The morning sun cast golden rays through the large windows of the Salvatore School, illuminating the ancient wooden desks of the classroom. Adrian sat near the back, his posture relaxed but his mind sharp, analyzing everything around him. Though he had spent most of yesterday being introduced to the school, today was his first real lesson.
Alaric Saltzman stood at the front, a stack of books in hand, his presence commanding yet approachable. "Alright, today we'll be reviewing supernatural hierarchies and the influence of bloodline purity. Since we have a new student, let's see what he knows. Adrian, care to share your thoughts?"
Adrian looked up, his silver eyes meeting Alaric's. He had expected something like this. The headmaster wanted to gauge him, see what kind of knowledge he possessed.
Leaning forward slightly, Adrian spoke in his usual calm tone. "The supernatural hierarchy varies depending on the species. Vampires, for example, are traditionally structured around their bloodlines. The older the sireline, the more powerful the vampire. The Originals sit at the top, followed by the first generations they turned. However, since the sire bond was broken, the current vampire structure is more of a power-based hierarchy rather than a lineage-based one."
Alaric nodded, impressed. "And what about witches?"
"Covens determine power distribution," Adrian continued smoothly. "While individual talent matters, lineage and ancestral magic play a crucial role. The Gemini Coven, for example, operates through the Merge, ensuring only the strongest twin leads. The New Orleans witches follow a monarchy-like system, with a Regent ruling over them. As for werewolves, their hierarchy is heavily influenced by alpha dominance, determined through combat, bloodline, or supernatural interference."
The classroom was silent. Even Hope, who was often the most knowledgeable in the room, found herself listening intently. MG gave a low whistle. "Dude, do you just read supernatural encyclopedias for fun?"
Adrian offered the faintest of smirks. "Something like that."
Lizzie, however, seemed more skeptical. "That's all textbook knowledge. What about practical experience?"
Adrian tilted his head slightly. "Theory forms the foundation. Without it, practical application is unstable."
Josie nudged her sister. "He's not wrong."
Alaric clapped his hands together. "Alright, moving on. Hope, take Adrian with you after class and show him the training hall. Since he's new, he should get familiar with our practical sessions."
Adrian didn't react outwardly, but he had been waiting for this. Observing the others in combat would give him insight into their strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, he needed to test how much he could reveal without drawing too much attention.
Later That Day – Training Hall
The training hall was a massive open space, lined with reinforced walls and enchanted dummies. Students gathered in groups, some practicing hand-to-hand combat, others testing their magic. Adrian walked beside Hope, who kept sneaking glances at him.
"You really don't give much away, do you?" she finally said.
"What would you like to know?" Adrian asked, not breaking his stride.
Hope shrugged. "Anything. You're the first person in a while that I can't pin down. It's… strange."
"Then perhaps it's better to keep it that way."
Hope narrowed her eyes but let it go. "Fine. Let's see how you do in combat."
She gestured toward a sparring ring where MG was waiting. "MG, want to test our new guy?"
MG grinned. "Sure, but go easy on me, alright?"
Adrian stepped into the ring, rolling his shoulders. He had no intention of revealing too much, but a controlled display of skill was necessary.
The moment the match started, MG moved fast—a blur of vampire speed—but Adrian had already analyzed his footwork. As MG lunged, Adrian sidestepped smoothly, redirecting the momentum with a simple shift in position.
The crowd murmured.
MG tried again, throwing a rapid series of punches. Adrian deflected each one with minimal movement, his reflexes impeccable. Then, in one fluid motion, he twisted MG's arm behind his back and stepped away before the vampire could react.
MG blinked. "Damn. You're quick."
Hope crossed her arms, watching carefully. "You're holding back."
Adrian met her gaze, unreadable. "Everyone should have their secrets."
Hope smirked. "Now I really am keeping an eye on you."
Adrian merely nodded.
The first lesson was over, but the real game had just begun.