortlessly, defeating the boss while their comrades succumbed to the monster's overwhelming pressure.
Along those lines, after they defeat the monster Louise leaves last as the worshipper comes back to offer him once again before leaving giving him a tempting offer for the future that would lead him to become the main villain for the middle part of the story but I wasn't going to let that happen.
With Kolek finishing up the students left the lecture hall, and the air crackled with excitement. The prospect of a dungeon raid fueled both anxiety and determination among the students. Groups would be chosen in the next lesson, and the first-year arc at Pinnacle Academy was about to kick into high gear...
The first day at Pinnacle Academy had been boring for me since I didn't particularly need to take any notes for the irrelevant information that I was supposed to learn so I kinda just sat there playing games on my watch.
But with all of that in mind, I already knew what the groups were gonna be but there was no way in hell I could be in the main character group so I used this chance to switch a few things up.
"System. I'd like to use my PPP please." I asked politely
Fwang!
[Sure what would you like to use PPP for?]
"I would like to alter the groups for the dungeon assignment for my next class."
***
"Valenciaaaaa!"
Camila's exuberant call echoed through the corridor as she rushed toward Valencia, wrapping her in a warm, tight hug. Lyra followed closely, her gentle steps bringing her into the circle of their impromptu embrace.
"Hey, Valencia," Lyra greeted with a soft smile, joining the warmth of the moment.
Camila, bursting with energy, immediately launched into her next question. "What are you doing after school?"
Valencia returned the hug, her expression thoughtful. "I'm going to see my father today."
Camila's eyes widened with excitement. "Wuhhhh, you always want to see your father. Also, why were you staring at that uhh? What's his name? Reed, the guy in class today?"
Lyra, embodying her sweet and caring nature, added, "Yeah, did he do something you didn't like?"
Valencia's demeanour shifted slightly, a fleeting moment of contemplation in her gaze. "I just don't like being surrounded by someone as weak as him."
Camila and Lyra exchanged knowing glances, familiar with Valencia's tendency. They shared an unspoken understanding of her superiority complex. Camila, with her boundless energy, often found ways to uplift Valencia, while Lyra's gentle demeanour provided a comforting presence. Instead of expressing concern, Lyra simply smiled, her sweetness acting as a balm to the occasional sharpness in Valencia's words.
"He's not on your level, Val," Camila remarked, nodding in agreement.
Valencia bid farewell to her friends, their laughter lingering in her ears as she made her way through the bustling halls of Pinnacle Academy. The golden hues of her hair shimmered under the artificial lights, and her steps carried the grace of a seasoned warrior. Her thoughts, however, were already transitioning to the familiar hum of the Instant Destination Stone.
Navigating the winding corridors, then to the outdoor courtyard area Valencia arrived at the Instant Destination Stone. Its surface hummed with latent magic, ready to transport her to her destination. With a determined look, she activated the stone, its energy enveloping her in a fleeting glow.
In an instant, the grandeur of Pinnacle Academy melted away, replaced by the familiar sight of her father's estate.
[Freya's Estate, home of the guild leader Gerrard Freya]
Valencia glided into the opulence of her family's estate, her steps echoing against the marble floors of the sprawling luxury mansion. Each footfall seemed to resonate with the elegance that permeated every corner.
High ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers cast a warm glow over marble floors that gleamed like polished silver. The walls were adorned with priceless tapestries, depicting the proud history of the Freya family.
The entrance hall greeted Valencia with its dual sweeping staircases, leading to various wings of the mansion. To the right, the grandiose dining room boasted a long, mahogany table adorned with silverware and crystal, the aroma of a freshly prepared meal lingering in the air. Beyond it, a vast library held shelves upon shelves of ancient tomes and magical scrolls. The soft rustle of pages turning and the faint scent of aged parchment filled the air, a testament to Freya's long-standing lineage of knowledge.
To the left, the drawing room beckoned with plush velvet sofas and gilded furnishings. A magnificent fireplace crackled with enchanted flames, casting a cozy warmth across the room.
"Welcome back, Valencia," a soothing voice greeted her.
Her father, a distinguished figure with Dark blonde hair and a regal presence, emerged from the estate. His eyes, mirroring hers in colour, held both warmth and wisdom.
"Father," Valencia acknowledged with a respectful nod, a subtle warmth softening her usually composed expression.
"Valencia, my dear, join me." he beckoned, gesturing to a chair opposite him.
As they sat down at the heart of the estate, her father inquired, "How was your day at the academy?"
"Routine," she replied, Upon reaching the heart of the estate, she couldn't contain her curiosity. "Father, what news do we have about the subjugation of the S-Graded dungeon?"
Valencia's sharp eyes scanned the assortment of documents spread across the table, each parchment detailing the meticulous preparations of the Miracle Guild.
The Miracle Guild, once led by her father during his prime, retained its prestige under his watchful guidance.
"The Heroes Association has entrusted us with this task, and I've assembled a formidable team. The best our guild has to offer," her father explained, pride evident in his voice.
As they delved into the strategic details of the subjugation, Valencia couldn't help but marvel at her father's tactical acumen. A glimmer of pride reflected in her eyes as she absorbed each calculated move discussed.
The Miracle Guild's reputation rested on the shoulders of its members, and Valencia keenly felt the weight of her familial legacy.
"Father, do you believe our guild's team is prepared for the challenges within the S-Graded dungeon?" Valencia asked, a mix of concern and determination in her gaze.
He met her eyes with a reassuring nod. "Our preparations have been meticulous. we won't lose no matter the cause," he had a reassuring kind smile on his face that put Valencia at ease.
Rising up from her seat her father asked her where she was going. "I'm going to train." she gave a genuine smile straight back to her father.
_____________
Authors Notes:
- Gerrard Freya is the full name of Valencia's father, and he holds the leadership position in The Miracles Guild, the number one guild in the world. ( •̀ - •́ )
- Valencia appreciates spending time in her dorm, but due to concerns about her father's mental health, she occasionally visits home, even staying overnight.
- The trio, consisting of Valencia, Camilia, and Lyra, has known each other since childhood. Their families, initially close, have evolved into family friends over the years. ( • ̀ω•́ )✧
