Everything appears dark and hollow when a person is never loved. Life plays tricks on them. Playing with their feelings and turn every of event against them. The person always tries to search for life itself. As if, life is something to ask for, something to search for. They never get it that it is them who have no life in them, instead of searching for it. Such person is always overlooked. Sometimes it drowns people into extreme dark abyss. Sometimes it is the family, and friends circle.  Everywhere such person exists. Unable to name the problem they have.

However, a place, if it ever exists, it should be the City O. There are lives in O where no one wants to stay. A place filled with suspicious and questionable people. The city is not governed with law. It is lawless and a place where children with no future are dumped. Life here is solely based on survival of the fittest. Additionally, also of luck. Still what luck will a person with broken heart even have?

At the deepest part of the city O. A group of new children were transported at night more frequently than ever. The city at night appears pitch black. Like no one stays here apart from the truck that arrived here just now. Some small cries could be heard from the truck. The driver came out with others and smoothly transferred the children one by one inside the cage. No one dared to rebel or shout. It was only when the truck vanished from their sight that the children found themselves staring at pitch black area only. 

The surrounding was chaotic. None of the people inside knew what is happening with them. They didn't wait for long though and soon a group of people came. They stopped their old beat-up cars and steps down. They appeared very solemn and crazy. Their face has terrible scars which added into more threatening vibe. The flash of the beat-up light up the section where the children are dropped. 

The leader with dark long hair pointer his gun and spat out disdainfully, "Go, take care of them." Then he shot once.

The children in the cage trembled and howled loudly. The group didn't care and walked towards the cage. Few men and women opened the cage and sort the group of children accordingly to their gender. They were so afraid that none of them could stand still. After all they are still children.

The leader coldly looked through the group and said darkly, "These are some useless goods."

The person beside him nodded, "They are. I shouldn't have expected anything from them."

It wasn't unexpected that they are delicate. Most are from upper class. They are no doubt beautiful but it's evident that they won't survive. Here in city O everything depends on survival of the fittest. Beauty has little of use here.

The lady beside them said, "Should we just send them to prostitute hall?"

The leader nodded and asked, "How many are here?"

The lady replied, "47 in total."

She smiled flirtiously and said, "Seems like the production is faster now." Everyone laughed aloud. 

It is no doubt the case since in City O the number of times the children being transported are growing. At first it used to be once a year but now it has turned into once a month. Surely, there are so many children to take care of for those rich and comfortably staying people. They just go around spreading seeds without any care. Life for them goes on but so in slums.

The leader turned around and waved, "Take care of it. I'm going back."

The others nodded and took the group of children into the tattered van just behind them. In short span of few minutes everyone departed from the area. The atmosphere around became quiet eerily like those in the graveyard. It could make one's hair stand due to vigilance. Soon there sounded a rustling sound. 

Under the moonlight a snow-white little hand clutched the handle of the cage. The knuckles were pale and seemed to exert quite energy. The group of people were long gone and so there was no one in sight. 

Nobody, from earlier had realized that someone was left into the cage. Since it was extremely dark no one noticed a deathly silent girl inside the cage with no emotions. The girl who is looking at the surrounding calmly. Her face is oval shape and those pairs of eyes where truly mesmerizing. It is no doubt that she will be a beauty. But there is no light in the girl's eyes. She is dull and gives off a depressing vibe. Her cherry-like lips dried and pursed tightly. 

With her movement stopped, soon the surrounding entered into terrifying serene. The girl looked left and right as if gaining understanding of the area. She slowly rose on her feet and walked out in the little light. She appeared to be of 8 years, and her body is covered in black jeans and a black windbreaker at the top. Her long hair also dark like night.

The moonlight shone on the area and slightly reflected on her. Her snow-white appearance glowing. She moved from that place and left without looking back. The darkness enveloped her. As if welcoming her into O City's hellhole.

She moved around for very long and sat down at a corner for rest. Like a doll lost in memories, she also got lost in thoughts. 

Her family is the richest in the City Z. Prior to coming here, she was still attending her school. She was picked up from her class suddenly and told that her mother died due to a disease. They didn't clarify what kind of disease though. She just attended her mother's funeral and was brought straight to this place.

Her heart was empty. She knew something was not right when she heard her mother's death. She inherited her mother's calm disposition. Although her life before was never harsh it wasn't good either. She was taught from the small that nothing in life is guaranteed. Like her life as a rich daughter. It was never a promise that she would stay like that. Her mother always exerted effort to make her heart cold so to never get hurt. 

She always used to tell her that nothing in life is yours, so never attach yourself with anyone. Not even to her. You will get hurt and life will teach you this lesson until it is carved into your bones.

She understood why her mother did so. Her mother was in poor health from the moment she gave birth to her. She was always on the edge knowing that her life may come to an abrupt end. Those cold words where the form of protection to her as her mother wanted her to know things beforehand and not feel despair when reality splash before her. She should not feel suicidal.

She looked around and saw a small house and walked towards it but stopped soon. The inside sounded with loud noises. Many guys and women moaning could be heard. With no second thought she turned to other side and left. It was not like she never heard it before. Her father had multiple affairs, and he never tried to cover it before her let alone to her mother. How did he wanted them to react? She does not know. It might be because it was destined to be like that. 

She gritted her teeth as her heart felt clenched as if trying to do something. But she does not know. Soon she walked to a broken hut at the corner. No one was around and she just stayed there. The feeling from before disappeared in the mist of confusion. 

She unknowingly fell asleep.  It is good that it is summer, otherwise she would have caught a cold.

By the time she woke up, there were countless noises. Once she opened her eyes, the bright light from outside penetrated straight into her eyes. It took some time to open her eyes and afterwards it widened in shock. Not far from her, a group of people surrounding a lady. She has her stomach bulge, apparently pregnant.

"It is too late! How can you even make mistakes like this?"

"I think the grace of this lord has left you feel like the master of your life."

One man smiled coldly and said, "You dared to get pregnant! Did you not take any contraceptive?"

The lady shivered. Tears fell down; it made her look more beautiful. But it was not the point. She begged, "I did take them. I don't know why it didn't effect on me."

The man however didn't believed her. He said, "Damn it! There is already a problem of food and shelter here in O. And now you are giving birth!?"

The other man also frowned, "There is no other way. We shall just abort it."

The lady trembled, she asked pursing her lips, "Can that be even done. The baby is already a few months now."

The man rolled his eyes, "So you know it's been a few months and yet you never noticed? Or you did noticed but still kept it?" The end of the sentence was very cold.

The lady shook her head in despair. She cried and said, "I didn't knew. If I knew why would I keep it. My own life is unknown here."

The men surrounding her nodded. That's true. In O no one needs more burdens since their own lives are unknown of its next second.

The man said, "Lets go. We will take you to the hospital."

Afterwards they dragged the woman from there.

They never found out someone hiding and looking at everything. After they left a girl slowly came out from the broken hut. She walked behind them. Since there is a hospital, she should as well try to go there. However not long after she lost them. The surrounding is very confusing. It has small turnings at every possible corners. 

She felt extremely unwilling but there is no lead anymore. She also forgot the way back and thus continued to walk. Every few corners are surrounded by groups of people. Like those are their territory.

And although she can hide from them, she also has problems. She has been without food and water for two days already. Her eyes are turning blurry. She walked for God knows how long and soon saw a tap to drink water.

She dragged her body and just as she opened the tap, it gushed out with dirty water. However, it's not the time to consider if it's dirty of not. She has to drink to survive. 

It was same the next day and day after that too. There was no one to help her out. Like she was alone in tis hell hole. If possible, she wished someone kind will find her here, but judging from people she encountered in these past days it was just a wishful dream. She might die faster than anyone if got in hands of those people. 

Days passed slowly. Extremely slow.

She lived for almost ten days drinking from the tap water. However, without food her body is nothing more than a pile of semi-movable skeleton.

On the eleventh day, she drank the same water but heard people coming. She left hurriedly.

The person said, "You sure?"

She froze at the same place before running to hide somewhere.

The other seemingly nodding, "Of course! I saw her thrice already. That girl must be around here. Her body was small and appeared to have not eaten for a long time."

The tap water was not closed properly. 

The person looked around and saw no one. But just as he moved to look in other side, he stopped as he interestingly looked at the small shoe at the corner. Although her body was not in sight, but the shoe was extremely eye-catching. It was o Nyke's latest design. Here in O, it is difficult to find even a piece of rag clothes, how can something so expensive be lost here. The man smirked and thought, 'Hiding herself.'

He waved at others, "Alright off you all go. I will search here myself."

The people around him didn't question and left one after another. It appeared that he is the group leader or at least have control over these people. After a long time when no one was around, he walked towards the place where she was hiding.

Just as he removed the broken door a shocking thing happened. The girl held a rusty and breakable knife and rushed forward with all her strength. The man was a bit stunned but soon laughed and dodged her attack with a simple tilt of his body. He was too amused and the glint in his eyes glowing in interest. 

The girl was super weak. It can be due to no food supplements. In no time she fell on the ground. The man smiled wickedly and just as he looked at her face he was delighted beyond words. Beauty although has no use here, it can't be said to be completely useless either. The men are vain. He is no different.

"The catch this time is super fruitful!" He laughed out aloud. 

The little girl is of many uses to him. It's good that she fainted. Her beautiful face is too eye-catching. He cannot help but take few more glances at her before happily picking her up and turned around. To his surprise, his eyes met with someone else's.

His body stiffened. The man opposite to him was coldly looking at him and the girl in his arms.

The man spat out coldly, "Leave her here."

Although extremely unwilling he did put the girl down. He said afterwards, seemingly trying his luck, "Senior can't I just take her. She has nowhere to go anyways. She hasn't eaten and drank tap water for a long time. I'm afraid she will get sick and die here."

"Heh" the other man chuckled coldly. He glanced at the girl and said, "No use of saying something that isn't true. She will die faster in your hands then here alone."

He added, "If you are so worried about her. I will take her with me."

He was left speechless and left with regret.

The other person smirked behind him, and he lowered his body as he coldly said, "Don't pretend. He is gone."

The girl very naturally opened her eyes slowly. She weakly stood up and studied the other man. He appears to be at his fifties and there are countless scars on his face and hands. It's unknown how many are in his body.

He asked with an indifferent attitude, "What's your name?"

The girl didn't answer for a long time. She pursed her lips. Just as he thought she won't say it, her reply came, "I don't have any."

The elderly man smiled a bit. His indifference is still there but his coldness depleted a lot. The girl is very clever. She knew her slim chance of survival if the earlier man knew she was awake. So she pretended to faint. Her acting also was extremely well done. Even he was almost fooled. She is sharp and has strong will to live. Such person will never be at disadvantage.

He carefully seized her up and said, "How many days you have been in here?"

The girl blinked without any emotions, "Today is eleventh."

The man was surprised internally. If it was others in general not to mention girls even boys won't survived this long without getting caught. Moreover, she hasn't eaten anything in these eleven days.

He nodded as deep in thought. The girl was still vigilant, and she looked around the surrounding. The other side of the road is completely blocked. And the two other side was blocked with houses. There is only one way to escape. It has nearly ninety percent chance to get caught in few steps.

She pursed her lips tightly and was extremely unwilling to die here. The man opposite to her noticed her movements and easily understood her thoughts. He was very satisfied how she could act calmly and think strategically.

He walked towards her, and she stepped back. Just as there was no way to step back, she glared at the elderly man.

The man amused asked, "Want to eat anything?"

The girl was stunned but she didn't dare to let her guards down. She shook her head slowly.

The man smiled kindly, "Don't worry, I won't do anything." As his words didn't make the girl less relax, he added, "Let's make a deal."

The girl blinked her eyes as if not understanding what he is saying. The man however said without waiting for her to ask questions, "I will provide you with food, water, and shelter for ten years. In return you will be trained here for five years and afterwards you will spend five years at University of O. It is a battlefield. A ground where strongest lives."

He continued, "It is a place where people kill. You will live there for five years and after you turn 18, you will enter the army." He thoughtfully added, " You don't have to worry about the admission and other things. This old man will retire and leave this area with you in five years."

The girl listened intently and asked, "Afterwards?"

She didn't fell into his trap. She is a smart girl. The man laughed a bit, "Afterwards you will look after me."

The girl was baffled. Her beautiful but cute eyes widened as if unable to believe. The man said, "In short and straightforward terms, I want to adopt you."

The girl didn't react for half a day. She understood that these could be lies to bring her willingly with him. But the glimmer of hope surged in her heart.

As she was thinking the man said very coldly, "Before you agree, you must be ready to be trained like a machine, you must be disciplined, you must be ready kill others and get killed, and at last you must be ready to look after me when I retire. Treat me as your grandfather."

She thought for a long time. It was a death end. Even if she was able to fool him and leave from his clutched, she won't live for long running here and there with no way to survive. She has no choice. It is a choice of life and death. This man is giving her a choice to live or die here. It was ultimate that she would choose to live. Even though it has a slim chance to be true, she nodded in agreement.

The man smiled gently and said, "Let's go. I will show you around and get you something to eat and drink."

The girl looked at his back. Maybe she won't regret this decision. Her life is already unknown. She might as well try her luck this time. It would be pretty good if what he said is true. There is no need to ask him anything though. Even if it's a lie or truth none of the answer is guaranteed.

The man looked back as he smiled. The girl followed him afterwards.

The future would entail-whatever is destined to. Nothing is certain. She is putting a huge gamble on this man.

Soon they left. The surrounding was silent.

The man took her through different route but as soon as he turned to take one more turning behind him the girl fainted. He immediately picked her up. His eyes flashed.

It's not doubt with such harsh conditions she has to go to the hospital. He sighed. 'I should have found her earlier.'

With no choice he hurriedly took her to the only hospital in O city.

The most elderly doctor said, "The girl is tough, but her immune system has weakened considerably." He added after a while, "You have to take great care of her to help her regain her prior healthy body. If not, she might face extreme diseases in the future."

The man shook his head sighing. He calmly said, "I got it. Life here is difficult. If not for an accidental encounter, she..." He didn't continue. It followed with a long silence.

The doctor sighed too, "I will retire next year."

But his face was gloomy. He uttered, "Merrick, I don't think the situation here will change at all."

Marrick also had a solemn expression. He knew nothing can change the lawlessness here. He took a deep breath and changed the depressed topic "I decided to adopt her."

The doctor smiled and said, "Is that so? Is she that good?" 

Otherwise, how can someone like Merrick who is as astute as hawk pick someone useless.

Merrick nodded and firmness flashed through his eyes, "Someone who is at the verge of collapsing, her visions were blurry, and her thinking muddled. To think that a small girl like her can actually... Can actually act with such calmness at the mouth of danger. I'm truly impressed."

The doctor stunned, seeing him actually praise someone after their first meeting. As he listened to the entire story. He smiled and said, "You truly lucked out this time."

Merrick is known for his cold and indifferent approach towards those people of upper-class. It is unknown as for why such astonishing person stayed here in slums. He appeared one day out of nowhere and settled here. 

Many people came here in those shiny cars and clothes in search of him. They even stayed here for a week and when Merrick, furious decided to beat them up, only then did those people left. Why is he here? One can think of him as someone kind and compassionate person, but it did also not seem to be the case. He never does something good for anyone. It was only if someone or something is bothering him, he decides to take action. He won't help even a dying person let alone a little girl. 

He disciplined the people he could and lived a languid life. But he always appears to be lost. It is unknown what he is thinking and in these past years, he never let any child near him. No matter how strong they are but now he suddenly decided to adopt someone. It is somewhat confusing. Theo was also puzzled. But he didn't dare to ask. He can't understand someone like Merrick.

Merrick has his own life. He can do anything he wants but with his intolerable and easily irritable personality, it is surprising that he didn't leave this horrible place till now.

Anyone who lives in city O has thorough understanding of life and death. In this lawless place everyday someone dies and someone lives. The corner of every street has groups of people who will never yield to other and are in complete disharmony. No one wants to stay here willingly. It is always forced. So, Merrick is really an anomaly. 

Theo soon left and Merrick took care of the girl. She woke up after three days. 

Once she opened her eyes, she caught the sight of a man beside her. It goes without thinking he is the one, that day, who made a deal with her. She nodded politely at him. She studied him since last time she couldn't even take a look at him properly. The man has deep eyes of those who are very experienced. He has smiling face which makes him look very kind, but those eyes are extremely indifferent. Looking at him makes her feel like looking at a mirror. It felt very weird.

She decided to look around and studied the room.

Merrick said, "Good morning, you have been admitted here. I'm afraid it will be at least a month before you will be discharged."

The girl obediently nodded. She asked, "Water."

Merrick smiled, " Sure, sure. I'm sorry I forgot."

The girl drank water unhurriedly. It's as if she wasn't thirsty at all. Theo who was beside him also took note of her action.

After drinking Merrick asked, "Your name?"

The girl indifferently replied, "I don't have any."

What name will an abandoned child have? She was abandoned and in turn she also abandoned that name and title given to her by her so-called father. It was although done by her without declaring to anyone, it is in her power to change and start anew from here. She does not wish to have any more trouble in the near future because of an empty name and title. 

Merrick chuckled, "How about I, your adoptive grandfather, give you a name then?"

The girl paused a moment and slowly nodded. For her, everything prior to this has no existence. Everything before was a dream and she wants to stay in reality.

"So you shall be named Nova Winter." His aged voice sounded kindly.

She accepted her new name. Nova smiled for the first time a bit. Merrick was extremely pleased, and Theo was no different. From the girl's expression and words, it is clear how detached she is from her past life. It is shocking for an eight-year-old girl to have such calmness and indifference.

Theo gave thumps up to Merrick in secret.

Merrick happily passed her porridge, "Here eat it while it's warm. I'm sure you also want to become healthy and strong."

Nova had countless things to ask him. Why did he decided to save her? What does he actually want from her? But looking at those eyes, she knows there won't be any answers. 

Nova was content that she is alive through and accepted the porridge. She knew that from this point onwards she has really left her past behind and everything is a fresh start. Other people who left her here, for her, they are long death. That extremely wealthy family is no longer her home, and she is glad. Her mother will be happy to see her like this too.

Nova had no complaints and so does Merrick. She was discharged from hospital in a month and her health gain prior vitality. The colony where the two lived were also different from where she was. It has cleaner and livable environment. Merrick took her to their home which was no different from the rest of the place here. It was tattered but the inside was warmly decorated. 

She studied the room as Merrick told her where the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms are. After gaining understanding Merrick give her few clothes. They were clearly worn out but Nova accepted.

She helped him in the kitchen and the days passed by. It was during November, Merrick decided to start her training. She obediently followed him into the training ground changing into a full sleeves swimming suit. No one was there. So, she was going to train alone.

Merrick strictly spoke, "From now on you must wake up at 4 AM and submerge in that ice water for as long as you can. It will help reduce inflammation and sharpen your mind. Afterwards you must carry those pound of weights and run 30 minutes everyday. Start from the lightest and the difficulty shall increased by each day. Train your body to endure pain."

"This should go on for a week and I will revise the plan according to your progress."

He added, "Afterwards I will teach you everything till 12 grade. From now on, you can't be lazy and focus on gaining knowledge and strengthen yourself."

Nova nodded without any expression. After all this is what she promised to do. Not long after Merrick took her to the nearest cold-water pool. He signaled her to go in.

Since it is winter, the water is beyond cold. She took her deep breath and didn't take steps. Instead, she just jumped in. She shrieked a bit but stayed under water. Merrick gave her a thumbs up.

She stayed there completely without moving for five minutes straight. Merrick waved at her to come out. She hurriedly swims out.

Her body shivered and just after putting some clothes Merrick had her warm-up and run right away. She followed his instructions without any questions and ran around the field carrying the weight.

Since she is still 8 years old, Merrick let her carry weight depending upon her strength. She didn't disappoint him either. She carried the bag with five kg and ran the field four times without stopping. She was no doubt tired but just slowing down sometimes she never stopped.

Such willpower of a little girl astounded Merrick greatly. He really did pity her; he almost led her back home. But in this world, she has only one option and it is to be strong. So strong that she will never be suppressed and target of bully. Marrick as her grandfather never wish to see her in disadvantageous position before anyone. Not even before death. 

Afterwards, Merrick walked to her as she was gasping for air. He pushed a bottle of mineral water for her to drink.

As she was about to drink hurriedly, Merrick said, "Start with small sips."

Nova nodded and drink slowly and after a while gulp down the whole bottle. She looked at her grandfather with a smile in her eyes. Merrick patted her head gently. He said, "The feeling of accomplishment will give you confidence. Just follow every steps like instructed. You will become more disciplined and definitely stronger."

Nova nodded, "Let's go I will make some breakfast." She walked ahead.

Merrick followed behind her. She is extremely diligent and even after working so hard, she still went to make breakfast. It seems she has adapted the life of poor. That's best for her.

The days went by and soon winter passed away. The years soon followed, and it was followed by another year. Five years later at February, Nova was taken to join a school for combat. Although Merrick taught her everything he knew, it is necessary to gain practical experience.

The first day, Merrick drop her at the school where thousands of people were present. She looked around and saw everyone standing in groups. Merrick said, "Nova remember, no one is your friend here." His aged voice sounded as if a cold call from the abyss.

These girls and boys might appear normal but once get involved with them, life might become horrific and even deadly. Nova understands his words as she studied the people around her. She wore black suit of tracks. It is best for training, and her long dark hair was made into a bun. She looked extremely fair and beautiful. However, her lips have no smile at all. Even her eyes were dull. The years of training has made her strong, so strong that her aura reflects her strong disposition. Though she looked so beautiful even with her cold and poker face. It is unbelievable. She has grown taller than most of the adults present. The height alone is a characteristic enviable enough for other people. 

Merrick left her there.

Nova looked around and found nothing interesting. She is here for combat. It is an opportunity to test herself and become stronger. She leaned against the wall and remained nonchalant.

Her appearance though caught everyone's eyes. Like an ice sculpture, untouched and even preserved for so many years, she remained distant and cold.

However not everyone was afraid. Soon a group of guys and girls approached her. The leader smiled mischievously, "Hey, what's your name?"

Nova glanced at them and spat out one word, "Nova."

The girls disdainfully looked at her body. One of them asked curiously, "Why are you here though? This place is not for beauty contest. It is for combat."

The other people laughed. But Nova remained silent as if she didn't heard her at all.

The girl's face immediately darkened at being ignored. Without another word she moved her long legs and kicked at Nova's face. Just as everyone thought what a pity, a fair beautiful hand held her legs by her knee taking a step side and moving one step ahead. Extremely fast.

The girl remained still as her leg was held by Nova. She tried shake her hand off but no avail. She was wearing a skirt. Although underneath were black shorts, it was still embarrassing.

She screamed, "Leave me!"

Nova frowned and threw her legs away. Her movement appear gentle but the girl fell hard on the floor. She howled in pain.

Other people looked at her seriously by now. However the indifference on her face was enough to crumble their willpower to fight. She appear as if, she can just kill someone right away. It's just she didn't want to.

The guy from earlier still smiling moved. He threw a punch at her, but she dodged without any effort. In the next second she gave him a slap. He fell on the ground. The slap sound resonated in the hall.

"Damn bitch!" He cursed rubbing his cheek that has swollen. The smile was no longer on his lips. 

The people around her moved away.

Soon the InCharge of the examination came and brought them towards the arena. This is an examiner of today's fight competition. A test to decide who can enter the school selection.

No one stood near Nova.

The examiner above noticed everything but he started without any care, "The competition will determine the top hundred students eligible for O High School. The rule is simple, there are thousands of you here and we have divided everyone into five groups, meaning two hundred in each. You will fight with each other, and every twenty winners of each group shall be selected. Although there is additional competition afterwards. It is merely to determine strength of each individual, and we will rank them accordingly."

"I hope everyone is ready. Please enter the designated group's hall number as per your number."

Nova glanced at the patch of paper handed by her grandfather. It is twenty-five. Looking around and slowly walked towards the hall number one.

Those behind her were relieved but those in number one where already sweating. It appeared that some have lost the match even before stepping into the arena.

The match started soon afterwards.

Nova looked around inside the room. In the middle of the hall was a large stage. It is enough for three pairs to fight without disturbing one another.

She peeled one lollipop to eat. Her grandfather gave it to her as her first day at school. She squinted her eyes and studied everyone around her. The first ten people are going to fight. So there is plenty of time to devour her sweet. She sat down on a random chair far away from others. Her carefree attitude actually rose fear in others.

Soon her turn came. The InCharge called, "Nova Winter and Silvia Grey, enter the stage."

Nova calmly went. However, after sometimes no one came from the crowd. It puzzled everyone.

The InCharge frown, "Is Silvia Grey Grey not here?"

No one answered.

The InCharge was baffled. Even if they are afraid, they should at least put a fight against their opponent, right? Just how coward is that person.

The InCharge declared Nova the winner. But she didn't come down and her next opponent was called. This time it is Aila Smith.

She slowly approached the stage. Her face has some scars and hands bind into thick robe. It was tattered and old. It appeared that she has combat experience before. She isn't pretentious. Nova was very excited to actually meet someone to fight. To test herself.

The InCharge declared, "Begin!"

Just as he finished the first move came from Aila. Her technique was clearly practiced, her kick fierce enough to make the ground shudder. But Nova didn't even flinch. She stood still, calm and unreadable. And just as Aila's hand reached for her stomach, Nova shifted effortlessly, dodging with a fluid move that left only air behind.

Nova struck back instantly. The two clashed in a blur of motion, exchanging blow after blow. Nova moved like water, every dodge and counterattack seamless, while Aila struggled to land even a single touch. Nova felt grateful. It was her grandfather who made her this strong. She is very touched. 

Frustration burned in Aila's eyes. Realizing kicks weren't working, she feinted, then switched to a powerful punch aimed straight for Nova's face, hoping to end it.

The crowd below leaned forward, breath held, caught between awe and disbelief.

But Nova reacted just in time. Her hand snapped up, catching Aila's wrist mid-strike. Without hesitation, she drove her fist into Aila's abdomen, forcing a pained gasp from her opponent.

Even through the pain, Aila fought back but the final seconds ticked down, and Nova, expression still unreadable, used a flicker of power. It appeared as if her moves are so light and effortless. 

With one swift, decisive kick, she sent Aila flying backwards.

The crowd gasped as Aila landed outside the ring; the match sealed with brutal silence.

Nova took the water from the InCharge and drank sip by sip. She glanced at Aila once again. It's a pity. Nova could see how talented the other person is. But she hasn't laid a strong foundation. Her moves were not on par with her strength. She could do better. Much better though. 

Nova didn't say anything. She nodded and bowed.

Aila stood up with great difficulty and returned to her own seat. Since from each ten people two shall be selected, there are three more to go.

Her grandfather taught her everything thoroughly. Because of his strict standards Nova was able to stand still against student who are few years older than her. She is twelve years old but soon in a week she will be thirteen.

It's a perfect age to join the O High School.

O High School was no ordinary institution, it was an elite academy, backed by powerful aristocratic families. Renowned as the pinnacle of both academic excellence and combat training, it demanded not only strength but intellect from its students. Only the best were admitted.

Since living with her grandfather, Nova's knowledge had improved by leaps and bounds. Years of discipline and quiet study has sharpened her mind to match her strength. Today's trial was just one step. If she passed, the entrance exam awaited her in two days.

After that, she would finally move into the prestigious dorms of O High School.

One step ahead. She can live a happy life with her grandpa.

She cannot be defeated. This is just the start!

Nova had effortlessly defeated every opponent thrown her way. Without a hint of pride or fatigue, she returned to her seat as if nothing had happened, like it was just another routine exercise.

Dozens still remained to fight, and she had no intention of wasting energy on watching. With a quiet sigh, she leaned back and closed her eyes.

Sleep came easily to her, even in a place like this.

Those who kept stealing glances at her were stunned to see her actually sleeping, calm, composed, untouchable. Her cold, dark eyes may have been shut, but the chilling aura she carried lingered around her like a storm cloud. Icy, unapproachable.

No one dared to step nearby. She looked so detached. 

When the competition ended it was already four hours later. The InCharge declared the names of the winner one by one. He then said, "All of you shall have another fight."

Nova opened her eyes. She looked at the other ninety-nine people expressionless. Unknown to her everyone had already come to the first hall after the competition. 

The InCharge directed, "Please number Four of the first group and number twelve of third group. Step on the stage."

Nova sat up right and started watching the match. 

A blonde-haired girl and an oriental girl stood opposite each other, locked in silent tension. Their fighting styles were different. A sudden, vicious kick from the oriental girl sent the blonde stumbling back several steps, barely regaining her footing.

Nova observed quietly.

From the beginning, she had noticed a pattern, these fighters were survivors, yes, but lacked discipline of fight. They fought with instinct, not skill. Their movements were aggressive but directionless. There was no flow, no strategy. Just strength. But it is still fascinating just how strong they are. 

'Fighting isn't just about attacking though,' Nova thought, 'It's the art of mastering the body, training it to obey the will with precision.'

Her grandfather's voice echoed in her mind.

"Life here, though harsh, tests only your body. But beyond these walls, you'll face battles of the mind. You must learn to read people, watch their emotions, anticipate their actions. And most importantly..."

"Never let them know what you're thinking. Be unpredictable, but never without purpose. Let your randomness be guided by clarity. I know you won't get this now but in the near future you will."

"Number twenty-five from the first group and Number sixty seven from tenth group, your turn."

Nova stepped calmly onto the stage, her small frame casting a long shadow under the arena lights. A ripple of curiosity spread through the crowd, until her opponent joined her.

A boy, around nineteen, strode confidently forward. He was tall, broad-shouldered, and muscled from combat training. Standing across from Nova, the contrast was stark. She looked delicate by comparison, petite, poised, and silent. The height difference alone felt overwhelming.

The arena erupted in chaos.

"What kind of matchup is this?! This is ridiculous!"

"If I had to fight someone like that, I'd just surrender."

"Come on, can that ice princess even take one hit from him?"

"She's only twelve! What is this, some kind of joke?! There's no way she can win!"

"She's been acting so cold and proud, maybe it's time she gets a taste of humility."

"This isn't fair at all!"

Nova stood still, expression unreadable. She glanced at her opponent with calm eyes, silently evaluating him. His strength was uncertain, she hadn't seen any of his previous fights since they were assigned to different groups.

The boy smirked, arrogant and willful, he said, "Little beauty, I'll be generous. Step down now, and I'll let you off easy." He added scanning her properly, "If you give me a kiss, I will just surrender for you."

He laughed. 

Nova remained silent.

The crowd grew louder, feeding off the tension.

The boy laughed darkly, "Still acting proud, huh? I hope you keep that same attitude after a few minutes, if you're still conscious."

Nova nodded. She gathered all her strength on her feet. 

With a savage burst of speed, he lunged forward and seized Nova by the legs, clearly intending to hurl her off the stage like dead weight. But just as he hoisted her into the air, Nova's eyes burned with defiance. In one explosive motion, she twisted her body and drove her heel upward in a devastating kick, straight into his crotch.

"Woahhhh!!!!!" The men below instinctively clutched their lower part. They shuddered.

A guttural scream tore from the man's throat as he crumpled, his grip faltering instantly. Nova flipped midair and landed behind him in a flawless back handspring, her boots hitting the ground.

She rose slowly, her glare cold as steel. 

The crowd below stunned in disbelief. They felt as they were seeing Jurassic world species in real life.

Aila who was very discontent at first was sitting dazedly on her chair. She saw how powerful that kick was. She muttered lowly, "Thank god I didn't provoke her."

The man's face turned red. He hateful glared at the girl. His lower part must be in so much pain. He stood up with great effort, "Bitch! You are quite daring!"

He lunged at her again, fury in his eyes, but Nova was already in motion. She slipped past his grasp like smoke, fluid and untouchable. As he overcommitted, she spun low, sweeping his legs out from under him with a lightning-fast kick.

His balance shattered, he stumbled backward and with a final push from her boot, he was sent tumbling off the stage. 

"Bang!"

The hall was silence. Nova stood nonchalant. The man who fell below was out of the game. She looked at the InCharge. The InCharge received her glance and came back to earth. He declared sweating profusely, "The winner is number twenty-five!"

Nova nodded and left the stage. She glanced at the man below and reminded herself, 'When strength is not enough, strategy is the first step to make. Most of the time, problems eliminated by just strength is easy but once there isn't any use of strength, one must use mind. I remember grandfather.'

She walked at her prior seat and sat down. Men around her moved far away in fear. No one would have guessed that such petite girl of only age twelve could defeat that man of nineteen years!

Everyone looked at her as if seeing a monster.

No matter how others looked at her, she has the most knowledge of how much effort she actually put to become this strong. The past several years was torturous. She was always so tired that after hitting the pillow she would sleep like a death pig. However no one knows this apart from her and her grandpa.

The competition continued but no one was in their right state of mind. Nova was called more than ten times on the stage. She appeared, defeated her opponents and left the stage. She was like a flash of light. Swift in her actions.

Soon the results were announced, and Nova was declared the top fighter for the O High School. The man glared at her hatefully. 

She thought thankfully she wore the boot grandpa made for her. It is extremely sturdy. He even added a sole to aid her height. Afterall she was the youngest among all the people here. Having her age and height both small was very disadvantageous.

When it was seven at evening, everyone left the hall one after another. Nova walked towards the gate and saw her grandfather. 

She waved at him, and her aura warmed a bit. Merrick was standing at the gate and smiled at her. He said, "Let's go. We have to study."

He didn't ask about anything. And such believe made her feel everything she went through is worth it.

Nova nodded. A small smile on her face was very adorable. 

At home.

Nova was doing her math exercise. She looked so focused. Merrick was satisfied but at the same time his heart ache. At such age, she shouldn't be so obedient. She should be like other children happy and naughty. Her maturity pains him.

He approached her and sat down on the chair beside her, "Nova, do you want to go anywhere?"

Nova looked up at him. She looked puzzled.

Merrick smiled and asked, "Do you want to go out and have fun?"

City O is after all filled with fun. The day and night don't matter. The city O has several shops and restaurants to visit. If Nova wants....

"No, grandpa. I have to study. I can roam around the world after I become successful." She smiled a bit.

Merrick naturally knows this but, "This age won't come again. Nova tell me anything you need. I will do my best to fulfill them for you."

Nova blinked. Her grandfather although not very rich, he is very kind. He had done so much for her and still thinks of doing more. He saved her life and give her life. What is more needed? She isn't materialistic to begin with. 

She said, "There isn't anything I want. I'm happy that I'm living and more so because I have grandpa as my family." At a moment her expression turned gentle, "My life is very good already. So, rest assure. Grandpa I'm extremely happy."

Merrick nodded reluctantly. He stood up, "Okay do your work. I will rest a while."

Nova nodded. She again looked down at her work and got engrossed.

Merrick looked back at the child. His eyes turned kind for a moment. Her family...I wonder what they were thinking? Pushing such a lovable child in this abyss of death...

Both daughter and grandpa followed their daily routine. They got the examination invitation in a day. Soon in a blink of an eye, the entrance examination day came.