"You are done with your interview." The headmaster says. "Once you leave this room the Master of Ceremonies will be waiting for you outside, where he will take you to the courtyard for your practical exams. Best of luck Mr Davis."
Nate gets up bows slightly and walks outside where the master is waiting for him. Once the doors open the Master immediately turns around not saying a single word. Nate decides to follow him. Nate followed the Master of Ceremonies through the labyrinthine corridors of NovaMyst Institute, the air was thick with anticipation, and the faint hum of Aetherium devices added to the tension. They both come to a stop when they reach a massive archway entrance.
"Through these doors is the courtyard where you will be taking your practical exams. Best of luck to you." The master says this as he opens the door for Nate.
As Nate steps foot outside he comes face to face with a grand, majestic building with a large central dome and multiple spires, reminiscent of a cathedral or a historic university in times long gone. The building is situated at the end of a long, straight pathway made of stone tiles, flanked by well-manicured lawns and rows of trees on either side. The trees are lush and green, casting shadows on the grass, suggesting it is either morning or late afternoon. The sky is grey and cloudy typical of New London. There are a few people walking along the pathway, but most are organized into a couple of various groups.
As he walks along the pathway he notices a few familiar faces, most noticeably the boy who was being a target of bad comments about him and his sister, and most importantly Elysia. She notices him too but as she attempts to go over to him more students get in her way showering her with compliments, trying to get into her good graces.
A few moments later the Master of Ceremonies comes outside from a different door and asks everyone to gather around and listen.
"It is time to start your practical exams. I see that some of you have already bundled up into groups. That is perfect as you will all be forming groups and are going to be evaluated." The Master of Ceremonies says.
"Will the group performance reflect on our final scores?" A student asks.
"No." Replies the Master. "You are simply being told to form groups, so it is easier for those doing the evaluation to accurately evaluate you accordingly.
"The practical test will consist of three parts." He continues. "The first part will consist of a series of challenges designed to test your magical abilities and problem-solving skills. You will do so by being asked to activate an Aether Scripts. This involves rapidly processing and casting a series of spells to achieve a specific outcome. Your speed and accuracy will be closely monitored.
"Next, you'll face a simulated combat scenario. You'll be pitted against a series of holographic opponents, each with varying levels of difficulty. Your ability to adapt and strategize will be key."
Nate's eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of excitement flickering beneath the surface, although that excitement was short lived once he noticed Elysia's worried look in his direction.
Finally, you'll be given a complex problem to solve using both magic and technology. This will test your creativity and resourcefulness. I would like to remind all of you that, this exam is not just about raw power, but also about how you think and react under pressure. As an added note I would like to also add that any and all exams done today will be done so by using the CAT devices provided by the faculty.
Nate took out his pink wooden katana, and looked at his CAT device, feeling a surge of confidence as he swaps his sword for one the school is providing for the test.
Nate felt the power of the CAT device at his fingertips, useless things but I suppose I'm ready.
As the first part of the test began, a holographic panel in front of Nate flickered to life, displaying a complex array of Aether Scripts.
"You will need to cast the correct sequence for the task displayed on the panel," the examiner's voice echoed through the courtyard. "Speed and accuracy will determine your score."
Nate took a breath, adjusting to the feel of the school's CAT device. It wasn't as smooth or precise as his usual weapon, the pink katana, but it would have to do.
Nate scanned the available Aether Scripts. The CAT felt sluggish compared to what he was used to, but he focused. He could see the Aetherium particles swirling through the interface. With a flick of his wrist, he selected the sequence, sending it through the magic calculation area in his brain. The spell started to form, but it was slower than he expected. He had to manually adjust the parameters, something he could usually do seamlessly. Ugh these fucking things
A faint bead of sweat formed on his brow. Keep it slow. Don't overdo it.
The simulated energy attack approached, and with a flick of his wrist, Nate released the spell. A shimmering barrier formed, blocking the energy just in time. It wasn't perfect, and the strain of holding back was evident, but he passed.
These devices are wank. He glanced at Elysia across the courtyard, her worried eyes catching his. She knows.
"Next, you will face a series of holographic opponents. Adapt, strategize, and overcome."
The courtyard shifted around Nate as the holographic arena flickered to life. Several figures materialized in front of him—armoured soldiers, each wielding Integrated Armament CATs.
Nate took a defensive stance, gripping the unfamiliar sword provided by the academy. The holographic soldiers wasted no time, launching a barrage of attacks.
The first opponent charged at him with a blade engulfed in fire. Nate narrowly dodged the attack, his movements precise but restrained. His instinct screamed to strike back, to crush the simulation in seconds, but when he tried a searing pain came from his chest, which caused him to get off balance, so Instead, he parried the incoming blow and sidestepped, allowing the soldier to stumble forward. With a quick manoeuvre, Nate struck at the weak point in the hologram's defense, deactivating it.
what the fuck was that pain?
More opponents swarmed him. Nate's mind raced, calculating their movements, adapting quickly. He couldn't rely on his strength, but his tactical acumen was unmatched. He noticed a pattern in their attacks—predictable, almost too mechanical.
He watched the holographic soldiers closely, picking out their repetitive movements. They weren't real, and their attacks followed predictable scripts. If he timed his parry just right, he could force them to expose their weak points, one after the other. Nate used their repetition against them, dodging and parrying in quick succession. His strikes were light but effective, each one deactivating a target with surgical precision. But with each movement, he felt the strain of holding back and also of that pain when he tried not to—it was frustrating, almost suffocating.
As he finished off the last hologram, he glanced toward the awe noise he heard. As he looked around, he saw a whole bunch of people looking at Elysia and Irina with shock and admiration in their eyes, as the two girls completely blitz their opposition.
As Nate looked around, he noticed Anton too was having a difficult time with his exams however he, just like him seemed to be getting a passing grade.
The final test, which the students now were working as a group, was a puzzle—an elaborate mechanism powered by Aetherium that needed to be deactivated. Nate's group huddled together, brainstorming and strategizing. Using their CAT devices, they detected magical traps and technological safeguards protecting the device.
Nate trying to lead the group, but to no avail seen as he knows nothing about devices like these. Of bloody fucking course I of all people had to get a test like this. His frustration is almost palpable, but when all seemed lost and that he would fail Anton stepped forward taking the lead, assigning tasks based on their strengths.
As Anton took charge, Nate's frustration mounted. He hated how useless he felt, hated that he was relying on others to solve something as trivial as a puzzle. This wasn't him. He should have been the one leading, the one solving the problem. And yet, here he was—powerless, useless, watching others do what he should be doing. As they worked, the tension mounted. Each second was crucial, and the clock was ticking down. Irina's ability to keep the bomb timer constantly frozen came to the forefront, her knowledge and precision guiding them through the magical barriers also provided great support. Anton used his own skills to hack into the technological safeguards, bypassing the security measures.
From across the courtyard, Elysia's eyes flicked toward him, her worry evident in the crease of her brow. He could feel her unease, the unspoken plea that he not push himself too hard. But she didn't understand—didn't know how hard it is to just submit to these people.
Finally, with seconds to spare, they deactivated the bomb. The courtyard erupted in applause, the faculty members nodding in approval. The practical exams were complete, and Nate's group had proven their prowess.
The Master of Ceremonies stepped forward; his expression pleased. "Well done, everyone. Your performances will be evaluated, and you will be informed of your placements shortly. Remember, this is just the beginning of your journey at NovaMyst Institute. Continue to strive for excellence, and you will achieve great things. "As the groups dispersed, Nate felt a sense of uncertainty due to how useless he was during that last test he felt like he let them win which he absolutely hates. He glanced at Elysia, who smiled at him with pride but also a hint of pity, but Nate tried to ignore that last part, after all the challenges they faced today were just the start of their new beginnings.
The students were led back inside, where they waited anxiously for the results to be announced. As they filed in, a few students glanced back at Nate, whispers already spreading among them. One of the examiners lingered on Nate longer than the others, making a note on their tablet. He could feel the scrutiny—it wasn't over yet.
Inside, the tension was palpable as students whispered amongst themselves, speculating on their placements. Nate stood near Elysia, Irina, and Anton, observing the room with detached curiosity.
After what felt like an eternity, the Master of Ceremonies entered, a tablet in hand. Clearing his throat, he waited as the room fell silent.
"My name is Kenneth Blackburn. I am also known, as many of you surely know, as the Master of Ceremonies. My duty is to oversee everything in this school when it comes to both students and faculty. Think of me as the person you go to when all else fails—your one and only last line of defense." His voice echoed in the hall, but somehow, as his eyes scanned the room, the silence deepened.
Satisfied, he continued.
"Since no one has anything to add, I will now announce the top performers," he said. "First, let me commend all of you for your efforts today. Each of you demonstrated remarkable skill and potential. However, some individuals distinguished themselves above the rest."
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Kenneth looked back at his tablet, then raised his gaze, eyes sweeping the room once more.
"In third place, from the Read family: Lance Read."
There was a murmur of confusion and surprise among the students.
A young man stepped forward, his posture exuding quiet confidence. With a fit, athletic build, medium-length dark brown hair that fell in a neat but slightly tousled style, and light green eyes, his calm and contemplative air made him stand out. His presence was magnetic, drawing curious glances.
"Wait, a Read? Here at NovaMyst?" someone whispered. "That's so creepy... but damn, he's hot," another student muttered.
The applause was modest as Lance nodded, accepting his placement with a slight smile.
"In second place, also a freshman: Irina Melnic."
Irina's eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly composed herself, stepping forward gracefully. The applause was louder this time, mixed with murmurs of admiration.
"And finally, our top performer, a freshman who has shown exceptional skill and leadership: Elysia Arundel."
Elysia stepped forward, calm and composed, as the room erupted in applause—a testament to her abilities and the respect she commanded.
Kenneth continued, "These students have set a high standard for the rest of you. Strive to reach their level, and you will find success here at NovaMyst."
A tense silence followed, the weight of his words lingering. Nate clenched his fists, anger simmering just below the surface. He could feel the stares, the whispers, the judgment.
Elysia stepped closer to Nate, her voice low but firm. "This isn't right, Nate. You deserve to be a Mark. We'll figure this out."
"A Mark?" he asked, arching an eyebrow. "To have a stripe," she clarified.
Nate shrugged, trying to appear indifferent. "Let them think what they want. It doesn't change what I am."
"Nah, nah, nah, this isn't right! My brother should have a stripe; he's leagues better than me, he is—"
A sneering voice cut through, taunting. "Shut the hell up, you incestuous little cunt."
Before he could blink, the air around him plunged in temperature, so sharply it was surprising that the boy hadn't frozen on the spot. Seconds later, his limbs were warped and bound, only attached by blocks of ice, his face contorted in shock and confusion.
"Be very careful with your next choice of words, Fane," Irina spat coldly.
"Whoa, hey! Let's calm down, everybody!"
A young professor suddenly appeared in the room so quickly that anyone watching might have thought he'd been there all along.
Anton placed a hand on Irina's shoulder, murmuring, "Let it go, Irina. He's not worth it, besides it is just a damn stripe." His calm presence seemed to pull her back to her senses, though her expression remained hard.
The professor stepped forward, sighing. "Well, I suppose this saves me the trouble of mentioning it later, but the use of CATs for combat purposes inside academy grounds without explicit permission is a clear violation of school law. Only members of the student council and enforcers are authorized to use and openly carry CATs outside of designated areas." He paused, letting his words sink in, then added, "As school has yet to officially start, I will overlook this incident. But please, allow the Master to continue his business."
The room relaxed slightly, but the tension lingered, hostility still thick in the air.
The Master continues. "Those of you who wish to stay at the academy can do so in the dormitories I will have Professor Lillian volunteer to show you the different accomodations since he graciously decided to help me." The master smiles at everyone. "This concludes your entrance to NovaMyst, Congratulations to all of you. Your journey at NovaMyst is just beginning. Embrace the challenges ahead, and remember that your efforts will shape your future and the future of our world."With this the Master leaves leaving Lillian, who then is joined by the rest of the professors and faculty alone with the students.
As the students dispersed, Nate's mind lingered on the rankings, the top three students, and the whispers that trailed him. It felt like a warning, like he was being told to know his place. He glanced back, catching Elysia's encouraging smile, but beneath it, he could see her worry.
He couldn't deny it—he was furious. But beneath the anger, he felt something else. Determination. As Nate's thoughts churned, a voice—smooth and confident—cut through the air like silk.
"Lady Arundel, congratulations on securing the top spot. Though, I can't say I'm surprised."
Elysia turned, her expression cool and composed, though a flicker of tension tightened around her eyes. Nate narrowed his gaze but stayed silent, the underlying annoyance clear in his posture.
"Lance," she said flatly. "I suppose I should say the same. Third place must be... satisfying."
"Third place is nothing compared to your performance." Lance's smile was easy, but something darker simmered beneath it. "Still, it's good to know where one stands. Especially at the beginning of such a long road."
His eyes flicked to Nate, sizing him up with casual interest. "And you must be Nate Davis? No stripe, I see. But that can be remedied, I'm sure."
Nate smiled. "I'm fine where I am."
"Of course." Lance's tone was almost condescending. "It's not about where you start, is it? It's about where you end up. And with allies like Lady Arundel, I imagine you'll find your way."
Elysia's expression remained impassive, but Nate felt the shift in her energy—an irritation she wasn't bothering to hide.
"You didn't come over here just to congratulate me, Lance," she said, cutting through the flattery.
A chuckle escaped him, low and rich. "So perceptive, as always. One of your many... admirable qualities." He took a step closer, lowering his voice. "But if you insist, I'll admit—curiosity got the better of me. You're not just another royal, after all. The Arundel name carries weight."
She held his gaze, her eyes sharp. "My family is none of your concern."
"Oh, but it is." His smile widened, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Families like ours... we have responsibilities. Burdens. You, of all people, understand that. It's only natural that we keep an eye on one another. After all..." His gaze drifted briefly to Nate. "It would be a shame if certain talents were... underutilized, plus families in union can never be too bad."
Nate's fists clenched. The arrogance in Lance's tone made his blood simmer, but he forced himself to stay in control.
"Let's drop the pretense," Elysia cut in, her voice sharp. "We both know the kind of 'talents' your family specializes in. And while you might be dying to play your little mind games, you won't find any cracks here."
Lance winces in pain. "You wound me, truly. I'm simply interested in fostering... mutual understanding. After all, it's wise to know who your allies are. And who they aren't."
"Funny," Nate finally spoke, his voice low and edged with disdain. "Sounds like you're scouting for future victims."
Lance's gaze shifted to Nate, the charm icing over. "Victims? That's a harsh word. I prefer to think of it as... maximizing potential. Influence is everything. Surely, you can understand that, given your... unique position at this academy." He leaned in slightly, eyes narrowing. "No stripe yet, but someone like you? It won't be long before others take notice. And when they do... having friends in high places can make all the difference."
Nate's eyes darkened. "I don't need friends like you."
Lance's laugh was soft, almost mocking. "Perhaps not now. But the world is a complicated place. You never know when you might need... assistance. Especially when you're surrounded by expectations."
"Like you said. No stripes, so no expectations here kindly fuck off."
Elysia shifted, stepping between them. "Whatever game you're playing, Lance, I'm not interested. And neither is Nate."
"Game? You make it sound so... sinister." His smile remained, but the edge was unmistakable. "We're all playing a game, whether we admit it or not. You know that better than anyone."
Elysia's eyes were hard, unyielding. "I know enough to steer clear of your kind of game."
Lance's smile thinned, his eyes lingering on her for a beat longer than necessary before he stepped back. "Very well, Lady Arundel. Until next time. But remember you can only put off your duties of marriage for so long." His gaze shifted briefly to Nate, a quiet warning in his eyes. "Mr. Davis."
He turned on his heel, walking away with the same casual confidence as if he'd just won the conversation.
Nate's jaw unclenched as the tension bled out of the moment, but his fists remained tight at his sides.
Elysia exhaled quietly. "He's trouble. Keep your distance."
"Wasn't planning on getting any closer, but if he thinks he is marrying you then that royal bastard can think again." Nate's voice was hard, still simmering with frustration.
She looked up at him, her gaze softening. "You did well today, Nate. Don't let him get under your skin."
Nate met her eyes, the anger still there but quieter now. "I won't."
Professor Lillian instructs the students with stripes to follow the headmaster while he shows the dormitories for the students without the stripe
"I'll see you tomorrow Nathaniel, do try and not kill anyone yes?" Elysia asks half jokingly, her tone somehow a mix of tired with thoughtful.
"Hey! I promised you I'd behave didn't I?"
She smiles at him acceptingly and walks towards the headmaster. Nate then turn to professor Lillian and follows him.
The dormitory for the Blanks is a stark, utilitarian structure situated at the edge of NovaMyst Institute's campus. The building's exterior is plain and gray, with minimal decoration and small windows that let in only a modest amount of light. The architecture is practical, devoid of any grandiose elements or intricate designs, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a functional residence rather than a place of comfort.The interior is equally unembellished. Narrow corridors, dimly lit by simple overhead lights, stretch through the building. The walls are bare, and the floors are made of cold, uninviting tiles. The rooms are small and sparsely furnished, each containing just a bed, a desk, and a wardrobe. The decor is minimal, with plain bedding and basic furniture, offering little in the way of comfort or personalization. dining hall was functional, with long, cafeteria-style tables and simple meals served. Despite the lack of luxury, the dormitory was clean and orderly, maintained by a diligent staff.
In the courtyard at the center of the building, a basketball court serves as the primary recreational space. The area is modestly equipped, providing a place for social interaction and physical activity. Despite the dormitory's austere appearance, the residents make do with what they have, finding moments of camaraderie amidst the stark surroundings.
Professor Lillian, with his enigmatic presence and sharp wit, leads the Blanks through the corridors with a purposeful stride. His voice carries through the narrow halls, both authoritative and slightly sardonic.
As Nate stepped into the Blank dormitory, his gaze swept the stark, utilitarian space. Bare walls, narrow corridors, dim lighting—it was as gray inside as it was outside. Each room was identical, and every corner exuded a sense of function over comfort. To anyone else, it might have felt like a punishment.
Nate gave a short, indifferent shrug. Comfort didn't mean much to him—he'd learned that early. Besides, luxury softened people; he'd seen enough of it to know that.
Still, the silence and plainness of the place held a quiet boredom, however he couldn't help but smirk as he moved further inside, the cold tile echoing under his steps.
cozy. he says to himself
"Welcome to your new home, my dear students," he says, pausing in front of the main entrance. "This may not be the most glamorous of accommodations, but remember, it's not where you start—it's where you end up. Make the most of your time here, and perhaps one day, you'll find yourselves in more... prestigious quarters."
He leads them through the main hall, pointing out the common areas and dining hall. "These are your common areas. Functional, simple, but they serve their purpose. You'll find the dining hall to your right—meals are served three times a day. I suggest you don't miss them."
Professor Lillian continued his tour of the dormitory with smooth efficiency, his voice unwavering as he guided the Blanks down the narrow corridors. Pausing in the main hall, he swept his gaze over the group, eyes keen and appraising.
When his gaze landed on Nate, he hesitated just slightly, his sharp eyes narrowing as if taking an extra measure of him. For a moment, Nate felt a flicker of curiosity in the professor's expression—something more calculating, almost as if he saw past the outer facade to something Nate wasn't offering freely.
Professor Lillian's mouth curved into the faintest hint of a smirk before he continued, not missing a beat.
"Remember, respect the space and each other. You're all in this together."
Nate held Lillian's gaze a beat longer, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. Interesting. He wasn't sure what the professor saw in him, but he could tell it wasn't nothing.. "Your rooms are assigned by number. Check the list posted on the wall to find yours. Remember, respect the space and each other. You're all in this together."
Finally, he pauses at the end of the corridor, turning to face the students. "Use this experience to prove your worth. The stripe, or lack thereof, does not define you. Your actions do. Now, settle in and prepare for the days ahead. This is just the beginning of your journey."
After the professor left and most students go on about with their day, Anton approaches Nate.
"Hiya! mind if I ask you a question?"
"So you do speak outside of when you are required to." Nate says surprised, to which Anton nods.
"Why wouldn't I? I am a human just like you."
Nate chuckles. "I'll say... 'sup whatcha need?"
"Nothing I am just curious... Why a pink sword?"
"Oh my CAT?" Nate unstraps his swords and shows it to Anton. "Well I figured no one would fuck with a guy with a sword, let alone if it was pink, but man was I wrong."
Anton laughs but something about his laugh seemed almost robotic, like he was trying to mimic a laugh rather than really feel it.
For a second, Nate felt a hint of unease. Was this guy putting on an act? Or was there more to him than the polite, eager-to-please persona he projected? Nate pushed the thought aside, deciding to keep it in mind. Anton didn't seem like the type who'd give away much up front.
"See ya later," Nate said, watching as Anton moved back to his room, curiosity lingering.
"I'll keep that in mind. I'll catch you around Davis."
"See ya later." Nate replies as they both go inside their assigned room.