Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Chapter 236: First Mission

Saturday arrived, and the academy was abuzz with anticipation. All first-year students had been instructed to gather at the entrance of the Mission Hall for their first official introduction to the Mission System. The excitement was palpable as students hurried through the corridors, chatting eagerly about the new opportunities awaiting them.

I made my way to the Mission Hall, Noxy perched on my shoulder, observing its surroundings. Aria walked beside me, her expression indifferent as usual.

When we arrived at the entrance, a large group of first-year students had already assembled. Professor Ardent stood at the front, her presence commanding attention. As the last few stragglers joined the group, she began to address us.

"Good morning, everyone," she began, her voice carrying over the excited murmurs. "Today marks the beginning of your practical training as Awakeners. Without further ado, let's go in."

We followed her inside, and the Mission Hall unfolded before us. It was a spacious, functional facility, designed for efficiency rather than style. The walls were lined with magical screens displaying various pieces of information, and the air hummed with the energy of magical technology at work.

"Welcome to the Mission Hall," Professor Ardent said, her voice echoing slightly in the vast room. "This is where you will come to receive and complete missions. The system is simple but effective, ensuring that you can gain hands-on experience while also contributing to the academy and the community."

She pointed to a series of magical screens. "These screens will display available missions, categorized by type and difficulty. You can approach any staff member to ask about specific missions or to get recommendations based on your current level and skills."

A few staff members, wearing the academy's official uniforms and robes, stood nearby, ready to assist the students. They looked approachable and knowledgeable, prepared to guide us through the process.

Professor Ardent continued, "Once you have selected a mission, you will receive a notification on your communication bracelets." She held up her wrist, showing a sleek, magically-enhanced bracelet. "These devices will keep you informed about mission details, updates, and your current points and ranking."

The students murmured in excitement, examining their own bracelets.

Right, the communication bracelets were a marvel of magical technology in this world, created by the Celestial Arcane Academy, capable of projecting holographic interfaces and providing real-time information. Just like smartphones in Eearth but with a holograph screen. Guess the author tried to mix fantasy and technology there.

But, they are really useful that I already got used to them in a day.

Then, Professor Ardent gestured to a large screen on one side of the room. "This is the ranking screen. Here, you can see the current standings of all students based on the points they have earned from missions. It is updated in real-time, so you can track your progress and see how you compare to your peers."

"And your guess is correct, the student in the top ten will receive monthly bonus points as rewards. So make sure to give it your best."

The ranking screen was a major focal point, and I could already see students eyeing it with determination, eager to climb the ranks.

"Now," Professor Ardent said, "let's go through the process step by step. I will demonstrate how to select and accept a mission."

She walked over to one of the magical screens, tapping it lightly. The screen responded instantly, displaying a list of available missions. "First, you approach a staff member and tell them what kind of mission you're interested in."

A nearby staff member stepped forward, smiling. "Good morning, Professor. How can I assist you?"

Professor Ardent turned to the students. "For demonstration purposes, I'll ask for a mission suitable for a first-year student with a focus on healing."

The staff member nodded and gestured to the screen, which displayed several missions related to healing and medical assistance. "Here are some available missions. You can choose one based on your interests and current level."

Professor Ardent selected a mission, and the screen displayed detailed information about the task. "Once you choose a mission, the details will be sent to your bracelet. You will receive updates and notifications as needed."

Her bracelet emitted a soft glow, and a holographic interface appeared above it, showing the mission details. "As you can see, the information is clear and easy to access. You can accept the mission directly from your bracelet."

With a quick tap on the holographic interface, she accepted the mission. "Once accepted, you are responsible for completing the mission as specified. Make sure to follow all instructions and report back here upon completion."

She turned back to the students, her expression serious. "Remember, the Mission System is designed to challenge you and help you grow. Choose your missions wisely, and always strive to do your best. Don't get overconfident and put yourself in danger as well. Your performance will be evaluated, and your points will reflect your dedication and skill."

Professor Ardent gave us a nod, signaling the end of the demonstration.

"Now, it's your turn. You will start from today, right now. I advise you to choose your first mission carefully."

"Anyway, just approach the staff, select a mission you think suits you the best and begin your journey as an Awakener. Good luck."

As soon as she finished her words, the students dispersed, eagerly approaching the staff members to inquire about available missions. I glanced at Aria, who gave me a small smile. "Should we do it together?" I asked her.

"Alright." Aria nodded and the three of us, with Noxy still perched on my shoulder, made our way to one of the staff members, ready to embark on our first mission.

As we approached, the staff member greeted us warmly. "Hello, how can I assist you today?"

"We're looking for a two-man mission suitable for first-year students," I said. "Something challenging but within our capabilities. You can rise the difficult to the Lunar Tier as well."

The staff member nodded and gestured to the magical screen. "Let's see what we have available."

The screen displayed a list of missions, ranging from simple tasks to more complex assignments. After a brief discussion, Aria and I finally settled on a mission.

"We will choose this one." I said as I pressed the screen.

"Um... Are you sure about that, Students? I think it might be a little difficult for you." The staff noticed the mission title and info. She looked concerned but professional.

"Don't worry, we can manage it, right?" I reassured the staff, looking at Aria.

"Right." Aria replied as she accepted the mission.

Now, we were ready to start our first mission.