They have witnessed empires rise like the morning sun and vanish like dust before the evening wind.
They have heard the laughter of children, the clash of countless battles, and the final breaths of heroes whose names were swallowed by time.
Yet on this day, even the ancient mountains fell silent.
For destiny had arrived…
wearing two faces.
Cold mountain winds swept across the endless peaks as clouds drifted beneath towering cliffs like an ocean of white.
The world was peaceful.
Forests stretched endlessly across the land, rivers shimmered beneath the sunlight, and countless birds soared freely through the sky.
At the edge of the highest cliff stood two silent figures.
Long black cloaks fluttered gently behind them, while identical obsidian masks concealed their faces.
Neither spoke.
Neither moved.
They simply gazed upon the unfamiliar world lying before them.
Then…
The silence broke.
A distant roar echoed through the forest.
Moments later, countless beasts burst from the woods.
Massive horned deer…
Iron-fanged wolves…
Winged serpents…
Creatures of every kind fled desperately in every direction as though death itself had descended upon the mountains.
Even the predators abandoned their prey.
Instinct alone commanded them.
Run.
The brothers quietly watched the fleeing creatures.
Shadow slowly raised his hand.
With a soft click, the black mask covering his face came off.
Fresh mountain air brushed against his skin.
He closed his eyes and took a slow breath.
“It has been a long time…” His calm voice was almost carried away by the wind.
Beside him, KING removed his own mask.
Cool air flowed through his dark hair as he inhaled deeply.
“The air feels different.” “It doesn’t carry the smell of blood.” Shadow opened his eyes once more.
His expression remained as calm as ever.
“Nor the scent of burning cities.” For several moments…
Neither brother spoke again.
The wind whispered between the cliffs.
The silence felt strangely comforting.
After what seemed like forever, Shadow looked toward the enormous city resting beyond the mountains.
“So…” “What should we do now?” A gentle feminine voice echoed directly inside his mind.
“Receiving command…” A heartbeat later, another calm voice followed.
“Planetary information has been compiled.” Rin began her explanation.
“Master…
this planet is known as Lunar.” “It differs greatly from the worlds you have previously visited.” “There is no emperor.” “No kingdom.” “No supreme ruler.” “The entire planet is governed by the Five Great Academies.” As Rin spoke, five glowing projections appeared before the twins.
Each displayed a magnificent academy.
“The first is Vanguard Academy.” “The strongest among the five.” “It is devoted entirely to producing powerful warriors.” The first projection disappeared.
A second academy emerged, surrounded by endless blooming plum blossoms.
“Blossom Veil Academy.” “It accepts only female disciples.” “Its Plum Blossom Sword Technique is renowned throughout the surrounding star systems.” The image changed once more.
An enormous academy appeared, containing sword training grounds, magical towers, libraries, and martial arenas.
“Sovereign Academy.” “The only academy that teaches multiple disciplines.” “Swordsmanship.” “Magic.” “Martial Arts.” “Military Strategy.” “And many others.” “It ranks third among the Five Great Academies.” Another projection floated into existence.
Crystal towers rose above lakes glowing with magical energy.
“Aether Academy.” “It specializes exclusively in magic.” “And finally…” The last projection appeared.
An academy built upon towering cliffs beneath an endless sky.
“Zenith Academy.” “It accepts only exceptionally talented disciples.” “It teaches only swordsmanship.” “Although ranked last, every disciple possesses extraordinary talent.” KING silently observed each projection before speaking.
“A world ruled by academies…” “Interesting.” Rin continued.
“The city before you belongs to a branch family under Sovereign Academy.” “The annual disciple selection begins in two days.” “During that time, an elder from the main academy will arrive personally to select outstanding students.” Shadow folded his arms.
“Can anyone participate?” “No, Master.” “Residents of Lunar may participate directly.” “However…” “Visitors from other planets must first pass a preliminary competition.” “Only ten people will qualify.” “Those ten will earn the right to participate in Sovereign Academy’s official selection.” Shadow nodded once.
“I understand.” KING looked toward the distant city walls.
“That solves one problem.” “But another remains.” “If we enter using forged permits again, it may attract unnecessary attention.” Ray’s cheerful voice suddenly echoed inside their minds.
“Masters, there is no need for forged permits this time.” KING raised an eyebrow.
“Explain.” “Lunar is famous throughout this region of the galaxy.” “Every year, countless visitors arrive hoping to join one of the Five Great Academies.” “If you simply state that you are travelers seeking admission into Sovereign Academy…” “The guards will allow you to enter.” KING looked toward Shadow.
“Convenient.” Shadow remained thoughtful.
“Rin.” “How strong are we compared to this world’s standards?” For the first time…
Rin hesitated.
Several seconds passed before she answered.
“With your ordinary physical abilities…” “You are roughly equal to elite academy disciples.” “If you fight seriously…” “You may reach the level of academy elders.” “But I cannot guarantee victory.” “Every elder possesses different techniques, experience, and abilities.” The mountain breeze continued flowing quietly between the brothers.
Neither showed disappointment.
Neither celebrated.
Shadow simply nodded.
“I see.” He turned toward the winding mountain path leading to the city below.
“Let’s go.” Without another word…
The two brothers began descending the ancient mountain.
Behind them…
The wind whispered softly through the towering pines.
As though the mountain itself understood something the people below did not.
Peace is often quietest…
moments before calamity arrives.