Ranking Exams

Lucian adjusted his collar, the smooth fabric of his tailored coat fitting perfectly on his shoulders.

His dark hair was neatly combed back, and his crimson eyes gleamed with a sharp focus.

The faint scent of cologne lingered in the air, subtle yet elegant.

He wasn't one to care much about appearances in his past life, but today was different.

He glanced at his reflection in the mirror.

His features were striking: a sharp jawline, well-defined cheekbones, and eyes that carried an intensity far beyond his years.

"So, this is what the world sees now," he murmured with a smirk.

Lucian turned away from the mirror, grabbing his satchel.

Everything was in place—his ID, registration papers, and a few other essentials.

He had planned this day meticulously, even booking a cab in advance to ensure no delays.

The ride to the academy was a quiet yet eye-opening experience.

Lucian leaned against the window, watching the world outside. The streets were bustling with activity.

Shops lined the sidewalks, their windows displaying everything from mana crystals to enchanted gadgets.

Tall buildings stretched toward the sky, their architecture blending traditional stonework with futuristic mana-powered designs.

Vehicles zipped by some running on engines, others gliding silently with the faint hum of magic.

'A semi-modern world,' Lucian thought, marveling at the blend of technology and magic.

This world had its unique charm, a fusion of progress and tradition.

Children played with small mana-driven toys, while street vendors sold snacks infused with low-grade mana for a quick energy boost.

Even the air seemed to buzz faintly with magic, a constant reminder that this was a world unlike his own.

"It's beautiful in its own way," Lucian muttered to himself.

The cab turned a corner, and the view shifted to something grander.

The academy came into sight—a sprawling campus with towering spires and massive gates.

The intricate runes etched into the stone walls shimmered faintly, a testament to the powerful enchantments protecting the institution.

The cab came to a stop.

Lucian stepped out, his gaze sweeping over the bustling crowd.

Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of students were gathered near the entrance, their expressions ranging from nervousness to excitement.

Navigating through the crowd, Lucian kept his composure.

His noble bearing drew attention, but he ignored the curious glances and whispered comments.

His destination was clear—the registration desk.

The process was efficient.

A staff member took his ID and checked it against the records.

Moments later, Lucian's name appeared on a glowing screen.

"Eryndral, Lucian. Waiting list: 12," the staff member announced.

Lucian raised an eyebrow.

He knew the ranking system favored the powerful families, but seeing his name so high on the list, despite arriving late, was surprising.

'The perks of being from one of the seven great families,' he thought. He glanced at the list.

The first 11 names were all from other great families or influential organizations.

While he had no intention of relying on his family's name, he couldn't deny that it opened doors.

Lucian moved to the waiting area, where dozens of other students were seated.

Some were reviewing their notes, others practicing mana techniques, and many simply sat nervously, fidgeting with their hands.

The tension in the air was palpable. He scanned the room, taking in the various expressions.

A few students were already sweating, their anxiety getting the better of them.

Others tried to mask their fear with forced confidence.

'This is a big day for them,' Lucian thought.

The ranking test would determine their initial placement in the academy and their standing among peers.

For many, it was a matter of pride—or survival.

Lucian, however, felt calm.

His training in the tower had prepared him for challenges far greater than this.

After what felt like an hour, his number was finally called.

"Examinee number 12, please proceed to the examination room."

Lucian stood, exhaling a long breath.

He adjusted his coat, squared his shoulders, and walked toward the examination hall.

As he approached the massive double doors, they creaked open slowly, revealing a dimly lit room beyond.

The air was cool, and a faint hum of mana filled the space.

Lucian stepped inside, his footsteps echoing against the stone floor.

The doors closed behind him with a resounding thud, sealing him inside.

The room was vast, its size far greater than it appeared from the outside.

Runes glowed faintly along the walls, casting an otherworldly light.

At the center of the room stood a circular platform, its surface etched with intricate patterns.

The hum of mana grew stronger as Lucian approached, his senses tingling with anticipation.

Across the room, a stern-looking examiner sat at a high desk, their gaze fixed on Lucian as if appraising him before he had even begun.

Behind the examiner, several magical constructs stood motionless, their forms varied and menacing—each designed to test a specific skill or ability.

"Lucian Eryndral," the examiner's voice rang out, calm yet commanding.

"You may step onto the platform when ready.

Your test will assess your mana control, combat proficiency, and adaptability under pressure.

Remember, this is not only a test of strength but of your potential."

Lucian nodded silently, his expression composed.

As he stepped onto the platform, the runes beneath his feet flared to life, creating a barrier around the area.

The examiner's voice echoed again.

"Begin."

The atmosphere shifted instantly.

Lucian could feel the pressure building around him as mana began to condense in the air.

The constructs sprang to life, their movements fluid and precise as they surrounded him.

Lucian's crimson eyes narrowed. He hadn't come this far to falter now.

His hands tightened around the hilt of his sword. This was the moment he had prepared for.