In a vast field, hundreds of students sat in the chairs provided, facing a grand stage in the center. On the stage, the name "Stanfield High School No. 3" was prominently displayed, while in the corners of the field, several men in military uniforms stood tall, fully armed.
The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiastic conversations among the students. However, as a male teacher stepped onto the stage and signaled for silence, the lively chatter gradually faded.
Clearing his throat lightly, the teacher held the microphone and began speaking. "My dear students, today marks the true beginning of your lives. Today is the moment of awakening for your super abilities, ranging from Class F to Class S. The day you have all been waiting for has finally arrived."
As soon as those words were spoken, an excited cheer erupted across the entire field.
"Yeah! Finally! I can't wait to see what ability I'll awaken!"
"My expectations aren't too high—just getting Class C is good enough!"
"I hope my ability is related to magic!"
The lively discussions reignited. And how could they not? The awakening of special abilities determined their future.
If they awakened a powerful ability, their lives would be filled with battles and violence. However, the rewards were worth it—they would no longer be prey, and riches such as money and status would be within their grasp.
There were many types of super abilities, ranging from elemental control and magic to close combat skills. Additionally, Awakeners were ranked from Class F to Class SSS.
As the teacher continued his speech, a young man with black hair and an athletic build sat calmly among the students. The slight smile on his face showed that he, too, was caught up in the excitement surrounding him.
'Finally, after more than a year in this world, the moment I've been waiting for is here!'
This young man was no ordinary person. He did not originate from this world…
One year and three months ago, he woke up in this world in the body of a young man named Ronan Raylinde—the same name he had in his previous life.
At first, he felt deep frustration. He had no system to assist him and was thrown into a world where strength was everything.
Monsters, strange creatures, and wild beasts—things he had only seen in comics or movies—were real in this world.
A dangerous world.
However, Ronan did not let himself sink into frustration. He realized that at the age of 18, every individual would awaken their super ability. So, he began training his body, going to the gym, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and learning various martial arts techniques.
'There's no point in being reincarnated into this world if I only get a low-tier ability. I must awaken a S-Class ability!'
For over a year, Ronan had prepared everything—for this exact moment.
On the stage, the teacher raised his hand. "Alright, without further delay, I now officially declare the Awakening Ceremony… begun!"
Another wave of cheers erupted, even louder than before. The students were filled with anticipation as they eagerly awaited their turn.
This time, a middle-aged man with a scarred face, wearing a military uniform and possessing a muscular build, stepped onto the stage. He held a list of student names in his hand. His expression was cold and firm. With a powerful voice, he addressed the students without using a microphone.
"Students, today is the day your lives will be determined. Remember this well—not everyone will get what they wish for. You may hope for a high-class ability, but reality isn't always as sweet as dreams. However, no matter the result, never give up. A special ability is not everything. What truly defines your path in life is how you use it."
The field, which had been filled with cheers moments ago, suddenly turned serious. The once-chatty students now pondered the soldier's words. Some clenched their fists tightly, while others swallowed nervously, feeling the weight of the moment.
The man glanced down at the list in his hand before announcing loudly, "First up—Steve Murphy!"
A skinny yet confident-looking male student stood up from his seat. With determined steps, he walked onto the stage.
At the center of the stage stood a large black stone radiating a soft blue glow. It was an ancient artifact, a medium for awakening.
"You already know what to do? Have the teachers explained it to you?" the military man asked.
"Yes, sir!" Steve replied firmly.
The man nodded. "Good. Then proceed."
Steve took a deep breath and positioned himself before the stone, placing his hands on its surface. Immediately, blue energy enveloped his body. The glow intensified, making the students hold their breath.
From his perspective, the sensation was incredibly peaceful, as if he were floating among clouds, while something unknown seemed to pierce through his very being.
The blue light gradually faded, and Steve opened his eyes, staring at his arms, which were now hardening into a stone-like texture.
His eyes widened in both shock and excitement. A few seconds later, a hologram suddenly appeared above the black stone.
[Steve Murphy, C-Class: Body Reinforcement—Stone Hardening]
Cheers erupted once again among the students. Class C was a decent rank, enough to become a respected fighter. Steve clenched his now-hardened fists, his eyes gleaming with joy.
With a proud smile, he bowed and stepped down from the stage, returning to his seat. His friends immediately surrounded him, congratulating him on his ability.
Among the crowd, Ronan observed him with sharp eyes. 'Class C, huh? Not bad.'
Steve's successful awakening boosted the students' confidence, making them even more eager to take their turn.
"Next—Alexander Graham!"