The once quiet Initiation Hall was now filled with the murmuring of hundreds of first-years, all dressed in the pristine white uniform of Aetherion Academy. Conversations buzzed through the room nobles boasting, commoners glancing around in awe, and secret prodigies remaining silent.
Kael, still slouched in his seat, stirred only when the speakers crackled to life.
A tall man appeared on the elevated stage.
His presence silenced the hall immediately.
Clad in deep blue robes embroidered with arcane runes, the Headmaster of Aetherion, Icarion Duskveil, stood with an unreadable expression.
A legend.
An SSS+ Ranker, rumored to be strong enough to flatten countries alone almost national-class. His aura coiled through the room like invisible fire, pressing down on the students.
But Kael… simply yawned.
He didn't care for the speech about glory, responsibility, or the pride of Aetherion.
He only opened his eyes when the headmaster said:
> "You will now be transported for your first official trial."
And then BAM.
A brilliant flash of white consumed the room.
When Kael blinked again, he stood alone in a boundless white testing chamber. The environment was sterile, echoing with distant hums. A large circular arena, smooth and perfect, spread beneath his feet.
He tilted his head, mildly impressed.
> "To teleport over a hundred people at once without a misfire… So that's the power of an SSS+ Ranker."
Then a voice echoed in his chamber, projected from somewhere beyond sight:
> "Kael Vernier."
Kael's gaze sharpened.
That voice…
> "It's Mr. Locke here. I'll be overseeing your test."
Kael's eyes narrowed slightly.
That name Locke.
An SS-ranked Breaker, one of the strongest beast core users in the military. He'd read about him in the academy archives.
> "We'll be releasing monsters into your space. Draw your weapon and get ready."
Kael sighed softly and placed his hand on the B-rank sword strapped to his side. He pulled it free from its sheath with a hiss of steel.
Vanta was resting for now.
This trial wasn't worth revealing anything more.
He raised the blade and shifted into a stance, his body relaxing as he activated Calm Mind.
> "Let's get this over with."
In the distance, the ground began to rumble.
And something growled from the shadows.