How could Morca not know that someone was tracking him? When he started running toward the trial ground, he was already on high alert. As he sensed those shadowy figures lurking around, he already knew they were here for him.
From their aura, he could tell they were all Saint-rank experts... four of them, and their identities were unknown. He decided he didn't want to get into an unnecessary fight, especially since he hadn't had a proper rest. Why waste his strength before the trials even began?
As you might have guessed, he used his unique skill Blank to fade his presence and blend into the shadows. This left the four assassins momentarily confused. With determined expressions, they moved on to their next plan.
Boom. Boom. Boom.
In the heart of the trial ground, a question still lingered in the air:
"Do you know he's coming here today for the trial?"
Soon, a loud sound scattered the silence shaking the ground, echoing from the west side of the trial ground. All the youths turned in that direction.
Evans Tamar, who was seated atop the platform, raised his brow but didn't open his eyes.
"Who dares to fight in the trial area? Seeking death," he muttered. But just as he was about to stand and deal with the disturbance, he stopped. He sensed something... the smell of blood, and the silhouette of a young man standing amidst that direction. His furrowed brows relaxed as he leaned back into his chair. Seven minutes still remained before the trials began.
In the middle of the chaotic scene, Morca deactivated his unique skill. His face was expressionless as he gazed at the blood-stained ground and the scattered trees and leaves.
"This is a death mission... either succeed or die. Who's so desperate to kill me that they'd send people willing to sacrifice their lives?" He paused in thought. "I've only killed monsters since I transmigrated… or is this related to the enemy chasing my brother?" He nodded, deep in thought.
"That must be it. Hmm. Never mind. If they could do it once, they'll do it again. I'll just extract information from the next ones."
Without another word, he left the scene and continued toward the trial ground.
Looking at the scene, it was clear that the explosion wasn't caused by Morca. It was a trap the assassins had set beforehand, a backup plan that would trigger if the target had other means of escape.
When they couldn't sense Morca's presence, they decided to go down with him, hoping they might be lucky enough to kill him and earn rewards for their families.
After some time, when no further sounds were heard, the gathered youths focused on the man still sitting with closed eyes. Various thoughts went through their minds. His lack of movement implied everything was under control.
At the same time, the black-cloaked young lady standing at the forefront of the larger group, where the nine leaders were standing, glanced toward the Sherman youths, seemingly looking for someone. But no matter how many times she searched, she couldn't find the person.
'What happened? Why hasn't he come yet? Did something happen on his way? …Well, he should be fine,' she thought, closing her eyes with a sigh as nothing present interest her.
The same was true for Tyler Sherman, who occasionally glanced around, hoping to spot him. But to her disappointment, he was nowhere to be found.
'I'm sure he saw the time on the acceptance letter… So why isn't he here yet? The trial will begin in just a minute,' she thought anxiously.
Just as Vice Principal Evans Tamar was about to stand up, a lone figure appeared from the opposite end of the platform and the open space where the youths had gathered.
He wore a green T-shirt and black pants, with a long black trench coat floating behind him. A black eyepatch covered his left eye, his sleek, ink-black hair framed his face. He looked like a modern-day death god.
Morca didn't face any further challenges after the assassins' attack. He walked through the crowd and headed toward the Sherman family group, finding a spot to stand. The moment he did, a suppressing aura filled the area... a fierce, battle-like aura that made the blood of the surrounding youths boil. Some of the weaker ones even had their eyes turn red, as though they might erupt at any moment. All eyes fixed on the man standing above them.
Once Vice Principal Evans Tamar noticed that all attention was on him, he cleared his throat and announced:
"Welcome to the 0289 Eden Domineer Academy Trial. Your group is the 289th set to undergo this test. Note that while you may come from noble families and be talented young elites, let me break the news to you: that doesn't matter here. I believe you left your pride at home, or if you haven't, kindly throw it away now.
What lies ahead after the trial is a hunting ground. You will either hunt… or be hunted. This is survival."
He paused to let his words sink in.
It worked. Many of the youths from powerful families blushed, a bit disheartened. Though they had been told before, hearing it again drove the point home. They were used to getting what they wanted with money, but that advantage was now gone.
However, none of the youths from ancient families flinched. Their faces were filled with anticipation for what awaited them.
Morca just smirked. 'Interesting.'
After a brief moment, the vice principal continued,
"The entrance trial is divided into two: the Survival Trial and the Physical Test Trial. If you pass the first trial, your chances of being admitted to the academy will be high."
With a wave of his hand, hundreds of glowing lights appeared in the sky and floated toward each person present, guided by an unseen force.
When Morca caught his, he saw that it was a wristwatch. Judging by its design, he knew it wasn't an ordinary device. He waited for the vice principal to explain.
Soon enough, after all the youths had received theirs, the vice principal said,
"This is a monitor device to guide you through the test. If you have any questions, study it. The rules and instructions are inside, and your rank will also be displayed according to your performance."
-----
Sorry guys I was a little busy this week so I will be updating one or two chapters daily.
Thanks for your support : – Author Eribor Samix