The academy's morning bell chimed faintly in the distance, but most students were already up and about. It was only six in the morning, but the grounds were brimming with life.
Some students headed to the massive cafeteria to grab an early bite or chat with friends. Others took their time walking lazily toward the library, already deep into books or magical scrolls. Many went to the towering training hall near the academy's eastern wing. This was where strength was forged—and where Lucien Graycliff now found himself headed.
Lucien, like the rest, had woken up at six. The dormitory uniform felt surprisingly good on him: a sharp red coat, a white shirt underneath, a black tie knotted neatly, and fitted black pants. As he checked his reflection in the mirror, he couldn't help but smirk.
"Damn, I'm handsome,"
He muttered, adjusting the collar. The image staring back at him was far from the frail boy once called the Useless Prince.
"Wonder how many girls will fall for just a smile?"
He laughed quietly and headed out. The moment he stepped outside, the energy of the academy struck him like a wave—thousands of students, walking, running, talking, and training in every direction. The academy truly was a city of its own.
But Lucien had a goal this morning.
He entered the training hall and froze for a second.
The interior was breathtaking. Rows of magical equipment lined one side, beast-taming circles glowed on another. Students sparred with swords, cast low-level magic, summoned beasts, and challenged dummies that glowed with barrier enchantments. It was even bigger than the royal palace's training yard.
He took a deep breath and opened his status window.
Name: Lucien GraycliffAge: 17Race: HumanTitle: [Useless Prince]Class: SwordsmanLevel: 10Skills: Blood Vein Slash (Mastered), Shadow Rush (Affinity – 14%)Trait: Phantom EdgeMana: 35/35Stamina: 38/44Status: Alive (Excited)
"Let's get to work."
He stepped into a quiet corner and began practicing Shadow Rush.
The technique was difficult. He had to concentrate and flow mana throughout his entire body, syncing it in rhythm while activating the stance. When it worked, he would vanish into shadows and reappear in an instant like a flash-step—but only if he maintained it for ten full seconds.
The best he had achieved so far was five.
Lucien tried again. Mana coursed through his limbs as he whispered the activation phrase in his mind. Darkness surrounded his feet—he vanished.
A second later, he reappeared several meters away—but stumbled.
"Damn… again."
He muttered, wiping the sweat from his brow.
He kept repeating the process. Over and over. His movements were slow compared to the seasoned upperclassmen. Some students sparing nearby looked over.
"Isn't that the prince?"
"Yeah. I heard he got directly into Class 3-C."
"But look at him… that stance looks shaky."
"Trying to learn a movement technique with a sword class… he's either brave or stupid."
Lucien ignored the comments. Others admired his persistence; a swordsman using a magic-infused stance wasn't normal. But for him, failure wasn't an option.
By the time it was 8 a.m., he was dripping in sweat. His shadow rush had reached six seconds—his best yet.
Satisfied for now, he headed to the cafeteria.
The halls were just as lively, filled with students from every background: nobles, barons, and commoners alike. He spotted Iris sitting alone, finishing her meal quickly. She waved him over.
"Yo!"
Lucien said, sitting beside her.
"You look like crap."
She said with a teasing grin.
"Training this early?"
He nodded.
"Gotta get stronger, don't I?"
She smirked, but her tone softened.
"Don't push too hard. Save some energy for class… and maybe your secret admirer."
Lucien raised an eyebrow.
"You mean your mystery boyfriend?"
She blushed slightly and stood.
"I'm late for my lecture. Eat properly."
He grinned as she walked off.
After breakfast, Lucien found his way to Class 3-C. It was one of the mid-tier classes—above most newcomers, but far from the elite. As he entered the classroom, dozens of eyes turned toward him.
There were about 70 students, some clearly of noble birth, others were commoners. All of them were swordsmen and all of them had passed the entrance test, meaning they were competent.
Lucien's presence caused a stir. Some recognized him immediately. A few whispered about the so-called Useless Prince sitting in the same class.
He ignored the noise. His eyes scanned the rows—and then he saw her.
Sistina.
Red hair flowed down to her waist, crimson eyes focused on the notebook in front of her. She wore the same uniform but somehow made it look elegant. Even seated, she had an air of dignity. Her beauty was effortless, and unlike the flashy noble girls, hers was raw and striking.
Lucien felt his heartbeat skip.
She looked up.
Their eyes met—and for a moment, the world hushed. Her expression changed from curious to surprised, and then she smiled—just a little.
That was enough.
He walked over confidently. The seat next to her was empty. Others waved him over, especially noble girls and a few boys, eager to get closer to royalty.
"She's just a commoner."
One noble girl scoffed.
But Lucien shook his head.
"It's alright. I'll sit here."
He pulled the chair beside Sistina and sat down.
She turned slightly, a light blush on her face.
"Y-You're Lucien… right?"
He nodded.
"And you're… Sistina?"
She nodded shyly.
"I heard about you. Class 3-C right off the bat… pretty impressive."
Lucien gave her a faint smile. The system chimed softly in his mind:
Notice: Potential Love Interest - Affection Level: Interested
He cleared his throat.
"I saw your name on the top scorers. That's even more impressive."
Her eyes widened in surprise, then she smiled again.
"Thank you."
Before the conversation could go further, the classroom door opened. A tall woman with sharp glasses and an even sharper gaze walked in. Her coat was crisp, her steps precise. The chatter died instantly.
Professor Emma.
Everyone stood up.
"Good morning, Professor Emma!"
The class said in unison.
"Sit!"
She said coolly, placing a stack of scrolls on the front desk.
"Welcome to Class 3-C. You're here because you're better than average, but don't let that get to your head. We'll see how long you last."
Lucien exchanged a glance with Sistina. Both smiled slightly, sharing a silent thought:
'Let's see what this academy really has in store.'