Homeroom
Alibaba
Alibaba made sure that today, time was on his side. He got ready for school much faster than he normally did, even getting the chance to sit with his brothers over breakfast. Today was the day he'll meet his classmates and this time he won't be sweating like crazy and he won't be tailed by a certain blue haired, braid wearing thief. Alibaba left the house in a great mood. The sun was out and the early morning breeze felt cool against his flawless skin. Nothing could spoil his morning!
"Alibaba-kun!"
'Oh no.'
He will not turn around. Did his mind imagine Aladdin's cheerful voice? Yeah, that was it. There was no way the kid was standing behind him.
"Alibaba-kun?"
The blond turned on his heel, face drooping as he beheld a pair of wide sapphire eyes. Eyes belonging to the kid he blamed for all the bad stuff that happened to Alibaba yesterday. The blue haired boy smiled, with an outstretched arm he offered Alibaba a brown paper bag, "Good morning, and here. I asked Ugo-kun to make one for you."
Alibaba stole the bag. Suspicious, he opened it to find a warm doughnut, glazed with white frosting and rainbow sprinkles, "It's jelly-filled, the kind he makes for me when I do something good. He said it's for getting to school on time yesterday."
'Ugo-kun' sounded like a really nice guy, anyone who made doughnuts on a whim must be saintly, "Is he your dad?"
Alibaba noticed the slight waver in Aladdin's smile before the blue haired boy answered, "No, he's my guardian but he's also my father's best friend."
Alibaba had enough tact to know when to not press any further. He took the baked pastry out of the paper bag, a smile forming on his face, "Thank you, Aladdin." He might not be a rotten kid after all.
"You're welcome. Also, Ugo-kun said he'd love to meet you since you're my first friend, Alibaba-kun!" Aladdin's exuberance returned ten-fold.
"Your first friend?" Alibaba asked incredulously.
"Yep!" Aladdin nodded, smiling brightly.
They began their journey to school. Alibaba couldn't help but memorize the way the doughnut looked, turning it around within his fingers. It truly was a masterpiece. He wanted to savor it but at the same time he was curious about its taste, along with the mystery filling inside. Alibaba took a large bite, chewing with gusto. He paused, taking a look at the doughnut once again, "Aladdin, didn't you say it was jelly-filled?"
"It was!" Aladdin confirmed with a nod.
Alibaba doesn't taste any jelly, "You mean, it is?"
"No, it was." The thing's hollow!
'Of all the– he ate the inside!'
Alibaba sighed in frustration, eating his shell of a doughnut in silence while Aladdin hummed an upbeat tune. For a greedy little runt, Alibaba guessed that this must be a very big act of kindness on Aladdin's part.
"Excuse us, commoners!"
The two boys cast a glance behind them as a huge man walked between them, his entire face covered with a dirty mask minus his left eye. In his bulky arms was a teenage boy adorned in fancy clothes, well combed dark hair tied with a white bandana and a cheeky smile as if he owns everything. Not far behind them was the girl Alibaba bumped into the day before. He gasped at the sight of her, carrying two large schoolbags and a load of books in her hands while following the laughing boy's parade in the direction of their school. She looked at Alibaba before her ruby eyes found the sidewalk.
"Alibaba-kun, it's that cute girl we met yesterday. Why's she carrying all their stuff?" Aladdin inquired when the three were out of earshot.
The blond shrugs, "Not sure."
"She's like a slave." Aladdin didn't look happy, neither did Alibaba.
Is the red head being bullied by those two? "Well, it's none of our business so let's hurry before we miss anything."
In ten minutes, they arrived at school. The building was traditional in design, its tall walls painted cherry and white. There were other buildings surrounding the main one that Alibaba has never been to and the school field took up half the property.
Alibaba was curious, "Say, Aladdin."
"Hmm?" The blue haired boy turned to the taller blond.
"Is there any specific reason you want to attend this school, even if Ugo-kun chose it for you?" Kou High School isn't your run of the mill school after all.
"Yes." Aladdin nodded, "I want to learn many things about this power I possess." 'Power?'
Now Alibaba was really curious, "Which is…?"
"You'll see." Aladdin teased, opening the doors to the school's main entrance.
Kou High School had a reputation of housing many prodigies who have attained powers beyond human understanding. These powers weren't wielded by just anyone. Sure, a regular person can practice swordplay or enhance their stamina and agility but there are powers in their world that go above and beyond that. One of those powers – which always allured Alibaba's sights - was the power to wield a Metal Vessel. Only Seventy-Two Metal Vessels existed in their world, or so they say. The interest in that type of power sprung up when Alibaba was a young child, barely able to understand as his mother and father – before their deaths – asked him what he wanted to be when he was older. Alibaba always loved to watch his father's swordplay and chose to become a guard or officer – someone who protects others. His mother shared many stories about Metal Vessels and how only a select few can use them. Those with the potential to do so attain their metal vessels as they grow older or through situations that happen during their lifetime. Every Metal Vessel was different and could be used for all sorts of things, whether for noble causes or selfish gain. Alibaba didn't think he was special enough to get a Metal Vessel in his lifetime, but that didn't stop him from wanting to come to this school and learn more about fighting, so one day he can make his future ambition a reality.
The new students have already assembled in the auditorium, awaiting the arrival of their new instructors. Alibaba waited patiently in his seat besides Aladdin who made conversation with a tan skinned boy of white hair, a pipe in his mouth and…a snake around his neck?!
'Okay, this place is a magnet for the weird. First, a principal that can't stop smiling, then a guy with a snake around his neck. Next I'll see people who can fly.'
The double doors to the packed auditorium open without warning, revealing a tall man and four other figures standing behind him. He wore golden hoop earrings and long waist-length purple hair. Adorned in jewelry of every kind, he held an award-winning smile as he entered, commanding all attention in the room, "Good morning, everyone. I hope you all had a good night's rest."
As if on cue, clusters of girls swooned in their seats, screaming at the teacher in utter adoration. If only that were Alibaba. But, didn't that guy look familiar?
The man walked assertively into the room with the others not far behind. They all sat at a vacant table before the wide auditorium stage where their address took place yesterday, all except the guy who spoke as he climbed the side steps to the stage, "Now now, settle down everyone. Today, we're going to assign you all to your homerooms," At the end of his sentence, there was furious clapping, "Now these are subject to change as your high school life progresses." Another round of applause goes off and a white haired guy at the table facepalms, "How rude of me, I forgot to introduce myself. Since we're all going to get well acquainted, you'll all address me as Sinbad." His smile oozed confidence.
"Sinbad-sama!" Almost every girl cried in unison.
'Okay, what is really wrong with this place!'
Sinbad cleared his throat with a satisfied smile, clearly basking in the praise, "As I was saying, on my right and the only female is Yamraiha, Class A's homeroom teacher."
The cerulean haired beauty stood, facing the crowd with a tiny wave. Alibaba had to admit, her outfit wasn't exactly safe for school, considering this was a co-ed school, "Aladdin isn't what she's wearing a bit…Aladdin?"
The kid's drooling!
Aladdin hugged himself while shivering, his sights never leaving the teacher.
"Next to Yam is Sharrkan, Class D's homeroom teacher."
The dark skinned instructor stood next, grinning like mad, "Yo!" Alibaba noticed the sword at the man's side.
"All the way to my left is Masrur, Class C's teacher." The red head didn't face the crowd but nodded in acknowledgement.
"And finally, besides him is Ja'far, this year's Dean of Discipline."
"Pleasure to make your acquaintance." The white haired man clad in green and white robes bowed before taking his seat.
"I forgot to mention that I'm Class B's instructor so for those of you who'll be in my class, get ready to work hard, but have some fun along the way." The high pitched screams of the female population gave Alibaba a headache.
'Wait, is he...that Sinbad?!' Alibaba finally pieced it together. The legendary Sinbad, holder of seven Metal Vessels and the man who received the first one in existence when he was just a teenager! 'I have to get into Class B!'
"Now then, we'll call each of you onto the stage and you'll show us what you've got."
'Huh?' Alibaba was glad, he wasn't the only one who looked bewildered.
"This is how we'll classify you into classes. You either show off what you're capable of, or you get out of the building. Simple as that." Sinbad took his seat at the table's center.
Alibaba didn't have a plan, but he had confidence in his skills so there shouldn't be a problem. The thing was, will he make a lasting impression?
Sinbad called out the first name, "Aladdin, you're up first."
Alibaba glanced at the boy besides him who popped out of his seat, "Wish me luck, Alibaba-kun."
"Yeah." Alibaba was extremely pretty curious about what Aladdin can do. The kid carried a staff around and was so vague when asked about his skills earlier.
Aladdin slid through the row then descended to the stage where he smiled politely at the panel of instructors, "Good morning!" He greeted them, his smile made of pure sunshine, "I'm Aladdin, nice to meet you."
"We already know that, but okay. What's your reason for attending this school?" Sinbad asked, propping his elbows onto the table and interlocking his fingers together, resting his chin on top of them. He observed Aladdin with a twinkle of curiosity in his gold eyes.
Aladdin's sweet voice travelled throughout the entire auditorium, "I want to learn more about this world and more about my power."
"Well, that's very simple." Ja'far commented.
"Show us what that power is, Aladdin." Sinbad pressed the blue haired boy who nodded while holding his staff outward.
Making sure that no one was in the line of fire, a string of words left his lips, "Har-Har Infigar!" Radiant fireballs suddenly danced around Aladdin, shocking most in the audience. Aladdin moved his staff in a circular sweep, the balls of flame moving in sync with him. The flames dispersed in an explosive display and Aladdin smiled widely.
'Amazing!' Alibaba couldn't help his surprise. He really wasn't expecting that.
A single round of applause was heard after everyone else was done cheering for the boy. The female teacher at the table gave Aladdin a standing ovation, "That was excellent!" She cheered, causing Aladdin to blush.
"Definitely Class A." All the men minus the red head said together.
Aladdin grinned happily, running offstage to his new teacher. She smiled back in return but screamed seconds later as Aladdin attached himself to her slim waist.
"W-what's with that kid!" Sharrkan said, his voice flustered.
Aladdin was sent flying across the auditorium by the teacher who hugged herself protectively.
'Now I see why Aladdin was forced out of all his other schools.' Alibaba deadpanned.
Sinbad's laugh hung around the atmosphere, "No harm done, right Yam?"
The female soon found her composure, sitting in her seat with a glare pinned on Aladdin. He slowly stood on shaky feet.
"Well, let's continue." Sinbad urged and proceedings rolled once again.
Alibaba learned by witnessing all the performances by his new classmates that there were all sorts of people everywhere. His sights beheld techniques and abilities he never thought were possible. Aladdin was a magic user. Where Alibaba lives, he's never seen anything like it! There was so much in their world that he doesn't know about. Maybe he'll take a page from Aladdin's philosophy and learn about the world. Said kid was still healing from being tossed off like that, but he had it coming.
"Next we have Hakuei." Sinbad's tone matched his avid interest in the next student.
A dark haired girl stood from a seat closer to the front with a fancy feather bound fan in her right hand. She confidently walked onto the stage, bowing with a fist covered by the other hand.
"My name is Hakuei Ren, it's a pleasure." She looked just as old as the teachers at the table.
'Ren?' Alibaba stared at the girl whose hair matched the principal's, they even had matching moles! The wonders of genetics, 'She's definitely related to the principal.'
"Hey there, Hakuei. Never thought I'd be seeing you here. Mind telling us why you decided to enroll?" Sinbad inquired.
The girl smiled kindly, absently tapping her cheek with her fan, "Just as all my other classmates, I'm here to learn more about my power and myself. I might be a bit older than most but age is just a number when it comes to education, right?"
"True enough. Now, let's have it." Sinbad announced.
"Certainly." Hakuei held out her fan before her, dark eyes closed in concentration, "Spirit of Maniacal Love and Chaos, I order thine ancestors to use my Magoi to give me power, come out, Paimon!" A violent gust of wind blew Alibaba backwards, slapping him in the face multiple times. There was a small panic in the auditorium, it dies just as the winds receded.
Alibaba couldn't believe his eyes. This is the first time he's witnessing a Djinn Equip up close!
Hakuei's appearance transformed to that of a wind goddess with pure white feathers attached to her pink, white and gold armor. A metal headband snakes across her head, decorated with vibrant feathers while her hair had paled to a frosty snow white, graciously tumbling behind her back. Once a regular fan, now a deathly trident in her hands and the girl smiled before uttering her next words, "Magul Al-Hazard." A miniature tornado encircled Hakuei's body, she hovered above the stage, riding the winds with regal grace.
Alibaba notes Aladdin's enchanted stare, the boy was completely in awe. Hakuei willed the winds to disperse as she lightly dropped to her feet onstage, her natural appearance returning as she bowed reverently.
"That was-" "Amazing!" When words failed Alibaba, Aladdin finished them off for him. A deafening round of applause assaulted his ears, followed by Sinbad's giddy remarks.
"That was excellent!" The man grinned, high expectations in his sights, "Looks like you'll be joining me."
"Can't wait." The girl nodded before heading to her seat where those closest to Hakuei pestered her with questions and amazed looks.
"Next we have Pisti." Sinbad said, looking up from his documents.
A voice sulked to their left, "I don't want to."
Every student turned around, honing in on a little girl who looked about Aladdin's age with blonde hair and a red headband.
"Come on, I'm asking you nicely." Sinbad said as if he had experience in dealing with the blonde.
Pisti groaned tiredly, her high-pitched tone utterly bored, "You already know what I can do so why bother?"
"Don't you want to show off?" Sinbad offered.
She blew out a long sigh, "Fine."
The girl in her light pink attire slowly crept to the stage, she mustered a depressing, "Hi."
"Mind telling us your name?" Sinbad gave her a wry smile.
The girl fought off a glare, "It's Pisti, you already know that!"
Sinbad laughed, "Okay, so tell us why you're here."
"Because you told me to get on the stage." The auditorium was consumed by pockets of giggling.
Sinbad ignored the comment, "Show us what you can do."
"Sure." The blond pulled something out of her short hair. It was a tiny flute. She placed the instrument between her pink lips and the auditorium doors opened, a fluffy white bird flew into the room. It soared straight towards Pisti who jumps at the right moment, landing on its back. They both fly over the crowd before she commanded the animal by playing her instrument and they both land on the stage. Pisti smiled at the bird, willing it away with the sweet sound of her flute, "Happy now?"
"Class C."
"I knew that already, Sin." Pisti rolled her eyes, making her exit off stage and Aladdin watched her with keen interest.
"What's with that look?" Alibaba couldn't help but ask his little companion.
Aladdin vocalized his deduction, "She's a Household Vessel user."
Alibaba didn't think of that, "Next we have…Kougyoku Ren." Sinbad announced.
Another female took center stage. She wore pink robes in the same traditional style as the principal. 'Another Ren. I wonder how many children the principal has.'
"Good day." She bowed, a raised sleeve covering the lower half of her face.
Sinbad fixed his sheets of paper in a neat bundle, "How are you today, Kougyoku?"
"I am fine, thank you." The girl responded haughtily.
"What's you reason for joining us here today?" The purple haired teacher asked.
"Well, I'm only here because I was forced–" Her eyes flashed with fright for a second, "I was…so interested in learning!"
Alibaba glanced in the direction where Kougyoku's sights landed, noticing how the auditorium doors suddenly closed without a sound. Weird.
"Okay then, show us what you've got." Sinbad said gleefully.
"Are you sure?" The girl raised a perfectly done eyebrow, "I don't wish to harm anyone." Her lighthearted speech changed drastically when she pulled off the pretty clip holding her dark pink hair in place, "But if you insist." She smirked dangerously, the golden clip in her hands glowing, "Spirit of Sorrow and Isolation, in the name of my Magoi and my will to grant me a greater power, I order you and your members, come forth, Vinea!"
A wave of aquamarine water twisted across Kougyoku's tiny frame, coating her body as magenta hair was dyed a cyan hue. Her fancy clothing also transformed, with blue scales clinging to her body. In her right hand was a large blue sword, a dragon ornament at its hilt. Kougyoku smiled sadistically, jumping into the air, "Vainel Arros!" A large vortex of water curled around her weapon, making a spear shaped formation that could wipe anything out in just one move.
Sharrkan and Ja'far stood quickly, as if ready to take on the attack but Sinbad was one step ahead of them. He jumped onto the stage and into the air, attempting to seize Kougyoku's deadly weapon. With the simplest brush of his fingers to her arm, Kougyoku's transformation dematerialized into oblivion and she fell through the air. Terrified gasps filled the room, coupled with Kougyoku's screams. She was caught in the sturdy arms of Sinbad who perfectly landed on his feet.
"Are you alright?" He asked, concern evident on his features. Their faces were merely an inch apart. Kougyoku screams much louder than before, shoving him off with embarrassment painted on her flustered visage. Sinbad simply smiled, arms folded as his golden eyes regard her happily, "That's quite the power, Kougyoku. Looks like we'll be seeing much more of each other."
Kougyoku backed away from Sinbad, pink cheeked and stuttering, "Y-yes!"
"So lucky. I want to be held by Sinbad-sama." "I know right!" Alibaba overheard the protests of Sinbad's heated fangirls as they all glared at Kougyoku. The pink haired girl took her seat, eyes on the floor.
"Okay, I should probably say this now. If you're going to Djinn Equip, please don't use an attack that'll put us all in danger. Gyokuen will have my head if her school gets damaged." Sinbad jumped offstage, retiring to his seat, "Ja'far, who's next?"
The snowy haired man searched a sheet of paper, calling out, "Miss Morgiana."
"Look Alibaba-kun, it's that cute girl from earlier!" Aladdin remarked as the red head made her way to the stage.
Someone from the audience applauded while shouting obnoxiously, "That's my Morgiana!"
The impassive girl bowed to the crowd, her voice barely above a whisper, "Good morning."
"Hi Morgiana and how are you doing today?" Sinbad began with his usual questioning.
"Alright." The timid girl fidgeted, shifting her weight from one foot to the next.
Sinbad nodded, leaning back in his seat, "Why are you here?"
Scarlet tresses fell before Morgiana's eyes, she swiped them away coolly while shrugging in answer, "I have a goal I want to achieve."
Sinbad rocked his chair back slightly, "Alright then, what do you have for us?"
"May I make a request?" The red head inquired.
The panel glanced at one other while Sinbad hastily responded with, "Sure, what is it?"
"I'd like a sparring partner, if that's okay." Alibaba actually wanted a sparring partner too, when his time will come.
The purple haired man banished his surprise as quickly as it appeared on his smooth face, "No one's ever asked for a partner before but alright. Do you have anyone in mind?"
"Someone who can take a hit." Morgiana stated bluntly.
Sinbad looked across a table of petrified faces, "Any volunteers?"
Except one.
The scarlet haired teacher stood, relief overtaking the remaining faculty at the table, "Masrur, great job. I was going to volunteer you anyway." Sinbad gave his companion a smile, receiving a disinterested sideways glance in return, "Don't overdo it, remember that she's just a teenage girl."
A loud crunching sound echoed through the room, startling everyone inside minus the only teacher standing. Under Morgiana's right foot was a large indent in the caramel floorboards. Sinbad shrunk in his seat, his voice significantly weaker than earlier, "Just…don't overdo it, Masrur."
Masrur jumped onto the stage with a loud thud, golden armour glittering under the stage's lighting. He's barefooted, just as Morgiana is and Alibaba couldn't help but see a resemblance between them. Morgiana stared at the older man who does the same. Masrur's sights never leave the short girl before him as he raised his guard.
"May I begin?" Morgiana asked, rolling her neck from side to side.
"Whenever you're-" Sinbad didn't get to finish his reply.
Morgiana closed the distance in an instant, her left foot digging into Masrur's arm that blocks his face from the savage blow. The small girl spun through the air, attempting another attack with her right foot. Masrur sidestepped fluidly, Morgiana missed and soared across the stage by the forceful push of Masrur's bulky forearm into her torso. Alibaba gasped in shock, much like the other students who watched as the poor girl clattered to the floorboards. Even more surprising was how quickly Morgiana recovered. Landing on her hands at the last second, Morgiana flipped backwards with the momentum and springs into action without skipping a beat. She advanced on Masrur, landing a swift and powerful blow to his left side. Pieces of armour splinter off on impact and the realization that Morgiana isn't pulling any punches dawns on the man. Her next kick was abruptly stopped by Masrur who effortlessly caught Morgiana's leg, tossing her above his head and to the floor where her hands flatten on the stage. She flipped elegantly, tumbling away from her larger opponent. Masrur calmly awaited Morgiana's next attack, arms in the air with no weakness in his solid guard. Intaking deep breaths, Morgiana prepared for another round.
She sprinted like lightning, zigzagging across the space between her and Masrur. Morgiana darted low, swiping her leg in a swift arc that Masrur avoided by jumping in the air. Morgiana had no time to recover as she's flattened, pinned to the stage by the heavier male. She squirmed, struggling to get out of his grasp but unfortunately couldn't.
"Yield." Masrur said emotionlessly to a thrashing Morgiana who scowled menacingly at him. Seconds pass until the girl gave in, ceasing her useless thrashings. Masrur got off, taking her hand he helped Morgiana onto her feet. He delivered a generous pat on her shoulder before Masrur descended the stage.
Morgiana swallowed a deep breath before bowing to the teachers, body still recovering from a lack of oxygen, "Thank you very much."
The auditorium filled with cheers once again, every teacher at the table but Masrur looking quite impressed, "To take on Masrur without flinching, that's amazing." Sharrkan commented, joining in with the rowdy applause.
"I don't get impressed easily but that was very well executed, Miss Morgiana." Ja'far offered a half smile.
"Masrur, anything to say?" Sinbad glanced at the scarlet haired man tracing a finger along his broken armour plate.
Masrur shrugged, his attention trailed on the wide indent, "Class D."
"I agree." Sinbad said, nodding twice, "Thought you'd want her in your class."
Masrur ignored Sinbad who took that as a hint to move on, "Alright. Alibaba Saluja."
Alibaba's heart rate instantly sped up, "You're next, Alibaba-kun!" Aladdin said excitedly.
"Wish me luck." Alibaba swallowed, rising out of his seat.
"Luck!" The blue haired boy declared, fangirling unnaturally, "Go Alibaba-kun!"
That last fight was an actual show stopper, there was no way he could outshine that. Regardless, Alibaba shook off his anxieties and walked over to the stage with his head held high, "Good morning."
"Hello." Sinbad greeted. Sinbad greeted him! In the flesh! This can't be real! "So Alibaba, tell us why you're here."
"I'm here because…because…" Alibaba's mind went blank, "Umm…sorry." Meeting a crowd of eyes was unnerving but one look at Aladdin's grinning face made Alibaba feel a lot more confident, "I'm here because I want to get stronger. There's something that I want to do and that's why I need to train myself to reach that goal."
Sinbad smiled broadly, "Okay. Well, what do you have for us?"
"I'd also like to request a partner, if I can." Alibaba inquired, eyes moving from one teacher to the next.
Sinbad was happy to comply, "Sure. We should do this sparring thing more often. Anyone in particular you're looking at?"
Alibaba honed in on a flash of silver hair, "Sharrkan-san?"
"Wha-me?" Sharrkan slapped a hand to his chest.
"I noticed the sword you're carrying. My knife's not as great but..." Alibaba drew his weapon that gleamed in the light.
Sharrkan grinned at the glint of steel, rising from his chair, "Alright then, you're on!"
Alibaba's elated as Sharrkan comes up to meet him. Both swordsmen faced each other, Alibaba standing in the formation his father taught him all those years ago while the silver haired man was rather lax in composure. With one hand behind his back, Alibaba met the teacher's eyes, "Are you ready?"
"I'll give you the first move." Sharrkan offered politely.
Alibaba lunged forward with zero warning, knife poised for attack. His blade met Sharrkan's larger sword, the stunning sonnet of metal hitting metal touched Alibaba's ears. He sidestepped, aiming for the swordsman's torso with his limited range but was easily blocked by the older man. Their duel went on and on with the same rhythm of Sharrkan blocking Alibaba's every move.
'I need to land a hit!' Alibaba's mind was already running on fumes, trying to discover the best strategy for his tricky opponent.
"Alright, I've had enough." Sharrkan swiftly moved his blade with a fierce uppercut, nearly chopping Alibaba's hand off as the blond slipped and clattered to the floor. Alibaba's knife skidded to a stop at the end of the stage. Sharrkan points his blade at Alibaba who flinched at the metal tip poking his nose, "I like your style kid, seen it somewhere before so your moves were predictable. I guess you'll be stuck with me."
"You?" Alibaba's defeated tone wasn't noticed by the silver haired swordsman who assisted the blond.
"Yeah, isn't that exciting?" Sharrkan draped an arm across Alibaba's shoulders while leading him off the stage. Alibaba plucked his favourite knife off the stage before heading to his seat, sullen like a sour lemon.
"Cheer up, Alibaba-kun!" Aladdin patted Alibaba on the back, "You're so amazing. I can't use a sword but the way you did looked so awesome!"
Alibaba didn't pay attention. The other auditions flew by his head now drowning in a vast sea of utter disappointment.
Class D.
Why!
He wished they'd reconsider and put him in Sinbad's class.
"Alright, guys." Sinbad climbed onto the stage, "Now that we've placed you all into your classes, you'll all follow your respective homeroom teachers to your new classroom where they'll brief you on what's expected of you and what courses you'll take depending on your areas of interest. Now, if there's anyone who's unsatisfied with the class we've placed you in, that can easily change." Alibaba's ear perked up, "Of course, I'm not saying you can jump ship from any of the classes to Class A. Class A is a special class of individuals since magic can't be learned just because you read a book. It's something that only a select few can do. In terms of the students from Class D for example, there's a good chance that most of you may join Class C or B in the near future but only time will tell. So, work hard and I hope we have a successful first year together."
Loud cheers and fits of fangirling exploded from the masses at the end of Sinbad's speech.
"I'll see you later, Alibaba-kun." Aladdin waved goodbye as all of Class A's students exited the hall with Yamraiha-san leading them out.
Everyone leaves in order of class until Sharrkan's class remained, "Since I'm such a nice, amazing, wonderful guy, I won't be giving any assignments on your first day. I'll just have all of you pick your seats, then if you have any questions or comments, you can voice them out. You'll all fill out a form and then you can leave." The classroom they were led to was large and bright with a number of seats to accommodate all his new classmates. Sharrkan sat on top of his desk in front of them while he waited for everyone to claim a seat. Alibaba remembered most of the acts of his new classmates but didn't know any of them on a personal level. He just stole a window seat, the one in the middle of the final column. Glancing out the window, he took in a pretty decent view of the school's grand playing field. Tall trees lined the school's perimeter, the sun continually showering their town with both blissful and blistering beams of light.
"Okay, I'm sure you all know each other's names…I hope, so I won't ask you all to introduce yourselves again." Sharrkan began after everyone had settled into their new seats, "So, any questions?"
A few people raised their hands and Sharrkan picked a random person to the front, "Sharrkan-san–" "Just Sharrkan's fine."
"Okay, Sharrkan. What are the courses like for our class?" The female brunette asked, "I noticed we were placed based on our abilities, so what do non-magician and non-vessel users do at Kou High exactly?"
"Well, Class A is for magicians so obviously none of the other classes will be doing the exact same things as they do, but Classes B to D do similar courses. The only difference is that there are certain classes that you guys won't have to take that the others – let's say Class B – would have to. If you're interested in swordplay like my little friend Alibaba over there," Sharrkan glanced at Alibaba who wasn't expecting to be put on the spot like that, "then we have all sorts of training in store. I won't be your only teacher though. This is just our homeroom so pretty soon some of you will only see each other before first period begins. There are classes suited for everyone's needs and we'll be going through those classes today. I'll give each of you the form that'll be processed over the next few days so by the end of the week you'll all have a schedule suited just for you."
Another classmate was chosen, "How do we get grades and what's a pass?"
"Grades are based on your assessments over the course of each semester. There will be group work, homework, all sorts of work. A pass is…well, it depends on the course. If you're in Class D then it's easier to get a pass. You just have to get high grades in your assignments and show some form of improvement, that's all there is to it."
"What about the other classes?"
"Well, Sinbad's no pushover when it comes to his class. He may seem kind but the guy's pretty hard to please, unless you're a woman, but anyway. There's a guy who's been in Sinbad's class for a few years, he was supposed to graduate by now but he's still here."
"Really?"
"Yeah." Sharrkan rubbed his chin with a hand, "He has a problem when it comes to his Djinn equip or something, so he always fails. He's gotten better over the years, just…not good enough to pass."
'So only Metal Vessel users are a part of Class B.' Now he understood. Alibaba couldn't help but feel stupid for not realizing it earlier, 'Guess I was meant to be in this class. Sharrkan-san's cool so it won't be so bad.'
Sharrkan picked another student, "Umm, I'd like you to explain how I'd be able to get into another class, not that I don't like this class but Sinbad said something about advancing to one of the other classes so…."
"Well, let's see. How many of you wished that you were in another class?" Almost half of the class raised their hands and Sharrkan's face deflated, "I'm not hurt at all guys." Alibaba lowered his hand while Sharrkan continued, "It's much easier to advance to Class C than Class B. I'm sure all of you know the way people acquire Metal Vessels. Depending on the person's circumstance, they can gain the power of a Djinn which is housed in a metal artifact that means a lot to the holder. Some people like Sin are so great that they've got more than one, but there are only a select few so chances are you may never get one in your lifetime. In the case of a household vessel, well I can speak for myself." Sharrkan unsheathed his longsword, "I'm a household vessel under Sin, but that doesn't mean I'm not as great as he is. Household vessels are also made of a metal that's important to the holder and these people form a deep or important connection to the one who is the head of their household. So, let's say if one of you decides to hook up with someone in Class B then I'm sure you'll be a part of Class C in no time." Sharrkan smirked slyly but he quickly returned to his neutral expression, "I'm just kidding, don't take that seriously. I'm serious, not promoting hook ups for the sake of getting supernatural powers."
'There were some pretty cute girls who got into Class B.' Alibaba pushed those shameless thoughts away.
"Anything else?" Sharrkan's eyes swept the room, "Great. Now I'm passing these forms around. Make sure you sign your name and fill in all spaces. Once you've completed it, you can leave."
Aladdin
"Aladdin."
The blue haired magician looked up from his desk to see Yamraiha standing over him.
"Yes?" His eyes sparkled instantly, a wide grin breaking out on his face.
"Umm, are you done?" The blue haired woman sat beside him.
Aladdin shook his head, all traces of his smile nonexistent, "No."
He returned to the page on his desk, scratching his head in confusion, "Well, your form's the last one. I need to send these off to the principal. Are you having difficulty with choosing your courses?"
Aladdin voiced out his plight, "Well, I really want to do all of these Miss Yamraiha but I can only choose a handful of them."
"Oh, that's just a suggestion Aladdin. You can choose as many courses as you'd like, as long as you think you can manage the workload. How about this, you choose the ones you want to do during the normal school hours and then you can do the rest after school when I'm available." Yamraiha smiled encouragingly.
Aladdin grinned back, "I'd love that, thank you!"
She giggled cutely, "No problem."
As they both fill the form together, Aladdin came to the bitter realization that an unspeakable evil has descended on mankind, an evil so great it's unimaginable…
He's hungry!
Oh, the horror! The humanity! Woe is he!
Running on empty had Aladdin's thoughts all over the place. Yamraiha was pointing out some recommended courses to him but Aladdin's mind was lightyears away from his education, 'Miss Yam…reminds me of watermelons!'
The door flew open in tandem with Yamraiha's screams, "Yam, what's going on?!"
Aladdin recognized the male teacher from the auditorium. Sharrkan rushed over to her with a load of papers in hand, brushing her arm as she hugged herself, kneeling on the floor.
"Don't touch me!" She slapped him across the face, Sharrkan stumbled back and into a desk before crashing to the floor. Turning her attention to Aladdin, the boy rubbed his aching back, sore from being tossed into a wall for the second time in under two hours. Yamraiha screeched like a wild animal, "You-!"
"Excuse me, Yamraiha-sensei…" A head poked into the classroom, "Umm, am I disturbing something?"
"Hakuei!" Yamraiha rejoiced when the obsidian haired beauty walked in.
"Is there a problem?" Hakuei glanced at an unconscious Sharrkan, sprinkled in paperwork, followed by a brief stare at the little boy arched over like an old man. She looked once again at the fallen swordsman, "Is…Sharrkan-sensei alright?"
"Who cares about him!" Yamraiha stood at her full height, yanking Aladdin off the floor by his collar, "Could you please do me a favor and take this…this disrespectful child to the Dean's office?"
Hakuei is dubious but nodded slowly to the frazzled teacher, "Sure, but I need to speak with you once I return."
"Sure. I'll just be cleaning up in here." Yamraiha glared down at Sharrkan before sighing miserably.
Aladdin is led out the door by Hakuei who briskly walked down the hall. She peered over her shoulder to see if he was behind her. Aladdin caught up to the older lady, "Miss Hakuei?"
"What is it?" She asked gently, a small smile on her lips.
"You were amazing earlier!" Aladdin recalled her beautiful Djinn equip, "Your powers are unbelievable!"
Hakuei suppressed a giggle with her right hand, "And what about you, Mr. Magician?" She flashed Aladdin the kindest of smiles, "You're very talented yourself. Say, why did Yamraiha-sensei send you to the Dean?"
"Well, Miss Yam was really close to me and I–"
Aladdin was quickly cut off by Hakuei, "Okay stop. I think I know what you're going to say. How about I give you some advice instead of disturbing Ja'far-sensei." They paused in the hall, Hakuei met Aladdin's short height. Her adorable smile took a turn for the worst, Aladdin swallowed under the intense pressure of that sinister smirk, "Don't do it again. You understand?"
"Yes ma'am!" Aladdin cringed, his voice barely audible.
Did Aladdin just imagine it? Hakuei's lovely smile played on her face as she brushed the top of his head with a soothing hand.
Edited: August 4th, 2018