Chapter 10: The Forest of Shadows
Caleb woke early, the first rays of sunlight streaming through his window. Today was the day he would leave for school, not just for regular classes, but to prepare for the biggest competition of his life. He stood by his mirror, adjusting his uniform and running a hand through his hair. His Dark Wolf sat in the corner of his room, its glowing silver eyes watching him attentively.
"You ready for this?" Caleb asked, a nervous smile tugging at his lips.
The wolf gave a low growl of affirmation, its tail swishing once.
With his belongings packed, Caleb headed downstairs. The aroma of freshly made breakfast filled the air as he entered the kitchen, where his mother stood by the stove. She turned, her face lighting up when she saw him.
"There's my champion," she said, setting down a plate of eggs and toast. "All ready for the big day?"
"Yeah, Mom," Caleb replied, taking a seat at the table. "I just wanted to say goodbye before I head back. The competition's going to be tough, but I'll do my best."
His father walked in, his usual stoic expression softening at the sight of Caleb. "You've been training hard for this, son. Just remember, it's not only about winning but proving to yourself what you're capable of."
Caleb nodded, feeling a swell of pride and determination. After finishing his meal, he hugged his mother tightly.
"Take care of yourself," she said, her voice tinged with emotion. "And don't forget—we're already proud of you."
"Thanks, Mom. I'll make you even prouder," Caleb promised.
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When Caleb arrived at the academy, the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation. Students were discussing the upcoming competition, speculating about their rivals, and preparing for the first phase: the written test.
He made his way to the examination hall, a sprawling room filled with rows of desks. As he sat down, his Dark Wolf lay at his feet, its ears twitching as it scanned the room.
The moment Caleb opened the test booklet, the system's familiar voice echoed in his mind.
[System Update: Synchronization in progress. Estimated time: 20 seconds.]
Before he could react, a glowing interface appeared before his eyes, overlaying the real world. His stats and abilities flickered briefly on the screen before shifting to display the first question.
[Assistance Mode Activated: Answer Guidance Enabled.]
Caleb blinked in surprise as the system began highlighting answers for each question, explaining concepts and providing context where necessary. The test, which should have been a grueling challenge, felt surprisingly manageable.
Still, Caleb kept his expression neutral, pretending to deliberate over each question to avoid drawing attention. By the time he finished, he felt confident he had aced it.
After an hour, the results were announced in the main hall. The headmaster, Mr. C, stood on stage with a tablet in hand, his voice carrying across the room.
"The scores are in," he began, his tone filled with pride. "And I am pleased to announce that the top scorer of the written test is… Caleb Ardent!"
The room erupted in murmurs and applause. Caleb stood, his Dark Wolf rising beside him. His heart raced as he made his way to the stage, joining the other top scorers.
Mr. C continued, "The top five scorers will represent our academy in the National Awakener Schools Ranking Competition. Joining Caleb are Mira Elle, Jaxon Hart, Lila Kane, and Darius Flint. Congratulations to all of you."
Caleb glanced at his teammates, each of them radiating determination. Together, they would defend the honor of their school, the world's number one ranked academy.
The representatives were given two hours to rest before the next announcement. Caleb spent the time reviewing his strategy, his Dark Wolf by his side. Meanwhile, news of the other schools' selections spread rapidly.
"The second-ranked school has chosen Kayla Dorne as their lead," Mira said, joining Caleb at a table in the lounge.
"Kayla Dorne?" Caleb repeated, raising an eyebrow.
"She's a prodigy," Jaxon chimed in. "Tactical genius, top scores in every test, and she's bonded with an S-ranked Phoenix."
"An S-ranked Phoenix?" Caleb muttered, impressed. He'd heard of Phoenix beasts, legendary creatures of fire and rebirth, but taming one was a feat few could accomplish.
"She's going to be our biggest competition," Mira said. "But we can handle her, right?"
Caleb nodded. "We'll figure it out. No point worrying until we face her."
At the academy's airstrip, sleek mana jets awaited the teams. The vehicles, glowing with magical energy, were designed for speed and precision. Caleb marveled at their design as he boarded with his team.
Nearby, the representatives from the second-ranked school boarded their own jet. Leading them was Kayla Dorne, her fiery red hair catching the sunlight. She exuded confidence, her piercing blue eyes scanning the crowd.
When her gaze landed on Caleb, their eyes locked briefly. A smirk tugged at her lips before she turned away.
"She knows who you are," Mira whispered.
"Let her," Caleb replied, a small smile playing on his lips.
The mana jets lifted off the ground, their engines humming with power. As the academy's campus disappeared below, Caleb stared out the window, his mind racing with thoughts of the competition ahead.
Inside the jet, the representatives reviewed maps and strategies for the practical test, which would take place in the Forest of the Shadow Abyss.
"The forest is a dangerous place," Jaxon said, his tone serious. "It's filled with high-ranking beasts and mana anomalies. We'll have to stay sharp."
Mr. C stood at the front of the cabin, a holographic map displayed behind him.
"The Forest of the Shadow Abyss is no ordinary training ground," he said. "Its dense terrain and powerful beasts will test your limits. Remember to work together and use your skills wisely."
Caleb glanced at his Dark Wolf, whose silver eyes gleamed with readiness. The wolf seemed calm yet alert, its posture exuding quiet confidence.
As the jet descended, the forest came into view—a sprawling expanse of shadows and towering trees. The sight sent a chill down Caleb's spine, but he pushed the feeling aside.
This was his chance to prove himself and his bond with the Dark Wolf. Whatever challenges lay ahead, Caleb was ready to face them.
The forest loomed larger as the mana jet landed on a clearing at its edge. Teams from other schools arrived shortly after, their presence adding to the palpable tension.
Kayla Dorne stepped out of her jet with her team, her Phoenix perched majestically on her shoulder. The fiery bird let out a shrill cry, drawing the attention of everyone nearby.
Caleb took a deep breath, his gaze shifting between the forest and his competitors. The real battle was about to begin, and he intended to come out on top.