For the first time, Ariv saw them clearly.
The gods.
Kaivara stood tall, his golden armor shimmering with light that seemed to pierce the soul. His presence was not just seen — it was felt, like the warmth of a thousand suns pressed gently upon the heart. Every step he took resonated through the marble floor of the Grand Hall.
Ariv's breath caught for a moment. This was not just strength — it was the very essence of divinity.
The hall fell into complete silence as a deep, ceremonial voice rang out:
"Our Majesty, the Invincible Flame, God of War — Kaivara!"
Kaivara stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the crowd.
"People of Atherion," his voice boomed, steady yet warm, "another year marks the day when the bonds between our realms grow stronger. We stand not as rulers above you, but as guardians beside you. May every soul here find the courage to protect what they cherish, and the will to rise when the path grows dark."
The hall erupted in applause and cheers.
Then, the announcer's voice rose again:
"Now… the God of Reality — our Majesty, the Mightiest — Eryon!"
Eryon's arrival felt different. His aura was not heavy or burning; it was vast and infinite, as though the air itself bent to make way for him. His eyes were calm, yet carried the depth of endless skies.
As he stepped forward, his gaze drifted across the crowd — and for a brief moment, his eyes met Ariv's.
It was not a lingering stare, yet in that instant, Ariv felt as though Eryon had seen straight into his very core. The sensation was neither threatening nor comforting… only vast, as if the entire weight of reality had acknowledged his existence.
Eryon began to speak, his tone even and serene.
"In every breath, in every thought, in every step you take — reality shapes itself around you. Let this day remind you… that the world is as strong as the hearts that live within it. Stand firm, and reality itself will stand with you."
A second wave of applause filled the hall.
Then the announcer's voice returned once more, clear and formal:
"Now… to the four new students, their posts will be granted by the Two Majesties."
Ariv, Rohit, Neel, and Vaishnavi felt the eyes of the gods upon them.