The First Day

"Be quiet, everyone!"

The teacher cleared his throat and tapped a piece of chalk against the table. The entire class turned their attention to him, curiosity and anticipation evident in their eyes. What subject would he address today?

"All of you may have passed the first test," the teacher began, his voice firm and commanding, "but that doesn't mean there's no chance of you being kicked out of school."

The room fell silent as the weight of his words sank in. The students shifted uncomfortably in their seats, some glancing nervously at one another.

"The Royal Academy is not just a place of learning," the teacher continued, pacing back and forth in front of the class. "It is a place where potential is realized and excellence is demanded. Today, we will delve into one of the most fundamental aspects of your education here: the fundamentals of magic."

A few students straightened up, their interest piqued. Levin, sitting near the back, leaned forward slightly, eager to absorb every word.

"Magic," the teacher said, his voice lowering as if sharing a great secret, "is the essence of our world. It flows through everything, binds us together, and allows us to perform feats that would otherwise be impossible."

He picked up a piece of chalk and began to draw on the blackboard, sketching out complex symbols and diagrams. "To master magic, one must understand its basic components: mana, incantations, and focus."

The teacher pointed to a large circle he had drawn. "Mana is the raw energy that powers all magical spells. It exists within each of you and can be drawn from the world around you. However, mana on its own is wild and uncontrollable. That's where incantations come in."

He added intricate lines and symbols inside the circle. "Incantations are the words or gestures used to shape and control mana. They act as a conduit, directing the flow of energy to produce the desired effect. Think of them as the language of magic."

The students watched intently, some scribbling notes, others simply mesmerized by the unfolding lesson.

"But even with mana and incantations," the teacher said, turning to face the class, "without focus, your spells will fail. Focus is the ability to channel your willpower and concentrate on the task at hand. It requires discipline and practice."

Levin nodded to himself. This is what Master Haldor meant by discipline.

"Now," the teacher continued, "let's put this knowledge to the test. Each of you will attempt to channel mana and perform a basic light spell. The incantation is simple: 'Lux.' This will create a small orb of light."

The room buzzed with excitement as the students prepared to try their hand at magic. Levin closed his eyes, feeling for the mana within himself. He took a deep breath, recalling the teacher's words about focus and discipline. He visualized the flow of energy, the incantation, and the orb of light he wanted to create.

"Lux," Levin whispered, extending his hand.

At first, nothing happened. He frowned, concentrating harder. He could feel the mana within him, but it was slippery, difficult to grasp. He tried again, this time with more determination.

"Lux."

A faint glow appeared in his palm, flickering like a candle in the wind. Levin's heart raced with excitement. He focused harder, willing the light to grow steadier and brighter.

The teacher walked among the students, observing their progress. Some had managed to produce a small light, while others struggled to channel their mana effectively. He stopped by Levin, who now held a stable, glowing orb in his hand.

"Well done, Levin," the teacher said, a hint of approval in his voice. "Remember, mastering magic is a journey. Today, you have taken your first step."

Levin smiled, feeling a surge of pride. He knew the path ahead was long and challenging, but he was ready to face it. He glanced around the room, seeing the determination on his classmates' faces. They were all on this journey together, each striving to master the fundamentals of magic and unlock their true potential.

As the class continued practicing their light spells, the teacher's words echoed in Levin's mind. Mana, incantations, and focus. These were the keys to unlocking the mysteries of magic. With patience, perseverance, and discipline, he knew he could achieve great things.

The lesson concluded, and the students filed out of the classroom, buzzing with newfound knowledge and excitement. Levin lingered for a moment, absorbing the atmosphere of the academy. This was where his journey truly began, and he was determined to make the most of it.

He stepped outside, the cool breeze rustling his hair, and looked up at the clear blue sky. The Royal Academy loomed before him, filled with endless possibilities and challenges. Levin clenched his fist, feeling the residual warmth of the light orb he had created.

I will master this, he thought with resolve. One step at a time.

"Aren't you the one who managed to beat Reia?" A soft female voice asked.

Levin turned around and found himself staring into the emerald-green eyes of a girl so beautiful it was almost criminal. She, like Levin, wore the red school uniform of the Royal Academy.

She is gorgeous!

Levin scratched the back of his head, trying to hide his nerves, and smiled warmly. "I'm sorry, but do we know each other?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.

The girl shook her head, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "No, I don't think so. I'm Pauline, from the Magic Class." She bowed slightly, her eyes never leaving his.

"I'm Levin," he replied, chuckling awkwardly.

"Yes, I know," Pauline said, joining in his laughter.

The two stood there for a moment, the bustling academy grounds around them fading into the background. Levin felt an odd sense of calm wash over him as he looked at Pauline. It was as if her presence alone could ease the stress of the rigorous training and challenges he'd been facing.

"So," Levin began, trying to keep the conversation going, "what brings you here today, Pauline?"

She tilted her head slightly, her smile widening. "I was curious to meet the person everyone has been talking about. Beating Reia is no small feat. Plus, I wanted to congratulate you in person."

Levin felt his cheeks flush slightly. "Thank you. It was tough, but I guess I got lucky."

Pauline shook her head. "It wasn't just luck, Levin. I've seen you train. You're dedicated and hardworking. That's something to be proud of."

Levin's heart warmed at her words. "I appreciate that, Pauline. So, you're in the Magic Class? How is it going?"

"It's challenging but exciting," she replied, her eyes lighting up. "There's so much to learn and explore. Magic is fascinating, and our teacher is very knowledgeable."

Levin nodded. "I can imagine. Mastering magic must be incredibly rewarding."

"It is," Pauline agreed. "But it also requires a lot of discipline and practice, much like your sword training."

"True," Levin said. "Sometimes it feels overwhelming, but knowing that others are going through similar struggles helps."

Pauline's expression softened. "That's exactly how I feel. It's comforting to know we're not alone in this."

They walked together, the conversation flowing naturally. Levin found himself genuinely enjoying Pauline's company. She was intelligent, kind, and had a way of making him feel at ease.

"Do you have any plans for the weekend?" Pauline asked as they reached a bench and sat down.

Levin shrugged. "Just more training, I suppose. What about you?"

"I'm thinking of exploring the gardens," she said. "I've heard they're beautiful this time of year. Would you like to join me?"

Levin's heart skipped a beat. "I'd love to," he replied, trying to keep his excitement in check.

"Great!" Pauline exclaimed, her smile brightening. "It's a date then."

Levin couldn't help but smile back. "Yeah, it's a date."

They continued talking, sharing stories and laughter, the bond between them growing stronger with each passing moment. For the first time in a long while, Levin felt truly content. The challenges of the academy seemed a little less daunting with someone like Pauline by his side.

Levin watched Pauline walk away, her figure disappearing into the crowd of students. He leaned back on the bench, a thoughtful expression on his face.

Today had been unexpected, to say the least. He hadn't anticipated meeting someone like Pauline, someone who could make him feel so comfortable and understood in such a short time. Her words echoed in his mind, reminding him of the importance of discipline, hard work, and the camaraderie that made this journey more bearable.

He closed his eyes for a moment, reflecting on the day's events. Beating Reia had been a significant achievement, but it was the conversation with Pauline that truly stood out. Her kindness and genuine interest had touched him in a way he hadn't experienced since arriving at the academy.

I learned something important today.

He thought. It's not just about the strength of the body or the sharpness of the blade. It's also about the connections we make, the people who support us, and the encouragement we give each other.

A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. Maybe, just maybe, he was beginning to understand what it truly meant to be strong.

I'll keep pushing myself !

He resolved silently. Not just for my parents or Master Haldor, but for the friends I make along the way. And maybe, one day, I'll be able to give back the same support and encouragement that Pauline gave me today.

With that thought, Levin stood up, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. The path ahead was still filled with challenges, but he was ready to face them. After all, he wasn't alone anymore.