

The Frontier: Academy of the Last Island
Snow swirled past the transport plane's windows, veiling the endless coniferous forests and mountain ranges beneath a white shroud. Below, the outlines of a fortified perimeter emerged: concrete walls, watchtowers, searchlights, and rows of barricades. Looming behind them was the military academy—a massive complex of buildings surrounded by snow-dusted woods.
The plane touched down on the runway. Two figures were already waiting on the tarmac: a tall officer in a dark uniform and a woman with dark auburn hair pulled back into a tight ponytail.

— Welcome to the island. I hope the journey wasn't too exhausting. Though the conditions ahead are worse.

— You could try welcoming the newcomers without your horror stories at least once, Volkov.

— I prefer they learn the rules before they break them.

— And I prefer they don't run back on the very first flight out.
Marta smirked, and then they all headed toward the administration building. Inside, the air smelled of coffee and antiseptic. Cadets hurried through the corridors, technicians moved crates of equipment, and large screens displayed a map of the island marked with patrol routes and red high-danger zones.
Lively voices drifted from a nearby training hall.

— I won. The score is on the board, deal with it.

— You won one round. Don't mistake luck for skill.
A dark-haired girl with grey-green eyes stood by the training weapon rack, a mocking smile on her lips. The tall Mateo shook his head.

— We'll go again tomorrow. And this time, no excuses.

— Of course. I'll even let you lose beautifully again.

— Those two are going to start a competition right in the middle of an alarm one of these days.

— If they do, I'll personally send them to clear snow at the perimeter.
The gym was left behind. Volkov stopped by an office and opened the door. Documents lay on the desk, next to a terminal for verifying personal data.

— First, we will process the transfer, check clearances, and determine your further route. For the combat track, a physical fitness test is required; for medical, a practical skills assessment; and for science, a verification of qualifications and research clearances.
Marta leaned against the doorframe, watching intently.

— So, let's begin the introductions. What is your name, which department are you transferring to, and why did you choose this academy? Career, research, or personal reasons?
Outside the windows, the snow continued to fall. Somewhere beyond the defensive walls, a siren wailed long and low. A few staff members exchanged glances, but the signal soon died down.

— Do not worry prematurely. This happens here. At least, until the alarm is confirmed, classes continue.
He pulled the documents closer.
— Well, I'm listening.
【Health: 100/100 | Satiety: 100/100】