Chapter 8: The Awakening: Assessment and Into the Mystic Realm

The next day, Gabriel made his way to school, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness. As he arrived, he saw that the 27 students who had successfully awakened were already gathered on the field. Students from other classes had also assembled, all under the watchful eye of their teacher, Mr. Hanz. The air was thick with anticipation as the students chatted and exchanged anxious glances, preparing for the assessment ahead.

Approaching the group, Gabriel noticed a striking stage set up before them. In the center stood a podium, clearly the focal point of this morning's event. He couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sight, knowing something significant was about to happen.

After a brief moment of calm, the atmosphere suddenly shifted. A powerful gust of wind swept through the field, transforming the once tranquil environment into a chaotic swirl of movement. Leaves rustled and objects swayed as the wind howled around them.

WHOOOSH! 

WHOOOSH!

The crowd's attention was drawn to a strange sight in the distance. A mysterious figure, humanoid in shape, was slowly floating through the air toward the stage. All eyes were fixed on this soaring silhouette, curiosity and amazement growing with every second.

As the figure drew closer, the winds intensified, yet the individual seemed to glide effortlessly, defying gravity. The anticipation in the crowd built steadily until the figure became more defined, revealing a person walking through the air as if it were the most natural thing in the world. The sight left the onlookers in awe, wondering how such a feat was possible.

Suddenly, the gust of wind dissipated, and the mysterious figure descended gracefully onto the stage, walking confidently toward the podium. It was none other than the principal of the school, Mr. Dalhmer—a powerful mage class Orion, level 69, and at the peak of the Gold rank.

"Ahem..." He cleared his throat, instantly commanding the attention of everyone in the audience.

"Good day to you all," he began, his voice resonating across the field. "Today marks the culmination of your time at this academy."

The principal continued his speech, addressing the students' achievements and reminding them of their potential. He encouraged them to continue striving for success. "Today will be your first day entering a dungeon," he announced, pausing to let the weight of his words settle. "All I can say is, do not let your nerves get the best of you. After all, this is the lowest-level dungeon."

The students listened intently as Mr. Dalhmer shared his wisdom, offering valuable advice from his years of experience. His voice rose with enthusiasm as he reached the climax of his speech. "And lastly!" he exclaimed. "Prove to me and your teachers that you are worthy of the title, Orion!"

The students straightened up, their hearts pounding with anticipation. They understood the gravity of this moment. This was a test of their knowledge, skills, and courage. "Let the final assessment begin!" declared the principal, signaling the start of the assessment.

As soon as the signal was given, the principal's voice boomed once more, calling upon the student council president to come up to the stage. As she approached, the audience noticed a small black token clutched tightly in her hand. With a fluid motion, she threw the token onto the ground before her. It landed with a sharp clink.

Immediately, the air filled with thick, swirling smoke, obscuring the entire stage from view. The smoke grew denser and denser until visibility was reduced to nothing. Just as suddenly, the smoke began to clear, revealing a strange, otherworldly portal that shimmered with an eerie light.

The portal was unlike anything the audience had ever seen. It was as if a mystical realm had opened up right there on the stage, beckoning anyone brave enough to step through. The sight was awe-inspiring—a moment that would be remembered for years to come.

...

During the time of the dungeon invasion, the human world had drastically changed, bringing both opportunities and dangers. One of the most significant benefits was the discovery of natural energy in the form of mana. This discovery allowed people to awaken their unique Classes and gain access to new abilities. The surplus of mana in the atmosphere caused different dimensions to merge, giving rise to several mystic realms, which offered limitless possibilities for those daring enough to explore them.

These realms were filled with creatures—many strong and ferocious—lying in wait for any unsuspecting visitor. However, the rewards for braving such dangers were immense. Some realms offered vast amounts of experience, higher fighting skills, divine-level abilities, or even the opportunity for reincarnation.

In short, the mystic realms were a world of endless possibilities for those willing to take the risk. To enter these realms, one needed only to obtain a crystal from a monster, which could be found in the dungeons scattered throughout the human world.

Within these mystical realms, there existed small pockets of mystery that could be unlocked and explored repeatedly. These pockets contained low-level monsters, making them ideal for newly awakened students to test their skills and abilities. Such areas served as assessment grounds for students just beginning their journey into mysticism. While the monsters in these zones were of a lower level, danger—and even death—remained a possibility for the careless. Thus, it was crucial for students to exercise caution and rely on their skills and knowledge to navigate these areas successfully.

...

As the time to enter the mystical realm approached, excitement and anticipation built among the students. They had worked hard for years to reach this point, and now it was finally time to test their skills. Mr. Hanz, their instructor, stood before them with a serious expression. He reminded them that although the monsters in the mystic realm were not of the highest level, they still posed a danger. He strongly advised them to form groups and do their best to emerge from the realm unscathed.

Some students, already familiar with the rules, quickly formed parties. Others listened attentively to Mr. Hanz's instructions. Before anyone could approach Gabriel about teaming up, a sudden chill filled the air. Everyone turned to see Tigram, one of their classmates, standing with a cold smile on his face. His eyes locked onto the group, hinting at mischief or something more sinister.

As the students eagerly lined up to enter the mystical realm, Tigram followed, waiting patiently for his turn. When it came, he was handed a standard weapon, which was customary for mages like him—even though he was primarily a healer. After considering his options, he chose the same standard weapon his classmates were using. With the weapon in hand, Gabrie braced himself for the challenges ahead in the mystical realm.

[Name: Iron Staff] 

[Type: Staff] 

[Matk: 50 - 85] 

[Rarity: Common] 

[Description: Made of precious minerals, the strong magic adaptability makes its power more stable. It is the mage's best choice.] 

[Durability: 100/100]

With this staff, Gabriel's chances of surviving the assessment had improved.

...

The scene shifted as Gabriel found himself standing on a large circular platform. He took a moment to survey his surroundings, noticing that many of his classmates were present as well. The platform appeared to be the only safe zone in the mystic realm, protected by an array formation designed to create a barrier against any danger the students might face during their assessment.

This assessment was intended to test the students' physical abilities and knowledge. The academy did not wish to put them in harm's way; instead, it sought to measure the results of their years of training and education.

Gabriel looked around and saw that most of his classmates were waiting for their friends to arrive so they could form teams. Unfortunately, Gabriel had no companions. So, he made the decision to leave the platform and head off in a random direction. He knew he would have to rely on his own abilities to survive this assessment, so he moved forward, cautious and determined.