Chapter 15: First Encounters and Embarrassment
The Grand Hall was abuzz with whispers and hushed conversations as the first-year SS-level talents gathered. Lyra Evercrest stood at the front of the hall, her emerald eyes scanning the crowd with a calm yet commanding gaze. The towering stained glass windows cast colorful patterns on the polished marble floor, adding an air of solemnity to the occasion.
Aric and Leon stepped into the hall, both dressed in the academy's formal robes. Leon's eyes widened as he took in the sight of so many powerful students assembled in one place. Aric's gaze, however, remained cool and calculating, as he subtly assessed each of the SS-level talents.
"First-year SS-level talents," Lyra began, her voice carrying through the hall, "you have been gathered here to meet your fellow elites. These individuals represent the strongest and most talented prodigies from each of the three empires."
As she spoke, Leon's eyes darted around the room, and when they landed on Elara Vaeloria, his breath caught in his throat. Standing amidst the other mages, Elara was an ethereal beauty with silver hair cascading down her back like a river of moonlight. Her violet eyes sparkled with a mysterious light as she conversed with Iris Alaric and Nyx Raelthorne.
Leon nudged Aric's arm. "Hey, look at her," he whispered, unable to tear his gaze away. "She's... wow."
Aric followed Leon's line of sight, his expression neutral. "Elara Vaeloria," Aric said, feigning a lack of interest. "She's from the Solaris Empire."
Leon nodded, his cheeks flushed. "I've never seen anyone so... perfect."
Aric gave a nonchalant shrug. "If you say so."
Before Leon could respond, Lyra continued, "Today, you will be introduced to one another and given a brief overview of the initiation trials. These trials will determine the class representative — the top student among you, who will hold influence over your peers and receive special privileges."
Aric's interest piqued. The position of class representative would be the perfect cover to gain influence while maintaining his facade of a loyal, supportive friend to Leon.
"Now, let's begin with introductions," Lyra said, stepping aside as the SS-level talents began to mingle.
Aric placed a hand on Leon's shoulder and said, "Let's go say hi to everyone."
Leon nodded, though his eyes kept drifting back to Elara. Together, they approached the group of SS-level talents, with Aric leading the way.
"Hey, everyone," Aric greeted with a calm smile, his dark eyes glinting as he made eye contact with each of them. "I'm Aric Everhart, from Astravell Empire. This is Leon Valcrest, also from Astravell."
Iris Alaric, with her mesmerizing green eyes and raven-black hair, gave a polite nod. "Iris Alaric, Solaris Empire."
Selene Frostbane, the strikingly beautiful ice mage with icy blue hair and frosty eyes, crossed her arms and nodded tersely. "Selene Frostbane, Solaris Empire."
Caelum Drakos, with his wild, flame-tinted hair and fierce golden eyes, grinned. "Caelum Drakos. You guessed it — Solaris."
Nyx Raelthorne, a dark-haired girl with haunting silver eyes, merely smirked. "Nyx Raelthorne. Bloodstone Empire."
Vesper Thorn and Mira Falken, both from Bloodstone, stood nearby. Vesper, the spear-wielder with sharp, violet eyes and a predatory grin, simply eyed Aric with mild interest. Mira, the shield and sword specialist with auburn hair and a muscular build, gave a nod.
Aric's gaze shifted back to Elara. She was even more breathtaking up close, her silver hair shimmering under the stained glass light. But Aric kept his expression neutral, as though she was no different from the rest.
"Nice to meet you all," Aric said smoothly. "I look forward to seeing what everyone is capable of during the trials."
Aric and Leon continued to move through the crowd, with Aric maintaining his calm and composed demeanor. When they reached Elara's group, Aric put on his most pleasant smile.
"Elara, right?" Aric said smoothly. "I've heard a lot about you. You seem to have quite the reputation already."
Elara raised a brow, her violet eyes regarding him with mild curiosity. "And you are?"
"Aric Everhart," he said, extending a hand. "This is Leon Valcrest, my closest friend."
Leon blushed, his eyes darting between Aric and Elara. "Uh, hi. You're... really talented."
Elara's smile was polite but indifferent. "Thank you."
Aric's smile remained, but inside, he was already analyzing the dynamic. Leon was clearly smitten, his infatuation palpable. This was the perfect opportunity to subtly sabotage him.
"Leon's actually really impressive too," Aric said smoothly. "You should show her that trick you were practicing earlier."
Leon's eyes widened, clearly flustered. "Oh, um, yeah! Sure!"
Leon attempted to gather his mana, but his nerves betrayed him. The flame he tried to conjure flickered weakly before sputtering out. Nyx Raelthorne snickered, and Selene rolled her eyes.
Elara's expression remained neutral, but there was a slight hint of disinterest. Leon's face flushed crimson.
Aric clapped Leon on the back. "Don't worry, man. You'll get it next time."
Leon forced a shaky smile, clearly mortified.
Satisfied, Aric turned his attention back to the rest of the group, a calculated glint in his eyes. This was only the beginning. He would establish himself as the friendly, charismatic one — and let Leon embarrass himself while Aric quietly rose to prominence.
Meanwhile, Lyra Evercrest's voice echoed through the Grand Hall once more. "Now that you're all acquainted, let me explain the initiation trials."
The room fell silent, and the SS-level talents focused on her, expressions ranging from determined to indifferent.
"There will be three stages," Lyra continued. "The first stage will test your mana control and spellcasting precision. The second will be a combat simulation where you will face off against summoned constructs designed to replicate real-life battle scenarios. The third stage is a team battle royale — you will be grouped with other talents and must work together to eliminate opposing teams."
Aric's eyes gleamed. This was it. The perfect opportunity to showcase his skills and set the tone for his reputation at Aetherion Academy.
"The student who performs best in all three stages will be declared the class representative," Lyra finished. "Prepare yourselves. The trials begin tomorrow."
The room erupted into whispers as students discussed the trials. Aric maintained his calm, collected demeanor, his mind already strategizing how he would dominate the trials — and how he could subtly ensure Leon's continued embarrassment.