The announcement came at early morning, broadcast across every screen in every city, every town, every remote village connected by mana or wire or word of mouth.
The Council had finally lifted the silence.
"The World's First Junior Talent Competition," the announcer's voice rang out, steady and formal, officially named as "The Grand Summit Trials", will commence in one month."
"The Participants must be under twenty years of age. There are no rank restrictions. No regional quotas. No nomination requirements."
"Any individual who meets the age requirement is eligible to register."
The crowd erupted in cheers.
...
Afternoon.
Inside a temporary broadcast studio in Karyal City, a young woman with dark red hair and sharp yellow eyes sat across from an interviewer.
Her name was Vara Sloan, an SSS-Class holder, the youngest [Platinum] ranker in history, and also an agent of the council.
