The dorms were nothing short of architectural marvels, a seamless blend of the world’s greatest styles, brought together to create a space both luxurious and functional. Each dorm was the size of a sprawling mansion, designed to house the Arknights in comfort and grandeur. Positioned facing the pristine beach of Bulistan, the dorms offered breathtaking views of the tropical coastline, the sound of the waves providing a constant, soothing background.

The exterior of the dorms was an elegant fusion of architectural styles. The domed roofs and intricate tile work were distinctly Kalkan in design, reminiscent of the grand temples and palaces of the region. The walls, however, were made of smooth, polished wood, drawing from the Zaurelias aesthetic, with sliding shoji doors that opened up to balconies overlooking the sea. The windows were tall and narrow, framed with ornate stonework typical of Aurelian architecture, giving the building a stately, almost castle-like appearance. The base of the dorms featured robust stone foundations, inspired by the Butchonsaw style, with carved motifs and patterns that hinted at the rich cultural influence of the region, combining strength and artistry.

As the boys stepped inside, they found themselves in a grand foyer that set the tone for the rest of the dorm. The floors were a polished dark wood, rich and inviting, while the walls were a mix of smooth plaster and exposed beams, creating a balance between warmth and grandeur. The ceilings were high, with hanging lanterns that emitted a soft, ambient light, their design a mix of traditional Kalkan and Aurelian styles. The center of the room featured a grand staircase, spiraling upward with balustrades carved in the Butchonsaw tradition, strong yet intricately detailed.

"Wow, this place is incredible," Aslan murmured, his eyes wide as he took in the grandeur of the foyer.

Angel, ever laid-back, grinned. "It's got style, that's for sure. I could get used to this."

Luis, always with a sharp eye, nodded approvingly as he ran his hand along the banister. "They really went all out. This is where legends are made."

The living area, located on the middle floor, was the heart of the dorm. It was a vast, open space designed for relaxation and camaraderie. A large, low-set table made of dark, polished wood sat in the center, surrounded by plush seating cushions in deep blues and reds, a nod to the Zaurelias aesthetic. The walls were adorned with tapestries and paintings that reflected the diverse cultural influences of the Academy, from detailed Kalkan tile patterns to vivid Butchonsaw landscapes. A large fireplace dominated one wall, its mantel carved with motifs of roaring lions and swirling waves, symbolizing both power and tranquility.

The windows in the living area were expansive, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Each window was framed by heavy curtains, rich in texture and color, ranging from deep purples to crimson reds, adding a regal touch to the room. The space was designed to be both elegant and inviting, a place where the Arknights could gather, plan, or simply relax after a day of training.

"This is where we'll be spending a lot of time," Haru said, stepping into the living area and taking in the view. "It's like a mix of everything from all over the continent."

Luis chuckled. "Yeah, they’ve made sure we don’t forget where we all come from. But this is home now."

Angel flopped down onto one of the cushions, stretching out lazily. "If home is this comfortable, I don’t mind it at all."

Aslan, still a bit nervous, looked around in awe. "I've never seen anything like this. It’s... peaceful."

Haru clapped a hand on Aslan’s shoulder, offering a reassuring smile. "Get used to it. This is where we’ll be building our strength."

As the boys explored further, they found their quarters on the upper floors. The corridor was lined with ten doors, each leading to a private room for one of the Arknights. The hallway itself was adorned with traditional lanterns, casting a warm glow that highlighted the intricate woodwork along the walls and ceiling. Each door was marked with a small, engraved plaque bearing the name of its occupant.

The rooms themselves were a blend of masculine elegance and functional design. The floors were covered in soft, dark carpets that contrasted beautifully with the wooden walls. Each room had a large window that let in plenty of natural light, with curtains in deep, masculine shades of blue, red, or black. The furniture was sturdy yet stylish, with a large bed dominating the space. The bed was dressed in the Academy’s colors—black and white with purple highlights—reflecting the institution’s prestige. A desk and chair sat by the window, perfect for study or reflection, and a small wardrobe offered ample space for the students' belongings.

"Looks like they really thought of everything," Luis said as he opened the door to his room. "It’s got all the essentials and then some."

Haru stepped into his own room, running his fingers along the polished wood of the desk. "They’ve made it clear they expect us to focus and excel. No distractions."

Angel, who had followed them in, leaned against the doorway, grinning. "Speak for yourself. I could get used to this kind of luxury."

The walls of each room were adorned with subtle decorations—perhaps a painting of a serene Kalkan landscape, a piece of calligraphy from the Zaurelias Empire, or a small, intricate tapestry from Aurelian. The ceiling beams were exposed, adding to the room’s rustic charm, while the lighting was soft and adjustable, allowing each Arknight to set the mood to their liking.

Aslan carefully inspected his room, still somewhat in awe. "This is way more than I expected. I feel like I’m in some kind of palace."

Haru smiled at his friend’s awe. "It’s meant to make us feel like kings, but remember, we’re here to train. Don’t let the luxury distract you from the real goal."

As the boys explored their new quarters, they found their school uniforms neatly laid out on their beds. The uniforms were as striking as the dorms themselves—tailored to perfection in black and white fabric, with sharp lines and a sleek design. The purple highlights added a regal touch, making it clear that these were no ordinary students, but the future protectors of the realm. The uniforms exuded an air of authority and sophistication, a constant reminder of the responsibility they bore as Arknights.

Jiro, ever the cheerful companion, had escorted Haru and Luis to their rooms before informing them that he would be staying in the servant’s quarters—a smaller building about a three-minute walk from the main dorm. It was a modest but comfortable space, designed with the same attention to detail as the main dorms, ensuring that even the staff were well taken care of.

"Don’t worry, I’ll be close by if you need anything," Jiro said with a smile. "But it looks like you guys have everything you need here."

Haru nodded, appreciating the thoughtfulness of the Academy’s design. "Thanks, Jiro. We’ll manage, but it’s good to know you’re nearby."

As the boys continued to explore, they couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation building within them. The dorm was more than just a place to sleep—it was a testament to the unity and strength of the Academy, a space where cultures blended seamlessly, and where the future of the world’s defense would be forged.

Haru, feeling the weight of the journey ahead, allowed himself a moment to appreciate the beauty of his surroundings. The blend of architectural styles, the masculine yet elegant design of the rooms, and the view of the endless ocean—all of it served as a reminder of the importance of their mission. As he stood in his room, looking out at the horizon, he couldn’t help but feel a surge of determination. This was where they would grow, where they would face challenges and triumphs, and where they would forge bonds that could withstand anything.

And as he prepared to leave his room to join the others in the living area, he noticed a small, ornate box on his desk. Curious, he opened it to find a finely crafted sword charm—a gift from the Academy, a symbol of the journey he was about to embark on. Haru smiled, attaching it to his uniform as he made his way to join his friends. The future was uncertain, but here, in this beautifully crafted dorm, he knew they were ready for whatever came next.

//////////////

As Haru entered the living room, he noticed the other male Arknights gathering, some standing, others sitting, but all clearly assessing their new peers. Haru, always the one to break the ice, decided it was time to bring everyone together.

"Now that all the show and ceremony are over, how about we do some proper introductions?" Haru suggested with a casual grin, leaning back on one of the sofas.

Blaze, who had been sitting on a counter, looked up with a sharp gaze. "I’m not here to make friends," he stated flatly, his tone dripping with disdain. He hopped off the counter and, without another word, made his way toward the stairs. "You guys can do whatever you want. I’m going to my room."

The atmosphere in the room grew tense after Blaze’s departure. Haru, unfazed, shrugged and turned to the others.

"Well, that’s Blaze for you," Haru remarked with a smirk. "Anyone else want to be a bit more sociable?"

Lawrence, standing with his hands behind his back, stepped forward. "I appreciate the effort, Haru," he said politely, "but I think I’ll follow Blaze’s example and get some rest. We have a big day tomorrow, after all." He gave a courteous nod to the group before heading up the stairs. "Goodnight, everyone."

With Blaze and Lawrence gone, the tension in the room eased slightly. Haru looked around at the remaining Arknights, determined to keep the conversation going.

"So, who’s up first?" Haru asked, settling into his seat.

Aslan, who had been nervously shifting from foot to foot, hesitated before finally speaking up. "I’m Aslan Yusiger. I know I don’t have as much experience as some of you, but I’m here to do my best."

Angel, lounging on a cushion with a relaxed smile, raised a hand in greeting. "Angel Goldstone. I’m here to enjoy the ride and maybe save the world while I’m at it. Let’s see what we’re all made of."

Luis, leaning against the wall with his usual air of confidence, chimed in next. "Luis Tadashima. You all know the name. I’m here to make sure our family’s legacy stays strong, and I’m curious to see what you all bring to the table."

Matteo Amador, who had been observing quietly, finally spoke. "Matteo Amador. My twin sister and I are both here to make our mark. I look forward to seeing how we all push each other."

Azrael, sitting quietly with his black cat curled up in his lap, looked up with his usual innocent expression. "I’m Azrael. I just want to help make the world a better place."

Callus Imanov, standing with a calm, composed demeanor, finally spoke up. "Callus Imanov. I’m here to win, but I know strength isn’t everything. I’m looking forward to learning from all of you."

Enri Volkanov, who had been fidgeting slightly, grinned as he introduced himself. "Enri Volkanov. I’m here to have some fun, maybe cause a little chaos, but I’m serious about becoming a better Arknight."

With the introductions complete, Haru nodded, satisfied with how things were shaping up. "Good to know we’ve got a mix of personalities here. Makes things interesting."

The conversation then shifted naturally to the topic that was on everyone’s mind: the new ranking system.

"That ranking system is going to shake things up," Callus commented, his tone thoughtful. "It’s going to put a lot of pressure on us to perform right from the start."

"Yeah," Enri agreed, leaning forward. "It’s not just about being strong anymore. We’re going to be judged on everything—our skills, our strategies, our results. It’s going to be tough."

Luis nodded, a smirk playing on his lips. "It’s going to separate the best from the rest. We’ll see who can handle the pressure and who crumbles."

Aslan, still nervous, asked, "What happens if we rank low?"

Haru leaned back, crossing his arms as he considered the question. "From what they said, our ranking is going to affect everything—our rooms, our resources, and our opportunities. If you rank low... well, let’s just say it won’t be easy."

Angel shrugged, his usual optimism shining through. "Guess we’ll just have to make sure we stay on top, then."

Matteo nodded. "This ranking system is going to push us harder, but it’ll also make us stronger. We’ll have to keep improving if we want to stay ahead."

Azrael, still petting his cat, spoke up softly. "We’ll just have to support each other, too. It’s not just about competing; it’s about growing together."

Haru looked around at the group, feeling a sense of determination growing among them. "We’ve got a long road ahead, but we’ll get through it. Together, we’ll push each other to be the best."

The conversation continued as they discussed strategies, potential challenges, and what lay ahead at the Academy. The group was beginning to form bonds that would be tested in the days to come, but for now, they were united in their determination to succeed.

//////////////

In the other dorm, the atmosphere was markedly different. The girls’ dormitory, with its interior styled in a combination of pink, black, and white, radiated a sense of elegance and sophistication. The new school uniforms for the girls, neatly laid out on their beds, featured the same black, white, and purple highlights as the boys’, but with a distinct, feminine design tailored to their form.

Aurora and Emma, who had quickly struck up a rapport, decided to explore the dorm together. The two moved through the space with a mix of curiosity and confidence, their camaraderie evident in the way they exchanged comments about the decor and amenities.

"This place is nice," Emma remarked, running a hand along the smooth surface of a kitchen counter. "It’s got a bit more flair than I expected."

Aurora nodded, her eyes scanning the surroundings. "Definitely. It’s got character, that’s for sure. I think we’ll be quite comfortable here."

The two of them eventually made their way to the patio, where the other girls had already gathered. The group of ten young women was a stark contrast to the boys in their dorm. There was no hesitation or awkwardness among them; each girl held herself with confidence as they began introducing themselves.

As they sat down together, a sense of camaraderie quickly developed. Elif, with her ever-present energy, was the first to break the ice. "You know," she said, her voice carrying a hint of playfulness, "the audience always seems more hyped up for the boys. But I think it’s up to us to show them that we’re just as good—if not better."

The others nodded in agreement, their competitive spirits ignited by Elif's words. "Exactly," Aurora chimed in, her tone determined. "We may not have the same physical power as some of the guys, but we have our own strengths. And we’re going to prove it."

Emma grinned, leaning back in her chair. "This year is going to be interesting, that’s for sure. We’ve got a lot to prove, but we’re more than capable."

As the girls settled into their seats on the patio, Saki leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "We’ve all got a lot of experience between us," she said. "Why don’t we share some of our best stories? I’m always interested in hearing how others handle Breachers."

Elif was the first to jump in, her energy contagious. "Oh, I’ve got one!" she began, her voice lively. "Back home, I was chasing this Breacher through the forests. It was fast, but I was faster. I had to keep darting through the trees, almost like I was flying. It was all about outmaneuvering it. In the end, I caught up, and with one swift strike, I took it down." She mimicked the action, slicing through the air with her hand, and grinned at the group.

Emma leaned back with a knowing smile. "Impressive, Elif. But let me tell you about a time when I had to face a Breacher in the middle of a storm. The wind was howling, trees bending under the pressure, and this Breacher thought it could take me on. I summoned the wind, created a vortex, and it didn’t stand a chance. The wind was my ally, and I used it to trap and crush the creature before it even knew what hit it." She finished with a satisfied smile, clearly pleased with her own cleverness.

Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.

Aurora nodded appreciatively. "That’s some serious control. I had to deal with one in the tundras. It was trying to blend in with the snow, thinking it could escape. But I was patient. I waited, tracked it carefully, and when the time was right, I froze it solid. It was as good as done once I got a hold of it." Her tone was calm, her confidence evident in every word.

Luella, who had been quietly listening, spoke up next. "My approach is a little different," she said softly. "I encountered a Breacher in a dense forest, and instead of confronting it head-on, I used my Flower abilities to create a trap. Vines and blossoms grew around it, slowly tightening their grip. It was all about patience, letting nature do the work." She glanced around, her modesty clear, but there was pride in her voice.

Saki smirked slightly, looking at her cousin Junko before adding, "With our abilities, it’s all about precision. Once, Junko and I cornered a Breacher by teleporting around it. Junko created clones to confuse it while I kept it in check with teleportation. It was so overwhelmed that it practically defeated itself." The stoic expression on Junko’s face remained, but Saki’s satisfaction was evident in her voice as she recounted their strategy.

The stories continued, with each girl contributing her own experiences. When the conversation paused, Yue spoke up, her voice quieter than the others. "I don’t have any stories like that," she admitted. "As a princess, I was always protected. I’ve trained, but I’ve never faced a real Breacher."

Autumn nodded, her soft voice adding to the conversation. "I’ve been in similar situations. My abilities are more about calming and healing than fighting. I’ve never really had to face a Breacher in battle."

The group was silent for a moment before Elif, ever the optimist, chimed in. "That’s okay! We’re all here to grow and learn. You’ll both get your chances, and when you do, you’ll have all of us to back you up."

Aurora nodded in agreement, her tone gentle. "We’re not just here to prove ourselves; we’re here to learn. We’ve all got different strengths, and we’ll need every one of them."

Emma leaned forward, a playful grin on her face. "Besides, Yue, dealing with court politics is probably harder than fighting a Breacher. I’d rather face a monster any day."

Saki, ever the strategist, added, "It’s true. We’ll all be learning from each other, and that’s what’s going to make us strong. The real test is how we grow together."

Ashelyn, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "We’re all here for a reason. Everyone has something to contribute, whether it’s battle experience or something else. The important thing is that we’re a team now, and we’re going to need each other."

Penelope, who had been listening closely, nodded. "We all have our roles to play. I’ve helped protect people with my Energy abilities, but I’m ready to learn more and contribute however I can."

The camaraderie among them grew as they shared their stories and thoughts. The conversation naturally shifted to the upcoming ranking system, with Emma’s competitive spirit shining through.

"So, what do you all think about the new ranking system?" Emma asked, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "I love a good challenge, and it’s going to push us all to be at our best."

Aurora nodded thoughtfully. "It’s definitely going to add another layer of competition, but it could be good for us. It’ll keep us motivated."

Saki, always practical, added, "It’s going to be tough, but it’ll show us where we stand and what we need to work on. I’m looking forward to seeing how we all grow from this."

Ashelyn agreed, her tone firm. "Rankings will push us to be better, but we can’t lose sight of the bigger picture. We’re here to become the best Arknights we can be, not just for ourselves, but for each other."

As the night wore on, the girls continued to share their thoughts and experiences, the bonds between them growing stronger. Despite the competition and challenges ahead, it was clear that they were ready to face them together as a united team.

//////////////

That night, Haru decided to meditate, seeking the calm and clarity that had always come to him through this practice. He settled into his usual position, legs crossed and hands resting on his knees, his eyes closing as he drew in a deep, steady breath. As the outside world faded away, his mind began to quiet, focusing solely on the rhythmic rise and fall of his chest.

He began the usual steps of his meditation, grounding himself in the present, feeling the coolness of the night air and the firm support of the ground beneath him. As he deepened his focus, memories started to drift into his consciousness, almost unbidden, pulling him back into the past. It began with familiar scenes—the dusty roads of Bethel, the small, close-knit village where he had spent much of his childhood.

But tonight, the memories came with a vividness that startled him. He saw himself as a young boy, running through the village streets, his small legs kicking up dust as he tried to keep up with the other children. The image shifted, and he was standing on the outskirts of a group, his skin darker than the others, feeling the sting of their taunts. He remembered the confusion, the hurt, as they mocked him for being different, for not quite fitting in. The isolation had been palpable, a loneliness that he hadn’t fully understood back then.

The scene faded, and another took its place. Haru saw his mother, Saori, her face lined with worry as she sat alone in their small home. He had seen her like this before, but tonight, the memory carried the weight of her silent struggles. He remembered the way she would wipe away her tears when she thought he wasn’t looking, the way she always tried to smile for him, even when her heart was heavy. He could feel her presence now, almost as if she were walking beside him through these memories, guiding him, comforting him with the strength of her love.

But there was more. Tonight, the memories also brought with them the image of a man—his father. Haru had only fleeting memories of him, but now they came rushing back, clearer than they had been in years. He saw himself as a very young child, cradled in his father’s strong arms, feeling the warmth and security of being held close. His father’s face, usually so stern in his mind’s eye, was softened with love and pride. Haru remembered the feeling of being hugged tightly, of being loved by a man who, for a brief time, had been his world.

The images shifted again, and this time, Haru saw Luis and Peso, his brothers, as young boys. He saw himself playing with them, their laughter echoing in his ears. The three of them were close then, before the world grew more complicated, before the weight of expectations and the realities of their family’s legacy began to press down on them. There was a simplicity in those memories, a time when they were just children, unaware of the burdens they would one day carry.

As Haru moved through these memories, the pain of his past mingled with the warmth of the love he had once known. He saw the times his mother had comforted him after being bullied, her soft voice telling him that he was special, that his differences made him strong. He saw his father holding him, saw the love in his eyes, even if it was a love that had to be left behind. He felt the bond he had shared with his brothers, a bond that had been strained but never fully broken.

Haru continued to meditate, letting these memories wash over him. He could sense the presence of his mother, her spirit somehow intertwined with his own, guiding him to a place of peace. He could feel the immaturity of his younger self, the boy who had been hurt and confused, but he also felt the strength that had grown within him over the years. He had found a way to reclaim that peace, to hold onto the love that had been given to him, even in the face of loss and pain.

As he meditated, Haru found that inner tranquility, the calm that came from understanding and accepting his past. The memories no longer brought him pain; instead, they filled him with a sense of purpose, a reminder of where he had come from and what he was capable of. He felt the weight of his family’s legacy, but also the strength that came from being part of something larger than himself.

Finally, as the meditation drew to a close, Haru opened his eyes, the tranquility of his inner world lingering as he prepared for the next day. He knew that the journey ahead would be challenging, but he was ready to face it, grounded in the love and strength that had shaped him. As he lay down to sleep, he carried with him the peace he had found, knowing that it would guide him through whatever was to come.

As Haru drifted into sleep, his mind settled into a deep, peaceful state. The familiar calm of his meditation carried over, guiding him into a dreamlike realm where the boundaries of reality and consciousness blurred. In this space, Haru found himself standing in a vast, serene landscape, bathed in a soft, ethereal light. The air around him was warm and comforting, filled with a sense of quiet purpose.

From the distance, Haru saw a figure approaching, and as the figure drew nearer, he recognized him immediately. It was Yohei, the one who had guided him, the being who had become both his mentor and his source of strength. Yohei walked with a gentle, yet commanding presence, his face showing a warm smile that held both wisdom and affection.

"Haru," Yohei greeted him, his voice calm and resonant. "I am proud of you for how you have represented yourself so far. As I have instructed, you have consistently shown your resolve, and I am pleased with your progress."

Haru felt a deep sense of gratitude welling up inside him. "Thank you, my lord and savior," he said, bowing his head in reverence. "I am honored by your words. Your guidance has been my strength."

Yohei placed a reassuring hand on Haru's shoulder, his gaze steady and kind. "You have done well, Haru, but there is still more to be done. Continue to have faith in me and in the path that lies ahead."

Haru looked up at Yohei, his eyes filled with both determination and a quiet plea for direction. "Is there any more guidance you can offer me for the coming days? I want to do everything in my power to fulfill the destiny you have laid out for me."

Yohei nodded, understanding the weight of Haru's request. "Yes, there is more you must do. You must become bolder in your speaking, Haru. Become the man who unifies your classroom. If you are to reach the greatest heights and achieve your destiny, you must see your peers not as rivals, but as allies. Bring them together as a group, even if many of them see you as competition. Your strength lies not only in your power but in your ability to inspire and lead others."

Haru listened intently, absorbing each word. He knew that Yohei's advice was crucial to his journey. But as Yohei spoke, a lingering doubt tugged at Haru's mind, a doubt that centered around one particular person.

"And what about Aurora?" Haru asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "I'm struggling with the regret I feel when I'm around her. I'm not sure how to move past it."

Yohei's expression softened, and he nodded in understanding. "Aurora is part of your journey, Haru, and you must face your feelings head-on. To unify your peers, you must also reconcile with your past. Let go of the regret, and see her as she is now, not as a symbol of what was. You cannot move forward if you are held back by what is behind you."

Haru took a deep breath, letting Yohei's words sink in. He knew that facing Aurora, and his feelings about her, would not be easy, but he also knew that it was necessary. "I understand," he said, finally. "I will do my best to unify the class and to let go of my past with Aurora."

Yohei smiled, his pride in Haru evident. "You are on the right path, Haru. Continue what you are doing, and all will come to fruition as promised."

With that, Yohei embraced Haru in a warm, reassuring hug. Haru felt the weight of his mentor's trust and confidence in him, and it filled him with renewed determination. As Yohei stepped back, he gave Haru one last encouraging look before fading into the ethereal light, leaving Haru with a sense of purpose and calm.

When Haru finally awoke, he felt more centered and focused than he had in days. The words of Yohei resonated within him, and he knew that the days ahead would be challenging, but he was ready to face them. He was ready to take the next step toward his destiny.

The next day, the sun barely peeked over the horizon as the Arknights began to stir from their beds, each of them preparing for the first official day at the Academy. The night before, they had received detailed manuals outlining their schedules, expectations, and the rules they were to follow. Among the rules was the stipulation that all meals, except for snacks, would be provided on campus by private chefs, so their primary responsibility each morning was simply to be up, dressed, and ready to depart by 7 a.m. sharp.

As the time approached, all the male Arknights were gathered and ready, except for one predictable exception—Angel Goldstone. The others, including Luis, Aslan, and Haru, had anticipated this and were already laughing it off, making light of the situation.

"I knew it," Luis chuckled, shaking his head. "The guy just can’t keep track of time, can he?"

Aslan smiled, glancing back toward the dorm. "I bet he's still trying to figure out what to wear."

Haru joined in with a grin, adding, "Or maybe he’s just doing some mid-morning aerial yoga."

Despite the teasing, there was no real malice in their words. They had quickly grown accustomed to Angel's laid-back demeanor and his casual approach to life. They knew he would find his own way to the Academy.

Jiro, who was waiting outside the dorm alongside a few other servants, looked slightly concerned at the delay. The carriages, waiting nearby, were ready to go, the raptors in front of them standing patiently as the rest of the boys made their way outside.

"Should we wait for him?" Jiro asked, his tone courteous as always, but with a hint of uncertainty.

Luis waved it off with a laugh. "Nah, he’ll catch up. He said he’d fly there anyway."

Haru nodded in agreement, giving Jiro a reassuring pat on the back. "Yeah, no worries. Angel does things his own way. Let’s get going."

With that, the Arknights began to file into the carriages, greeting each other with varying levels of enthusiasm. A chorus of "good mornings" filled the air, though Blaze, true to his nature, only acknowledged Azrael with a curt nod, ignoring the others.

The carriages were spacious and comfortable, designed to ensure the Arknights would arrive at the Academy both relaxed and prepared. As they settled in for the 15-minute journey, the mood was generally light, filled with a mix of anticipation and camaraderie.

"I wonder how the girls are doing," Aslan mused, looking out the window as the carriage started to move.

"They’re probably getting on just fine," Haru replied, though he couldn’t help but think about Aurora. He quickly pushed the thought aside, focusing instead on the day ahead.

The two dorms were not allowed to co-mingle outside of the Academy, a rule clearly stated in the manual. It was designed to keep distractions to a minimum and ensure that the students remained focused on their training. Despite this, there was an underlying curiosity among the boys about how the girls were adjusting, especially after the grand introductions the day before.

The carriages rolled forward, the raptors leading the way with smooth, powerful strides. The morning air was crisp and cool, a perfect start to what promised to be an intense and exciting day. As they made their way toward the Academy, the conversations within the carriage began to shift, the boys discussing what they expected from their first day, the upcoming tournaments, and, of course, the new ranking system that had everyone both intrigued and on edge.

As the carriages rolled onto the vast grounds of the Academy, the students were greeted by the sight of a grand university campus, a sprawling expanse that seemed to embody the architectural elegance of the United Kingdom of Aurelian, blended harmoniously with the distinct cultural flair of the Kalkan Federation. The buildings were tall and regal, constructed with intricate stonework that displayed a mix of Gothic spires and domes reminiscent of the grand temples found throughout Kalkan. The stone was a mix of white marble and deep grey granite, adorned with delicate carvings and patterns that spoke of centuries of history and tradition.

As the carriages passed through the main university grounds, students from all corners of the Empire could be seen bustling about, some craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the Arknights. Among the crowd, several young women stood out, clearly trying to catch the attention of the legendary students who had arrived, with Luis Tadashima being the primary focus of their adoration. They giggled and whispered, some waving and others boldly calling out to him. Luis, ever the charmer, acknowledged them with a polite smile and a nod, causing a few of them to swoon in delight.

The university campus was breathtaking in its design. The Aurelian influence was evident in the grand archways, towering columns, and majestic courtyards. However, the Kalkan twist came through in the vibrant mosaics that decorated the walls, depicting scenes of ancient battles and mythical creatures. The rooftops were adorned with golden crescents, and the gardens were meticulously arranged, filled with exotic flora from the Federation's rich lands.

But as grand as the university was, it was only the prelude to the true heart of their journey—the Arknights Academy. Set apart from the main university, the Academy was even larger, an imposing fortress of learning and training that loomed behind the rest of the campus. The carriages made their way to the entrance of this hallowed ground, where a set of massive iron gates stood tall and unyielding, guarding the path to greatness.

As the Arknights exited their carriages, they were immediately drawn to the six colossal statues that flanked the entrance, each one the size of a house and carved with incredible detail. These statues depicted the six great legends of the Arknights, figures whose deeds had shaped the world they now lived in.

The first statue was that of **Zane the Conqueror Arknight**. He stood with his back turned, holding a massive dual-sided sword that rested on the ground behind him. His face was blank, expressionless, a reminder of the cold, relentless force he had been. The statue captured the essence of a warrior who had fought with an unparalleled ferocity, his gaze forever fixed on the unseen enemies behind him.

Next to Zane was **Gareth Goldstone, the Hunter Arknight**. His statue depicted him in mid-motion, drawing an arrow from a quiver, his bowstring pulled taut. His eyes, sharp and focused, seemed to peer into the distance, ever watchful and ready to strike. The detail of his armor and the intricacy of his bow were a testament to his skill and precision as a warrior.

On the other side stood **Samson Imalova, the Supreme Arknight**. His statue was one of raw power, his massive form radiating strength. Samson was shown with his arms crossed over his chest, his muscles rippling beneath his stone-carved skin. His face bore a look of unwavering determination, a reminder of the might that had made him the strongest Arknight of his time.

Beside Samson was **Ali-Solomon Demir, the Wisdom Arknight**, the founder of the very Academy they now stood before. His statue depicted him in a flowing robe, one hand extended as if in offering, the other holding a tome of knowledge. His eyes were gentle yet wise, and his expression was one of calm authority. The detail of the tome, with its intricate symbols and ancient writing, highlighted his role as the architect of the Arknights' knowledge and training.

The last two statues were no less impressive. **The Ocean Arknight, Yusei Subaru**, was shown in a stance of fluidity, his form almost appearing to move as the stone rippled like waves. His expression was serene, embodying the calm before the storm, and the details of his armor, adorned with seashell motifs and wave-like patterns, spoke of his dominion over the seas.

Finally, there was the statue of **Reikou Tadashima, the Sun Arknight**. He was depicted with his sword raised high, his face turned toward the sky as if calling down the power of the sun itself. His armor gleamed with carved rays of sunlight, and his stance was one of pure dominance, embodying the might of the Tadashima household.

The six statues formed a path leading through a beautiful garden, a trail that guided the Arknights toward the main building of the Academy. The garden itself was a marvel, filled with vibrant flowers, carefully pruned trees, and flowing fountains that added a sense of tranquility to the otherwise imposing scene. The air was fragrant with the scent of blooming jasmine and roses, mingling with the cool, crisp air of the morning.

As they walked along this path, the Arknights couldn't help but feel the weight of history and expectation pressing down on them. They were following in the footsteps of legends, and the journey ahead was daunting. Yet, there was also a sense of excitement, a burning desire to carve their own names into the annals of history.

The main building of the Academy loomed ahead, its grand facade reflecting the same mix of Aurelian and Kalkan architecture that they had seen on the university campus. Towering spires, intricate carvings, and vast windows dominated the structure, giving it a majestic yet mysterious appearance. It was a place of learning, of power, and of destiny.

As the Arknights reached the entrance, they exchanged glances, each of them silently acknowledging the path they had chosen. Together, they would step through these gates and into a future that promised greatness, challenges, and the chance to become legends themselves.