Training ground C-7 bustled with movement as Kaen's team arrived for their first official session as second-years. The sun was still rising, casting long shadows across the worn stone tiles. Instructors circled the field, watching each group closely, measuring aura output, combat stance, and teamwork without saying a word.
Lirien stood at the center of the field like a black flame, her white hair flowing behind her, red eyes scanning each student. No longer just a feared SSS-rank hunter, she was now an official part of the Academy staff—and the personal combat instructor for Kaen's group.
Kaen strolled to the center without a word. Zian followed beside him, the subtle flickers of her shadow army keeping pace in the corner of her eyes. Mira yawned, tying her gauntlets tighter. Leon looked both ready and nervous, while Kyel had already drawn his practice sword, loosening his shoulders.
Selene stood apart, arms crossed. "This should be fun."
Rin lingered at the back, her barrier glyphs glowing softly in preparation.
Rayden rolled his shoulders. "So… what's the first challenge?"
Lirien answered without looking at him. "Survive."
At her signal, the training grounds shifted. The floor opened in segments and dark-armored training puppets emerged, taller than any human, enchanted with low-level aggression runes and A-rank strength enhancers.
Zian summoned her shadow dagger.
"Formation four," Kaen said lazily, stepping aside as a puppet lunged at him—only to get torn apart mid-air by a single wave of Zian's shadows.
Selene launched a flashbomb of holy light into the puppets, blinding three. Mira blasted the stunned ones with kinetic energy, sending them flying.
"Nice coordination," Lirien said quietly. "But don't rely on one another too much. Out there, separation is inevitable."
Kyel and Rayden took the front, clashing with two puppets in sync. Leon flanked left, disabling another with a precise spear thrust, while Rin reinforced the group with layered barriers.
Kaen didn't move until one puppet tried to sneak up behind him. With a slight movement of his wrist, the puppet collapsed into shadow ash.
Lirien's eyes narrowed—not with concern, but with interest.
"Still holding back, Kaen?"
He smirked. "Always."
From above, the Headmaster watched through a crystal orb.
This class was no ordinary team—and everyone could feel it.