Meeting with the Principal

A week soon passed by, and I had already recovered.

Thankfully, my time in the hospital passed peacefully, which allowed me to sort out everything and plan.

An instructor visited me three days ago in order to check up on me and my condition.

He also gave me brief info about the curriculum and which dorm and room I was assigned to. But first, I would have to meet with the principal after returning to the academy according to the instructor.

I bet it must be because to receive my rewards.

"Take care, Adrian. Make sure to stay healthy and not get into trouble again." The healer said as we bid farewell.

Honestly, I was really thankful for him. He was a master of his work. 

After ten minutes of walking, I finally arrived at the academy. The guards let me pass easily after I showed my golden Student badge which I received from the instructor. Though they were but shocked, it must be because of the badge's color.

Because, only the Solar Tier ability students' badges are in yellow color, while the Top 3 students have golden.

Without wasting any time, I navigated through the buildings toward the Principal's office. I wanted to tour the academy but first things were first. I still have time after all. 

Upon reaching the imposing structure that housed the Principal's office, I took a moment to collect myself. 

As I knocked on the door, a stern voice granted permission to enter. The Principal, a dignified figure with graying hair and sharp eyes, looked up from his paperwork. He offered a nod of acknowledgment as I stepped into his office.

"Ah, Adrian Lighthaven. The Dark Horse who stirred quite a commotion during the entrance exam," the Principal remarked, his gaze piercing. "You've recovered, I presume?"

"Yes, Principal," I replied with a respectful bow.

The Principal's stern expression softened, and he motioned for me to take a seat. "Good. The healer's report was positive, and it seems you have a remarkable recovery speed. I don't ask why or what exactly happened since you seem to be unable to remember anything. So, let's get to the main reason for your visit – your rewards."

With that, the Principal handed me a golden ring along and a silver ring.

The Principal continued, "This silver ring contains Aether Recovery potions, healing elixirs, and a few other useful potions."

I accepted the ring, a sense of gratitude washing over me. The contents were practical, and I knew they would come in handy, especially considering the unpredictable nature of life in the Academy.

"And now, for the golden ring," the Principal said, his eyes glinting with a mysterious light. "You can check its contents after our meeting."

I nodded, intrigued by the enigmatic nature of the golden ring. The Principal leaned back in his chair, studying me with a thoughtful expression.

"And now, let's switch to the main reason why I called you." He said, his voice turning serious. 

Sigh... I knew things would have come to this.

He must have heard about me being affinityless. The same as in the novel.

"..." I gulped unconditionally under his probing gaze. 

I could sense the powerful aura he was emanating.

It was then I realized he wasn't an ordinary man but the most powerful man on the continent.

"Adrian..."

"...Yes?"

"...What do you think of my granddaughter?"

"H-huh? W-what do you mean?" I asked dumbfounded by his unexpected question.

The Principal leaned forward, his gaze unwavering. "I'm sure you've noticed my granddaughter, Aria Starlight, taking a particular interest in you."

I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, the unexpected question catching me off guard. "Sorry, Sir, but I'm sure you misunderstood something. It is true she saved me and visited me when I was unconscious and I'm grateful for that. But I believe she did all of that because of her kind nature and sincere personality."

The Principal arched an eyebrow, seemingly unconvinced by my response. "Kind nature, sincere personality? Adrian, you must understand that in the intricate world of the Academy, actions are seldom as straightforward as they appear. And Aria, my granddaughter, is not known for taking a casual interest in anyone."

"...It might be because she doesn't know about my case," I muttered. "I am sure once she learns of it, the interest you mentioned will be dissolved."

"And... isn't that the true reason why you called me here?" I asked as I looked at him in the eye. "You must already know that I am affinityless."

"Yeah, I know. Those sibling instructors told me about it." The Principal nodded casually. "But, so what?"

I was taken aback by his nonchalant response. His indifference to my lack of affinity was unexpected, especially considering the stigma that usually accompanied such a condition.

The Principal continued, "Affinity or no affinity, everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. The Academy values diversity and equality, and not every student excels in the same areas but will be given the same opportunities. And your uniqueness may become an asset in ways you can't foresee. For example... your ability."

"..."

"You can see the future using your ability, right?"

"..."

"I'll take that as a yes. And don't worry, the room is soundproof, so nobody can hear our conversation."

"...How did you know?" I asked, my voice filled with suspicion.

The Principal chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Haha, my guess was correct then. You really can see the future. Amazing ability indeed."

Damn... So, he was only guessing, huh? And I fell for his trap. And easily too. Darn it.

"And as for how I came to this conclusion, it's because of you."

"Me?" I asked confused.

"Yes, you. More precisely your actions during the exam. You got a perfect score on the written exam. Either you are a genius or you knew what questions would be asked. And the same thing goes for the practical exam and special exam...."