The sigils beneath Anay dimmed, retreating into the obsidian floor as his consciousness eased back into the physical world.
A chime echoed through the dorm walls.
"All S-Class applicants, report to the Astral Plaza. The Island Trial begins now."
Anay rose without hesitation. With a calm breath and steady steps, he left the chamber and emerged into the wide, polished halls of the academy.
Outside, the grand plaza buzzed with energy. The central spire of Astral Academy loomed overhead, casting long shadows over the gathered students. A total of ninety-two figures—forty-six from S-Class Wing A and forty-six from Wing B—stood in organized rows before a wide circular dais.
Most stood in silence, eyes filled with anticipation. Others exchanged quiet words or last-minute checks on their gear. Elemental pressure filled the air—traces of fire, wind, ice, earth, and more creating a tense yet vibrant atmosphere.
Anay approached quietly from the rear, his presence unnoticed at first. But a shift in the air caught a few eyes.
Veer, casually stretching near the front, glanced back. His expression flickered into a grin.
"Well, look who finally decided to show up," he said, waving lightly.
Saki turned as well, standing near Veer. Her sharp eyes briefly scanned Anay before she gave a soft nod.
"You took your time," she said with an almost teasing tone. "Ready for the trial?"
Anay stepped forward, joining them with a calm smile. "More than ready."
"Let's make this clear," Veer added, brushing his coat aside with casual flair. "I don't care how tough the monsters are. I'm aiming for the top score."
Saki tilted her head. "Confidence is good. But overconfidence gets you eliminated."
"Oh?" Veer smirked. "We'll see about that."
Anay chuckled lightly. "Let's just all make it back in one piece."
Their brief exchange was cut short as a low hum began to resonate from the center of the dais. Lights circled outward in a glowing ring, and a towering arch of pure spiritual energy shimmered into existence. The portal was enormous—its core a swirling field of blue, silver, and violet light.
All voices hushed.
An instructor in long robes stepped forward, holding a polished case. With a flick of his wrist, ninety-two small orbs rose into the air, floating gently toward each participant. Anay caught his with a glance—it pulsed once, then settled into a soft glow.
"This orb will track your individual performance," the instructor announced. "Hunts, teamwork, decisions, and survival time will be recorded. Do not lose it. The top scorers will be revealed upon return."
He paused.
"And remember… this is not a battle against each other. It is a trial against the island itself."
The portal shimmered.
One by one, students began to step forward. Each vanished into the swirling light with a faint hum.
Saki turned to Anay. "See you on the other side."
She stepped through.
Veer cracked his knuckles. "Don't fall behind."
Then he disappeared.
Anay was the last among them. The plaza had fallen silent again, save for the soft energy pulsing from the gate. He stepped forward with purpose, his orb glowing steadily in his palm.
No one knew his true strength.
No one knew his master's name.
And no one knew that a storm—silent, unseen—was about to enter the island.
Without hesitation, Anay walked into the light.
To be continued...