The First-Year Representative

The Academy had changed in the past six months, and so had Ethan von Barón.

From a once-dismissed noble heir to the most talked-about first-year, Ethan's presence had become undeniable.

Through training, battles, and strategy, he had cemented his place among the most promising students in the Academy.

But with great talent came great scrutiny.

And that was why, on this day, he found himself summoned to the Student Council Hall.

The hall was grand yet imposing—lined with banners representing each grade's elite.

At the head of the table sat Gabriel Aurelius, the Student Council President, heir to the Holy Nation, and the next Pope.

His golden eyes gleamed with wisdom as he observed Ethan.

"You've caused quite a stir, Ethan Baron," Gabriel said. "And the Council does not ignore rising stars."

Beside him, the Second-Year Representative, Selena of the Crescent Moon Clan, regarded Ethan with curiosity.

"So, what do you want from me?" Ethan asked, his tone neutral.

Gabriel smirked.

"We want you to join the Student Council—as the First-Year Representative."

A murmur went around the room.

"Each year has a representative," Gabriel continued. "A student who acts as the bridge between their peers and the Council."

"And you've been chosen."

Ethan's eyes narrowed. He wasn't naive—this was a way to monitor him.

But it also meant access to power, information, and influence.

"I accept," Ethan said.

Over the past six months, Ethan had made strategic allies and rivals:

Cedric Valefor– His former rival had become a trusted sparring partner. Their mutual respect was built on battle and ambition.

Lucia Valcrest – A noble heir from a powerful merchant house. She had tried to recruit Ethan into her family's circle, seeing him as an investment.

Darian Blackthorne – A mysterious second-year, heir to a fallen noble family. Darian had subtly tested Ethan multiple times, gauging his potential.

Iris Gale– The commoner girl who kept stalking him. She was studying his weaknesses—yet despite her intentions, Ethan saw something interesting in her tenacity.

Upperclassmen Awareness – Some third and fourth-years had started noticing him—some with amusement, others with wariness.

Ethan wasn't just growing stronger—he was becoming a player in the Academy's hidden power struggles.

The Academy Bell tolled.

The students gathered in the Grand Assembly Hall, where the Headmistress stood with an air of authority.

"In three weeks, the First-Year Tournament will begin," she declared. "A test of skill, strategy, and power."

The announcement sent shockwaves through the student body.

"This will determine the rising stars of your generation," the Headmistress continued.

"Prepare well."

"So it begins."

Ethan had been waiting for this.

This was the perfect stage to unveil his progress.

A chance to study his competition, eliminate threats early, and rise even higher.

With his new title as First-Year Representative, he knew one thing:

"I won't just participate. I'll dominate."