章 38: 38 - Class Leader!

Class Leader!

Jon was jolted awake by the sound of the system alarm echoing in his mind. He got up, the events of the previous night still weighing on his thoughts. 'What did that kiss really mean?' he wondered. He couldn't believe it was love; after all, they had known each other for just a day. Could it be just a fling from a wealthy, curious girl? He shook his head, reminding himself he had classes to attend.

After a quick shower, he donned his academy uniform. The high-collared, white silk shirt contrasted perfectly with the navy-blue coat, accented by golden details that shimmered in the morning light. He slipped into his black leather boots and draped his cape over his shoulders. Taking one last look in the mirror, he noticed how the uniform complemented his light-blue hair—a coincidence that somehow enriched his appearance.

Jon headed toward the cafeteria, sensing a palpable shift in the atmosphere compared to the first day. The once jovial and enthusiastic faces had given way to more contemplative expressions. 'The first test must have served as a brutal wake-up call,' he thought, picking up on the seriousness now weighing on the students. Suddenly, he realized he only saw first-year students. Checking the academy's map on his system, he found that each academic year was allocated to a different dimension. 'That explains the absence of upperclassmen,' he mused.

As he entered the cafeteria, Nortis and Elija called out to him. "Jon, over here, man!" Nortis waved, his smile stretching from ear to ear.

Joining them, Jon grabbed a quick meal—a hearty stew and freshly baked bread. But as he ate, his eyes kept drifting to a distant table where Elara, Gwen, and Serena were engrossed in conversation. The memory of the awkward yet intense kiss with Elara the night before flashed through his mind, prompting him to shake his head as if trying to scatter the thought.

Nortis and Elija, ever observant, noticed his momentary lapse. "You alright, man? You seem a bit distant," Elija inquired, a sly smile forming on his face.

Caught off guard, Jon scrambled for an excuse. "Ah, just thinking about today's classes. The real first day, right?"

Both nodded, although their eyes said, 'Nice try, but we're not buying it.' Jon quickly finished his meal, thanking them for the company. "I've got to go. Classes await," he said, standing up.

"Ah, right. We're heading out too," Nortis chimed in, glancing at Elija. "Let's go together then."

Jon felt a slight discomfort but masked it with a smile. "Sure, let's go."

The three left the cafeteria together, but Jon couldn't shake the feeling that he was being read like an open book. His flimsy excuses and subject changes only seemed to confirm Nortis and Elija's unspoken suspicions.

As they walked to the classroom, Jon realized that despite the initial discomfort, there was something comforting about having Nortis and Elija around. Maybe it was the budding camaraderie, or perhaps the simple notion that he wasn't alone in his uncertainties. A goofy smile formed on his lips. 'It's not so bad having classmates around,' he thought, feeling a bit lighter as they entered the classroom.

Jon had already taken his seat, adjusting to the classroom atmosphere, when the door opened and Seraphine walked in. She carried an aura of authority that made every student sit up straight. "Good morning, class," she began, her eyes sweeping the room before landing on Jon. "Jon, please come up here."

With a mix of curiosity and apprehension, Jon stood and walked to the front of the room. Seraphine handed him a gleaming insignia. "Congratulations, you are the new class leader," she announced, explaining that leadership would be re-evaluated every three months during the academy's tests. "Maintaining leadership throughout the academic year grants a point bonus. Additionally, the class leader receives a 20% discount throughout the academy, whether on practical lessons, items, products, equipment, or skill books."

Before Jon could fully absorb the information, Lysander, a young man emanating an aura of rivalry, stood up. "With all due respect, Professor, what merit was used to choose this 'half-elf'? Gwen, Elara, Serena, Nortis, and Elija also contributed. I'd prefer someone like Gwen, who has undeniable talent, as class leader."

Seraphine looked at Lysander, her eyes flashing for a moment. "The choice was based on test performance. Everyone except Jon was defeated. He was the only one who killed the dungeon boss and completed the hidden mission." The room fell into an awkward silence, and Lysander sat down, clearly uncomfortable.

"Everyone, please take your seats," Seraphine instructed, shifting the focus to the official start of the lesson. She began discussing the history of Aeloria, touching on specific significant events. "The War of 200 was a milestone, as it resulted in the unification of all races in Aeloria, ending racially segregated kingdoms and ushering in the era of peace we live in today…"

Jon held the leader's insignia in his hand, feeling the cold metal against his skin. 'Being a leader is not just a title; it's an open door to opportunities,' he thought. Looking around the room, his eyes met those of his classmates, each one a promise of potential. 'We're all here competing for the same resources. If an opportunity arises, I'll seize it,' he internally decided.

He carefully pocketed the insignia, feeling a newfound determination ignite within him. 'This is more than a competition; this is my life now. And I'm going to make it count.'