The Elite

Four years.

Four long, stressful years filled with countless sleepless nights spent studying my notes, and blistering hot days packed with intense training sessions that pushed me to my limits. Yet, after all the sweat and determination, the moment I've been eagerly anticipating has finally come.

Graduation. The culmination of my hard work and resilience, a day I’ve dreamed about for what feels like an eternity. The day I will transition and finally become a part of The Elite.

In our graduating class at Crescent Academy, only a select handful of students are handpicked by our esteemed professors—a distinction that represents the pinnacle of achievement one can attain here. This honor is not only a recognition of academic excellence; it symbolizes our relentless dedication and commitment to honing in our skills to defeat our targets. For those fortunate enough to be chosen, we will be branded with the emblem of the Elite—a striking crescent moon. This symbol serves as a constant reminder to our adversaries that we are not weak humans, but a representation of determination and skill. The crescent moon ensures that all who face us recognize that we are the best of the best.

I need to start preparing, because in just a few hours, everything is going to change. Sitting at my vanity, I open my makeup bag and pour its contents onto the smooth surface, watching as lipsticks, brushes, and palettes scatter like confetti. Normally, I loathe the thought of applying makeup, but today is different—today is a special occasion, and I feel a flutter of excitement mingling with my nerves.

I stare at my reflection in the mirror; the foundation adds a slight glow to my porcelain skin, and the eyeshadow I chose makes my green eyes pop. My long brunette hair is lightly curled as it flows past my shoulders. I decided to go with a long olive green dress and a pair of black heels, but the heel is small so I don’t risk snapping my ankle.

———

The moment has arrived. All one hundred of us stand in file, anticipation buzzing in the air as we prepare to be escorted into the expansive gymnasium, a space filled with soaring ceilings and the echo of excited family members and friends just on the other side. Once we take our seats, everything we've worked for will change in an instant. For those not selected among us, graduation still awaits them, but it will be a lower level of recognition. Some may opt to repeat the grueling four years at the academy, determined to prove themselves worthy. Others might find their path as assistants to the Elite, tasked with ensuring that we are equipped with uniforms, weapons, and various essential supplies. A fortunate few might even be entrusted with the chance to aid in critical missions.

“Pst,” a familiar whisper floats through the air from somewhere behind me, pulling me from my daydream. I don’t need to turn around to know who’s trying to get my attention; it’s my best friend Kalem.

As I turn around, I see him standing with at least twenty people in between us, his charming smile practically glowing under the vibrant lights of the room. His eyes sparkle with excitement as he enthusiastically mouths, “Let’s gooo.”

A grin spreads across my face, and I can’t help but roll my eyes at his energy. Kalem has been buzzing about graduation since our very first day at the academy when we became friends. I shook my head at the time, just as I do now, amused by his relentless enthusiasm. He’s ridiculous, but in the best way.

“Alright students,” our commissioner announces, effectively cutting through the buzz of animated conversation that fills the hall. We all pivot to face him, anticipation etched on everyone’s faces. “It’s time. I will ask that you remain in a single file line as we proceed into the gymnasium, keeping your places as you fill the rows. If you’ve lined up correctly, you should find your name marking your seat when you reach it. Any questions?”

A profound silence blankets the room. It's palpable—every one of us is brimming with excitement to finally kick off this long-awaited graduation ceremony, even those who didn’t quite make the cut to join the ranks of the Elite.

As we step through the towering doors into the gymnasium, the atmosphere shifts dramatically; the crowd, once lively, now falls into a hushed silence. The soft strains of music float through the air, swelling as those seated above us rise to their feet in a wave of appreciation. We take our designated seats, the rustling of fabric accompanying our movements, and our commissioner ascends the stage. With an inviting gesture, he signals for the audience to be seated, their excitement still palpable. Massive banners decorated with Crescent Academy’s emblem hang majestically from the ceiling, casting a vibrant aura over the stage. This is it—the moment we’ve all been eagerly awaiting.

“Friends, family, faculty, and staff,” he begins, his voice resonating through the gymnasium, drawing our attention entirely. “My name is Professor Dunlap, and I am the commissioner here at Crescent Academy. Throughout my many roles at this esteemed institution, I have witnessed remarkable achievements unfold within these walls, from those who’ve excelled to those who’ve grown immeasurably—whether they’ve earned their place in the Elite or not. Today, every student will be recognized in one form or another, and it is my distinct honor to preside over this celebration.” With a gracious gesture toward the student body, he breaks into a warm smile. “So, without further ado, let us begin, shall we?”

“Woo!” Kalem cheers into the stillness, and a wave of laughter ripples through the crowd. Everyone is well aware of his enthusiastic views on graduating.

“Alright, let’s get started,” Professor Dunlap says, his voice steady and authoritative. “First, I want to introduce our remarkable staff. These dedicated individuals are the very backbone of our academy, and without their unwavering support, none of this would be possible. I kindly ask that you hold your applause until I’ve called every professor’s name, after which you may show your appreciation.”

We nod in agreement, along with the audience, understanding the importance of maintaining order during this momentous occasion.

“First up, we have Professor Hawkins, our weapon specialist,” he announces, his tone filled with respect. “Next, Professor Harley, our insightful psychological analyst.” He continues to roll off the names with a rhythm that captures the audience’s attention, building anticipation for the final introductions. “And finally, we have the ever-patient Professor Anderson, our combat specialist, and Professor James, our survival specialist.”

At that, we erupt into applause, rising from our seats in gratitude for the dedicated professors who have guided us through our journeys. Professor Anderson, in particular, deserves every bit of recognition; his patience with me as I honed my combat skills was nothing short of remarkable, especially considering how much I struggled at times.

As our applause gradually fades, the commissioner steps forward to the podium once again. “Thank you once more for all that you've done for these students and generations before them. Now, it is with immense pride that I turn the spotlight towards our graduating class. These remarkable individuals have dedicated four strenuous years to their studies, pushing their limits both in the classroom and on the competitive fields.”

The commissioner continues with the graduation ceremony, shifting his focus to those students who weren’t selected for the Elite.

But our time has finally arrived.

“Now, the moment we’ve all been eagerly anticipating. It is my distinct pleasure to introduce the top twenty-five students, handpicked by our esteemed professors and myself to join the Elite. As I call your name, I ask that you rise and make your way towards the seats positioned here on the stage, filling them from back to front. Audience, please hold your applause until the last student has settled into their seats.” He straightens the papers in his hand, the soft rustle echoing in the hushed auditorium, and clears his throat, readying himself for the momentous announcement. “Eli Mason. Carla Bridges. Jack Hoff.” His voice resonates, continuing to read through the names until he nears the end. “Lily Ray. Jimmy Bane. Kalem Bryer." My heart swells with pride as I silently cheer for Kalem, watching him beam as he rises and navigates his way to the stage. “Kay Lane. Dave Grim. Christian James. And last but certainly not least, Erika Byers.”

A surge of exhilaration pulses through me as I stand, my heart racing in my chest as if it were about to leap out. The sheer joy enveloping me in this moment is beyond words. I carefully lift the hem of my black graduation gown, allowing myself to maneuver up the stairs. As I ascend, I glance upwards, feeling the collective gaze of the audience fixated upon me, their expressions slightly blurred by the dazzling, bright lights casting a halo around the stage. When I finally reach my designated chair at the front, I turn to face the crowd, and a euphoric wave of cheers erupts, flooding over us. Whistles ring out and bounce off the walls.

I steal a glance at Kalem, who is seated in the front row alongside me, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he winks and beams at me with a grin that seems to light up the entire gymnasium. My heart swells with emotion, and a few tears threaten to spill over as I take in the support surrounding us.

“Thank you, family and friends, for following our guidelines and ensuring this graduation ceremony has ran smoothly thus far. You may be seated,” he gestures gracefully toward us, and the audience responds in unison. “These remarkable young men and women before you represent the bright future of the Elites. Our professors have a few students in this group they would like to speak on, so I will first turn the microphone over to Professor Hawkins.”

He strides confidently towards the front, his graying hair gleaming under the brilliant lights that illuminate the room. The deep lines etched on his forehead and the delicate crows feet framing his expressive eyes serve as testimony to the wisdom of his years. He delivers a heartfelt speech about one of the Elites, his voice resonating with both authority and warmth. As a few other professors step forward, each sharing their own anecdotes, my attention is abruptly seized when Professor Anderson rises and makes his way to the microphone. Known for his dislike of the spotlight and aversion to crowds, his presence commands an unexpected gravity.

“Good evening, everyone. I’m Professor Anderson, the combat specialist here at Crescent Academy.” His voice is firm yet inviting, contrasting with his youthful appearance. In his mid-thirties, with short, tousled brunette hair and a faded beard that adds a rugged charm, he seems almost boyish among the older faculty members because of their age. “I typically don’t speak at graduations, but tonight, I feel compelled to acknowledge one of our students, Ms. Byers.” He gestures toward me with a nod, prompting me to stand as the other honored students had before me. A sudden rush of warmth floods my cheeks, because I didn't expect this.

“Ms. Erika Byers started her journey with us as a quiet, reserved student, often overlooked in the chaos of combat training. Many underestimate the potential of the more reserved students, especially when it comes to the females. Yet, after countless hours of practice and dedication, she has grown, showcasing fluidity and precision in her movements that I’ve only seen in a few students over the past seven years. She has beat her opponents I’ve thrown her way during training, including some of the more seasoned male students.” A ripple of laughter fills the room, lightening the atmosphere.

“I am proud to support her nomination to become an Elite. I’ll admit I had my reservations at first, but witnessing her growth and confidence has been inspiring. Even when faced with one of the vampires that we keep here at the academy for training, she stood her ground and fought tactfully. She carries some scars from those intense sessions, but they serve as badges of honor, evidence of her skill. It was my privilege to have been apart of that journey. Thank you.” He left the podium and a wave of clapping and cheers roar in the air.

I settle back into my seat, wiping away a tear, overwhelmed by the kindness of the unexpected surprise that made an already wonderful evening even more special.

“Thank you Professor Anderson, I agree that Ms. Byers was a top pick for a lot of us here at Crescent Academy,” the commissioner takes the stand once again. “Well family and friends, I want to again thank you all for attending this special moment, and for trusting us in guiding these young men and women down the path to success. We value every student here, Elite or not, and take pride in what we do.” He turns his attention towards us and smiles. “Welcome to the Elite.”