"Late. Again," Yuki whispered with a smirk from the second row, twirling her pen.

Haruto dropped into his seat with a sigh, muttering, “I overslept. Again…”

The sensei at the front — a tall, silver-haired man with stern eyes — turned around and tapped the board. Behind him, the wall lit up with glowing symbols of the Nine Celestial Swords. Each symbol pulsed with its own distinct energy.

"Today," he began, his voice calm yet commanding, "you will learn the true nature of the swords you all desperately want to wield."

The room went silent.

"The Shūketsu swords are not only infused with red energy. Each one resonates with the essence of a celestial body — a planet. And each one possesses powers based on the nature of that planet."

Mercury: "Known for its rocky surface and high speed. Those bonded to this sword can create sharp, rocky structures and boost their movement speed."

Venus: "Venus users can hurl acidic energy, corroding anything it touches. At lower potential, they emit burning mist — but at mastery, their acid can melt defenses instantly."

Earth: "Nature responds to Earth-bonded Akaari. Vines, roots, and stone respond to their commands — defensive yet wild."

Mars: "Mars blades are blood-hunters. They absorb the opponent’s blood during battle, strengthening their wielder. Even at 20% potential, they control iron dust to slash enemies from afar."

Jupiter: The image flickered. A poisonous mist surrounded the sword. "Jupiter’s gas can melt flesh on contact. Wielders can summon moons that crash into enemies, or release poisonous wind to infect the battlefield. They may also generate weak electric shocks."

Saturn: "This sword manipulates gravity. Opponents can be slowed for three seconds, pulled or pushed like puppets. Saturn wielders can even summon spike arenas aimed at their foes."

Uranus: "Defensive and cold. Uranus users create frozen walls, use pressurized water, and cast illusions to confuse their enemies. A perfect blend of defense and misdirection."

Neptune: "They control storms. Lightning, flooding rain, and swirling whirlwinds follow these warriors. Their sword dances with chaos."

Finally, The Sun.

The classroom temperature seemed to rise.

"A Sun sword is rare. It produces solar flares, intense heat waves, and scorching winds. Anyone near it — if wielding a planet sword — gains a 90% power boost. The wielder can also launch celestial orbs infused with elemental power of other planets."

A pause.

"These are not toys. Your sword will reflect your core — your spirit. But only when the time is right."

Haruto stared wide-eyed at the board, heart pounding. He whispered to himself, "Which one… is mine?"The class sat wide-eyed. The sensei continued, “Your assigned mentors will help you master these abilities… if you're strong enough.”

Just then, the bell rang again. A loud announcement echoed through the hall:

> "Next up in the training arena: Haruto vs. Hinaru!"

Haruto's eyes widened. "What?! Him?!"

Hinaru stood silently, then smirked coldly as he walked toward the arena. Haruto followed hesitantly, heart pounding.

In the arena, the atmosphere shifted. Hinaru’s presence was overwhelming. The moment the match began, he dashed forward and slammed Haruto to the ground without hesitation.

Haruto coughed, winded. "Why… are you so strong…?"

Hinaru stood above him, eyes filled with frustration. He wasn’t fighting at full strength — something held him back.

Then he bent down, grabbed Haruto by the collar, and said:

“The day you defeat me… we’ll check our sword colors together. You coward.”

Haruto’s eyes widened in silence. The crowd was hushed. .