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Chapter 2.3: Welcome to the AMSB High School-the school of dreams.

Chapter 2.3: Welcome to the AMSB High School-the school of dreams.

(Dans Perspective)

As I stepped into the classroom, the atmosphere felt thick with expectation, a tangible reminder of the many eyes that would soon evaluate me. My assigned seat was in the row closest to the door, one row back—a perfect position for anyone who preferred the escape route to be within arm's reach.

The room was buzzing, voices overlapping as everyone chattered about their goals, their worries, and their plans for the year. I leaned back in my seat, scanning the crowd. The person next to me hadn't shown up yet—or maybe just hadn’t arrived. Most of the others looked full of energy, leaning forward, eyes bright. Meanwhile, I stayed still, more of an unwilling spectator to this circus than a participant.

The girl who’d interrupted me earlier was seated right behind me. Slightly irritating, but I decided to mentally erase her. Out of sight, out of mind.

“Ugh, I can already feel the weight of expectation pressing down on me,” I thought, rolling my eyes. Why did every new school year have to start with this forced camaraderie? It was all just a façade, anyway. Everyone here was pretending to be excited about making friends and finding their paths. In reality, we were all just navigating a minefield of social awkwardness.

The teacher finally arrived, and I glanced up to see a woman with a confident stride, exuding an air of casual authority. She had long, dark hair, and her glasses rested low on her nose, giving her a somewhat scholarly look. She was also pretty. Very pretty.

“Alright, settle down, everyone!” she called out, her voice firm yet oddly comforting. “I’m Ms. Kaira, your homeroom teacher. I expect you all to put in the effort this year—not just academically but socially as well. No slacking off!”

Her presence demanded attention, but I was less than enthused. “Great, another teacher who thinks she can change the world through her pep talks,” I mused, leaning back in my seat, arms crossed.

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“Let’s start with introductions,” Ms. Kaira continued, her tone brightening. “I want to hear your names, your favourite magic, and one interesting thing about yourselves.”

I sighed inwardly. Why did we have to share such personal details? It felt like a group therapy session, not a classroom. I could already envision the eye-rolling and cringe-worthy moments that would inevitably follow.

When the first student introduced himself, I couldn’t help but mentally critique every word. “Look at him, trying so hard to impress everyone. As if anyone really cares,” I thought.

I forced myself to stay attentive as the introductions went on, half-listening while contemplating the sheer absurdity of it all. I wasn’t here to make friends; I was here to get my education and survive another year.

Eventually, it was my turn. I straightened up, prepared to keep it brief. “Dan., I like fire magic. I’m here to pass.”

A few heads turned in my direction, but I could see the subtle judgement in their eyes—the same look people always gave when they encountered someone who dared to be honest instead of sugar-coating things.

“Thank you, Dan. Honesty is refreshing,” Ms. Kaira remarked, a smirk playing at the corners of her lips. “But don’t be so quick to dismiss the importance of connection. This is a community, after all.”

I stifled a groan. “Great, now I’m the ‘honesty guy.’ Just what I need.”

As the introductions continued, I allowed myself to zone out, lost in my thoughts. If this was the start of another year, then I had to navigate it like a game. Keep my head down, avoid unnecessary drama, and try not to get too entangled in anyone’s expectations.

Then it was that girl's turn; she stood up straight and introduced herself.

“Celia Princer, I like light magic, and I have 3 aptitudes.”

Having two, let alone three, aptitudes is pretty rare, so it’s no surprise the whole class gasped. Everyone was applauding like it was some grand achievement, and she just took her seat like it was nothing. But for some reason, it really irritated me.

I could already feel the impending sense of doom looming over me as Ms. Kaira finished up the round. I just hoped this year wouldn’t be as exasperating as the last time I was in school.