Today was the anniversary of the end of the world as mankind knew it. Thirty-one years ago, a scientific experiment intended to further humanity's understanding of space and time instead brought forth a whole new world of unknown dangers, as space and time began to stretch and eventually tear itself apart. Through these tears came the Exbeasts, and the strange energy called Magic, and humans found themselves embroiled in a war not only for their own survival, but for that of every creature on their world as these new predators spread to every corner of the globe. Yet today was also the birth of a new generation of hope. For today, the opening ceremony of the Academy of Magic, Martial, and Other arts would mark the beginning of a new semester training the Magi, those individuals affected by Magic and made into natural catalysts for its power, and the Martial Classes, those warriors who chose to wield magically crafted arms and protect their fellows. With these two working in tandem, humanity would finally see a chance to reclaim their world from the inhabitants of another. So went the Dean's speech before the assembled students, as he continued to inform them of all the great things the previous generations of AcadeMMO students had accomplished, when the institution was founded roughly sixteen years ago. "...and so we realize that we place a great burden upon young shoulders," he said as he reached his closure. "But know that we would not do so if we were not confident in the results! Those of you who were blessed with the talents of Magic! Those of you who have pushed yourselves to the limit to become strong and courageous, who dare to fight Exbeasts one on one and come out victorious! Your training begins anew today, and we have faith that every one of you will put forth your effort! Let us all do our part, to ensure a bright future for all!" The assembly clapped, around half and half real enthusiasm and polite respect. There were even a few scattered cheers and shouts. Though not everyone took it as seriously as the Dean, each of them, somewhere in their hearts, knew that at least part of what he said was true. A great burden had been placed on them. After the opening ceremony, many of the incoming students were led around by the different group representatives and school council members to familiarize themselves with the layout of the school and the classrooms. Beyond this, however, the rest of the "first day" was intended to help returning students move their things back into dorms and getting new students situated, and to reunite friends who had not seen each other over break. The real classes--and Special Assignments--would start tomorrow. --- "You wanted to speak to me, sir?" English felt strange in Hayato's mouth after spending the break back home. AcadeMMO was an international organization, but given that the big financial backers were primarily from the western powers and it was already sort of an international language, all students had to be able to read and speak English at a conversational level. "Good morning, Mr. Nishimura." Professor Gene had been his homeroom teacher last year, and this year Hayato was in his Intermediate Swordplay class, as were most of the second year Knights. "I'm sure you remember our discussion at the end of last year?" He adjusted the black tie around the collar of his white dress shirt, his piercing blue eyes looking right at Hayato with a focus like the tip of a rapier. "Yes sir. I did a lot of studying over break." Hayato looked at his forehead instead of his eyes, knowing he couldn't meet the man's gaze. "I promise, this year I'll pass the general education sections with flying colors." "I should hope so. It's no good to scrape by academics by the skin of your teeth even if you are trying to focus on your training." The teacher leaned back in his chair and brushed one wayward spike of his blonde, unusually stylish hair (some students often remarked he looked like he'd stepped out of a JRPG) out of the way. "Hayato, the real reason you haven't been rising in rank isn't because you're not strong. It's because you chose to focus on training yourself, only taking a few easy Special Assignments when you needed to, and neglected your other studies. I know that, right now, your end goal is not to save the world." Hayato clenched a fist and looked down at the floor, remembering his brother. "But you can't just wait until an opportunity presents itself. You have to be the one to step out there. Training in preparation for "the day I save my brother" is useless if you never poke your head out of the dojo to see what day it is. This year, in addition to your academics, I want you to focus on getting experience in the field." "Yes sir." "You have the potential to do very well. You just need guidance." The man stood and walked over to the boy, clapping him good naturedly on the shoulder. "And that's what I and the other professors and teachers here are for. Come to us whenever you need anything." "Yes sir." Gene sighed and shook his head. "Alright then, as long as we're clear. Go on, then, make sure you're ready for all your classes tomorrow." Hayato left the room with a bow, still never meeting the teacher's gaze. Once he was back in the hall, he strode quickly past other students and classrooms, intent on heading towards the dorm. He had no classes or missions available today--he could start on his promise tomorrow. For now... "I'm still not strong enough..." he whispered to himself.