The car came to a halt at the designated location, and Kai emerged from its confines. His gaze swept over the tranquil surroundings, taking in the serene landscape. It appeared that they had arrived well ahead of schedule, for there was no sign of anyone else at the moment.

With a decisive nod, Kai signaled for his driver to depart. The vehicle's engine rumbled to life once more before receding into the distance, leaving Kai alone with the stillness of the natural world. The sense of solitude enveloped him as he prepared to confront whatever awaited him in this secluded place.

As the minutes passed in solitude, an unanticipated disturbance shattered the tranquility. Out of nowhere, a speeding van materialized, its tires screeching in protest as it came to an abrupt halt before Kai. Before he could process the sudden turn of events, four imposing figures emerged from the vehicle, their expressions inscrutable.

Time seemed to slow as the world around him blurred into chaos. In the blink of an eye, an unseen assailant struck from behind, a sharp sting coursing through Kai's body as a tranquilizer dart found its mark. His limbs grew heavy, and the edges of his vision blurred.

Helpless and disoriented, he was swiftly and efficiently bound, his struggles futile against the trained hands of his captors. With a callous disregard, they deposited him unceremoniously into the van, sealing his fate as the vehicle sped away, leaving behind the peaceful serenity that had marked the beginning of his day.

Kai's eyes slowly fluttered open, greeted by an unfamiliar environment. He felt disoriented, his senses gradually returning to him. The surroundings were unlike anything he had seen before, a blend of modernity and grandeur that didn't quite match his expectations. It was clear this place was different from his usual haunts.

As he attempted to sit up, a chorus of voices echoed around him, and he realized he was surrounded by other teenagers, all roughly his age. The atmosphere buzzed with palpable tension and excitement, making it clear they were all there for the same purpose.

A girl, her expression a mix of concern and curiosity, approached Kai. Her voice was gentle, a stark contrast to the disorienting situation they found themselves in. "Are you okay?" she inquired, her eyes scanning him for any signs of distress.

Kai slowly pushed himself up, taking a moment to dust off his clothes. Despite the chaos of their arrival, he maintained a composed demeanor. "Yeah, I'm fine," he replied, his tone sharp and to the point.

Undeterred by his initial response, the girl extended a hand toward him, a friendly smile on her face. "I'm Mia," she introduced herself, her eyes filled with genuine warmth. "What's your name?"

Kai regarded her for a moment, his expression softening as he realized that a bit of human connection in this unfamiliar place might not be a bad thing. He shook her hand firmly. "Kai," he replied, his voice carrying a touch more warmth than before. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by the entrance of a tall, lanky man with jet-black hair and sleek sunglasses.

"Welcome, students! I am your host, Mr. Everywhere," the man greeted them with an enthusiastic grin, his voice ringing out across the grand arena. The assembled students erupted into a chorus of cheers, applause, and even a few joyful whistles.

The atmosphere crackled with excitement as Mr. Everywhere continued, his words carrying the weight of significance. "It is an honor to meet our new students." His smile was infectious, spreading through the crowd as he gazed out at the sea of eager faces.

Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

The excited chatter began to subside, gradually replaced by a hushed anticipation as Mr. Everywhere motioned for everyone to calm down. The new students complied, although a palpable undercurrent of excitement still hummed through the air. They hung on his every word, their curiosity piqued.

Mr. Everywhere adjusted his glasses and continued, his tone steady and reassuring. "Now, I'm sure you must be eager to know what's in the black box." With a deft flick of his finger, the lids of the boxes popped open simultaneously, revealing the contents within.

"Now, this will be your school I.D.," he explained, holding up one of the sleek, futuristic-looking devices. "You can put them on; it will tell us your health, element, location, and power level." He gestured for the students to wear their I.D. badges.

The students carefully fastened the I.D. badges around their necks or wrists, depending on their preferences. These seemingly ordinary accessories held the key to their journey at the Gifted Academy, and they wore them with a mixture of pride and curiosity.

As Mr. Everywhere was addressing the students, a sudden hush fell over the crowd as a striking figure made his way to the stage. This man, with snow-white hair, pale yellow eyes, and dressed in a pristine white suit, exuded an air of authority that immediately commanded attention.

Mr. Everywhere, noticing the man, smiled and said, "Oh, it looks like my show is over."

The man in the white suit stepped up to the microphone, and the room was filled with anticipation as he introduced himself with a regal tone. "Ladies and gentlemen, students and esteemed guests, I am the Principal, Mr. White."

A wave of whispers and murmurs rippled through the audience as the students exchanged puzzled glances. The enigmatic figure known as Mr. White had taken center stage, and it was clear that his presence held immense significance in the world of the Gifted Academy.

"I want to extend a warm welcome to all of you, the chosen few. You are not here by chance, but because you represent the best of the best."

"At the heart of the Gifted Academy lies our fundamental purpose: to nurture your unique talents and skills to become Rangers.

Within our halls, you'll undergo a transformative journey of self-discovery, honing your latent abilities into formidable powers. This learning process will not only empower you to safeguard our world but to extend your protective reach beyond, into realms yet uncharted.

In your time here, you will forge unbreakable bonds and gather invaluable knowledge. These experiences will shape you into guardians of hope, defenders of light, and champions of a destiny that holds unparalleled grandeur and significance."

Principal White continued, "Now, let me explain how our school system works. Among you, there are a total of 86 new students, each with their unique talents and abilities. However, we have divided you into different groups to maintain a balanced and nurturing environment."

Principal White continued to address the assembly of students, his voice carrying a sense of authority and gravitas. "Now, there is a total of nine headmasters who will oversee your training and education here at the Gifted Academy."

He paused for a moment, allowing the significance of his words to sink in. The students exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued.

You will be divided into groups of ten," Principle White explained, "and each group will be assigned to one of our esteemed headmasters. Each of them has earned their place through unparalleled achievements and formidable power. They stand as pillars of knowledge and strength, guiding you on your path to mastery.

The atmosphere in the room grew more electric as the students contemplated.

He explained that the school was situated on a secluded island, a place of both serenity and isolation, where the students would find every necessity at their fingertips. From bustling malls to cozy restaurants, the island provided a unique environment, like a self-contained world designed to cater to their every need.

He went on to emphasize that the students would receive loans, based on their accomplishments, ranks, and the missions they undertook. These loans would be essential for their survival and success in this new environment.

"I will now commence the assignment of students to their respective headmasters," Principal White announced with a commanding presence.