And so… the Aetherial Trials were officially announced. Two long weeks had crawled by, and now the day had arrived.
On paper, it was a test meant to sharpen skills and help students grow. But Veronica knew better. The truth was far more sinister. This tournament wasn't about growth. It was a slaughterhouse.
They were sending students, many still untrained, still clueless—straight into the Abyss. A place no sane person would volunteer to go.
And yes… many were going to die.
Some would vanish without a trace. Others would return broken. Only a few would make it back stronger and even fewer with their lives intact.
"Attention students," a clear voice echoed across the arena, silencing the crowd. A graceful female professor stood at the center, her floral robe flowing gently in the breeze, looking oddly out of place amidst the tension in the air.
"We are pleased to welcome you to this month's event—the Aetherial Trials.
The murmur of students quieted even more.
