New tabs appeared within the interface.
— Quest Tab Unlocked
— EXP Tab Unlocked
— Level System Activated
Alex blinked. For the first time since getting the system, it felt alive—active.
He clenched his fists. So I can grow stronger... I just need to level up.
"Kirito Yamazaki," the instructor called out, her voice cutting through the air.
Alex looked up. A new student? He hadn't seen him around before. The young man stepping was different from the others, not in appearance but in the air about him. Kirito Yamazaki was calm and collected, his movements smooth and precise, like someone who had spent years honing his craft. His hair was dark and neatly kept, his eyes sharp and focused, like a man with purpose.
He was dressed in the standard academy uniform, but there was something about him that set him apart. It wasn't the cut of his clothes or the look of superiority. No, it was the discipline in his posture, the quiet confidence that came from hard work, not privilege.
Alex raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Unlike Zane, who seemed to exude arrogance and wealth, Kirito was humble, almost reserved, but his presence still demanded attention.
"Kirito Yamazaki, please step forward for your assessment," Helen called"
A tall, lean boy stepped forward. His black hair was neatly tied back in a short ponytail, and his calm, composed expression carried a quiet strength. Unlike the flashy or proud demeanor of many others, Kirito moved with precise, deliberate steps.
"He looks… normal," someone whispered.
Kirito gave a respectful bow and walked into the arena with a sheathed sword at his side.
"You're bringing a weapon?" one of the staff asked, raising an eyebrow.
Kirito nodded. "Permission to demonstrate both my ability and technique, sir."
The instructor exchanged a glance with the evaluator and nodded. "Very well. Battle bot, Level 1. Engage."
The bot activated and lunged toward Kirito.
In one smooth motion, Kirito unsheathed his blade. His ability wasn't flashy—his sword didn't glow, no elemental force surged—but every strike he delivered was precise, well-placed, and executed with almost artistic discipline.
He dodged with minimum movement, never wasting energy, and managed to land clean blows on the bot's limbs, gradually wearing it down.
Even the instructor leaned forward slightly, impressed.
He's not strong… but he's skilled, Alex thought, watching closely. Every movement is calculated…
After three minutes of steady back-and-forth, Kirito disarmed the bot with a sweeping slash and brought his blade to its core, freezing just before impact.
"Battle bot disabled. Kirito Yamazaki—Assessment complete."
As he turned to leave the arena, Alex couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration. Kirito wasn't flashy or overly confident, but his skill was undeniable. He didn't need to show off; his actions spoke for themselves. Alex, still struggling with his own abilities, felt a pang of envy. This was someone who had worked hard and earned his place. He had to respect that.
The instructor called out the result. "Kirito Yamazaki, Tier D."
Alex blinked. Tier D?Although his swordsmanship wasn't that impressive but he had expected the young man to be ranked higher, considering his level of skill. But it seemed that Kirito's ability didn't quite match the criteria for a higher tier.
The students in the crowd murmured amongst themselves.
"Don't let the rank fool you," Zane's voice came from behind Alex. He had been watching the assessment from a distance, his arms crossed as he observed the new student. "Kirito may not have the flashiest ability but still his swordsmanship isn't enough,That's why he's in Tier D—his ability is focused on precision, not brute force."
Alex turned to Zane, surprised by the insight. The boy had an air of arrogance, but it seemed he wasn't without merit.
"You think he's a threat?" Alex asked, raising an eyebrow.
Zane shrugged, his posture relaxed. "You'll see. Kirito's potential is…different.
Alex considered this as he watched Kirito leave the arena. The calm, disciplined young man had earned his respect, but there was something else—an unspoken potential that Alex couldn't quite put his finger on. Maybe Kirito wasn't the type to stand out in the same way that Zane did, but there was no denying that he was capable. And that was something Alex needed to remember.
As the next student was called up for their assessment, Alex couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of determination. He still had a long way to go before he could measure up to the likes of Zane or even Kirito, but one thing was clear: he wasn't going to stop trying.