Chapter 759 - New rankings
The following morning, the students of HA25 sat quietly in their classroom, the usual hum of pre-class chatter subdued by an air of anticipation. The faint click of fingers on academy tablets and the occasional murmur of speculation filled the room. Everyone knew why they were tense—today, the official rankings would finally be announced.
The sound of sharp, deliberate footsteps echoed down the hall. As the door swung open, Professor Eleanor entered, her presence immediately silencing the room. Her sharp eyes swept across the class, taking in their expectant faces.
"Good morning," Eleanor began, her voice crisp and unwavering as she placed her papers on the podium. She paused briefly, her gaze lingering on a few students before she continued. "I know you've all been waiting for the official rankings to be updated."
She straightened, clasping her hands behind her back as she addressed the class. "The rankings were supposed to be finalized before the semester started. However, due to a number of objections and complaints—some of them from overzealous parents—the process was delayed."
A few students exchanged glances, whispering under their breath. Eleanor's sharp gaze cut through the chatter, and silence quickly returned.
"The academy was forced to review every case thoroughly," Eleanor explained, her tone betraying a hint of irritation at the unnecessary complications. "This took longer than expected, but we are now ready to announce the official rankings."
She picked up a small tablet from her podium and glanced at it briefly before addressing the class again. "Let me clarify something before we proceed. The rankings you've seen on your smartwatches were provisional—temporary placeholders based on initial evaluations. Today, those rankings will be finalized."
A ripple of murmurs spread through the classroom, a mix of relief and unease.
Eleanor raised a hand, cutting through the noise. "I understand some of you are concerned about the implications of these rankings, particularly regarding your dorm assignments. Let me assure you, the academy will handle the necessary arrangements."
Her sharp gaze swept over the room, ensuring she had everyone's attention. "For those of you whose rankings have improved significantly, you may be required to move to higher-ranking dormitories. Conversely, those whose rankings have dropped may need to relocate to smaller quarters."
A hand shot up from the middle row. "Professor, what if our belongings don't fit into the smaller dorms?" the student asked hesitantly.
Eleanor's expression didn't soften as she replied. "Then it is your responsibility to discard the things that cannot fit into your assigned dorm room. The academy will not accommodate excess belongings. We provide sufficient space for each rank, but nothing more."
The student blinked, their mouth opening as if to respond, but no words came out. Eleanor continued without pause.
"The academy's personnel will handle the transportation of your belongings while you are in class," she added. "You will find your new dorms ready by the time your lessons are complete."
As Eleanor finished explaining the dorm reassignment process, another hand shot up from the back row. The student's voice carried a tone of unease, their words spilling out in a rush.
"Professor, isn't this an invasion of privacy? We weren't informed about any of this beforehand. There are things in our rooms—private things—that we don't want anyone to see."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the room, with several students nodding in solidarity. The tension was palpable, the students clearly uncomfortable with the idea of academy personnel handling their belongings unsupervised.
Eleanor's sharp gaze swept over the class, silencing the murmurs before they could escalate. She regarded the student who had spoken with a measured expression, her tone calm but firm as she replied.
"That is a fair concern," Eleanor acknowledged. "Privacy is important, and I understand your apprehension. Therefore, after this lesson ends, you will be given time to return to your dorms and pack up any personal or private items before the academy personnel begin the relocation process."
The room seemed to exhale collectively, the students visibly relaxing at her words. However, Eleanor's expression turned slightly pointed as she added, "That said, let me remind you that choosing to pack away specific items may invite suspicion. It is not my place to question what you consider private, but you must be prepared for the impression your actions may create."
The subtle warning hung in the air, a reminder that transparency—or the lack thereof—could carry consequences.
It was evident that the academy was using this as an excuse to conduct a search, albeit most of the students knew that it was just a superficial warning.
At the end of the day, those who wanted to hide would hide.
Satisfied that the matter was addressed, Eleanor straightened and returned her attention to her tablet. "Now, with that clarified, let's move on to the official rankings."
The tension in the room shifted again, this time tinged with anticipation and nerves. Eleanor tapped her tablet, and the classroom screen at the front lit up, displaying a large, scrolling list of names. The ranking numbers glowed beside each name, sharp and definitive.
"The finalized rankings," Eleanor announced, "have been determined based on your performance last semester, both in academics and practical evaluations. This list is final and reflects your standing as of now."
She began reading the names aloud, starting from the lower ranks and working her way up. The room was filled with a mix of reactions as the rankings were revealed—relief, disappointment, and a few muted cheers.
"Rank 2121, Oliver Park."
Eleanor's voice rang clearly as she continued reading the rankings.
"Rank 1555, Liam Wayne."
At the sound of his name, the room immediately stirred. All eyes turned toward a young man sitting stiffly in the back row. Liam Wayne, a student whose pride had recently been tarnished, felt the weight of their stares. He gritted his teeth, his face reddening as whispers began to ripple through the classroom.
"That's the guy who lost to Astron, isn't it?" one student murmured.
"Yeah, he challenged someone ranked last—and still lost," another whispered, barely hiding their amusement.
Liam clenched his fists on his desk, his knuckles turning white. He could feel the disdain in their gazes, the unspoken judgment. His loss to Astron had already been the talk of their class, but now, seeing his rank so publicly announced, the humiliation resurfaced in full force.
Eleanor continued, unfazed by the murmurs.
"Rank 1234, Timothy Grey."
"Rank 1052, Astron Natusalune."
The room collectively gasped. Heads whipped around to Astron, who sat quietly in his usual corner seat. The last-ranked student at the start of the academy—ranked 2450 out of 2450—had now surged forward by nearly 1,400 ranks.
"That's insane," someone whispered, their tone equal parts awe and disbelief.
"How does someone jump that far in one semester?" another asked, their gaze locked on Astron.
It wasn't just the ranking that drew their attention. Astron's transformation—the refined features, his sharp purple eyes, and the aura of quiet confidence—only added to the growing mystique surrounding him. The students couldn't help but stare, their earlier judgments crumbling under the weight of his achievements.
Julia leaned toward Ethan, whispering, "That's one hell of a glow-up. Who even is he anymore?"
Ethan didn't respond immediately, his brow furrowed as he glanced at Astron. There was more to this than met the eye, and Ethan couldn't shake the feeling that whatever had changed in Astron wasn't just physical—or even purely academic.
'Heh…..They are finally noticing him….'
Seeing Astron like that, Irina was satisfied. That guy was finally getting the recognition that he deserved.
He may not care about it, but she cared.
But before the room could fully process Astron's leap in rank, Eleanor continued to read the next names.
"Rank 915…."
"Rank 876…."
.
.
.
"Rank 570…."
.
.
.
Since the Astron's change, there weren't that many jumps in the academy. That is why the students didn't shine too much, even those who had improved.
Well, that was until a new name came up…..
"Rank 215, Ethan Hartley."
The room exploded with whispers. Students turned toward Ethan, their faces a mix of shock and disbelief. The murmurs quickly grew louder, drowning out any other reaction.
"Rank 215?" someone said, their voice incredulous. "No way!"
"Wasn't he ranked 2000-something at the start of last semester?" another exclaimed.
"Yeah, and he jumped to 970 last semester, but this? From 970 to 215 in just one ranking update? What the hell?"
Ethan shifted in his seat, feeling the weight of their stares. Julia, sitting beside him, grinned and gave him a nudge. "Guess you're the new star, Mountain Boy."
He rolled his eyes at her nickname, though he couldn't entirely hide the small smile tugging at his lips. The truth was, even he was surprised at how far he'd come in such a short time.
'This….'
The room erupted into chaos as the announcement of Ethan's rank sank in. A few students couldn't contain their disbelief, and objections flew from multiple corners of the room.
"This is ridiculous!" one student exclaimed, standing abruptly. "How can someone jump from rank 970 to 215 in just one semester? It's not fair!"
"Yeah," another chimed in, their voice laced with suspicion. "Is the academy just playing favorites now? What's the point of rankings if they can change this drastically?"
The murmurs of agreement grew louder, frustration and envy bubbling to the surface. Ethan remained seated, his face calm but his jaw tightening as the accusations mounted.
Eleanor narrowed her eyes, the sharpness of her gaze immediately silencing the commotion. "Enough," she said, her tone cutting through the noise like a blade. The students froze, her commanding presence suffocating any further protests.
"You doubt the fairness of the rankings?" Eleanor's voice was cold, her eyes scanning the room. "Then allow me to show you exactly why Ethan Hartley has earned his rank."
She tapped her tablet, and the screen at the front of the room flickered to life. A video began to play, its projection dominating the classroom. The footage was immediately recognizable to some—the duel between Ethan and Kellan Stormrider, a cadet ranked 256 at the time, against Ethan's then-ranking of 975.
The room fell silent as the scene unfolded. Kellan Stormrider was on the offensive, his strikes fast and precise. But Ethan's movements, though less polished, were deliberate and unyielding. He dodged, countered, and withstood every attack with a resolve that visibly shook his opponent.
Then came the turning point. The projection showed Ethan channeling an immense surge of mana, his figure nearly consumed by its brilliance. A moment later, a massive lightning strike descended from the sky, its sheer size and ferocity dwarfing everything around it. The roar of thunder shook the ground, and the battlefield was consumed in a blinding light.
Gasps filled the room as the screen displayed the aftermath. Kellan Stormrider was sprawled on the ground, his mana shield shattered and his expression one of disbelief. The students watching the footage could feel the weight of the attack, even through the screen.
Eleanor paused the video, the image frozen on the massive strike mid-impact. She turned back to the class, her expression unyielding.
"This attack," she began, her voice steady but heavy with authority, "would obliterate any of you below rank 200. Even cadets ranked higher would struggle to resist it."
Everyone was silent….
Chapter 760 - New rankings (2)
"This attack. It would obliterate any of you below rank 200. Even cadets ranked higher would struggle to resist it."
The room remained heavy with silence as Eleanor's words hung in the air, the paused image of Ethan's devastating lightning strike still displayed on the screen. The students shifted uneasily in their seats, the weight of the demonstration pressing against them.
Though many had raised their voices in complaint moments earlier, the reminder of Ethan's performance in that duel forced them to reconsider. The sheer power and scale of his attack had been almost unreal, and the reality that few among them could withstand such a blow was inescapable.
They nodded inwardly, begrudgingly acknowledging the academy's judgment. Even if it had felt unfair at first, the reasoning behind Ethan's ranking was now clear.
Still, the understanding didn't erase the wariness. Several students cast furtive glances in Ethan's direction, their gazes filled with a mixture of awe and unease. To them, he wasn't just a peer anymore—he was something closer to a monster in their eyes, someone who could leap ranks in ways that seemed almost impossible.
Ethan, sitting quietly in his seat, said nothing. His face remained composed, but the intensity of the stares wasn't lost on him. He felt the shift in the room, the weight of both admiration and fear settling onto his shoulders.
Julia, ever perceptive, leaned closer to him, her voice low but laced with amusement. "Well, Mountain Boy, looks like you've officially ascended to Mount Olympus. How does it feel to be a living legend?"
Ethan rolled his eyes, though a faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "I think you're exaggerating."
"Am I?" Julia smirked, propping her chin on her hand. "I mean, did you see their faces? Half of them look like they're ready to bow down, and the other half looks like they're wondering how to run in the opposite direction."
Lilia, seated near the front, turned slightly in her chair to join in. Her sharp green eyes sparkled with mischief. "She's not wrong, you know. That attack? It was pretty insane. If you keep this up, people might start calling you Zeus instead of Ethan."
Ethan sighed, leaning back slightly in his chair. "Great. That's exactly what I need—another nickname."
Julia's grin widened. "Come on, Zeus. Embrace it. How many people can say they've turned a classroom full of skeptics into believers in under a minute?"
"Not many," Lilia added, her voice light but teasing. "But you better get used to it. With a rank like that, all eyes are going to be on you."
Ethan gave a faint shrug, his expression thoughtful. "Let them look. I'm not here for their approval."
Julia snorted, nudging him with her elbow. "And yet, you can't deny it feels a little good, right? Just a little?"
He didn't answer, his small smile the only indication that her words weren't entirely off the mark.
Eleanor let the silence linger for a moment longer before speaking again. "Now, if there are no further complaints, we will proceed with the remaining rankings."
The room stayed quiet, no one daring to voice another objection. The rest of the rankings continued, but the earlier spotlight on Ethan—and the display of his duel—left an impression that wouldn't fade anytime soon.
Eleanor tapped her tablet, her voice ringing clearly as she continued to announce the rankings. The room's atmosphere remained charged, the weight of each name adding to the tension.
"Rank 82, Carl Braveheart."
Carl gave a small nod, leaning back in his chair. His usual laid-back demeanor didn't change much, though Lucas leaned over and nudged him.
"Moving up, huh?" Lucas said with a grin.
Carl shrugged, his voice calm. "Better than dropping."
Eleanor's voice cut through their brief exchange.
"Rank 54, Lucas Middleton."
Lucas raised an eyebrow, clearly satisfied. "Not bad," he murmured, leaning back in his chair with a pleased expression.
The next name drew more attention.
"Rank 32, Julia Middleton."
Julia's reaction was immediate. She shot upright in her seat, her expression a mix of disbelief and protest. "Wait, what? Rank 32? Are you serious?"
Eleanor looked up from her tablet, her expression impassive. "Is there a problem, Miss Middleton?"
"Yes, there's a problem," Julia replied, throwing her arms up dramatically. "I won against a rank 21 student in a duel. Why am I this low?"
Eleanor's sharp gaze bore into her, silencing the whispers that had started around the room. "You did win that duel," Eleanor conceded, her tone firm, "but you also received a DC grade in one of your finals. That significantly impacted your ranking."
Julia froze, the words hitting her like a lightning strike. Her cheeks flushed as she sank back into her seat, visibly embarrassed. "T-That was one time," she muttered under her breath.
Lilia turned slightly, smirking as she added, "One time that clearly mattered."
"Shut it, Thornheart. I would have beaten you if I have studied." Julia hissed, though her embarrassment only deepened.
Eleanor continued without pause, her tone unwavering.
"Rank 4, Lilia Thornheart."
Lilia straightened in her seat, her green eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Heh."
She looked at Julia whom she was bickering just now.
'What did you say?'
As if her eyes were telling that.
"You!"
Julia was enraged, but she couldn't do anything.
After all, Lilia didn't gloat, though the flicker of a smirk on her lips made it clear she was pleased with her placement.
The room grew quieter as Eleanor moved to the top of the rankings.
"Rank 2, Irina Emberheart."
Irina's reaction was immediate and unreserved. A wide, beaming smile spread across her face as she sat up straighter, her fiery yellow eyes glowing with pride. For her, this wasn't just a rank—it was a victory.
Her rank at 2 meant one thing: she had surpassed Seraphina Frostborne, her long-time rival. That single fact alone filled her with a sense of triumph she couldn't hide.
The class took note of her reaction. Some students cast her admiring glances, while others—especially a group of girls Irina had antagonized the day before—looked at her with complex expressions, their emotions ranging from jealousy to reluctant respect.
One of the girls whispered, her tone bitter, "Figures she'd be this smug."
"Can you blame her?" another replied, though the irritation in her voice was evident.
Irina didn't seem to notice—or care. Her focus remained on Eleanor as the professor reached the final announcement.
"And finally," Eleanor said, her voice calm but carrying weight. "Rank 1, Victor Blackthorn."
The room erupted into whispers, though this announcement wasn't a surprise. Victor was just on another level and he deserved to hold the top spot for a long time, and his dominance remained unshaken. His name alone carried an air of inevitability.
Irina's smile didn't falter, but her eyes narrowed slightly, a spark of determination flashing in their depths. She wasn't disappointed—far from it. For now, being second was enough. But one day, she intended to claim that top spot.
Eleanor set her tablet down, her gaze sweeping the room. "The rankings are final. Let them motivate you, push you, and serve as a reminder that improvement is always possible. Class dismissed."
As the students rose, the room buzzed with energy, some celebrating, others plotting how to climb higher. Irina, Lilia, and Julia exchanged glances, each carrying their own thoughts about what the rankings meant for their future. Ethan remained quiet, still feeling the weight of the spotlight on him.
For now, the rankings have been decided. But the battles to prove and maintain them were only just beginning.
*******
After the rankings were announced and the buzz of the classroom dissipated, I made my way toward my new dormitory. My ranking jump from 1750 to 1051 hadn't gone unnoticed by the academy's system, and with it came an upgrade in living arrangements. The shift wasn't monumental—this wasn't the top 100—but it was enough to mark a tangible difference in my surroundings.
The new dorm was closer to the campus, its architecture more refined and modern compared to the basic facilities I had previously. As I entered the building, the air was fresher, the lighting warmer, and the faint hum of mana-infused amenities spoke of a step up in resources allocated to its residents.
I approached my room, tapping my student ID against the door's mana-locked panel. With a soft click, the door swung open, revealing the space beyond.
The difference was like this.
The room was larger, with more open space and better furnishings. A spacious desk sat by the window, overlooking the campus grounds. The bed, while still simple, was larger and looked much more comfortable than the narrow one in my old dorm. A small kitchenette occupied one corner, and the bathroom was enclosed rather than shared with the floor. It wasn't luxurious, but it was a marked improvement.
'Not bad,' I thought as I stepped inside, placing my belongings on the desk.
The walls were a neutral shade, but subtle enchantments allowed for customization. The closet had a small enchantment that regulated the temperature for armor and uniforms, ensuring everything stayed pristine.
This one was already there before so it was not that much of a change.
I moved toward the window, gazing out at the sprawling campus below. The dorm's proximity to the main facilities meant shorter walks to classes and training halls—a convenience that saved time and energy, though that would be for the people who are lazy.
'It is not that important. Just for showing off.'
Anyway, that was it.
It wasn't until students breached the top 100 that the differences became truly significant, and even if they become significant, they also come with a requirement of fame.
The top-tier dormitories were practically miniature sanctuaries, boasting personal training rooms, mana-replenishing pools, and other luxuries that could propel a student's progress. For the top 10, the benefits were even more pronounced, tailored specifically to nurture elite talent.
RING!
Just then I had gotten a notification form my smartwatch.
-Prepare for the field training.
It was apparent that the academy was about to start with another training.
'Well, that is exactly what you would expect anyway.'
Chapter 761 - New semester, same training
As the academy's announcement spread, the cadets gathered at the designated training ground. The buzz of chatter filled the air as they approached the newly constructed area behind the academy. Rising before them was a sprawling artificial mountain, its rugged terrain blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. Jagged cliffs, winding paths, and narrow ridges painted a picture of challenge and danger.
Professor Eleanor stood at the base of the mountain, her sharp gaze surveying the crowd of cadets. She was accompanied by a few instructors, each holding clipboards and mana-infused communication devices.
"Attention, cadets!" Eleanor's voice carried over the murmurs, silencing the crowd. "Welcome to the Obsidian Ridge Training Zone. This facility has been newly constructed to enhance your physical, tactical, and mental fortitude. Today's focus will be on agility, endurance, and adaptability."
She gestured to the mountain, her expression unwavering. "The terrain is designed to test your parkour skills and situational awareness. Hidden within the course are traps, obstacles, and mana-infused challenges. These are modeled after real-world scenarios you may face in hostile environments. Your goal is simple: navigate the course, avoid or overcome the traps, and reach the summit."
The cadets exchanged nervous glances, their excitement tempered by the weight of Eleanor's words.
"There are three checkpoints along the way," Eleanor continued. "At each checkpoint, you will find instructors who will evaluate your progress and assign penalties for failures. Reaching the summit is not enough; your performance at each stage will determine your final score."
She stepped aside, allowing the cadets to get a closer look at the starting point—a steep incline littered with uneven platforms and narrow footholds. The terrain glimmered faintly, hinting at hidden enchantments.
"Teams of four will be assigned to encourage collaboration. However, be warned: the traps are dynamic. What one team encounters may differ from what another faces. Adaptation is key."
Eleanor tapped her tablet, and the names of the teams appeared on the large display board behind her.
"Your team assignments have been randomized. Please locate your group and prepare to begin."
The cadets quickly gathered around the display board, scanning for their names and teams. The buzz of chatter grew louder as everyone took note of their teammates.
Ethan's name appeared alongside Lilia Thornheart, Ren Farrow, and a lesser-known cadet, Dain Trellis. Ethan glanced toward Lilia, who stood nearby with her arms crossed, her sharp green eyes scanning the display board.
"Looks like it's you and me," she said, her voice edged with a mix of amusement and challenge. "Let's hope these two can keep up."
Ethan turned to see Ren, the nervous but agile cadet from earlier, and Dain, a reserved and quiet student known more for his precision in ranged combat than anything else. Both approached hesitantly, clearly aware of the pressure of teaming up with two of the academy's fastest risers.
"Let's not waste time," Ethan said, his tone calm and focused. "We'll figure out how to work together on the course."
Lilia raised an eyebrow. "Straight to business? You're no fun, Mountain Boy."
Meanwhile, Julia's voice echoed nearby, tinged with irritation. "Astron? Really? This is who I get stuck with?"
Astron, standing a few steps away, raised an eyebrow but said nothing, his sharp purple eyes flicking over her.
Julia leaned back slightly, a sly grin spreading across her face as she watched Astron's serious expression. "Oh, come on, don't look at me like that. You really can't take a joke, can you?"
Astron didn't respond immediately, his sharp gaze remaining steady. After a moment, he raised an eyebrow. "If you're done joking, we should focus on the task."
Julia laughed, her voice carrying a light, teasing lilt. "Relax, Mr. Serious. I'm just messing with you. You're too easy."
Astron's expression didn't change, but the faintest hint of exasperation flickered in his eyes. Julia noticed and laughed even harder. "See? That's exactly what I'm talking about. You're fun to mess with."
The other two teammates, Simon and Elise, watched the exchange silently. Simon, a muscular cadet known for his brute strength, leaned slightly toward Elise, whispering, "Is she really teasing him? Isn't he supposed to be the rising star?"
Elise, a petite girl with sharp features and a reputation for being observant, gave a small shrug. "Apparently. Let's just see how this plays out."
Julia turned to the group, her demeanor shifting slightly as she clapped her hands together. "Alright, team. I know what you're all thinking. I'm the highest rank here, so obviously, I should be the leader, right?"
Simon nodded hesitantly, and Elise looked mildly curious.
"Well, surprise, surprise," Julia continued, her grin widening. "I'm not doing it. Leadership is way too much work. So, Astron, the floor is yours. You're the leader."
The declaration caught everyone off guard. Simon blinked in confusion, his eyes darting between Julia and Astron. "Wait, what? You're leaving it to him?"
Elise raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything, her sharp gaze now fixed on Astron.
Astron, meanwhile, remained unfazed. He crossed his arms, his voice calm and measured. "Are you sure? You outrank me."
Julia waved a hand dismissively. "Ranks don't mean much out here. You've got the brains and the skills to back it up. Plus, I'm curious to see what you can do."
Astron's calm gaze swept across the group as he asked, "Is that so? Do any of you have any complaints?"
Simon exchanged a glance with Elise before shrugging. "Nah, no complaints here. It's just outdoor training, right? Worst case, we stumble a bit, but it's not the end of the world."
Elise crossed her arms, her sharp eyes assessing Astron. She tilted her head slightly before responding, "No complaints. I'm curious to see what you can do, too."
Simon nodded in agreement, his expression softening into a faint smirk. "Yeah, who knows? Maybe you'll surprise us."
'I'm really curious,' Elise thought, her gaze lingering on Astron for a moment longer. Despite his calm demeanor, there was an air about him—a quiet confidence that hinted at something more.
Julia grinned, stepping back and gesturing toward Astron with mock grandiosity. "Well, there you have it, fearless leader. The floor is yours. Lead us to glory, or at least to the next checkpoint."
Astron didn't waste time on further discussion. He turned toward the starting point, his tone firm but even. "Alright. The goal is to make it through efficiently. We'll prioritize teamwork and adaptability. Stay sharp and call out anything unusual."
The others nodded, falling into line as they approached the first section of the course—a steep incline covered in loose rocks and narrow footholds. The faint shimmer of mana in the air hinted at hidden traps or enchantments.
Astron crouched slightly, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the terrain. "The rocks are unstable. Step lightly, and use the footholds on the left side. Elise, keep an eye out for traps. Simon, be ready to stabilize the others if the footing gives out."
"Got it," Simon said, rolling his shoulders as he readied himself.
Elise moved to the left, her sharp gaze scanning the ground. "I see faint runes etched into some of the rocks. Avoid the ones with a slight glow—they'll trigger something."
"Understood," Astron replied, his tone clipped as he began to lead the way. His movements were precise and deliberate, each step testing the stability of the ground before committing. The others followed, mimicking his careful approach.
Halfway up the incline, a sudden pulse of mana shot through the air. One of the rocks beneath Simon's foot began to glow brightly, a low hum building as the enchantment activated.
"Trap!" Elise called out, her voice sharp.
Without missing a beat, Astron reacted. "Simon, shift your weight to the right. Julia, give him a hand."
Julia moved quickly, grabbing Simon's arm and steadying him as he adjusted his footing. The glowing rock dimmed, the trap deactivating as the group continued upward.
"Not bad," Julia remarked, a trace of admiration in her voice. "You're good at this."
Astron didn't respond, his focus remaining on the path ahead. As they reached the top of the incline, he paused, scanning the next section—a series of swinging platforms suspended over a shallow ravine.
'Interesting.'
It was time for his team members to participate.
*******
From the perspective of a struggling cadet, the course was a chaotic symphony of shouts, curses, and frustrated grunts. Most teams were floundering, unable to find a rhythm amidst the traps, unstable terrain, and relentless illusions. Every few steps brought a new obstacle—hidden pressure plates, mana-triggered pitfalls, and even phantom creatures designed to terrify and confuse.
One cadet, Liam Wayne, sat on a precarious ledge, catching his breath. His team was stuck, their progress slow and disjointed. The mana traps had taken them by surprise, and the lack of coordination among his teammates made each obstacle harder to overcome.
He glanced up at the sound of faint voices in the distance and caught sight of another team. To his surprise, this group wasn't floundering—they were moving with purpose.
It was Ethan Hartley and Lilia Thornheart's team.
Ethan was at the front, his sharp eyes scanning the terrain ahead. His movements were deliberate but fluid, as if he could sense the traps before they activated. Behind him, Lilia followed, her hands occasionally glowing as she used her mana to disable or manipulate the traps they encountered. Together, they set a brisk pace, their teammates keeping up without complaint.
Liam watched in awe as Ethan stopped abruptly, raising a hand to signal his team. "Hold up. There's a pressure plate ahead. Lilia, can you handle it?"
Lilia stepped forward, her green eyes narrowing as she studied the faint glimmer of runes on the ground. With a graceful motion, she manipulated the mana in the trap, causing the runes to dim. "It's safe now."
Ethan nodded and motioned for the team to proceed. Their movements were efficient, their teamwork seamless.
"How are they moving so fast?" one of Liam's teammates muttered, their voice tinged with disbelief.
Liam didn't answer, his focus still on the other team. There was something almost intimidating about their coordination, as if they'd been working together for years instead of a single day.
A flicker of light in the distance caught his attention next. Another group was approaching from a different direction, their movements equally impressive but for different reasons.
It was Irina's team.
Irina led the group, her fiery yellow eyes glowing with mana as she cast controlled bursts of fire to clear the path ahead. Her precision was unmatched—every spell was calculated, leaving no room for error. Beside her, Sylvie used her special [Authority] to manipulate the terrain itself, creating temporary footholds or reshaping obstacles to aid their progress. The two cadets complemented each other perfectly, their synergy driving their team forward with remarkable speed.
Liam could only watch as the two groups closed in on each other, their paths intersecting near a rocky incline that led to the next section of the course. Ethan's team arrived first, pausing briefly to assess the climb. Moments later, Irina's group emerged, their presence commanding attention.
The air seemed to hum with tension as the two groups noticed each other. Irina's fiery presence contrasted sharply with Ethan's calm determination.
One of Irina's team members offered a cheerful wave, breaking the silence. "Hey! Looks like we're not the only ones making progress."
Ethan gave a small nod, his expression unreadable. "You're doing well."
Irina smirked, her gaze flicking between Ethan and Lilia. "So are you. I didn't expect to run into you here."
Lilia crossed her arms, her sharp green eyes locking onto Irina. "It's a race, not a social gathering. If you're done chatting, we've got a summit to reach."
"Well, we're headed the same way. Let's not slow each other down."
RING!
Just then their smartwatches rang.
"First place is achieved."
Apparently, someone had already finished the parkour.
Chapter 762 - New semester, same training (2)
As Astron surveyed the swinging platforms, he turned to the group. "We're not just going to brute-force this. Everyone plays a part. Elise, you're the quickest and sharpest here. Find the rhythm of the platforms and lead us across."
Elise blinked in surprise at the directive but nodded. "Got it."
Astron's gaze shifted to Simon. "Your strength will come in handy if anyone slips. Be ready to catch or stabilize anyone who needs it."
"On it," Simon replied, rolling his shoulders again.
"Julia," Astron said, meeting her gaze, "watch our backs. These platforms are likely enchanted. Look for signs of something unusual—a change in the rhythm, mana surges, anything."
Julia raised an eyebrow but smirked. "Understood, Captain Serious."
Astron stepped back, gesturing for Elise to move first. "You lead. We'll follow your pace."
Elise crouched slightly, her sharp eyes locked on the swinging platforms. She waited, watching the rhythm of their movements, before leaping onto the first one with practiced agility. The platform wobbled slightly under her weight, but she maintained her balance and moved to the second platform with a graceful hop.
"Come on," she called back, her voice steady. "One at a time."
Simon went next, his heavier frame causing the platforms to sway more noticeably. Halfway across, the faint hum of mana pulsed through the air.
"Something's off," Julia said, her eyes narrowing as she spotted faint ripples in the mana. "The platforms are moving faster."
Astron frowned. "Elise, hold up! Simon, brace yourself!"
As if on cue, a ghostly figure emerged from the shadows beneath the platforms—a translucent creature with clawed hands and glowing eyes. It darted upward, aiming for Simon's legs.
"Ghostymonster!" Elise shouted.
Simon cursed, swinging his arm in a wide arc to knock the creature away, but his footing slipped. He wobbled dangerously on the platform, the ghostly figure lunging again.
"Julia!" Astron called.
"I see it!" Julia reacted quickly, drawing a dagger from her belt and throwing it with precision. The blade sliced through the ghostly figure, causing it to dissipate with an eerie wail. Simon steadied himself, muttering a quick "Thanks" as he moved to the next platform.
Astron followed, his movements deliberate. As he landed on the third platform, a sharp whistle filled the air. His instincts screamed danger, and he ducked just in time to avoid a dart flying past his head. It embedded itself into the platform behind him, a faint green mist hissing from the tip.
"Poison darts!" Astron called out. "Julia, cover us!"
Julia moved quickly, her eyes scanning the shadows for the source of the attack. Another dart shot out, and she deflected it with a quick flick of her wrist, sending the projectile harmlessly into the ravine below.
"Keep moving!" she shouted. "I'll handle these!"
The team advanced with renewed urgency, Astron pausing briefly to steady Simon as he made the final leap. They regrouped on the far side of the ravine, breathing heavily but unscathed.
"Nice work," Astron said, his tone calm but firm. "We handled that well."
Simon smirked, wiping sweat from his brow. "I've gotta say, that was... something."
Elise grinned, catching her breath. "You're pretty good at this whole teamwork thing, fearless leader."
Before they could continue, the path ahead shimmered, and the air around them grew distorted. The rocky trail seemed to bend and twist unnaturally.
"An illusion formation," Astron muttered, his purple eyes narrowing. "Stay close. It's designed to disorient us."
Elise squinted, trying to focus. "How do we get through it?"
Astron scanned the area, his gaze sharp. "There's usually a pattern—something that stands out. Julia, use your instincts to find the real path. Simon, stay ready in case this thing throws something physical at us."
Julia stepped forward, her eyes darting around the distorted landscape. "Alright, let's see..."
She moved cautiously, her sharp instincts guiding her as the terrain shifted and shimmered. At one point, she nearly stepped onto what appeared to be solid ground, but the faint glint of mana stopped her.
"That's a trap," she said, motioning for the group to avoid it.
They followed her lead, the path ahead slowly unraveling as they moved deeper into the formation. Halfway through, a low growl echoed around them, and spectral wolves materialized from the shadows.
"Great, more ghosty things," Simon muttered, cracking his knuckles.
Astron stepped forward, his voice calm but commanding. "Stay together. Elise, focus on the path. Julia, Simon, and I will handle the wolves."
The team worked in tandem, Astron's blade slicing through the spectral creatures with precision while Simon used his brute strength to shield the others. Julia darted between them, her daggers flashing as she kept the wolves at bay.
"Found the exit!" Elise called, her voice urgent. "This way!"
The team regrouped and followed her, the spectral wolves fading as they crossed the boundary of the illusion formation. They emerged onto solid ground, their breaths heavy but their spirits high.
Astron turned to the group, his gaze steady. "Good work."
"Yeah...We made it through because we relied on each other."
Julia grinned, her earlier teasing replaced by genuine respect. "Not bad, Captain Serious. Not bad at all."
Simon nodded, his usual bravado tempered by admiration. "You've got my vote, Astron. Let's see how far you can take us."
Elise gave a small smile, her sharp eyes glinting with curiosity. "Yeah. I'm still curious about you, but I'll admit—you've got skills."
Astron didn't respond immediately, his focus already shifting to the next section of the course. "Let's keep moving. The summit's not far."
As the team caught their breath and prepared to move on, a sharp chime echoed from their smartwatches. Each member instinctively glanced down at their screens. A notification blinked on the display:
[Alert: First Place Achieved]
Time to Summit: 1 hour, 12 minutes.
Julia blinked in surprise before letting out an incredulous laugh. "Wait, someone already finished? Are you kidding me?"
Simon frowned, his brows furrowing. "How's that even possible? We've been moving pretty fast, haven't we?"
Elise tilted her head, her sharp eyes scanning the notification as if it might offer an explanation. "Either we're slower than we thought, or someone is ridiculously good at this."
Astron, standing slightly apart, didn't react visibly. But inwardly, he nodded to himself. 'Most likely Victor.'
Victor Blackthorn, the reigning number one, was in a league of his own. His skillset wasn't just impressive—it was borderline fraudulent. With his ability to bypass conventional obstacles and his unparalleled mana manipulation, it wasn't surprising that he'd claimed the top spot.
Still, Astron said nothing, his focus shifting back to the path ahead. He didn't need to vocalize his thoughts. The team would see the results soon enough.
Julia's voice broke the brief silence. "Alright, Captain Serious, what's the plan? Are we gunning for second, or do we just enjoy the scenery now?"
Astron's gaze studied Julia for a little while, as if to say, 'Isn't it obvious'?
"Thought so."
Julia smirked, her tone teasing. "Ever the pragmatist."
Simon adjusted his gloves, shaking off the lingering tension from the illusion formation. "If Victor's already at the top, we might as well focus on making it there without losing anyone."
Elise nodded, her sharp eyes darting ahead. "There's another incline up ahead, but it looks steeper than the last. Let's move."
*******
Irina and her team advanced through the course with calculated precision. The last clearing before the final incline was in sight, and their pace quickened as the summit loomed closer. The rocky path beneath them gave way to a plateau, where the terrain opened wide. As they emerged, Irina's fiery yellow eyes locked onto a group moving just ahead.
It was Julia's team.
Irina's gaze swept over the group, her competitive instincts kicking in instantly. Her sharp focus lingered briefly on Julia, but her attention quickly shifted to someone else—Astron. He moved with quiet authority, directing his team through the rugged path with calm efficiency.
'Heh.' A spark of challenge flared in Irina's chest. Her lips curled into a smirk, and her posture straightened as her pace picked up slightly.
"Let's move faster," she said, her tone brimming with determination.
Sylvie, following close behind, glanced at her in confusion. "Irina, what's going on?"
Irina tilted her head toward Julia's group, her smirk growing wider. "Them."
Sylvie's gaze shifted toward the group, her cheerful demeanor fading slightly as her eyes took on a faint, unnatural glow. For a brief moment, her expression was unreadable, almost instinctual. "Oh… I see."
Irina raised an eyebrow at Sylvie's sudden change but didn't question it. Instead, she motioned for the team to adjust their formation. "Stay sharp. We can catch up, but don't get reckless."
"Got it! Let's show them what we've got."
Behind them, their two teammates exchanged glances, sensing the subtle shift in the team's atmosphere. Irina's competitive energy was infectious, and Sylvie's unusual reaction added an edge of intrigue.
As Julia's team advanced, seemingly unaware of Irina's group closing in, Astron paused briefly to reassess the path ahead. He turned slightly, his sharp purple eyes flicking back over his shoulder. For a fleeting moment, his gaze met Irina's.
The exchange was brief, but it was enough to ignite Irina's resolve further. She raised her chin, her smirk unwavering as she pushed forward. "Let's go. We're not losing to them."
"This just got interesting."
Both teams moved steadily toward the summit, the tension between them mounting with each step. It was no longer just about finishing the course—it was a race, a battle of will and skill.
At least Irina really thought so.
The summit drew closer with each passing second, the air thinning as both teams pushed themselves to their limits. Irina's team maintained a steady, calculated pace, her fiery presence at the forefront driving them onward. Sylvie's [Authority] manipulated the terrain with precision, smoothing jagged rocks into stepping stones and creating footholds where none existed. Irina's spells burned away obstructions with surgical accuracy, leaving their path clear and efficient.
Behind them, Astron's team wasn't far behind. Astron led with quiet determination, his keen eyes scanning for traps and guiding his team with unwavering precision. Elise darted ahead, her agility allowing her to navigate the rough terrain and call out hazards, while Simon's strength proved invaluable in clearing heavier obstacles. Julia, bringing up the rear, kept their pace steady with her sharp instincts and quick reactions.
As the summit finally came into view, Irina's team surged forward with one last burst of energy. Irina's fiery spells blazed a trail through the final incline, her competitive spirit blazing even brighter than her mana. Sylvie's enchantments complemented her, ensuring every move was efficient and deliberate.
Just as Astron's team reached the summit's edge, they saw Irina's team step onto the plateau. Irina came to a halt, a triumphant smirk curling across her lips as she glanced over her shoulder.
Astron stepped up seconds later, his expression calm and unreadable as he took in the scene. Julia, however, didn't miss the smirk aimed in their direction.
"Fuck…" Julia muttered, doubling over with her hands on her knees to catch her breath. She glared up at Irina, her voice laced with exasperation. "If I knew you were coming, I would have run faster."
It was Julia's loss.
Chapter 763 - New semester, same training (3)
Irina's fiery smirk remained as she walked over to Astron, who stood at the edge of the summit with his usual calm demeanor. Her gaze flicked briefly to Julia, who was still catching her breath, muttering about Irina's unexpected presence.
'This guy,' Irina thought, a mix of amusement and exasperation flickering across her expression. She had pieced it together the moment Julia spoke—Astron hadn't mentioned their team was right behind them. And knowing him, it was deliberate.
Stopping beside him, she tilted her head, her amber eyes narrowing slightly. "Did you not mention us to Julia?"
"No," Astron replied simply, his voice steady as ever.
Irina crossed her arms, her sharp gaze studying his unreadable expression. "Why?"
"There was no need," he said, glancing at her briefly before looking back toward the horizon. The faint breeze at the summit ruffled his dark hair, and his composure was maddeningly unaffected.
Irina clicked her tongue, her smirk faltering into something closer to irritation. "...You," she muttered, her tone carrying a hint of disbelief. "You do realize that if you had told her and taken full control of the situation, your team could have won, right?"
Astron's sharp purple eyes turned to her, and for a moment, she thought she saw the faintest flicker of amusement. "Remember," he said calmly, "this is a training exercise, not a race."
Irina raised an eyebrow, her smirk slowly returning as she let out a small laugh. "Well… oddly enough, for something that's 'not a race,' we got a notification declaring a first-place finisher."
Astron paused, his gaze steady as he considered her words. After a moment, he simply said, "I have no comment on that."
Irina couldn't help but laugh softly, shaking her head as she glanced over at Julia and the others. Her competitive spirit still burned brightly, but she couldn't deny that Astron's pragmatic approach intrigued her. He had a way of seeing the bigger picture, of remaining unfazed by the smaller victories and losses.
"You're impossible, you know that?" she said, her tone lighter now.
"Only to those who don't listen," Astron replied, his tone betraying the faintest hint of humor.
Irina rolled her eyes, though her smirk softened into something more genuine. Standing beside him at the summit, with the cool wind brushing against them and the rest of the teams catching up in the distance, she found herself strangely content.
"Next time," she said, her voice carrying a playful edge, "don't hold back. I want to see how far you can really push them."
"You do know I will not do that," Astron said, his calm purple gaze fixed on her.
Irina tilted her head, her smirk fading slightly as curiosity flickered in her amber eyes. "Why?"
Astron didn't answer immediately, his gaze steady and unreadable as he looked at her. After a moment, he spoke, his voice quiet but firm. "Don't you know?"
Irina opened her mouth to respond but stopped herself. She did know. She knew exactly why Astron wouldn't give everything he had for something as inconsequential as a race. Her competitive spirit bristled against it, but deep down, she understood his reasoning. The way he always seemed to look beyond the immediate—it was as infuriating as it was admirable.
"That…" Irina trailed off, the words catching in her throat. She let out a soft sigh, her fiery hair shifting slightly in the breeze as she turned her gaze toward the horizon. "I guess I do."
Astron's expression didn't change, but the faintest flicker of understanding passed through his eyes. He didn't press her further, allowing the quiet moment to settle between them.
Irina crossed her arms, glancing at him out of the corner of her eye. "You're always like this. Thinking ahead, holding back. It's frustrating sometimes, you know?"
Astron's lips curved into the faintest hint of a smile. "Is it?"
"Yes," she said, though her tone had softened, her earlier annoyance replaced by something closer to resignation. "But… I guess that's what makes you, you."
As the wind settled at the summit and the last of the cadets gathered around, the instructors arrived, their sharp gazes sweeping over the students. Professor Eleanor stood at the forefront, her commanding presence immediately silencing any lingering chatter.
"Congratulations to all teams who reached the summit," she began, her voice crisp and clear. "You've completed the course, and your rankings and feedback will be provided momentarily."
Eleanor's gaze shifted to the digital tablet in her hand as she tapped a few commands. Large holographic displays sprang to life above her, showing the rankings and individual team scores. As expected, Victor's team held the top spot, with Irina's team listed second and Astron's team third.
The results earned murmurs from the gathered cadets, though most of the noise came from those in the lower ranks. Irina and her team exchanged satisfied glances, while Julia folded her arms with a grumble. "Third? Ugh, I hate being in the bronze position."
Eleanor's sharp gaze cut through the murmurs. "Now, let me provide feedback on the top three teams."
She turned to Victor's group first, her expression neutral. "Victor Blackthorn's team. First place with the fastest completion time. As expected, your coordination and resourcefulness were impeccable. However, I would caution against over-reliance on Victor's individual abilities. A team must succeed as a unit, not as a single powerhouse dragging the others forward."
Victor gave a small, almost dismissive nod, clearly unaffected by the critique. His teammates, however, looked slightly uneasy.
Eleanor then shifted her attention to Irina's group. "Irina Emberheart's team. Second place, with excellent performance across the board. Your synergy and use of mana manipulation were commendable, particularly the complementary abilities displayed by Irina and Sylvie."
Irina's smirk widened slightly, and Sylvie beamed, her earlier demeanor replaced by her usual cheer.
Eleanor's gaze sharpened. "However, Irina, I would remind you not to let your competitive instincts override caution. While your approach was effective, there were moments when risk could have led to costly mistakes."
Irina raised an eyebrow but didn't argue. "Understood, Professor," she said, though her smirk remained firmly in place.
Finally, Eleanor's gaze fell on Astron's team. "Astron Natusalune's team. Third place, with one of the most balanced performances of the day. Your teamwork and strategy were exceptional, particularly in navigating the illusion formation and handling unexpected traps."
Elise straightened slightly at the praise, and Simon grinned, nudging Julia with his elbow. "See? Not bad at all."
And just like that she continued giving feedback to the students. And then as she finished,
Eleanor stepped back, her gaze sweeping over the gathered cadets. "Overall, this exercise was a success. Many of you demonstrated significant growth in teamwork and adaptability. Those who struggled should take this as an opportunity to learn and improve. Dismissed."
The holographic displays faded, and the instructors began to depart, leaving the students to gather their thoughts.
"You are leaving already?"
Julia noticed someone leaving immediately, her brows furrowing as she called after him.
Astron paused briefly, glancing back at her with his usual calm demeanor. "Yes."
Julia huffed, crossing her arms. "Let's grab a quick me—"
"No," Astron cut her off bluntly, his tone neither harsh nor apologetic. He turned without waiting for a response and began descending the rocky path.
Julia watched him go, a bemused smirk playing on her lips. "As usual, Mister Aloof…" she muttered, shaking her head. Despite the curt reply, she didn't seem offended. If anything, she looked amused, as though she'd expected nothing less.
Letting out a small sigh, she turned her attention to Irina, who was still lingering with her team. "Well, well, Emberheart," Julia called, her tone teasing. "Second place and still acting like you're queen of the summit. What's the secret?"
Irina turned at the sound of Julia's voice, her fiery yellow eyes gleaming with her usual competitive spark. "It's not about acting, Middleton. It's just natural," she replied, her smirk widening as she crossed her arms.
Julia snorted, walking over with an exaggerated swagger. "Natural, huh? Is that what you tell yourself when you're just one step behind Victor?"
The playful jab didn't faze Irina. Instead, her smirk deepened, her confidence unshaken. "One step behind, sure, but still miles ahead of you."
Julia rolled her eyes, a grin tugging at her lips. "Touché."
As they bantered, Lilia approached the group, her red eyes sharp and her expression unusually stiff. Ethan followed not far behind her, his posture relaxed but his brow furrowed slightly. It didn't take long for Julia to notice the tension between them, the air practically crackling with unspoken irritation.
"What happened here?" Julia asked, her sharp blue eyes flicking between Lilia and Ethan.
Lilia scoffed, crossing her arms as she looked away, refusing to answer.
Ethan, on the other hand, didn't hesitate. His tone was calm but carried an edge of pointedness. "Pride often leads to destruction."
Lilia's head snapped toward him, her eyes narrowing into a sharp glare. "Humph!" she huffed, turning away again with a dismissive flick of her hair.
"It means," Ethan said, his hazel eyes meeting Julia's with a hint of exasperation, "that sometimes people refuse to acknowledge when they're out of their depth, and it costs them—and the team—precious time."
Lilia's scoff was louder this time, her tone biting as she finally spoke. "If you're so brilliant, maybe you should've done it yourself."
Ethan's gaze sharpened, his calm demeanor wavering slightly. "I would have, if someone hadn't insisted on ignoring the warnings and rushing ahead."
Irina, watching the exchange unfold, raised an eyebrow. "Wait, what's this about? What happened?"
Julia leaned closer, her grin widening. "Oh, this sounds good. Spill it."
Ethan crossed his arms, his tone steady as he explained. "We were stuck in an illusion formation. I told Lilia it wasn't something we could brute-force or rush through, but she decided to 'handle it herself.'"
Lilia's eyes flashed with irritation. "It wasn't as simple as you're making it sound. And for the record, I did break through it—eventually."
"Yes," Ethan said evenly, "after wasting half our time because you wouldn't listen to reason."
Irina let out a low whistle, glancing between the two. "Yikes. Sounds like teamwork wasn't exactly your strong suit today."
Lilia shot Irina a sharp look but didn't respond. Instead, she turned away again, her jaw tight as she stared out at the horizon.
Julia, unable to resist, leaned toward Ethan with a smirk. "Let me guess. You were right, and she hates admitting it?"
Ethan didn't answer directly, but the faint quirk of his lips said enough.
"Tch."
Lilia was annoyed.