Ahiro stood before the imposing entrance of the Valorius Awakener Institute, its grandeur and size almost intimidating. It was a bustling scene as various cars dropped off students, each accompanied by their families. Parents gave last-minute advice and words of encouragement, siblings hugged their awakening brothers and sisters tightly, and friends shared enthusiastic farewells.
Ahiro, too, was seen off by Miss Jane and Elara. Miss Jane's face bore a mixture of pride and concern as she gazed at Ahiro. Elara, clutching onto Ahiro's hand, tried to hide her worry behind a brave smile.
Miss Jane leaned down, placing a gentle hand on Ahiro's shoulder. "Remember, Ahiro, you've got this. We're so proud of you, and we'll be waiting for you to come back during the breaks. You'll always have a home here."
Elara, her eyes brimming with tears, hugged Ahiro tightly. "You'll do great, Brother. I know it."
Ahiro returned their sentiments with a heartfelt smile. "I'll miss you All. But I promise I'll make the most of this opportunity. And when I come back, I'll be stronger."
With final waves and well wishes exchanged, Ahiro turned toward the gates of the Valorius. Taking a deep breath, he stepped through them, ready to embark on a new chapter of his life.
As Ahiro stepped further into the grand campus of the Valorius Awakener Institute, he marveled at the modern architecture and the advanced technology that surrounded him. It was a stark contrast to the orphanage he had grown up in, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and apprehension.
Suddenly, a small drone with blinking lights hovered in front of him, scanning his face with a beam of light. A robotic voice emanated from the drone,
Ahiro watched as a holographic display appeared from his band, showing his Candidate ID and room number. Around him, similar drones were buzzing through the crowd of students, verifying their identities and guiding them to their respective rooms.
Ahiro sat on a chair inside the allocated room that was bigger than the whole orphanage he lived in, there were students trickling in but much time was left leaving the hall mostly empty. As more students began to trickle into the room, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath. In the silence before the orientation, he reflected on his decision.
Coming to Valorius Academy had not been an easy choice, but it was a necessary one. He had experienced the crushing feeling of powerlessness twice in his life – first when his parents disappeared, and then when Mia was taken by the trio. He had endured it for too long, and he refused to let it define him any longer.
He was aware that the path to Elysian may have been easier due to his technical knowledge. Still, he had chosen the harder route because he was determined to change himself. He knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but he was ready to face it head-on. He had struggled before, and he was prepared to do it again.
The support of Miss Jane, Elara, and the others had meant the world to him. They had rallied behind his decision, believing in his potential and encouraging him to follow his path. When he had made his choice known, they had shown unwavering support.
When the decision was made he delivered his decision to the ATR receptionist who helped him send the application along with the recommendation. The weeks leading up to the exams had been grueling. Ahiro had dedicated himself to relentless preparation, pouring over books, practicing exercises, and pushing himself to do his best.
Soon the room began to fill, and Ahiro's nervousness was undeniable. But beneath the nervousness lay a newfound determination. He was no longer afraid.
After waiting for a while and collecting his thoughts, Ahiro opened his eyes to find that most of the seats had been occupied. Fortunately, no one had chosen to sit right beside him, a fact for which he was immensely grateful. He wanted to maintain his focus on the upcoming test and didn't wish to engage in conversations at the moment.
As the anticipation in the hall grew, the lights overhead began to dim, gradually casting a shadowy ambiance throughout the room. Then, in a sudden burst of light and energy, a figure dramatically appeared on the stage.
The figure seemed to materialize out of thin air, surrounded by a swirling vortex of shimmering particles. As the particles coalesced, they formed a silhouette that gradually solidified into a person. It was a breathtaking display of awakened ability control. The person who appeared had a commanding presence. He stood tall, with a chiseled jawline, silver-streaked dark hair, and piercing azure eyes. His attire was a blend of tradition and modernity, A finely tailored suit, rich in dark hues, hugged his athletic form, while a crimson tie added a touch of sophistication to his ensemble.
Ahiro couldn't help but be impressed by the dramatic entrance. He was surrounded by individuals who clearly had a high level of mastery over their awakened abilities. This was the environment he had chosen to immerse himself in, and it filled him with a sense of determination.
The figure on the stage smiled warmly. The room erupted into applause. When the applause died down, the person spoke " First of all, I am Head Teacher Lucius Ebonhart" His presence exuded confidence and charisma, and his words carried a sense of authority.
"And welcome, to Valorius Awakeners Institute," Lucius began. "You have all gathered here today because you possess the potential for greatness. Valorius is not just a school; it is a crucible where your abilities will be honed, your strengths will be sharpened, and your weaknesses will be forged into strengths."
Ahiro listened intently, his focus sharpening even further. He knew that this was just the beginning of a challenging journey, but he was ready to face it head-on.
Lucius continued, "In the coming weeks, you will undergo a series of tests. These tests are designed to evaluate your awakened abilities, your adaptability, and your determination. Not all of you will make it through, for Valorius Academy accepts only the best of the best. But for those who do, you will find unparalleled opportunities for growth and development."
Head Teacher Lucius Ebonhart continued, "Now, today we will be having our first test, the Theoretical Knowledge Test. This test serves as the initial challenge for our prospective students. It evaluates your comprehension of awakened abilities, the history of awakened individuals, and the theories underlying our powers."
He paused, letting the importance of the test sink in. "The questions are meticulously designed to gauge your grasp of the theoretical aspects of awakening, as well as your knowledge of various related subjects."
He then emphasized, "Keep in mind, not all will make it past this stage. We have a set passing percentage, and those who fall below it will be disqualified, leaving only the most knowledgeable candidates to proceed."
With that, he wished everyone the best of luck, and the room filled with a mix of anticipation and nervousness as the students prepared to begin the first test.