Instructor Varick:
"Class 3A… Yesterday, you proved your abilities. Today, you earn your rewards — and meet your squads."
The room buzzed with excitement.
--Gift Distribution Scene
Varick:
"Kaira Velhorn."
She stepped forward gracefully. An assistant presented a silver arm-guard with faint blue runes.
Varick:
"Mana-Reflector. Amplifies your blasts, strengthens your shield field."
Kaira smirked.
Kaira:
"Exactly what I needed."
Varick:
"Rio Kastel."
Rio received a set of reinforced rune casings.
Varick:
"Prevents rune breakage. Your illusions will hold longer."
Rio (grinning):
"Finally, no more disappearing mid-fight."
Varick:
"Aethera Luminari."
Varick handed him a black-and-silver pendant pulsing faintly.
Varick (quietly):
"It reacts to your energy… but its true potential is unknown."
Aethera narrowed his eyes, feeling an odd heartbeat from it.
Other students received gifts too — shockwave gauntlets, enchanted boots, healer's rings, precision scopes.
Squad Selection Scene
Varick:
"Now… squads of five. These will be your team in missions, training, and survival."
He tapped a crystal slate; glowing names formed in the air.
Varick:
"Squad 1 – Vin Holt, Jaren Sticks, Sia Morn, Lysa Ven, Trix Kire."
Varick:
"Squad 2 – Nyra Solen, Kim Ray, Ely Forst, Phenix Lyn, Tyric Roan."
Varick:
"Squad 3 – Zane Crest, Alira Neo, Caven Del, Syla Vorn, Tyren Vale."
Varick
"Squad 4 – Aethera Luminari, Rio Kastel, Kaira Velhorn, Mira Valen, Drexil Vorn."
Rio (whispering):
"This… this is actually a pretty stacked team."
Kaira (smirking):
"Let's just see if you can keep up."
Aethera (calmly):
"Then it's settled. We make sure everyone remembers Squad 4."
Far in the back, Vin Holt from Squad 1 narrowed his eyes at Aethera.
"I'll make sure you don't last long, Luminari."
---