NOVEL ONLINE FREE Chapter 42: Chapter 42– The Academy’s Foundations
The Academy sprawled before them like a world of its own—a city of power, knowledge, and ambition.
Ethan and Ronan had passed the entrance test, but stepping beyond those gates was only the beginning.
This place had raised generations of warriors, tacticians, sorcerers, and legends. And now, it would shape them too.
The stone pathways stretched in intricate patterns, forming roads that wound through vast training grounds, towering libraries, and halls brimming with energy. The very air hummed with potential, as if the land itself carried the echoes of battles fought and knowledge gained.
Ethan's grip tightened on the strap of his bag as he took it all in.
This was Celestial Apex Academy.
And for the first time since they had arrived, it truly felt real.
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A Structure Built for Power
Before they could even decide where to go next, a sharp voice called out.
"All new students, gather at the Grand Pavilion!"
The command came from a figure standing on a raised platform at the center of the main courtyard. Clad in dark robes embroidered with silver sigils, the man's aura was controlled yet oppressive.
No one dared disobey.
As Ethan and Ronan followed the wave of students heading in that direction, the academy's structure became clearer.
The academy was divided into six grand divisions, each dedicated to a different path of strength.
1. The Martial Division – For warriors, swordsmen, and close-combat specialists. These students honed their bodies and weapons to become living weapons.
2. The Arcane Division – Dedicated to mages, sorcerers, and spellcasters. It was a place where magic was refined, reshaped, and evolved.
3. The Mystic Division – A mysterious branch that focused on spiritual energy, soul arts, and unique bloodline abilities.
4. The Shadow Division – Where assassins, scouts, and information gatherers were trained. This division thrived on speed, deception, and the art of the unseen.
5. The Alchemy and Forging Division – A haven for craftsmen, alchemists, and those who sought to enhance warriors through creations rather than direct combat.
6. The Tactical Division – Reserved for strategists, commanders, and those who led armies rather than fighting alone.
The academy wasn't just about brute strength. It was a world where multiple disciplines clashed, cooperated, and evolved together.
Ethan's path was already set.
He would be in the Martial Division.
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The Grand Pavilion – A Gathering of Futures
The Grand Pavilion was a vast, open hall, its high ceiling supported by towering pillars carved with ancient battle records.
Hundreds of students stood together, each one marked by their own ambitions and hunger for greatness.
At the center stood an instructor.
He was not an old man with wisdom-lined features.
He was young. Too young.
His figure was lean yet powerful, dressed in simple black robes. There was no excess to him—only purpose.
When he spoke, his voice carried without effort, yet it struck deeper than any shout.
"You have passed the test." His gaze swept over them, cold and calculating. "That only means you are qualified to be here."
The air grew heavier.
The instructor continued. "But being here means nothing. Surviving here is what matters."
There was no emotion in his words. Only truth.
He raised a single finger. "Out of all of you, only a fraction will leave this place stronger than when they arrived. The rest will be crushed under the weight of those stronger, smarter, and more ruthless than them."
Silence fell.
No one dared to breathe too loudly.
The instructor let that silence stretch before he finally continued.
"Now… we begin."
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The Dormitories – Choosing a Path
After the gathering, the students were given their dormitory assignments.
The academy did not separate students based on rank or background.
Instead, they were paired with those of similar potential.
That meant—the people they lived with were their closest allies… or their greatest rivals.
Ethan and Ronan received their assignments.
They would be in Dormitory 7 – Martial Division.
The dormitory was a large structure, each room designed for two students. The academy did not believe in luxury—only efficiency.
Simple wooden beds. A desk. A weapon rack. A meditation area.
Nothing more, nothing less.
Ethan and Ronan glanced at each other before stepping inside.
Their journey had truly begun.
But this was only the first night.
The true trials would start soon.
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Next Chapter Preview: The First Lesson
The academy wastes no time. Training begins immediately, forcing Ethan and Ronan to face the brutal reality of their new lives. But as they push themselves forward, an unexpected force watches from the shadows. The academy is not just a place to grow. It is also a place where the strong devour the weak. And soon… the first true challenge will arrive.