The simulation hall stretched endlessly before them, a cavernous space filled with row upon row of gleaming silver VR pods.
Each pod hummed softly with contained mana, their polished surfaces reflecting the harsh artificial lights overhead.
The sheer scale of it made Kyle's breath catch slightly - there had to be thousands of them arranged in perfect military precision.
Kyle blinked rapidly, his eyes struggling to adjust to both the brightness and the overwhelming sight. His fingers twitched at his sides as he mentally calculated the numbers.
Of course, he realized with dawning comprehension. This isn't just for our class. This is for the entire first year.
The math settled uncomfortably in his mind.
1000 students.
500 teams.
All about to be thrown into the same virtual battlefield where only the strongest would emerge victorious.
Beside him, Eleanora stood with her characteristic perfect posture.
