The Scholarly Institute for Global Mastery and Achievement, known as SIGMA, has long been a beacon of excellence in the southern region of Lordrixis. As the alma mater of the legendary 16th Ethereal Warrior, Ricklan Armous, it has attracted countless young warriors eager to follow in his footsteps.
Among these aspirants is Shun, whose motivations for joining SIGMA are, however, completely different.
For ethereal warriors with ascended and complete class ethereal arms, enrollment is immediate and guaranteed. These prodigies, rare as they are, find themselves the objects of fierce competition among the academies.
The probability of possessing an ascended class ethereal arm is a mere 0.01%, and the chance of obtaining a complete class is even slimmer, 1 in a million.
As Shun surveyed the gathered hopefuls, his gaze was drawn to a slender, graceful figure. She wasn't conventionally beautiful, but there was an undeniable femininity to her that set her apart from every other woman he had seen. Her delicate skin, gentle eyes, and soft, wavy hair cascading down her shoulders made her an elegant artwork, marking the beauty of creation.
Lost in thought, she stared at the cloudy sky, oblivious to the attention she drew.
A firm tap on his shoulder broke Shun's reverie. He turned to see an energetic boy with a friendly smile.
"Hey, have you seen a gloomy kid with a book in hand?" the boy asked.
Shun shook his head, taking in the tall, muscular figure before him. The boy's friendliness was almost incongruous with his imposing presence. Extending his hand, the boy introduced himself, "My name is Jaylen Shielram. Glad to meet you."
Shun clasped his hand. "I'm Shun Xshasi. Do you want me to help you look for him?"
Having nothing better to do, Shun decided to join Jaylen. A friend would help conceal his true identity as a mass killer.
"That would be great," Jaylen's smile widened. "The person I'm looking for is Leon Ermy. Despite his antisocial and nerdy personality, you can't find a better teammate than him."
"I see how it is, Jaylen"
Just then, a boy with a disheveled appearance and emotionless eyes approached, resembling a zombie.
Before Jaylen could concoct an excuse, a commanding voice silenced the chatter in the waiting area. "Good afternoon, future stars of our great nation."
"I am the principal of SIGMA academy, and the 70th complete ethereal warrior of Lordrixis, Enwyld Lorthus."
"As you embark on this journey at our prestigious academy, you will discover the true potential of both your ethereal arm and personal excellence. Our academy is filled with opportunities, resources, and dedicated instructors. I guarantee that this year will be one of growth in ethereal combat and the forging of lasting friendships. The future of this kingdom lies in your hands, shaped by your wisdom and dedication."
"Welcome to SIGMA academy. Let's make this year memorable and successful together."
"All ascended and complete ethereal warriors, the superstars of future generations, please follow Instructor Lumiel to our most prestigious classroom, Celestial Summit."
Out of thousands of students, only a select few, including Shun, Jaylen, Leon, and the girl, walked towards Instructor Aeon Lumiel, a blue-haired woman with starry eyes.
As they made their way to Celestial Summit, Shun observed those around him. Ascended ethereal warriors exuded a distinct aura, amplified by Shun's connection to their ethereal arms. He felt a familiar presence emanating from the girl, one he had encountered before in Frenzied Dreams.
This could only mean one thing: she possessed a complete ethereal arm.
Surprised, they reached their destination, Celestial Summit. The room was empty, save for the intricate artwork adorning the ceiling and walls.
Instructor Lumiel addressed the dazed students with her dreamy, ethereal voice, "Welcome. My name is Aeon Lumiel, an ascended ethereal warrior with the ethereal arm 'Comet.' I believe you're not interested in my story, so let's get straight to our first lesson. Would you mind introducing yourself and your ethereal arm to the others?"
"My name is Jaylen Shieldram. My ethereal arm is named 'Empowerment Sigil,' a supportive ability that enhances all allies' vigor, strength, and endurance by 300%."
"Leon Ermy, Informational Intelligence."
"I'm Vito Fool. My ethereal arm is called 'Immortal Beyond,'" a hoarse and tired voice spoke.
"I'm Cloudy Adaire. My ethereal arm is 'Blinding Melody,' a debuffing ability..." a quiet and shy voice emerged from the back of the line.
"I am Emilia Cylus. My ethereal arm possesses the name 'Suppressing Artillery.' I'll keep the details a surprise," a confident and playful voice followed.
"Just call me El," his voice impressively deep. "My ethereal arm is 'Elemental Manipulator.' You can probably guess its abilities."
"I'm Shun Xshasi. My exclusive ethereal arm is called 'Imaginative Reality,' allowing me to manifest anything I imagine."
With a soft, enchanting voice, the girl spoke, "My name is Silver Iricson. I possess the 99th complete ethereal arm, 'Blade of Yin.'"
Before the students could react, Lumiel smiled joyfully. "Your first lesson: collaborate as a team and defeat Silver."