Since the Endless Star Territory was extremely vast, the regions were very far apart, and the time zones definitely varied. Consequently, the start times for each area were adjusted accordingly. Instead of beginning simultaneously, all areas scheduled their competitions to start at 8 p.m. local time.
Twelve hours before the competition began, the official groupings would be announced, and at that moment, the registration period would close. The final number of registrants was astonishing, once again setting a new record high, leaving many people secretly stunned.
Like everyone else, Sebastian logged onto the official tournament page to check his grouping. The page displayed:
[ Name: Sebastian ]
[ Region: Endless Star Territory ]
[ Location: Planet Area No. 81 ]
This was the grouping tournament, divided into individual planets. These planets had been developed by the Star Council, primarily for hosting the competition. Each planet was divided into an equal number of participants, who would then battle each other. Only those ranked in the top would qualify for the next stage. The competition to secure these limited spots was fierce, every participant in the group stage could feel the pressure.
Sebastian wasn't worried about the strength of his group. Thanks to the Star Council's capabilities, the groupings weren't simply determined by lottery. Instead, they calculated each participant's strength in advance, ensuring that the groups would be balanced. There would be no "group of death," and top contestants wouldn't face each other prematurely.
Of course, even with the Star Council's precise predictions, mistakes could happen. While Terra's diameter might not compare to that of Level 2 Peak contestants, its population was enormous, far surpassing theirs.
At this moment, the communicator rang. Sebastian looked over and saw that Clifford was calling. After answering, Clifford's figure appeared in front of him, and he spoke straightforwardly: "Sebastian, which planet area are you in?"
"81. And you?" Sebastian asked.
"I'm in number 156. Otwin is in 35, Terrell in 225, and Jane in 406. Haha, we're all scattered," Clifford replied regretfully.
"That's unusual," Sebastian said. "Although the competition isn't overly strict about groupings, the same organization generally tries to avoid putting friends or teammates in the same group."
"Yeah, I know," Clifford shrugged. "But there are so many from our school grouped together. Many are in the same group, so the four of us probably won't be paired. If we're lucky, all five of us could be in the same group, then we could team up like in the exchange competition. Maybe we could even achieve something great!"
"Luck isn't on our side," Sebastian nodded faintly.
He understood Clifford's reasoning. Hope's Peak Academy alone had over 100,000 participants, but only a limited number of groups. Naturally, many students from the same school or faction would be assigned together. Historically, some teams would band together to face stronger opponents. Some schools were fortunate enough to have several members in the same group, allowing them to cooperate strategically. Unfortunately, Clifford's group wasn't among those lucky.
"Just do your best. Try not to finish at the bottom," Clifford said, fist clenched.
It wasn't just Clifford; all forces, large or small, had been divided into groups. Negotiations and alliances formed naturally, participants grouped together, especially those from the same organization, to join forces and increase their chances of success.
In the vastness of the Endless Star Territory, above an enormous planet, a grand hall was filled with rows of Level 2 Planetary Lords, at least 100,000 or more, representing this year's participants in the Group Star Competition.
At the top of a majestic temple, a middle-aged man dressed in yellow was giving a lecture. Around the temple, dozens of Level 6 Planetary Lords stood silently, respectful but cautious. They dared not speak, knowing that this figure was the most powerful being in the Endless Star Territory, the Lord of the Star Kingdom. He had built this kingdom from nothing, establishing the most dominant power in the region. Neither the Federation nor the Empire could compare.
"When I saw all of you," the Lord's voice boomed, "it reminded me of the Group Star Competition I participated in 10,000 years ago." His gaze swept over the assembled Level 2 Lords. "It's often said that the winners are usually those within a hundred years of age, but that's not a certainty. I am living proof of that!"
Many older Lords clenched their fists subtly, recalling the Lord's remarkable achievements. Coming from a humble background, his early qualifications weren't the most impressive. In fact, many geniuses of his era were more talented. Yet, driven by jealousy, he humiliated a disciple of a powerful force, leading to the collapse of his family and a life of hardship.
He endured for years, until 10,000 years ago, when the Group Star Competition appeared, and he reemerged, eventually winning and earning the opportunity to be trained by the Star Council. From then on, he rose swiftly, transforming from a Level 2 Lord into a formidable Level 6 Lord. His revenge was complete: he destroyed the powerful faction that had humiliated him and founded the Star Kingdom.
His legendary deeds had inspired many, especially the older generation, who wondered why so many Level 2 Lords over a hundred years old were participating this year. Part of the reason was the Lord of the Sky Kingdom himself.
"It's not just you, elders," the Lord continued. "Others must also give their all and believe in their convictions. Your primary goal this time is to earn the right to qualify for the next round. Don't overthink everything else. When the time comes, swallow your pride; when it's time to unite, do so. The geniuses out there are no worse than you, especially the ten of you."
He cast his gaze over ten young men and women standing at the front. "With your talent and strength, as long as you stay humble, you could make it into the top 50, or even the top 20."
"Teacher, don't worry," a young man in white declared confidently. "This time, we'll do our best to reach the top ten!"
Of course, he meant the top ten within their region. If considering the entire Endless Star Territory, the competition would be even fiercer, with many more powerful forces involved.
Far from this scene, on a gigantic, volcanic planet, a young man in red sat silently amidst the searing heat, his long hair draping over most of his face. Despite the blazing magma and erupting volcanoes, he remained unaffected. He sat quietly for what seemed like an eternity until an approaching airship caught his attention. Only then did he open his eyes faintly.
"Your Highness, it's time," a voice echoed from inside the airship.
The young man in red rose slowly, boarding the vessel. His gaze fixed toward the depths of the endless starry sky, a flicker of determination shining in his eyes.
"This time, I must reach the top ten. Only then can I become a powerhouse, restore my country, and avenge my parents!"
Meanwhile, far away from this lava planet, seven enormous stars hovered in space. At the center of these stars was a colossal living planet, many times larger than the others. Outsiders passing through would recognize it as the famous Ice Moon Sacred Land, a major power within the Endless Star Territory. Although powerful, they still lagged behind the Council of Stars.
On the edge of the Ice Moon Sacred Land, a cold pool shrouded in mist reflected the sky. Suddenly, a stunning woman with an aloof expression emerged from the water. Four maids waiting nearby quickly dressed her in a white gown before she moved to a small pavilion beside the pool.
Inside, a middle-aged woman sat calmly, exuding authority. She was the leader of the Ice Moon Sacred Land and its strongest figure. Having taken many disciples, only one remained as her true successor, this cold woman.
"Are you prepared?" the elder asked softly.
"I am ready. My body and mind are at their peak," the woman replied.
"Good," the elder nodded gently, her eyes softening. "You are the most talented Saintess we've ever seen, carrying the hopes of countless people. Don't let the pressure overwhelm you, do your best."
"I will do my best to bring first place back to our Sacred Land," the woman vowed.
Yet, despite the Sacred Land's long history of power, many generations of Saintess had lamented their inability to win the top spot.
"First place?" the elder shook her head. "This year's competition is unprecedented, more participants than ever, and many are monsters. Some possess extraordinary talent, some are incredibly lucky, some have access to top-tier resources, and others have profound enlightenment. The Endless Star Territory is vast, full of hidden geniuses waiting to emerge."
She paused. "While you've inherited our heritage and performed outstandingly, you must remain cautious."
"Yes, teacher," the woman nodded earnestly. "I will be careful."
"Remember, you shouldn't be stressed," the elder added gently. "Your talent is exceptional, probably the best I've seen in my lifetime. But there are stronger beings in the Star Council who can train you further. Aim for the top ten, it's enough."
The top ten would be the first group eligible for the Council's elite training program.
"Yes, teacher," the woman answered confidently. "This time, I will rank in the top three!"
It wasn't just the Ice Moon Sacred Land; all major powers across the Endless Star Territory were preparing diligently. Their goal was to achieve notable results, ideally winning the competition and earning a place in the Council's training program.
Remember, the Group Star Competition only occurs once every 10,000 years. Missing it meant missing a lifetime opportunity, no matter how talented you were, few would bother to notice otherwise. This event wasn't just for Level 2 Lords or their allies; it was a rare occasion for anyone aspiring to greatness.
Even before the competition officially started, many students and factions had begun gathering, eager to witness this gathering of geniuses, an event that only happened once in a millennium.
Everyone involved was a prodigy from their region, and their enthusiasm was palpable. Many had friends or classmates participating, making the anticipation even more intense.
At Hope's Peak Academy, the campus was silent, yet the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. The school had even opened a massive arena to host the upcoming battles.