There was a short pause before she added, more quietly,
"And things will get rough. Maybe not this week, or next month… but Velcrest doesn't produce average people. You're all here because you're capable of more. So we will push you toward it—whether you like it or not."
The room went quiet. No one laughed this time.
Then she smiled again, lightening the mood.
"So! Orientation Week starts today after classes. Club booths will be open in the central courtyard. You're free to visit as many as you want, you can even join as many clubs you want but remember if your academic performance dropped, that's all onto you."
She straightened and glanced around the room one last time.
"If you're not sure where you belong, that's okay. Talk to people. Watch the demonstrations. Think about where you want to grow—not just what looks cool. A strong club match can shape your entire trajectory at Velcrest."
Then her gaze briefly flicked toward me. It was only for a second—but I felt it.
