The morning sun illuminated the sleek towers of Stellar Apex Academy, casting long, golden beams through the expansive windows of the training hall. Students hustled in and out of the building, some laughing, others deep in conversation, while a few moved in complete silence, lost in their own thoughts.
Aiden and Riko walked side by side down the corridor, their footsteps echoing off the smooth floors. The academy was a maze of pristine white walls and futuristic architecture, a place where the best of the best honed their powers. But today, the usual hustle seemed subdued, as if the academy itself sensed the weight that hung in the air.
The final selection day was less than a week away.
"I can't believe it's already here," Riko muttered, his fingers tapping nervously against his jeans. "Feels like just yesterday we were trying to figure out what we even wanted."
Aiden let out a breath, his eyes focused straight ahead. "Yeah. And now it's time to choose. The real deal. It's almost... too much to process."
They rounded the corner into a familiar room, where their mentor, Professor Lark, awaited them. A tall figure with sharp features and piercing blue eyes, Lark was known for his calm demeanor, but everyone knew he was one of the fiercest trainers at Stellar Apex. His reputation for guiding students through their power selections was unmatched.
"Good morning, gentlemen," Lark greeted them with a nod. "I trust you've been thinking carefully about the powers you'll choose? It's not long now."
Aiden and Riko nodded in unison, but neither one spoke immediately. The pressure was building, and the silent anticipation weighed heavy on both of them.
Professor Lark stepped toward them, his voice quiet but firm. "I've been watching you both progress, and I must say... I'm impressed. Aiden, with your teleportation, reflective field, and black hole creation—each power complements the others well. But remember, the field won't protect you if you can't use it quickly. It requires focus, concentration. And Riko, your phase locking and gravitational manipulation will give you incredible versatility, but you need to be cautious. If your gravity manipulation gets out of hand, even you won't be able to control it. Are you both prepared for what's to come?"
Aiden and Riko exchanged looks, then both nodded, though neither one felt truly ready.
"I think we're ready," Aiden said, his voice steady despite the nervous energy inside. "But... what if we choose wrong? What if there's something we're missing?"
Riko rubbed his chin, his expression thoughtful. "I keep wondering if there's something more... maybe we're overthinking it. What if we pick something that's strong but doesn't fit who we are?"
Professor Lark observed them for a moment, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "That's a common concern. It's normal to second-guess yourselves. But you have a unique opportunity here—this is where you define your future. The powers you choose should be a reflection of who you are now and who you hope to become. Your powers are extensions of you, not just tools for battle. You need to consider your core strengths. What is it that you want to achieve?"
Aiden looked at Riko, feeling the weight of Lark's words. They had been training for years, but now that the moment was so close, it felt different. More real. More intimidating. His gaze drifted to the window, where the city skyline stretched out before him, the towering buildings cutting through the mist. He could feel the thrill of anticipation stirring within him.
"I think I want to be someone who's always a step ahead," Aiden said, his voice gaining confidence. "Someone who can survive anything. That's why I'm choosing teleportation and the reflective field. The black hole power... maybe I'm still unsure, but I know the field will protect me. It's like a safety net. It'll be enough to keep me alive, no matter what."
Riko shifted on his feet, his fingers still tapping nervously. "For me, it's all about adaptability. I need to be able to move freely, shift the situation in my favor. The phase locking gives me that, but gravitational manipulation is the real game changer. It's the raw power I need. But I still need control. I don't want to be responsible for... destroying everything around me. I need balance."
Professor Lark nodded thoughtfully. "Both of you have given this a lot of thought. I can see that. But remember—while it's important to consider your power combination, you must also look at how they'll evolve. Every choice is an investment in your future. Make sure it's a choice you're willing to grow into."
The sound of a bell echoed through the hall, signaling the end of the period. Lark turned toward the door. "Your training is over for today. Take some time to rest, but keep thinking about your selections. The decision you make will shape the rest of your life. Make it count."
As the students filed out of the room, Aiden and Riko stayed behind for a moment, still processing everything. Aiden glanced at Riko.
"You know, I've been thinking... What if we chose the same university?" Aiden asked quietly. "Wouldn't it be easier if we stuck together?"
Riko nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. "I was thinking the same thing. I can't imagine going to one of the other universities without you. Plus, we've been through everything together. It only makes sense."
Aiden smiled, the tension in his chest easing a little. "Right. We're in this together. Always have been. Always will be."
With one last look at the horizon, they walked out of the training hall together, their steps in sync as they faced the future. The selection day loomed closer, and despite the uncertainty, they knew they were ready—whatever powers they chose, whatever challenges awaited, they would face them side by side.