It was midsummer when Aetheria Academy announced the reopening of admissions, five years after the Sweindarg Incident. Determined to prevent a repeat of the past, the Academy abolished its former system of selection.
This time they were going to do it differently, every candidate regardless of their status, noble or peasant would have to take part in an examination conducted by Lord Winger, the wielder of the Concept of Truth. Only those who met the standard would be granted entry.
The announcement spread like wildfire across the Rossvil Kingdom, drawing thousands of candidates eager to prove their worth, and among them was Aero Runivera, a boy from the outskirts of the kingdom, from the small town of Halvin a land of vast grasslands where life was marked by peace and harmony.
Aero began his journey five days prior to the selection. Unlike many others, he possessed a weak Concept...
CONCEPT: NULL
Its capabilities were limited, granting him only enhanced vision in darkness and a passive skill, "Null Zone," which allowed him to sense threats within a short radius of 2 meters. By most standards, it was unremarkable.
But none of that matters... As Aero has only one dream and that dream is to prove that even a person like him can become the strongest in the world.
[Selection Day]
[Aetheria Academy – Front Gate]
Upon arriving at the grand entrance, Aero paused. Overcome with emotion, he collapsed to his knees, tears welling in his eyes.
"I… I finally made it…" he murmured, his voice trembling with relief.
Nearby candidates glanced at him with faint curiosity and dismissal.
"Who is he?"
"Is he crying?"
"Let's move. He's not worth our time."
But Aero was unfazed as he only saw his goal and nothing else, Aero quietly wiped his eyes and steadied himself. Rising to his feet, he composed his expression and walked forward, crossing the gates of Aetheria Academy unaware of the trials that awaited him beyond.