Somewhere in another universe, exists a place called Elysium. This place is not much different from our own, except for one big difference. Humans have the ability to summon divine beings from their souls called Arcanas. In Elysium, many people challenge one another to duels using their Arcanas as a form of entertainment. Others, however, have dedicated their lives to become the strongest Arcanists in the world.  A tournament called Elysium's Arena was created to do just that. Every year, a comet known is Galial shines through the night sky marking the end of winter and the start of Elysium's Arena. The strongest Arcanists gather at this event, with the winner being crowned the title "Champion of Elysium" gaining wealth, fame, and glory.  Enter our protagonist, Nier Oghearus. He's an 18-year old boy who's soon to graduate high school. He's a gung-ho and determined spirit who dreams about one day entering Elysium's arena and becoming the Champion. There's just one problem. He doesn't seem to have an Arcana.  After a traumatic incident that leads to the death of his uncle, he awakens his Arcana Thanatos and vows to find the people responsible. Feeling a sense of helplessness and guilt, Nier attempts to become a student at Laur University, one of the top schools in Elysium in order to become stronger so that he can protect those that he loves.