Chereads / Linking Stars (old) / Chapter 2 - World of Contemporary Swords

Chapter 2 - World of Contemporary Swords

Within the world of Luminora, a harmonious tapestry is woven by the coexistence of humans, elves, dwarves, demi-humans, fairies, and other enchanting beings. In this world, the delicate fusion of advanced technology and age-old magic is not just a novelty; it's an integral part of the tapestry of daily life, intricately woven into the fabric of culture and existence as well as combat and live or death situations. The dark blue sky above is adorned with an array of stars, each a beacon that grants life itself, fueling the magnificent currents of magic that surge through the land.

Yet, the serene facade of Luminora's tranquility conceals a turbulent history. Even amidst the wonders of its magical landscapes, a lurking darkness threatens to pierce through the light. Evil, sinister and patient, bides its time, poised to strike and disrupt the delicate equilibrium that binds light and darkness. The tides of balance sway precariously as the world teeters on the edge of peril.

And yet, amidst this cosmic interplay, the stars overhead do more than merely shimmer. They link, their radiant threads intertwining not only with the world but also with each other. This celestial unity forms a guardian network, an unspoken pact to preserve the fragile realm they call home.

The story weaves its threads in the heart of this paradox, in the cradle of potential where individuals grow into their destined roles. Their journey unfolds at the genesis of all tales, at the very beginning, where the beginning prepares towards it's ending...

December 10, 4005

6:01AM Academy Assembly

As the students settled into their seats, the vast assembly hall buzzed with a symphony of voices and restless energy. Excitement filled the air as whispers and laughter reverberated off the walls, blending into a harmonious cacophony. The grand hall, capable of accommodating a thousand students, stood as a testament to the scale and prestige of the Celestial Sword Academy.

Just as the noise reached its crescendo, a commanding figure emerged from the wings, drawing all eyes to the center of the stage. Isaac Whiteheart, the revered headmaster, strode purposefully towards the podium, his presence demanding attention. His noble bearing and steely gaze silenced the room, casting a spell of anticipation over the assembled students.

The measured sound of Isaac's polished shoes echoed through the hall, each step punctuating the growing stillness. Every eye followed his movements, as if drawn by an invisible force. A hush fell over the gathering, anticipation hanging in the air like a tangible veil.

A resonant chime cut through the silence, its ethereal tone sending shivers down the spines of those present. The soft, sustained note acted as a gateway, marking the beginning of a momentous occasion. All eyes were now fixed upon Isaac, awaiting the words that would shape their destiny.

Isaac's commanding presence demanded silence as he tapped the microphone, a resounding Tap Tap cutting through the air. The sharp sound echoed through the assembly hall, grabbing the attention of every student present. The room fell into a hush, the buzz of anticipation lingering in the air like a charged current.

With all eyes fixed upon him, Isaac took a deep breath, his voice resonating with authority as he addressed the eager crowd. "Everyone..." he began, his words carrying a weight that commanded respect and admiration. "I welcome you to Celestial Sword Academy, a place where dreams are forged, destinies are shaped, and legends are born."

As the words left his lips, a surge of excitement rippled through the assembly. Cheers erupted, a thunderous symphony of screams and applause reverberating off the walls. The enthusiasm was infectious, spreading like wildfire as each student's anticipation reached its peak.

Isaac Whiteheart, a humble and affable middle-aged man, stood at the center of the stage, his glasses perched on his nose. His white hair cascaded down to his shoulders, framing a face lined with wisdom and kindness. He wore an unzipped white coat over a buttoned gray shirt, the fabric creased with years of dedication to his craft.

His attire was completed by a pair of long gray pants and sturdy gray boots that had seen their fair share of journeys. With each step he took, there was a sense of purpose and grace, his cane serving as both a practical aid and a symbol of his experience

But what truly caught the attention of those around him was the worn brown book he carried in his hands. Its pages were yellowed with age, bearing the marks of countless readings and the weight of forgotten knowledge. It was a relic of the past, a repository of secrets and forgotten tales which will seemingly not be revealed

"You all worked so hard to get here," Isaac Whiteheart's voice resonated through the assembly hall, carrying a tone of admiration and respect. He took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping across the sea of faces before him. The anticipation in the room was palpable, as if the air itself held the collective breath of the students.

"Many have tried, thousands have tried, only to falter on their journey," he continued, his words carrying a weight of both caution and encouragement. "But each and every one of you sitting here today has triumphed through your own skills and determination. You should be proud of your accomplishments."

Isaac's humility shone through his words, emphasizing that it was the students' individual efforts that had brought them to this prestigious academy. He understood the challenges they had faced, the sacrifices made, and the countless hours of training that had led them to this moment.

The academy had administered a series of rigorous tests, designed to assess the candidates' skills, knowledge, and potential. Duels, speed tests, strength trials, and conventional exams were all part of the selection process. Thousands of individuals had eagerly thrown their hats into the ring, each hoping to secure a coveted spot within the prestigious academy.

Out of the vast pool of applicants, only fifty emerged victorious, their names etched into the history of the academy. Light, a young man with enigmatic black eyes, sat amidst the crowd, his face wearing a stoic expression that betrayed no emotion. He had ranked an impressive tenth among the chosen fifty, a testament to his abilities and dedication.

As his peers celebrated and exchanged congratulatory remarks, Light remained composed, observing the scene with a detached air. His black eyes, sharp and perceptive, scanned the room, analyzing the dynamics and gauging the potential of his fellow students. He had a reputation for his cool-headedness, an aura of mystery that surrounded him, which only added to his allure.

Light Kazuki Graystone, commonly known as Light, stood apart from his peers at Celestial Sword Academy. Unlike the cheerful and energetic students around him, Light exuded an air of detachment and silence. His black eyes, partially concealed by his slightly long black hair, mirrored his enigmatic demeanor.

Adorned in the academy's standard uniform, Light wore a white blazer-style jacket with the school's official insignia proudly displayed on the left side. Underneath, he sported a gray, long-sleeved shirt with a unique collar design, featuring two light blue-gray lines forming an X on each side, symbolizing the unity and balance of the academy's teachings. The same insignia adorned the shirt, serving as a constant reminder of his commitment to the academy's principles.

His attire was complete with a vibrant red tie and well-fitted brown trousers, giving him a polished and distinguished appearance. However, what truly set Light apart was the sword he carried on his back, a constant companion that spoke volumes about his dedication to combat.

In his moments of solitude, Light could often be seen with his phone in hand, an unassuming device that held a world of its own. With his headphones on, he would immerse himself in music, finding solace and inspiration within the melodic rhythms that echoed in his ears. It was through this medium that he sought respite from the world, allowing himself a brief escape from his own enigmatic nature.

Silent and introspective, Light's silence held a depth that few could fathom. While others reveled in boisterous conversations and laughter, he preferred to observe, absorbing every detail and nuance of his surroundings.

Isaac's sincere words resonated throughout the assembly hall, capturing the attention and curiosity of every student. His eyes gleamed with a mix of wisdom and anticipation as he addressed the crowd.

"I am going to be honest," Isaac began, his voice projecting with a warm sincerity. "Within each and every one of you, I see sleeping warriors, yearning to awaken and unleash their true potential. And it is our duty, as mentors and guides, to help you unlock that potential."

A ripple of excitement spread through the students, their gazes fixed on Isaac, eager to hear more about the upcoming challenge he mentioned.

"This afternoon," Isaac continued, his words carrying an air of mystery, "we will transport you to a battlefield—a simulated battleground where you will face various trials and tests to gauge your capabilities. It is a chance for you to showcase your skills, adaptability, and teamwork."

A mix of anticipation and nervous energy filled the room as the students exchanged glances, their minds racing with thoughts of the challenges that lay ahead.

"But for now," Isaac's voice softened, his expression filled with warmth, "please take this time to rest and prepare yourselves mentally and physically. The Celestial Sword Academy is committed to providing you with the best hospitality and support, in exchange for your unwavering dedication and hard work."

Isaac's final words were met with resounding applause, the students bursting into cheers and excitement. The energy in the room was palpable, a harmonious blend of determination and camaraderie.

"Welcome to Celestial Sword Academy" Isaac's voice boomed with pride, his genuine smile illuminating the stage. The students joined in, their voices echoing throughout the assembly hall, forming a chorus of unity and hope.

As the thunderous cheers filled the assembly hall, resonating with the collective excitement of the students, Light Gray quietly made his exit. Oblivious to the fervor around him, he moved with purpose through the bustling corridors, his black eyes focused on the path ahead.

Unbeknownst to Light, a perceptive blue-haired girl named Liene had caught sight of his departure. With a smirk playing on her lips, she couldn't help but be intrigued by this enigmatic figure who seemed detached from the exuberant energy of the academy.

December 10, 4005, 9:20 AM.

The dorm rooms were abuzz with anticipation as the staff distributed keys to the eager students. The Celestial Sword Academy, with its sprawling campus, boasted thousands of rooms, each one meticulously prepared to provide students with a space of their own.

Light Gray stood in line, his stoic demeanor unchanged as he received his key from the staff member. He glanced at the room number etched on the key and made his way towards the designated dormitory. The hallways were bustling with students, their excitement palpable as they chatted and exchanged stories about their journey to the academy.

As Light walked through the crowded hallway of the dorm rooms, surrounded by the chatter and exuberance of his fellow students, his stoic expression remained intact. However, within his mind, he couldn't help but unleash a series of sarcastic comments in response to the cacophony around him.

"Ah, the sweet symphony of teenage enthusiasm," Light muttered under his breath, his deadpan voice barely audible amidst the noise. "I can already tell this will be a year filled with profound intellectual discourse."

He observed the animated conversations and boisterous laughter, finding it difficult to fathom the source of such unbridled excitement. With an arched eyebrow, he silently pondered the nature of their enthusiasm.

"Ah, yes, the groundbreaking discussions on the latest fashion trends and celebrity gossip. Truly, intellectual enlightenment at its finest," he continued, his emotionless tone dripping with sarcasm.

As groups of students passed by, discussing their plans and aspirations, Light couldn't help but scoff internally. Their grandiose dreams and ambitions seemed to be overshadowed by their incessant noise.

"Ah, the future saviors of Luminora, basking in their own glory," Light muttered, with an blank look. "I'm sure their combined efforts will bring about world peace in no time."

While others reveled in the excitement, Light found solace in his own silent contemplation. He made his way through the hallways, his sarcastic commentary acting as a shield against the overwhelming energy surrounding him.

Despite his emotionless demeanor and preference for silence, Light possessed a sharp wit that occasionally manifested as sarcasm. He had mastered the art of using biting remarks and dry humor to convey his thoughts despite having an emotionless demeanor.

As Light stepped into his dorm room, a sense of desolation washed over him. The space felt devoid of life, as if it had remained untouched for an eternity. The walls whispered tales of forgotten residents, their presence long faded from memory.

His gaze swept across the room, taking in the sparseness of the furnishings. A solitary bed stood against one wall, its sheets pristine and untouched. A small table with a single chair occupied a corner, appearing as though it had never hosted a lively conversation or a shared meal. The cabinet stood silently, its doors closed tightly, concealing secrets from a bygone era.

Light's footsteps echoed against the barren walls, accentuating the emptiness that enveloped the room. The silence hung heavy, a stark contrast to the cacophony of voices he had just left behind. It was a solitude he was accustomed to, but at times, it felt like a weight upon his shoulders.

He moved towards the bed, running his fingers along the smooth fabric. It felt cool against his touch, as if it had not been disturbed in years. Sitting down on the edge, he pondered the purpose of his presence in this forgotten space. Was he destined to become another forgotten inhabitant, lost in the annals of time?

"I mean, I had low expectations," he muttered sarcastically to himself. The emptiness of the space seemed to mock his arrival, as if it had been eagerly awaiting his disappointment.

With a sigh, Light began to unpack his bag, his attention drawn to his phone and headphones. He carefully retrieved them from the depths of his belongings and wasted no time in slipping the earbuds into place. The familiar melodies flooded his ears, effectively drowning out the empty silence of the dorm room.

He then takes out what seems to be a photo frame, his fingers delicately traced the edges of the photo frame, his gaze fixed upon the captured moment frozen in time. The image depicted a younger version of himself, standing side by side with a woman whose gray hair cascaded gracefully around her shoulders. A faint smile graced both of their faces, radiating warmth and happiness.

He stops for a moment with his mouth slightly open, before standing up, about to put the photo frame on the cabinet

As he places it on the cabinet, he notices another photo frame of a group of people, one having blue hair, another green, yellow, gray, and pink, as the picture depicted gave him rough feeling as if he knew what happened to the people in the photo

December 10 4005 1:00AM

That afternoon, Light stood among the crowd of anxious first-year students, their voices blending together in a symphony of anticipation. As the cacophony of sounds enveloped the air, he remained composed, his eyes fixed upon the sprawling expanse of the battlefield before them. It stretched out, a vast canvas waiting to be painted with the colors of their battles and triumphs.

Amidst the buzz of excitement, Light's stoic demeanor stood in stark contrast to the energy that filled the air. His gaze traced the contours of the terrain, noting the strategic possibilities and potential obstacles that lay ahead. The battlefield held a certain allure, a place where skills would be tested, friendships forged, and destinies intertwined.

Suddenly, the cacophony of sounds abruptly stops as Isaac Whiteheart grabs everyone's attention

The sudden silence washes over the assembly as all eyes turn towards Isaac Whiteheart. Light's gaze shifts, locking onto the figure standing at the center of the stage. There is an air of authority and wisdom emanating from Isaac, capturing the attention of every student in the vicinity.

Isaac Whiteheart stood tall before the assembled students, his voice projecting with authority and warmth. The anticipation in the room grew as he addressed the eager crowd.

"Greetings, esteemed students. I extend my gratitude to each and every one of you for gracing us with your presence," Isaac began, his eyes scanning the sea of faces before him. "Today, I have the honor of introducing an exceptional individual who will guide you on your path to greatness."

As Isaac gestured to the woman standing beside him, a sense of reverence filled the air. Her presence commanded attention, and the room fell into a hushed silence.

"Allow me to introduce Ann Bancroft," Isaac continued, a glimmer of admiration in his eyes. "She is a beacon of knowledge, a paragon of strength, and above all, a devoted teacher who will nurture your potential and shape you into extraordinary warriors."

Ann Bancroft stood before the students, her piercing yellow eyes surveying the room with an unwavering gaze. Her presence demanded respect, and her stern expression left no room for doubt. Her light-blonde hair was neatly tied back in a tight bun, save for a single strand that framed her face.

Dressed in her signature attire, Ann exuded an air of authority. Her brown long-sleeved skirt, adorned with white buttons, accentuated her no-nonsense demeanor. Black stockings hugged her legs, leading down to her polished black boots with distinctive brown lines. Completing her ensemble was a short brown cape, bearing the school's official insignia, draped over her shoulders with a small cut in the middle.

With a reputation for discipline and a strict adherence to rules, Ann was known for her unwavering commitment to the safety and development of her students. Her no-nonsense approach earned her respect, and her guidance was sought by many who understood the importance of her teachings.

As the students glanced at her, some felt a tinge of trepidation, while others saw an opportunity to learn from a formidable mentor. Ann's gaze swept across the room once more, ensuring that every student understood the gravity of their presence at Celestial Sword Academy.

"Welcome, students," Ann's voice rang out, crisp and clear. "In this hallowed institution, discipline and dedication are the pillars upon which we shall build your foundation. I expect nothing less than your unwavering commitment to your studies and the principles we uphold."

Her words hung in the air, carrying a weight that emphasized the importance of their responsibilities. Ann's sharp intellect and extensive knowledge were renowned, and she demanded the same level of dedication from her students.

"You are here to train, to cultivate your skills, and to unlock the potential that lies within each and every one of you," Ann continued, her voice leaving no room for complacency. "But remember, true strength is not solely measured by the power of your blade or the mastery of magic. It lies in your character, in your integrity, and in the choices you make."

"Ladies and gentlemen," Ann Bancroft's voice rang out with authority, capturing the attention of the assembled students. "Today, you will be deployed to the training grounds, where your strength and skills will be put to the test."

A hushed anticipation filled the air as the students prepared themselves for the challenge ahead. The prospect of being teleported to a random location ignited a sense of excitement and curiosity within them.

"In a few moments, you will find yourselves transported to different corners of our vast training grounds," Ann continued, her tone commanding yet reassuring. "You will have one hour to navigate the terrain, face various trials, and demonstrate your capabilities."

Her words resonated with determination and purpose, fueling the students' resolve to prove themselves in this simulated battlefield. They understood that this exercise was not only a test of their physical abilities, but also a measure of their adaptability, strategic thinking, and resilience in the face of adversity.

"Remember," Ann emphasized, her eyes scanning the eager faces before her, "this is not a battle to defeat one another. It is a battle against your own limitations, a chance to surpass what you believed possible. It is a test of character, resourcefulness, and the ability to work as a team when necessary."

The students nodded in understanding, their determination etched upon their faces. They were prepared to push themselves beyond their comfort zones, to confront the unknown and emerge stronger, more skilled warriors.

As Ann Bancroft's words reverberated through the assembly, Light remained stoic and unmoved. His eyes, like pools of darkness, absorbed her every word, yet his expression remained impassive. While the excitement and anticipation of the other students filled the air, Light stood apart, his silence a shield against the world around him.

His lack of outward emotion often sparked curiosity and speculation among his peers. Some wondered if he possessed a hidden depth, a reservoir of untapped power waiting to be unleashed. Others mistook his quiet demeanor for indifference or lack of passion. But they couldn't see beyond the surface, couldn't fathom the intensity that lay dormant within him.

"At the end of the hour, you will be automatically teleported back to this very spot," Ann concluded, her voice filled with a mix of expectation and encouragement. "Your performance will be evaluated based on various criteria, including teamwork, problem-solving, and effective utilization of your unique abilities."

As she finished speaking, a surge of anticipation coursed through the students. They were eager to prove their worth, to showcase their individual strengths while learning from one another's expertise.

With a final nod from Ann Bancroft, the students braced themselves for the imminent teleportation. Their hearts filled with excitement, nerves, and a deep sense of purpose. They were about to embark on a journey that would test their mettle and shape them into formidable warriors.

"We will be watching all of you, observing your progress, and assessing your potential," Isaac Whiteheart spoke with a firm yet encouraging tone. His eyes, filled with wisdom and experience, scanned the assembly of students. "But make no mistake, this is not a game. In the trials that lie ahead, you must give your all, for holding back could cost you more than you can imagine."

The weight of his words hung in the air, sinking into the hearts of the students. They knew that within these trials, the boundaries of their abilities would be tested, their limits pushed. The journey to becoming skilled warriors would be paved with challenges, sacrifices, and the constant pursuit of improvement.

Among them, an orange-haired male stood with a concerned expression etched on his face. As he listened to Isaac and Ann's words, his brows furrowed, and worry flickered in his eyes. He knew the trials ahead would be demanding and unforgiving

"You're no serious, right?" the orange-haired man expressed his concern at the present matter

Isaac Whiteheart's smile remained intact as he responded, "We are definitely serious." He paused momentarily before continuing, "And if I am correct, you must be Marcus Seibato."

Marcus Haiki Seibato, a calm and kind-hearted teenager, donned the standard uniform provided by Celestial Sword Academy. His white blazer-style jacket proudly displayed the school's insignia on the left side, perfectly aligned with the gray, long-sleeved shirt underneath. The collar of his shirt bore a unique design, with two light blue-gray lines forming an X on each side, symbolizing the unity and balance that Marcus sought to uphold. A vibrant red tie added a touch of color to his ensemble, complementing the brown trousers he wore.

But what set Marcus apart from his peers was the imposing scythe that rested comfortably on his back. Its sleek, polished blade and intricate design exuded an air of both elegance and danger. Marcus's choice of weapon reflected his unique style and hinted at the depths of his skills as a warrior.

As the trials at Celestial Sword Academy approached, Marcus embraced the opportunity to test his abilities and unlock his full potential. His scythe would serve as an extension of his strength, precision, and unwavering resolve. With each swing of the blade, he aimed to protect and uplift those around him, embodying the spirit of a true guardian.

"Yeah... I mean... but..." Marcus stammered nervously, his concern evident in his voice as he struggled to find the right words to express his apprehensions. His eyes darted around the room, searching for any sign of reassurance or clarification.

As the screams of shock echoed through the assembly, Marcus's eyes widened with a mix of surprise and trepidation. He watched as one of the students vanished within the bright light, their voice fading into the distance. His heart raced with anticipation, knowing that it was now his turn to face the unknown

The bright light enveloped Marcus, its warmth and energy wrapping around him like a protective cocoon. His surroundings blurred as he felt a sensation of weightlessness, as if he was being transported through time and space itself. The world around him shifted and morphed, colors blending together in a dazzling display.

Uhm..." Marcus muttered, his voice filled with a mix of surprise and uncertainty. As he looked around, he found himself standing in the midst of a dense forest, tall trees towering above him, their branches reaching out like skeletal fingers. Shadows danced among the foliage, creating an eerie atmosphere.

Feeling a slight shiver run down his spine, Marcus tightened his grip on his trusty scythe, seeking comfort in its familiar weight. He scanned his surroundings, trying to discern any signs of movement or danger lurking within the thick undergrowth.

"Oh great..." Marcus muttered under his breath, a tinge of frustration evident in his voice. He swiftly reached behind his back and retrieved his trusty scythe, its sharp blade glinting in the dappled sunlight filtering through the forest canopy. The weapon felt reassuringly familiar in his hands, its weight providing a sense of security.

Meanwhile, As the blinding light faded, Light found himself standing in an open space surrounded by menacing creatures. Without hesitation, a ferocious beast lunged towards him, its claws poised to strike. With a swift movement, Light drew his sword from its sheath, intercepting the attack just in time.

Light leaps up, delivering a powerful kick to the monster's face, sending it crashing to the ground. With swift precision, he follows up with a display of his stellar art -Double Edge- executing two consecutive slashes that effortlessly dispatch the beast.

"I am a swordsman...," Light muses silently, his footsteps steady as he sheathes his sword, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

As Light walks away from the defeated monster with his back turned away from the lying corpse of the beast, an unknown individual observes him from a distance, their gaze fixed upon him.

"It's him..." the person whispers softly, their voice filled with a mix of intrigue and curiosity.

As the chaotic battlefield unfolds, the yellow-haired girl from the bus finds herself being chased by a relentless monster, fear evident in her eyes and voice.

"Ahhh!!!" she screams, her voice filled with panic as she desperately tries to outrun the creature. However, her efforts prove futile as the monster leaps towards her, leaving a deep scratch on her arm with its razor-sharp claws.

"Ouch!!!" she exclaims in pain, her face contorted. "That wasn't very nice!!"

Despite her injury, the girl's spirit remains unbroken, and a determination shines in her eyes as she prepares to face the monster head-on.

With unwavering resolve, the yellow-haired girl swiftly reaches for her bow, her fingers deftly stringing an arrow. Drawing the bowstring back, she takes aim with unwavering focus. Channeling her skill and precision, she releases the arrow with all her might, unleashing the devastating bow stellar arts known as -Arrow Surge-, The arrow soars through the air, finding its mark with remarkable accuracy, piercing the monster's head with a resounding impact.

"RAAAAAA!!!" the wounded monster bellows in agony, its pained cry echoing through the battlefield. As the creature attempts to remove the arrow lodged in its head, the yellow-haired girl remains composed, ready to face whatever comes next.

"Not going down that easily, huh?" the yellow-haired girl mutters, determination etched across her face. As the monster's claws tear through her flesh, she grits her teeth, refusing to let pain dampen her resolve.

With her bow knocked out of reach, she quickly assesses the situation. The monster looms over her, its malicious intent evident in its drooling jaws.

As the monster's claws bear down on the defenseless girl, a sudden clang interrupts the impending doom. Light, with his emotionless face, swiftly intervenes, blocking the monster's attack with his sword. The impact sends a jolt of force through his arms, but he remains steadfast.

Without a hint of emotion, Light drops his sword, catching it seamlessly with his other hand. The monster, momentarily caught off-guard, loses its balance and tumbles to the ground. Sensing an opportunity, Light capitalizes on the opening.

"D-does he remember me..." thoughts Claire

With fluid grace, he executes a stellar art known as -Windwhirl-, The blade slices through the air with incredible speed and precision, cutting through the monster's flesh and severing it in two. A spray of dark blood splatters the ground as the creature falls lifelessly as Claire watched in shock with his power, how he saved her, and how she met him in the bus despite his rude nature and how he didn't remember her.

The yellow-haired girl watches in awe as Light effortlessly takes down another monster before he disappears into the battlefield. Her heart races with a mixture of gratitude and curiosity. "Who was he?" she wonders, her voice barely audible.

Picking up her fallen bow, she gathers her thoughts and tries to make sense of the encounter. Confusion lingers on her face as she contemplates the silent individual who vanished as quickly as he appeared, after he saved her and how he was the same person who caught her on the bus.

As Marcus ventured deeper into the battlefield, his voice echoed through the trees, expressing his yearning for a worthy opponent. The dense forest enveloped him in its green embrace, creating an atmosphere of mystery and anticipation.

As Marcus ventured deeper into the battlefield, his voice echoed through the trees, expressing his yearning for a worthy opponent. The dense forest enveloped him in its green embrace, creating an atmosphere of mystery and anticipation.

"Monsters... Monsters... Where are you?" says Marcus with a bored tone

"I swear... If I don't find-" Marcus begins to say, but his words are abruptly cut off as a menacing monster leaps out from a bush, lunging towards him with its razor-sharp teeth. Marcus swiftly reacts, raising his scythe to block the monster's ferocious bite.

A fierce determination glimmers in Marcus' eyes as he faces the creature before him. With a quick, fluid motion, he counterattacks with his stellar arts known as -Whirlwind- Whirling with his scythe extended, he unleashes a devastating spinning strike that cuts through the air with incredible speed and precision.

The monster recoils in pain, its angry red eyes locked onto Marcus. Droplets of drool fall from its gaping maw, adding to the intensity of the encounter. Undeterred by the monster's fury, Marcus remains focused, ready to continue the battle.

As the dust settles, it becomes evident that Marcus' attack has taken its toll. The monster lies severed in two halves in his disappointment

"Oh come on!" Marcus exclaims with a hint of disappointment in his voice as he lands on the ground. "I took it out so easily... Could've had more fun with it."

Despite his victory, Marcus longs for a greater challenge, seeking the exhilaration that comes with pushing his limits. His thirst for battle and his desire to test his skills drive him forward, always yearning for stronger opponents to face.

With a sigh, Marcus scans the surrounding area, determined to find another worthy adversary. He understands that true growth lies in facing formidable challenges and overcoming them. His journey in this battlefield has only just begun, and he eagerly awaits the next test of his abilities.

Suddenly, an unexpected sound fills the air as a sharp metallic clang echoes through the forest. Marcus instinctively turns around, only to witness a blade intercepting the monster's attack. The monster recoils, its claws deflected by the swift and precise maneuver.

Marcus's eyes widen as he catches sight of the blue-haired girl standing on a nearby tree branch. The sunlight gleams off the blade she wields, and her smirk adds an air of intrigue to the scene.

"Huh?" Marcus stammers, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected rescue.

The blue-haired girl gracefully descends from the branch, her confident demeanor never wavering. She lands with a soft thud, her eyes fixated on Marcus.

"RAAAAA!!!" screams the monster as it lunges towards Marcus and Liene, its claws ready to strike. In a swift and calculated move, the blue haired girl hurls both blades from her kyoketsu-shoge, accurately targeting the monster's eyes. The blades pierce through its eyes, causing it to howl in pain.

"RAAAAAAAA!!!" the monster screams, disoriented and thrashing about blindly. Taking advantage of the opening, Marcus leaps into action. With a powerful leap, he activates hisstellar art -Heaven's Descent-. As he descends, his scythe slices through the air and impales the monster's head, bringing it down with a final, thunderous roar.

The blue haired girl jumps off the branch with a smile on her face and approaches Marcus, who is shocked and can only stand speechlessly.

"Hello," says the blue haired girl. "Who might you be?"

"M-Marcus," stammers Marcus.

"Marcus, huh?" says the blue haired girl as she offers him a handshake. "Well, I'm Liene. Nice to meet you."

"Yeah," Marcus replied, feeling a sense of warmth in Liene's handshake. He couldn't help but notice her bright blue hair and the shyness in her eyes

Eliene Hina Tanaka, commonly known as Liene, possessed a unique combination of shyness and fiery energy. Her bright blue eyes sparkled with curiosity, and her long blue hair, often adorned with a flower-like hairband, cascaded down her back. A single strand of hair hung loose from her right shoulder, adding a touch of playfulness to her appearance. Liene's attire mirrored the standard uniform provided to all the female students at Celestial Sword Academy. She wore a white blazer-type jacket cropped to her waist, revealing a glimpse of a light blue skirt that fell gracefully around her knees. Completing her ensemble were knee-length or longer socks, a vibrant red ribbon adorning her collar, and a distinct gray and dark green collar encircling her neck.

Liene's most notable feature was the pair of blades she carried with her, attached to small scabbards on either side of her hips. These blades were part of her unique weapon, the Kyoketsu-shoge. The weapon's intricately designed blades displayed her expertise in close combat, while the rope connecting them added an element of versatility to her fighting style.

Though initially shy, Liene's true nature shone through when she embraced her hotheaded, upbeat, and energetic side. With her dynamic personality and the enigmatic aura surrounding her, Liene was a force to be reckoned with. Her presence in any situation was sure to add a dash of excitement and unpredictability.

Meanwhole, In an open field, after successfully defeating the monster, the yellow-haired girl couldn't help but feel exhaustion creeping into her limbs. Breathing heavily, she leaned against a nearby tree, finding solace in its sturdy presence.

As she caught her breath, a peculiar sensation washed over her body. A faint blue glow began to emanate from her, gradually enveloping her in its ethereal embrace. Her eyes widened in confusion and surprise, her brows furrowing as she tried to comprehend the inexplicable phenomenon unfolding before her.

"What's happening?" she murmured, her voice laced with uncertainty. She closed her eyes momentarily, hoping to find some clarity upon reopening them. To her astonishment, when her eyes fluttered open, she found herself back at the very starting point of the battlefield, surrounded by her fellow participants.

Small fragments of light danced around the returning warriors, gradually dissipating into thin air. The yellow-haired girl's gaze darted around, taking in the bewildered expressions of her comrades. The sudden teleportation and the fading remnants of the mystical light left her utterly perplexed.

"What the...?" she trailed off, her voice filled with confusion and curiosity. Her mind raced, searching for any semblance of understanding regarding the strange turn of events. Little did she know that this teleportation was an intentional part of the evaluation, designed to challenge their adaptability and resilience in unpredictable scenarios.

As the participants slowly regrouped, a mix of uncertainty and anticipation hung in the air. The yellow-haired girl, along with the others, found themselves standing once more at the starting line, their determination undeterred by the enigmatic circumstances. They were ready to face whatever trials awaited them, united in their shared experiences and the resilience forged in the heat of battle.

Isaac's voice resonated through the air, drawing the attention of the participants. The weary warriors turned their gaze towards him, their expressions a mix of fatigue and curiosity. The yellow-haired girl, still trying to make sense of the recent events, listened intently to his words.

"Congratulations everyone," Isaac's voice carried a warm tone as he clapped his hands together. "You have successfully completed your test..."