The night sky over Bulistan was alive with excitement, the air electric with anticipation. The city’s Grand Arena, known as the Sultan’s Coliseum, stood as a towering monument to the city’s architectural prowess, an awe-inspiring marvel that could seat at least 400,000 people. It was said that no matter where you sat in the arena, you could see everything that happened on the colossal stage, a testament to the genius of its design.
The arena was an immense oval structure, its walls soaring high into the night, with intricately carved stone arches that supported the massive roof. The seats, arranged in perfect tiers, seemed to go on forever, a sea of eager faces, each one turned toward the center of the arena. The seating was designed with an ingenious precision, ensuring that even those in the highest rows could see the events unfold, if not in detail, then in clear enough view to feel the impact of the spectacle below. The stands were filled to the brim, with not a single empty seat in sight. Every corner of the continent had sent its best and brightest to witness this momentous occasion.
The highest-ranking nobles and royals from across the realm were present, adorned in their finest attire, each one a picture of wealth and power. Their presence added to the gravity of the event, their expressions ranging from curious to expectant as they awaited the introduction of the new class of Arknights. Among them were the most famous influencers of the age—not just politicians and military leaders, but artists whose works had inspired generations, architects whose buildings had become the very fabric of cities, philosophers whose words shaped the thoughts of nations, and inventors whose creations had revolutionized the world.
Near the front rows, where the air was thick with the mingling scents of perfumes and the tension of the elite, sat the Arknights who protected the continent. Their armor gleamed under the light of the torches that lined the arena, their eyes sharp and watchful. These were the warriors who had faced the Breachers, who had seen the horrors of battle, and now, they were here to assess the new generation that would one day stand beside them—or perhaps replace them.
But the spectacle wasn’t confined to the arena alone. Across the entire continent, people were watching the event unfold in real-time, thanks to an invention of the Inventor Arknight, a legendary figure whose genius had brought the world a marvel of technology. In the sky above every town and city, a massive screen of light was projected, displaying the proceedings as clearly as if they were happening right before the viewers’ eyes. The invention had made it possible for every person, no matter how far from Bulistan, to witness this historic night.
In the small, humble town of Bethel, far from the grandeur of Bulistan, Haru’s mother, Saori, stood in front of her modest home, her eyes fixed on the screen above. The light from the display cast a gentle glow on her face, pride swelling in her chest as she watched, knowing that her son was about to step into a world far greater than she could have ever imagined.
In a grand mansion in Flanagan, Aslan’s mother watched with a mixture of intrigue and anxiety. The grandeur of the event was overwhelming, but her thoughts were focused on her son, the shy boy who had so much potential. She wondered how he would fare in a world so different from the one he had known.
In the streets of Flanagan and Bulistan, people had gathered in throngs, their faces turned to the sky, eyes wide with awe as they watched the display above. The energy of the crowd was palpable, a shared excitement that rippled through the streets like a living thing. Parades filled the avenues, music and cheers echoing off the ancient stones as the people celebrated the beginning of a new chapter in their history.
And in the center of it all, in the heart of the Sultan’s Coliseum, the stage was set for the grand introduction of the next class of Arknights. The arena, usually a place of combat and displays of power, had been transformed into a ceremonial ground, its floor adorned with symbols and sigils that represented the various schools of the Arknights. Torches blazed at intervals, their flames flickering in the night air, casting long shadows across the stone.
The roar of the crowd grew louder as the time for the introduction approached. The air was thick with anticipation, each person in the arena and those watching from afar waiting with bated breath. This was the moment they had all come to witness—the unveiling of the future protectors of the continent, the warriors who would face the Breacher threat and carry the hopes of nations on their shoulders.
And then, as the excitement reached its peak, the arena fell silent. The massive screen in the sky focused, the lights in the arena dimmed, and all eyes turned to the centre of the stage. It was time. The grand introduction was about to begin.
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The crowd in the Sultan’s Coliseum was buzzing with anticipation, the sheer energy in the air almost palpable. The arena, packed to the brim with onlookers from every corner of the continent, suddenly quieted as a man of formidable presence stepped forward into the center of the grand stage. His voice, deep and resonant, carried effortlessly across the vast space, amplified by the natural acoustics of the arena and the attention of every soul present.
"Ladies and gentlemen, nobles and royals, esteemed guests from across the realm," the Announcer began, his voice echoing through the arena and across the skies where millions watched. He paused, letting the silence stretch for a moment before he continued, "First, let us offer our deepest gratitude to the benevolent and wise Sultan Mehmet, under whose protection and vision this grand event is possible!" The crowd erupted into cheers, a wave of noise that rolled across the arena and out into the streets.
With the formalities observed, the Announcer shifted his tone, preparing to delve into the history that defined their world. "For centuries," he bellowed, "this realm has been protected by the Arknights—warriors blessed with extraordinary gifts, bestowed upon them to stand against the abominations that plague our lands: the Breachers!" His words seemed to hang in the air, the mere mention of the Breachers sending a ripple of tension through the crowd.
"But who are the Arknights?" the Announcer asked rhetorically, his voice rising in intensity. "They are more than mere warriors. They are the shield that guards our realm, the sword that strikes down those who would see it fall. They are the embodiment of our hopes, our will to survive, our determination to prevail against the darkness that seeks to consume us!"
The audience was enraptured, hanging on every word. "Here, in this very city of Bulistan, only 280 years ago, a new chapter in the history of the Arknights was written. After the tragic death of Zane the Conqueror Arknight—whose power was both unmatched and untamed—Ali-Solomon Demir, the legendary Wisdom Arknight, founded the Arknights Academy. This was a place where the next generation of Arknights could be trained, where they could learn to harness their gifts, and where they could prepare to face the threats that had claimed so many before them."
The Announcer’s voice softened slightly, becoming more solemn as he continued, "It was here, in the aftermath of Zane’s rampage—a rampage that left a scar on our world—that Demir resolved to ensure such a tragedy would never happen again. To prevent the untamed power of the Arknights from becoming a threat to the very world they swore to protect. To this day, the Arknights Academy stands as a beacon of hope and a fortress of strength."
He then began to recount the names that had become legend, each name bringing cheers from different sections of the crowd. "From these hallowed halls have emerged some of the greatest Arknights our world has ever seen. Gareth Goldstone, the Hunter Arknight from the United Kingdom of Aurelian!" The crowd from Aurelian erupted in cheers, their pride and joy evident as they roared for their legendary hero.
"And who can forget Samson Imalova, the Supreme Arknight, whose unmatched strength and indomitable will have become the very essence of the Butchonsaw Republic?" The people from the Butchonsaw Republic responded with their traditional celebrations—chants, dances, and the rhythmic stamping of feet that shook the very ground, filling the air with an infectious energy that spread through the arena like wildfire.
The Announcer paused, letting the cheers wash over him before he prepared to introduce the present-day legends. "But tonight," he continued, his voice lowering to a dramatic tone, "we also honor two of the greatest Arknights still living among us. The pillars of our world, the mightiest of the last generation. First, I present to you Reikou Tadashima, the Sun Arknight of the Zaurelias Empire!"
Spotlights swung around and locked onto a single figure in the crowd. Reikou Tadashima stood tall, his presence dominating the space around him. His armor, a masterpiece of gold and intricate designs, shimmered in the light. The armor seemed to radiate power, with sun motifs carved into the metal, symbols of his immense strength and his title as the Sun Arknight. His long, dark hair was pulled back, and his sharp, piercing eyes scanned the arena with a look that was both intimidating and awe-inspiring. His jaw was set in a stern expression, the very embodiment of a warrior who bore the weight of the world on his shoulders. The crowd fell silent, not out of disrespect, but in sheer awe of his presence, as if his very aura commanded reverence.
"And now," the Announcer continued, "I present to you Yusei Subaru, the Ocean Arknight of the Zaurelias Empire!" Another spotlight found Yusei in the crowd. Unlike Reikou, Yusei waved and smiled casually at the audience, his demeanor relaxed and carefree. His ocean-blue armor, adorned with symbols of waves and sea creatures, reflected his connection to the elemental power he commanded. His long, dark hair flowed freely, and his easygoing smile contrasted sharply with Reikou’s sternness. Yusei’s presence was no less powerful, but it was the power of a man who knew his strength and saw no need to flaunt it—his confidence was as deep and unfathomable as the ocean itself.
The crowd cheered once more, their excitement renewed by the appearance of these two legends. As the applause echoed through the arena, the Announcer raised his arms, calling for silence once again. "These Arknights, these legends, stand as testament to the strength, honor, and dedication that all Arknights must strive to uphold. And tonight, we welcome the next generation who will carry this legacy forward. Prepare yourselves, for tonight, you will witness the beginning of a new era!"
With those words, the stage was set, and the arena once again filled with anticipation as the crowd awaited the grand introduction of the new class of Arknights.
As the crowd's applause echoed through the Grand Arena, the Announcer, a tall and distinguished man with a commanding presence, stepped forward once more. His name was Levi Atramov, a figure well-known across the realm for his captivating oratory and deep, resonant voice. He allowed the excitement to build for just a moment longer before raising his hand to quiet the audience.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Levi began, his voice carrying across the vast expanse of the arena, "before we proceed with the grand introduction of the new generation of Arknights, I wish for you to witness a performance that will transport you to a realm of beauty and emotion. Please welcome to the stage, the Great Siren of Kalkan, the one who has enchanted the hearts of many across our empire—Autumn Yaz!"
The spotlight shifted to the stage as a young woman stepped forward, drawing the eyes of every person in the arena. Autumn Yaz was a vision of delicate beauty, her presence both graceful and commanding. She stood quite short for a young woman at 155cm but her posture straight and elegant. Her hair was a soft, almost ethereal shade of blonde, loosely gathered into a messy bun that allowed a few wisps to frame her face. Her skin was fair, with a subtle, natural glow that seemed to catch the light just right. Her eyes were a deep, soulful brown, exuding a sense of calm and warmth, yet with a depth that hinted at untold stories.
In her hands, she cradled a finely crafted violin, its wood polished to a gleaming finish. The instrument seemed to be an extension of her, as if it were an integral part of her very being. She wore a simple yet elegant dress in soft, muted tones that complemented her gentle beauty, the fabric flowing around her as she moved with a quiet grace.
Beside her, a small ensemble of musicians took their places, each holding an instrument that added to the harmony of the performance. Harps, pianos, and other classical instruments were prepared, their players ready to accompany Autumn in her song. In her other hand, Autumn held a device, an invention of the renowned Inventor Arknight, a piece of technology known as the "Vocal Relic." This device, though rudimentary compared to modern innovations, amplified her voice in a way that allowed it to carry across the entire arena, ensuring that no one would miss a single note.
Autumn took a seat on a simple stool placed at the center of the stage, her posture relaxed yet poised. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes for a brief moment, and then began to play her violin. The first notes drifted through the air, soft and haunting, immediately capturing the attention of the audience. Her fingers moved effortlessly across the strings, each note resonating with a clarity that was almost otherworldly.
Then, she began to sing, her voice blending seamlessly with the music. The song was titled "Valiant Saviours," a tribute to the Arknights who had protected the realm for generations. As her voice soared through the arena, it carried with it a melody that was both powerful and serene. The music transported the audience to another realm, a place where courage and sacrifice were revered, where the struggles of the past were honored, and where hope for the future was kindled in every heart.
Those who were not from Kalkan, unfamiliar with the enchanting quality of Autumn's voice, whispered in awe at the sheer beauty of the performance. Her voice was like a gentle breeze, soft yet strong, caressing the souls of those who listened, filling them with a profound sense of peace and reverence.
As the final notes of the song echoed and faded into silence, the arena was still, the audience held captive by the lingering magic of her voice. Autumn slowly stood, her violin held at her side as she took a deep, graceful bow. The crowd erupted into applause, a thunderous wave of appreciation for the incredible performance they had just witnessed.
Levi Atramov, who had been momentarily lost in the beauty of the song, regained his composure with a slight cough and stepped forward again. "Thank you, Autumn Yaz, for that breathtaking performance," he said, his voice sincere. "But there is more to Autumn than just her incredible talent. Before you stands an Arknight, not just any musician, but the Melody Arknight, whose music can bring both Peace and Chaos. She is the first of our New Generation of Arknights!"
The crowd’s applause intensified, and even the highest nobles found themselves captivated by the revelation. Murmurs spread through the arena, many expressing admiration and curiosity about where the Academy managed to find such remarkable individuals.
Levi gestured for Autumn to take her place to the left of the stage, where she stood with a quiet dignity, her violin still in hand. "And now," Levi continued, his voice rising with excitement, "we begin with the introduction of the new generation of Arknights. As tradition holds, we shall start with the ladies first!"
The audience roared in approval, eager to see the young women who would soon stand as the protectors of the realm, their hearts swelling with anticipation for what was to come.
Before the crowd could fully absorb the stunning performance by Autumn Yaz, another figure appeared on stage, almost as if she had materialized out of thin air. She stood tall, even taller than the average man; around 179cm , yet there was a graceful femininity in her posture that exuded both confidence and poise.
The young woman had a striking presence—her long, chestnut brown hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, allowing it to flow behind her like a banner in the wind as she moved. Her eyes, large and almond-shaped, were a fierce, determined brown that gleamed with the intensity of someone always ready for action. Her outfit was practical, made for movement, consisting of a fitted brown jacket and trousers that clung to her athletic form, embroidered with intricate designs that hinted at both tradition and functionality. Straps, belts, and pouches were strategically placed across her outfit, suggesting she was always prepared, always ready for whatever came next.
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The Announcer, Levi Atramov, who had just regained his composure from Autumn's performance, pretended to be startled by her sudden appearance, though it was clear that this was all part of the spectacle. He placed a hand on his chest, feigning surprise. "Well, it seems our next Arknight couldn't wait to join the fray!" he exclaimed with a playful grin, his voice carrying a note of admiration. "I guess taking things slow isn’t quite her style."
He gestured toward the young woman who now stood beside Autumn, radiating an aura of readiness and power. "Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to present to you the Kalkan Federation’s second new Arknight in a row—Elif Yildrim, the Speed Arknight!"
The crowd erupted in a wave of applause and cheers, the people of Kalkan Federation especially vocal in their pride. They had just witnessed the introduction of two of their own, both remarkable women who were now set to take their place among the legendary Arknights.
Levi Atramov, ever the showman, allowed the applause to wash over the arena before raising his voice once more. "With such incredible talent from Kalkan already on display, one has to wonder—how will the other nations compete with such strong female talent?" His question lingered in the air, adding an extra layer of anticipation as the crowd eagerly awaited the introduction of the next Arknights.
Elif stood tall and confident, a small smile playing on her lips as she glanced at Autumn, who nodded back at her with a gentle smile of her own. The two young women were a striking contrast—one exuding a serene, melodic presence, the other a vibrant, kinetic energy. Together, they represented the diverse power and potential of the new generation of Arknights.
As the applause for Elif Yildrim began to subside, the atmosphere in the arena shifted once more, growing almost hushed in anticipation. The next Arknight to be introduced stepped onto the stage with a poise and elegance that commanded immediate attention.
She was around 170cm with a regal bearing that spoke of her noble lineage and the power she wielded. Her skin was a rich, deep brown, glowing with an inner warmth that contrasted beautifully with the cool, metallic hues of the intricate armor she wore. Her eyes were sharp and intense, a deep amber that seemed to hold the secrets of the universe within them. They were framed by long, dark lashes that added to the intensity of her gaze.
Her hair was styled in elaborate braids, each one thick and lustrous, cascading down her back in a display of both beauty and strength. Two larger braids were tied up in buns at the sides of her head, while the rest flowed freely, accentuating the graceful lines of her neck and shoulders. Interwoven with the braids were golden threads and small charms, each one gleaming softly in the light, adding an almost mystical quality to her appearance.
Her armor was unlike anything the crowd had seen before—ornate, with intricate designs that seemed to pulse with a life of their own. It was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, the dark metal interspersed with glowing symbols and runes that hinted at her formidable power. The armor itself was adorned with golden accents that highlighted her figure, yet it did not detract from the sense of authority she exuded. Around her, small orbs of light and energy floated, orbiting her as if drawn by an invisible force.
The Announcer, Levi Atramov, did not need to feign surprise or admiration as he introduced her to the audience. His voice was filled with genuine respect. "And now, ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Ashelyn Vonstrakov, the first daughter of the Vonstrakov family from the Butchonsaw Republic!"
The crowd, particularly those from the Butchonsaw Republic, erupted into cheers and applause, their pride evident as they celebrated one of their own stepping onto the grand stage. The people of the Republic were known for their fierce loyalty and passion, and they showed it now with their jubilant response.
Levi continued, his voice rising to match the energy of the crowd. "Ashelyn Vonstrakov is an immense talent, a force to be reckoned with—the Magnetism Arknight!"
Ashelyn stepped forward, her movements fluid and graceful, yet there was an undeniable power in the way she carried herself. She paused at the center of the stage, taking in the arena with a confident gaze. The orbs of light around her shifted subtly, as if responding to her unspoken command. She gave a small nod of acknowledgment to the crowd, her expression calm and composed, before she moved to stand beside Elif and Autumn.
With three Arknights of such immense potential already introduced, the anticipation in the arena only grew. The audience waited with bated breath to see who would be introduced next, and how the other nations would respond to the incredible talents that had already been unveiled.
As the crowd settled after Ashelyn Vonstrakov’s entrance, the stage seemed to shimmer for a moment, and then, as if out of nowhere, two figures appeared side by side, catching the audience by surprise. They stood motionless, their presence alone commanding the attention of every eye in the arena.
The first of the duo was a young woman clad in a striking combination of purple and black. Her outfit was a seamless blend of traditional and tactical, designed for both stealth and agility. Her violet eyes shone brightly against her dark hair, which was tied up into a high ponytail, allowing the strands to flow freely with her every movement. Her stance was relaxed, but there was a sharpness in her gaze that betrayed her readiness for action at any moment. She held an air of confidence, exuding a subtle, almost playful energy. On her waist, she carried a pair of kunai, and around her, the faint shimmer of an energy field hinted at the nature of her abilities. She stood a bit short at around 158cm but her confidence made her seem a few inches taller.
Beside her stood another woman, standing at around 165cm, shrouded in a more enigmatic aura. Dressed in a white and black outfit that covered her almost entirely, she wore a hood that cast shadows over her face, and her features were hidden behind a sleek, black-and-white mask that resembled a fox's face. Her long, dark hair spilled out from under the hood, blending with the flowing tails of her outfit. The overall effect was that of a shadow given form—a presence that was there and not there at the same time. Her posture was perfectly still, her hands hidden within the long sleeves of her robe, and yet there was a palpable tension around her, like a tightly coiled spring ready to snap.
The Announcer, Levi Atramov, regained the audience’s attention with a dramatic flair. "Ladies and gentlemen, the stage welcomes not one, but two of the most dangerous women from the Zaurelias Empire!" At the mention of the Empire, a loud cheer rose from the crowd, those from Zaurelias proud to see their nation’s might represented.
Levi continued, his voice laced with admiration and respect. "From the renowned Ninja Household, the Kazaka family, home to the most dangerous ninjas to have ever lived, we present to you the first-ever female Kazaka Arknights—cousins, and both born to carry the legacy of their family name! On the left, Saki Kazaka, the Teleportation Arknight!" The woman in purple gave a slight nod, her eyes gleaming with the promise of her incredible speed and precision.
"And on the right," Levi gestured towards the masked figure, "Junko Kazaka, the Clone Arknight!" Junko remained perfectly still, her silent, stoic presence conveying her mastery of the shadows and the art of deception.
As the two women performed a traditional bow, the crowd erupted once more, the sound of applause mingling with the murmurs of awe and respect. The Kazaka family’s reputation was well known, and the appearance of these two female Arknights only solidified the family’s legendary status.
Saki and Junko stood side by side with the other women, their expressions calm and composed, exuding an aura of lethal efficiency. They were a stark contrast to the previous Arknights—one vibrant and quick, the other silent and enigmatic—but their power was undeniable. The anticipation in the arena continued to build, as the crowd eagerly awaited the next Arknights to take the stage, wondering how the nations would compete with the unparalleled strength that had already been displayed.
As the next young woman stepped onto the stage, the crowd fell into an almost eerie silence before a wave of shock and awe rippled through the arena. She was of average height, with a delicate and almost ethereal appearance that belied the power she carried within her. Her long, wavy hair was a mesmerizing cascade of pastel colors—shades of pink, blue, and purple blending seamlessly together, catching the light in a way that made it seem as though her hair was aglow with an otherworldly aura. Her large, vibrant blue eyes sparkled with intelligence and curiosity, taking in the scene before her with a quiet confidence.
She was dressed in an outfit that was both practical and ornate, a reflection of her unique status. A white coat, adorned with golden embroidery and symbols of alchemical significance, draped over her figure, its sleeves adorned with intricate cuffs that held various small vials and tools. A series of belts wrapped around her waist, each one holding more vials and pouches, all filled with colorful liquids and powders that hinted at her mastery over the elements of chemistry. The outfit was completed with a pair of sturdy, yet elegantly designed boots, and she wore a large bow around her neck that matched the vibrant hues of her hair.
The stage was set with various alchemical symbols and tools, further enhancing the aura of mystery and knowledge that surrounded her. As she walked with an air of quiet grace, the crowd erupted into a mix of cheers and gasps, their voices filled with both admiration and disbelief.
The Announcer, Levi Atramov, was momentarily at a loss for words, clearly taken aback by the unexpected presence on stage. Recovering quickly, he raised his voice to address the stunned audience. "Ladies and gentlemen, it seems we have quite the surprise for you today! Without any prior announcement, we are honored to welcome none other than the first Princess of The Zaurelias Empire!"
The Zaurelias Royal Family in the audience cheered and clapped, their applause measured but filled with pride. The only one noticeably absent was the Patriarch himself. The young woman on stage glanced briefly at the royal box, her eyes scanning for someone she did not see. Instead, she met the gazes of her brothers, sisters, and mothers, all of whom watched her with a mixture of pride and expectation.
Levi Atramov continued with a flourish, "For the first time in history, a Royal has joined the ranks of the Academy! Please give a warm welcome to Yue Zaurel, the Chemistry Arknight!"
The crowd erupted once more, their voices a mixture of wonder and excitement. The sight of a member of the royal family stepping onto the stage as an Arknight was unprecedented, and it added a new level of significance to the event.
Yue stood gracefully, her presence a calm yet powerful force among the other Arknights. Despite the grandeur of her entrance, there was a subtle humility in the way she held herself, as if she were fully aware of the weight of her responsibility and the expectations that came with her title. Yet, there was also a determination in her eyes—a resolve to prove herself not just as a royal, but as an Arknight in her own right.
As the anticipation in the arena reached a fever pitch, the next two figures to take the stage did so with a palpable sense of nervousness. Unlike the others before them, these two young women did not carry the same air of noble confidence or the stoic composure that came from years of rigorous training in elite families. Instead, they clung to each other for support, their hands intertwined as they walked shyly towards the center of the stage.
The first of the pair, standing at 163 cm, was a striking young woman with skin that shimmered under the arena's lights, appearing as if it were made of polished metal. Her skin had an almost ethereal glow, as though energy itself coursed just beneath the surface, giving her a unique and mesmerizing appearance. Her large, green eyes darted around the vast arena, clearly overwhelmed by the sheer size and the attention focused on them. She had ginger-colored hair that contrasted beautifully with her metallic skin, cascading down her back in soft waves. Her outfit was simple compared to the others, practical and unadorned, but with subtle hints of her power—small, glowing symbols stitched into the fabric that flickered softly with energy.
Beside her, standing slightly taller at 169 cm, was a girl with a more subdued appearance, yet equally captivating in her own right. Her long, dark green hair was tied back in a loose braid, and her attire was reminiscent of the natural world—a soft, flowing green dress adorned with floral patterns and accents that seemed to come alive with every movement she made. Her skin had a warm, earthy tone, and her brown eyes were soft and gentle, but filled with a quiet strength. Despite her obvious nerves, there was something serene and calming about her presence, as if she carried the essence of nature itself within her.
The Announcer, Levi Atramov, spoke up, his voice warm and encouraging, perhaps sensing their apprehension. "And now, the United Kingdom of Aurelian finally responds! It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you two remarkable young talents who have risen to the occasion despite their humble beginnings. Please welcome Penelope Quinn, the Energy Arknight, and Luella Amador, the Flower Arknight!"
The crowd, recognizing the courage it took for these two to stand alongside their peers, erupted into applause. There was a mix of cheers and supportive shouts, particularly from those in the audience who themselves came from more common backgrounds. The contrast between these two and the previous Arknights was stark, but it only served to highlight the diversity and range of talents that the Academy sought to cultivate.
Penelope, with her metallic skin, managed a tentative smile as she heard the cheers, her grip on Luella's hand tightening for just a moment before she relaxed slightly. Luella, too, seemed to draw strength from the crowd's support, her eyes shining with a mix of relief and determination.
As they took their place beside the other Arknights, there was a momentary exchange of glances between them and their new peers. Despite the differences in background and demeanour, the other Arknights offered nods of acknowledgment and support, recognizing that they were all now part of the same path, destined to train and grow together.
Levi Atramov's voice rang out with practiced ease, each word resonating through the grand arena as he turned the crowd's attention to the final two female Arknights. "And now," he began, his voice smooth yet filled with anticipation, "we introduce the last of the young women chosen to represent the future of the Arknights Academy. These two, known far and wide as the most beautiful and stunning young women of the United Kingdom of Aurelian, hail from noble houses of great repute."
The crowd, already buzzing with excitement, grew quiet as the first young woman stepped forward. She moved with an air of ethereal purpose, her presence immediately captivating everyone in the arena.
"The first," Levi continued, "is Aurora Ravenheim, from the longest reigning noble household in the world. Known for her exceptional confidence and femininity, she is introduced today as The Glacier Arknight."
Aurora stood at 160 cm, her black hair flowing like a midnight waterfall over her fair, porcelain-like skin. Her dark eyes, calm and composed, held the crowd's attention as she smiled and waved with a grace that spoke of centuries of noble lineage. She wore a traditional light blue kimono, adorned with subtle floral patterns, tied with a dark blue obi that added to her elegant appearance. Every step she took exuded poise, her movements as fluid as ice, befitting her title. The audience responded with a wave of applause, recognizing the quiet strength she embodied.
Far away, in the quiet town of Bethel, Haru's mother, Saori, watched from her small home. The screen in the sky, a marvel created by the Inventor Arknight, displayed the entire ceremony for those across the realm. As Aurora appeared, Saori’s heart clenched. She recognized the young woman, her mind briefly wandering to the past, filling her with a sense of unease. Saori’s face remained composed, but inside, the sight of Aurora stirred emotions she had long kept buried.
As Aurora took her place, the second young woman stepped forward, and Levi's voice rose above the growing anticipation. "And now," he called out, "I present to you, from one of the two greatest Arknight households, the Tempest Arknight—Emma Goldstone!"
Emma's presence was electric, her platinum-blonde hair shimmering under the lights of the arena. Her bright blue eyes scanned the crowd with a confident, almost playful smirk that only added to her allure. She wore an elaborate outfit—a gown primarily white with light blue accents, adorned with intricate silver designs resembling armor. A fur-lined collar and matching cape flowed behind her, completing the image of a regal and powerful figure. In her hand, she held an ornate staff topped with a glowing blue crystal, a symbol of the tempestuous power she wielded. The crowd erupted in applause as she approached the center stage, her every movement filled with a natural arrogance that was strangely mesmerizing. She clapped along with the audience, clearly enjoying the atmosphere, her confidence infectious.
The two young women stood side by side, their contrasting appearances creating a striking image. Aurora’s serene and composed demeanor balanced Emma’s vibrant and commanding presence, making it clear why they were chosen to be part of this new generation of Arknights.
As the applause slowly subsided, Levi's voice rang out again, addressing the crowd with a mix of pride and excitement. "These ten remarkable women," he announced, "each unique in their gifts and heritage, are destined for greatness. This marks the first time in history that ten women have been chosen to join the ranks of the Arknights Academy, a testament to their strength and potential."
The crowd roared in approval, the gravity of the moment sinking in. The ten young women, now united as a formidable force, reached out and held hands, a symbol of the solidarity and strength they would need in the trials to come.
Levi then turned to the crowd, his voice filled with the promise of even more excitement. "And now," he said, "the moment that always brings the greatest anticipation—the introduction of the young men who will join these extraordinary women!"
The crowd’s energy surged once more as they awaited the introduction of the male Arknights. The young women, standing proudly on the stage, watched with a sense of expectation, ready to meet their peers and fellow protectors of the realm. The crowd erupted further, this was the main event that was unfolding before them. The male Arknights tended to be the next generations strongest and the people were interested in seeing who would possibly surpass their current strongest Arknight: Yusei Subaru!