Chapter 4: The Unexpected Welcome

Taro's heart still racing from the Golden Ray, he was approached by the elderly teacher, who beamed with a warm smile. "Congratulations, young Taro. You have been selected to join our esteemed academy."

The teacher handed Taro a small, intricately designed badge. "The official list of selected students will be released soon, but I'm afraid your identity, along with the other 19 students, will remain confidential. It's a tradition we uphold here."

Taro nodded, still in awe. As he entered the academy, he was greeted by a stern-looking instructor, who outlined the school's rules.

"First and foremost, there is to be no killing. We value life and seek to nurture talent, not destroy it. Secondly, each year, a ranking match will be held. This ranking system includes not only students but also teachers. Your performance will determine your standing within the academy."

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Taro listened intently, his mind racing with the possibilities.

After the orientation, Taro was escorted to his dormitory. As he settled in, he suddenly felt a familiar sensation wash over him. The world around him dissolved, replaced by the stark white space he had encountered before.

A robotic voice spoke to him once more, "Welcome back, Taro. I see you're still alive."

Taro raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, no thanks to you. What's with the dramatic entrance? Can't you just, like, send me a text or something?"

The system responded, "Ha! You're a funny one, Taro. I'll keep that in mind for future interactions."

Taro smirked. "Glad to be of service. So, what's the plan this time?"

The system replied, "Well, the author has decided to make me a part of the narrative. I'll be guiding you on your journey to become the most powerful being in this world."

Taro chuckled. "Sounds like a real blast. And, by the way, you're getting a bit too comfortable with this whole 'talking to humans' thing."

The system said, "Hey, someone's got to keep you in check. Now, let's get this story back on track before the author decides to throw in another plot twist. And, by the way, nice job breaking the fourth wall... again. Time to fix that, don't you think?"

Taro grinned. "Ya, let's fix it then."