The announcement echoed across Zenith Academy's vast campus, sparking a wave of excitement and tension among the first-year students:
"The First-Year Practical Trials will begin tomorrow. All participants must report to the Main Arena at 0800 hours. Attendance is mandatory."
The message was clear: this wasn't just another test of skill; it was a statement. Zenith's trials were infamous for their difficulty and unpredictability, designed to push students beyond their limits.
In the Genesis Club's workshop, Seo Seojun read the announcement on his Scholar System display, his mind already racing through possible scenarios.
"Practical trials," Jiyeon said, leaning against a nearby console. "They're going to throw everything they have at us, aren't they?"
"Most likely," Seojun replied, his voice steady. "And they'll be looking to test weaknesses."
Hyunwoo adjusted his glasses, glancing at the half-assembled drone on the table. "What's the plan, boss?"
"We prepare for contingencies," Seojun said, his Scholar System generating potential scenarios: combat, puzzles, resource management, and survival. "No matter what they throw at us, Genesis needs to show we can adapt and excel."
Jiyeon raised an eyebrow. "And if it's something we can't prepare for?"
Seojun's gaze didn't waver. "Then we improvise."
Across campus, Eunha gathered her Ascension Club recruits in the west courtyard. The air was electric with anticipation as she paced in front of a holographic projection of the academy's trial grounds.
"This is our chance to set the standard," Eunha began, her voice commanding. "The practical trials aren't about survival they're about dominance. If we play this right, Ascension will prove we're the most adaptable faction in our year."
Minho grinned, cracking his knuckles. "Sounds fun. What's the strategy?"
Eunha's Scholar System displayed a detailed analysis of previous trial formats, highlighting common themes and challenges. "We focus on flexibility," she said. "If the trial is combat-heavy, we rely on Minho and the other physical systems. If it's problem-solving, Hyuna and I will take the lead. No matter the test, we'll adapt."
Hyuna smirked, leaning back against a wall. "Sounds solid. But what happens when something unexpected happens?"
Eunha's expression hardened. "Then we'll outthink it. Ascension doesn't lose."
The next morning, the first-year students gathered in Zenith's colossal Main Arena. The space was an engineering marvel capable of reconfiguring itself to host a variety of challenges. Today, it had been transformed into a sprawling obstacle course littered with traps, puzzles, and combat zones.
Instructor Han Yeseul stood at the center of the arena, her sharp gaze surveying the students. Beside her was Master Park Gunwoo, his massive frame and no-nonsense demeanor radiating authority.
"Welcome to your first practical trial," Yeseul began, her voice cutting through the murmurs. "This is the Gauntlet of Leadership. Your task is simple: lead your faction through the gauntlet and reach the finish line. Along the way, you'll face challenges designed to test combat skills, problem-solving, and leadership. Only the strongest factions will succeed."
Gunwoo stepped forward, his deep voice booming. "Each faction must designate a leader for this trial. Leadership isn't just about giving orders it's about making decisions under pressure. Choose wisely."
The factions huddled together to decide. For Genesis, the choice was obvious.
"It's you, Seojun," Jiyeon said.
Hyunwoo nodded. "You've got the best mind for this."
Seojun hesitated briefly, his Scholar System running a quick analysis of his capabilities. "Fine," he said finally. "Let's do this."
In Ascension, Eunha didn't need to ask. Her recruits immediately looked at her.
"You're leading us," Hyuna said, a rare note of seriousness in her voice.
"Of course," Eunha replied confidently.