As the group moved through the academy grounds, Joshua walked up beside Adam, glancing at the unfamiliar face among them.
"So, who's the new guy?" Joshua asked, his tone casual.
Adam, leading the group, didn't even turn as he replied, "His name is Mael."
"The name's Mael," Mael added, offering a slight nod to Joshua.
Joshua looked him over once before shrugging. "Alright then." He didn't say anything more, but something about Mael made him feel a little off. He couldn't quite place it, so he just kept walking.
A few moments later, Adam shifted his gaze to Joshua. "Have you figured out your abilities yet? Or at least figured out why the Origin Academy accepted you?"
Joshua let out a frustrated sigh, rubbing the back of his neck. "Not yet. I tried everything—ran simulations in my dorm, put myself in dangerous situations, even hoped I'd suddenly grow wings or something." He shook his head. "Nothing happened."
