Inside the Prep Program Classroom
"Good morning, everyone," said Professor Lysander Hale, standing with a welcoming yet composed expression. "Let's study hard today and treat each other with kindness."
Just then, the classroom door burst open. Kaelan and the girl he'd met outside stumbled in, both panting.
"Ma—May we come in, sir?" the girl asked breathlessly.
The professor eyed them calmly, then turned to Kaelan. "Hmm… young man, why are you wearing the academy uniform?"
Kaelan froze.
Is he going to scold me over this? Ugh, Remus, you forgot to mention there's no dress code. I can't exactly say that out loud…
Professor Hale walked toward him with calm but deliberate steps, then leaned down and whispered, "Don't worry about what you wear to this prep class. This academy doesn't judge students based on their status or clothes. If you'd like, I can help you get something more casual today."
Kaelan blinked in surprise.
"Oh—no, sir. It's not like that. I just forgot today was the prep class. I… uh, washed all my clothes late last night, and they hadn't dried, so I had no choice."
The professor chuckled softly and whispered back, "If you're sure. Still, you handled that well. Motivation matters more than a dress code. Come on in."
Kaelan exhaled in relief and walked in.
Professor Hale addressed the class, his tone calm and sincere.
"I'll be your homeroom teacher during this prep program. This class exists to bridge backgrounds, not judge them. Though our academy is known for its prestige and elite status, I want you all to know—its true foundation lies in knowledge and character."
He paused, scanning the room. "Before we begin, are there any questions?"
Kaelan raised his hand.
"Yes, young man?" Hale asked with a small smile.
Kaelan stood. "Sir, if the academy truly believes in nurturing talent beyond background, why are there so few seats in the prep program? Out of 2000 new students, only 50 were chosen. Is the academy taking a gamble—trying to find gems among stones?"
The professor smirked. "What's your name, son?"
"Kaelan, sir."
"You speak as if you're auditing the institution," Hale mused.
Well, my family did found the place, Kaelan thought. But let's not say that part out loud.
"I'm not an undercover agent or anything," Kaelan said. "It's just that what you said and what I've seen don't align. I mean… it's not a bad system, but it doesn't look fair from the outside."
Professor Hale studied him with amusement.
"The academy does indeed have only 50 prep seats," he said. "And yes, the remaining seats are largely occupied by students from wealthy families. That's intentional. Those 'rich babies,' as the public calls them, fund the academy through hefty donations. We use a portion of that to support students in this program—so that true talent, regardless of background, can thrive."
Kaelan raised a brow. "So the academy plays Robin Hood?"
A chuckle rippled through the class.
Hale leaned slightly forward. "You're bold. I like that. But let me assure you—this academy is protected at the highest level. It was founded by one of the most powerful families in the state. You really think someone would dare steal from it?"
Kaelan smirked. "That's… oddly comforting."
Seren's Thoughts
Hmph. Mr. Dummy is bold, I'll give him that. Not bad. He's clever—definitely not someone from a typical low background. Is he from one of the shareholder families? Or… no way—don't tell me he's from the founders themselves?
Professor Hale tapped his register. "Let's continue with introductions. We'll start with… Mr. Kaelan."
Kaelan stood again, then paused.
Oh right—if I say my real name, the academy might start suspecting things. Better use Remus' surname just in case.
"My name is Kaelan Black. I'm excited to study with all of you and grow together. Let's be the kind of generation that changes the world."
Seren's Thoughts
Kaelan Black? Hmm… never heard of a 'Black' family in high society. So either he's really from nowhere—or just hiding it well. Mr. Dummy is full of surprises.
"And the student next to Mr. Kaelan?"
"My name is Seren Valen," she said calmly, flashing a polite smile. "Let's all work hard."
Kaelan glanced at her, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips.
So… she really showed up. Hair dyed black. Brown lenses. Disguised voice. You're cunning, Seren. Too cunning. I almost thought I lost the bet today. This will be fun.
Later, at Break Time – School Grounds
Seren walked briskly up to Kaelan, hand on her hip.
"Hey, Dummy. Shouldn't you be thanking me?"
Kaelan tilted his head. "For… what exactly?"
"For finally telling you my name," she said smugly. "You should've said, 'Oh my goddess, thank you for blessing me.'"
Kaelan raised an eyebrow. "Your name's really similar to the richest man's daughter. Are you her?"
She blinked. "What? No way. If I were her, why would I be in the prep program?"
Smooth lie, Kaelan thought. You're really confident for someone trying to hide her identity. Seren Valen… you might be even more dangerous than I thought.
"Oh. Too bad," he said with a disappointed sigh. "If you were, maybe I could've convinced you to buy me lunch. I forgot my wallet."
Seren rolled her eyes. "Seriously? All this over food? Come on. I'll treat you."
"Really?" he asked, a sly smile forming. "Can I choose the place?"
"Sure," she teased. "Let's see how expensive Mr. Dummy can get."
Without hesitation, Kaelan gently grabbed her wrist. "Then let's go."
"H Hey! Don't you think you're getting a little too close?" she blushed.
"You did say you're my goddess. A worshipper's allowed to walk beside his deity."
Seren giggled. "Okay, okay! Just don't drag me like a dog on a leash!"
Outside the Academy – Food Vendor
"Boss! Two sets of food, please."
The vendor groaned. "Only one set left. You two are late."
"I'll take it," Kaelan said. "How much?"
"599."
"Here's 600."
The vendor handed him the food and change. "Here you go. Two spoons."
Kaelan turned to Seren, grinning. "So, goddess… care to share your offering with a humble worshipper?"
Seren smiled softly. "Alright, Mr. Worshipper. You can eat too. But if there's anything I don't like… it's yours."
"As my goddess commands," he replied with a wink.
While Eating
Seren glanced up. "Hey… wanna walk home together later?"
"Sure—" Kaelan replied, then blinked. "Oh wait, I should call home first."
He dialed Remus.
"Remus, Seren wants to walk home together. Can you arrange something that fits my low profile story?"
Remus chuckled. "Yes, young master. I'll send you my son's address. He's working independently, so it won't look suspicious."
"Perfect," Kaelan said, grinning.
Bell Rings
Seren grabbed his arm again. "Alright, Mr. Dummy! Let's run!"
Kaelan laughed. "Again? You love dragging me around, huh?"
As they rushed back to class, she laughed with him, the sound carefree and bright.