Cosmic Ruler - Chapter 181

Chapter 181: F. K.A. II

Sighing in defeat, Aiden closed the scroll and pondered the limited information he had received.

“It seems Ivan will get his first opportunity in the library,” he mused. “Hmm, fortunately, I’m rank 1 now. I can use this chance to snatch it first.”

Determined, Aiden settled down to meditate, focusing on recovering his spirit energy as he awaited his arrival at the Academy.

****

Hours later, a palpable change in the atmosphere roused everyone from their meditation. They opened their eyes, mouths agape, as they took in the astonishing sight before them.

“A floating island?” one student gasped.

“Wow, so our academy floats in the sky!” another exclaimed.

“So cool,” a third murmured in awe.

Before them stood an awe-inspiring academy, perched atop a massive, floating island suspended high in the clouds. The academy’s architecture was a magnificent blend of ancient grandeur and magical might. Tall, spired towers reached toward the heavens, their tops lost in the mist. The walls, made of weathered stone and adorned with intricate carvings, seemed to hum with an ancient power.

Gargantuan archways and sweeping staircases connected various sections of the academy, giving it a labyrinthine feel. Lush, enchanted gardens filled with exotic plants and magical creatures dotted the landscape, creating a vibrant tapestry of color and life.

Floating lanterns lit the pathways, casting a warm, ethereal glow that complemented the academy’s mystical ambiance. Spirit creatures, from terrifying Steel Wings to majestic Luons, roamed freely, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. The Steel Wings, with their glinting metallic feathers and fierce eyes, soared overhead, while the Luons, noble lion-like beings with manes that shimmered like liquid gold, wandered gracefully through the gardens.

From above, the students saw many astonishing sights. The academy’s grounds were vast, with crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and towering spires that seemed to touch the heavens. Magical flora and fauna thrived everywhere, creating an otherworldly landscape. However, as they landed on the island, they once again felt like country bumpkins, overwhelmed by the sheer magnificence of their new surroundings.

“The concentration of spirit energy is so high here that everyone can almost taste it,” a student said in astonishment, his eyes wide as he took in the vibrant, palpable energy in the air.

Hearing him, everyone nodded in agreement. They could actually taste the enormous amount of spirit energy, a sweet, invigorating sensation that filled their senses and made their skin tingle.

“At first, it will feel like this, but after some time, you will get adjusted to this amount,” Marcus said, stepping forward with an smile on his face.

Seeing them like this he remembered how he first reacted, and then said the same thing the senior who was leasing them said.

“The reason the spirit energy is so high here is because of the location. We are directly above the sea, and within thousands of kilometers of us, there are no other inhabitants. All this spirit energy is gathered by our arrays to this island, increasing the ambient concentration to another level,” Marcus explained proudly, a note of pride in his voice as he bragged about their cultivation conditions.

“Follow me,” Marcus then said, and everyone, nodding, followed after him, their footsteps echoing softly against the stone pathways.

” Also, from now on call me Senior, okay?” Marcus while walking forward turned his head and said.

Everyone nodded and then Marcus lead them to location only known to him.

“Hey, Aiden, if we can cultivate here, our cultivation speed will increase manyfold,” Chloe said excitedly, holding Aiden’s hand tightly as they walked.

Aiden nodded, a determined look in his eyes. “Yes, it’s as the same the amount of spirit energy compared to our cultivation chambers at the palace.”

” I wonder how high the chambers spirit energy is going to be” Aiden said.

” Hmm, yes, it definitely going to be above the amount we used ro in our chambers” Chloe nodded and replied with an expectant look on her face.

“How pitiful. I always used to cultivate in such amounts,” Silvia smugly interjected, overhearing them. She tossed her hair back, a superior smile on her face, clearly enjoying the reaction from Chloe and Aiden.

Aiden: “…”

Chloe: “….”

“I can’t wait to cultivate here,” Chloe said, ignoring Silvia.

“But I want to check out the library first,” Aiden replied, also ignoring Silvia.

Seeing them brush her off, Silvia yelled, “Don’t ignore me!”

Her outburst drew everyone’s attention. They stopped and turned to look at her, surprised by the sudden commotion.

Silvia’s face turned red with shame under their gazes, and she bowed her head.

“Do you feel uncomfortable, Junior Silvia?” Marcus asked, noting her flushed face.

Silvia, mortified by Marcus’s remark, wished she could dig a hole and jump inside. She shook her head frantically.

Marcus nodded and resumed leading the group through the academy. The students followed, whispering amongst themselves, casting occasional glances at Silvia, who remained silent and embarrassed.

Aiden, seeing her flushed face, let out a chuckle, earning a deathly glare from her.

Chloe, unable to contain her amusement, laughed openly at Silvia’s misery, making playful jabs at her.

Eventually, they arrived at a building that resembled a grand mansion from the outside.

“This is the dormitory for you all,” Marcus said, showcasing the beautiful mansion, which was large enough to be called a castle.

The mansion’s façade was adorned with intricate carvings and sprawling ivy, giving it a timeless, elegant look. Tall windows lined the walls, promising plenty of natural light and breathtaking views of the academy grounds. A pair of grand double doors stood at the entrance, flanked by statues of guardian spirits.

Inside, the mansion was even more impressive. The foyer was vast, with a sweeping staircase leading to the upper floors. The walls were decorated with tapestries depicting historical events and legendary figures. Comfortable seating areas and cozy nooks were scattered throughout, offering places for students to relax and socialize.

Everyone curiously watched their new home, taking in every detail of the massive structure.

“This will be your home during your time at the academy,” Marcus continued. “Each of you will have your own room, furnished with everything you need for your studies and comfort.”

“Follow me, and I’ll show you to your rooms,” Marcus said, leading the way up the grand staircase. The students followed, their anticipation growing with each step.

As they walked, Marcus pointed out various features of the mansion, including a communal dining hall, several study rooms, and a spacious common area where students could gather.

Reaching the top of the stairs, Marcus stopped in front of a hallway lined with doors. “These are your rooms,” he said. “Feel free to settle in and make yourselves at home. Classes will begin next week, so take this time to rest and get acquainted with your new surroundings.”

“The rooms are assigned according to ranks, with Rank 1 being the middle room, while others are on its left and right side,” Marcus explained, pointing to the door with the number 1.

Then he gestured to its left and right, where numbers 2 and 51 were clearly visible, indicating that rooms 2 to 50 were on the right side and rooms 51 to 100 were on the left side.

“And of course, as Rank 1 should have special privileges, the Rank 1 room is three times as big as the others and has many features that other ranks don’t,” Marcus said. “Well, I won’t go into much detail. If you want to know more, either ask Rank 1 or become Rank 1 yourself.”

Hearing this, everyone initially looked at Aiden with envy. However, Marcus’s next lines sparked a competitive spirit within them. They turned predatory eyes toward Aiden, as if ready to challenge him on the spot.

Fortunately for Aiden, Marcus had no such plans. After explaining the dormitory arrangements, he looked at Aiden and said, “Tomorrow is the freshman party, and as this year’s Rank 1, you have to prepare a speech for the day.”

Hearing this, Aiden sighed and then nodded. “I will prepare one.”

Marcus nodded in acknowledgment and then left.

As Aiden began to settle into his room, several students approached him with varying degrees of hostility and curiosity.

A tall boy with dark hair, named Lucas, smirked. “Enjoy your big room while you can, Aiden. It won’t be long before someone takes that spot from you.”

A girl with fiery red hair, Elara, crossed her arms and added, “Don’t get too comfortable. I plan to be Rank 1 by the end of the month.”

Another student, a serious-looking boy named Kai, simply stared at Aiden with intense focus. “I’ll be challenging you soon,” he said flatly.

Even a seemingly shy girl, Mia, spoke up. “I may be Rank 48 now, but don’t underestimate me. I’ll catch up,” she said with determination.

Aiden responded calmly to each provocation, his eyes looked at each of them. “You’re welcome to try,” he said. “But remember, I didn’t become Rank 1 by chance.”

Chloe stood by his side, giving him a supportive smile. “Let them talk, Aiden. We’ll show them what we’re made of.” Saying so she drags Aiden into his room, robbing others of their chance of provoking him.