Chapter 83 Professor

As two weeks passed by, Suzuka found herself standing in front of the impressive Magic Box University. Its grand facade towered above her, showcasing its esteemed reputation as a hub of magical knowledge and expertise. Today, a special ceremony was to take place to welcome new students into the university, and Suzuka was eager to be a part of it.

Having spent the past two weeks completing various quests, she was now a proud holder of the rookie rank 2, a testament to her dedication and hard work but her funds plummeted to a total of 11 silver.

 As she stepped into the university, she felt a sense of pride and excitement at being part of such a prestigious institution. The halls of the university were bustling with activity as students and faculty members hurried about their day. Suzuka couldn't help but marvel at the intricate magical artifacts and enchanted objects that adorned the walls and shelves. She felt a sense of awe and wonder at the wealth of knowledge.

With plenty of time left before the ceremony, Suzuka made a decision to indulge in some exploratory wanderings. As she strolled through the majestic halls of the university, she was greeted by the sight of a multitude of students, each engrossed in their own pursuits of knowledge and learning. Some younger students even mistook her for a teacher. It was quite evident that this academic institution was reserved for those born of wealthy, noble families, who possessed a natural proclivity towards mastering the complex art of magic.

To be admitted to this university was a privilege not afforded to many, but Suzuka and a select few had been fortunate enough to secure a spot in the institution's free course. It was a rare opportunity for talented yet financially disadvantaged individuals to acquire the same level of education as their more wealthy peers. It was a welcome opportunity for Suzuka to hone her innate magical abilities. Although the university had many students, Suzuka noticed that adventurers were a rare sight within the institution. 

As Suzuka leisurely strolled through the sprawling grounds of the grand university, she stumbled upon an unfortunate scene. A group of arrogant young men had gathered around a lone noblewoman shrouded in the flower garden's far reaches. It was evident that they were engaged in the act of bullying.

Without wanting to worsen the situation, Suzuka cautiously walked past the group, making sure not to make a sound. She intently observed the scene, trying to make sense of the dynamics at play. The young men appeared to be from noble families, and it was clear that their leader held a higher social status than the woman whom they were taunting.

Suzuka listened to the cruel words being hurled by the young men. The woman looked visibly shaken and scared, with no one around to support her in this moment of vulnerability. The rest of his male companions in the group seemed to support him, and they appeared to be belittling the woman with their unkind words. It was apparent that they were looking down on her because of her lower rank as a one-star MBPU.

 The group's leader seemed to take things a step further by physically assaulting her, and shoving her to the ground. As they walked away, their laughter echoed through the air, a cruel reminder of the injustice that had just taken place. It was a disheartening scene.

Suzuka carefully observed the young man, taking in the details of his stylish attire and well-groomed appearance. With his blond hair and handsome features, he looked every bit the part of a charming prince. However, despite his good looks, Suzuka couldn't shake off a sense of unease about him. She knew better than to judge a book by its cover, but her instincts warned her that this guy was trouble.

Casting a wary glance in his direction, she muttered to herself, "A local scumbag, duly noted." She had no intention of getting involved with some spoiled rich kid who thought he could get away with anything just because of his family's wealth. Suzuka had seen many entitled young men like him causing problems and thought it best to keep her distance.

She turned to leave, hoping to avoid any unpleasant encounters, but as she stepped away, she couldn't help but wonder what the young man's story was. Was he really as arrogant and entitled as she assumed, or was there more to him than met the eye? Suzuka couldn't deny her curiosity, but she knew better than to let her guard down around someone she didn't know. She resolved to stay vigilant and avoid trouble at all costs.

 After brushing the dust off her uniform, the woman stepped away from a group of bullies who had been tormenting her. Suzuka, who happened to witness the incident, watched as the woman disappeared around the corner. Despite feeling sympathetic, Suzuka hesitated to approach the woman, fearing that she might be difficult to talk to, given her current state. She also didn't want to risk getting on the bad side of the bullies who were still lurking around.

The pathetic woman brushed off the grime from her cheap-looking uniform and scurried away like a rat in the opposite direction of her tormentors. Suzuka, who happened to witness the incident, watched as the woman disappeared around the corner. she couldn't help but notice the signs of bullying on the woman and quickly decided to keep her distance. "No way am I getting involved with that troublemaker," she thought to herself, "I don't need some loser prince coming after me because I'm associated with her."

With the clock ticking down, Suzuka hurried through the halls of the school toward the main auditorium. The sun was beginning to set outside, casting a warm orange glow through the windows, and adding to the sense of excitement and anticipation that filled the air. This was a moment, the welcoming ceremony that marked the start of her academic journey at the prestigious institution.

As she made her way to her seat, Suzuka could feel a rush of emotions. Nervousness, excitement, and a hint of anxiety all mixed, creating a unique sensation. She gazed around at the other students, some of whom seemed jittery, while others appeared calm and collected as if they were veterans of such events.

As the last few stragglers made their way in, the lights dimmed, and the principal stepped up to the podium. Suzuka sat as the ceremony began. This was it - the start of her academic journey. 

As the ceremony commenced, a hush fell over the room and everyone took their seats. The teachers filed onto the stage, and the Head of Magic Box University took his place at the podium. With a warm smile and a commanding presence, he began his address.

"Greetings and welcome, esteemed students, faculty, and guests. It is my great pleasure to be standing before you as the head of this illustrious institution. As many of you know, Magic Box University is not your average school - it is a place of higher learning, where results are paramount and mediocrity is not tolerated.

With that in mind, I will keep my remarks brief, so as not to bore you to death. We are all here because we are serious about our education, and we understand that success requires hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

I want to emphasize that we are not here to coddle you or hold your hand. This is a place for adults, and as such, you are expected to take responsibility for your learning and progress. No one will seek you out or babysit you. You have the freedom to structure your time as you see fit, as long as you meet the high standards we have set for you.

But let me be clear - if you fail, the only person to blame is yourself. We are here to provide you with the resources and guidance you need to succeed, but it is up to you to seize those opportunities and make the most of them.

So, with that in mind, I wish you all the best of luck in your studies. May your time here be fruitful, challenging, and rewarding. Thank you." With a final nod, the Head of Magic Box University stepped away from the podium, and the audience burst into applause.

Each of the 10 teachers made their way up to the podium, one by one, to deliver their brief introduction and welcome speech. 

Professor Johnson Greene, the stern-faced history teacher, kicked things off by outlining the exciting curriculum for the upcoming term. 
Professor Rodger Woodruff -  Combat, Defence and Physical Education. He followed with a spirited welcome that left everyone feeling energized.
Professor Jennifer Wong - Magic Box Power Combat. She was calm and collected. Her speech was short and strict. 
Professor Lorraine Silva - Elemental Magic and Control. She kept her speech short and professional.
Professor Jonathan Stone - Ancient Runes and Magic Letters. He delivered a short explanation of his teaching. 
Professor Penelope Moonstone - Astronomy and Astrology. She said a heartwarming welcome to new and existing students then stated the importance of her teachings.
Professor Harvey Finch - Potion Making and Alchemy. He was quick and straight to the point. A short welcome and a short introduction.
Professor Felix Crystal - Enchantments and Illusion. He was a comical and charismatic old man, he was throwing jokes left and right. He took the longest to introduce himself, but the crowd liked him the most judging by reactions from the crowd.
Professor Derek Wilson - Magical Law. He was professional, and straight to the point. He was rushing and looked like he was in a hurry. 
Professor Isadora Nightshade - Necromancy and Biology. She delivered a brief introduction and welcome speech.

  As the hour drew to a close, the last of the teachers finished their introductions and the attendees dispersed to explore the school's faculties and classrooms. As a new student who was still getting familiar with the campus, Suzuka joined the expedition. As she walked through the halls, she was struck by the impressive facilities and the sheer number of courses on offer.

During her exploration, Suzuka noticed a young woman who seemed to be struggling. She recognized her as the same girl who had been bullied earlier in the day. Suzuka kept her distance, not wanting to be associated with someone who was considered a "loser". She knew it was essential to befriend the popular kids if she wanted to succeed at this university.