House System

The classroom remained quiet as Hoshino Mei's words lingered in the air. The weight of what she had just introduced was beginning to sink in, and the students exchanged glances, some intrigued, others uncertain.

"Now," Hoshino continued, adjusting her stance at the front of the room, "I'll explain how this system will affect your life at Reikou Academy."

She turned to the board, where the names of the four Houses remained displayed.

The House System

"At its core, the House System exists to foster growth—academically, physically, and socially. Your House will be your home, your team, and in many ways, your identity during your time here. It will influence your dormitory placement, the competitions you participate in, and even your academic and extracurricular development."

She let the words sink in before continuing.

"Each House has its own strengths and philosophy. Your placement is not random. Instead, we have a process in place to determine where you truly belong."

She allowed a brief pause before delivering the key announcement.

"One week from now, all first-year students will participate in the House Selection Event."

A murmur rippled through the room. Kazuki's brows furrowed slightly as he exchanged glances with his friends.

Hoshino smiled, expecting the reaction. "This event is designed to test various aspects of your skills and personality—academic aptitude, athletic ability, leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving. Over the course of several activities, the Houses will evaluate your strengths, and at the end, they will extend invitations to those they believe best align with their values."

A few hands went up. Hoshino gestured toward a student near the back.

"So, we don't get to choose where we go?" the student asked.

Hoshino shook her head. "Not quite. If multiple Houses wish to recruit you, you will have the right to choose among them. However, if only one House extends an invitation, that is where you will be placed."

Kazuki leaned back in his chair, considering the implications. A merit-based selection… that meant this wasn't just a formality. It was a competition.

The Prestige System

"As students of Reikou Academy, you will accumulate Prestige Points throughout the year based on your achievements—academics, extracurriculars, House competitions, and personal accomplishments. These points contribute to your individual ranking and your House's overall standing."

Naoto adjusted his glasses, clearly interested. "What do the points actually affect?"

"Good question." Hoshino nodded. "Prestige Points influence access to exclusive resources—special training facilities, additional academic support, and even priority selection for certain school events. The higher your House's standing, the greater its influence within the academy."

Reo crossed his arms, smirking. "So, bragging rights?"

Hoshino chuckled. "That too. But it's more than that. Houses that dominate competitions earn privileges that can make their students' school life easier. And for individuals, high Prestige can open doors to mentorships, leadership positions, and recommendations beyond this academy."

Kazuki stayed silent, absorbing the information. This was a lot bigger than just dormitory assignments.

"As for living arrangements," Hoshino continued, "each student will have their own personal room. Dormitories are divided by House, with common areas designated for each group. While you have personal space, teamwork is still expected, and House pride is encouraged."

"That's a relief," Daiki muttered under his breath. "I thought we'd have to share rooms."

"The rules here are simple," Hoshino went on. "Respect the school, your peers, and your House. There will be regular competitions and challenges, and while we encourage rivalry, it must remain respectful."

She glanced around the room before adding, "Breaking the rules, on the other hand, will cost you Prestige Points. Repeated offenses may result in suspension from House activities or, in extreme cases, academic penalties."

Some students tensed at that, realizing this system had real consequences.

As Hoshino wrapped up her explanation, the class began to buzz with conversation.

"A whole event just to decide Houses?" Reo muttered. "This school really doesn't play around."

"I guess it makes sense," Naoto replied. "If they're investing so much in this system, they want to make sure people fit where they belong."

Daiki stretched, looking unbothered. "Sounds like a lot of work."

Kyouya shrugged. "It's just a week away. We should start preparing."

Kazuki remained quiet, his gaze flickering toward the board once more. He hadn't even thought about which House he'd end up in… but now, it was all starting to feel real.

Hoshino clapped her hands together, drawing attention back to the front. "That's all for now. More details about the event will be posted soon, but for now—welcome again to Reikou Academy. Your journey begins now."

And just like that, the first step into their new life had begun.