Extra Pages: The Author's Odyssey-Chapter 15: First Day At Academy (3)

After the weapon selection was complete, the Students were directed to the main faculty office to collect the coveted Smart Bracelets.

These devices were like a fusion of futuristic technology and magic, combining the functionalities of Dimensional Rings, smartwatches, and AI assistants all in one. The academy spared no expense when it came to their students' tools.

Smart Bracelets weren't just for storing items; they had holographic screens, AI assistance, and a whole range of features. Although I couldn't use the AI assistant until later, I was excited about the prospects of having such advanced technology at my disposal.

Eagerly, I received my Smart Bracelet and decided to head to my new apartment. As I walked, lost in thought about the conveniences this device would bring, I accidentally bumped into someone, and it felt like I had collided with a solid wall.

"Ahhh!" I let out a surprised yelp, almost stumbling backwards.

"Watch where you're going," I was ready to retort, but as I looked up, I found myself face-to-face with Aric. His cold olive eyes pierced into me, sending a chill down my spine.

"What?" I attempted to muster my bravado, but his intimidating aura left me stuttering. "Nothing, good sir. Please don't mind me."

He clicked his tongue and walked away, leaving me standing there in a mixture of relief and trepidation.

I couldn't help but think about the encounter. No, I wasn't scared of him. I just knew better than to provoke a major antagonist so early in the story. It was all about preserving the plot's balance, right?

But let's get one thing straight: I wasn't scared. Not at all.

As I was lost in my thoughts, someone approached me, and I looked up to see Aric standing there, his expression far from friendly. My heart raced, and I felt a mix of apprehension and annoyance.

"You collide into intentionally right?" he snapped, his voice dripping with irritation.

I quickly composed myself, not wanting to escalate the situation. "No I did not. Just a minor collision, nothing more."

He clenched his fists, and I braced myself for the worst. I could practically feel the anger radiating off him, ready to explode. For a moment, it looked like he was about to lunge at me, but he abruptly stopped himself, his fists relaxing.

I couldn't help but notice his internal struggle. He wanted to teach me a lesson, but something held him back. Perhaps the rules of Nova Academy? With a final scowl, he turned away, leaving me standing there.

As he walked away, he threw a warning over his shoulder, "You better watch yourself, extra."

The way he emphasized "extra" sent a shiver down my spine, reminding me of my precarious position as a character outside the main story.

I watched him go, my heart still racing.

I had managed to avoid a confrontation this time, but I couldn't help but wonder what the future had in store for me, especially when it came to characters like Aric Thornheart.

***

I made my way toward my new apartment. The academy had assigned our accommodations in the inner districts, a sign that we were truly becoming a part of this academy and its world.

As I walked through the bustling corridors, I couldn't help but think about the encounter with Aric. It was a reminder of the complexities that came with interacting with characters who had their roles and storylines.

I had managed to avoid trouble for now, but I couldn't shake the feeling that this wouldn't be the last time I'd cross paths with someone like him.

' I had to stay away from him... For now at least.'

I reached the front of the apartment building, my footsteps echoing lightly in the hallway. Stepping through the entrance, I made my way to the elevator, my anticipation growing as I ascended to the 7th floor.

Room 222, that was my destination. As the elevator dinged, signalling my arrival, I stepped out and began my search for the assigned room. Passing the numbers one by one, I kept an eye out for 222.

Finally, at the far end of the corridor, I found it – Room 222. The number plate caught my attention, but what intrigued me was the fingerprint scanner just beneath it. This wasn't just a regular lock – it was a security system that used my unique identifier.

With a quick exhale, I placed my finger on the scanner. It felt a little strange, knowing that my fingerprint was being scanned and recognized by the door.

As the scanner emitted a soft beep, I couldn't help but feel a sense of validation, a confirmation that I truly belonged here.

The door responded to the beep, swinging open to reveal my new home.

Stepping inside, I took a moment to survey the space. It was neat and modern, a far cry from the dormitory I was accustomed to. The furniture was sleek and comfortable, the decor minimalist yet inviting.

As I settled in, I couldn't shake off the feeling that each step I took, each choice I made, was contributing to the unfolding story around me.

With a sigh of contentment, I closed the door behind me.

This was going to be my home for the foreseeable future, and I was determined to make the most of it.

Turning my attention to the Smart Bracelet on my wrist, I marvelled at its capabilities.

It was like having a piece of advanced technology from the future right at my fingertips.

The thought that I could store objects within it using mana fascinated me. I'd have to experiment with it later to see just how useful it could be.

As I contemplated my new weapon choices, a mixture of excitement and apprehension filled me.

I had chosen to specialize in Swordsmanship, a decision that felt right given my background and preferences. But I had also opted for a bow, a weapon I had no formal training in.

Why the bow, you ask? Well, I wanted to be prepared for situations where closing in on an enemy wasn't possible. Long-range attacks could be a lifesaver, and having the option to engage foes from a distance could prove crucial in certain scenarios.

Sure, I didn't have any formal proficiency in using a bow, and it would undoubtedly be a challenge to master it alongside my chosen profession.

But that was the beauty of this world – the opportunity to learn and adapt, to push my limits and grow stronger.

With a determined smile, I made a mental note to find some time to practice with the bow, even if it meant starting from scratch.

After all, the academy was the perfect place for me to hone my skills.