Alaric continued."The academy uses the term planetary mission because these settlements are isolated from ordinary civilisation and operate under conditions that resemble independent worlds. However, the places you visited were not necessarily entire planets in the astronomical sense."He pointed to one of the marked regions."Many are secluded settlements, enclosed territories, artificial habitats, or isolated regions with their own defence systems and populations. Some possess extensive terrain and infrastructure, but their boundaries are limited. We call them planets in the context of these missions because they function as separate operational environments."Liam's brows rose slightly.So Veyra and Havenridge weren't necessarily planets in the literal sense.That explained why the missions focused on a particular settlement, its defence systems, and the surrounding territory rather than an entire planetary civilisation.Alaric continued."These locations are often selected becaus

Meridian Hall was difficult to miss.The enormous structure stood near the centre of the district, surrounded by several elevated walkways and open courtyards. Its entrance was wide enough to accommodate dozens of students at once, and the academy's emblem was engraved above the doors.Liam and the others joined the stream of students entering the building.Inside, the hall was even more impressive.Rows of elevated seating surrounded a central platform. The ceiling was so high that it was difficult to determine where it ended, and several glowing formations provided illumination without the need for ordinary lights.Students were already gathering in groups.Liam noticed that the students here seemed more confident than the first-years he was accustomed to seeing.There was also a noticeable difference in their cultivation levels.A considerable number of them had reached Silver, while others had already stepped into Gold.It made sense.These were students who had survived their fir

Ronan looked towards him and then his expression showed a trace of amusement."You're Liam Carter, aren't you?"Liam didn't answer."I've heard about you too. The human who went from Silver to Gold during an execution mission."His eyes moved briefly over Liam."Quite a remarkable story."There was something unpleasant in the way he said it."Though I suppose people are easily impressed when they don't know what they're looking at."Liam remained still. "The match was between you and Karl.""Of course." Ronan turned away. "I was simply making an observation."He stopped beside his younger brother."Listen carefully, Karl. Our family name carries expectations. If you cannot meet them, at least stop giving people reasons to laugh at it."Karl's fingers curled against the platform.Ronan walked away without waiting for a response.The students gradually returned to their own conversations, but not before a few exchanged glances. Karl remained on the platform.His wolf spirits had disapp

"This year is so different, right?"Elena's voice came from beside Liam.He turned towards her, still a little surprised to see her."Elena. You're looking well."She smiled. "That's all? I haven't seen you since Havenridge, and that's what you have to say?""What do you want me to say?""Maybe ask how I'm doing?"Liam laughed. "Alright. How are you doing?""Much better. My injuries have healed, and I'm back to normal." She looked him over. "You don't look too bad yourself. I heard you caused quite a stir after coming back.""People exaggerate.""Of course. You only went from Silver to Gold during an execution mission. Nothing special.""You're making fun of me." Liam smiled wryly."A little." Elena said with a chuckle. Before Liam could respond, a raised voice caught their attention.The vampire standing in front of Lily hadn't moved an inch. He was tall, with neatly styled dark hair and a handsome face. His academy uniform was slightly different from the usual one, bearing a small