༺ Noah's POV ༻
The morning sunlight seeped through the large windows of my dorm, painting everything in an obnoxious golden hue that I didn't care for.
My maid, Mari, stood silently by the wardrobe, holding up a freshly pressed ceremonial uniform.
She was annoyingly efficient, her movements almost mechanical, as if she were merely going through the motions.
"Is that what you call a properly pressed uniform?"
I snapped, gesturing lazily at the garment.
Her hands trembled slightly as she adjusted it, her head bowed.
"I-I'll fix it immediately, Young Master."
She stammered, retreating toward the ironing table with haste.
"Of course you will."
I replied coldly, crossing my legs as I lounged in the ornate armchair.
"How else do you expect me to stand before the academy like this?
Sloppiness isn't a luxury someone of my rank can afford."
Internally, I could almost hear the system chiming, tallying up the
False Evil Points
I had gained.
It was a small price for a necessary evil.
As Mari returned with the fixed uniform, I scrutinized it with exaggerated precision, finding a non-existent crease to criticize.
"Do you take pride in mediocrity, Mari?"
I drawled, smirking as I watched her flinch.
"No, Young Master..."
She whispered, clutching the hem of her apron tightly.
"Then act like it."
I rose, snatching the uniform from her and donning it.
My reflection in the mirror screamed pristine elegance—sharp, commanding, and utterly detestable, exactly as it should be.
The academy had sent me a letter earlier that week, informing me of my "honor" as the top second-year student to address the incoming first-years at the entrance ceremony.
Ravenwood Academy of Magic
To: Noah Ashbourne
Top Student, Second Year
Dear Mr. Ashbourne,
We are writing to you in recognition of your continued excellence as the top-ranked student of the second-year cohort. Your achievements serve as an inspiration and set a standard for all students at Ravenwood Academy.
In light of the upcoming academic year, we kindly request you to deliver a brief speech to the incoming first-year students during the Second-Year Opener Ceremony. The speech should aim to welcome them, share your insights and experiences as a student of Ravenwood, and encourage them as they begin their journey at the academy.
We trust your capability to represent the second-year class with the same poise and distinction you have displayed throughout your time here. Please prepare a speech lasting approximately 5–7 minutes.
Additionally, we are pleased to invite you to the
Good.
Let them hate me.
It was fuel for the machine.
"Welcome to Ravenwood Academy."
I began, my voice sharp and commanding.
"I am Noah Ashbourne, top student of the second-year class.
You've likely heard of me—or if you haven't, you will soon enough."
The room shifted uncomfortably, whispers passing between the students.
Perfect.
"Many of you will work tirelessly, dreaming of reaching the top, of surpassing me..."
I continued, letting a smirk tug at the corner of my lips.
"I commend your ambition, but let me make one thing abundantly clear...
I am not someone you can surpass."
A ripple of murmurs spread through the crowd.
The professors exchanged wary glances, but none interrupted.
My status as an Ashbourne granted me certain liberties.
"Your time here will be challenging.
Some of you will thrive.
Others will crumble under the weight of your inadequacies.
The strong will rise, and the weak... well, they will find their place beneath the boots of their betters."
The detestation in their eyes was almost tangible.
I could feel my
False Evil Points
ticking upward, the system rewarding my every word.
"But," I said, softening my tone ever so slightly.
"You are here because you have potential. Do not waste it.
Prove yourselves worthy of the Ravenwood name, if you can.
Good luck...you'll need it."
I stepped down amidst a mix of muted claps and glaring stares.
Inside, I cringed at my own performance.
The arrogance, the sheer pomp—it was all part of the act, but it didn't make it any less grating.
Returning to my seat, I felt a bead of sweat trickle down my temple.
This year was going to be a long one.
Not only did I have to maintain my carefully constructed persona, but I also had to contend with the growing list of enemies I was accumulating.
And now, with the first-years thrown into the mix, the stakes had never been higher.
As the ceremony continued, I stared at the floor, my mind churning.