Warlords Academy

[NOTE : i have made some changes to the story, changed power level measurement to tier instead of Ranks so as to not get confused with Class rank and do check out Auxiliary chapter] 

Liam emerged from the depths of the Ethereal dungeon, the resonating echoes of his battle with the shadowy behemoth etching vivid memories in his mind.

Stepping through the portal, a mix of exhilaration and fatigue cascaded over him.

The air beyond the portal was crisp, the sun having dipped below the horizon, casting the land in a soft, ethereal glow.

Liam took a moment to relish the victory, basking in the accomplishment of overcoming the dungeon's myriad trials.

Thoughts of the Warlords Academy consumed his mind, the anticipation of what lay ahead refusing to dissipate.

Upon reaching home, Liam found his mother in the living area.

The holographic interface displayed the stats and skills acquired in the dungeon, and he eagerly shared the details of his journey with her.

His mother listened with a mix of pride and concern, acknowledging the risks but understanding the necessity of Liam's endeavors. "Your determination is admirable, Liam. Just remember always to prioritize your safety," she advised, her eyes reflecting a mother's love and worry.

Liam assured her of his caution, expressing gratitude for her unwavering support. Settling into the comfort of home, he contemplated the challenges awaiting him at the Warlords Academy.

The night passed, and with the first light of dawn, Liam prepared for the journey to the academy.

The anticipation fueled his steps as he approached the imposing gates of the Warlords Academy.

The academy sprawled across a vast expanse, towering structures and training grounds echoing with the sounds of Awakeners honing their skills.

The air buzzed with a sense of purpose, and Liam felt a surge of excitement tinged with a touch of nervousness.

As he navigated bustling corridors, Liam marveled at the diversity of Awakeners, each with unique abilities and backgrounds.

The academy, a melting pot of talents, was the forge of destinies.

While exploring, Liam couldn't help but think of his sister. The prospect of surprising her added an extra layer of excitement.

He decided to keep his presence a secret until the perfect moment.

Among various students engaged in daily routines, Liam sought information on the entrance test's location.

He spotted a student sitting alone with an air of cold detachment.

Blue hair cascaded like a waterfall, complementing piercing blue eyes holding secrets of the deep.

Her beauty was a captivating blend of ethereal charm and an enigmatic aura. Approaching with a polite tone, Liam asked, "Excuse me, do you know where the entrance test is being conducted?"

She glanced at him with a cold look and icy tone. "Follow the path to the west. You'll find it," her words cutting through the air like a chill wind. A shiver traced Liam's spine, but he thanked her and followed her directions.

The entrance test ground unfolded as a vast expanse where students battled monsters to prove their worth. Judges observed, assessing skills and determination.

Liam's moment arrived, the anticipation in the air palpable as he stood face to face with the monster.

A hushed silence draped over the battleground like a heavy curtain, the only audible sound being the soft rustle of leaves carried by a gentle breeze.

The judges, a panel of seasoned Awakeners with eyes that had witnessed countless battles, leaned forward in their seats, their expressions a mix of curiosity and expectation.

One particular judge, a stern-looking man with a long, grizzled beard, raised an eyebrow as he observed the young Awakener before him.

As the monster snarled, revealing jagged teeth and ominous, glowing eyes, Liam felt the tension in the air coalesce.

The creature, an E-rank monster, emanated an aura of raw, untamed energy. Its scales, seemed to ripple with an otherworldly glow.

The battleground itself seemed to hold its breath as Liam, with a sudden burst of energy, unleashed his Radiant Surge .

The arena erupted in a dazzling display of blinding light, casting long, distorted shadows that danced along the edges of the battleground.

The judges, caught off guard by the sheer brilliance, shielded their eyes, momentarily blinded.

Amidst the spectacle, the grizzled judge, now squinting through the radiant onslaught, couldn't help but mutter in astonishment, "By the ancient orbs... What level of skill is this?"

Onlookers, including fellow contestants and a few spectators, exchanged glances of disbelief.

The brilliance of Liam's Radiant Surge not only showcased his formidable power but also hinted at depths of ability uncommon for a Tier-2 Mage.

Alex, a fellow contestant and a level 25 A-rank Mage, could not help but be frightened.

He thought he was already the dark horse, but the revelation that there would be a monster here.

even for an S-class rank awakener it was unsettling since even the most basic ability when they awaken would be of C Rank or D.

In the midst of the radiance, the E-rank monster, crumbled under the onslaught of Liam's power.

Its defeat echoed in the stillness, leaving the battleground in an eerie silence as the residual energy of the battle dissipated.

As the judges regained their composure, the grizzled one, still trying to fathom what he had witnessed, leaned forward and addressed Liam with a raised eyebrow, "Are you sure you're below level 30, lad?"

Liam, catching his breath, met the judge's gaze with unwavering confidence. "Yes, Judge."

Only those below level 30 could apply for academies all over the world since, if you were strong enough, you could apply for guilds and gain your own experience.

Academies were for beginners to mold them into excellence.

The battleground, now a canvas of remnants from the clash, bore witness to the extraordinary and left the onlookers in a state of suspended disbelief.

As the judges began testing others once the preliminary tests were completed, successful contestants, including Liam, were led to the dean's office.

There, they entered a room where a woman with striking red hair awaited—Sophia, the dean, exuding authority and grace as she welcomed them.

"Welcome, esteemed contestants. I am Sophia, your guide through the challenges at the Warlords Academy," she declared, her voice carrying an air of authority.

"As your dean, I wield the prowess of a Tier-7 Warrior, and here, strength is the key to unlocking your true potential."

Sophia, the dean, greeted them with a captivating presence. Her striking red hair flowed gracefully, framing a face adorned with emerald eyes that held both wisdom and strength.

Delicate features sculpted with elegance spoke of a perfect balance between power and grace.

Dressed in an intricate crimson robe adorned with mystical symbols, she commanded attention, her every movement deliberate.

A warm yet mysterious smile played on lips painted in a subtle shade, while ornate jewelry added an opulent touch.

In Sophia's regal welcome, beauty intertwined seamlessly with authority, leaving an unforgettable impression on all who entered her presence.

Sophia laid down the rules governing the battles ahead.

"Rey vs. Anderson

Emma vs. Adrian Blackthorn

Liam vs. Alex Nightshade

Lucas Stormrider vs. Isabella Frostwind..."

The list continued,

Sophia, with a keen gaze, foreshadowed the challenges ahead. "If you perform exceptionally well and prove your worth, we will select you. However, let me be realistic; not everyone will proceed. Excellence is the key, and I don't foresee everyone making the cut," she remarked, utilizing her Analyze skill to assess the potential of each contestant.

Analyzing the room with her A-rank skill Analyze, Sophia discerned strengths and weaknesses, withholding only class information.

The contestants, a mix of anxiety and determination etched on their faces, felt the weight of her scrutiny.

As her analytical gaze swept over Liam, a spark of intrigue illuminated Sophia's eyes.

Utilizing her Analyze skill, she delved into his essence and was taken aback.

She found him to be an E-rank mage, at an astonishing level 4—an anomaly that defied common sense. This revelation heightened her suspicion that Liam might be on the precipice of awakening a class beyond the ordinary S rank, a notion that fascinated and intrigued her.