Chapter 5: Arrival at New Eldra

Chapter 5: Arrival at New Eldra

The transport vehicle flew smoothly through the air, leaving a trail of dust behind as Sunny and the others stared out the windows, mesmerized by the sight before them. New Eldra was like nothing they had ever seen—an ultra-modern city of towering skyscrapers, neon lights, and bustling crowds. Even amidst the city's brilliance, there was an ever-present sense of vigilance. The threat of the Demon Horde had forced New Eldra to evolve into a fortress, fortified with cutting-edge technology and prepared for battle at any moment.

As their vehicle descended into the heart of the city, it brought them to the steps of the New Eldra Academy, a sprawling campus that radiated both power and prestige. The tallest building, a tower of glass and steel, dominated the academy grounds. This was where their new journey would begin.

"Wow," Serena murmured, taking in the grandeur of the place.

"They sure don't do things halfway here," Jax added, trying to hide his nervousness.

Sunny, as usual, remained quiet. His mind was preoccupied with the weight of his Calamity Mask, the ancient artifact that had bonded with him, linking him to untold power. But he wasn't alone in this—each of his companions had bonded with their own mask, relics of immense strength derived from the essence of ancient demons.

Once the vehicle landed, they were greeted by a stoic academy staff member, who silently motioned for them to follow. The group was led through the academy's sleek corridors, past students in uniform who trained in battle arenas or studied in high-tech classrooms. The academy was a blend of traditional combat training and modern technology, each working hand in hand to prepare its students for the growing threat outside the city.

After several minutes, they arrived at an imposing door labeled Principal's Office. Without a word, their escort opened the door, ushering them inside.

The Principal stood waiting behind a large desk, his sharp, piercing gaze fixed on the group as they entered. He was a tall man, his graying hair and stern expression giving him an air of authority. The windows behind him offered a sweeping view of New Eldra, and the city seemed to stretch out endlessly beneath them.

"Welcome," he said, his voice carrying both strength and gravity. He motioned for them to sit.

Once they were seated, the Principal leaned forward, his eyes scanning each of them. "I assume you're all aware of why you've been summoned here," he began, his tone commanding attention. "Each of you has successfully bonded with one of the Seven Calamity Masks, relics of extraordinary power derived from the essence of Calamity Rank Demons."

There was a brief pause as he allowed the weight of his words to sink in.

"However," the Principal continued, "I want to make something clear. While the Calamity Masks make you unique, this academy has been training Mask Bearers for generations. You are part of a larger group—individuals who, like you, have been chosen to wield great power."

The tension in the room lessened slightly at his words. They weren't carrying the world's burdens on their shoulders alone.

"You will be joining the Elite Class," the Principal explained, his gaze hardening. "This is a group comprised of the academy's most skilled Mask Bearers. They have spent years mastering their abilities, honing their skills to protect humanity from the rising demon threat. You will train with them, grow with them, and learn what it truly means to be a Mask Bearer."

Sunny's attention sharpened. The Elite Class was infamous within the academy, known for its grueling challenges and the incredibly high standards it set for its members. He hadn't expected them to be placed there immediately.

"These masks," the Principal continued, "are not only tools for power—they are dangerous. If not controlled, they could consume you. The Elite Class will provide the training and discipline necessary for you to fully harness this power without falling victim to it."

Reaching into a drawer, the Principal pulled out seven wrist devices—CommWatches—and handed one to each of them.

"These devices will serve as your connection to the academy," he said. "Your class schedules, updates, and mission briefings will be displayed here. Additionally, you will use these to communicate with your instructors and other students. Wear them at all times."

Sunny strapped the CommWatch to his wrist, watching as it powered on and began to display a flood of information. It showed his upcoming schedule, training sessions, and a notification about his placement in the Elite Class.

The Principal's expression grew more serious as he continued. "The Demon Horde has been growing in strength. Their attacks on the outer regions have intensified, and it is only a matter of time before they breach our defenses again. This academy is one of the last bastions against their onslaught. Your training here will be rigorous, and the expectations are high."

He paused, letting his words sink in before adding, "But do not think that you are the only ones fighting this war. There are other Mask Bearers here, each one trained to protect humanity. You will need to prove yourselves, not just to the academy, but to your peers."

Sunny exchanged glances with his companions. They had been chosen to bear the Calamity Masks, but that didn't mean their path was set. They would have to fight for their place, earn the respect of those who had already been training for years.

"One last thing," the Principal said, his tone softening just slightly. "Not everyone will welcome you with open arms. You'll face challenges from within these walls just as you will from the demons outside. But that's part of your training—proving that you deserve the power you've been given."

As they stood to leave, the Principal's final words lingered in Sunny's mind. They had been given a great responsibility, but it wasn't just the demons they would have to fight. The world of Mask Bearers was competitive, and they would have to rise to the top if they wanted to survive.

"We'll see how we measure up soon enough," Sunny muttered as they walked out of the office, a new determination burning in his chest.

Their journey had only just begun.

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