The next morning, Zane was jolted awake by the blaring sound of his alarm clock. Startled, he opened his eyes to find sunlight streaming through the window, illuminating his room. It took a moment for him to fully process where he was, but the memories of the previous day came rushing back to him.
He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and swung his legs over the side of the bed, feeling the cool wooden floor beneath his feet. The weight of exhaustion still hung over him, but the excitement of the day ahead began to stir within.
"Today's the day," he murmured, taking a deep breath. Quickly dressing in his school uniform, the crisp fabric felt strange yet comfortable against his skin.
After gathering the last of his school supplies, Zane stepped out of his room, his mind racing with anticipation and a hint of anxiety. He made his way to the kitchen, where the delicious smell of pancakes wafted through the air. Sophia was already up, flipping them on the stove.
"Good morning, Zane!" she called out, her face lighting up with a smile. "Are you ready for your big day?"
"Morning, Sophia. I think so… as ready as I'll ever be," he replied, pouring himself a glass of juice.
After breakfast, Zane grabbed his bag and paused at the front door, trying to collect his thoughts. Stepping outside, a strange sensation washed over him. Suddenly, a translucent interface flickered to life before his eyes, startling him.
---
[System]
Name: Zane D. Everhart
Age: 17
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 155 lbs
• Rank: G
• Strength: G-
• Agility: G
• Stamina : G-
• Intelligence: E
• Mana Capacity: G
• Luck: F+
• Charm: G
Profession: [Not chosen]
QuestShopStatus
---
Zane blinked in disbelief. Normally, students received their "system" upon turning 18, and he had only a month to go. This was different from the typical experience; the original protagonist had received his system at the young age of 14, and Zane was getting something entirely unique. It felt overwhelming, as though he had been thrust into a role he wasn't ready for.
"What the…?" he muttered, trying to process the sudden appearance of the system. It was far more complex than he had anticipated, displaying information he didn't fully understand.
Sophia noticed his expression and came over. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing," Zane said quickly, attempting to shake off the shock. "I just—uh, I think I have to figure out my 'system' or something for school."
She raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced, but said nothing more. Instead, she nudged him playfully. "Let's get going before you're late!"
As they walked toward the academy, Zane felt determination rising within him. This was his chance to carve out a new identity and face the unknown head-on. Whatever this "system" meant for him, he was ready to embrace it.
Suddenly, another translucent interface appeared in front of him.
---
[Status]
• Name: Zane D. Everhart
• Age: 17
• Money: 450 Ů
• AcademyRank: 1904/2100
• Elements: ● Fire [ Level: 1]
---
Zane paused mid-step, taken aback by the new information. This was what he had read about in the novel—students often received their status window to keep track of their progress and abilities. The money indicated his current wealth, while the academy rank showed how he compared to his peers.
"Looks like I'm not starting at the top," he murmured to himself, glancing at the academy rank. The mention of "Fire" as his elemental affinity intrigued him. He had always admired fire for its power and beauty, and now it seemed he had a connection to it.
"Hey, Zane!" Sophia's voice broke through his thoughts, pulling him back to reality. "You okay? You look a bit spaced out."
"Yeah, just... thinking about everything," he replied, forcing a smile. "I guess I'm a bit nervous."
"Don't worry! You'll do great. Just be yourself." She patted his shoulder encouragingly.
Zane nodded, grateful for her support. As they reached the academy gates, he couldn't shake the feeling that his life was about to change drastically. With the system interfaces revealing so much, he felt like he was stepping into a world filled with endless possibilities and challenges, just as he had read in the novel.
Turning to Sophia, he asked, "I'll see you after school, right?"
"Of course! Just remember to text me if you need anything," she replied, giving him a quick hug before he entered the car.
The vehicle was a sleek, futuristic design, its smooth curves and glossy finish reflecting the morning sun. Inside, it blended comfort and technology with soft leather seats and an interactive dashboard that pulsed with soft blue light. As Zane settled in, he felt excitement wash over him.
Once the car was in motion, he marveled at the cityscape flashing by outside the window. The combination of scientific and magical advancements was evident everywhere. Towering skyscrapers of shimmering glass and steel reached into the clouds while floating platforms zipped overhead, carrying passengers through the air.
The car accelerated rapidly, and within just ten minutes, they arrived at the academy. Zane paid the driver 5 Ů, grateful for the efficiency of the ride.
As he stepped out, his gaze landed on the academy itself. It loomed before him, a magnificent structure of ancient stone blended with modern architecture. Enormous arched windows and intricate carvings adorned the facade, showcasing the craftsmanship that had gone into its construction.
Students moved about in organized chaos, chatting and laughing as they made their way to the entrance. The air buzzed with anticipation and the energy of youth, sending a thrill through Zane. This was it—the place where he would carve out his new path.
Taking a deep breath, he straightened his shoulders and walked toward the entrance, ready to embrace whatever awaited him inside.