Scene 1: The Calm Before the Test
The sun had barely risen when all first-year students were called to the Grand Combat Hall. The academy was holding its annual Aura Combat Entrance Test to evaluate new entrants' raw power and battle instincts.
Aeron stood quietly at the back, wearing his academy robe and a hood to hide his face.
Az (to Aeron, whispering):
"Big day, buddy. Just try not to destroy the place. Also, if anyone bleeds... don't blame me, blame karma."
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Scene 2: The Plotting Nobles
Three students from high noble families stood in a corner, glaring at Aeron.
Noble 1:
"Who does that peasant think he is, acting so calm?"
Noble 2:
"Ryden's relative or not, he's too suspicious. Let's teach him his place in the combat round."
Noble 3:
"Let's do more than that…"
They smirked, planning to humiliate—or worse—harm Aeron during the combat round.
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Scene 3: The Test Begins
The Principal announced the rules:
1. 1-on-1 aura-based duels.
2. No killing—only knockouts.
But the moment Aeron stepped into the ring... one of the nobles tried to sneak attack outside the rules, unleashing a hidden dagger with a deadly curse spell.
Time slowed.
A mysterious golden circle flickered briefly in the air around Aeron.
Az (in his body now, whispering):
"Nope. Not today."
Before the dagger could strike, a force ripped through space, and the noble's body was hurled into the air—lifeless.
The arena fell silent.
The noble's body disappeared... and reappeared outside the academy gates, wrapped in a silver cloth with only a single message burned into it:
"Violation of Code 77: Instant Erasure."
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Scene 4: Panic and Politics
The next morning, two more noble students—those who were planning with the first—were found dead in their dorms, their faces twisted in horror. Their bodies were quietly returned to their families.
The Academy released a cold official statement:
> "Due to exposure to cursed aura relics brought illegally onto school grounds, three students suffered irreversible effects. We mourn their loss."
But everyone inside knew better.
Az (to readers, crossing arms):
"Reminder: Don't mess with Aeron. Or me. Or mysterious forces of divine vengeance. This ain't your everyday school drama, folks."
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Scene 5: Hidden Conversation
Later, in the shadows, two teachers spoke in hushed voices.
Teacher A:
"Do you think it's him? The one the king warned us about?"
Teacher B (serious):
"He didn't even react... and the protective force didn't seem human."
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Scene 6: Aeron Alone
That night, Aeron stood under the stars.
Aeron (quietly):
"I don't even know what I am anymore."
Az (softly):
"You're what the world feared... and what it needs. Now let's go grab a snack."
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End of Episode 22