Caelum walked along the academy hall, gliding his hand against the cold stone wall of the hallway. The flickering crystal lights knocking above him creating an enchanting hum and casting a shadow. His heart pounded—from fear, but also from the sheer shock of it all.
This is the academy... from the game.
It was just like he remembered from the early missions from its narrow halls, the strict gothic architecture, the bright glow of mana lamps. Even the smallest grooves and marks. etched into the stone were exact.
But more importantly—he was here. He was Caelum Lorvine now, the unnamed disposable NPC of the game who had to somehow protect the saintess...
He took a deep breath and glanced again at the worn leather handbook in his hand.
He caught his reflection on the stained glass that overlook the courtyard —a young man with raven black hair, gray eyes that seemed empty, and sharp features that gave him an effortlessly noble look. He was handsome in a way that invited both intrigue but also dismissal, blending him into the ordinary background. The uniform fit snugly on his tall, lean frame with elegance. The leather binding bore the golden crest of House Lorvine—a broken sword wrapped in thorns. The writing inside his handbook detailed his schedule Theory exam and Physical exam. At the bottom of the page written in all caps "PROTECT THE SAINTESS"
OH!! Right. Babysitting the future Saintess. Joy.
It was then that he recalled: attendants weren't normally allowed at the academy. Only a noble house's direct sponsorship could bypass the restriction.
I'm here under the name of House Lorvine... that explains it.
Before he could think any further, a soft chime echoed in his ears.
SYSTEM BOOT COMPLETE
Initializing: [Shadow Archive]
Welcome, Caelum Lorvine. Role: Forgotten Extra
Main Objective: Survive against the ##########?????
Failure condition: DEATH
Sub-Objective: Protect Lady Celina.
Failure Condition: Death of Lady Celina will result in system lock and forced narrative collapse.
Synchronization: 6.2%
A translucent blue interface appeared before his eyes, much like the one in the game—only this time, it wasn't a screen. It hovered in the air, responding to his thoughts.
"This is new," Caelum muttered to himself.
He then focused his eye on the floating window, and it shifted in response:
[Caelum Lorvine - Status Window]
Title: Forgotten Extra
Level: 1
Class: Magic swordsman
HP: 120 / 120
MP: 95 / 95
Strength: 13
Agility: 21
Intelligence: 42
Charisma: 10
Luck: 60
Affinity: Lightning and Time
Skills:
[Observer's Insight Lv.1]
Inventory:
Basic Attendant Uniform (Fitted, House Lorvine Crest)
Academy Handbook
3x Mana Restoration Tablets
Basic Armor (Issued through House Lorvine Sponsorship)
System Feature Unlocked:
Use system points to purchase items, gear, and upgrades. Shop availability increases with synchronization.
Points Available: 100
Skill Unlocked: [Observer's Insight Lv.1]
Effect: Allows user to predict and see attack patterns of opponent
Allows user to see hints and context
Cooldown: 10 minutes
Origin: The eye of the god of knowledge and foresight itself. Lost during a divine war this power watches from the gaps in fate itself.
'This will be highly useful' Caelum thought to himself
Suddenly a Footsteps echoed around the corner.
Without thinking, he straightened his posture and slipped the handbook into his coat. Just as he did, a voice rang out.
"Caelum. You're late."
Caelum turned.
There she stood. Lady Celina. Silver-blonde hair cascading like moonlight, blue eyes sharper than the blade at her hiip, and the aura of someone born to rule. Just as flawless—and terrifying—as the game portrayed her to be.
Caelum bowed slightly. "Apologies, my lady. I was... disoriented."
She gave him a brief glance, then sighed. "You're lucky you're new," she said, her tone softer than expected. "Just don't let it happen again. Come—we're expected to be at the courtyard."