The morning light streamed through the windows of the academy classroom, illuminating rows of students seated in polished wooden desks.
The room was filled with subdued conversation and the occasional laughter, but the mood shifted when the door creaked open.
The professor entered, his presence commanding immediate attention.
He was tall, with silver hair neatly combed back, and wore the deep navy robes of the academy faculty.
His sharp features carried an air of authority, though his tired eyes hinted at weariness.
The students quieted as he reached the lectern at the front of the room and adjusted the stack of papers he carried.
His gaze swept over the room, lingering briefly on princess Elara, Roselyn, and Elias, who sat toward the middle.
Finally, he cleared his throat, the sound resonating in the silent hall.
"Good morning, students."
He began, his voice even but firm.
"I am Professor Marcus, and I will be your homeroom instructor temporarily.
As some of you may know, your previous professor, Caelan Draemyr, has, unfortunately, left us... and this world."
His tone was somber, and a murmur of whispers rippled through the room at the reminder of the loss.
Elias exchanged a glance with Roselyn, who sat beside him.
She said nothing, her expression calm but watchful.
On the other side of the room, Princess Elara remained silent as well, her hands neatly folded on her desk.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om
The professor waited for the murmurs to die down before continuing.
"While I will not be your permanent instructor, I have been tasked with ensuring you are prepared for the challenges ahead.
Which brings me to an important announcement about your upcoming mid-term exams."
At this, the class grew more attentive, though the air buzzed with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.
"This year's mid-term exams will be different from anything you've experienced before."
Professor Marcus said, his voice carrying a faint note of warning.
"The first years and second years will be combined for the exams."
The reaction was immediate.
A cacophony of murmurs and whispered remarks filled the room.
Students leaned toward each other, sharing their thoughts in hurried, animated tones.
"Combined with second years? That's absurd!"
One boy muttered, loud enough to draw nods from those nearby.
"We're barely learning the basics. How are we supposed to keep up with them?"
Another girl added.
Elara and Roselyn exchanged a glance, but neither spoke.
Elias leaned back in his chair, his expression neutral, though his eyes darted around the room, observing the reactions of their peers.
Professor Marcus raised a hand, and the room gradually quieted.
"Yes, I expected such a reaction.."
He said dryly.
"Allow me to clarify. The third years will not be involved, as they are focused on their final exams.
However, the purpose of combining first and second years is to test your ability to adapt and work with individuals of varying experience levels.
She was listening intently to the professor, her expression a mix of curiosity and determination
Elias couldn't help but smile faintly, though he quickly composed himself when Roselyn nudged his arm.
"You seem unusually interested..."
She whispered, raising an eyebrow.
"Just observing..."
Elias replied casually, though the glimmer of amusement in his eyes betrayed him.
Professor Marcus continued.
"During the week-long exam, you'll be evaluated on your ability to gather resources, maintain your camp, and complete objectives set by the faculty.
There will be moments where you must make difficult decisions, and your ability to adapt will determine your success."
"What about safety?"
A student asked.
"The forest isn't exactly known for being... peaceful."
"A valid concern."
The professor said with a nod.
"The Eastern Forestoart will be monitored by faculty and protective wards.
However, do not expect us to intervene unless absolutely necessary.
This is a test of your resilience and resourcefulness. You will not be coddled."
The murmurs returned, but this time they were quieter, more subdued.
The reality of the exam was beginning to sink in.
"As for further details, they will be provided on the day of the exam."
Professor Marcus concluded.
"Until then, I suggest you focus on your preparations.
Stay updated through empire
Start forming your teams, familiarize yourselves with survival tactics, and most importantly, reflect on who you can trust."
He closed the folder of papers and looked out over the class.
"That is all for now. Any questions?"
A few hands went up, and the professor addressed them one by one, clarifying details about logistics and expectations.
Elias, Elara, and Roselyn remained silent, each lost in their own thoughts.
As the class began to disperse, Elias glanced toward the girl with the chestnut-brown hair again.
She was speaking quietly with another student, her expression thoughtful.
"..."
"Let's go..."
Roselyn said, tugging on his sleeve.
"We need to talk about teams."
"Right..."
Elias replied, following her out of the classroom.
But even as they left, his mind lingered on the girl with the twin ponytails.