The Academy [6][Edited]

I moved toward the gates like everyone else. Before anyone could pass through, it seemed there was a mandatory scan with the meta-watch. After standing in line for what felt like forever, my turn finally came. I had no idea where Everlin had wandered off to, but it didn't matter. If I got admitted to the Academy, this might be the last time I'd speak to her. Once inside, my focus would be entirely on growing my strength—at least until the first arc began.

"Stretch out your wrist," the official instructed. I complied, mimicking what I'd seen the others do. He held up a small device—it looked like some sort of scanner, though it bore little resemblance to anything I'd seen on Earth.

"You may proceed," he said after a moment. I nodded and stepped toward the gate, flanked by two more officials on either side.

At the center of the circular portal was a thin, almost imperceptible veil of mana, shimmering faintly.

I exhaled deeply.

Here goes nothing.