Selene's quiet voice cut in, smooth as silk, "Officially, yes. House Ravenheart has not produced a notable mage or knight in decades." She glanced sidelong in my direction, not bothering to be subtle about observing me. I met her eyes for a brief second. Her irises were a cool gray, almost silver—an interesting color. Unfazed, Selene continued, "But records can be incomplete. It's possible this Asmo is simply a hidden weapon they've been keeping secret."
Damien tapped a finger on his book, speaking thoughtfully. "The practical exams were strictly monitored. I doubt anyone could cheat with the proctors watching. And I saw his duel in the final trial." He gave a small shrug. "Asmo defeated multiple training dummies in less than a minute. That was skill, not trickery."
I recall that duel as well. I had dispatched them swiftly—perhaps too swiftly—using dark aura tendrils. It was a calculated move using knowledge I had (thanks to either the system's analysis or my prior memories). The watching students and examiners were stunned. I must have appeared either incredibly efficient or monstrously cold, since I ended the test right when it started.
Neria, who had been quietly listening to her companions, finally spoke up. "He must have trained very hard to achieve such skills. If he earned the top rank, then we should acknowledge it." Her voice was calm and measured, carrying a gentle reproof. She looked at Leon with her soft golden-brown eyes. "Leon, you'll have plenty of chances to prove yourself in the future. Don't dwell on this too much, okay?"
Leon sighed and gave a reluctant nod. "You're right, Neria… I just… it caught me by surprise." He managed a tight smile, clearly trying to regain his usual confident demeanor. "I won't take it lightly next time."
I found myself almost smiling at Neria's tactful diplomacy. She had a way of easing tension, it seemed. As expected of a future Saintess, I mused. While others doubted me, she chose a kinder interpretation. It was strange to receive a bit of praise rather than suspicion from someone here. Not that I could let it affect my behavior—I still needed to keep my distance.
I finished my simple breakfast quietly, acting oblivious to their conversation. But inwardly, I continued to analyze. In this short span, I'd learned something valuable about each of them:
Leon wears his heart on his sleeve—prideful but honest, and not the type to scheme. He will challenge me head-on sooner or later.
Fiona is fiercely loyal, quick to defend friends and voice her opinions. Likely hot-headed.
Damien is observant and rational, preferring facts over rumors. He could become an ally or a dangerous investigator of my secrets.
Selene is perceptive and keeps her thoughts guarded. I should be careful; she might sniff out inconsistencies.
Neria values harmony and fairness, a genuinely good person. Her empathy could be a bridge between me and the group someday—or a vulnerability if someone tries to use her kindness.
As I mulled over these impressions, a bell chimed loudly from the hall's entrance. Everyone quieted. The Academy's Headmaster, an imposing white-bearded man in deep blue robes, had stepped up onto a small stage at the end of the dining hall. Professors flanked him. It was time for the formal welcome speech and class assignments.
"Students, attention please!" the Headmaster's voice boomed, amplified by a minor wind magic so that it reached every corner of the hall. Conversations died down and all eyes turned forward. "Welcome, new entrants, to Aurelia Academy, the greatest in the human domain. You have all proven yourselves exceptional to earn a place here. Now, your journey truly begins—one of honing your talents to serve the kingdom"
A polite round of applause followed his opening lines. I straightened in my seat, listening intently but also keeping peripheral awareness of my five targets. Leon and the others were focused on the Headmaster now.
The speech covered the academy's proud history, expectations of conduct, and the bright future awaiting those who excel. Fairly standard fare. I found my mind wandering briefly. This world's peace hangs on these youths' growth—the Headmaster likely had no idea how literally true that was. If the events I expect to come to pass do occur (demon invasions? war? calamities—there are always some), these five will be at the forefront. And I... I'll be the unseen sixth, if all goes well, making sure they survive and triumph.
"—and now, I will announce the top performers of the entrance exam," the Headmaster's words snapped me back to the present. He held up a scroll. "These individuals have earned the highest honors and will be recognized for their excellence."
A ripple of anticipation passed through the hall. This was the moment many first-years waited for: the acknowledgement of the strongest newcomers. I saw Leon sit up a bit straighter, jaw set. Neria folded her hands in her lap, looking composed but attentive. A few tables over, I noticed some other students fidget—likely those who thought they had a chance at the top rankings.
"In fifth place: Selene Nightshade of House Nightshade," the Headmaster announced. Polite clapping followed as Selene's name was called. Selene herself gave a slight nod, her face betraying little emotion.
"In fourth place: Fiona Grimstone of House Grimstone." Fiona grinned and gave a thumbs-up to Leon, who patted her on the shoulder. She basked in the applause.
"In third place: Damien Allcrest of House Allcrest." Damien smiled quietly as the clapping came for him, ever composed, though I saw a glint of pride in his eyes.
The Headmaster continued, "In second place: Leon Drakos of House Drakos." Leon took a deep breath and managed a gracious smile as the hall applauded warmly—he was clearly popular and many had expected him there. He gave a polite bow of his head toward the stage.
"And finally, in first place…"