The academy hall buzzed with excitement.
Hundreds of students gathered around the glowing crystal placed at the center of the room.
The Sovereign Stone.
Its surface shimmered with ancient energy.
One by one students stepped forward.
"Lucas Arden!"
A tall boy approached confidently. When he touched the crystal, bright silver light burst from it.
"Silver Rank Ability!"
Cheers filled the hall.
Next came another student.
"Marina Holt!"
Golden light exploded from the crystal.
"Gold Rank Ability!"
Gasps spread everywhere.
Aren watched quietly from the back.
Then the instructor called his name.
"Aren Vale."
Whispers spread instantly.
"The slum boy."
"He's doomed."
Aren stepped forward slowly.
His heart pounded.
He placed his hand on the crystal.
The hall fell silent.
Seconds passed.
Nothing happened.
Then a weak gray flicker appeared and disappeared.
The instructor checked the results.
He sighed.
"No Rank Ability."
Laughter erupted across the room.
Aren slowly stepped away.
His dream had died.