Chapter 90: BloodRose
Dune and the others approached the academy's massive gates, their eyes widening as the full scale of it came into view. Towering black and silver walls wrapped around the academy, and beyond the open gates lay a sprawling garden-like courtyard.
Lush trees and vibrant flowers lined the walkways, and a grand fountain in the center shimmered under the sunlight. The place was alive with movement, hundreds of students had gathered, all preparing for the entrance exams.
"Woah," Ned breathed, his eyes darting around as they stepped inside.
Everywhere they looked, there were people from different backgrounds. Some students stood in small groups, chatting nervously, while others meditated in silence, their faces calm and focused.
A few were dressed in elaborate robes, symbols of noble families stitched into their sleeves, while others wore plain yet sturdy travel clothes, likely from distant towns or villages. There were students stretching and practicing forms, their movements precise, while some carried exotic weapons strapped to their backs. The energy in the air was electric, a mix of anticipation and tension.
As they walked through the crowd, Dune leaned in and whispered to Atlas and Ned, his voice low and serious. "Remember, we aren't using our Zetens. If we do, we'll have problems. So at any point, don't activate it."
Ned rolled his eyes but nodded. "Yeah, yeah, got it."
Atlas gave a firm nod. "Understood."
Before they could say more, a deep, resonant sound filled the air, like a massive instrument being struck. The entire courtyard went silent. All eyes turned toward the grand staircase leading up to the academy's main building, where a raised platform stood.
A figure stepped forward.
The moment they appeared, the entire crowd erupted into cheers and shouts. Some students even looked in awe, whispering excitedly to one another.