Reborn as an Extra Chapter 4 First Day In The Academy!
Previously on Reborn as an Extra...
Throughout the entire month, Rio pushed his limits in the academy's compact training chamber. Every learner in this institution receives a personal practice space. A mere 1000 pupils, handpicked from across the globe, secure spots in this elite academy. He couldn't help but marvel at how the prior Rio managed entry without a single tie.
It emerged that a reserved quota system governs admissions. Offspring from everyday households or those without parents get picked at random from the pool of applicants. Roughly 100 positions are set aside for such youths, granting them access to the academy gratis, regardless of lacking influential links.
Astonishingly, the initial Rio numbered among those fortunate 100 youngsters. The central hero springs from that very group as well, hailing from a household of average folk.
"Let's check my progress this month."
[Name: Rio Flash]
[Class: Swordsman]
[Rank: D-] [Max Rank Potential: No limit(X)]
[HP: 1000/1000] [MP: 400/400]
[STR: 42/100] [SPE: 33/100] [AGI: 31/100] [DEF: 39/100] [INT: 29/100]
[Talent: Limitless(X), Sword Aptitude(X)]
[Techniques: Basic swordsmanship(D-), Elemental Sword Art(D-)]
[Skills: Body Strengthening(E+), Lightning Sword(E+)]
[Evaluation: You are an absolute anomaly!; although you are weak now your potential is unlimited!]
"I've already attained D- rank; it's owing to my boosted sword aptitude that my advancement flowed so effortlessly, yet once I hit D-rank proper, the pace will drop sharply."
Evidently, that grueling regimen yielded results.
'I need to head out for the entrance ceremony now; arriving tardy would mean penalties. This academy enforces its timetable with ironclad rigor.' (Rio)
After a brisk 15-minute stroll, Rio stood before the assembly hall and stepped inside promptly.
'The place is packed with students already; better snag a seat quick!' (Rio)
Precisely at 9 a.m., the hall's doors sealed shut, and darkness enveloped everything save the stage's glow. A stunning woman then graced the platform and launched into her address:
"Greetings, students; delighted to make your acquaintance. I am Raji Croft, principal of this academy and an SS Rank awakened."
The revelation sparked an uproar throughout the venue, with pupils buzzing in thrilled whispers to one another.
"Oh my god! The fabled Raji Croft, among the trio of SS rank humans and the mightiest frost mage, stands right here before me!"
A hyped boy to my left bellowed this at full volume. Naturally, Rio too felt a jolt of awe upon beholding her—not just for her striking allure, but as one of Earth's sole three SS rank humans. No SSS ranks exist among humans or any other species here, given the immense hurdles to that pinnacle; thus, SS ranks embody a race's might.
Elves boast four SS-ranked members. The mere existence of an SS rank suffices to safeguard a species' endurance in this realm. Those lacking such powerhouses must serve as vassals to stronger kin, and some perish outright when an SS rank dungeon erupts in their lands. Historical records note scant SS-rank dungeons.
No SSS rank dungeon has surfaced to date. Yet, as one might anticipate, the lead protagonist shall ascend to SSS rank ahead, thwarting a cataclysmic SSS rank dungeon to rescue humanity, claiming beauties, subjugating rival races, and so on.
Following a solid half-hour oration, the top-ranking freshman took the stage.
'And now, enter the chief antagonist.'
"Please join me in welcoming our top first-year student this term, Link Rex."
Link Rex serves as this tale's primary foe, born into the loftiest pedigree imaginable as the sole heir to SS rank awakened and Awakener's Association chief, Ashtel Rex. Blessed with SS rank promise, Link underwent paternal martial drills from childhood.
An exceptionally gifted soul, Link could evolve into an SSS rank via innate prowess alone if granted sufficient years. He poses the gravest trial, tormenting the hero endlessly. Outwardly courteous and benevolent, he harbors sadistic depths. He'll traverse any boundary to seize his desires—a flawless, chilling adversary.
Link commands legions of followers, shadowed eternally by an S-rank protector.
'This fellow spells peril; I must steer clear at all costs.'
Solely the core hero, Fade Crest, can rival that scoundrel. Still, Fade requires ages to amass the strength for victory. Link currently holds D+ rank, and per the story, he'll climb to C rank post midterms.
"Proceed now to your assigned classrooms; may each of you strive diligently to bolster humanity's cause henceforth!" (Raji)
One after another, the students filed out of the hall, Rio trailing in their wake. Moments later, he arrived at his classroom door.
"A-3—that's the class shared with the hero and the key side figures. Seems my school days here will brim with turmoil."
He swung the door open and strode in confidently. A quick survey complete, he claimed the right-side third desk by the window. Soon, seats filled as classmates settled, some launching into chatter.
In his past existence, Rio always preferred solitude, harboring no desire for mingling.
Shortly thereafter, a stern-visaged woman entered, her eyes sweeping over the group appraisingly. She too qualified as a stunning figure, though shy of the principal's radiance.
"From this point, I serve as your class instructor, and I presume you're aware of my identity."
Indeed, she embodies an S-ranked fire mage, Anna Datt.