Tobin unrolled a large map on the table, pointing to the various regions.
This time, Hayden finally felt excited. This was something he really needed. After all, there was no big map in the library of his father!
There was only their territory map and partly of their neighboring land.
Needless, he had his Ocularis Lens work overtime to record all of this.
Soon, Tobin began teaching and everyone in the class went silent.
"The Austere Kingdom is divided into five provinces, the fertile plains of Akoum, the rugged mountains of Murasa, the dense forests of Lirandel, the deserts of Sundara, and the icy tundras of Versailles. Each region has its own unique challenges and resources…"
Most of them knew that they were at the edge of Lirandel so they couldn't help but look at it first on the map.
Tobin then started teaching them about the various regions of the kingdom. Although he should be teaching the nearby territories first, he knew from his experience that these students would first want to hear about the entirety of their kingdom.
During this time, a few students would raise their hands to ask him about the regions from time to time.
Then, as he was teaching them about the various interesting lands in Versailles, another student asked. "Master Tobin, why is Versailles so sparsely populated? Is it just because of the cold?"
Master Tobin chuckled. "An excellent question. Versailles's harsh climate makes it difficult to grow crops or raise livestock. But it's also rich in minerals and rare resources, which makes it valuable to the kingdom. The people who live there are resilient and resourceful, much like the Knights who protect them."
Another student, a girl with blonde hair asked. "What about the neighboring kingdoms? Are they friendly or hostile?"
Tobin would also teach about the neighboring kingdoms but he wouldn't really focus on it until their fourth and fifth grade. In any case, he didn't mind satisfying their curiosity since this was just their first class.
Master Tobin then replied after a few moments.
"The neighboring kingdoms have a complex relationship with the Austere Kingdom. To the east lies Ikoria, a close ally. To the west is Naya, a rival with whom we've had many conflicts. To the south is Phyrexia, a neutral kingdom with whom we trade. And to the north is Zendikar, a powerful but distant ally."
Hayden listened intently as the Ocularis Lens recorded every detail of Master Tobin's explanations. He knew that understanding geography would be crucial for his future whether he became a knight or not.
After answering this, Master Tobin returned to Lirandel where they are located, and told them to take notes of the various historical places of their region…
After an hour, their class finally ended and everyone seemed to really like this class, unlike their previous one.
***
In the meantime, as most of the students returned to their dorm after the Geography class, Hayden made his way to Mistress Hannah's office.
He found it quickly as the manual given to them before included the offices of the Instructors.
"Get in…"
Just as he was about to knock, Hayden heard the instructor's voice from the inside. Hayden no longer hesitated as he entered the room.
It was filled with books, scrolls, and mathematical models, showing his passion for her subject...
"Hayden," she said, gesturing for him to sit. "I've been reviewing your work, and I must say, I'm impressed. Your understanding of mathematics is far beyond what I'd expect from someone your age."
Hayden nodded, his expression calm. "Thank you, Mistress Hannah. I've always enjoyed numbers."
Mistress Hannah leaned forward and smiled. She knew that it was more than just that.
"Tell me, Hayden. How would you like to take on some advanced studies? I think you have the potential to excel, and I'd like to help you reach it."
Hayden heaved a sigh of relief as this was something he wanted. He then looked at her eyes and nodded.
"I'd like that, Mistress Hannah. Thank you."
She smiled. "Good. I'll be testing you once again including in other subjects… This is to let me have a good grasp of your limit and know where to recommend you... Allow me to prepare within three days. Then, I'll be talking to the Headmaster to put you in a higher class… The Headmaster may conduct another test for that."
Hayden didn't mind this long process.
After all, it was literally just his first day in class. It was already amazing that Mistress Hannah had been so kind and attentive to her new student.
She could just ignore his talent or perhaps, wait for a long time once he showed more results. However, as soon as she saw the potential in him, she immediately acted and that was certainly something Hayden appreciated.
'I don't mind helping you if you're in trouble someday in the future…' Hayden promised in his mind.
"Thank you, Mistress Hannah." Hayden replied and slightly bowed at her.
***
On the next day, they only had two classes. They were the Physical Conditioning Class and Introduction to Aura. As for the Basic Swordsmaship Class, it was only being held every Saturday or once a week.
"I guess it's not surprising, huh…" Hayden thought as the Physical Conditioning Class started.
Physical Conditioning was quite a tiring class led by a tall and muscular man named Brant.
In their first class, Instructor Brant had already instructed his students to run laps, do push-ups, and practice basic exercises to build their strength and endurance!
"A strong body is the foundation of a strong mind!" He shouted as he watched them run. This man didn't even bother learning their names.
Well, based on his experience, there would be plenty of students who would quit in just a few weeks.
He believed that he should just bother learning their names if they lasted for two months in the Academy!