Admission Day

Today is April 5, also known as Admissions Day for the Advance Supernatural Training High School. Nina and I set out early that morning to catch the train to Solaris, the city where ASTHS is located. We promptly boarded the train, and after two hours of travel, we arrived in the city. From there, it took us another 15 minutes of walking to reach the gates of ASTHS.

The exterior of the school building showcased modern architecture, rising three stories high. Upon entering, we were led to a large auditorium, beautifully decorated with seating areas for parents. The applicants stood in the auditorium, some accompanied by their parents while others were by themselves. In truth, I had little experience interacting with people my age, which put me at a slight disadvantage.

The air buzzed with chatter as applicants mingled and got to know one another. I, on the other hand, stood beside Nina, unsure of what to do or how to act. I awkwardly glanced around the room at the others as they engaged in conversation.

"So this is how people my age act," I mumbled.

Nina must have heard me because she was quick to respond, "Why don't you go introduce yourself? Take it from me, you don't want to be the guy in school who has no friends."

"Who should I talk to, and what should I even say?"

"Just tell them your name and maybe mention a hobby." Nina turned her head, surveying the courtyard, then stopped and pointed at someone. "Why don't you go talk to that girl? She seems to be having trouble socializing, just like you."

The person in question was a chubby young girl around my age. She stood there, longing, as she looked around the room while the others mingled, completely oblivious to her presence. I steeled my nerves and started walking over to her. I reached out to tap her on the shoulder, but just then...

"Um... excuse me!"

I turned to face the direction of the voice and saw a girl my age. She gave a polite wave and stepped closer so we were face to face.

"Is there a problem?" I asked.

"Uh... oh, no, no problem at all!" she said, waving her hands frantically in an exaggerated motion. "It's just that, um... I wanted to talk to you. I hope I'm not bothering you."

"No, it's fine. I was just a bit surprised."

"Oh, thank goodness!" she exclaimed, placing her hand on her chest in relief. "My name is Mia Adler. It's nice to meet you."

"I'm Sin Tenshi, and my hobby is baking."

"Baking? That's cool, I guess. Hey, do you mind if we exchange phone numbers? I don't really know anyone here at this school, and I think it would be nice to hang out because I think you're really cool."

"You think I'm cool? What gave you that impression? We've only just met."

"Well... it's just that... you know..."

She began to trail off, looking a bit flustered by my question as she constantly brushed her short brown hair behind her ear. The more I looked at her, the more I realized she was actually very cute. She had a certain charm about her.

"I'd be happy to exchange numbers," I decided to speak up.

"Really? That's great!"

And so we exchanged contact information. Aside from Nina and a few regulars at the shop, I didn't have anyone else's phone number.

"Well, I guess we'll see each other when school starts," she said before leaving.

Having introduced myself to someone already, I decided to return to where Nina was standing. Just then, a striking figure entered the auditorium and stepped onto the stage.

"Good day, and welcome to the Advance Supernatural Training High School. I am Headmaster Monroe Pottinger."

The headmaster, a beautiful woman who appeared to be in her late thirties, gave off an impression of someone who firmly believed in discipline.

"As I'm sure you're all aware, the only requirement for acceptance into our school is to prove that you possess a supernatural ability. How you do so is strictly up to you. You will be ranked and placed in classes, and you will also be given a title. There are only four classes accessible to first years: Classes A to D, with A being the strongest and D the weakest. Regarding 'Titles,' they fall under six categories: Shapeshifters, Manifesters, Enhancers, Manipulators, Specialists, and Anomalies."

According to the headmaster, Shapeshifters are those who can change their physical appearance. Manifesters are individuals whose supernatural abilities allow them to create any form of energy or materials. Enhancers can boost their physical attributes, enabling them to perform superhuman feats. Manipulators can bend existing forces to their will, such as fire, water, or air. Specialists are those who can use two or more of these categories, while Anomalies possess abilities that don't fit into any of the existing categories.

"So, without further ado, let's begin the admission test. Applicants must form a line and come onto the stage, one at a time to demonstrate their abilities."

Since becoming human, I had refined my skills, and I was sure everyone would be blown away by my talent. I was confident I would be placed in Class A, the highest among the four classes. I stood in line, waiting for my turn to showcase my ability, patiently watching as the other applicants demonstrated their powers. Their abilities ranged from super strength and pyrokinesis to flight. Many could transform into various animals and beasts. Mia showcased her telekinesis, impressively earning a spot in Class A.

Finally, my time came. I confidently walked onto the stage, feeling the eyes of everyone on me. Nina stood by, holding her breath as she watched. I could hear murmurs and whispers directed at me but I paid them no mind at all. They would soon get a glance at what I'm capable of. I opened my bag and took out a candle, about 4 inches in diameter and 8 inches tall. I placed the candle on the table and stepped back.

Taking a deep breath, I stretched out my hand to focus on the candle. Just like that, the candle began to melt uncontrollably. I perfectly regulated the temperature to make sure the candle would melt at a steady rate. As the once-solid structure melted the wax emitted a sweet scent that filled the auditorium. It didn't last long; in less than a minute, the candle was reduced to a pool of sludge on the table. The candle never even stood a chance.

As I finished, the judges began to discuss among themselves. I stood confidently, already certain of my class assignment. With my display of skill, I knew I would be placed in the highest class. My performance was truly impressive; I never thought I could gain such control over my powers to the point where I could use them without melting everything in my vicinity. This was only the beginning; with proper training, I could even master my other abilities too.

"Sin Tenshi, you will be assigned to Class D with the title of Manipulator."