As we continued our journey, Elder Ethan turned and addressed the group.
"You're likely familiar with our world, but I'll share some useful information," he began.
"Our world is divided into five continents: Eastern, Western, Southern, Northern, and the Central Continent, which is the most unique," he explained.
"Do you know why?" he inquired.
"Yes, Elder, because it's not located on the land but above the sky," answered a spiky-haired individual.
"That's correct. However, the reason remains unknown, and the mana you can absorb in the central continent is five times higher than on other continents.
Ofcourse there are exceptions if your clan is located under a mana vein, such as your Obsidian clan with a medium-grade vein," added Elder Ethan, bringing pride to the children around him, except for one who kept looking at the sky.
" You do know the grades of the mana veins right " asked elder Ethan looking at the young kids.
" Yes Elder, the mana veins are divided into low grade, medium grade, high grade, and top grade mana veins " said Silvia showing off her knowledge.
" Good "
" So you should know the preciousness of the medium grade mana vein which the Obsidian clan is able to posses only because of the protection of a Martial King powerhouse," he emphasized.
"Yes, Elder," responded the children and determined to become strong.
A short girl with a ponytail then asked, "Elder, can you tell us more about the academy?"
"As you wish," Elder Ethan agreed.
"The Heavenly Star Academy was founded by the alliance of the Heavenly Star God and two other gods from different races—the elven and dwarf races— living on the Western continent about hundred thousand years ago "
" Currently, it is one of the three major powers in the central continent, with upper management consisting of 3 Supreme Elders, 1 Headmaster, 3 Vice Headmasters, 9 Pavilion Lords, 36 Inner Courtyard Elders, and 100 Outer Courtyard Elders, along with an unknown number of guest elders. The remaining population comprises students. Depending on your class, you'll be taught by an Outer Courtyard Elder after reaching the academy," Elder Ethan explained.
Alex, absorbing this information, was cross-verifying what Uncle Albert had shared about the academy.
Eventually, they reached a place with a barrier in the sky. Elder Ethan halted and issued a warning.
" Prepare yourselves."
Everyone clutched the Griffin's features, sensing its energy gathering. Moments later, the Griffin's wings shone brightly with a red light as it burst forth with astonishing speed, instantly piercing the barrier.
As soon as their group pierced the barrier, a blinding light suddenly forced Alex to close his eyes, and by the time he reopened them, he noticed that the scenery in front of his eyes had changed.
A huge city had appeared in the distance in front of their group and the Griffin was heading straight at its direction.
" Have you noticed something " asked Lucas.
" Yes, the aura here is much purer compared to our place " answered Alex as he could feel the mana.
Lucas nodded his head and was about to say something when Elder Ethan voice was heard.
" We arrived at the Heavenly Star City "
The Griffin gracefully descended, bringing Elder Ethan and the eager group to a halt in front of the city gates. Elder Ethan turned his gaze towards the group and singled out Alex and Noah.
"Both of you, follow me. We'll proceed to obtain your outer disciple robes and academy ID," he directed with authority.
"For the rest," he continued, gesturing toward the others, "you'll be heading to the test center with these two inner disciples who accompanied me."
" You two can collect the reward for the task after guiding them to the test area " said Elder Ethan.
" Okay Elder " said both the inner disciples in joy.
"Let's meet again after the test, Alex," said Lucas, trailing the two inner disciples.
"Hmm," Alex nodded and followed Elder Ethan alongside Noah.
As they walked through the outer courtyard, Alex observed numerous disciples clad in distinctive green robes. Elder Ethan provided insights along the way.
"The academy is split into two sections: the outer courtyard, where you disciples reside, and the inner courtyard, home to the inner disciples and sect Elders," Elder Ethan explained. "While inner disciples usually don't interfere in outer courtyard matters, it means you'll need to rely on yourselves if conflicts arise. However, keep in mind that murder within 'Heavenly Star City' is prohibited, except in the arena. So, you need not fear fatal consequences for minor disputes."
Arriving in front of a massive structure labeled 'Administration Building,' Elder Ethan continued his guidance.
"This is the 'Administration Building,' the most crucial facility in the outer courtyard. Here, you'll receive your disciple robes and academy ID. The outer administrator will provide further instructions."
Entering the building, Alex noticed its five floors, each remarkably spacious. On the second floor, a middle-aged man in green robes emerged to welcome their group.
Seeing Elder Ethan, the outer administrator respectfully greeted, "I greet the inner courtyard Elder Ethan."
Elder Ethan nodded and indicated Alex and Noah. "Administrator, these two will be directly admitted by a special exception. Provide them with the necessary instructions. Now that I've brought them to you, this old man will take his leave. I hope you don't mind."
After uttering those words, Elder Ethan vanished from the room with the swiftness of a passing gust.
The administrator, seemingly unfazed by Elder Ethan's abrupt departure, cast a benevolent gaze upon the two young entrants, recognizing the privilege of special exceptions granted only to those deemed as prodigies.
"I assume Elder Ethan has acquainted you with the essential details concerning the city," he said in a kind tone.
With a fluid motion of his left hand, the administrator conjured two green robes, a tangible emblem of their status as outer courtyard disciples.
"These are your outer courtyard disciple robes. You must wear them at all times within the academy. Keep in mind, these robes serve as a visual indicator of your standing in the academy hierarchy: yellow for handyman disciples, green for outer disciples, and white for inner disciples," he elucidated.
Gesturing towards a nearby desk, the administrator directed their attention to a row of neatly arranged green-colored jade cards.
"These are your academy ID cards," he explained, "an essential possession during your time here. They grant you access to various facilities and services within the academy. Make sure to keep them secure."