Chapter 198 - 198: Award ceremony!

Words : 1243 Updated : Sep 23rd, 2025

The next day marked the long-awaited ceremony, and the first years were up early, dressed impeccably in their academy uniforms. Their blue and silver robes shimmered faintly under the morning sun, the colors symbolizing Lunaria's proud legacy. Grey stood in front of his room, his hair neatly combed, his posture relaxed but his sharp eyes betraying a quiet intensity. Around him, other students waited as teleportation mages moved efficiently, pairing them two at a time before casting shimmering spells that whisked them away. It didn't take long before it was Grey and Raze's turn. In the blink of an eye, the world around them twisted and stretched—and then snapped back into place. They opened their eyes to find themselves inside an awe-inspiring structure: the Grand Ceremonial Hall of Lunaria Academy. The hall was a marvel of magical architecture, a breathtaking fusion of artistry and sorcery. The vaulted ceiling soared high above, supported by intricate arches from which massive crystal chandeliers floated, casting a soft, golden glow over the vast chamber. The white marble walls gleamed, etched with ancient runic engravings that pulsed faintly, as though breathing in tune with the academy's magic. At the forefront of the hall stood an elevated stage, guarded by two towering arcane pillars that crackled with restrained energy. Above the stage, a colossal tapestry swayed gently—a crescent moon cradled by a ring of shimmering stars, the sacred emblem of Lunaria Academy, symbolizing the pursuit of wisdom and the relentless reach for power. Rows of ornate silver chairs spread out in a grand semi-circle, facing the stage. Searᴄh the novёlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Each seat bore insignias representing the academy's various factions—first-years, second-years, senior students, instructors, and distinguished high-ranking officials. At the very center, a prestigious section awaited honored guests: nobles, renowned mages, and even envoys from the royal court. Majestic stained-glass windows flanked the hall, depicting legendary battles, heroic figures, and epoch-defining moments in vivid colors that danced across the polished obsidian floor. Toward the rear of the hall, a sweeping staircase spiraled up to a balcony where the principal and other prominent figures would soon appear, watching over the ceremony from a place of honor. The very air vibrated with a solemn energy, as if the hall itself carried the memories of triumphs and sacrifices spanning centuries. Today, a new name would be etched into that legacy—Kael's. And the students who returned alive would be honored for their valor. Grey stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the gathering. He spotted the second-years who had accompanied them on the raid—friends, allies, and others invited for different reasons. In total, about twenty-five students filled the ceremonial space, a mix of first and second years. Dave was among them, chatting animatedly with two others. When Grey and Vince entered, Dave's gaze met Grey's for a fleeting second—only to turn away with a scoff. The hall buzzed with chatter, students swapping stories and speculations. Grey moved silently through the murmuring crowd, settling into a chair as his friends gradually gathered around him. "I thought this ceremony was supposed to be for those of us who went on the raid," Arthur muttered, shifting uneasily under the withering gazes of some second-years. "Maybe the authorities want to make a spectacle of it," Scarlet shrugged, her crimson hair catching the golden light as she crossed her arms casually. The noise continued until a deep thud echoed from above—the balcony doors swung open. One by one, the high-ranking personnel of Lunaria Academy emerged. First came Amir, captain of the Lunaria squad, his brown hair flowing freely like a banner caught in a gentle breeze. A warm, easygoing smile was etched on his face, though the glint in his eyes spoke of experience earned on bloody battlefields. Next was an unfamiliar figure—a high-ranking squad member unknown to the students. His expression was grim, his steps measured as he strode forward with authority. Instructor Von followed, his bald head gleaming under the chandelier light. His gaze was sharp and assessing, missing nothing as he surveyed the students below. And then—a shift in the atmosphere. A wave of mana, crushing yet strangely calming, swept over the hall. The students stiffened instinctively, their bodies reacting before their minds could even register it. A man entered, walking with the effortless grace of one born to command. His long red hair flowed down to his back, his silver robe billowing as if caught by an unseen wind. Sharp golden eyes, cold and penetrating, swept across the gathered students. A faint, almost imperceptible smile played on his lips. He radiated power—raw, refined, and terrifying in its restraint. It didn't take a genius to recognize him. Lucian Everhart—principal of Lunaria Academy, one of the emperor's trusted subordinates, and one of the most formidable figures in the kingdom. As the high-ranking officials assembled, the entire hall fell into immediate silence. The students snapped to attention and saluted, the air thick with a mix of awe and fear. 'So that's the principal of Lunaria Academy, huh?' Grey thought, his gaze locking onto Lucian. 'One of the emperor's subordinates... His aura feels... strange. Familiar, yet shrouded in mystery.' Almost as if sensing Grey's scrutiny, Lucian's piercing golden eyes shifted—and met his. 'Shit!' Grey cursed internally, hastily dropping his gaze. 'He caught me staring!' A floating green crystal drifted to Lucian's side, amplifying his voice with magic as he spoke. "Welcome, all of you, to this award ceremony." Each word he uttered carried weight, causing the very walls to tremble lightly. Every student's heart raced, clinging desperately to each syllable as if the future itself hinged on his words. "This ceremony has been organized to recognize the brave students who recently embarked on a level-nine dungeon raid," Lucian continued, his voice steady and commanding. "Not only did they survive, they returned bearing powerful artifacts—treasures that will aid in safeguarding our kingdom." Polite applause echoed through the hall, measured and respectful. Lucian lifted a hand, and silence returned instantly. "However," he said, his tone dropping slightly, "this victory did not come without loss. One among you made the ultimate sacrifice." At those words, a heavy stillness settled over the room. Dante, standing stiffly at the back, clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white, his teeth grinding audibly. "And that student's name," Lucian said solemnly, "will be forever engraved among Lunaria's honored dead. His burial will be conducted with the dignity and glamour befitting one who gave his life in service to the academy and the realm. His name will stand proudly on the Pillar of Valor, so that future generations will remember his bravery." 'Is that all?!' Dante seethed inwardly, rage boiling beneath the surface. 'My friend gave his life—and all he gets is a name carved into a stone pillar?!' Charlotte, sensing his rising fury, leaned closer and whispered urgently, "Dante... I understand your pain. But don't do something you'll regret. Stay calm—for him." Dante took a shuddering breath, forcing himself to exhale slowly. "Tch," he scoffed, swallowing the lump in his throat. Lucian's voice rang out once more. "Furthermore, the students who participated in the raid will be rewarded with stars and merit rankings befitting their courage and achievements." A rare, approving smile touched his lips. "Now... let us begin."

Chapter 198 - 198: Award ceremony!

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