《I Got a Book Even Though I’m Not a Bookworm》 Prologue: The Book Owner??? The air smelled like spring¡ªfresh and cool, carrying the scent of flowers blooming all around. I stood at the edge of the orientation stage, my eyes scanning the crowd. Everyone around me was hyped, chatting and laughing about the same thing. High school. Powers. Unlocking our abilities tomorrow. I didn¡¯t share their excitement, though. Maybe it was because I had no idea what kind of ability I was going to get. Everyone around me was talking about becoming warriors or mages or anything else from a typical RPG, but me? I didn¡¯t feel so sure about what was coming for me. ¡°Seiji! Hey, wait up!¡± I didn¡¯t have to turn around to know who it was. Tatsuya. He was jogging over, grinning like he¡¯d just won the lottery. I barely had time to give him a tired look before he was already standing next to me, bouncing on the balls of his feet. ¡°Dude, can you believe it? Tomorrow¡¯s the day! High school, unlocking our powers, it¡¯s all happening! This is huge!¡± I shoved my hands into my pockets and gave him a half-smile. ¡°Yeah¡­ huge.¡± Tatsuya didn¡¯t seem to notice the lack of enthusiasm in my voice. He was already talking a mile a minute, his eyes practically sparkling with excitement. ¡°I¡¯m totally gonna get something awesome! Maybe a swordsman, or a mage¡­ or both! I¡¯ll be unstoppable! What about you, Seiji? What do you think you¡¯ll get?¡± I shrugged, trying to look casual. ¡°I dunno¡­ Maybe something cool.¡± He punched me lightly in the arm. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re not excited! This is what we¡¯ve been waiting for! I can¡¯t wait to see what kind of power you unlock!¡± I forced a grin, but inside, my stomach was churning. Sure, everyone else seemed so sure of what they¡¯d get, but what if my power didn¡¯t fit? What if it was something totally out of left field, something that didn¡¯t make sense in the world of swordsmen and mages? I didn¡¯t exactly feel like I belonged in that world. Tatsuya didn¡¯t pick up on any of that. Instead, he clapped me on the back with that usual confidence of his. ¡°I can already picture it. You¡¯ll get some crazy good power, just wait. Maybe you¡¯ll be a master swordsman or something! You¡¯d be unstoppable!¡± ¡°Yeah, maybe¡­¡± I muttered, not sure if I believed it. The bell rang, signaling the end of the orientation. The crowd around us was starting to thin out, people heading off in different directions. Tatsuya flashed me one last grin before waving and jogging off, clearly already thinking about what he was going to do tomorrow. I stayed behind for a moment, letting everything sink in. Tomorrow was a big day, right? The day everyone unlocked their abilities. The day we all became something more. Except, I didn¡¯t know if I was ready for that. What if I didn¡¯t fit in? What if my power didn¡¯t match the world everyone else seemed so sure of? I sighed and turned to head home, the sound of the world buzzing around me as I walked away. Tomorrow was supposed to be the start of something amazing. For everyone else, it would be. But for me? I wasn¡¯t so sure.
The walk home was quiet, but my mind wouldn¡¯t settle. Tomorrow was the day. Everyone would unlock their powers. Everyone but me, it seemed, was excited. Tatsuya had been talking about it nonstop, imagining himself as a legendary swordsman or a powerful mage, both of which seemed to fit the mold of what was expected in this world. The world I lived in was strange, but it was the only world I knew. Dungeons and towers had begun to appear across the globe 20 years ago. People said it was like something straight out of a fantasy game. Massive structures, rising from the earth with an eerie, otherworldly presence. Nobody knew exactly where they came from or how they worked, but they were everywhere¡ªevery city, every region had one. The dungeons were dangerous places filled with monsters and treasure, and towers were equally as deadly, but they were known for their rare artifacts and high-level rewards. There were even rumors of treasures that could grant you powers beyond the typical swordsman or mage abilities. But those were just rumors. The world had adapted quickly, and the people with the ability to fight and survive in these dungeons quickly became heroes. Some took on the role of warriors, mages, or archers¡ªskills they¡¯d unlocked upon reaching their 15th birthday. It was as if they were all destined for something. But there was one catch: everyone unlocked an ability at the age of 15, and it was almost always one that matched the RPG roles. There were no exceptions. Almost no exceptions. The excitement of tomorrow¡¯s awakening was more than just about gaining powers¡ªit was a rite of passage. Unlocking your ability meant you could begin your journey to level up. The towers, the dungeons, everything¡ªit was all part of a global leveling system. People hunted monsters, completed quests, and leveled up just like characters in an RPG. And the rewards were real. Power, riches, and prestige. All attainable by those who could rise to the challenge. I, on the other hand, had no idea where I fit in. The world of swordsmen and mages wasn¡¯t one that seemed to have a place for someone like me. And deep down, I wasn¡¯t even sure I belonged in it. I kicked a rock as I walked, lost in thought. Tomorrow, I''d get my answer.
The Next Day The morning light was bright, filtering through the window as I lay on my bed, staring at the ceiling. Today was the day. The day everyone unlocked their abilities. I could already hear Tatsuya¡¯s voice in my head, brimming with excitement. But me? I just felt... unsure. By now, the other kids in school were likely already gathering in groups, waiting for their abilities to manifest. I could almost imagine Tatsuya now, surrounded by a crowd, showing off his powers like he was born for it. I glanced at the clock. It was time. I grabbed my bag and slung it over my shoulder. Stepping outside, I felt the weight of the world shift. Today wasn¡¯t just another day. It was the start of something new. A new chapter in a world where the line between fantasy and reality blurred with every dungeon explored and tower climbed. I arrived at the school, where the usual chatter and buzz filled the air. Kids from all over were gathering in the gymnasium, eagerly waiting for the ceremony to begin. The school had set up a special event for today¡ªeveryone would unlock their abilities in front of everyone else. It was a spectacle; a public event that made it feel like some kind of game show. I couldn¡¯t help but glance around as I entered, spotting Tatsuya immediately. He was practically vibrating with excitement, already talking to a group of classmates. He waved me over, and I made my way to him, doing my best to mask the nerves crawling up my spine. ¡°Seiji! Finally!¡± Tatsuya greeted me, his smile wide and genuine. ¡°Today¡¯s the day! I can already feel it¡ªthis is going to be the best day ever! I can already picture it: I¡¯m gonna get some crazy sword ability, or maybe a magic spell¡ªwhat about you?¡±Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! I shrugged again, trying to look nonchalant, but the knot in my stomach only grew. ¡°Yeah¡­ maybe.¡± He frowned, but didn¡¯t press. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll get something good. Trust me!¡± The ceremony began shortly after, with all the students lining up one by one in front of the school¡¯s main stage. A large screen overhead showed the countdown, signaling when each person would awaken their ability. The teacher called up the first student, and the crowd went quiet. A flash of light, a soft hum in the air¡ªand just like that, the first student¡¯s ability manifested. It was a classic swordsmanship power, a perfect fit for the RPG world we now lived in. Everyone cheered. Tatsuya was practically jumping with joy. ¡°See? This is what I¡¯m talking about!¡± One by one, students were called up, and each time, their abilities felt like they belonged to this new world. Some got elemental magic, others were granted powers of strength and agility. Then it was Tatsuya¡¯s turn. He stepped up confidently, his excitement palpable. The screen flickered, and a beam of light enveloped him, blinding everyone for a moment. The hum in the air intensified, and when it cleared, Tatsuya stood there, his presence radiating with an aura of strength and protection. The crowd gasped as the energy around him settled. Tatsuya¡¯s eyes widened as the glowing text appeared before him, visible only to him: A grin spread across Tatsuya¡¯s face as he looked around at the crowd. The energy radiating from him pulsed with authority. Without hesitation, he exclaimed, ¡°I¡¯ve awakened the Swordsman! A job that¡¯s perfect for me! I¡¯m ready to slice through anything!¡± He twirled on the spot, his excitement spilling over. ¡°This is going to be amazing!¡± The crowd cheered, impressed by his confidence and the aura of strength surrounding him, but unaware of the specific details of Tatsuya¡¯s new job. Tatsuya, however, felt a surge of anticipation, ready to test his newfound strength in the world. Then, it was my turn. I walked up, trying to suppress the fluttering in my chest, but nothing seemed to settle. What if I didn¡¯t fit in? The light surged, and I closed my eyes, waiting for something. Anything. But it wasn¡¯t what I expected. A soft pulse of energy, almost like the flicker of a candle flame in the dark, and suddenly, something materialized in my hands. I blinked, staring at what appeared to be... a book? Not a weapon, not magic¡ªjust a book. The world seemed to pause for a beat. The teacher looked at me curiously. ¡°Seiji, what is it?¡±
Book Owner (Job) Rarity: Unique Level 1: Grants the ability to collect and store skill cards, which can be used to enhance personal abilities. Effect: Increases the user¡¯s proficiency in collecting and using skills from the cards they acquire. Unlocks at Level 5: Card Mastery ¨C The user can begin to improve and evolve cards they have collected. Unlocks at Level 10: Skill Fusion ¨C The user gains the ability to combine different skill cards to create new, stronger abilities.
I stared at it in awe, a mix of excitement and confusion. Book Owner? What did that even mean? But before I could think too much about it, I quickly closed the book, not wanting anyone to see it. I didn¡¯t know how to explain it, I had... a book. The book felt... familiar, yet completely foreign at the same time. The edges shimmered faintly, as if alive, pulsing with a strange energy that made my skin tingle. I had no idea what I was holding, but there was no denying it was something out of the ordinary. I opened the book, expecting something normal. But to my surprise, the pages weren¡¯t actually pages at all. They were card slots, each one perfectly designed to hold a single card. Some of the slots were empty, but there was one card already in place in the first slot. I blinked at the card. It read:
Cooking (Passive) Rarity: Common Level 1: Ability to prepare basic meals with ease. Effect: Increases your proficiency in cooking. Allows for better-tasting meals. Unlocks at Level 5: Basic Cooking Techniques ¨C Learn to cook a wider variety of meals with improved flavor and presentation. Unlocks at Level 10: Advanced Cooking ¨C Ability to cook gourmet meals and experiment with complex recipes.
Cooking? Really? I stared at the card, feeling a strange mix of disappointment and curiosity. Of all things, cooking? I couldn¡¯t help but feel a little underwhelmed. Still, I had to admit it was practical. Maybe it would come in handy someday¡ªlike when I had to survive off my own cooking. I quickly closed the book, trying to act like everything was normal. The last thing I needed was attention on something I barely understood myself. The teacher raised an eyebrow. ¡°Seiji, what is it?¡± the teacher repeated. I shrugged, trying to act casual. ¡°Uh, I think it¡¯s just a book,¡± I said, avoiding the question. I didn¡¯t want to get into the details or try to explain this strange new thing to her. The teacher squinted at the book, clearly confused. ¡°A book? I¡¯ve never seen anything like it before. It doesn¡¯t look like any power I know of.¡± I didn¡¯t feel like explaining any further. ¡°It¡¯s probably nothing special,¡± I muttered, hoping to brush it off. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s just a cooking thing. No big deal.¡± The teacher seemed to accept that, though she still looked puzzled. ¡°Well, if it¡¯s cooking, then... I suppose there¡¯s no harm in it. You¡¯ll be a fine chef, at least.¡± I offered a weak smile, relieved that the attention was finally off me. ¡°Yeah, sure. That¡¯s the dream,¡± I said, trying to sound upbeat. As I walked away, I glanced at the book again. It felt like the weirdest thing, but maybe it was just the beginning of something bigger. For now, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what other cards might show up in this mysterious book. The rest of the day passed in a blur, but my mind kept drifting back to the strange book and the cooking skill I¡¯d unlocked. It didn¡¯t feel like much, but there was still something nagging at me. I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of something bigger. As I made my way to the school gates, I spotted Tatsuya waiting by the fence, bouncing on the balls of his feet. His grin was wide, and his eyes practically sparkled with excitement. ¡°Yo, Seiji! You ready to go home? Or are you still caught up in that ¡®what if¡¯ phase?¡± Tatsuya called out as soon as he saw me. I rolled my eyes, but I couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m ready. You seem... extra chipper today. What¡¯s got you so hyped?¡± ¡°Are you kidding? I¡¯m on cloud nine! Today¡¯s the day, man! I unlocked my ability!¡± He looked like he was ready to burst with pride. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to show you!¡± ¡°Really?¡± I raised an eyebrow. ¡°What''d you get?¡± Tatsuya leaned in close, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. ¡°You know how everyone¡¯s talking about getting swords or magic powers? Well, check this out.¡± He raised his hand, a grin spreading across his face. ¡°I got the Guardian Sword job. It¡¯s a unique one¡ªI can feel the strength inside me already. It¡¯s like I¡¯m carrying the weight of a thousand blades with me.¡± He flexed his fingers, as if gripping something invisible. ¡°This is gonna be awesome.¡± I chuckled, genuinely impressed. ¡°Well, you were talking about it non-stop. Guess you really did get what you wanted.¡± I wasn¡¯t sure what to make of it, but I had to admit, it was cool. ¡°I guess that¡¯s pretty epic, Tatsuya. You¡¯ll be cutting through all kinds of stuff now.¡± ¡°Hell yeah!¡± He laughed and slapped me on the back. ¡°Just you wait. Soon I¡¯ll be slicing through dungeons, defeating monsters, and becoming the ultimate protector. No one will stand a chance!¡± I smiled at his enthusiasm but couldn¡¯t help but feel a little... left behind. It was hard not to compare my simple cooking skill to Tatsuya¡¯s shiny new sword ability. Just then, Tatsuya seemed to notice the way I was looking at him, and he raised an eyebrow. ¡°Hey, what¡¯s up with you? You got something good too, right?¡± I hesitated for a second. It wasn¡¯t like I wanted to hide it, but the whole ¡®Skill Book¡¯ thing was weird, and I wasn¡¯t exactly sure how to explain it. In the end, I just shrugged and pulled the book from my bag. ¡°I got this... cooking thing.¡± Tatsuya blinked at it, clearly confused. ¡°Cooking? What, like a chef?¡± ¡°Yeah, I guess.¡± I showed him the card, though I wasn¡¯t exactly thrilled about it. "It''s called ''Cooking (Passive).''" I glanced over it again, seeing the familiar details: Tatsuya looked it over with a puzzled expression. ¡°Cooking, huh? That¡¯s¡­ kinda unexpected.¡± He paused, then grinned. ¡°Well, hey, at least you¡¯ll never go hungry, right?¡± I forced a smile. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s the idea.¡± Tatsuya still seemed a little unsure of what to make of it. ¡°Well, it¡¯s better than nothing, right? Plus, you can always level it up, right? You can probably cook up something awesome eventually.¡± I nodded, though I wasn¡¯t sure how far that would take me. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s what I¡¯m hoping.¡± Tatsuya, ever the optimist, clapped me on the shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t sweat it, Seiji! You¡¯ve got something useful, and who knows¡ªmaybe you¡¯ll unlock something cooler later! Besides, I¡¯ll be your first customer when you start making gourmet meals.¡± I chuckled, appreciating his attempt to make me feel better. ¡°Thanks, Tatsuya. I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡± As we walked home together, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a little better about my new power. Sure, it wasn¡¯t as flashy or exciting as Tatsuya¡¯s sword, but it was mine. And maybe, just maybe, it would lead to something even more surprising down the road.
Guardian Sword (Job) Rarity: Unique Level 1: As a Guardian Sword, the user becomes a stalwart protector, enhancing their own defense and the defense of those around them. Effect: Increases personal defense and provides a small area-of-effect buff to nearby allies, improving their defense. Unlocks at Level 5: Shield of the Protector ¨C The user gains the ability to project a protective barrier around themselves or an ally, reducing damage taken. Unlocks at Level 10: Unyielding Guardian ¨C The user¡¯s defense becomes nearly unbreakable, and they can take on multiple enemies without faltering. Increases the area-of-effect defense buff to all nearby allies.
Hello I don''t know if someone will read this thing but I created this with the help of AI but... lmao this is my first time doing this kind of thing so bare with it. Also If you may, I want some opinion on it ?????? Awakened Futures They called it "The Great Awakening." The day the world changed forever. No one saw it coming. One day, the world was as it always had been¡ªbustling cities, quiet suburbs, the mundane rhythm of everyday life. The next, dungeons erupted from the earth, towers pierced the skies, and reality itself shifted. Monsters spilled out, bringing chaos. Governments crumbled, armies fell, and humanity stood on the brink of destruction. But then, something extraordinary happened. People began to awaken. Abilities once thought to exist only in myths or games became real. Some could wield fire in their hands, others could move faster than bullets, and a rare few even controlled space itself. The weak perished. The strong thrived. But among the strong, there were legends¡ªfigures who reshaped history with their overwhelming power. Hoshigawa Ryunosuke, the Crimson Emperor, could summon an inferno that burned entire cities to ash. Selene Nacht, the Moonlight Valkyrie, moved like a ghost in battle, her sword striking down enemies before they even saw her. Julius Reinhardt, the Titan of Aegis, stood as an immovable fortress, an unbreakable shield against the strongest monsters. These were the S-Rank Awakened, individuals so powerful that nations sought their allegiance, and dungeons trembled at their presence. Over time, society adapted. Cities were rebuilt, protected by these living legends. Guilds rose to power, competing for dominance over the ever-expanding dungeons and towers. Specialized Academies were established, training the next generation, ensuring that every child who awakened their power would be ready to face the world that awaited them. The Awakening Ceremony became a sacred rite of passage. At the age of fifteen, every person in the world would unlock their hidden potential. Some would rise as warriors, mages, or healers¡ªdestined for glory. Others would receive weaker, more mundane skills, doomed to live in the shadows of the strong. Today was that day. And for Seiji, it meant everything and nothing at the same time. The streets were alive with chatter, filled with students on their way to the academy. Today was no ordinary school day. It was the day they would awaken their abilities, the day their futures would be decided. Seiji walked with his hands tucked into his pockets, his posture relaxed. He wasn¡¯t nervous, but he wasn¡¯t exactly excited either. ¡°I bet I¡¯ll get something amazing,¡± Tatsuya said beside him, his steps energetic as he practically bounced forward. His voice carried an excitement that Seiji simply didn¡¯t share. ¡°You¡¯re too confident,¡± Seiji replied, yawning. ¡°Of course I am! This is the biggest day of our lives!¡± Tatsuya grinned. ¡°You should be hyped too, Seiji. Who knows? Maybe you¡¯ll awaken some legendary power like the Crimson Emperor.¡± Seiji exhaled through his nose. ¡°Yeah. And maybe I¡¯ll awaken ¡®Super Dishwashing¡¯ or something.¡± Tatsuya laughed. ¡°Come on, man, don¡¯t jinx yourself.¡± As they walked, they passed by large screens on the sides of buildings, broadcasting news updates. A reporter spoke with urgency, standing before a massive dungeon entrance. "Breaking News: The Abyssal Rift Dungeon has shown signs of abnormal activity. The S-Rank Awakened, Selene Nacht, has been dispatched to contain the threat. Citizens are advised to avoid the area." The screen switched to a live feed of a towering, ominous dungeon entrance, its swirling void-like energy pulsating. It was a stark reminder of why awakenings were necessary. Without powerful Awakened, humanity would be at the mercy of these dungeons. Tatsuya¡¯s eyes sparkled as he watched. ¡°Man, I¡¯d kill to be that strong one day.¡± Seiji just shrugged. He wasn¡¯t so sure. Being an S-Rank Awakened sounded like too much work. Soon, the academy gates loomed ahead, the crowd of students thickening. The Awakening Ceremony was about to begin.
The Ceremony Begins The massive auditorium of Tenryu Academy buzzed with excitement. A grand institution built for nurturing Awakened, it was one of the most prestigious academies in the country¡ªa place where the strongest students trained to become future legends. Banners of various guilds lined the walls, each one representing a faction that dominated the world outside the academy gates. Some were focused on hunting, others specialized in dungeon raids, and a few in monster research. But among them, three guilds stood above the rest¡ªpowerhouses of the modern era. As Seiji surveyed the banners, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned to find a boy about his age with messy brown hair and glasses standing behind him. ¡°Hey, you guys seem pretty chill,¡± the boy said with a grin. ¡°Mind if I join you?¡± Tatsuya raised an eyebrow, glancing at Seiji. ¡°Sure, why not? The more the merrier,¡± he said, not missing a beat. The boy grinned wider. ¡°Nice. Name¡¯s Hiroshi Tanaka. I¡¯m in the same class as you guys, by the way. Can¡¯t wait to see what kind of abilities we get today, huh?¡± Seiji nodded, feeling a bit awkward. ¡°Yeah, we¡¯ll see. I¡¯m Seiji. This is Tatsuya.¡± Hiroshi gave a quick wave to Tatsuya. ¡°Cool to meet you, Tatsuya. I¡¯ve been hearing a lot about your skills. Some people are saying you might be the next big swordmaster.¡± Tatsuya smirked. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t say that. But I¡¯ll definitely do my best.¡± Hiroshi grinned even more. ¡°Confidence is key! Anyway, this place looks insane, right? These guilds are some of the biggest names in the world. Can you imagine what it¡¯d be like to be an S-Rank like one of them?¡± Seiji sighed. ¡°Yeah, seems like a lot of pressure.¡± Hiroshi chuckled. ¡°I get that, but hey, you never know. Maybe one of us will surprise the hell out of everyone today. Maybe you, Seiji. You never know what you could awaken.¡± Seiji shrugged. ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡± He wasn¡¯t about to get his hopes up. He had no idea what kind of power he would unlock, but he wasn¡¯t expecting anything too impressive. ¡°Check this out,¡± Hiroshi said as he nudged Seiji, pointing toward the banners. ¡°Those are the big names.¡± Seiji followed Hiroshi¡¯s finger and nodded as he began to explain the first one. ¡°The Crimson Fangs,¡± Hiroshi said with a grin. ¡°A guild known for their battle-hardened warriors. Their leader, Kurogane Raizo, is an S-Rank fighter who once solo-cleared an A-Rank dungeon with his bare hands. A beast. And that¡¯s his daughter, Kurogane Rika. She¡¯s got the same fiery red hair and an attitude to match. Looks like she¡¯s already sizing up the crowd.¡± Seiji eyed Rika, who sat with her arms crossed, glaring at anyone who dared meet her eyes. ¡°She definitely looks like she could break someone in half.¡± Hiroshi chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re not wrong.¡± He pointed to the next banner. ¡°Then we have The Silver Valkyries. These guys are all about elite swordsmanship. Their leader, Selene Nacht, is an S-Rank legend, feared across the world. You don¡¯t mess with her. That¡¯s her niece, Nacht Elara. Cool, calm, and totally untouchable. Rumor has it she¡¯s already awakened her powers, but she¡¯s just here as a formality.¡± Seiji glanced over at Elara, who was sitting with perfect posture, barely acknowledging anyone around her. ¡°She seems pretty full of herself.¡± ¡°Yeah, but it¡¯s probably earned.¡± Hiroshi shrugged. ¡°Now, the big one¡ªTitan¡¯s Aegis.¡± His voice lowered slightly. ¡°Their leader, Julius Reinhardt, is basically a walking fortress. Dude once took a direct dragon attack and didn¡¯t flinch. His son, Reinhardt Leon, is the representative for the guild. You see him? The giant sitting over there.¡± Hiroshi waved his hand toward Leon, a towering figure among the students. ¡°He¡¯s the kind of guy who could probably snap you in half with a single move, but he seems...approachable. Still, you don¡¯t want to mess with him.¡± Seiji nodded, feeling a little smaller just looking at Leon. ¡°Yeah, not the kind of person you want to challenge.¡± Hiroshi grinned. ¡°Exactly. You¡¯ll get your chance to see them up close soon enough. Just hope you¡¯re ready.¡± Seiji, leaning back in his seat, nudged Tatsuya. ¡°Is it just me, or does this feel like some royal gathering where they introduce the future rulers?¡± Tatsuya, eyes locked on Rika, Elara, and Leon, whispered back, ¡°Dude, these guys are basically future S-Ranks. One of them might be your classmate.¡± ¡°Great,¡± Seiji muttered. ¡°I look forward to being a background character in their grand destinies.¡± Before Tatsuya could respond, a loud boom echoed through the auditorium. A single figure stepped onto the stage¡ªa towering man with streaks of silver in his hair and an aura so suffocating it felt like the room itself bowed in submission. Principal Daigo Arakawa stepped onto the stage, his presence alone enough to make the murmurs die down. The tall, broad-shouldered man exuded an aura of power that even the most confident guild representatives couldn''t ignore. His hair, streaked with silver, gave him a distinguished look, but it was his eyes¡ªhard, calculating, and filled with the weight of years of battles¡ªthat told the real story. A former S-Rank adventurer, Daigo Arakawa was a living legend. The rumors surrounding him were almost as legendary as his feats: One such tale said he had punched an ogre so hard it wiped the entire species from existence. As he stood at the podium, the entire hall seemed to hold its breath. Even the guild representatives¡ªaccustomed to the constant show of strength¡ªstraightened, all eyes locked on him. With a deep breath, Daigo¡¯s voice rumbled through the room, cutting through the tension like a blade. "Welcome, future Awakened."
Principal Daigo Arakawa''s voice echoed through the grand hall, sending a ripple of anticipation through the students. ¡°Welcome, future Awakened.¡± The air seemed to thicken with power as his words rang out, and for a moment, it felt like even the walls of the academy were holding their breath. The students¡ªsome excited, others nervous¡ªsat upright, instinctively sensing the immense authority of the man before them. Daigo¡¯s gaze swept over the gathered crowd, his stern expression softening just slightly. It was almost imperceptible, but there was a brief flicker of what could only be described as pride in his eyes. ¡°This is the moment you¡¯ve all been waiting for¡ªthe moment when you unlock the potential hidden within you. Some of you will awaken abilities that will shape your future, others may discover powers you never dreamed possible. It¡¯s not just about what you can do, but how you choose to use it.¡± He paused, letting his words sink in, his gaze now focusing on a few specific individuals in the crowd. The silence that followed felt thick, almost oppressive, but no one dared to break it. ¡°Now, it is time. Approach the stage, and let your awakening begin.¡± With a wave of his hand, the massive stage at the front of the hall lit up. A glowing platform emerged from the floor, surrounded by ancient runes that pulsed with light. The atmosphere in the room shifted again, becoming charged with an unmistakable energy. Seiji glanced at Tatsuya, his stomach doing flips. Despite the calm on the outside, his heart was racing. Tatsuya gave him a reassuring smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. We¡¯ve got this.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Seiji muttered under his breath, but he couldn¡¯t shake the sense of dread creeping up his spine. What if his power was something useless? What if he was the only one who didn¡¯t awaken anything worth having? As the students started to move toward the stage in groups, a hush fell over the room. The atmosphere was electric with excitement, and the representatives from the top guilds watched with varying degrees of interest. Hiroshi¡ªnow standing with them, still grinning from ear to ear¡ªnudged Seiji again. ¡°Ready to find out what you¡¯ve got, Seiji?¡± Seiji shrugged, trying to look more confident than he felt. ¡°I guess we¡¯ll see. It¡¯s not like we have much of a choice.¡± The group began to move forward, and Seiji¡¯s feet felt heavier with each step.
As the students gathered in the large hall, excitement buzzed through the air. The ceremony was about to begin, and everyone stood on edge, awaiting the moment they would unlock their powers. Seiji could feel the weight of the moment pressing on him. Around him, whispers of hope and fear echoed in the air, each person wondering what kind of ability they''d be bestowed with. Tatsuya stood confidently, his arms folded across his chest, ready to face whatever came. Hiroshi, on the other hand, seemed more nervous than he let on, his fingers tapping impatiently against his leg. The headmaster, Daigo Arakawa, had finished his speech, and now the process began. One by one, students were called to the center of the room to awaken their powers.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "Remember," the announcer¡¯s voice echoed through the hall, "jobs are categorized into four distinct levels: Normal Jobs, Advanced Jobs, Rare Jobs, and Unique Jobs. Each has its own unique characteristics and power. What you awaken to will shape your future." Seiji glanced over at Tatsuya, who nodded slightly, acknowledging the system. "Normal Jobs," the announcer continued, "are abilities that pertain to everyday skills¡ªarts, crafting, management, and other non-combat professions. They may not offer combat prowess, but they are essential for daily living and have their own set of valuable skills." Seiji wasn¡¯t expecting anything spectacular, but he did wonder if he would get a normal job¡ªperhaps something like a manager, or maybe a gardener. Nothing exciting, but functional. "Advanced Jobs," the announcer added, "are combat-focused professions, ones most people awaken to. These include jobs like Swordsman, Mage, Archer, and Healer. While these jobs are vital for adventuring and combat, they don¡¯t possess extraordinary traits. They form the backbone of an Awakened¡¯s abilities." Tatsuya¡¯s job would likely fall into this category¡ªsomething simple, like a swordsman, though he had the potential to exceed even that. "Rare Jobs," the announcer went on, "are those that require more experience and skill to unlock. These jobs represent a higher level of expertise. A ''Swordmaster'' or ''Elemental Mage'' would be examples of Rare Jobs. They allow for greater specialization and proficiency in their chosen field." Seiji¡¯s gaze briefly shifted to the guild banners, remembering the Swordmaster title that had been mentioned. Tatsuya would undoubtedly fit into that category, his natural talent and relentless training guiding him toward it. "And finally, Unique Jobs," the announcer said, voice lowering in reverence. "These are the rarest of all, tied to immense potential and power. Only a select few ever unlock them, and they often require extraordinary feats or conditions. Examples include ''Dragon Knight,'' ''Time Mage,'' or ''The Chosen One.'' These jobs are a direct reflection of an individual¡¯s unique potential and are considered the pinnacle of Awakened abilities." Seiji¡¯s heart beat faster as the first student stepped forward, ready to unlock their job. The announcer¡¯s voice echoed once again, filling the hall with anticipation. ¡°First up, Kaori Mizuno!¡± A girl with short, dark hair walked confidently to the center of the room, the buzz in the hall dying down as she approached the stage. The crowd murmured, waiting for her job to be revealed. As she placed her hand on the crystal orb, a flash of light filled the room. The announcer read aloud, "Kaori Mizuno has awakened to... Manager." There was a brief silence, followed by polite applause. Seiji could see the slight disappointment in her eyes, though she quickly masked it with a smile. A Manager might not be as exciting as a combat job, but it was still important. Being a manager meant she had the ability to organize, lead, and coordinate people¡ªvaluable skills in the business world or even within guilds. ¡°Normal Jobs come in many forms,¡± the announcer continued, his voice clear and steady. ¡°While some, like Manager or Artist, are non-combat and essential for everyday life, others are more suited for battle and adventure. These combat-oriented Normal Jobs, such as Guardsman or Hunter, have enhanced physical skills and offer utility in fighting, though they still lack the specialization and potency of Advanced or Rare Jobs.¡± Seiji¡¯s eyes flickered toward Tatsuya, who had already assumed his usual confident stance, waiting for his turn. Hiroshi nudged Seiji, whispering, ¡°Looks like she¡¯s taking it in stride, huh?¡± Seiji nodded. ¡°Yeah. Guess you can¡¯t always expect a combat job. Still, she¡¯s probably set for something in the business world, even if she doesn¡¯t get a fight-ready job.¡± ¡°True,¡± Hiroshi agreed. ¡°But hey, she might have some tricks up her sleeve we don¡¯t know about yet.¡± The next few students passed through with similar results¡ªsome unlocking Normal Jobs, others stepping into Advanced Jobs like Mage or Archer. Seiji¡¯s mind was a mix of curiosity and doubt as he anxiously awaited his turn. Then, the announcer called, ¡°Tatsuya Kurogane!¡± Tatsuya strode confidently to the stage, his presence commanding attention even in the midst of all the uncertainty. He was the picture of poise as he placed his hand on the crystal orb. Light flashed again, and the announcer read aloud, ¡°Tatsuya Kurogane has awakened to¡­ Guardian Sword.¡± A wave of whispers rippled through the hall, with a few impressed murmurs from those who recognized the name. Tatsuya¡¯s reputation as a talented swordsman already preceded him, but the title of Guardian Sword was something entirely different. Seiji clapped along with the rest of the students, but his eyes were fixed on Tatsuya. He could feel the weight of the moment¡ªthe expectations that would follow. The room fell into a hushed silence, the rarity of the job sparking awe and whispers among the students. Tatsuya remained calm, though a faint smile tugged at his lips as he glanced over at Seiji, who was wide-eyed. "Guardian Sword," the announcer continued, "a Unique Job for those who are both protectors and warriors, excelling in both offense and defense. Those who awaken to this job are known for their extraordinary swordsmanship and their ability to shield their allies with unmatched skill." Tatsuya¡¯s aura flickered with a brief, powerful shimmer, like a warrior in their prime. The presence he exuded seemed to shift the very air around him. Seiji could feel it¡ªthe weight of Tatsuya¡¯s newfound strength. His friend wasn¡¯t just an ordinary swordsman anymore; he was something far more extraordinary. The room buzzed with whispers, but no one could deny the fact: Guardian Sword was a Unique Job. No one else would ever awaken to it¡ªTatsuya was the only one. The uniqueness of his power was evident in the atmosphere around him, as if the world itself recognized his new status. "Your potential exceeds expectations, Tatsuya," the announcer said with respect, noting the power emanating from him. "You are now the protector of those around you." Tatsuya gave a small nod as he returned to Seiji¡¯s side, his expression as relaxed as ever, but the glint of pride in his eyes was unmistakable. "Looks like I¡¯ve got my hands full," Tatsuya said with a smirk. "Guess it¡¯s not just about swinging a sword anymore." Seiji chuckled nervously, still trying to process what just happened. "A Guardian Sword... that¡¯s... that¡¯s insane, Tatsuya. You¡¯re gonna be amazing." Tatsuya shrugged nonchalantly. "It¡¯s just a job. But yeah, I¡¯m ready for whatever comes next." Seiji watched him, a mix of awe and uncertainty swirling within him. Tatsuya had unlocked one of the rarest and most powerful jobs, while Seiji still had no idea what his own fate would be. Would he have a Unique Job too? Or would he fall into something more ordinary? He couldn¡¯t help but wonder, and that feeling of uncertainty lingered as the next person was called forward. "Up next," the announcer called, "Seiji Takahashi!" Seiji¡¯s legs felt like lead as he made his way to the center of the hall. All eyes were on him¡ªhis heartbeat was loud in his ears as he placed his hand on the crystal orb. Light filled the room, blinding him for a moment, and when the light faded, the announcer¡¯s voice rang out. ¡°Seiji Takahashi has awakened to¡­ Book Owner.¡± The hall went quiet. The announcer glanced at the orb, clearly puzzled. He turned to Seiji, a slight frown creasing his brow. ¡°Book Owner? Is that correct?¡± Seiji blinked, equally confused. ¡°I¡­ I think so?¡± The announcer gave him an uncertain look before nodding. "Well, if you''re sure... Let''s see what it is." Seiji, his hands trembling slightly, instinctively reached into his pocket. He pulled out the Skill Card Book, a plain-looking leather-bound book that had only just appeared in his possession a moment ago. He flipped it open, feeling a strange pull from within. ¡°Go ahead, take a look,¡± the announcer encouraged, watching with curiosity. Seiji hesitated for a moment before opening the book. He flipped through a few pages, his heart racing as the pages seemed to respond to his touch. Then, on one of the pages, a card materialized. Seiji¡¯s eyes widened as he read the text on the card. [Cooking (Passive)] Rarity: Common Level 1: Basic cooking skills. Effect: Grants the ability to prepare simple meals with basic ingredients. Unlocks at Level 5: Advanced cooking techniques. ¡°Well, that¡¯s¡­ unexpected,¡± Seiji muttered, his voice tinged with surprise. The announcer leaned in, trying to make sense of it. ¡°Cooking? That¡¯s your ability? A culinary job?¡± Seiji nodded slowly, feeling a strange mix of relief and confusion. ¡°I guess so. I mean, it¡¯s not... exactly what I was expecting.¡± The announcer raised an eyebrow, then cleared his throat. "Well, this is certainly unique. Book Owner, and... Cooking. A recipe book, perhaps? Well, it¡¯s not every day we see something like this. But maybe this is just the beginning of something more... interesting to come. For now, let¡¯s give Seiji Takahashi a round of applause!¡± Seiji could feel all eyes on him, the weight of his unique ability settling on his shoulders. The thought that he might be mistaken for a simple cook didn¡¯t help ease the pressure. What kind of future lay ahead for him with a job like this? Tatsuya walked over and slapped him lightly on the back. ¡°Well, looks like you¡¯ve got everyone guessing now, huh?¡± Seiji could only manage a shaky smile. The questions raced in his mind, but one thing was for sure¡ªhis life had just changed forever. The ceremony progressed, and the air remained thick with anticipation. Seiji couldn¡¯t help but glance over at the representatives of the top guilds, who were seated in the front row. Their presence was undeniable, their aura of power impossible to ignore. Each of them was here for a reason¡ªa reason Seiji could only hope to understand in time. In the front row, Kurogane Rika sat with her arms crossed, her sharp gaze scanning the room. Her fiery red hair framed her face like a blazing halo, and her cold, fierce expression made it clear she was no stranger to battle. Seiji couldn''t help but notice the way she observed the others¡ªa woman who¡¯d likely seen more than her fair share of fights. Rika¡¯s status as a representative of the Crimson Fangs, one of the most notorious and battle-hardened guilds in the world, added weight to her every action. She looked unimpressed by the ceremony, sizing up the students as if she were appraising potential recruits, or perhaps simply wondering if any of them were worth her time. Beside her sat Nacht Elara, a calm and cool presence. Her posture was perfect, her demeanor untouchable. It was said that she had already awakened her power the previous year, but the specifics of her ability remained a mystery. The Silver Valkyries, the guild she represented, was known for its elite swordsmanship, and Nacht seemed to exude effortless power. Her silence spoke volumes¡ªan air of superiority that made it clear she didn¡¯t feel the need to engage with anyone in the room. Seiji had heard rumors about her being the niece of Selene Nacht, the legendary S-Rank swordmaster. If that was true, Nacht Elara was a force to be reckoned with, one whose presence alone made the other students more aware of their own abilities. And then there was Reinhardt Leon, whose towering figure seemed to command the space around him. His quiet confidence and intimidating presence made it clear that he was no ordinary student. Tall, muscular, and with a demeanor that suggested he could withstand great physical force, Reinhardt was the son of Julius Reinhardt, the leader of Titan¡¯s Aegis. Known for their expertise in defense and dungeon expeditions, Reinhardt¡¯s guild specialized in standing firm against the most brutal of threats. From the look of it, Reinhardt was already an elite in his own right, someone who was capable of bearing the weight of any situation with ease. His silent observation of the ceremony only added to his already considerable aura. The announcer called the next name, and the ceremony continued. ¡°Up next, Kurogane Rika!¡± Rika stood with a measured grace, her eyes never leaving the crystal orb. With a practiced hand, she placed her palm upon it, and the room once again filled with a bright, blinding light. The announcer¡¯s voice soon followed. ¡°Kurogane Rika has awakened to¡­ Crimson Blade!¡± A hush fell over the room, a sharp intake of breath from the crowd. Crimson Blade was a Rare Job, but even among Rare Jobs, it held significant weight. Known for its emphasis on strength and precision, the Crimson Blade was a symbol of deadly mastery in combat. The crowd murmured in awe, knowing that Rika¡¯s reputation in the Crimson Fangs guild would only grow more formidable with such a job. Rika¡¯s expression remained stoic as the light dimmed. She didn¡¯t seem to care for the attention, but a glimmer of satisfaction shone in her eyes. She returned to her seat without acknowledging anyone, her fierce aura settling over the room once again. As always, she remained untouchable, her power something that could never be underestimated. Next came Nacht Elara, who¡¯s cool, collected demeanor didn¡¯t falter as she stepped forward. She placed her hand on the orb, and once again, the room was filled with light. ¡°Nacht Elara has awakened to¡­ Valkyrie¡¯s Aegis!¡± The announcer¡¯s voice rang with admiration. ¡°Valkyrie¡¯s Aegis is a Unique Job that grants its wielder unparalleled mastery over both offense and defense. Those with this job can create barriers that not only protect allies but can also reflect damage back at their enemies. It is said that the bearer of this job can move like the wind, blocking strikes while delivering swift counterattacks.¡± Nacht stood with a serene smile, giving little more than a nod as the light faded. Her reputation as a representative of the Silver Valkyries had only grown stronger, and her mastery over her job was already evident in the way she carried herself. She returned to her seat, unfazed by the attention. Finally, Reinhardt Leon¡¯s name was called. ¡°Reinhardt Leon!¡± Reinhardt walked to the center of the room with the silent confidence of a man who knew his strength. He placed his hand on the orb, and the familiar light filled the room once more. ¡°Reinhardt Leon has awakened to¡­ Colossus¡¯s Will!¡± The announcer¡¯s voice took on a reverent tone. ¡°Colossus¡¯s Will is a Unique Job that grants its bearer incredible durability and the ability to wield colossal strength. It is said that the user can summon the power of the ancient titans, making them nearly invulnerable to physical damage and able to strike with devastating force. Those who awaken to this job can stand unwavering, a living embodiment of power.¡± Reinhardt gave a slight nod of acknowledgment, though his eyes never left the orb. The power of his job was undeniable, and the crowd took note of the towering figure who now held the potential to be an unmovable wall in battle. As he returned to his seat, Seiji couldn¡¯t help but glance at Tatsuya, who seemed unfazed by the display of strength from the guild representatives. Tatsuya leaned in slightly. ¡°A lot of heavy hitters in the room, huh?¡± Seiji nodded, his mind racing. ¡°Yeah... it¡¯s like the world¡¯s elite are all here, just waiting for their chance to shine.¡± Tatsuya¡¯s gaze flicked over the students who had already awakened their abilities, some with Rare Jobs and others with Unique ones. ¡°And we¡¯re just getting started. There¡¯s no telling what kind of power the next few will unlock.¡± Seiji couldn¡¯t help but wonder about his own future. What kind of power would he awaken to in the end? Would he be able to stand shoulder to shoulder with these powerful figures, or was he destined for something completely different? The ceremony continued, and Seiji''s uncertainty deepened.
The ceremony concluded, and the air in the hall seemed to settle into a quieter, more contemplative energy. Seiji stood amidst a sea of students, each of them processing what had just happened in their own way. Some had awakened to powers that seemed tailor-made for their personalities, while others were still grappling with the weight of their new abilities. It was clear that today was just the beginning, and a whole new world awaited them¡ªone filled with challenges, opportunities, and, for some, unspoken rivalries. Seiji felt a hand clap on his shoulder, pulling him out of his thoughts. He turned to see Tatsuya, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. ¡°Not bad, Seiji. Looks like you¡¯ve got everyone curious now,¡± Tatsuya said, his voice light but with an edge of humor. Seiji gave a half-hearted grin. ¡°Yeah, well, I didn¡¯t exactly expect a recipe book to be my big power.¡± Tatsuya chuckled. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t sell yourself short. You¡¯ve got something pretty unique. We¡¯ll see what you can do with it.¡± Seiji shrugged. ¡°I guess. But honestly, I¡¯m still processing it all. I mean, ¡®Book Owner¡¯? What even is that?¡± ¡°Maybe the book will show you in time,¡± Tatsuya suggested, then nudged him. ¡°But hey, don¡¯t forget, you¡¯ve got me watching your back. We¡¯ll figure this out together.¡± The two shared a moment of camaraderie before they were ushered out of the hall and into the sprawling courtyard of the academy. The tall stone buildings of Tenryu Academy towered around them, their ancient architecture hinting at the long legacy of Awakened students that had passed through the gates. As they walked along the cobbled path, other students milled about, eager to discuss their abilities or to try and make new friends. The excitement was palpable, but so was the unease. The world outside these walls was unpredictable, and everyone knew that their powers were more than just a way to get ahead¡ªthey were a ticket to survival. ¡°I wonder where we¡¯re supposed to go now,¡± Seiji mused aloud, looking around at the bustling academy grounds. ¡°Probably to our dorms,¡± Tatsuya replied, scanning the area. ¡°But you know, I bet there¡¯s more going on than just that. We¡¯re in a school for the Awakened, after all. There¡¯s bound to be some sort of orientation or briefing.¡± Before Seiji could respond, a tall figure approached them¡ªan older student, wearing the insignia of a senior guide. He had an air of authority about him, his confident steps matched only by the calm demeanor on his face. His eyes scanned the crowd, then fixed on Seiji and Tatsuya. ¡°You two are new,¡± he said, his voice smooth and professional. ¡°First years, I assume? Welcome to Tenryu Academy. My name is Ryosuke, and I¡¯m one of the senior guides here. I¡¯ll be showing you around and helping you get settled in. Follow me.¡± Seiji exchanged a glance with Tatsuya, then nodded. "Thanks," he said, feeling a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. As they followed Ryosuke through the academy grounds, they passed by groups of students who had formed small clusters, eagerly talking about their awakenings or comparing their abilities. Some students practiced their powers right then and there¡ªelemental magic crackling in the air, glowing swords being swung in precise patterns, and even a few who seemed to manipulate the very earth beneath their feet. ¡°This place is unreal,¡± Seiji murmured. "I didn''t think it would be so... lively." ¡°Everyone''s excited,¡± Tatsuya agreed. ¡°But it¡¯s not just about showing off your powers here. There¡¯s a lot of pressure, too. Trust me, you¡¯ll see it when classes start.¡± They followed Ryosuke down a wide corridor, the stone walls decorated with banners and heraldry that represented the various guilds. The hallway opened up to a large central courtyard, where statues of legendary Awakened were displayed. The atmosphere here was calm, but it had a certain weight to it¡ªan unspoken reminder of the potential that lay within these walls. Ryosuke stopped in front of a large set of double doors and turned to face them. ¡°This is the entrance to the dormitory wing. First-year students will be assigned rooms here, though you¡¯ll have the opportunity to choose your own later on.¡± Seiji and Tatsuya nodded in acknowledgment, though their attention was drawn to the open courtyard behind Ryosuke. Several towering trees with hanging lanterns provided a sense of serenity amidst the sprawling campus, while the academy¡¯s towers loomed overhead, their spires sharp against the bright blue sky. ¡°Your training will begin tomorrow,¡± Ryosuke continued. ¡°But before that, there will be a briefing on what to expect in the coming months. I suggest you get settled in and prepare. The real challenges start soon enough.¡± With that, he gestured for them to enter. As Seiji stepped through the doors, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a knot tighten in his stomach. He had no idea what awaited him, but one thing was for sure¡ªhis life at Tenryu Academy was about to begin in earnest. The world of the Awakened was vast, and Seiji knew that his path would be anything but ordinary. What he didn¡¯t know, however, was that this school, with all its power and prestige, held secrets of its own¡ªsecrets that would shape his destiny in ways he couldn¡¯t yet imagine.