Chapter 22: First Day

Sebastian's fleeting connection with his seniors left him grateful, especially for the generosity they showed in sharing their delightful treats. The sense of mutual warmth within the group became evident as they exchanged not only pleasantries but also a taste of their daily indulgences.

Sebastian found himself thankful not just for the food but also for the sense of inclusion that this impromptu sharing created. As he savored the unique flavors, Sebastian observed a distinct aspect of the NCP-acquired foods—they carried positive effects on his body.

The connection between nourishment and magical well-being hinted at the intricacies awaiting exploration. With gratitude lingering in his thoughts, Sebastian continued his exploration of the school grounds. The institution, bathed in the gentle glow of arcane orb lights, exuded an otherworldly ambiance. While the architectural design might appear straightforward, the true charm of the place revealed itself in the form of towering trees. These arboreal giants, planted and nurtured by adept plant-type arcane users, not only added aesthetic appeal but also reflected the harmonious coexistence of magic and nature within the school's boundaries. Each tree stood as a testament to the unique contributions of different arcane users, turning the school into a living mosaic of magic and botanical beauty.

Two hours later, Sebastian returned to his dorm to prepare himself. During that brief interval, the young boy enjoyed wandering, captivated by the surroundings.

As the sun began to make its ascent, he came back and noticed that Darwin was still deeply asleep. Deciding to wake him up while getting dressed, Sebastian playfully nudged him.

"Win-win, wake up; it's already noon!"

Sebastian shook Darwin to rouse him more quickly. However, who would have thought that Darwin was in such a deep sleep? Despite Sebastian's persistent attempts to wake him up, Darwin remained sound asleep.

"Just 30 minutes left; classes are about to start. Get ready," Sebastian said with concern.

*** 

The total number of students this year at Whitewood is divided into 5 sections, with 200 students in total. Each section comprises 40 individuals.

The student council gathered the Whitewood natives to assess the potential speed of their progress.

It was also agreed that the entire class would serve as an experimental group due to the anomaly in the awakening ceremony. Comparing them to outsiders, they stood out due to their elevated levels of arcane power.

"Who will serve as your class monitor?" Jared asked the students as he was assigned to be their temporary instructor.

"Teacher, Sebastian." They all pointed to Sebastian in unison after Jared's inquiry.

"Call me Senior Brother. Our instructors are on the main campus, so strive to meet them," Jared urged those who referred to him as a teacher.

On the other hand, Debi wasn't surprised to see all hands pointing to Sebastian as their leader. She had noticed how the students trusted him since she first saw them.

Another reason was that, despite Darwin and Izy showing a more promising future of becoming strong arcanists, Sebastian displayed a more mature mindset.

 "Commencing from this day forth, Sebastian Reign, you shall assume the esteemed position of the class monitor for the Nexus Experimental Class over the forthcoming triumvirate of years. It is imperative upon you to meticulously oversee and scrutinize the well-being and comportment of your fellow classmates.

Every action and gesture executed by the entire cohort shall undergo the discerning evaluation of our meticulous observers. In the eventuality that the collective performance garners outstanding assessments on a monthly basis, an incremental boon of 5 additional points shall be bestowed upon each student's NCP."

At the utterance of the term "additional bonus," an effervescent wave of exhilaration surged through the entire assembly of scholars. Subsequent to their excursion to the exchange center on the preceding day, revelations unfolded, enlightening them about the substantial equivalence of each NCP to a coveted item. Exempli gratia, a soul citrine, when ingested, augments the spiritual and soul-based arcane attributes. This denotes that an abundant possession of these citrines permits the unrestricted harnessing of arcane power.

It is noteworthy that a singular soul citrine commands a valuation of 3 NCP. In the scenario wherein each member of the student body attains the laudable status of excellence, it culminates in the equitable exchange for a solitary fruit, leaving an additional surplus of 2 points yet untapped."

"Silence!" The children promptly ceased their chatter at Jared's authoritative call, and he proceeded to commence the inaugural lecture.

"Let's embark on our intellectual journey with the first inquiry. However, prior to delving into academic pursuits, let us extend our courteous adieu to Senior Sister Debi as she embarks on her temporary departure. Class monitor!" Jared fixed his gaze on Sebastian, and a tacit understanding appeared to transpire between them.

Sebastian rose gracefully, exemplifying a posture of authority. "Nexus Experimental Class, rise and bestow your respect."

In synchronized harmony, the children elevated from their seats, offering a synchronized bow of deference.

"Good day, Senior Sister!"

"Stand at ease," Sebastian issued his next directive.

Debi couldn't contain a warm smile at the orchestrated display of respect. She nodded appreciatively and gracefully waved farewell as she exited the scene.

"Good job, take your seats," Jared marveled at the disciplined response of the students.

The children, having momentarily paid homage to their departing senior, resumed their positions in the classroom. Little did Jared fathom that, antecedent to the arrival of the scholars from Whitewood Village, a consensus among parents had already anointed Sebastian as the designated leader. Their disciplined demonstration of respect was not merely a spontaneous gesture but a rehearsed ritual.

"Now, let us embark on the intellectual voyage with questions." Jared's segue into academia was poised and deliberate, setting the tone for the forthcoming discussion. The air in the room became charged with anticipation as the students attentively awaited the opening query.

"Do you have any conception of the immense expanse of the world we inhabit? Are you also acquainted with the genesis of Arcane Energy? Do you possess any knowledge of who instigated the inception of this world? Anyone from the class? Regardless of which aspect of the inquiry you choose to address, do not hesitate to venture an answer, as this is merely a commencement. It is an introduction to discern in the forthcoming days whether your notions align with the unfolding realities or perhaps are more aptly termed 'predictions.'"

Jared cast his eyes around the room, gauging whether anyone would summon the courage to respond to his meticulously prepared pre-assessment. The first to rise to the occasion was Sebastian.

"The class monitor, providing an exemplary instance."

In that acknowledgment, a subtle air of approval permeated the room, recognizing Sebastian's courage as an embodiment of the spirit Jared hoped to instill. The atmosphere now crackled with intellectual anticipation, the questions poised to unravel the mysteries of their world, to unveil the origins of Arcane Energy, and to trace the very inception of their existence.

This moment marked not only an academic inquiry but the initiation of a collective journey into the realms of knowledge. Each response, regardless of accuracy, became a compass needle guiding them through the uncharted territories of understanding. The exchange of ideas wasn't merely an academic exercise; it was an invitation to explore the depths of their imaginations and, in doing so, unravel the enigmas that enveloped their reality.