The next day, Anthony received a formal notice. He was to transfer from Class 1-B to the "Special Elite Class," a class reserved only for those who awakened S-Rank or A-Rank souls. The moment he walked into the new classroom, the temperature seemed to drop.
Twenty pairs of eyes turned to look at him. These were the geniuses of the grade. Students who awakened as Sword Saints, Elemental Lords, and Great Generals.
"Is this him? The late bloomer?"
"I heard he beat up Jake. But Jake is just a low-level martial artist."
"Look at him. He looks ordinary. No Qi pressure, no mana fluctuation."
A tall boy with silver hair stood up. His name was Julian. He had awakened the soul of a "Sky Swordsman," one of the highest combat professions. He walked towards Anthony, his eyes sharp as blades.
"Welcome," Julian said, but his tone was cold. "In this class, we don't care about excuses or miracles. Only strength. Prove you belong here, or go back to being trash."
He extended his hand for a handshake, but Anthony felt a sharp, invisible force pressing down on him—a deliberate intimidation using Qi.
Anthony looked at the hand, then up at Julian. Childish, Aetherion's voice echoed in his mind. He thinks releasing pressure makes him strong. Observe the flow of his energy. It is leaking everywhere. Wasteful.
Anthony didn't flinch. He reached out and grabbed Julian's hand. Instead of resisting the force, he gently twisted his wrist, guiding the energy away like water flowing around a stone.
Julian's face changed. His power dissipated instantly, leaving him feeling empty and off-balance.
"Nice to meet you," Anthony said calmly, pulling his hand back. "I intend to stay."
He walked past the stunned Julian and sat in the empty seat at the back. The class was silent. They realized immediately that this new guy was not to be messed with.