The Dorms

The screen halted once more, prompting a discussion among them. "I still remember that day when the principal let out his aura, and I flinched," said Alexa, her voice tinged with vulnerability. The others nodded in agreement, recalling the moment vividly. However, it was Alicia's observation that intrigued them the most.

"How strong is their will power to not flinch?" Alicia pondered aloud. "Kael seems accustomed to facing challenges without wavering, given his extensive travels and encounters. But Robert, the enigmatic general of the -((&&*(&%(&%&... ugh, it happened again." She paused, frustrated by the interruption. "What interests me is that he didn't flinch. What experiences have made Robert so unyielding? We don't know," she concluded, her question hanging in the air.

As the other three girls delved deeper into discussion, dissecting the mystery surrounding Robert's resilience, the ten-minute pause concluded, and the screen flickered back to life.

After the ceremony ended, they proceeded to their assigned dormitory. At the booth, they received their room key and directions. Kael, being the first to ask, bid farewell to Robert and set off to find his room. He discovered it on the second floor, designated for boys. Upon entering, he found it spacious, with two beds, a kitchen, two restrooms, and a living room – perfect for a dorm. As Kael unpacked, the door unexpectedly opened, revealing Robert. Their surprise turned into delight when they realized they were roommates, sparing them the need for further arrangements and cementing their camaraderie.

As they unpacked and shared stories, Kael couldn't help but ask Robert why he hadn't flinched at the principal's aura. Confidently, Robert explained that his mother's sternness and his childhood battles against monsters outside his village had toughened him, giving him a resilient spirit. Kael nodded in agreement, sharing his own experiences of travel and training.

As the day waned, they adorned their room with personal touches – books on shelves, food in the kitchen, and clothes in their respective cabinets. As they prepared for bed, they chatted, but soon Robert drifted off to sleep. Kael, gazing at the moon, mused that the academy would indeed be interesting before succumbing to slumber.

When Kael woke up early in the morning, he roused Robert to join him for exercise. After a refreshing shower and a hearty breakfast, they made their way to the school's training area, their eyes lighting up with delight at its vastness. Exploring the grounds, they couldn't help but feel excited about the possibilities it offered.

Once they began training and sparring, Kael's superior power, speed, experience, and swordsmanship quickly became evident as he emerged victorious. However, Robert proved himself to be no slouch, showcasing his strength despite lacking Kael's level of experience and finesse with the sword.

Returning to their dormitory to clean up, they were surprised to find a package waiting for them outside their door – their academy uniforms. Excitedly, they washed up, ate, and donned their new attire, which fit them perfectly.

Relaxing in the living room, they passed the time chatting and eagerly anticipating the start of their academy journey. When the alarm sounded, signaling the beginning of their classes, they quickly gathered their belongings and headed off to their respective academy rooms, eager to meet their instructors and begin their education.