Chapter 9: The Class President Proposal

As the last remnants of magic faded from the air, Professor Alden Graves surveyed the students with a thoughtful gaze. Some were still reeling from their first real encounter with controlled arcane power, while others were already analyzing their own performances.

With a nod, he finally spoke. "That will be all for today's session."

A collective exhale rippled through the class, but Graves wasn't finished. "From this point forward, you are free to decide how you spend your time. Whether you train further, study other disciplines, or observe different classes, the choice is yours." His sharp gaze swept over them. "But be mindful—power means nothing without control. Use your time wisely."

With that, he turned, his dark robes billowing as he left the hall.

The room erupted into movement. Some students immediately began discussing where to go next, while others silently contemplated their next steps.

Winter Briaella Cross brushed a bit of frost off her fingertips, deep in thought. Chrisha Van Dele and Aella Reeze Wilson exchanged glances—both had been considering exploring new areas of study. Meanwhile, Kaesy Dane Seneca, still fuming from her loss to Professor Vaughn, was already heading toward the training grounds.

The Academy was vast, and endless opportunities lay ahead. Now, it was up to them to decide how to use their free time.

As students began murmuring about their plans for free time, a confident voice suddenly cut through the chatter.

"Before we all scatter," Theodore Janssen said, stepping forward, "I have a suggestion."

The room quieted as eyes turned toward him. Even those who had been preparing to leave paused, intrigued by the sudden interruption.

Theodore clasped his hands behind his back, his expression composed. "We're a class, aren't we? We should have a leader—someone who can represent us, organize matters, and speak on our behalf when needed." His gaze swept over the group. "In short, I propose we elect a class president."

A murmur of interest rippled through the students. Some exchanged glances, while others raised eyebrows at the idea.

Professor Graves, who had been halfway to leaving, stopped and turned slightly, watching with mild amusement but saying nothing. He seemed curious to see how they would handle this themselves.

A brief silence followed Theodore's words, students exchanging uncertain glances. Then, Khierra Sky Smith stepped forward, her arms crossed as she spoke with confidence.

"Like each kingdom needs a king to rule and keep things in harmony," she said, her voice clear, "I think we need that too."

Some students nodded in agreement, while others still seemed undecided. The idea of structure in a place filled with strong personalities and different abilities was appealing—but who would take on that role?

Theodore smirked slightly. "Exactly my point. Without a leader, we'll just be individuals thrown together with no sense of direction." He glanced at the professor, who still remained silent, merely observing. "So, let's do this properly. Nominations, anyone?"

The tension in the room shifted. This was no longer just an idea—it was happening.

"So?" Theodore continued. "What do you all think?"

Some students nodded in agreement, while others crossed their arms, waiting to see how this would unfold.

The room had barely settled into the idea when Charline Oneida casually raised her hand.

"I nominate Kaesy Dane Seneca," she announced with a smirk. "I mean, she's strong—and she even fought back against Professor Vaughn."

A few murmurs spread through the class. Some nodded in agreement, recalling Kaesy's duel, while others seemed uncertain.

Kaesy, who had been standing with her arms crossed, scoffed. "Fought back?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow at Charline. "You mean got humiliated in front of everyone?"

Charline grinned. "Semantics. You still held your ground."

Theodore folded his arms, considering the nomination. "Strength is important," he admitted, "but being class president isn't just about fighting. It's about leadership."

Kaesy exhaled sharply, then rolled her shoulders. "If anyone thinks I'd be a good leader, they clearly weren't paying attention to that match."

Despite her protest, eyes were still on her. Would she accept or reject the nomination? And would someone else step up to challenge it?

Before Kaesy could dismiss the idea further, Celsy Rielle De Obelia stepped forward, her expression firm.

"To be a good leader and display the values of leadership," she stated, "you need to be strong. And I think Kaesy is the best choice for that."

A few murmurs of agreement rippled through the class. Strength had always been a defining trait among the students at Elitia Academy, and Kaesy had already proven she wasn't afraid to stand her ground—even against a professor.

Kaesy sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. "You're all really pushing this, huh?"

Charline smirked. "Afraid of responsibility?"

Kaesy shot her a look but didn't respond. The room was waiting—would she accept the nomination, or would someone else challenge her for the position?

Kaesy let out a sharp breath, glancing at the expectant faces around her. Charline looked amused, Celsy stood firm, and Theodore observed with a knowing smirk.

"Then fine," Kaesy said at last, crossing her arms. "If you all think I should be president, I'll do it."

A few approving nods and murmurs spread through the class. Some students looked relieved, while others remained skeptical.

Theodore gave a satisfied nod. "Then it's settled. Kaesy Dane Seneca is our class president."

Khierra smirked. "Let's see if you can keep this kingdom in class, then."

Kaesy rolled her eyes. "Don't expect me to babysit anyone."

Laughter echoed through the room as the class unofficially accepted their new leader. Whether Kaesy liked it or not, her role had just begun.

Before the excitement could settle, Theodore Janssen stepped forward once again, his expression calm yet authoritative.

"Now that we have a president," he said, "let's move on to the vice president."

A few students exchanged glances, some curious, others indifferent.

"We need someone who can support the president, handle responsibilities, and keep things in order when necessary," Theodore continued. "Any nominations?"

The room fell into a brief silence as students began thinking about potential candidates. Who would step up next?

The room was quiet for a moment until Rey Vien Windsor casually raised his hand.

"I nominate Winter Briaella Cross," he said confidently.

Eyes turned toward Winter, who had been sitting silently at the edge of the group. Her icy-blue gaze flickered with mild surprise, but she remained composed.

Some students nodded in approval—Winter was known for her intelligence and composed demeanor. Others waited to see if she would accept or if another nomination would follow.

Theodore nodded. "A solid choice. Winter, do you accept?"

All eyes were on her now. Would she take on the role?

"I... I—" Winter Briaella Cross stammered, her usual composure faltering for a moment.

Before she could finish, Micko Lee rolled his eyes and blurted, "Just accept it."

A few chuckles echoed through the room, while Winter shot him a glare. She exhaled, regaining her usual cool demeanor.

"Fine," she said at last, crossing her arms. "I'll do it."

Theodore nodded in approval. "Then it's decided. Winter Briaella Cross is our vice president."

With that, the leadership of Elitia Academy's class was officially in place. Now, it was time to see if they could live up to their new roles.