Born in Blood



Janice exited the packed train terminal followed by Liam and the others. 

From where they walked through, it looked like the academy edges, the furthest away from the Hole. 

Somehow, under all that water and depth, there were lush trees here and there, with pleasing landscapes and green plains. 

It was basically a makeshift city, but everything was artificial.

Surrounding them were countless accommodations, square shaped and made from white stone. They fitted close to each other, but Liam could see them inscribed all throughout.

Still, strands of 'Ora' wafted all around, visible only to Liam's eye.

In the distance, other students were led by various teachers, donning different types of clothing.

"First off, you'll need to choose what classes and specializations you want to take. There are countless to pick from, but don't bite off more than you can chew."

"There's no limit to how many you end up taking, but if your grades in that class are below average, you'll be forced to leave it and choose another."

Janice explained with a bored, monotone voice, as though she was reading off a script. 

"You… you look like you enjoy a good battle, eh? How about it? Wanna join my class?" she asked Rin, eye sparkling with glittering lights.

Rin just stared blankly, blinking with confusion. Janice grew uncomfortable and looked away.

"She's… deaf, ma'am," Nessa said from the side, gesturing to Rin. "I'm actively translating your words to her."

A look of realization fell on Janice's face, shifting to a smile.

'She looks strong despite that. The red-eyed kid doesn't look too bad either. It's him with the greatest potential, though,' Janice thought, glancing at Liam who had his focus somewhere else.

'Looks like this year won't be boring either.'

Her eye lingered on the group for a moment. Cracking her knuckles, she continued.

"Anyway, your token will be the key to your dorm. You'll find an arrow on its bottom – that's pointing to where you'll live for your duration here."

Liam flipped his token. A glowing red arrow indeed pointed towards the north-east.

"We're heading towards the main hall now. There won't be any classes for a week, which is more than enough time for you to settle down and organize your things."

"Oh, there's also the Oracle you are required to visit – she'll give special recommendations on what classes to choose. It's your choice whether to accept her advice or not."

"Oracle?" Liam questioned, confused. "What's that?"

Before Janice could answer, Sveinn did.

"They're special individuals that have a deep connection with the Opposition. I heard they could peer into souls… and could even receive whispers of what the Opposition says."

Janice gave Sveinn a quick thumbs-up, but didn't notice the grave look on Liam's face.

'What are they gonna see if they peer into my soul? Will they know I've come from Earth? How can the Opposition speak?'

As Liam was absorbed in his musings, they arrived at a large dome-like building. 

The interior resembled a modern museum, the floors were made from shiny marble, with chandeliers lighting up the space. The ceiling was entirely glass, allowing one to see the ocean above.

To the right and left were large inscribed boards, containing a mumble jumble of information and various charts that moved on their own. In front, a plump lady sat behind a wooden counter.

Soon, all the cohorts led by other teachers converged within the hall, filling it slowly. 

The air instantly turned rowdy, excited whispers passing from lip to ear.

"Ugh," Janice grunted, annoyance growing on her face. "I hate it when the crowds get big."

An old man suddenly teleported in the center of the hall. 

He had a golden monocle on his right eye, his black irises somehow sharper than the well-trimmed goatee on his chin.

Although there were wrinkles on his face, his age didn't reflect on his intimidating face.

He was dressed in a complete black suit, his shoulders square and broad – his short milk-white hair slicked backwards.

Liam saw how his aura was much stronger than Janice's.

"I am Headmaster Reye Ornn," His voice was deep, demanding, regal. 

Like a king commanding his soldiers, his piercing gaze swept the crowd. 

"I will now state this year's highest ranker. If you recognize your name and number, step forward."

"Lawrence. 73 Gems."

Liam's face turned dark. He suppressed a grimace from appearing, but let out a deep grunt inside. First the soul peering thing, and now this.

'When are they gonna realize some people don't beg for attention?'

Janice and the students made way for Liam to pass through, giving him a strong tap on the back along with a mischievous wink.

Countless gazes intersected on Liam's figure – awe, jealousy, respect and disgust. He hated each one.

"Well done, young man. Due to your incredible accomplishment, you will be given close accommodation to the Hole. Use it well."

'At least that's a plus.'

Liam nodded with a gesture of respect. 

Reye took his token and applied some 'Ora' on it, then gestured for him to enter back inside the crowd.

"I will now explain the rules of this establishment. You are obliged to strictly follow. I have already expelled 84 students… nobles, mind you, for unruly behavior and disrespect. Do not add yourself to the list."

A smirk almost appeared on Liam's face. He liked the Headmaster already. Especially seeing the stiff look from the surrounding nobles.

"No fighting or bullying of any kind... self-defense, however, is perfectly okay."

"Duels and wagers are allowed, but first-years are required to have a supervisor on standby."

"Some classes are mandatory, and run on a strict schedule. The teachers have the last word, do not challenge them or ask for leniency."

"For the first week, our facilities are free, before you are required to pay to use them."

"We have a point system for those that wish to purchase techniques and spells, but you will need to complete missions in order to attain them."

The Headmaster let the students absorb his words momentarily, before concluding his words.

"You may visit the Oracle before the end of this week, along with the many facilities we have before classes start."

"Dismissed."