1
ABNORMAL CLASS
Chapter 1 (I didn't sign up for this...)
The sky above Royal Veil Academy rippled with a soft buzz. A dark blue hovercar descended towards the marble-floored parking lot.
In the lot were hundreds of hovercars of different colors along with sleek land cars and sophisticated motorcycles.
Thousands of students in neatly tailored black blazers moved through the lot, each wearing a name tag and the academy crest.
Their uniforms were almost identical, except for the colored vests worn beneath their blazers.
Gold.
Silver.
Dark red.
Green.
Brown.
The colors represented the academy's class-ranking system.
Adults moved along with them, some in classy attires, some dressed formally. You could tell which social class they belonged to just by their outfits.
Most were parents or guardians.
Normally, orientation was just a short welcoming program for new students, but this was Royal Veil Academy, rank fifth among the nation's top five academies.
The academy might rank fifth, but it was still one of the best institutions in the country. Getting admitted alone was a privilege few could ever hope to earn.
If getting into Royal Veil, the lowest-ranked of the five, was this difficult, imagine the competition of trying to get into the four others.
Families from every corner of the country had gathered for the occasion, filling the parking lot with an endless stream of luxury hovercars, flying limousines, and private aerial transports.
Some parents had their flying cameras take pictures of them for this memorable day, not forgetting to signal their children to stand tall.
For many parents and guardians, today was more than simply accompanying their children. It was a celebration to show off their status.
Wealthy families arrived dressed in designer attire, escorted by bodyguards or personal assistants. They exchanged polite smiles while quietly measuring other people's status based on their family crest.
The students were no different from their parents. They stood straight, their chin almost facing the sky like proud peacocks.
Friend groups had already begun forming, some had met during entrance examinations, some had known each other through social gatherings.
Each student secretly sized up the others, observing who was stronger, who was influential, who might be a bad influence, and would be a worthy rival.
Abilities flashed everywhere, mostly from students showing off or those that just didn't care about making a good first impression.
A boy absentmindedly floated his suitcases beside him, a girl sprouted flower petals on the floor with every step she took.
A group of girls laughed together as one made tiny birds from water that fluttered around them before dissolving into mist.
Laughter echoed through the courtyard, hover drones moved in between buildings carrying supplies.
On a towering building at the middle of the school grounds, massive holographic screens welcomed the new students, displaying rotating maps, schedules, and the words:
WELCOME TO ROYAL VEIL ACADEMY. Orientation Ceremony Begins in 30 Minutes...
For the students, this was the beginning of a new chapter. For some it was the place where legends would be born, for others it was a place to make a name for themselves and secure their future.
But none of them really knew what the future held.
The academy grounds buzzed with excitement as students and their families streamed toward the grand hall.
Some headed toward the dormitory buildings to drop off their belongings, others explored the campus or attempted to make friends with people from influential families.
And somewhere away from the main building...
A tall boy in an immaculate uniform and dark-red vest looked another student up and down with open disgust.
"They actually let someone like you into Royal Veil?" His remark earned several snickers from the students watching.
The student standing opposite him tightened his grip on a purple duffel bag. His uniform was neat but he wore a dark blue vest which drew judgmental looks from onlookers.
The boy didn't reply.
He kept his eyes on the floor as if refusing to look at them would make them disappear. His long lashes fanned across his cheeks as he blinked.
"You should stay away from the abnormal," another student said with a scoff. "He might accidentally blast you away."
The first boy grabbed the student's blazer and pulled it forward, examining his identity crest.
"An abnormal student who's also on scholarship?" He smirked. "I could offer you some charity if you want, dollface." Laughter erupted around them.
"Charity cases like you should know your place," the boy continued. "You're already a waste, I don't know why the school keeps accepting broken types like you."
The scholarship student's ears turned red. His slender fingers tightened around the handle of his bag, but he said nothing.
'They'll get tired when they get no response from you.'
A short distance away, a woman sighed as she watched the scene unfold.
So much for being a prestigious school.
She remembered the vice principal's shallow speech about how orderly and respectful Royal Veil's students were.
'I didn't sign up for this.' she almost rolled her eyes.
She had expected problems but wasn't expecting to see it just 20 minutes after arriving.
Even the adults passing nearby kept their eyes ahead, pretending they hadn't noticed anything.
"This isn't how I planned my first impression..." Dahlia murmured.
She straightened her trench coat and walked toward the crowd. "Is there a problem here?" Her voice was gentle and polite.
Her smile, however, looked more like a warning.
The courtyard fell silent. Most of the students wondered who would be bold enough to confront a B-class student.
"Who the hell are you?" the bully asked, rolling his eyes. "Buzz off. This has nothing to do with you."
Dahlia raised an eyebrow.
She wasn't wearing a uniform, so she clearly wasn't a student. Perhaps she was a guest or maybe a nosy staff.
"I don't appreciate disrespect," Dahlia said, her smile disappearing. "Especially from little brats like you." The boy's expression darkened.
A few students chuckled. The bully's face reddened. How dare they laugh at him?
He opened his hand, preparing to activate his ability.
A mechanical voice immediately followed.
"Attention students, The orientation ceremony will begin in ten minutes."
The boy glared at Dahlia. "This isn't over." He marched away, deliberately bumping his shoulder against the scholarship student as he passed. The boy staggered.
Dahlia's eyes narrowed but before she could say anything, the crowd dispersed. Soon, only Dahlia and the scholarship student remained.
"Thank you for your help, Miss." The student immediately bowed almost ninety degrees.
Dahlia jumped "Whoa! Don't do that!"
She waved him off "Boy, I seem to be lost. You know where the auditorium is, right?" The student nodded and gestured for her to follow.
She sighed in relief and followed him.
....
The academy auditorium was nothing but breathtaking.
Tier upon tier of seats stretched upward like a theater room. Floating holographic screens displayed the academy crest of a Phoenix holding a scale in its claws.
Under the academy logo was the academy's motto: 'history is changed by those who are forgotten'
Cameras hovered silently through the hall, broadcasting the ceremony across the campus.
Second- and third-year students weren't required to attend, but they could watch the ceremony live through AcademyNet, the private network accessible only to Royal Veil students and staff.
Thousands of first-year students filled the seats, chatting excitedly.
Parents and guardians occupied the upper sections.
After several minutes, the lights dimmed and chatters gradually faded.
A spotlight illuminated the stage.
The academy's principal stepped forward, dressed in a long ceremonial coat embroidered with silver and gold threads.
He carried himself with calmness and dignity.
Behind him stood the vice principal, senior instructors, department heads, and several of the academy's most respected staff members.
The principal smiled "Good morning, distinguished parents, guardians, honored faculty members, and, most importantly, our newest students."
A wave of applause swept through the auditorium.
"On behalf of everyone at Royal Veil Academy, I welcome you all." His aging face creased into a smile.
"For over a century, this academy has produced exceptional heroes, leaders, innovators, researchers, protectors, and champions whose contributions have brought major change to the nation." He paused.
"Every student seated here today has earned their place through determination, talent, and hard work." He added.
'I bet most of them earned their place through connections and money.' Dahlia resisted the urge to roll her eyes.
"Some of you come from families whose names are known throughout the country. Others are the first in your families to step into these halls." the holographic screens displayed images of students from different backgrounds.
"Here, neither your wealth nor your background will determine your future. Your character, discipline, and willingness to grow will." Several students exchanged thoughtful glances.
'Sure your background won't matter...'
This academy is more than just a school. It is a community where extraordinary abilities are trained with responsibility." The hall remained completely silent.
"Over the coming years, you will train harder than you ever imagined. You will face challenges that test your courage, friendships, and values. But through those experiences, you will discover who you truly are and perhaps even discover your purpose."
The holographic screens shifted, displaying images of combat training, research laboratories, rescue missions, and graduation ceremonies.
"You will meet classmates who become lifelong friends. Some may become rivals who push you toward greater heights. Respect them both, for every encounter is an opportunity to learn." His expression softened.
"To our parents and guardians, thank you for trusting us with those most precious to you. We promise to challenge them, guide them, and help them reach their fullest potential."
Applause echoed throughout the auditorium.
Finally, the principal raised a hand. "Students, today marks the beginning of a journey unlike any other. Walk through these halls with determination, train with discipline, lead by example, and let your abilities serve not only yourselves, but the world around you."
The academy emblem flared brightly. "Welcome to Royal Veil Academy!"
The auditorium erupted into thunderous applause.
Dahlia joined in with a small smile. "What a touching speech."
The lights dimmed again as the academy anthem echoed throughout the auditorium.
Thousands of students, parents, guardians, and faculty members rose to their feet, placing their clenched right fists against the left side of their chests.
When the anthem ended, the master of Ceremonies, a member of the student council stepped forward.
Thunderous applause, cheers, and whistles filled the hall.
"Now, please welcome the vice principal, who has a few words for our new students." The host bowed slightly as a stern-looking woman approached the podium.
"Congratulations on your admission." Her voice was calm but sharp.
"Now that you are students of Royal Veil Academy, there are certain expectations." She tapped the podium.
A holographic screen appeared behind her. "First, no student is permitted to use abilities to intentionally harm another student outside approved training sessions."
"Second, bullying, discrimination, and harassment of any kind will result in severe disciplinary action."
Dahlia rolled her eyes. 'They should stop talking about this rule if they're not going to enforce it.'
"Third, restricted laboratories, facilities, and training zones require staff permission before entry."
"Fourth, attendance is mandatory. Repeated absences without approval may lead to suspension."
"Fifth, respect your instructors, classmates, and academy staff regardless of background, social standing, or ability level."
'Oh, stop talking about this.'
The students shifted slightly in their seats. No one knew what the others were thinking.
"Our academy welcomes students from every walk of life. Wealth, influence, and family reputation grant no special privileges here. Every student will be judged by their discipline, effort, and integrity." She adjusted her glasses.
"Finally... remember that your abilities are not excuses, use them responsibly." The vice principal concluded her speech and left the podium.
A respectful round of applause followed, and the host returned to the stage.
"Now, to share what life at Royal Veil is truly like, please welcome the Student Council President, Mister Dimitri."
A confident senior stepped onto the stage, he wore a a silver council badge and a golden vest beneath his carefully buttoned blazer.
"Welcome, everyone!" The atmosphere immediately became lighter, the students were clearly tired of formal speeches.
"I know most of you are nervous. I was too." Several first-years laughed.
"Classes here are difficult, and training can be exhausting. And you'll probably get lost at least five times during your first week." More laughter spread through the hall.
"But don't worry, that's exactly why we're here." The holographic screen changed, displaying a campus map and a QR code.
"This code will take you directly to AcademyNet. One of its main functions is the navigation guide, so hopefully none of you will get lost on your way to class."
Dahlia nodded approvingly. 'A navigation system? Finally, something useful.'
"The Student Council exists to help you settle into academy life. If you're confused about your timetable, clubs, dormitories, training facilities, or even where to find the best food on campus, come to us."
A few students immediately took out their phones to scan the QR code.
"The AcademyNet also contains your schedule, daily announcements, individual accounts, class groups, and several other functions you'll discover for yourselves." Dimitri smiled.
"And one more thing..." He looked across the audience.
"Don't be afraid to make friends. Some of the people sitting beside you today may one day save your life." The audience applauded enthusiastically.
The host stepped forward.
"And with that, the ceremony has officially come to an end. Please locate your dormitories, get settled, familiarize yourselves with the campus, and get enough rest. Classes begin tomorrow morning."
Groans and mumbles erupted throughout the auditorium.
They couldn't even give them one day to rest?
Who starts school on a Sunday?
The audience slowly began filing out.
A cheerful voice echoed through the speaker.
"First-year students, remember to register on AcademyNet with your student ID to access your departments, dormitories, campus tours, and afternoon orientation activities. Welcome to Royal Veil Academy, and enjoy your first day!"
The once-orderly rows quickly turned into a lively crowd.
Students filed out with their families, some said their goodbyes, others registered their accounts. Some immediately headed toward the dormitories.
The noise was overwhelming.
Dahlia stood near one of the exits, unsure of what to do. She had no idea whether AcademyNet was available to staff.
"Excuse me." Dahlia turned.
A chubby woman in a dark green dress stood behind her with a soft smile. "You must be Miss Dahlia, our newest instructor."
"Yes." Dahlia rubbed her temples, "i was beginning to think I'd spend the whole day wandering the school. why is this place so huge?"
The woman laughed. "I'm Professor Lilian, the research teacher and homeroom teacher for Second-Year C Class. The principal asked me to show you around"
"I'd appreciate that." Dahlia folded her arms.
They stepped onto a moving walkway that carried people across the enormous campus.
Dahlia smiled 'A lazy person's joy.'
"Also, what's the deal with the alphabetical class rankings?" She asked.
"Oh, that." Professor Lilian gave a small laugh.
"The academy groups students according to their abilities and power scale." She gestured toward a group of students wearing gold vests.
"S class, also called the Supreme class, is the class for students with strong or rare abilities. They are the ones wearing gold vests." She paused to make sure Dahlia was listening.
She pointed toward another group. "A Class is the Elite Class. These are highly skilled students whose abilities rank just below S Class. They're the ones wearing silver vests."
Dahlia nodded.
Great. Another social hierarchy.
"B Class is the Advanced Class. Students with above-average abilities. They're the ones wearing dark-red vests."
Dahlia remembered the bully from earlier. 'He isn't even all that, yet he's still cocky. I'd be embarrassed to be his teacher.'
"C Class is the Intermediate Class. They have reliable abilities and make up the largest group in the school. They are the ones wearing dark green vests." Professor Lilian continued.
"And D Class?"
"The Basic Class. These students have weaker but practical abilities, many are scholarship students or students who entered through exceptional academic performance."
Dahlia glanced around. "Uhh... are you missing something?"
Professor Lilian blinked. "What?"
"What about my class?"
"Oh" Professor Lilian's expression suddenly became awkward. "Right."
She cleared her throat. "You're the homeroom teacher for X Class."
Dahlia raised an eyebrow. "X Class?"
Professor Lilian nodded. "Yes."
There was a brief silence. "It's been a while since they've had a homeroom teacher."
"How long?"
"Since last year."
Dahlia stared at her. "And what happened to their previous teacher?"
Professor Lilian suddenly became very interested in the scenery. "They quit."
"Why?"
Another pause. "Personal reasons."
Dahlia narrowed her eyes, that sounded suspicious. She had wondered why she had been accepted so easily when she first applied.
And worse...
She had only six students, two of them were repeating their first year. She had initially assumed the academy had simply given her an unusually small class.
Now she was beginning to suspect she'd been tricked into accepting a group of problem students.
Noticing that Professor Lilian wasn't saying much about her students. Dahlia decided not to pry further, she'd find out more about them later.
"Royal Veil Academy is divided into six main districts." Professor Lilian began. She pointed toward a towering building.
"That's the Academic District. Most classrooms, lecture halls, libraries, and research laboratories are located there." They passed an enormous area covered by a transparent dome.
"That is the Training district. You won't notice the barrier unless you look carefully. Every arena is protected by multiple safety systems."
They passed a huge square building that looked almost like a skyscraper.
"That is the Medical District. It contains hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and emergency treatment facilities for students and staff."
Soon, they reached a massive city-like area. "The Residential District houses both students and staff. Students live in apartment dormitories with their classmates. Teachers and senior staff receive private apartments."
Professor Lilian gestured toward a distant tower. "That's the Administration Building. The principal's office, faculty meeting rooms, payroll, and staff services are all located there."
"And finally..." She pointed toward another bustling section of the campus.
"The Recreation District. Cafés, restaurants, convenience stores, sports facilities, shopping malls, parks, and club buildings are all located there."
Dahlia stared. "This place is practically a city."
"It often feels like one." Professor Lilian nodded.
They eventually arrived at a quiet, tree-lined avenue where elegant apartment buildings stood beside a sparkling lake.
Professor Lilian stopped in front of a modern building. "This is Staff Residence Three."
The entrance doors opened automatically. "Each teacher receives a private suite consisting of a bedroom, living room, bathroom, kitchen, and study. Utilities and basic food supplies are covered by the academy. Anything you purchase privately is your responsibility."
Dahlia nodded approvingly. 'Okay, this part I like.'
Inside, the corridors were bright and peaceful.
"Classes begin tomorrow at eight o'clock sharp," Professor Lilian continued. "Once you sign into AcademyNet, you'll find your timetable, classroom assignments, teaching materials, and navigation guide. The academy updates schedules automatically."
"What about the dress code?" Dahlia asked. She hated wearing uniforms and had been silently praying there wasn't a strict dress code.
"Anything is fine as long as it's decent. Just remember to carry your staff ID at all times."
They stopped outside Room 006.
Professor Lilian handed Dahlia a sleek silver key card. "This is your room. It's also linked to your phone and staff ID. If you lose one, the other will still grant you access."
Dahlia accepted it with a grateful smile.
"One last piece of advice." Professor Lilian's expression became thoughtful.
"Our students are exceptionally gifted. Some come from powerful families, while others fought against impossible odds just to earn a place here
"
She looked directly at Dahlia. "Treat them fairly, some will test your patience, some will surprise you."
She smiled knowingly. "And a few..."
She paused. "...may cause you problems."
Dahlia raised her brows. 'Of course they will.'
"Just persist." With that, Professor Lilian gave her a polite nod and walked away.
Dahlia stared after her.
That was not reassuring at all.
She turned toward her door. Taking a deep breath, she placed the key card against the scanner. The door slid open.
The living room was warm and cozy. It wasn't as large as her usual living room, but it was exactly her style.
Dahlia smiled. She made a mental note to visit the shopping mall after class tomorrow and buy a few things to make her new home feel more welcoming.
Tomorrow would be her first real day as a teacher at Royal Veil Academy.
Finally... a peaceful beginning.
She stepped inside.
Her phone chimed. She glanced at the screen.
ACADEMYNET REGISTRATION COMPLETE.
She tapped the notification and her timetable appeared.
STAFF MEMBER: DAHLIA MONROE
POSITION: HOMEROOM TEACHER
ASSIGNED CLASS: X CLASS
STUDENTS: 6
Dahlia pressed her lips together. Six students, easy enough. She scrolled down, The screen loaded. Then froze.
A red warning appeared.
ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS: RESTRICTED
Dahlia blinked. "...What?"
She tapped the screen again, still nothing. Another notification appeared.
ABILITY CLASSIFICATION: UNAVAILABLE
Dahlia stared at the screen. "What kind of school hides its students' records from their own teacher?" She dropped onto the sofa.
"Honestly, I hate teaching as much as I hate this hot weather." She fanned herself with her hands.
Tomorrow couldn't possibly be worse. Right?
Probably...
