Chapter 4: The Next Step
"Once your core begins to form, you only have so long until it's complete and you get forcefully sent into the Second Realm," Alicia explained, her tone shifting to something more serious. "Too many Chosen were getting sent to their deaths due to their ignorance about Realm Cores and the other realms themselves."
She folded her hands in her lap, her expression earnest as she continued. "So in order to combat this and preserve as many Chosen as possible, each major district on the planet has opened Realm Schools. These academies are where developing Chosen are taught everything possible to ready themselves for the Second Realm."
A pamphlet materialized from her pocket, which she placed on the edge of Arthur's bed. The glossy paper featured an imposing stone building with "District 3 Realm Academy" emblazoned across the top.
"The government sponsors you completely—free admission along with room, board, and meals included, provided you attend the classes," she finished with a reassuring smile. "The survival rate of academy-trained Chosen is significantly higher than those who enter the Second Realm unprepared."
Her explanation was a lot for Arthur to process. The weight of this new reality pressed down on him, making the hospital bed feel like it was slowly swallowing him whole. He sat there for a long moment, staring down at his hands, still trying to comprehend everything that was happening.
'I'm a Chosen? That means in two months or so, I'll get sent into the next realm, and most likely—knowing my luck—I'll die there.'
Arthur let out a small sigh at these thoughts and looked back up at Alicia. "Th-this is a lot. Do you mind if I have a moment to think?"
Her smile grew wider as she stood up, smoothing her scrubs. "Of course. You're set to leave for the academy tomorrow morning, so take as much time as you need before then." She gestured to a small red button on the wall near his bed. "If you need me, press the red button next to your bed, and I'll come running."
She turned around and made her way across the room, her footsteps nearly silent on the polished floor. With a soft click, the door closed behind her, leaving Arthur alone with his thoughts.