Chapter 6: The Aftermath of Awakening

Arin couldn't believe how quickly the awakening ceremony had passed. It felt like everything happened in the blink of an eye, a well-oiled machine running smoothly. The presence of the Duke added an extra layer of formality and prestige, making the event even more memorable.

As he reflected on the ceremony, he couldn't help but think back to his friends. Kevin and Frank were just as thrilled as he was. The three of them shared a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Kevin's family, being blacksmiths, were overjoyed. His father was ecstatic despite Kevin awakening a non-combat profession, as he knew it would still bring honor and opportunities to their family. Kevin's sick mother, although frail, beamed with pride.

Frank's parents were equally surprised and delighted. They had not expected their son, who was often seen as slow and unprepared, to awaken. Their joy was palpable, a stark contrast to the nervousness they had felt before the ceremony.

Arin, however, couldn't shake off a lingering sense of unfairness. He thought about his friends Tarin, Liora, and Merina, who had worked just as hard, if not harder, but didn't awaken. The world was inherently unfair, and this was a harsh reminder.

After about five minutes, Ralear approached them with a warm smile. "Congratulations, all three of you. I'm proud of what you've achieved," he said. "Now, let's go to the common room at the school where some refreshments are prepared. The principal will meet us there to explain the next steps."

As they walked together, many townsfolk looked at them with smiles, though some cast envious and resentful glances. The sound of weeping could be heard from those who hadn't awakened, a stark reminder of the ceremony's high stakes.

When they arrived at the common room, it was beautifully decorated with food and drinks laid out. Ralear explained, "This celebration is for the awakened students from the poor class. The wealthy students will have their grand celebration tomorrow in the city's great hall."

Arin, Kevin, and Frank exchanged looks, aware that their journey was just beginning, and they were still far from equal to the wealthy children.

Ralear encouraged them to enjoy the food and drink. About half an hour later, the principal arrived, congratulated them once more, and sat down to give them further instructions.

"The next step for you is to discover your specific professions. This is done through a scroll that will reveal your profession when you touch it," the principal explained. "I'll also guide you on how to summon your attributes so you can understand your strengths and weaknesses. The principal smiled warmly,

Arin knew the cost of the scrolls was not small, making him even more grateful for this opportunity. "You just need to think about it," the principal continued. "Willpower will do it for you. Of course, nobody else can see it, only you, because it's in your mind."

Arin managed to summon his attributes on the second attempt, Kevin on the twentieth, and Frank on the hundredth. Arin compared his stats to what he had learned in school and realized they were not bad at all for level one, suggesting he was suited for a mage or priest profession. The attributes for Arin were as follows:

Strength: 10

Agility: 10

Intelligence: 40

Willpower: 40

Endurance: 25

Mana: 400

Health: 250

Once they had successfully summoned their attributes, the principal distributed three scrolls to them. "Place your hand on the scroll and concentrate on what you feel," he instructed.

Frank went first, placing his hand on the scroll. It glowed and revealed the word "Warrior." The principal nodded approvingly, "A good profession, one of the most useful."

Next was Kevin. The scroll revealed "Herbalist." The principal smiled, "An excellent non-combat profession. Gathering herbs, fungi, and materials is exceptionally lucrative."

Kevin's eyes lit up with excitement, relieved that he had a valuable profession.

Finally, it was Arin's turn. He placed his hand on the scroll, and it revealed "Summoner." The room fell silent as everyone gasped. Even Ralear looked astonished.

The principal smiled warmly, 'Good, very good.'" "Arin, you have awakened one of the rarest professions, typically achieved at level 40, sometimes at 20. You have done it at level 1. You are truly special. Congratulations."

Arin wasn't entirely surprised. He had always felt that the summoner profession was meant for him, especially with the ring's mysterious connection. It all made sense.

Next, they filled out various administrative documents to receive their awakened badges. The principal explained, "You will receive two badges. One is a physical badge, more ceremonial looking, and the second is an imprint from the scroll on your arm."

This badge was essential and had to be carried at all times. It functioned as identification and allowed access to beginner dungeons. It was also a symbol of their new status. The imprint badge was a raised tattoo on the right arm, feeling warm to the touch.

After about half an hour, they discussed their future plans. The principal explained that they no longer needed to attend regular school and should now focus on preparing for higher education, whether it be a war academy, university, or another institution. They needed to research and understand the requirements for these next steps. The school would add personal consultations with teacher Ralear to seek guidance.

They heard footsteps approaching, and when the door opened, the Duke entered, accompanied by four others. Arin immediately stood up and saluted, as he had been taught.

The principal welcomed the Duke and provided him with information about the students' professions and backgrounds. When it was Frank's turn, one of the Duke's companions, who looked like a warrior, took five books from thin air and placed five books on the table

„Arin gasp and think him self how he did it ?"

Dukes warrior looking companion start to speak to frank

and guided Frank in choosing a book. Frank selected his book and left to join his family.

Kevin received 25 gold coins instead of a book, as non-combat professions like herbalists used more advanced books not available at the ceremony. He thanked the Duke and was escorted out.

Finally, it was Arin's turn. The principal explained that Arin had awakened as a summoner. The Duke looked into Arin's eyes and approached him, shaking his hand and speaking with him, asking about his history and family.

As the Duke shook his hand, he noticed the ring. Without warning, he turned Arin's hand to get a closer look at the ring. The room fell silent.