An electric buzz ran through the colossal auditorium as the voice overhead echoed once more:
"All candidates, proceed to the Alpha Gate."
Like a rising tide, thousands of hopefuls moved in unison, converging toward the massive silver archway at the northern end of the hall.
The Alpha Gate pulsed with a steady blue glow, humming softly as it reacted to the approaching surge of bodies.
Staff members in sleek white uniforms, each with glowing gold accents denoting their authority, began organizing the crowd into groups.
Their movements were brisk but efficient. One such figure—a stern-looking man with a trimmed beard and visor-like glasses—lifted his hand.
"Cadets, follow your assigned path. You are now entering the Zenith Virtual Combat Testing Zone."
The air grew dense with curiosity and anticipation.
And then they saw it.
An enormous chamber, bathed in vibrant, shifting hues of neon blue and violet, emerged through a layered gate.
