With that, Dino turned his gaze back to the horizon. As the airship continue drifting to the direction of section two... The trial ground...
---
The soft rays of the morning sun bathed the lush landscapes of Eden Planet, casting a warm, golden hue over its valleys, mountains, and cities. It was Monday, a day of great significance for the youths of Eden.
Today marked the commencement of the annual Academy Trials, a prestigious event held in Section Two. Here, young individuals between the ages of fifteen and eighteen, who had either awakened their talent or demonstrated remarkable talent in cultivation, would gather for a chance to shape their destinies.
These trials were more than just a test of power, they were a gateway to Eden Domineer Academy, the most respected institution on the planet. Acceptance into the academy did not rely solely on raw strength or noble lineage. While some candidates came from powerful families or possessed formidable combat skills, others were gifted in support roles: healers, strategists, beast tamers... those whose talents lay beyond the battlefield.
Regardless of class or origin, the academy valued potential above all else. Even someone with an S-rank talent, if unable to demonstrate value, could be rejected, while a C-rank with determination and creativity could shine.
The academy's philosophy was clear: Eden did not thrive because of ancient family influence, but because of the exceptional individuals it nurtured... people who had honed their specialties, developed their strengths, and protected the planet through personal merit.
The Academy Trials were divided into two major components: the Survival Trial and the Physical Test. Both were designed to challenge not only the body, but also the spirit and mind. Only those who could adapt, overcome, and grow would earn a place in the Eden Domineer Academy.
---
Section Two was a land framed by towering mountain ranges, deep ravines, and dense ancient forests. Among the foothills was a vast open space surrounded by stone outcrops and tall trees:– an area known as the Trial Grounds.
At its heart stood a massive cave sealed shut by a reinforced, double-layered metal gate. In front of this gate was a raised platform of smooth stone, on which rested a solitary chair and a table. Seated calmly at this station was a man cloaked in black.
This man was Evans Tamar, the second vice principal of Eden Domineer Academy. He was clad in a sleek black armor suit traced with glowing green lines that pulsed faintly under the sunlight. His eyes were closed in still meditation, his expression stern. A long scar ran down from his right brow to the base of his eye, giving him a fierce and commanding presence. Even at rest, he radiated immense strength, like a coiled spring ready to release. There was no mistaking it... this was a man forged by battle.
Below the platform, seven smaller groups of youths, each containing about fifteen to twenty participants, were gathered in formation. Off to one side stood a significantly larger crowd. From the organization and attire, it was clear these students hailed from different factions and family lineages. These were the seven ancient families... lineages steeped in history, influence, and talent, and a collective of youths from what were considered lower-tier families, respectively.
But make no mistake, being from a lesser-tier family did not equate to being less talented. On more than one occasion, someone from humble beginnings had outshone the scions of the ancient houses. Talent, after all, could blossom anywhere.
The seven ancient families were named and ranked as follows: Voidspace, Magnus, Tarma, Sherman, Wisewind, Stormer, and Erickson.
Each family stood with pride, their leading prodigies positioned at the forefront.
From the Voidspace family stood Jack Voidspace, a striking figure clad entirely in white. He wore a flowing blindfold over snow-white hair, his elegant attire etched with intricate silver embroidery. Though his eyes were covered, his demeanor was calm and regal.
Flanking him were the twin sisters Zoe and Zaphi Voidspace... nearly identical in appearance but wearing different colored robes. The trio exuded an air of confidence that few could match.
The Magnus family was led by Brain Magnus, a sharp-featured youth with wild purple hair and eyes that crackled with flickers of electricity. His presence was volatile, like a storm ready to explode.
Beside him stood Max Magnus, quieter in demeanor but no less formidable. His intellect and composed aura complemented Brain's raw intensity, making them a dangerous duo.
The Tarma family presented Karon Tarma at the lead, a tan-skinned youth with a battle-hardened look. He wore a sleeveless hoodie over a black shirt and wielded a large war hammer with dual faces, one blunt, the other sharp. His dark hair was swept back, and his gaze was steady.
Beside him was his younger sister, Carly Tarma, equally fierce. She wore tight combat gear and her hair was braided with streaks of color, standing proudly as a warrior in her own right. The rest of the Tarma youths shared the same sun-kissed skin and bold posture.
From the Sherman family came Denis Sherman, a calm but dangerous-looking youth dressed in deep black. Twin daggers hung at his waist, and the aura around him was sharp, calculated... lethal.
Beside him stood Tyler Sherman, his cousin, her chilling beauty matched only by the cold aura that surrounded her. Behind them was Thur Sherman, the eldest son, visibly fatigued for reasons unknown but still respected among his peers.
The Wisewind family's representative was less flamboyant, but no less mysterious. A red-haired youth with pale skin and ordinary features, his gray eyes watched everything like a hawk.
Despite his average appearance, there was something in his gaze, something that suggested deep awareness and subtle intelligence. He is Rider Wisewind
The Stormer family was impossible to miss. Marcus Stormer, a large, rugged youth with wild hair and tattered clothes, stood tall with a massive spear slung over his shoulder. The weapon hummed with latent energy, yearning for battle. Despite his rough appearance, Marcus had a captivating charm that could not be ignored.
Finally, the Erickson family was led by Gina Erickson, a breathtaking beauty with long orange hair and glowing violet eyes. Her pale, slender form was wrapped in an elegant white dress, but strapped to her waist were twin short spears... a silent warning that beauty could mask danger. She walked with grace, but her gaze was razor-sharp, exuding the air of someone both admired and feared.
These were the heirs and prodigies of Eden's ancient families. Each of them was a genius in their own right, chosen not merely for birthright, but for talent, determination, and promise. Together with the many others from lower-tier families, they now stood at the cusp of a new chapter.
The Academy Trials were about to begin, and with them, a new generation of legends would rise.