[Next Day.]
The sun had barely begun to crest over the obsidian spires of the academy when the 250 students were gathered. They stood on the central grounds—a vast, paved expanse as large as three football stadiums—facing the three Elders. Hayatobi stood like a statue of tempered steel, Gaga maintained her smile, and the third man, who had yet to utter a single word, loomed behind them like a silent shadow.
Behind the trio, a massive gateway pulsed. It wasn't just light; it was a rhythmic thrum of dense spirit energy that made the very air vibrate.
"Good morning students." Gaga said with a smile, moving her gaze over the crowd.
Her eyes danced with amusement as she surveyed them. Some were clearly half-awake, swaying on their feet, their skin pale and clammy. Having partied all night at the 'welcome feast,' they had forgotten that in an academy like this, comfort is a trap.
