Chapter 3: The Selection
The morning sun cast a warm glow over the bustling streets as Taro's family arrived at the prestigious academy. His parents, beaming with pride, accompanied him to the entrance.
"We're so proud of you, son," his mother said, her voice trembling with emotion. "Remember, believe in yourself, and you'll achieve great things."
His father placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You've worked hard to get here. Just be yourself, and you'll make a great impression."
Taro smiled, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "Thanks, Mom and Dad. I'll do my best."
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With a final farewell, his parents watched as he took a deep breath and stepped through the academy's grand entrance.
Inside, Taro joined a sea of anxious students, all vying for a coveted spot. The air was thick with tension as each student waited for their number to be called. When it was finally his turn, Taro stood up, smoothing his attire before making his way to the designated room.
Inside, he found himself face-to-face with a panel of five esteemed teachers. Their piercing gazes seemed to bore into his very soul. At the center of the room, a pedestal supported a glittering crystal that seemed to pulsate with an otherworldly energy.
One of the teachers, an elderly man with a long white beard, instructed Taro to place his hand on the crystal. "This ancient artifact will reveal your hidden potential," he explained, his eyes glinting with curiosity.
As soon as Taro's hand made contact with the crystal, a blindingly bright golden ray erupted, filling the room with an intense, radiant light. The teachers' eyes widened in shock, their faces pale with astonishment.
"A... a Golden Ray," one of them stammered, as if unable to believe their eyes. "It's impossible. Such talent is said to appear only once in a millennium... and even then, only in the realm of Malaniam."
The room fell silent, with all eyes fixed on Taro. The weight of their gaze was crushing, but he stood tall, his heart pounding with excitement and trepidation. What did this mean for his future?