Colder than Ice: Volume 1

Chapter 1.2

2

"Good morning, new students — my name is Chabashira Sae. I am in charge of Class D this year and will teach you Magic History. As a graduate of Tokyo University, I majored in Fire Magic and minored in Ice." Upon hearing her profound background, Vlad whistled and clapped.

I partook in the moment of applause with my classmates, but not because of her stellar achievements. Sensei's cultivation didn't stop at just Fire and Ice; she's also keeping a third element to herself.

Wishing to continue with her introductory remarks, Chabashira-sensei killed our appreciation and ignored the sour expressions of many.

"We do not change classrooms for each grade, as I will be your homeroom teacher for the next three years. Although the entrance ceremony will begin after everyone awakens an element, I will hand out a list of special rules for this school. Please read over them before I cover the basics," requested Sensei — lacking passion in her voice; it didn't stop a few of our classmates from perking up at the mention of awakening.

Admission guides were given to each column and distributed slowly.

"Here you go, Ayanokouji-kun," said the gleeful Kushida.

After thanking her, a question was asked by the young man to my right.

"So, how about it? Are you three excited about awakening an element?" he asked in a low voice, choosing not to address Horikita's disrespectful glare.

"Why would I feel excited?"
"Who knows."
"Mhm!"

"Great talk..."

Before Vlad could turn his head around, I nodded in response to his secret message. His opening question suggested that I think about our plan one more time. It's an interesting topic that involves 'background' being used as an advantage — and of course, I can see a few classmates who fit the bill.

For any 15-year-old who enters high school after gaining an element, it's a common assumption that a sponsor had loaned an expensive awakening stone to them. In fact, it's ordinary for wealthy families to engage in this transaction.

Most parents want their children to awaken the same element as them; they will use guided awakenings on their fifteenth birthday or the Christmas after — a memorable event for the adolescent, success or not.

Alternatively, some families challenge their children to wait until high school and leave everything to chance. I suppose it's an ultimate test of talent.

"I take it that everyone has glanced at the rules." Chabashira-sensei gave us little time to read, likely to summarize the essentials for us. "The curriculum for this trimester is straightforward. You will learn about Magic Star Paths, Mathematics, Physics, Japanese Literature, English, Physical Education, and Magic History."

My finger traced a page that described our timetable in the exact order.

"For this month, each student has received 100,000 Yen — all converted to a currency we call Private Points. Everyone is issued a Student ID in the form of an all-inclusive cell phone to manage their finances."

"Seriously?!"
"We get that much money?!"
"No way, teach!"

Numerous delightful faces were amazed by the school's sudden generosities. Hands raised out of curiosity, but it wasn't the time for questions yet.

"For reference, 1 Yen is equivalent to 1 Private Point. If anyone was wondering, deposits are on the first of every month. You can buy anything with Private Points at this school, so go wild," Sensei monotonously encouraged us.