[POV: Lyrius Ryder]
The glow of the holographic screen flickered in the room.
The voice of a news anchor—
> "The Academy Entrance Exam of the Year will begin in just one week.<
A banner scrolled across the screen, flashing the names of this year's notable contenders.
> "For the first time in Academy history, an unprecedented number of prodigies will be taking the exam. These are names destined for greatness—"
The screen shifted, displaying portraits of the elite.
> "Vynesaa El'Leather, the princess of the Elven Kingdom."
"Oliver Atticus, the third prince of the Human Empire."
"Seraphina Veyra, the second princess of the Mermaid Kingdom."
"Darian Vael, heir of the Dragon Clan.<
The anchor continued, but Lyrius Ryder had stopped listening.
His gaze was frozen on one name.
Oliver Atticus.
His fingers curled into a fist, nails digging into his palm.
"Oliver Atticus."
His mother's child.
