The moment the students stepped out of the grand hall, a roar of applause greeted them. The streets of Arkphis City were lined with cheering crowds, their voices a chorus of celebration that echoed through the air. Citizens waved banners emblazoned with the names of the passing teams, while others tossed confetti that glittered like tiny stars in the sunlight. The capital's vibrancy seemed amplified tenfold as the city's pride in its newest prodigies radiated from every corner.
Yumiko shielded her eyes against the sunlight, squinting at the crowds. “Well, this is... unexpected.”
“I could get used to this,” Jean said with a wide grin, waving to a group of young kids holding up a crudely painted "Team Z" sign. “Feels like I’m a celebrity already!”
“Master Jean, please compose yourself,” Arc commented, though a faint smile betrayed her amusement.
As they continued down the main street, the celebration showed no signs of slowing. Musicians played lively tunes, street vendors handed out treats to onlookers, and fireworks crackled in the distance, painting streaks of color across the clear blue sky. But amidst the excitement, a new spectacle caught the students’ attention.
At the far end of the boulevard, a row of enormous, reptilian creatures stood waiting. Each one were a strange hybrid of biology and mechanics, their sinewy, muscular forms intertwined with what appeared to be stone and bronze plating. They looked like massive lizards, each about the size of a small building, with long, sweeping tails and sturdy legs. Their backs were fitted with sleek, domed carriages that could easily accommodate a dozen people. Despite their size, the creatures moved with an eerie grace, their low growls vibrating in the air.
“What the hell are those?” Kiera blurted, pointing at the creatures with wide eyes.
“These are your rides,” Lucius announced, the black cat sitting smugly on one the lizard's shoulder. “Meet the Basalt Drakes. Efficient, eco-friendly, and, most importantly, not picky eaters. So, try not to annoy them.”
Rayven grinned, leaning over toward Kiera. “Maybe they’ve got a booster seat for you, huh?”
“I am going to murder you,” Kiera hissed, her face turning bright red as she lunged at Rayven, who darted behind a snickering Zee for cover.
Miki clapped her hands to regain everyone’s focus. “Alright, enough bickering. These drakes are how you’re getting to Arkphis Institute. They’ll take you to the floating campus while Fil and I stay down here to finalize some paperwork.”
“Floating campus?” Ajal asked, craning his neck to look beyond the towering buildings of Arkphis City.
“You’ll see soon enough,” Miki replied.
The students were ushered toward the drakes, their enormous frames even more intimidating up close. The creatures knelt down on command, their domed carriages opening to reveal plush, spacious interiors. Despite their mechanical appearances, the drakes’ movements were fluid, almost graceful, as if they were living beings enhanced by technology rather than fully artificial creations.
“I’m not gonna lie. This is cooler than I thought,” Zee admitted, climbing into one of the carriages and plopping into a seat near the window.
Vail followed, glancing warily at the drake’s sharp claws as he passed. “Better not be cramped in here,” he muttered under his breath.
“Don’t worry, Vail,” Rayven teased, poking her head in after him. “Plenty of legroom for you.”
Vail froze mid-step, his face twisting into an expression of pure indignation. “Legroom?! Are you calling me—oh, never mind,” he sighed as Rayven burst out laughing behind him.
Once everyone was settled, the drakes began to move. Their heavy footsteps reverberated through the ground as they marched toward the city gates. The cheers of the crowd grew fainter as they left the bustling streets behind, the vibrant cityscape giving way to rolling hills and open skies.
For a while, the students enjoyed the view in relative silence, the rhythmic motion of the drakes almost soothing. But as the horizon stretched out before them, a new sight stole their breath away.
Rising above the forested landscape was the floating campus of Arkphis Institute. Its base shimmered with the same bronze plating as the drakes, its edges adorned with cascading waterfalls that disappeared into the air below. The sprawling gardens atop the campus were lush and vibrant, dotted with pristine white spires that rose like sentinels toward the heavens. A network of smaller floating platforms orbited the main structure, connected by translucent bridges that glowed faintly in the sunlight.
Beneath the floating campus lay the Campus City, a picturesque settlement nestled among the trees. It was a patchwork of quaint cottages, bustling marketplaces, and serene lakes, the perfect blend of nature and civilization.
“Whoa,” Jean breathed, pressing his face against the carriage window. “That’s the school?”
“That’s the school,” Miki confirmed through the comm system in the carriage. “The floating part is the main campus—where you’ll train, study, and, if you’re lucky, become legends. The city below is for living, shopping, and whatever else you need to unwind.”
“This... is insane,” Kiera said, her usual scowl replaced with genuine awe.
“Don’t get too comfortable,” Garth chimed in. “You’re starting at the bottom—literally. Your dorms are in the woods surrounding the city.”
“What?” Yumiko whined. “You’re telling me I don’t get to live up there?!”
“Not unless you prove you belong,” Lucius replied with a smirk. “The best students earn their place on the floating campus or even claim their own territory. But for now, you’ve got a cozy little cabin waiting for you.”
The drakes began their ascent, their bronze plates glowing faintly as they activated their propulsion systems. The carriages remained steady despite the sudden lift, and soon, the students found themselves gliding through the air.
The closer they got, the more details of the floating campus came into focus. The gardens were alive with vibrant flowers and towering trees, and the sound of rushing water grew louder as the waterfalls became visible. It was a place that seemed to exist outside of time, a perfect fusion of nature, magic, and innovation.
“Well,” Ezekiel said, leaning back in his seat with a satisfied grin. “Let’s see if this place lives up to the hype.”
As the drake ascended higher into the sky, Ajal found himself leaning against the window of the carriage, his gaze locked onto the breathtaking view of Campus City below. The quaint cottages and cobblestone streets nestled among the vibrant green forests looked almost surreal, like something out of an old storybook. Lakes shimmered like liquid mirrors, reflecting the brilliance of the afternoon sun. The city bustled with life even from this distance, its charm amplified by the sheer majesty of the floating campus looming above it.
Ajal's thoughts drifted, his surroundings fading as a voice from his past echoed in his mind. Kaito’s voice—strong, confident, and tinged with the excitement that always seemed to follow him—played back one of his many speeches about Arkphis Institute.
"You know, Ajal," Kaito had said once, leaning against the cold cave wall, the blue crystals twinkling behind him. "Arkphis Institute isn’t just a school. It’s the school. The greatest minds, the strongest fighters, the most brilliant tacticians—everyone who’s anyone has passed through those gates. It’s where you find your limits and then shatter them."
Kaito’s voice grew more vivid in Ajal’s memory, as though he were sitting right beside him. "They call it the place where the ordinary become legends. If you’re there, Ajal, it means you’ve got something. It means you’re ready to take on the world—or maybe even change it."
Ajal’s grip on the windowsill tightened as he absorbed the enormity of the moment. He was here now. After everything—the training, the exam, his own doubt—he’d made it. And yet, as his lavender eyes scanned the picturesque city below, he couldn’t help but still wonder if he was ready for what lay ahead. Could he live up to the ideal Kaito had painted for him? He still wasn’t entirely sure what it truly meant to be an Inheritor. Could he ever become the kind of person worthy of carrying that title?
The carriage shuddered slightly as the drake continued its ascent, bringing the floating campus closer into view. Ajal’s gaze shifted upward, locking onto the grand spires and cascading waterfalls that adorned the Institute. The sight was enough to momentarily quiet the doubt gnawing at him. For now, it didn’t matter whether or not he believed he deserved to be here. He was here, and that was enough.
With a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips, Ajal straightened up. "You were right, Kaito," he thought, his voice quiet enough for only him to hear. "This place is incredible. Let’s see if I can live up to it."
As they approached the floating campus, a large bronze plated landing pad emerged from the side. The drake landed with a soft thud and a gust of wind.
"Welcome to Arkphis Institute," Garth said. "Now, get your butts off my drake."
"Well, I guess that's our cue," Zee said, rising to her feet and offering a hand to Rayven.
Jean and the others stepped out of the carriage and onto the landing platform. The surface was surprisingly smooth, the metal plates perfectly level and free of any imperfections. It was almost unnaturally clean, as if it had never been used before.
Jean and the others stepped out of the carriage onto the landing platform. The surface beneath their feet was startlingly smooth, the metal plates polished to perfection, gleaming under the light with not a single imperfection in sight. It was almost unnaturally pristine, as if it had been designed to impress rather than endure use.
"Wow," Cassian breathed, his wide eyes scanning the view beyond. The breathtaking expanse of the campus spread out before them—the towering main building shimmering in the sunlight and the verdant forest below it alive with subtle movement. "It's... beautiful. Don’t you think, Molly?"
He turned toward her, hoping to share the moment, but Molly’s expression didn’t shift. Her grip on Jolly remained firm, her face emotionless. “It is,” she said quietly, her gaze lingering on the grand structure ahead, though her voice lacked any warmth or awe.
Lucius leapt nimbly from the carriage, his fur gleaming as he positioned himself in front of the students. “Alright, kiddos,” he began with his usual playful tone. “See that path over there?” He motioned with a flick of his tail toward the wide, paved walkway leading up to the towering main building. “Just follow it, and your upperclassmen will be waiting to guide you to your dorms in the forest below. Once you’re there, settle in, rest up, and tomorrow morning, meet in your classroom. Got it?”
Jean raised his hand hesitantly, as though still sitting in a classroom.
“Uh... yes, Jean?” Lucius said, tilting his head with a bemused expression. “You do know you can just talk, right? You’re not in high school anymore.”
Jean coughed awkwardly before speaking. “You mentioned that the top students get access to territories and better dorms. What does that mean, exactly?”
Lucius’s whiskers twitched as he chuckled. “It means exactly what it sounds like. Once you reach the Top Three among all currently enrolled students, you gain the authority to claim land owned by the school. These territories are far away from the main campus and often in important or strategic locations. If you’re lucky—or skilled enough—they can even be incredibly valuable. But here’s the kicker: you’re fully responsible for their defense and prosperity. That’s why only the best of the best earn the privilege.”
Ezekiel, standing at the edge of the platform, leaned precariously over the railing, peering down at the campus city far below. Garth, grumbling, was desperately pulling at his arm, trying to drag him back to safety—and failing miserably. Without looking away from the dizzying view, Ezekiel called out, “What happens if there’s not enough land left to claim?”
Lucius sighed, clearly exasperated. “You kids and your endless questions... but fine. If all the land's been claimed, you’re free to scout and claim your own wherever you see fit. However,” he added with a sharp glint in his feline eyes, “once you go outside the school’s official holdings, the responsibility is entirely yours. The school won’t step in unless things escalate beyond a duel or it becomes a major conflict.”
Jean’s curiosity hadn’t waned. “So... what happens if someone tries to steal your land? Like, what if another student comes after it?”
Lucius smirked knowingly. “If someone challenges your claim, you’d better be ready to defend it. Disputes over territories are resolved through sanctioned battles. If you lose, the land becomes theirs. That’s the reality of being at the top—it’s a constant fight to stay there.”
Garth, still struggling with Ezekiel, let out a frustrated huff. “Can someone please help me pull him back before he falls?”
Ezekiel looked over his shoulder. “Relax, old man. I’m just getting a look at where I want my future territory.”
Garth groaned, muttering something about “brats these days” as the group began making their way toward the path, the towering main building of Arkphis Institute looming ever closer.
The group continued along the path, the towering main building of Arkphis Institute drawing closer with each step. The air was filled with a mix of excitement and tension as the new students took in their surroundings. The conversations began as scattered murmurs, but as they walked, the initial hesitation started to fade.
Ajal found himself slowing his pace, falling in beside Vail, who was walking with his hands stuffed in his coat pockets. After a moment of silence, Ajal decided to speak up. “So,” he began, glancing over, “you guys were the ones that passed early, right?”
Vail looked up, clearly surprised by the question. “Huh? Us?” he asked, blinking a couple of times. “No way. I thought you were the team that passed early. You’re an Inheritor, aren’t you? I figured you’d just power through the whole exam like it was nothing.”
Ajal let out a small laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. “Not even close. We barely made it.”
From up ahead, Lucius turned his head with a sly grin. “That whole ‘team passing early’ thing?” he said, his voice dripping with amusement. “Yeah, that was a lie. The principal made it up to make you all fight harder. Pretty effective, methinks.”
Ajal turned his attention back to Vail. “Either way, you guys racked up 100 points in a pretty short amount of time, so you must be pretty strong, huh?”
Vail scoffed. “Short? Short?!” His voice rose, and his eyes narrowed. “Are you saying I’m too small? That someone my size couldn’t get into Arkphis?”
Ajal blinked, thrown off by the sudden outburst. “What? No, I didn’t—”
“Because if that’s what you’re implying,” Vail continued, his voice growing louder, “then let me tell you something. Being ‘small’ makes me faster, sharper, and—”
“Vail,” a familiar voice interrupted. Zee was walking just behind them, her expression one of barely contained amusement. “He didn’t say that. I think you misheard. Again.”
Vail froze mid-rant, his expression shifting to one of realization. “...Oh.” He cleared his throat, straightening his coat. “Ahem. My bad. Thanks for the compliment, I guess.”
Ajal chuckled. “You’re welcome. I think?”
Behind them, Zee strolled up to Ezekiel, who was walking near the edge of the path, his eyes fixed on the scenery below. “So, future top student, huh?” she teased, nudging him lightly with her elbow. “Do we all get to bow when you take your throne?”
Ezekiel smirked, tilting his head slightly toward her. “You can start practicing now if you want.”
Zee threw her head back with a laugh, her afro shaking with the motion as her voice rang out. "Yeah, let me know how that works out for you."
Ezekiel turned his attention back to the view, his smirk widening. “Won't need to.”
Not far behind the group, Yumiko had struck up a conversation with Rayven, her keen eyes scanning her companion’s outfit with an approving grin. “Alright, I’ve gotta ask,” Yumiko began, gesturing toward Rayven’s boots, “those shoes. Those are Stygian Soles, right? Like the high-end, limited-edition kind that costs enough to make anyone cry. How’d you manage to snag a pair?”
Rayven’s lips quirked into a sly grin as she glanced down at her glossy, chunky black boots, each adorned with subtle silver accents. “Oh, these?” she replied casually, as if they weren’t worth a small fortune. “I just came across some money. Let’s leave it at that.”
Yumiko raised an eyebrow, intrigued but clearly not buying the vague response. “Uh-huh. ‘Came across some money.’ That doesn’t sound sketchy at all.”
“Hey, I didn’t say anything illegal!” Rayven shot back with mock indignation, her grin widening. “What about you, though? You’ve got some serious style yourself, even if you lean more on the sporty side. Those joggers? Custom, I bet.”
Yumiko smirked, tugging at the hem of her loose red jacket. “You know it. I like to keep it functional but clean. Gotta look good while dodging death and all that.”
Rayven chuckled, her dark eyes glinting with amusement. “I respect it. But if we’re being honest, I could totally see you pulling off something edgy—like leather, maybe even spikes. You’d kill it.”
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“Oh, yeah?” Yumiko crossed her arms, leaning in slightly. “I’ll think about it. Maybe next time you’ll let me raid your closet for inspiration. Those nails, though—black with purple swirls and studs? You’re definitely flexing on everyone with those.”
Rayven held up her hands proudly, showing off her nails with a smirk. “Gotta keep the vibe alive. You into nails too, or is it just clothes?”
“Both,” Yumiko admitted with a grin. “But I don’t have the patience to do something that detailed. I’d probably smudge the polish two seconds in.”
Rayven laughed. “Alright, I’ll hook you up sometime. Consider it a deal. I’ll add some studs to yours too—you look like you could use a bit of an edge.”
“Bold of you to assume I’m not edgy already,” Yumiko shot back, her grin challenging.
The two continued their banter, their voices carrying a mix of friendly rivalry and budding camaraderie as the group pressed on toward the main building.
A little farther back, Jean and Arc were walking beside Molly, who clutched Jolly tightly to her chest. Jean hesitated, his usual confidence faltering as he tried to find the right words. Finally, he spoke. “Hey, Molly,” he said softly, his tone uncharacteristically serious. “I just... I wanted to say I think I understand how you feel. If I lost Arc, I’d feel the same way.”
Molly’s grip on Jolly tightened, but she didn’t respond.
Jean glanced at Arc, who gave him a small nod of encouragement. “I know it doesn’t mean much,” he continued, “but... don’t be angry at Ajal. He wasn’t trying to hurt you. He was just—”
“I know,” Molly interrupted, her voice steady but cold. “I know he wasn’t trying to hurt me. But that doesn’t mean I have to forgive him.”
Sosira, walking a few paces ahead, turned her head slightly, her crimson wraps swaying with the motion. “Molly ain’t wrong,” she drawled, her accent thick and unpolished. “Ajal was just doin’ what he had to. But hate’s a funny thing. Once it gets in, it’s mighty hard to let go.”
Molly finally looked up, her eyes meeting Sosira’s. “Exactly,” she said quietly. “I understand why he did it. I do. It doesn't change that I will never forgive him.”
Jean opened his mouth to say something else, but Arc gently placed a hand on his arm, shaking her head. He nodded, letting the conversation end there.
As they walked, the group began to spread out slightly, the natural flow of conversation weaving its way through the students. Cassian, who had been quietly observing Ajal and Vail’s exchange, finally chimed in. “So, Ajal,” he said, walking up beside him, “how does it feel being the center of attention? You’ve got the whole Inheritor thing going for you, after all.” he chuckled awkwardly.
Ajal let out a small laugh. “Honestly? It’s a lot of pressure. I still don't know what exactly an Inheritor is.”
Cassian nodded thoughtfully. “Well, for what it’s worth, you’ve got my vote of confidence. Anyone who can handle Molly and someone else same day is okay in my book.”
Ajal chuckled, glancing over at Molly, who was walking silently a few paces behind them. “Thanks, I think.”
Cassian noticed Ajal’s demeanor and shifted uncomfortably. “Sorry,” he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’m not great at talking to people. I always end up saying the wrong thing.”
Ajal gave him a reassuring pat on the back, gently nudging him forward. “Don’t apologize for being yourself, man.”
Cassian exhaled a small sigh of relief, placing a hand over his chest as if a weight had been lifted. Then, with a faint smile, he slid his hands back into his pockets—not out of shyness this time, but for a sense of ease.
As the path began to curve upward, the students caught their first glimpse of the main building up close. Its towering structure was even more awe-inspiring than it had appeared from the carriages, the intricate architecture blending natural and futuristic elements seamlessly.
Standing at the base of the building were five upperclassmen, their presence commanding attention even from a distance. The figure in the center immediately drew the eye—a girl with jet-black hair that transitioned into shimmering gold at the tips, each strand catching the light like threads of sunlight. Above her head floated a glowing halo, ethereal and captivating, adding an otherworldly air to her already commanding presence. She stood tall, her posture radiating confidence and authority.
The students exchanged glances, a mix of excitement and nervousness buzzing through the air. As they approached the upperclassmen, the conversations quieted, and the weight of the moment began to settle over the group.
“Well,” Lucius said, his voice breaking the silence, “looks like the welcome committee’s here. Try not to embarrass yourselves, kiddos.”
Ajal glanced at his teammates, who were also looking around, each of them exchanging smiles of reassurance. The only exception was Ezekiel, who avoided making eye contact, clearly trying to mask his embarrassment. Zee caught his awkward behavior and couldn’t help but giggle softly.
As the group came to a stop, the atmosphere shifted. The girl with the shimmering halo stepped forward, her eyes scanning the new students like a hawk surveying its prey. Her movements were precise, almost calculated, as if she were assessing their worth with every passing second. When her gaze locked with Ajal's lavender eyes, her expression sharpened, her lips pressing into a thin line. Without hesitation, she strode forward, her sandals clicking softly against the smooth platform until she was mere inches from him.
The tension was electric. Her golden halo seemed to pulse faintly as she reached up with one hand, grabbing it like a weapon. The faint shimmer of light around it grew brighter, hinting at the power she was readying to unleash. Ajal instinctively braced himself, his grip tightening on his scythe.
Before anything could escalate further, two figures moved with practiced speed. The girl with twin braids and a fan at her side grabbed the halo-wielder’s arm firmly, holding her back with a surprising strength. “Ophelia,” she said in a calm but commanding voice, “this is not the time.”
At the same time, a panda-like figure leaped forward with surprising agility, placing himself squarely between Ajal and the halo-wielder. His black shield, strapped securely to his back, shifted slightly as he held out his hands, palms forward. “Whoa, whoa! Everyone take a deep breath! We’re not here to duel, are we?”
Ajal stumbled back a step, more out of surprise than fear, as the panda gave him a quick glance over his shoulder. “Hey, buddy, maybe don’t piss off number one ranked student on your first day?” His tone was lighthearted, but his words carried a note of genuine caution.
The panda-like figure, standing slightly taller than most of the students, was a striking sight. His fur was a vivid contrast of snowy white and jet black, with an intricate pattern of glowing cyan lines tracing up his arms, neck, and around his crimson eyes, almost like veins of energy. The black fur around his eyes extended outward into jagged marks, almost resembling war paint, giving him a playful but fierce edge. His frame was notably lean—almost wiry—his slender figure suggesting speed and agility rather than brute strength. Despite his skinny build, there was an unmistakable precision to his movements, the kind of grace that only came from rigorous training.
Riku’s outfit mirrored the refined elegance of his demeanor. He wore a sleek, high-collared tunic made of crisp white fabric, its surface adorned with intricate red embroidery in swirling patterns that hinted at a culture of artistry and discipline. The design evoked an ancient aesthetic, one that celebrated both beauty and utility in equal measure. The tunic’s seams were fastened with decorative red loops, and its slightly flared hem swayed lightly as he moved. Beneath it, a fitted black undershirt peeked out, paired with black gloves that hugged his slender fingers. A polished silver belt secured his tunic, and strapped to his back was a black shield—simple in design but exuding an aura of quiet strength. The shield shimmered faintly, as if it held secrets far beyond its unassuming appearance.
Tied to his hair was a small red string, holding together a tuft of snowy fur at the side of his head. The string fluttered slightly with his movements, a detail that added a touch of playfulness to his otherwise composed look. His crimson eyes sparkled with mischief, a sharp intelligence lurking beneath the surface.
The girl with twin braids, on the other hand, was an entirely different presence. Her dark navy school uniform seemed traditional at first glance, with its pleated skirt and sailor-style collar, but subtle details set her apart. The sleeves of her uniform were slightly rolled, revealing glimpses of an elaborate tattoo on her forearm, a swirling design of roses and thorns that climbed up to the base of her neck. A closed black fan with silver detailing hung from her waist, clipped securely to her belt. Her glasses framed dark blue eyes, which gave away little emotion, though they carried a quiet authority. Her demeanor was poised, her movements precise as she stood firmly, a picture of calm restraint. Black socks pulled to mid-calf and practical sneakers completed her look, blending tradition with functionality. Despite her composed exterior, there was a quiet steeliness to her presence, an unspoken promise that she was not someone to be underestimated.
The girl with the halo—Ophelia, as the braided one had called her—snapped her gaze to the panda and the braided girl. “Get out of my way,” she demanded, her voice sharp enough to cut glass. The halo in her hand shimmered again, as if ready to obey her command.
The braided girl’s grip on Ophelia’s arm tightened slightly, though her expression remained composed. “No,” she said simply, her voice unyielding. “You’re not doing this. Not here.”
The panda, meanwhile, turned his attention back to Ophelia, leaning slightly closer with a teasing grin. “Come on, Ophi. You’re gonna scare the poor newbies. Let them breathe a little before you flex all that Inheritor power.”
Ophelia’s amber eyes narrowed at him, but after a long, tense moment, the glow of her halo dimmed slightly. With a frustrated sigh, she released the halo, letting it float back into place above her head. “Fine,” she muttered, though the edge in her voice suggested she wasn’t entirely pleased with being restrained.
The braided girl finally let go of Ophelia’s arm, her serene expression unchanging. “Thank you,” she said softly, though whether it was directed at Ophelia or the panda was unclear. She took a step back, her fan swaying lightly at her hip as she moved.
The panda clapped his hands together, the sound breaking the remaining tension like a stone shattering glass. “Alright! Crisis averted! Now, how about some introductions before someone gets vaporized?”
Ophelia shot him a glare but didn’t respond. Instead, she turned on her heel and walked back to the center of the upperclassmen, her golden-lined jacket flaring slightly with the motion. The light of her halo dimmed further, returning to its faint, pulsing glow.
As the tension began to ease, the panda turned back to Ajal, flashing him a friendly grin. “Don’t take it personally, bud. She’s just got a flair for the dramatic.” He extended a hand toward Ajal. “I’m Riku, by the way. Nice to meet ya.”
Ajal hesitated for a moment before shaking Riku’s hand. “Ajal,” he replied, his voice steady despite the chaotic encounter. “Thanks for stepping in.”
“Anytime!” Riku said cheerfully, patting Ajal’s shoulder before stepping back to rejoin the other upperclassmen. The braided girl offered Ajal a brief nod of acknowledgment before following suit, her quiet presence a stark contrast to the chaos that had just unfolded.
Ophelia, now standing at the center of her group once more, glanced back at Ajal one last time. Her amber eyes burned with the same quiet intensity as before, a silent promise that this wasn’t the last time their paths would cross. For now, though, she remained silent, letting the moment pass as the group of upperclassmen waited for the new students to compose themselves.
The group stood in tense anticipation, the five upperclassmen facing them like an impenetrable wall of experience and power. Breaking the silence, the panda-like figure stepped forward, his glowing crimson eyes filled with mischief, and a grin spreading across his face.
"Alright, fresh meat, let’s get started," Riku said, slinging the heavy black shield from his back and planting it upright beside him with an audible thud. The polished surface shimmered faintly, radiating an otherworldly aura. "Name’s Riku. Third-ranked student at this fine academy. My Gift?" He patted the shield proudly. "This bad boy right here lets me become the ultimate defense. Nobody’s getting through me."
Kiera raised an eyebrow, folding her arms. "The hell does that even mean?" she asked, irritation clear in her voice.
Riku just laughed, his sharp teeth glinting as he tilted his head. "Guess you’ll find out someday, huh?"
Kiera’s eye twitched, and her fists clenched at her sides. "Oh, you’re one of those guys, huh? Real helpful," she muttered, already imagining a dozen ways to knock that smug grin off his face.
Ajal, seeing Kiera’s brewing frustration, stepped forward slightly, trying to diffuse the tension. Before he could say anything, the tall boy with short, snow-white hair casually stepped forward, drawing all eyes to him.
"Shallow," the boy said, his voice cool and smooth, his demeanor relaxed but confident. His silvery hair was cut in a textured, slightly messy style, and a small black cross earring dangled from his ear, swaying faintly as he moved. His tan complexion was marked by faint tattoos that crept up his neck and disappeared beneath the collar of his light gray jacket. The jacket itself was loose-fitting, its utility-style design accented with multiple straps and pouches. Paired with tapered cargo pants and thick-soled sneakers, his outfit gave off an effortless streetwear vibe.
He held up his hands, revealing silver rings on each finger, glinting faintly in the light. "Gift’s these rings. Each one holds a different pheromone I can release when I take it off. Mix and match, and you’ve got yourself some pretty wild effects." His lips curved into a sly smirk. "Let’s just say, I can make you feel… whatever I want you to feel."
Yumiko, ever curious, tilted her head. "Whatever you want? Sounds like a party trick."
Shallow gave her an exaggerated wink. "Oh, it’s a party trick, alright. Just hope you’re never on the wrong end of it."
Cassian shifted uncomfortably, muttering, "That’s definitely unsettling."
The braided girl stepped forward next, her dark blue eyes scanning the group with a calculating intensity. "Bellona," she said simply, her voice low and measured, as she rested a hand on the closed fan tucked into her waist. "Second-ranked student. My Gift?" She flicked the fan open in a fluid motion, revealing its jagged black-glass blades that gleamed dangerously. "This isn’t just a fan. These shards are sharper than they look, and I can control them however I want. Shape them, break them apart, send them flying. So, don’t make me lose my patience." Her tone was calm, but the sharp edge to her words made it clear she meant business.
Rayven let out a low whistle. "So, you’re basically a walking blender."
Bellona remained stoic. "Call it what you want. Just stay out of its way."
Before anyone could respond, the cheerful boy in the teal beret practically skipped forward, his wide grin lighting up his face. "Heya! Name’s Marlow," he chirped, giving a small salute. His bright, mismatched eyes—a mesmerizing mix of green and blue—sparkled with excitement. Perched comfortably on his shoulder was a sleek black bird, its beady eyes darting around curiously. The bird let out a soft caw, as if in agreement with its master.
Marlow’s style was just as vibrant as his personality. His teal beret, adorned with feathered embellishments that jutted out dramatically on one side, sat slightly askew on his head. His wavy turquoise hair spilled out from beneath it, framing his freckled face. His layered outfit combined casual comfort with a sense of adventure: a white hoodie with frayed edges peeked out beneath a long green coat, and around his neck hung an assortment of necklaces and charms, each clinking softly with his movements. His dark jeans were held up by a loose, leather belt, and his worn boots were scuffed, evidence of constant activity.
"These little beauties here?" He patted the twin daggers hanging at his sides. "They let me transmute whatever I stab. Turn rock into steel, wood into fire, you get the idea. Pretty useful, huh?"
Ajal raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You’re like a walking alchemy kit?"
"Exactly!" Marlow said, spinning one of the daggers playfully before sheathing it. His gaze flicked to Ajal’s hair, and his grin widened even more. "Hey, quick question. Do all Inheritors have black hair with funky-colored ends? Or is that just you?"
Ajal blinked, caught off guard. "Uh… I don’t know? I’ve never met another Inheritor until now."
Cassian chimed in, crossing his arms thoughtfully. "Now that he mentions it, Ophelia’s hair is kinda similar to yours. Black roots with gold tips."
"Wait, wait, wait," Yumiko interrupted, her eyes wide with surprise. "You mean to tell me that’s not just dyed? I thought the whole dark circles under your eyes thing was makeup too!"
Ajal groaned, "Why does everyone keep saying that?"
Before the teasing could escalate, Ophelia stepped forward, her golden-tipped hair gleaming in the sunlight. Her amber eyes glinted with quiet authority as she addressed Cassian directly, her voice sharp and unyielding. "Watch how you speak about me, Cassian," she warned, her tone laced with cold steel. "You don’t get to talk about me as if we’re equals."
Cassian froze, unsure of how to respond.
Ophelia turned to the rest of the group, standing tall as her golden halo faintly pulsed above her head. "Yes, I am an Inheritor," she declared, her voice clear and commanding. "But don’t make the mistake of thinking I’m anything like him." Her gaze locked onto Ajal, and the disdain in her expression was palpable. "I am Ophelia Everhart, the Inheritor of Life and the number one ranked student at this academy."
The weight of her words settled over the group like a heavy fog, stifling any response. Ajal's expression remained unreadable, though his mind churned. Ophelia... The name tugged at the edges of his memory, a faint echo of familiarity he couldn’t quite place.
Ophelia let the silence linger for a moment before stepping back into line with the others, her golden-lined jacket flowing elegantly with the movement.
"Right! Now comes the fun part where we show you to your dorms—down there!" Riku said, his tone overly delighted as he gestured dramatically toward the forested area below the floating campus. "Just follow us, if you will!"
Shallow let out a quiet laugh, his smirk growing as he turned alongside the rest of the upperclassmen. The laugh was subtle, but Ezekiel picked up on it immediately, narrowing his eyes and staying on edge. Something about this was off.
The students followed in silence, save for the soft hum of Marlow, who seemed completely at ease, hands behind his head as if this were a casual stroll through the park. As the group reached the edge of the floating campus, the new students came to a halt, staring down at the sprawling forest below them.
"Uh…" Jean broke the silence, taking a hesitant step back from the edge. "So, how exactly do we get down there?"
"Easy!" Riku replied, clapping a hand on Jean's back with a grin. "Like this!" With no further warning, Riku shoved Jean off the edge.
Jean's panicked scream filled the air as he plummeted.
"Master Jean!" Arc’s voice rang out, her tone sharp with urgency. She shot Riku a glare that could pierce steel before jumping after Jean without hesitation.
The remaining students froze, their eyes wide with confusion and disbelief. Before Yumiko could voice the obvious question, Ophelia calmly walked up behind her and, with no ceremony, pushed her off the edge. Yumiko's indignant yell trailed as she fell, "WHAT THE—!"
Ajal turned to Ophelia, his mouth halfway open to demand an explanation, but was immediately met with her sandal slamming squarely into his face. "Off you go," she said coolly, sending him hurtling after Yumiko.
Ezekiel spun around, instantly activating his Gift as his glasses transformed into dual pistols. "Alright, that’s enough of—"
Before he could finish, a sudden burst of gas hit him square in the face, rendering his body limp and numb. He staggered back, unable to move.
"Sorry, pal," Shallow said, slipping his rings back onto his fingers. "Can’t have you blowing holes in the campus." With a casual shove, Shallow pushed Ezekiel over the edge as well.
Meanwhile, Marlow, still humming, looked entirely unbothered as the chaos unfolded around him. He turned to Bellona, raising an eyebrow. "Hey, Bellona, did you handle the other two teams yet?"
Bellona, ever composed, adjusted her glasses with a slight push of her finger before giving him a casual thumbs-up. From somewhere in the distance, the fading screams of the remaining exam passers confirmed her success.
Amidst the cacophony of falling students, Kiera’s unmistakable voice rang out. "I’M GOING TO KILL YOU ALL FOR THIS!"
Riku burst into laughter, leaning over the edge to yell after them. "Relax! Didn’t I say I’m the ultimate defense? Trust me!"
With practiced ease, Riku unhooked his shield from his back and hurled it forward in a perfect arc. The black shield cut through the air with precision, curving gracefully toward the group of falling students. As it reached the lowest point of its descent, the shield flipped upside down, glowing brilliantly with an otherworldly blue light. Its size expanded rapidly, morphing into an enormous, rounded surface.
The students screamed in unison as they braced for impact, but instead of crashing into hard ground or even the shield itself, they landed softly. The surface had transformed into something akin to a fluffy cloud, firm enough to support them but with a gentle give that cushioned their fall.
Ajal sat up, disoriented, and pressed his hand against the surface beneath him, his fingers sinking slightly into the cloud-like material. "What… even is this?"
The glow of the shield pulsated faintly as Riku called down from above, his voice carrying an infuriating cheer. "See? I told you! You’re safe with me! Ultimate defense, remember?"
Yumiko rubbed her head, grumbling under her breath as she sat up. "Well, wasn't expecting that."
Jean lay sprawled across the shield’s surface, his eyes spinning comically and his mouth hanging open in exaggerated shock. He groaned weakly and turned his head toward Arc, who had landed gracefully on her feet beside him. "That was so unnecessary," he muttered, his voice wobbling like he’d just been through a whirlwind. "He’s lucky we didn’t die!"
Arc simply adjusted her collar, brushing off imaginary dust as she replied coolly, "Master Jean, composure. You’re alive, and that’s what matters. For now."
Kiera, meanwhile, was still fuming, her arms crossed as she stomped in place. "When we get back up there, someone is getting their ass kicked. I don’t care who."
Vail glanced over at her. "Relax, the only thing that matters right is that we're all ok."
"DO I LOOK OKAY?!" Kiera snapped.
Ezekiel, now regaining feeling in his limbs, sighed heavily. "I should’ve known these people were unhinged. We’ve officially joined the circus."
"Yeah, and they’re the ringmasters," Ajal added dryly, shaking his head as he tried to regain his bearings.
Marlow’s voice chimed in from above, cheerful as ever. "I don’t know, guys. I thought it looked kind of fun. Like a roller coaster, but, y’know, without any of the safety precautions."
Yumiko shot him a glare. "That’s not helping, bird boy."
The black bird on Marlow’s shoulder let out an amused caw, tilting its head as if it were laughing too.
As the glowing shield slowly descended toward the forest below, carrying the students closer to their dorms, Riku stood at the edge of the floating campus above, grinning like a kid who’d just pulled off the prank of the year.
Bellona crossed her arms, her voice calm but firm as she addressed him. "You really enjoy making enemies, don’t you?"
Riku shrugged, his grin widening. "Hey, it builds character."
Shallow chuckled, shaking his head as the upperclassmen turned and walked away, leaving the new students to process their chaotic introduction to life at Arkphis Institute.