Arrival at Nova Academy

A clear sky stretched above Nova Academy as the aircraft carrying the new cadets began landing on the main runway. The academy buildings appeared majestic, with futuristic towers emitting blue lights from Etherion Cores. This was not just a place for learning—it was a training ground for elite warriors destined to become humanity's frontline against the Metavores.

Deren stared blankly out of the aircraft window. So, this is the place…

Inside the aircraft, cadets eagerly chatted amongst themselves. Some were still shaken from their experiences at the training camp, while others were excited about what awaited them at the academy. Yet, for Deren, only one question spun repeatedly in his mind: Why am I still here?

When the aircraft finally stopped, they were swiftly guided into the main hall. The hall was expansive, adorned with battle holograms, diagrams of the academy's structure, and the grand emblem of the Aether Corps symbolizing humanity's fight against the Metavores.

At the front stood a sturdy man with silver hair and sharp eyes on a podium. He wore distinguished armor bearing the Rank S insignia. This was Commander Richter, head of the academy.

"Welcome to Nova Academy," his voice echoed through the hall, instantly silencing the cadets. "From today onwards, you are no longer mere exam candidates. You've been accepted as official cadets, and here you will be forged into warriors of the Aether Corps. However, before that, you must understand the hierarchy within this academy."

A large holographic screen activated behind him, showing Nova Academy's ranking system:

Rank D – Support and Logistics

Rank C – Regular Soldiers

Rank B – Soldiers with Core Weapons

Rank A – Elite with Full Armor

Rank A+ – Captains with Hybrid Weapons

Rank S – Legends of the Aether Corps

Richter continued, "Each rank determines the tasks and equipment you'll receive. Rank D is responsible for support units, including logistics, weapon maintenance, and equipment management. From Rank C upwards, you will enter combat units."

Deren listened to the explanation with faint hope. So, if I'm Rank D, I don't need to fight?

But his hopes shattered instantly when Richter added, "Although Rank D focuses on support units, they must still complete basic training and be ready to join the frontlines in emergencies."

Damn it… Deren wanted to cry but could only sigh deeply.

Richter switched the hologram to display equipment. "Now, let's discuss equipment differences based on your ranks."

Rank D – Basic Weapons

Cadets receive standard weapons slightly superior to training models, with no access to Core Etherion-based weapons, only self-defense gear.

Rank C – Standard Combat Weapons

Cadets receive combat-grade weapons without Core but superior in specification to Rank D. They also get standard combat armor providing better protection.

Rank B – Core Weapons

Cadets reaching Rank B are equipped with weapons containing Etherion Cores.

Weapons are tailored to each cadet's combat style, but cadets must control Core energy carefully to avoid harming themselves.

Rank A – Specialized Full Armor

Rank A cadets receive customized full armor based on their abilities.

Armor is stronger, more flexible, and allows prolonged endurance on the battlefield.

Rank A+ – Hybrid Weapons & Colossi Control

Cadets at Rank A+ begin using Hybrid Metavore weapons, integrating human technology and Metavore biology.

They also gain access to Colossi units, large combat robots for special operations.

Rank S – Legends

Only a few achieve Rank S, renowned as the strongest warriors.

They have unrestricted access to all weapons, armor, and advanced technology.

The atmosphere in the hall became tense. Some cadets grew excited about the gear they'd receive, while others began feeling immense pressure.

Kael whispered to Deren, "Deren, I've got to reach Rank B fast! Imagine having a weapon with Core Etherion! It'd make me look awesome in front of the girls!"

Deren looked at him lazily. "Yeah, hopefully, you don't burn yourself alive with your own weapon…"

Meanwhile, Selene and Revand appeared more focused. Their status as talented Rank C cadets meant they could soon take exams to advance to Rank B, pushing them to train harder to master Core-based weapons.

Richter concluded, "Each cadet will be continuously assessed throughout their time at the academy. If you don't improve, you'll remain at your current rank. However, showing sufficient ability could accelerate your promotion."

Deren sighed inwardly. I don't care about rank promotion. If possible, I'd prefer to be demoted and spend my days leisurely in the logistics warehouse.

After the announcement, cadets began discussing among themselves. Nova Academy had just begun, and their journey ahead was long.

Deren stared ahead listlessly. To him, this was the beginning of another form of hell.

—

After the lengthy explanation on ranks and equipment, the cadets were grouped according to their ranks. The hall, previously filled with the loud buzz of conversation, now echoed with the footsteps of cadets heading towards their respective dormitories and training facilities.

Deren walked lazily within the Rank D line, his eyes darting around, looking for an opportunity to perhaps… escape. Yet, he knew that was impossible—especially after noticing how outdated the academy's technology was compared to his own creations.

Pathetic… They're still using these armor systems? Even their Colossi are outdated.

Unconsciously, he compared every piece of equipment at the academy to the advanced technologies he had secretly developed and sold through Lina. Weapons, armor, even their logistical systems were slow and inefficient compared to the inventions he'd made to simplify his life.

Yet, of course, he couldn't reveal that. No one could know that he was the mastermind behind the technology circulating in the underworld.

Meanwhile, Kael and Ryn, both in Rank C, walked excitedly.

"Bro, we're finally real soldiers! Unlike Deren, stuck handling logistics," Kael joked, laughing softly.

Ryn merely nodded. "But still, Deren could rank up if he wanted."

Kael glanced at Deren's resigned expression and chuckled. "Are you kidding? Look at his face, Ryn. Deren's probably the only one here aiming to fail!"

Deren simply snorted in boredom. Life is simple. The less effort you put in, the calmer your life will be.

Selene and Revand, part of the talented Rank C group, walked slightly ahead, more serious and focused, thinking about quickly advancing to Rank B and handling Core-based weaponry.

"I still can't believe we're nearly Rank B," said Revand. "But it means we have to prove we deserve it."

Selene nodded determinedly. "I won't waste this opportunity. I have to keep moving forward."

Deren sighed deeply, hearing his friends' excessive enthusiasm. Why are they so excited? They don't even realize the technology they're chasing is already obsolete.

Dormitory Placement and Facilities

The cadets finally arrived at their dormitory complex. Nova Academy had extensive facilities, organized by rank:

Rank D Dormitory: Located on the academy's outskirts, near the logistics center and equipment workshop. The rooms were basic, containing only a standard bed and a small desk. Rank C Dormitory: Situated closer to the academy's center, with larger rooms and access to additional training facilities. Rank B Dormitory: More exclusive, with access to combat simulators and private training rooms. Rank A & A+ Dormitory: Located at the academy's core, adjacent to the technology development center and Colossi hangars. Rank S Dormitory: Rarely used, as only a select few ever reached this level.

Deren entered his dorm room with a blank expression. The Rank D rooms weren't much different from the barracks at the training camp.

"Well," he muttered, throwing himself onto the bed, "At least I don't have to share a room."

But before he could enjoy his peace, an instructor entered, clipboard in hand.

"Rank D cadets, listen carefully! You may not be part of the combat units, but you still have important responsibilities here. Starting tomorrow, you'll begin technical training—learning equipment maintenance, managing supplies, and supporting combat teams if needed."

Deren looked up lazily. So… there's still work, huh? And here I thought I could relax…

The instructor continued, "Moreover, even though you're not frontline fighters, you'll still need to complete basic physical training and mandatory shooting sessions. You never know when the academy might be attacked."

Hearing this, Deren quickly sat up. "Wait, attacked? You mean the academy could be attacked at any time?"

The instructor paused, then nodded. "Yes. The Metavores are evolving rapidly, and this academy is a strategic target. You all must prepare for the worst."

Deren stared at the ceiling, feeling his world collapsing again. I haven't even started, and I already have to worry about the academy getting attacked? What kind of hell is this?!

First Training

The next day, the cadets were directed to the training grounds. Each rank had different training sessions based on their specialization.

As the training began, Deren watched the Rank B cadets enthusiastically trying their Core-based weapons. Some even struggled to control them.

Observing from afar, he silently scoffed. This technology is outdated. If they tried my weapons, they wouldn't even need to manually balance the energy like that.

While others were busy figuring out their new equipment, Deren stood casually, deliberately avoiding doing anything to escape notice. However, he couldn't suppress his frustration seeing how far behind the academy's technology was compared to his creations.

Damn it, I need to make sure Lina doesn't distribute my stuff too widely. Otherwise, I might get caught… he thought.

Meanwhile, Selene and Revand seemed more serious. They carefully tried controlling their Core-based weapons, unlike Kael, who looked like a child with a new toy.

Kael glanced at Deren. "Aren't you going to try something? At least shoot at something!"

Deren gave a faint smile. "No need. I already know how all of this works."

Kael and Ryn stared at him in confusion, but before they could ask further, the instructor called them for the next exercise.

Training continued, and the cadets began to realize Nova Academy wasn't just an educational institution—it was a battlefield before the real battles began.

Deren just hoped for one thing… that his days here wouldn't get more annoying. But deep down, he knew it was just wishful thinking.

The first days at Nova Academy felt like a repetition of the torture from the training camp. Endless training, evaluations, and instructions kept the cadets busy adapting to a system far stricter than before. For Deren, this was just another test in his laziness-filled life, one he intended to pass with minimal effort.

That afternoon, on the training grounds, Rank C cadets began testing their new equipment. Their weapons were better than training gear but still not Core Etherion-based. Kael and Ryn were especially enthusiastic about their new weapons—Kael chose a large sword, while Ryn opted for a double-bladed spear.

Kael swung his sword confidently. "HAHA! Check this out, Deren! I'm like a legendary hero!"

Deren, sitting on a bench near the training area, simply stared blankly. "More like a kid with a new toy…"

Ryn struggled to balance his spear. "This is heavier than I expected…"

Kael laughed. "Relax, you just need practice! Look at me, I'm almost mastering it!"

However, at that very moment, Kael swung his sword too quickly, lost his balance, and nearly fell. Deren sighed, not surprised at all.

On the other side of the arena, Selene and Revand were testing their Core Etherion-based weapons. Unlike Kael and Ryn, they appeared serious but still faced difficulties.

Revand tightly gripped his Core Etherion sword, struggling to control its energy flow. "The control is tough… too much energy makes this sword heavier…"

Selene adjusted her weapon, sparks of Core energy uncontrollably escaping. "I feel like I'm going to blow myself up every time I use it…"

Kael and Ryn, having finished their practice with training dummies, glanced their way.

"Wow… that looks cool… but also really dangerous," Kael said, amazed.

Ryn nodded. "I didn't expect Core-based weapons to be so difficult."

Deren, still sitting casually, sighed deeply and said, "It's easy if you just use your brain."

The three immediately turned to him in disbelief.

Kael laughed. "Haha! Deren, you've never even touched a Core-based weapon. How can you say it's easy?"

Ryn shook his head. "He's just joking… or maybe he's talking nonsense from sleeping too much."

Deren just gave a faint smile, not responding further. If I showed them how easy it is for me, they'd get suspicious. Better to keep quiet.

Their conversation was interrupted by an announcement from the instructor appearing on the large holographic screen.

"Attention all cadets! In three days, you will face your first examination as Nova Academy cadets. Prepare yourselves thoroughly."

Deren immediately felt his world crumble again. "What? Another exam? Didn't we just go through hell in the training camp?"

Kael and Ryn laughed quietly at his frustrated expression.

"Deren, this is just the beginning," Ryn said, patting his shoulder.

Kael added, "You'd better get used to it! Who knows, maybe there will be exams every week?"

Deren closed his eyes, silently complaining. Fate really hates me…

Nighttime – Shattered Peace

After an exhausting day, Deren finally returned to his room in the Rank D dormitory. It was the only place where he felt he could have a little peace.

He lay on his bed and sighed in relief. "Finally… peace and quiet… far from Kael and Ryn… far from exams… I can enjoy life unnoticed in this corner of the academy…"

However, just as he started to relax—BAM!

His door burst open. Kael and Ryn entered excitedly.

"DEREN! We've got some crazy news for you!"

Deren immediately sat up, staring at them with a weary expression. "Why are you two here?"

Kael and Ryn sat down on the floor without invitation.

"You know, we saw Revand and Selene controlling their Core-based weapons earlier, and it looked really difficult! It seems we're still a long way from using them!" Kael laughed.

Ryn nodded. "But they're really talented. It didn't take them long to start getting used to it."

Deren rubbed his face. "And why exactly did you come to my room in the middle of the night just to tell me this?"

Kael laughed. "Because we're a team, bro! Plus, we need motivation from the most unmotivated person in the academy!"

Deren stared at them blankly. "I don't know if I should feel honored or insulted."

Ryn laughed. "Deren, you're really mysterious. You never seem to try, yet you still pass every test. Maybe you're actually a genius hiding his talents?"

Deren sighed deeply. They have no idea how right they are… But of course, he would never admit it.

"I'm just lucky," he answered calmly. "Now, could you please leave? I want to sleep."

Kael and Ryn glanced at each other, then laughed. "Alright, alright! But remember, our first exam is just three days away! Don't sleep through it!"

After they left, Deren lay back on his bed, staring at the ceiling.

Three days until the first exam at Nova Academy… he thought.

He sighed again. "Fate really doesn't want me to have a peaceful life, does it?"

The next day, the atmosphere at Nova Academy was still filled with cadets busy training and preparing for the upcoming exams. Yet, among them, one person still seemed unsettled—Selene.

She walked swiftly through the academy hallways, eyes searching for someone: Deren. Ever since their interaction the previous night, something had been bothering her. Deren's words haunted her thoughts.

She found him sitting lazily on a bench in the academy's back garden, appearing as indifferent as usual. He seemed to be enjoying the afternoon air, probably hoping for an early nap.

Selene stood in front of him, staring seriously. "Deren."

Deren opened one eye, sighed, and muttered, "I feel like this is going to be a long conversation…"

Ignoring his reluctance, Selene sat down beside him. "I want to ask you something."

Deren glanced at her lazily. "If it's about exams or training, I'm not interested."

Selene ignored his response. "Why don't you ever put in effort like everyone else?"

Deren shrugged. "Because I don't need to."

Selene stared at him sharply. "That's not what I meant. Everyone at this academy tries their best to become stronger to protect others, to fight the Metavores, to save humanity. Why aren't you doing the same? Don't you care?"

Deren sighed, gazing up at the sky. He knew this conversation would come sooner or later.

"What's the point of dying as a hero?" he said casually. "Isn't that ridiculous? People use you as a shield, a tool. Then, once you're dead, they'll just find someone else to replace you. You'll end up as a memory that slowly fades away."

Selene fell silent, her expression shifting. Deren's words pierced something deep within her. Memories of her father flashed through her mind.

Flashback – Selene and Her Father

Selene was young when she first realized how harsh a warrior's life could be. Her father, an elite Aether Corps soldier, was a hero to many. He always taught her that protecting humanity was a duty that must be carried out without hesitation.

"Dad, why do you have to go and fight all the time?" little Selene asked as her father prepared to head to the frontline.

Her father smiled gently, patting her head. "Because there are people who need protecting. If we don't fight, no one will survive."

At that time, Selene believed her father wholeheartedly. She idolized him, promising herself that one day she'd become a warrior as strong as he was.

However, everything changed when a major mission involved her father. He and his team faced a high-tier Metavore, one that was supposed to be unbeatable. Her father made the ultimate decision to sacrifice himself so that the others could escape safely.

Young Selene waited at the academy, hoping her father would return as a hero.

But all she received was bitter reality.

The news she heard wasn't praise or respect for her father's sacrifice, but accusations of betrayal.

"Your father abandoned his post, causing many lives to be lost.""There's a possibility he was working with the underworld.""He wasn't a hero; he was a coward."

Selene couldn't believe it. How could someone who had sacrificed himself be branded a traitor? Nobody truly cared about her father's struggle. Everyone only judged the outcome without understanding the real situation.

From that moment on, Selene vowed to prove that her father's sacrifice wasn't in vain. She would become stronger, capable of defeating the strongest Metavores, and she would never be seen as weak or a traitor.

And that was why she was so determined to defeat a Tier 5 Metavore.

Back to the Conversation with Deren

Selene clenched her fists, her eyes filled with anger.

"So you think everyone who fights on the frontline is a fool?" Her voice trembled.

Deren looked at her calmly. "No, I'm simply saying they've chosen a different path from mine. If you want to fight, go ahead. I don't care."

Selene stood up quickly, still glaring angrily. "Then prove your words! I challenge you to a fight."

Deren sighed deeply. "I'm not interested."

"Too scared?"

Deren narrowed his eyes. "No. I just don't want to waste energy on something meaningless."

Selene refused to back down. "You say you don't want to live like a soldier fighting without purpose, yet you also refuse to prove yourself. If that's the case, you're just a coward hiding behind your laziness."

Deren was silent for a moment. He knew Selene was deliberately provoking him, but he truly disliked dealing with these matters. Still, he also knew Selene wouldn't stop until she got what she wanted.

Finally, he stood up and looked at her with a blank expression. "Fine. One round. But on one condition."

Selene narrowed her eyes. "What is it?"

"If I win, you'll stop bothering me," Deren said calmly. "No more training, no more debates, no more annoying questions."

Selene clenched her fists tighter. "Agreed."

Deren yawned. "Alright, let's get this over with quickly."

The two of them decided to fight that night, secretly, in the open training arena without anyone else knowing.