As soon as Sam entered the classroom, a swarm of students surrounded him, their curiosity overflowing like an unleashed river.
"Is it true the goddess sent a letter for you?""Were you really living alone in the forest?""You were amazing during the duel—what magic was that?"
Before he could answer a single question, a commanding voice cut through the noise.
"Enough! Everyone, take your seats this instant!"
The room froze.
The voice belonged to Instructor James Mahail, known for his stern demeanor and sharp teaching methods. He taught Mana Theory, a foundational subject at Mystoria Academy.
Without a second thought, the students scrambled back to their seats.
Sam began walking toward the seat assigned to him during roll call when James called out again.
"Samuel Wildheart, come here."
He paused, then stepped forward. "Yes, Instructor?"
James eyed him with a neutral expression. "Samuel, you are going to serve as the Class Representative of 1-A from today onward."
Sam blinked. "Sir… why me? Shouldn't that be decided by a class vote?"
The instructor smirked slightly. "Yes, but let's be honest—these kids would've voted for you regardless. Saves time."
The class chuckled in agreement. James continued, "So it's decided."
Sam nodded. "Understood. I'll do my best."
After the decision, the introduction round began. As class representative, Sam went first.
He stood up and addressed the class."My name is Samuel Wildheart. I'm glad to be here, among so many talented people. I hope we'll have a good year together. Please take care of me."
The class responded warmly.
"Nice!""So polite…""He really doesn't act like a commoner."
The introductions continued one by one. Sam's class, 1-A, was a prestigious one—composed mostly of elite nobles and high-tier prodigies. The class had fewer lectures to give students more time for advanced research, training, or missions. Sam, being the only non-noble, stood out immediately.
After James wrapped up his lecture by going over the semester's syllabus, the students began to settle into their groups.
Sam sat back down, now getting his first real look at his seatmate.
The boy had a relaxed posture, brown hair with a streak of blue, and sharp, observant eyes. He was staring at Sam with a wide grin on his face.
"…Why are you looking at me like that?" Sam asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Why shouldn't I?" the boy shot back.
Sam narrowed his eyes playfully. "Sorry. I'm not interested."
The boy's eyes widened. "W-What?! Hey! I'm not gay!"
He nearly shouted it.
The class burst into laughter.
"Quiet!" James snapped, silencing the room again.
The boy slumped in his seat, grumbling.
"Pffttt…""You really asked for that one, Mr. Special.""That was gold."
Sam smirked.
"Anyway," the boy said, still recovering from embarrassment. "Name's Jeremy Onslaught."
"I know," Sam replied dryly. "We just had introductions, remember?"
Jeremy scratched his head. "Oh… right."
"Still, nice to meet you, Jeremy."
Class soon ended, and students started filing out.
"Well, that was something." Jeremy stretched his arms.
"First day's supposed to be chill, I guess," Sam replied.
"What now?"
"I might check out the training center."
"Ooooh, now that sounds fun. Let's go."
Just as they were about to leave, a small group of girls approached their desk.
"Hey, Samuel," one of them said sweetly. "Hope we're not disturbing you."
Sam turned, locking eyes with them politely.
Selena, with soft brown hair and fair skin, led the group. Behind her stood the identical duo—Lisa and Misa—twin sisters with bright smiles and contrasting hair. Lisa had pastel-pink hair while Misa's was shimmering blonde.
Sam gave them a gentle smile. "Hey."
"Um… is there something you need?" he asked.
Misa blushed immediately. "N-No! We just…"
"We wanted to be friends," Selena finished with a look that could've melted steel. Her wide, puppy-dog eyes left Sam speechless.
He coughed lightly and muttered under his breath, "Goddess, grant me strength..."
Then smiled. "It would be my pleasure. Who wouldn't want to be friends with beautiful ladies like you?"
The girls giggled and blushed, while Jeremy dramatically rolled his eyes.
"Someone's got it easy," he muttered.
Sam chuckled and stood up. A new day had begun, and it seemed this one would bring its own set of adventures, friendships—and perhaps something more.