Chapter 2: F-Rank Nobody
Ugh.
I could barely raise my head. Due to last night's revelation, my sleep was more than lacking.
"To circulate your soul..."
Professor Bhule's voice turned to static. My head knocked over again and again.
This first lecture of his was important. It taught a majority of the basics for those becoming pioneers. Without it, you're pretty much sentencing yourself to death at that point.
I need to stay awake!
Forcefully, I kept my eyes open. Paying attention here was more important than sleep. A lack of information only further increases my chances of death.
"For those unaware, an evaluation of one's soul has three essential factors that can determine the strength of a pioneer."
My ears perked up at Professor Bhule's words.
"The first is your stats."
Taking his chalk, professor Bhule began writing on the board.
Strength - The physical capabilities of the individual.
Vitality - The endurance and resilience of an individual.
Focus - The concentration capabilities of an individual.
Intelligence - The knowledge and thinking capacity of an individual.
Moxie - The charisma and charm of an individual.
Vessel - The capacity of an individual's soul.
"These six values and how they are graded is how the gods help us humans evaluate ourselves."
Yeah... that one is a total failure.
I do have two stats with an overall average grade of C. But their importance in a battle setting isn't optimal.
Intelligence is valued highly by some, but moxie is different. Its usefulness outside of human interaction is zero. The only real benefit a high moxie stat can provide is quick thinking and wit.
I'm not trying to become a standup comedian while I'm here!
Thankfully, if you train yourself hard enough in a particular direction, your stats can be increased. The only problem is the grading of your stats can hinder their growth.
So no matter how hard I work, I'll never catch up to those around me.
What else do you have for me Professor Bhule?
"The second essential factor is your class."
Hmm.
I felt a tinge of hope grow within my tired self.
A class could be a life changer!
"For those of you that have already received your evaluations, you might have noticed that there was nothing available for you to choose. That's because every class has a condition behind it."
Classes were a unique opportunity for those who awaken. It was a blessing bestowed upon us by Earth's gods. Without it, the pioneers of the past would not have had the ability to fend off The Empty.
I had completely glossed over it last night in my nervous rage. But if I obtained the ideal class, I might be able to survive Sword Academy.
Now all that's left is to meet the conditions.
"I'm going to pass out a data pamphlet for everyone. It will inform you of different beginner lectures around campus. These lectures will fulfill the conditions for whichever class they're advertising."
*****
Alright! A fresh plan is put into action. Time to earn some classes!
After looking over the pamphlet, I decided to attend these lectures.
Basics of Scana - Scout class conditions unlock
Basics of Arcana - Arcane class conditions unlock
Basics of Aura - Warrior class conditions unlock
Basics of Endo - Guardian class conditions unlock
There was a plethora of lectures to attend on the pamphlet. I chose these specifically due to them being actual lectures.
If you are wondering what I mean by that...
*BOOM!*
A loud explosion came from one of the lecture halls just a few doors down.
Well, let's just say my chances of obtaining a class were higher...
For my first lecture; The basics of Scana, I was introduced to Professor Hemlock. She was a woman in her late twenties. Her short black hair and grey formal clothes added an air of professionalism. Although, unfortunately, her monotonous voice didn't provide much of a wake-up call.
And so, again, I struggled to stay awake.
"Everyone, have you all received the necessary material?"
Professor Hemlock had handed out to us a specific medium known as Scandine. Although restricted to use only in this lecture, the small turquoise ring we received was essential for scouts.
Scandine allows you to convert the outer layer of your soul into Scana. Scana is well known by Awakened for being very easy to learn. It applies itself to your nervous system, enhancing your five senses.
Although not as strong in combat, scouts use Scana to survey the surroundings of the labyrinths. It's essential when navigating and when searching for mediums.
It may not be my first choice, but the scout class can play a majority of sub-roles alongside navigation. The actual conditions for obtaining said class are simple.
Use Scana once.
"Alright everyone, please practice the steps I explained a moment ago."
The only problem with that condition is...
...I can't use it.
Now, Professor Hemlock gave clear instructions.
First, focus your attention on one of your five senses while in contact with the ring.
Second, search for a specific feeling in your chest.
Third, once you find that feeling, shift it to the sense your attention is focused on.
I followed her words to a T. Most people with that alone can use Scana immediately. There's just one problem I'm facing.
[Focus - 3 (F Grade)]
My focus is shit.
I've always had trouble concentrating since my childhood. This stat is just shoving that fact right in my face.
When manipulating and shaping the outer layer of your soul, a strong focus is required. So at this point, in my sleep-deprived state, it's near impossible without prior practice.
"Excuse me."
A girl's voice came from my left. By her uniform, I could tell she was a member of The Scarlet Phoenix House.
"Is something the matter?" I asked the girl.
"U-uh, well it's a bit embarrassing to admit, but I fell asleep and missed the professor's instructions earlier."
'I can't fault you there miss... it took every fiber of my being to make sure I didn't pass out before.'
I silently agreed with her. But this girl chose the wrong person to ask for help. I can't even help myself right now.
At the very least, I gave her the same instructions I heard from Professor Hemlock. And within 10 seconds of hearing my explanation...
"Woah! This is crazy, my vision is going all wacky!"
You have got to be kidding me. Is it even possible to learn a medium that fast?
"T-that's quite impressive. Do you perhaps have experience using Scana?"
"Huh? No, this is my first time."
I've heard there are a few people out there that have an innate talent for using specific mediums. Was she one of them?
'Damn, geniuses!'
*****
I walked to my next lecture defeated. Even after a whole hour of practicing, no results came about.
On the bright side, I'll be allowed to practice with Scandine as much as I want as long as I attend Professor Hemlock's lecture.
On the downside, I've now got a bug stuck to me.
"What's your favorite TV genre? I'm a fan of dramas! Oh! Do you watch any dramas?"
'This girl is so annoying!'
She asked me earlier at the end of our lecture if I was attending any other lectures for the day. When I told her the next lecture I was attending was The Basics of Arcana, she invited herself along and has been following me ever since.
Even when I kept my mouth shut and responded with minimal answers, she would continue the conversation on her own.
"Oh, now that I think about it. I never asked for your name did I?"
"Holland."
"I'm Madelyn. Oh! I forgot I wanted to ask you about this one thing..."
I'm only a few hours into my first day and I already feel like I'm going crazy.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
EMX
EMX Thanks for reading everyone!
Sorry for shortened second chapter. I'll be posting the third later today!
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