Chapter 65
Magnus woke up early as if he needed sleep its something he decided to do just to stay connected and have normal routine as he was fairly adjusting slowly toward what he wanted to experience, as he gently stood up and gave Alex a kiss on the forehead and went out of their room and started preparing breakfast, the smell of food in the morning resonate with the things Magnus like, among the thousand worlds he find it smoothing to be human, their daily routine and habits to cling toward their evolve habitual actions align to what he like. while preparing the dining table was near his window it was slightly open and the cold chill of the morning breeze touch his skin , he felt it the cold, because he wanted to feel it. human sensation with his senses were peculiar to him but if felt nice. now he can process this things. the restriction on his powers were just discipline and self control, now he gets it, the act of restricting was not a system of control over his awareness, he thought i was in the past. but i reality its just absolute mental and control over what he can and only needed to do
For Magnus has process and truly understood the "restriction" on his power was never a cage, it was a choice. In the past, he believed limiting himself meant dulling his awareness, shrinking what he was. Now he understands it is the opposite: true control is knowing what not to use. By deciding to feel cold air, to smell food, to follow a morning routine, he is not weakening himself but refining his will. Power no longer defines his actions; intention does. This discipline anchors him to the human world, teaching him that restraint is not loss, but mastery, proof that he can stand among mortals not as a god pretending to be human, but as a being who chooses to live like one.
he was annoyed about the 5 year time blimp that humans called his sister action, but he can also see the positive side of this, as Alexa and the others that was part of the time distortion adapted quickly and knowing to accept it was the fastest answer toward questions thay really cant understand, a call came in and it woke up Alexa she took the call and responded , she ended the call and came out of the room while she still held their blanket and walk out into the kitchen with still with exhausted expression on her face as magnus greeted her good morning and poured her a cup of coffee.
Alexa sat on the dining table chair near the window, she looked at Magnus and smirk and spoke " you are like a machine last night, you nearly broke me in half" magnus didn't respond and just spoke " here drink your coffee while its still hot," Alexa responded with a yawn ,
"we haven't done it for a while but last night was beyond normal, that's 7 time s in a row, you rough me and rode me like a bull"
Magnus placed the mug gently in front of her and met her eyes, calm but sincere."I wasn't trying to be rough," he said quietly. "I just… missed you more than I realized. But if I went too far, say it. I don't want to be a storm, you're not something I want to overpower. You're someone I want to take care of."
Then, with a faint smile, he added, "Drink your coffee first. Complaints should be filed after breakfast."
" it was just felt different last night, as if you are more passionate more natural, you are good looking and physically attractive, don't get this the wrong way but in the past you were somewhat someone who is rigid, inflexible, and formal, often displaying strict adherence to rules or routines and discomfort in social situations " Alexa smiles " i liked that in you , because i admire men with control and discipline"
Magnus was quiet for a moment after her question, as if choosing the exact shape of his words mattered.
"In a way… yes," he answered. "I was born with too much inside me. Power, awareness, instincts that didn't belong in a normal life. Growing up wasn't about learning how to live like others. It was about learning how not to."
He leaned against the counter, eyes steady but distant.
Magnus listened without interrupting, his expression unreadable at first. When she said the word alexithymia, he tilted his head slightly, as if testing the sound of it.
"…Emotional blindness," he repeated.
Magnus nodded slowly, his gaze steady on her.
"I understand," he said, his voice calm but thoughtful. "It's not that I don't feel. I feel, intensely, sometimes, but translating it… into words, into actions… that part has always been slower. Cautious. Calculated. I've seen what happens when I act without control."
He paused, letting her words settle between them.
"So yes," he continued, "at times I may seem apathetic. Detached. But it's not indifference. It's self-preservation. Filtering, measuring… making sure what I do doesn't harm you, or anyone else."
His tone softened almost unconsciously."But with you… I want to bridge that gap. To not just feel something physically, but to let it flow and show it… even if it's messy."
He didn't sound offended; if anything, he seemed thoughtful."You're probably right," he admitted. "I can recognize emotions. I can predict reactions. But feeling them in real time… that's slower. Delayed. Like reading a language I was never taught, only memorized."
When she joked about sharing the same condition, the corner of his mouth lifted faintly."Then that makes us compatible in a strange way," he said. "You learned to live without clear emotional signals. I learned to live without trusting mine."
He stepped closer, lowering his voice."But understand this: what I feel for you is not absent. It is deliberate. Chosen. I may not always react the way you expect, but when I stay, when I protect, when I touch you, those are not habits."
A brief pause."They are decisions. And for someone like me… that is the closest thing to instinct."
He looked back at her, voice softening further."But being with you… changes the equation. For the first time, I don't feel like letting go means losing myself. It feels like I'm choosing who I want to be, instead of merely containing what I am."
A small exhale escaped him."So no, I wasn't born rigid. I was born lacking . in so many ways, rigid is what I had to become… to find a sensible answer to what i wanted to understand and experience."
Alexa smiled softly, her fingers tracing the rim of her coffee cup."You're a gorgeous human being," she said, her voice low, almost reverent. "I love the way you look at me… as if I'm the only person in the room."
Magnus' gaze softened, the usual calm intensity in his eyes now warm."And you are," he replied simply, deliberate. "You've always been."
She hesitated, swallowing past a lump in her throat. "I… I get scared sometimes. When other women look at you, or when I notice… how easily they notice you. Trusting my feelings… it was hard. Because you are who you are."
Magnus reached across the table, brushing a loose strand of hair from her face. His touch was gentle, but charged with intention."I know," he said quietly. "I know how you feel. And I can't pretend it doesn't matter to me… that it doesn't affect me, too. But what I feel for you, it's real. It's… you. Nothing else."
Alexa leaned slightly into his hand, her eyes searching his."But you're so… good looking. Too good. And I can see how many would… desire you."
Magnus smiled faintly, a small, almost shy smile she rarely saw."They might," he admitted. "But I don't see them. Not like I see you. Not with this."
He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it softly."Everything I am, everything I have… it's yours. You've been patient, and you've waited for me in ways that… I never realized I needed until now. And I'm grateful. Grateful to you, for letting me learn how to be human with you."
Alexa's lips curved into a small, genuine smile, relief and love mingling in her eyes."So… you're mine," she whispered.
Magnus' voice was quiet, steady, and full of unshakable certainty."No, Alexa… we're ours. And I've never wanted anything else."
Alexa took a deep breath, her chest rising and falling as if she had been holding back years of tension. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, and she looked directly at Magnus, every word weighted with honesty.
"I… I never thought I'd say this," she began, her voice trembling slightly, "but I've never fallen in love with a man like this. I've had my fair share of relationships… you know that. But… they all wanted the same thing. The same temporary… convenience, fleeting passion."
Her hand found his again, gripping it tightly. "With you… I offered myself freely. Openly. Not out of obligation, not to test something, not because it was expected. I wanted to give it… because I wanted to. Because it's you."
Magnus remained silent, his expression unreadable but his eyes burning with attention, absorbing every word.
"I've never… shared this with anyone," she whispered, voice thick, "but you're the only man I've ever been with. You're the first… and you'll be the last. And that's not fear or hesitation, it's certainty. I've never felt like this before. You've made me feel seen, wanted… loved, in a way I didn't know was possible."
Her lips quivered, and she leaned closer, resting her forehead against his. "I'm not afraid anymore… not of anyone else, not of what could happen, not of… us. You are it, Magnus. You're the one I choose, every single time. And I don't need to wonder about anything else."
Magnus' hand rose to cradle her cheek, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. For a moment, he didn't speak, he simply let the weight of her confession settle between them. Then, his voice, low and steady, carried an intimacy that matched hers.
"You've never needed to fear," he murmured. "Because I am yours. First, last… always."
Her tears finally spilled, but they were of relief, of love, of the freedom she had waited so long to feel. And for the first time, in that quiet morning, both of them sat together, fully present, letting the world outside pause while they existed solely in the truth of their love.
Alexa's phone buzzed insistently against the table, cutting through the quiet intimacy she shared with Magnus. She groaned, reaching for it, her brow furrowing.
"Ugh… seriously?" she muttered, swiping to answer.
"Hello?" she said, her tone a mix of irritation and duty.
"Vice-Leader Nakamura here," came the crisp, youthful voice. "Satoshi."
Alexa's eyes widened slightly in recognition. "Oh… Satoshi. What is it?" Her tone softened slightly, but the annoyance lingered.
Satoshi, now 20, had taken over leadership responsibilities of the Horizon Guard while she and Magnus had been trapped in the Delta Rift. He was just 15 then, a boy thrust into a position of authority, learning fast. "Ma'am… sorry to bother at this hour, but it's regarding Overflow University and the Awakened Training Facility unification.
as many College students are manifesting their awaken abilities, and under the law created a few years ago that came from the Divinity, all registered and unregistered Awakened must report directly to the expanded facility. We need your guidance on coordination."
" I have already requested Lyca Rodollf but she has responded to my call."
Alexa pinched the bridge of her nose, exhaling a small sigh. "Satoshi… you know the timing, right? We were… busy. And we're still adjusting after everything that happened."
Alexa nodded slowly, absorbing Satoshi's words. "I see… so it's standardized now. Unlike before, when awakenings were sporadic, random, and unpredictable, the Seven Rift events changed everything. Now, every Awakened manifests their abilities at 18. That… actually makes coordination easier, but the scale is enormous."
Satoshi's voice softened slightly, sensing her hesitation. "Exactly, ma'am. It's still a huge adjustment for the facility. We're trying to integrate hundreds of new Awakened at once, while maintaining safety and proper training."
Magnus, watching quietly, added thoughtfully, "The law is mandatory, yes… but the human factor, the emotion, the inexperience, these are variables that the system can't fully control. It will require guidance, supervision, and understanding, not just orders."
Alexa let out a small sigh, rubbing her temple. "It's… overwhelming. But it's necessary. The Awakened need structure now, especially with the number of rifts that appear every year. Satoshi, make sure your team coordinates with the new facilitators, and don't overstep. I'll handle the senior oversight personally."
Satoshi hesitated before replying, "Understood, ma'am. I'll inform the others immediately. Thank you."
Alexa hung up, her expression a mix of resolve and fatigue. She glanced at Magnus. "That… was unavoidable. But at least now I know the scale, and we can plan properly."
Magnus reached for her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "We've seen worse. This… this is just organization. You'll handle it. And I'll help."
She smiled faintly, leaning against him. "I know. But it's moments like this… I wish the world could just pause, even for a little while."
Magnus simply nodded, understanding the weight she carried. "One step at a time. One task at a time. We adjust, as always.
The Overflow Academy had changed more than anyone could have anticipated. Now directly overseen by the Awakened Training Facility, the academy had become a hybrid of traditional higher education and specialized power development. Nearly ninety percent of all eighteen-year-old college students now manifested abilities, creating a scale of supervision and instruction that had never existed before. Classrooms were no longer merely lecture halls, they were controlled environments for mana calibration, practical exercises, and ethical guidance. The curriculum had expanded to include lessons on emotional control, social responsibility, and the consequences of misuse.
It was clear to the administrators that this was a critical age. At eighteen, students were at the cusp of independence, impulsive and curious, prone to choices that could irreversibly affect their futures. Left unguided, even minor mistakes could escalate into disasters, both mundane and supernatural. The Awakened Training Facility implemented rigorous mentorship programs, pairing experienced facilitators with student cohorts to channel their abilities responsibly, all while balancing academic requirements.
However, issues were inevitable. The survivors of the Time Blimp anomaly, those who had been trapped inside the Seven Rifts, remained hidden. Social stigma, fear, and misunderstanding had forced them into the shadows, creating a layer of secrecy within an already complex system. For this reason, Alexa and a select team of her trusted Awakened were tasked not just with teaching and mentoring but also with safeguarding these students' histories. Their presence at the academy had to remain discreet, their interactions calculated to avoid revealing identities or past experiences.
Alexa understood the challenge. The first- and second-year students were manageable; their personalities were still malleable, their social behavior could be steered with consistent guidance. But the third- and fourth-year students were a different matter. They had developed their own social networks, opinions, and, in some cases, reckless tendencies. Managing them would require both authority and empathy, subtlety and decisiveness.
Magnus had agreed to join the effort, sensing that this was another step in understanding the human condition, its emotions, impulses, and decisions. Unlike his past interventions, this was an environment grounded in observation, interaction, and personal influence rather than cosmic oversight. It was, in his mind, a new experience to gain, one that demanded patience, calculation, and, surprisingly, restraint.
As the academy prepared for its first full semester under the new system, the Overflow Academy stood as a testament to humanity's adaptation. Students would learn not only to wield power but to understand the responsibility it demanded, and those guiding them, like Alexa and Magnus, were learning just as much about the fragile, beautiful, and sometimes chaotic nature of human choice.
The morning light filtered through the curtains of their apartment as Alexa drew a long, hot bath. Steam rose, curling around her as she let the warmth wash over her tense muscles. After months of the world moving on without them, and the constant strain of managing awakened students, she welcomed this rare quiet moment. She closed her eyes, letting herself relax, thinking through the plans for the Overflow Academy today: which classrooms to visit, which first- and second-year students she would supervise, and which potentially problematic third- and fourth-years she would need to watch carefully.
Meanwhile, Magnus, fully dressed and impeccably composed, sat at the small dining table, phone in hand. His voice was calm, precise, as he spoke to the administrative office where he was registered as an Awakened.
"I need to take leave for the day," he said. "Yes… personal matters. It is already arranged with Alexa; she'll be assisting the Overflow Academy today. Confirmed." His tone carried the subtle weight of authority; they could sense he was not to be questioned. With that, the call ended, and he allowed himself a brief moment to prepare mentally for the day. Teaching young Awakened who were nearly their own age required patience, tact, and discretion, especially when they could not reveal their own experiences inside the Time Blimp anomaly.
After finishing her bath, Alexa dressed in simple yet functional attire, choosing clothing that allowed freedom of movement. Her hair was damp but neatly tied, and she checked her gear, a set of communication devices, a small notebook, and a protective pendant that could shield against minor Noid interference. Magnus, ever precise, carried only what was necessary: a tablet with records of student powers, a compact defensive wand, and his personal tools for mana calibration.
They left their apartment, the crisp morning air of the city brushing against them, and began their walk toward the Overflow Academy. Magnus's movements were fluid, his senses subtly aware of everything around him, the shifting currents of ambient mana, the presence of other Awakened nearby, even the subtle glances of pedestrians who felt something familiar yet unpeaceable about him. Alexa matched his pace, comfortable in the quiet solidarity of their shared mission.
Arriving at the Academy, they were greeted by the hum of activity: students moving between classes, instructors preparing for demonstrations, and the faint buzz of mana in the air, signaling the new abilities awakening in these eighteen-year-olds. They entered through the staff wing, showing credentials to the security Awakened, and were quickly recognized by some of the older professors, those who had been at the academy before the Seven Rift event. A few gave subtle nods of recognition, eyes lingering as though memories of past students flashed briefly.
Most of the faculty, however, were new. Young, entitled, and brimming with confidence, many held rank C+ and saw their positions as privileges rather than responsibilities. They greeted Alexa and Magnus with polite but measured acknowledgment, some with subtle airs of arrogance, assuming these two were merely instructors passing through rather than veterans of the anomaly. Magnus responded with quiet professionalism, projecting authority without condescension, while Alexa's presence carried a calm yet firm assurance.
Throughout the morning, they moved between classrooms, laboratories, and training fields. Alexa monitored students performing controlled exercises, correcting their form, offering guidance on mana flow and ethical application of their powers. Magnus assisted the professors, calibrating mana-sensitive equipment, advising on force output, and discreetly testing the limits of the younger Awakened, all while ensuring that none of the students suspected the depth of their true experience.
Even during breaks, interactions were subtle. Alexa exchanged casual words with the staff, maintaining her cover while gauging which instructors were competent and which were more concerned with prestige. Magnus observed quietly, stepping in only when necessary, his calm and deliberate manner reminding others that experience often outweighed raw power.
Despite the efficiency of their actions, both were acutely aware of the tension beneath the surface. Some of the new faculty resented guidance from "outsiders," while others were openly competitive. The students, unaware of the hidden history of these two, were both intrigued and intimidated, sensing mastery and calm that exceeded the normal bounds of their age group.
By the end of the morning, Magnus and Alexa had completed the first round of supervision, reporting observations to the Academy Director. They had already identified potential troublemakers, students whose powers were raw but impulsive, and those who might be vulnerable to misuse of their abilities if left unchecked. The real challenge would come in managing the older students, third- and fourth-years, whose personalities had hardened, and whose awareness of the world had shifted in subtle but significant ways.
As they left the staff wing to regroup for the afternoon session, Magnus turned to Alexa.
"Today will be an exercise in restraint," he said quietly. "Observation, correction, subtle guidance. We cannot reveal more than necessary."
Alexa nodded, her expression firm yet calm. "I know. But we'll handle it. Like we always do."
And with that, they stepped back into the hum of the Academy, prepared to shape the next generation of Awakened, all while keeping the secret of their own pasts—and the Time Blimp anomaly, closely guarded.
Alexa, Magnus, and Kaelin Navaro stepped into the familiar yet bustling halls of Overflow Academy. Their eyes immediately caught the gleaming silver insignia of the Silver Owl Captain stationed near the entrance. The captain gave them a small nod, a silent acknowledgment of their presence.
Kaelin let out a quiet sigh, a mixture of relief and resignation. "I decided to take the offer," he said, his voice tinged with conflict. "Our group… like so many others, we've had an influx of members from the Time Blimp. Those of us who were part of the anomaly? Most of us are relegated to support now. It's policy, combat types entering acquired rifts are strictly regulated by Agency representatives."
He shook his head slightly. "Still… it's hard to watch. All that potential, all that experience, and we're mostly sidelined."
Alexa smiled warmly, placing a hand lightly on his shoulder. "I know exactly how you feel," she said. "I was placed in clerical documentation and guidance for the new members for a while. Someone has to make sure the next generation doesn't get lost in their abilities. It's tedious at times, but it matters."
Kaelin nodded thoughtfully, then turned toward Magnus. "So… Magnus, does this affect your hidden rank? Being regulated under these new policies?"
Magnus tilted his head slightly, considering the question. "It's… a new thing," he said quietly. "In the past, I hardly reacted to these matters. I simply did what needed to be done, without concern for titles or regulations."
Kaelin's eyes widened in surprise. "Are you really… Magnus? The same Magnus with the discreet codename?" His tone carried awe, disbelief, and skepticism all at once, as if trying to reconcile the legendary figure with the man standing before him.
Before Magnus could respond, Alexa slipped her hand through his arm, leaning in slightly. "This is the same Magnus," she said softly, playful yet affectionate. "But he's… turning a new leaf, at least in life. Ain't I right, honey?"
Magnus let out a small, almost shy smile, the stoicism that defined him softening. "Sorry for being so… stoic in the past," he admitted. "I have a condition, you see. It's called Alexithymia."
Kaelin raised an eyebrow and tapped Magnus on the shoulder lightly. "Treatable nowadays," he said with a faint grin. "Especially with all this supernatural stuff going on. Guess even legends need a little help understanding themselves."
Magnus chuckled quietly, low and restrained but genuine. "Perhaps," he replied. "But some things… even with all this power, still require patience."
Alexa squeezed his arm, eyes sparkling with warmth. "Then you'll have plenty of time, honey. And we'll figure it out… together."
Kaelin shook his head, smiling despite himself. "I can't believe it. Magnus… actually opening up. I didn't think I'd ever see the day."
Magnus gave a small nod, gaze steady. For a moment, the weight of centuries seemed lighter. In the hallway, among the hum of mana from nearby classrooms and the echoes of student footsteps, the three of them stood, aware of the changes in the Academy, in themselves, and in the world, and ready for whatever came next.
The three of them proceeded to the administrative wing of Overflow Academy, their footsteps echoing in the polished hallways. They entered a spacious office where stacks of documents awaited signatures regarding their new responsibilities in guiding the awakened students.
Behind the desk sat the Academy head, a woman with a sharp, professional air, but a face that seemed faintly familiar to Magnus. She glanced up as they approached, her eyes widening just slightly.
"Ah… good morning," she said, extending a hand. "I'm Samantha Hale, head of this facility."
Magnus inclined his head politely, accepting the handshake with calm precision. He noticed something flicker in her eyes, a recognition, an almost imperceptible spark, but he gave no acknowledgment beyond the professional gesture.
Alexa, however, caught it. Samantha Hale's gaze lingered on Magnus just a moment too long, a softness in her eyes that wasn't professional. A subtle inflection in her voice betrayed it.
"Still… gorgeous, I see," Samantha said quietly, almost to herself.
Alexa's ears twitched at the words. She glanced at Magnus, who maintained his usual composed expression, utterly unreadable, as if he hadn't heard, or chose not to react.
The atmosphere grew slightly awkward. Samantha's blushing lips and deliberate posture betrayed a mix of admiration and restraint, while Magnus's stoic calm contrasted sharply, making the tension between them almost palpable.
Alexa, for her part, chose not to react outwardly, though a small smirk tugged at the corner of her mouth. She noted the unspoken acknowledgment, stored it away, and let the moment pass. Magnus remained focused, eyes scanning the documents on the desk, fingers poised to sign.
Kaelin, sensing the subtle awkwardness, cleared his throat. "Shall we proceed?" he said, voice steady, though a knowing glance passed between him and Alexa.
Samantha smiled politely, her professional mask back in place. "Yes, of course. Here are the documents outlining your responsibilities with the students. Your signatures, please."
Magnus signed without hesitation, careful and deliberate. Alexa followed suit, as did Kaelin. Samantha Hale continued to watch him, but Magnus didn't meet her gaze, his attention fully on the paperwork and the task at hand.
The interaction ended as quickly as it had begun, leaving a subtle undercurrent of tension in the room. Samantha Hale's brief, almost imperceptible longing had been noticed, but Magnus, as always, gave nothing away. Alexa, fully aware, merely allowed herself a quiet inward smile, knowing her place beside him was secure.
The papers were signed. Their task was official. And as they left the office, the faint echo of unspoken recognition lingered, a small reminder of the world they navigated, one where emotions, past encounters, and hidden desires coexisted with duty, discipline, and the secrets they kept.
The new Overflow Academy sprawled across acres of landscaped grounds, a fusion of cutting-edge architecture and traditional academic design. Funded and expanded by the Awakened Agency, the campus now boasted a seamless integration of the Agency's training facilities with standard academic infrastructure. Sleek glass-and-steel towers rose alongside classical brick buildings, creating a skyline that gleamed under the morning sun. Courtyards and gardens punctuated the sprawling complex, giving students space to train, gather, and recover between their rigorous schedules.
The expansion had added three dedicated wings:
Training Complex Alpha, a multi-story facility equipped with simulated rift environments, combat arenas, and controlled mana-testing chambers. Here, the first-year students practiced the fundamentals of awakening control under close supervision, including elemental manipulation, combat drills, and emergency response simulations. Alexa had direct oversight of this wing, her eyes constantly scanning for potential threats or mismanaged exercises.
Scholastic Tower, which housed classrooms, lecture halls, and laboratories for magical theory, mana studies, and advanced tactics. Each floor was designed to facilitate group learning and individual study, with holographic projection units and automated assessment systems. Kaelin oversaw the third-year students here, monitoring their transition from fundamental mastery to applied field strategy, ensuring that those with emerging leadership potential were guided properly.
Strategic Command Hall, an immense facility designed for upper-level students, ranked fourth-year and above, to coordinate large-scale simulations and cross-wing operations. Magnus now supervised this area, his presence instilling discipline and focus among the senior batch. The hall included interactive holographic maps of known rift locations, real-time monitoring of ongoing anomalies, and tactical war rooms for planning training exercises and coordinated missions.
The Academy could now accommodate over 4,000 students simultaneously, with residential dormitories, communal dining halls, and recreational areas to ensure a balance between intense training and personal growth. Advanced mana-recharging stations, medical bays equipped for supernatural injuries, and tactical gear workshops allowed students to maintain peak readiness. Each student, regardless of year, had a monitored mana capacity tracker integrated into their uniforms, ensuring safe practice and assessment.
Alexa walked through the grounds with a measured gaze, taking note of the students moving through the courtyards. Many of the elites, those who had joined the Academy post-Time Blimp, still carried the same confidence and energy she remembered from her own youth. They were ambitious, often reckless, and prone to mischief, yet their raw potential was undeniable. At twenty-three, she appeared older than most first-years, though in Earth time she was technically twenty-eight. That discrepancy had little effect on her authority; experience, not age, was the currency here.
Kaelin moved in the opposite wing, his calm but imposing presence managing the third-years who tested the limits of their abilities. Magnus, in the fourth-year wing, surveyed his students from the command balcony, noting the subtle differences between those who had been born into awakened status versus those who had just manifested their powers. He silently calculated potential, discipline, and loyalty, always considering the future battlefield beyond the Academy walls.
Despite the new structures, the Academy's energy was familiar, chaotic at times, alive with youthful ambition, and full of untested power. Alexa knew managing the first-years would be a constant challenge, keeping them safe while nurturing their raw talent. Kaelin's third-years were already testing authority, and Magnus' fourth-years had the autonomy and raw skill to challenge even seasoned instructors.
The Overflow Academy had grown larger, more complex, and better equipped than ever, but the essence remained the same: a crucible for the Awakened, a place where potential was measured not just by raw power, but by control, judgment, and the ability to shape the future. And for Alexa, Kaelin, and Magnus, it was also a stage for them to navigate a world that had moved on, even as they retained the memories, and the experiences, of a past that few others could understand.
Alexa walked slowly down the polished hallways of the first-year wing, her steps quiet but deliberate. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting long patterns across the floor and highlighting the movement of students within the classrooms. Through one of the large glass panes, she observed a group of first-years practicing basic mana control exercises, small sparks of elemental energy danced between their hands as they struggled to maintain balance.
A few of the students paused mid-motion, their eyes narrowing in curiosity as they noticed her. Whispers floated through the room, assuming she was a transfer student, someone new with experience unknown. Alexa allowed herself a small smile, familiar with this kind of reaction. They didn't know she had emerged from the Delta Rift, carrying memories and skills forged in five lost years.
At the doorway, the professor overseeing the class, a veteran instructor who remembered Alexa from her time as a student, gave her a subtle nod. "Alexa," he said softly, a mix of pride and acknowledgment in his tone. "You've been appointed as the Official Awakened Guide. They'll be introduced to you shortly."
She stepped inside, letting the door close quietly behind her. The room seemed suddenly smaller, the buzzing of inexperienced mana more pronounced. Students turned fully now, some with eyes wide, others with arms crossed in cautious curiosity.
"Good morning, everyone," Alexa began, her voice calm but authoritative. "My name is Alexa, and I've been assigned as your Official Awakened Guide. My task is to help you learn to control your abilities safely, to understand your potential, and to ensure that your powers are used responsibly. You are young, and your abilities are powerful. Without guidance, mistakes can… have serious consequences."
She paused, scanning the room. "I will monitor your progress, answer your questions, and provide training support alongside your professors. You will also learn discipline, teamwork, and how to act when faced with danger. Part of my role is to observe your growth and help the Academy understand where you excel, and where you need improvement."
Some students whispered to each other, clearly impressed and a little intimidated. Alexa's gaze was steady, her presence commanding without being harsh. She had the confidence that came from surviving and mastering situations most of these students could not yet imagine.
One of the professors stepped forward, formally introducing her to the class. "These students have a history," he said carefully, "and Alexa has the knowledge and experience to guide them safely through their first year. Treat her instructions with the same respect you would any of the Academy's instructors."
Alexa nodded, adding, "I will not tolerate recklessness, and I expect honesty. If you struggle, speak up. If you succeed, push further. And above all, understand that being Awakened comes with responsibility, not just to yourselves, but to everyone around you."
The students sat silently, some leaning forward, some sitting rigidly, processing the weight of her words. They didn't yet know the depth of her experience, but her tone alone carried the authority of someone who had lived, and survived, the challenges they would only soon begin to face.
As she moved along the row of desks, scanning the students individually, she mentally prepared for the challenges ahead. Each student was a potential prodigy, or a potential disaster, and it was her job to ensure the first year became the foundation for the rest of their lives at the Overflow Academy.
Alexa ended her explanation and scanned the classroom. "Any questions?" she asked, her tone calm but inviting.
A few students hesitated, then a hand slowly went up. "Excuse me," a girl spoke, "but… how old are you? And… what's your background? How did you become a guide? You… you look about the same age as us."
Alexa paused, carefully considering her answer. She knew mentioning the Time Blimp anomaly was forbidden, rules explicitly forbade revealing it, but she had anticipated this question. With a small, reassuring smile, she said, "Age isn't what makes someone capable of guiding you. Experience, discipline, and the ability to control your power safely… that's what matters."
She raised her hands, and in a smooth motion, activated her barrier. A soft, shimmering dome appeared around her, radiating a faint, golden light. It pulsed slightly, revealing its layered structure, rank A, capable of multiple forms of control.
"This is an example of controlling your powers," she said. "It's not about strength alone. Control, precision, and understanding the limits of your abilities, that's how you grow."
She turned to the professor. "Would it be alright if I conducted a quick assessment? I'd like to gauge your students abilities firsthand."
The professor nodded, stepping back to give her space.
Alexa faced the class again. "Alright. Let's start with projectile attacks. Who here can shoot something like fire, energy, or a force projectile?"
A few hesitant hands went up. She pointed to one student. "You. Stand at the front."
The student she selected was a short, chubby boy, about five feet tall, and visibly nervous. Marks on his uniform suggested he was bullied often. He shifted uncomfortably as he stepped forward.
"Professor, please step back," Alexa requested politely. "This is just an exercise. Don't worry, I'm not here to show off or intimidate you. And you won't get in trouble for this."
The boy's eyes widened, but he nodded. "F-fire… bullet," he stammered, trying to steady his trembling hands. A small, tennis-ball-sized fireball appeared in his open palm. It was a tier 1 attack, weak, but still capable of causing burns if uncontrolled.
One of the other students shouted teasingly, "Don't be a scaredy-cat! Fire!"
Alexa smiled softly and remained calm. "Just fire when you're ready."
The boy inhaled sharply and thrust his hand forward. The fireball shot toward Alexa, leaving a faint trail of smoke. But her barrier effortlessly intercepted it, the flames contained within a shimmering, glass-like dome. The fireball bounced slightly against her protective field, unable to escape, and slowly fizzled as the boy's mana drained.
"See?" Alexa said, her voice warm. "It's not about stopping the attack, it's about controlling it, knowing its limits, and understanding how it behaves. You did well. That's the first step."
The boy's shoulders relaxed slightly, a small smile forming despite his nervousness. The other students whispered among themselves, some impressed, some cautiously observing. Alexa turned back to the class, her presence calm but authoritative.
"This is how we'll begin. Step by step. Learn to manage your powers, not just unleash them. And remember," she added, a subtle smile playing at her lips, "your mistakes here are lessons, not failures."
The students sat in silence, watching her carefully, their respect slowly growing. Alexa had begun establishing herself, not just as a guide, but as someone who understood their fears, their limitations, and the potential within them all.
Kaelin Navaro stepped into the classroom of the third-year section, his tall frame filling the doorway. The students immediately quieted, their eyes sizing him up with a mixture of curiosity and subtle judgment. Many of them were from wealthy or influential families, and the air in the room carried the faint arrogance of privilege, they expected someone remarkable.
Kaelin's expression remained calm, neutral. He didn't rush to impress them. Instead, he simply nodded toward the professor, who gave a short introduction. "Class, this is Kaelin Navaro. He will be overseeing your section this year as part of your guidance program."
A few students raised eyebrows, whispering to one another. One of the taller boys, clearly a confident type, spoke up. "Excuse me… but what makes you qualified? How strong are your powers?"
Kaelin tilted his head slightly, the corner of his mouth lifting in a small, polite smile. "I've trained extensively with earth and mineral manipulation," he said. "Lithokinesis. I can control stone and minerals, shaping them into defensive or offensive tools. Blades, shields, even projectiles."
The students exchanged skeptical glances. A girl in the front row folded her arms. "Show us, then. If that's all, I'm not impressed," she said bluntly.
Kaelin took a deep breath and stepped forward. He placed his hands lightly on the floor. Stones and fragments of concrete nearby began to tremble, lifting slowly into the air. He formed a small, jagged blade about a foot long and a rounded stone shield, holding them up for the class to see. He then shaped several smaller stones into high-velocity projectiles, letting them hover at midair before dissipating them carefully.
A few students nodded in acknowledgment, but the majority seemed disappointed. "Is that it?" muttered one boy under his breath. "I expected… more."
Kaelin sensed their dismay but chose to hold back. His focus wasn't on showing overwhelming power, it was on control, precision, and restraint. "This is not about showing force for the sake of awe," he said softly, turning his gaze to meet theirs. "It's about mastery. Knowing your limits, and using your ability effectively in ways that matter."
A few students still whispered, clearly unimpressed, but the professor cleared her throat. "That's enough. Kaelin has the experience and discipline necessary to guide you. Respect his position."
Kaelin gave a small nod of acknowledgment, noticing some lingering doubt in the room. The students wanted to see a display of raw power, a flashy exhibition, but Kaelin's approach was measured, deliberate. The subtle message, though not immediately embraced, was clear: real strength is not always the loudest or the most destructive.
By the end of the introduction, most of the students accepted him, if reluctantly. They respected his control and the thoughtfulness in his demonstration, even if a part of them still wished for something more explosive. Kaelin, however, remained composed. He knew that earning trust and respect from a group like this would take time, but he was willing to wait.
As he gathered their attention to begin the assessment, Kaelin's calm demeanor set the tone. "We'll start with basic exercises," he said. "Focus on control first. Power comes later."
Though the students were still slightly dismayed, there was an underlying curiosity now. Kaelin had made his point: mastery of skill outweighed flashy displays of raw force, and for the first time, some of the wealthiest and most arrogant 3rd-year students had a glimpse of what it meant to be truly disciplined.