...
The start of the new school year brought a mix of excitement and nerves throughout the academy. Si-Woo, now a level 2 senior, stood beside Ha-Yoon, Mai, and Sol as they attended the assembly. The large gathering hall buzzed with energy as students of different levels listened to speeches from the faculty. The student advisor took the stage, outlining expectations for the year, key academic focuses, and new regulations.
When the assembly concluded, Si-Woo, Ha-Yoon, and Mai exchanged brief, encouraging words before heading to their respective sections of the academy. As they parted ways, Si-Woo couldn’t help but feel a twinge of isolation. His friends were moving up to their level 3 senior classes, while he remained a level 2 senior, determined to push himself harder.
Walking into his classroom, Si-Woo followed the student advisor's guidance from the assembly. The room was designed with a thoughtful layout—elevated seats arranged in an arc to give everyone a clear view of the teacher. He chose a seat in the furthest corner, offering a good vantage point to observe without drawing too much attention.
In his first class of the day, Intermediate Hoken Language Arts, Si-Woo took in the conversations around him. Nearby students spoke in hushed tones about troubling news from other continents. “The wars in the Eastern Isles keep spreading,” one whispered. “They say some regions are wielding terrifying new magics.”
“Did you hear?” another chimed in. “The headmaster of the Economic Family has banned anyone from leaving Ondur to travel to other regions. Too risky with everything happening.”
A chill ran down Si-Woo’s spine. The outside world was growing increasingly dangerous and restrictive. The weight of it pressed on his shoulders, mingling with the expectations he already faced as a level 2 senior. He glanced at the empty seats that would have held Ha-Yoon, Mai, or even Sol if they were in the same class. Their separation from classes was inevitable, but it made the new year feel different, more isolating.
The gravity of their words lingered with Si-Woo. The world beyond the academy’s walls was in turmoil, and the restrictions within Ondur reflected a growing sense of danger. As the instructor entered the room, silencing the chatter, Si-Woo straightened in his seat, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. He was determined to grow stronger, knowing this year would test him both within the classroom and beyond.
As Si-Woo settled into his seat, his thoughts drifted to faraway places. Would he ever have the chance to leave Ondur and explore other regions beyond its borders? The restrictions made the possibility seem distant, but he couldn't help but dream of new horizons. His mind wandered further back to the summer—a time filled with joy and laughter. He fondly recalled celebrating his 10th birthday, followed by Ha-Yoon's 7th. Together with Mai, they shared unforgettable moments that brought warmth and lightness to the challenges they faced.
His reflections were cut short by a voice that commanded the room's attention. Standing before the class was a heavier woman with blond hair, her locks neatly pinned up, and cream-colored skin that complemented her warm smile. The teacher's presence was both kind and authoritative as she addressed the students. “Welcome, level 2 seniors,” she began, her voice carrying a mixture of pride and encouragement. “You should be proud of reaching this stage. With seniority comes new responsibilities and greater challenges.”
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Si-Woo nodded along, feeling the weight of her words and the anticipation bubbling within him. He was determined to rise to the expectations that came with this new level. As he listened, his mind briefly flickered to thoughts of Nurse Lila, who had often tended to his injuries from encounters with Sol. With Sol now on the other side of the academy in the level 3 section, Si-Woo hoped his visits to the nurse’s office would become less frequent—though he couldn’t shake the feeling that life had a way of bringing new tests.
The teacher continued, her smile warm yet purposeful. “Before we start today’s lesson, here’s a friendly reminder,” she said. “In three months, those taking the pre-midterm placement test should study diligently and give it everything you have. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
Her words hung in the air, resonating deeply with Si-Woo. He clenched his fist in resolve. Three months to prove himself. Three months to push his limits. The journey ahead would be grueling, but he was ready to face it head-on, driven by ambition, determination, and the desire to reach the heights his heart longed for.
Si-Woo took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the teacher’s words. The pre-midterm placement test was a challenge he was determined to overcome. In his heart, he believed he was almost ready. Over the summer, he hadn't just spent his time having fun; he had devoted countless hours to studying, pouring over books and honing his skills whenever he had the chance. Even when Mai, Ha-Yoon, or one of the adults in his life tried to pull him away for an adventure or a diversion, he found ways to balance it all, sneaking in moments to learn and grow.
A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he thought of King Morey and Minho. Both had shaped him in their own ways. King Morey, with his surprising warmth and watchful eye, had stepped in during difficult moments when Si-Woo and Ha-Yoon needed him most. And Minho—strict, wise, and ever-supportive—pushed him to be stronger, faster, and smarter with every training session. They, along with Ha-Yoon and Mai, were part of his family now, bound not by blood, but by bonds forged through trials and triumphs.
He knew he couldn't let any of them down. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he would rise to meet them, just as he had all summer. With that resolve burning in his chest, Si-Woo sat up straighter, ready to make every lesson and every moment count.
...
The academy grounds buzzed with anticipation as students gathered to hear the results of the pre-midterm placement test. Si-Woo walked alongside Mai and Ha-Yoon, each step feeling heavier than usual. Ha-Yoon’s shoulders slumped, and she spoke in a low tone, “I know I didn’t do so great on this one… No moving up a level for me, huh?”
Mai nodded sympathetically, her usually bright demeanor subdued. “Same here. I’m not expecting much either,” she admitted before glancing at Si-Woo with a hint of curiosity. “What about you? How do you think it went?”
Si-Woo shrugged, trying to keep his expression neutral. “I think I did alright… but I guess we’ll just have to see.”
The trio made their way to the academy entrance, the tension palpable. As they reached the doors, Si-Woo paused. “I’ll meet you both in the hall. I need to use the restroom real quick.”
Mai rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide a small smile. “Don’t hold us up,” she said as she and Ha-Yoon continued inside.
Si-Woo walked into the restroom, the sound of water dripping echoing in the tiled room. He washed his hands, letting the cold water calm his nerves. As he looked up into the mirror, he noticed a familiar figure entering behind him. Sol. The atmosphere in the room shifted immediately.
Sol's gaze was cold, his eyes never leaving Si-Woo as he walked closer. For a moment, neither spoke. The silence was heavy, tension building in the small space.
“Didn’t think you’d show your face today,” Sol finally sneered, his voice low but filled with unmistakable challenge.
Si-Woo met his gaze evenly, wiping his hands calmly. “Why wouldn’t I? We’re all here for the same thing.”
Sol took a step closer, the distance between them closing. “You think you’re something special, don’t you?” he muttered, his tone dark and mocking. “Let’s see if your results prove it.”