Lunch

-Antaeus's POV-

The sight of Nailah, her figure ablaze with the dark tendrils of Inferna, left a profound impression on me. Her awakening had sent ripples through the entire Academy, and even someone as composed as me couldn't help but feel a stir of curiosity and intrigue.

The Dean's stern voice caught my attention, commanding the room's focus. "The tests are completed," he announced, his tone unwavering. "Only 200 out of the 1000 applicants have managed to make it into the Academy."

A heavy silence settled over the hall, the weight of the Dean's words sinking in. The dreams of 800 young souls had been extinguished in the face of the Academy's rigorous standards.

"It's not the end for those who didn't make it," The Dean continued, his voice cutting through the silence. "You can try again when you reach the age of 15. However, if you fail, you'll have no choice but to join the Mercenary Guild and learn Combat Arts or other professions from them."

I took in his words and observed the various reactions among the applicants. Many who had failed, although unwilling, sighed with relief at the possibility of a second chance.

Inwardly, I expressed my gratitude to Alkebulan for granting me power over all elements, saving me from a fate similar to theirs, both now and in the future due to the curse that haunted me.

"But why should we fail just because we can't use Astral Energy right now?" The challenging voice cut through the heavy air, the frustration behind it palpable.

The speaker, an older boy nearing the end of his chances, voiced the collective doubts lingering in the minds of those who hadn't made the cut. It was a question that begged for an answer, a plea for fairness and understanding.

The Dean's gaze shifted to the boy, his expression inscrutable. Silence stretched taut, the room suspended in anticipation, the tension hanging thick as if it could be sliced with a blade.

"Your question is valid," the Dean acknowledged, his voice carrying the weight of responsibility. "Astral Energy is indeed a fundamental aspect of our training here at the Academy. However, you must understand that we operate under limited resources.

We can only nurture the most promising talents. Body Ascendors, in particular, demand a significant allocation of resources, resources we must gather from perilous territories surrounding our city."

The explanation hung in the air, illuminating the difficult choices the Academy had to make to maintain its standards and prepare the next generation of magical practitioners.

"Those who possess the determination to overcome their limitations will find a way," the Dean continued, his tone softening, infused with a glimmer of encouragement.

"Remember, true strength isn't merely about one's abilities. It's about the indomitable spirit that refuses to yield even in the face of daunting challenges."

"Now, let's take a break before we convene with the next segment. It's now 12 pm. Lunch will be served at the buffet section," The Dean announced, his voice cutting through the lingering tension in the hall. The space around him warps with a wink, swallowing his body.

Avery, who was next to me asked as her eyes filled with an amused expression.

"Hey, Antaeus, isn't it kind of weird how we have to prove ourselves using Astral Energy?" Avery asked, her tone playful. I glanced at her, nodding in agreement.

"Yeah, it's like they expect us to be experts already," I replied, rolling my eyes. "We're just kids, after all."

Avery chuckled, her carefree spirit evident. "True, but I guess they want to find the best of the best. Still, it feels like a lot of pressure, doesn't it?"

I nodded, happy at her straightforward perspective. "Definitely. Let's just hope lunch is good. I could use a break from all this seriousness."

We shared a laugh, our conversation shifting to lighter topics as we made our way to the buffet section. Walking past the seated audience, I observed the meticulous arrangement.

The attendees were seated based on their importance, with the noble families occupying grand private booths adorned with opulent decor.

However, some preferred the proximity to the front and had reserved front-row seats, displaying their status with an air of prestige.

The hall buzzed with a mix of excitement and anticipation, the lively chatter of the audience filling the air as they discussed the previous tests and eagerly awaited the upcoming segment of The Jorin Test.

The delightful aroma of the buffet wafted towards us, tempting my senses and igniting a sudden hunger within me.

Yet, before I could indulge, a servant dressed in impeccable uniform approached with a quiet grace, exuding an air of poise and elegance.

"Prince Antaeus, your parents are requesting you to join them in their viewing booth," his voice respectful, barely rising above the ambient murmur of the hall. With a graceful gesture, he directed my attention upwards to the elevated viewing booth located at the back of the Academy hall.

The booth was a spectacle of opulence, its allure heightened by the presence of plush cushions and intricate embellishments.

Positioned on a balcony overlooking the lively activities below, it offered a commanding view of the bustling hall.

Understanding the request, I nodded calmly, dismissing the servant with a polite acknowledgment. Turning to Avery, I offered a warm smile.

"Would you like to join us, Avery? I'm eager for you to meet my family, and I'm keen on learning more about my new friend."

Avery accepted my offer with an excited smile, her eyes alight with anticipation. The radiance of her countenance accentuated her beauty, and after discovering her true gender, I was eager to unravel the mystery behind her disguise as a boy. This presented the perfect opportunity to delve into her story.

"Sure, I'd love to," she responded cheerily, her voice carrying the same enthusiasm that lit up her eyes.

"However," she added with a pause, her tone thoughtful, "I arrived with my father and mother." Her gaze shifted towards a tall, handsome man with long hair and a goatee, streaked with strands of white.

He smiled in our direction and gave a friendly wave, confirming his presence as her father.

Acknowledging this, I gave a subtle nod. "Not a problem at all. I'm sure my parents would be happy to welcome your parents as well."

Avery's face lit up with a warm smile, and in a moment of unexpected boldness, she grabbed my hand. I was startled by the sudden physical contact, feeling my face flush with warmth. Mentally chastising myself, I steadied my composure.

I followed behind Avery, who waved back to her father as she practically dragged me in her excitement toward him.

As we approached Avery's father, he extended a hand in greeting, his eyes twinkling with warmth and kindness.

"Avery, my son, who is this charming young man accompanying you?" he inquired, his voice carrying the same friendliness that radiated from his smile.

Avery beamed at her father. "Dad, meet Prince Antaeus, my new friend from the Academy. Antaeus, this is my father, Lord Cedric," she introduced me with enthusiasm.

Surprise flickered within me; to hold the title of Lord, one had to possess formidable power, likely at the Peak Earth Astral Realm Layer 1. Advancing through the stages was no easy feat for those lacking talent and resources.

The mere mention of Lord Cedric's title of lord, hinted at his immense strength, such people were capable of overpowering armies of Mortal Astral Realm Layer 6 Peak.

I couldn't help but scoff inwardly at the sheer magnitude of their destructive power.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Lord Cedric," I said, offering a respectful nod.

Lord Cedric's eyes held a twinkle of amusement as he shook my hand. "The pleasure is mine, Prince Antaeus. Avery has been looking forward to making friends at the Academy, and it seems he has found a wonderful companion in you."

Gratitude and slight embarrassment washed over me at his kind words. "I'm honored to be his friend," I replied sincerely, appreciating the warmth of his welcome.