《Successor of Despair》


 Chapter 1: Kassandra

    This is a story about a woman and why she felt she had no other choice but to abandon life and embrace death.


    It began on the day a girl was born to a commoner mother and a baron father. Her birth was a mistake¡ªone that unexpectedly became a source of fortune and joy for both parents. The mother, Loretta, and the father, Christopher Ulysses, baron of Ulys, named the child Kassandra.


    Kassandra Ulysses.


    Years passed like the wind¡ªswift and unnoticed. Kassandra¡¯s features became more defined: her raven-black hair and green eyes were striking. Childish and joyful, she was always smiling from ear to ear. Her father doted on her¡ªshe was his only daughter, after all. But the same couldn¡¯t be said for her mother. Loretta didn¡¯t view Kassandra as a daughter or a beloved child. Instead, she saw her as a tool, something that could bring her closer to the baron¡¯s power and wealth. Though Loretta didn¡¯t mistreat Kassandra, she never showed her love either.


    And so, her childhood passed¡ªquiet and uneventful.


    That is, until a month after her 16th birthday.


    We find Kassandra in her room, screaming as loudly as she could, rolling on the floor in agony. Two maids rushed in as fast as possible.


    ¡°Go! Get the baron and baroness! Go!¡± one maid yelled to the other, who stood frozen in horror. Snapping out of her daze, the second maid dashed to inform the baron. Meanwhile, the first maid stayed with Kassandra, trying in vain to help her.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Less than a minute later, Christopher Ulysses sprinted toward Kassandra¡¯s room, arriving breathless. ¡°What¡¯s happening!?¡± he demanded as he burst through the door.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, my lord!¡± the maid replied hurriedly. ¡°We heard a loud noise from Lady Kassandra¡¯s room, and within moments she started screaming. We came to check on her, and she¡¯s been like this ever since!¡±


    As the maid explained, others, including Loretta, entered the room. Christopher turned, ordering a maid to fetch a doctor immediately. Then, with deep concern, he knelt beside his daughter, his eyes filled with worry. Loretta approached, asking in a clipped tone, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Kassy?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. We¡¯re waiting for the doctor,¡± Christopher replied, his voice strained.


    Kassandra continued to scream, writhing on the floor in pain.


    A few minutes later, the doctor arrived and knelt to examine Kassandra. But as soon as he touched her hand to check her pulse, a violent shockwave exploded from her body. A sound like breaking chains echoed through the mansion. Everyone inside could hear it.


    The force of the shockwave sent the doctor flying against the wall, injuring him. Maids rushed to his side, checking if he was okay. Those still in the room shielded their faces from the gust of wind that followed.


    Then, just as suddenly, everything went still. Silence fell over the room. Kassandra lay motionless on the floor, her eyes closed as if she were merely sleeping. Another doctor was summoned, and this time, he was able to examine her without incident. His diagnosis was grim: Kassandra had fallen into a coma.


    ¡°A coma? When will she wake up?¡± Christopher asked, his face etched with worry.


    ¡°When someone is in a coma, it¡¯s impossible to say. It could be an hour¡­ or it could be years,¡± the doctor replied solemnly.


    There was nothing they could do but wait. And so, they waited.

 Chapter 2: Altar

    Years passed, and still, Kassandra did not wake. Many people forgot about her, except for those caring for her lifeless body and her father, Christopher. In those five years, Loretta and Christopher had another child¡ªa boy named Alexios, now two and a half years old.


    But let¡¯s turn back the clock five years and see what was happening in Kassandra¡¯s mind while her body lay dormant.


    After falling into the coma, Kassandra¡¯s consciousness awakened, though her body remained still. Trapped within her own mind, all she could see was darkness¡ªa void that seemed endless, as is often the case in these spaces. With nothing to do and no sense of direction, she began to move, floating aimlessly into the unknown.


    Time became meaningless in that vast emptiness. What felt like an eternity passed¡ªone and a half years, to be precise¡ªbefore she finally stumbled upon something: a black and dark green altar.


    As she approached it, the altar flared to life, casting an eerie glow that illuminated the surrounding space for kilometers in every direction. Left, right, up, and down¡ªeverything was bathed in the unsettling light. The sudden brightness caught Kassandra off guard, shocking her after so long in the dark.


    Then she heard it¡ªa voice emanating from the altar, cold and commanding. ¡°Place your hand on the altar,¡± it instructed.


    Without hesitation, Kassandra obeyed.


    The moment her hand made contact, dark energy engulfed her entire being. In mere seconds, the energy separated from her, morphing into an exact copy of herself, the only difference being their eyes. The doppelg?nger¡¯s eyes glowed with an ominous dark green light, its eyes piercing her very soul.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    Kassandra stared at the figure, terror and disbelief flooding her senses.


    Before she could process what was happening, the doppelg?nger rushed forward and touched her forehead with a single finger. Instantly, Kassandra felt her body lose all strength, collapsing to the ground like a limp ragdoll. The entity gazed down at her with absolutely no emotion. If you looked into its glowing eyes, you would see Kassandra¡¯s confusion and fear reflected in them.


    Seconds stretched into minutes, and her expression twisted in pain. Minutes bled into hours, and Kassandra¡¯s mouth opened in a scream. Agony coursed through her. This torment dragged on for two long years, each day filled with deeper misery and mounting despair. Slowly, the emotional pain consumed her entirely, until there was nothing left but desperation.


    Finally, after what seemed like forever, the doppelg?nger spoke, its voice dripping with malice:


    ¡°Remember this feeling. This is misery. This is agony. They lead to desperation. This is your power¡ªDespair. Now, you will understand what it means to experience it. Study the faces of other desperate souls, and see how they fall into it. Only then will you be worthy of knowing my name.¡±


    The moment the entity finished speaking, Kassandra¡¯s suffering paused. Abruptly, she found herself witnessing someone leaping from a high place. She screamed in horror¡ªit was her first time watching someone die. But the nightmare didn¡¯t stop. One after another, more people appeared, each dying in front of her in different, gruesome ways. The only common thread was their despair.


    Another year and a half passed like this, with Kassandra forced to witness scene after scene of death and desperation. Then, the being spoke again:


    ¡°Have you learned what Despair is? Because when you hear my name¡ªand you will¡ªit will bring a despair far greater than any you¡¯ve witnessed here.¡±


    ¡°No! Please! No! Please, don¡¯t!¡± Kassandra cried out, her voice trembling with fear.


    Ignoring her desperate pleas, the doppelg?nger placed its finger on her forehead once more and said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s disappointing, but you are not yet ready to embrace Despair. First, you must experience true Agony.¡±


    Withdrawing its finger, the entity¡¯s voice rang out one last time, fervent and commanding:


    ¡°Go now. Awaken, my successor!¡±

 Chapter 3: Waking Up

    Kassandra¡¯s eyes snapped open. She tried to sit up, but her body was too weak after five long years in a coma.


    ¡°Someone... help¡­¡± she called out, her voice hoarse from disuse.


    A maid standing outside heard her faint voice and rushed into the room. She froze in shock, eyes wide with disbelief as she saw Kassandra awake.


    Kassandra noticed the maid¡¯s stunned expression and asked impatiently, ¡°Are you going to help me or just stand there?¡±


    That snapped the maid out of her stupor.


    ¡°Lady Kassandra... you¡¯re awake?!¡± the maid stammered, her voice cracking with emotion.


    ¡°Does it look like I¡¯m still asleep? Of course, I¡¯m awake!¡± Kassandra replied with a sarcastic edge, as if she¡¯d forgotten everything that happened in her mind space. ¡°Now, help me up. I... I can¡¯t move my body.¡±


    The maid quickly nodded. ¡°Yes, my lady!¡± She rushed to Kassandra¡¯s side and gently helped her sit up in bed.


    ¡°Go get my father,¡± Kassandra ordered, her voice growing stronger.


    ¡°Yes, right away!¡± The maid hurried out of the room to find the baron.


    Christopher burst into the room moments later, his emotions in turmoil. Without saying a word, he wrapped his arms around Kassandra in a tight embrace.


    ¡°It¡¯s so good to see you awake!¡± he exclaimed, his voice thick with relief.


    ¡°Why are you being so dramatic? How long have I been asleep?¡± Kassandra asked, her tone oddly casual.


    ¡°It¡¯s been five years since you fell into a coma. We¡¯ve all been waiting for you to wake up.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­ Five years? Was I in that place for five years? No way!¡± Kassandra¡¯s disbelief was clear in her voice.


    ¡°What place are you talking about?¡± Christopher asked, his face creased with concern.


    As Kassandra tried to recall the memories from her mind space, her breathing grew erratic. Her eyes filled with terror, and tears spilled down her cheeks uncontrollably.


    ¡°Kassandra, what¡¯s wrong? Kassandra!¡± Christopher shook her gently, trying to snap her out of it, but nothing worked.


    Panicking, Christopher called for the doctor who had treated her for all those years. Coincidentally, it was the same doctor who had diagnosed her coma five years ago.


    ¡°Baron,¡± the doctor began after examining her, ¡°it seems she¡¯s been deeply traumatized by something, but it¡¯s difficult to pinpoint. The brain is the most complex and delicate organ in the human body. I can¡¯t say anything for certain.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ if I may, baron?¡± the doctor asked cautiously.


    ¡°Go ahead. Speak freely. If it¡¯s about Kassandra, I need to hear it,¡± Christopher replied, trying to keep his emotions in check.


    ¡°Are you familiar with origins, sources, and successors?¡± the doctor inquired.


    ¡°Of course. Anyone with a basic grasp of history would be,¡± Christopher answered, then paused as realization struck him. ¡°Wait¡­ are you suggesting¡ª¡±A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ¡°Yes. After researching the cause of her coma, I believe it¡¯s possible Lady Kassandra has been chosen by an origin,¡± the doctor revealed.


    ¡°That... that¡¯s impossible¡­¡± Christopher murmured, struggling to process the idea.


    As they discussed it, Kassandra¡ªstill shaken¡ªheard every word. Mustering all her strength, she asked in a trembling voice, ¡°Am I... am I a successor?¡±


    Both Christopher and the doctor turned to face her, but neither responded. Kassandra repeated herself, louder this time, her voice still trembling:


    ¡°Am I a successor?!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not sure,¡± Christopher finally responded, his voice heavy with uncertainty. ¡°But it¡¯s possible. You falling into a coma, experiencing pain before you collapsed¡­ these could all be signs of an awakening.¡±


    The room fell into an uneasy silence. No one spoke or moved. After what felt like an eternity, Kassandra broke the quiet.


    ¡°What happens to me now?¡± she asked, her face blank, devoid of emotion. As memories from the coma slowly resurfaced, she felt her feelings slipping away, numbed by the despair she had endured for so long.


    ¡°I... I don¡¯t know,¡± Christopher admitted, his sadness evident.


    ¡°If I may, Lady Kassandra,¡± the doctor began, his tone respectful. Kassandra glanced at him and gave a silent nod, urging him to continue.


    ¡°Ever since you fell into the coma, I¡¯ve been researching potential causes. As I mentioned earlier, you may have awakened as a successor. I can¡¯t be certain, but can you tell me what you experienced while unconscious?¡±


    ¡°Fine,¡± Kassandra sighed and began to recount her time in the mind space.


    ¡°In the beginning, there was only darkness¡ªno light, no objects, nothing. After calming down, I decided to move. I realized I could float, so I drifted, though I had no idea how much time passed. It felt like an eternity,¡± she paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. ¡°After what seemed like forever, I found an altar. It was black and dark green, the only thing I had seen in all that time. So I approached it. To my shock, the altar spoke and told me to place my hand on it. I didn¡¯t know what else to do, so I obeyed. The moment I touched it, I was engulfed in darkness. I felt like I was drowning. Then, the darkness separated from me and morphed¡ªinto me.¡±


    Kassandra took another deep breath before continuing her story.


    ¡°After it took my form, everything blurred. I can¡¯t remember all the details, but I remember feeling Despair. After that, I was forced to witness countless people die¡ªsome jumped from high places, others took their lives in other ways. It felt like it lasted forever. I lost track of how many died before my eyes. Then, the entity warned me that if I learned its name, I would experience a far greater Despair than anything I had seen.¡± She paused, shuddering. ¡°I¡¯ve never been so terrified in my life.¡±


    She finished, her words hanging in the air. Both Christopher and the doctor were speechless, staring at her in disbelief. It took several minutes before Christopher managed to speak.


    ¡°Did it¡­ tell you its name?¡± he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°Thankfully, no,¡± Kassandra replied. She turned to the doctor. ¡°So, what now? I¡¯ve told you everything I remember. What do you think?¡±


    The doctor sighed. ¡°Being a successor means you have an origin. An origin is the source of your powers, and from what you¡¯ve described, your origin may be connected with Despair. Despair is likely the essence of your origin, meaning you can wield it. The entity making you endure that was probably necessary for you to gain those powers.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s as much as I know,¡± the doctor continued, glancing between Kassandra and Christopher.


    ¡°You¡¯ll need to consult a specialist in the history of the Age of Origins. They may be able to tell you more.¡±


    ¡°Where can we find such a person?¡± Christopher asked.


    ¡°They¡¯re more common than you might think. Successors aren¡¯t as rare as they seem,¡± the doctor replied. ¡°For example, you may not know this, but Duke Alastor is a successor.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Christopher said, turning to Kassandra. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this. I¡¯ll be with you every step of the way.¡±


    Kassandra looked at her father for a moment before remembering something. ¡°Where is Mother?¡±


    ¡°Loretta? She¡¯s with Alexios,¡± Christopher replied casually.


    ¡°Alexios?¡± Kassandra echoed, confused.


    ¡°Oh, right... You wouldn¡¯t know. Alexios is your baby brother. He¡¯s already two and a half years old,¡± Christopher explained, his tone lightening.


    ¡°I have a brother? That¡¯s... great,¡± Kassandra said, though her face remained emotionless.


    Christopher noticed but chose not to comment, understanding that her trauma wouldn¡¯t disappear overnight. Before they could speak further, Kassandra¡¯s stomach growled audibly.


    ¡°Can I get something to eat? I¡¯m really hungry,¡± she asked, slightly embarrassed.


    Christopher nodded and instructed the maid to have the chef prepare a meal for her.


    Thirty minutes later, a delicious meal was brought to Kassandra. She ate quickly, savoring each bite, unaware that two people were quietly approaching her room.

 Chapter 4: Specialist

    The door swung open with a bit of force, revealing Loretta holding a small figure by the hand.


    ¡°Good to see you awake, Kassy,¡± Loretta said, her voice flat, as if addressing a long-lost object rather than her daughter.


    ¡°Hello to you, too, Mother,¡± Kassandra replied coolly. Loretta showed no reaction, her gaze drifting down to the child beside her.


    ¡°Come on, Alex, say hello to your older sister.¡±


    Alexios, shy and unsure, looked up at Kassandra. She met his gaze, and with a slight stutter, he managed, ¡°H...hello.¡±


    Kassandra felt a warm sensation seeing her little brother¡¯s timid nature, though it wasn¡¯t enough to ease the weight of the trauma still clinging to her.


    ¡°Alright, Alex. Let¡¯s leave your sister to rest now,¡± Loretta said, gently pulling him away. The two exited, leaving Kassandra alone, staring at the closed door. Her thoughts swirled.


    ¡®Why does Loretta feel so strange?¡¯ she wondered, though she was too exhausted to dwell on it. Her eyelids grew heavy, and soon, she succumbed to sleep.


    ***


    Meanwhile, In Her Mind Space


    ¡°She will experience Agony, no matter what.¡± The dark green and black entity¡ªKassandra¡¯s origin¡ªspoke into the void. Its tone was neutral, its form now revealed.


    From head to toe, the entity was pitch black, blending seamlessly with the surrounding void. Its glowing dark green eyes peeked through small gaps in its cascading hair, which was a mix of dark green and black, stretching far below¡ªabout six times its towering height of 194 centimeters. Dressed in a tattered black robe, this was Kassandra¡¯s true origin.


    But why had he chosen her? What was the full extent of his powers? Was Despair truly his essence, as Kassandra, Christopher, and the doctor suspected, or was there something more sinister behind it all?


    ***


    The next morning, Kassandra attempted to stand, but her strength was still lacking. She managed to pull herself up from the bed, only to lose her balance and fall back onto the mattress.


    ¡°Curses!¡± she yelled in frustration. Defeated, she lay there, waiting for someone to arrive. After about ten minutes, the door opened¡ªnot to reveal a maid, but her father, Christopher.


    ¡°Father? What are you doing here? Aren¡¯t you busy?¡± Kassandra asked, surprised.


    ¡°I always have time for you,¡± Christopher replied warmly. ¡°As for why I¡¯m here¡ªwell, I¡¯ve managed to find a specialist for successors. He¡¯ll be here in two weeks.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Kassandra replied, though her voice remained flat and emotionless.


    Concerned, but choosing not to press her, Christopher said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to rest.¡± He turned to leave the room.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Kassandra called out.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Can you send one of the maids to help me?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Christopher responded, leaving to fulfill her request.


    ***


    Time flew by, and soon, only a day remained before the specialist¡¯s arrival. While waiting, Kassandra noticed something odd with her vision. A dark green mist seemed to emanate from many people around her. Unsure whether it was linked to her newly awakened powers, she decided to wait until the specialist arrived for answers. The next day, a carriage approached the Ulys estate.


    ¡°Welcome to our humble home,¡± Christopher greeted the man stepping out of the carriage.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± the young man replied, smiling. His spiky dark green hair making his seem unique. ¡°So, where is the successor?¡±


    ¡°Follow me,¡± the baron answered, leading him to Kassandra¡¯s room.


    The young man followed closely, and soon they arrived. Christopher knocked gently before opening the door. Kassandra was sitting in a chair, reading a book about the Age of Origin¡ªa subject that had piqued her interest since her awakening.


    Seeing the door open, Kassandra looked up and saw her father and a kind-looking young man.


    ¡°Hello. Nice to meet you. I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t stand to greet you properly,¡± Kassandra said.


    ¡°That¡¯s no problem. I¡¯m not one for etiquette myself,¡± the young man responded with a friendly smile. ¡°I¡¯m Darius Granith, a Silver-Ranked Seeker from the Impenetrable Defence Origin Department.¡± He extended his hand.


    Kassandra took his hand and shook it gently. ¡°Hello, Mr. Granith. I¡¯m Kassandra Ulysses.¡±


    After the introduction, Darius settled into a chair nearby and asked, ¡°I¡¯d like to hear about your experience while you were in the coma.¡±


    Kassandra retold her story, detailing the events in her mind space. When she finished, Darius sat silently, his expression thoughtful.


    ¡°Your description matches that of someone who has undergone an awakening. Awakening can happen at any age, though the ideal window is between 15 and 20. Falling into a coma at 16 means you¡¯ve had what we call a ¡®perfect awakening.¡¯ However, being in a coma for five years is highly unusual. Normally, a newly awakened successor enters a coma to communicate with their origin and learn about their source. But each origin has its own personality. Yours kept you there for five years and subjected you to something called Despair. That is likely part of its title. All origins have titles, like the ¡®Righteous Titan,¡¯ for example.¡±


    Darius paused, allowing the information to sink in before continuing.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    ¡°However, a title is not the same as the name. A title is what history remembers and how others know an origin. The name, however, is known only to the successor. An origin only reveals its true name when it deems the successor worthy. Based on what you¡¯ve told me, your origin wanted you to experience Despair, which suggests it belongs to the Chaotic faction. The Chaotic faction is more obscure than the Orderly faction, but there are some known origins that might fit. Let¡¯s see... The Gloomful Wraith? No, that doesn¡¯t seem right. The Abyssal Eye? No, not that either. I can¡¯t match your description to any origins I know, but higher-ranked historians may be able to help.¡±


    Kassandra absorbed his words before asking, ¡°Let¡¯s put the origin aside for now. What should I do next? How do I proceed?¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Darius began, ¡°as I¡¯ve told many other successors, you need to choose a faction, a department, and a subject. The faction is the broadest choice. In the Primordial Tower, there are three factions: Orderly, Chaotic, and Neutral. The Orderly faction specializes in successors with Orderly origins, while the Chaotic faction focuses on Chaotic origins. The Neutral faction is unique¡ªit¡¯s made up of various smaller departments and isn¡¯t bound to a specific type of origin. After selecting a faction, you¡¯ll choose a department. In the Orderly and Chaotic factions, departments are generally categorized by type of origin. In the Neutral faction, there are many unique and varied departments. Lastly, you¡¯ll select a subject, which can overlap across different departments.¡±


    Kassandra furrowed her brow. ¡°That¡¯s a lot to think about.¡±


    ¡°Haha, it is!¡± Darius chuckled.


    ¡°You said you¡¯re from the Impenetrable Defence Origin Department. Which faction does that belong to?¡± Kassandra asked, curious.


    ¡°Haha, curious, eh? Well, I¡¯m from the Neutral faction. The study of the Pillar of Protection is highly regarded, and it¡¯s one of the largest department in the Neutral faction,¡± Darius replied with a grin.


    ¡°Does she need a recommendation, or do we have to pay for her entry into the Primordial Tower?¡± Christopher chimed in.


    ¡°Well, every three months, the tower holds an entrance event. As long as you can prove you¡¯re a successor, you¡¯ll be allowed entry,¡± Darius explained.


    ¡°So, only successors can enter the Primordial Tower?¡± Christopher asked.


    ¡°Yes and no. In the Orderly and Chaotic factions, being a successor is mandatory. But in the Neutral faction, both successors and regular people can join. Some departments are composed entirely of non-successors,¡± Darius replied.


    ¡°Are you a successor?¡± Kassandra asked suddenly.


    Darius looked at her for a moment before answering, ¡°I am. But let me give you some advice¡ªnever ask someone about their origin¡¯s title and never reveal what yours is. It¡¯s considered impolite and intrusive.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for telling me,¡± Kassandra nodded.


    ¡°Is there anything else you¡¯d like to know? If not, I¡¯d like to rest. The journey here was long,¡± Darius said.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing more I need to know right now. Thank you for explaining everything,¡± Kassandra replied with gratitude.


    For the next two days, Darius stayed at the Ulysses estate, sharing his knowledge of the Age of Origin with Kassandra. On the final day, Kassandra, Christopher, and a few maids gathered outside to bid Darius farewell as he prepared to leave for the tower.


    ¡°Thank you for your help,¡± Christopher said, extending his hand for a handshake.


    ¡°No problem at all. It¡¯s my duty to help guide new successors through their awakening,¡± Darius replied, shaking his hand firmly. Then, turning to Kassandra, he said, ¡°Farewell, Kassandra. When you visit the tower, don¡¯t forget to come and see me.¡±


    ¡°I will,¡± Kassandra promised.


    With that, Darius climbed into his carriage and began his long journey back to the Primordial Tower.


    ***


    Months after Darius¡¯s departure, Kassandra had regained her strength. She stood tall, her expression lighter, a clear sign of recovery both physically and mentally.


    ¡°Sis, play with me!¡± Alexios, full of energy, was bouncing beside her.


    Over the months, Kassandra had grown close to her little brother, and he had opened up to her, now always at her side. They walked together, chatting, on their way to see Christopher. When they reached his office, Kassandra opened the door to find her father buried under a mountain of paperwork, looking exhausted.


    ¡°Oh! Good morning, children,¡± Christopher greeted them, startled.


    ¡°Father, I think it¡¯s time for me to go to the Primordial Tower,¡± Kassandra announced, her tone resolute.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Christopher asked after a brief pause.


    ¡°Yes. There¡¯s no other way,¡± Kassandra replied firmly.


    Christopher sighed. ¡°Alright. If I remember correctly, the next entrance event is in¡ª¡±


    ¡°No, no, no!¡± Alexios suddenly interrupted, startling both Kassandra and Christopher.


    "I don¡¯t want you to go!" Alexios exclaimed, still frustrated.


    "Al, I have to go. I need to understand more about what lies ahead for me," Kassandra explained softly, seeing the sadness in her brother¡¯s eyes.


    "But, but..." Alexios was on the verge of tears.


    "Son, your sister has made up her mind. She has to do this," Christopher said gently to Alexios.


    Hearing this, Alexios couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. Tears welled up in his eyes, and not wanting anyone to see him cry, he turned and ran.


    Christopher and Kassandra stood in silence, watching the direction Alexios had fled.


    "He sure doesn¡¯t want me to leave," Kassandra said, attempting an awkward laugh.


    "He doesn¡¯t," Christopher agreed. "You two have become really close over the last four months."


    Christopher cleared his throat and continued, "As I was saying, the next entrance event at the Primordial Tower is in less than a month¡ªabout 20 days. If you want to get there in time, you should leave tomorrow."


    "Yes, thank you, Father. Thank you for everything," Kassandra said sincerely.


    "Haha, you¡¯re going to make me emotional! Go on, now. Let me get everything ready for your departure," Christopher chuckled.


    With that, Kassandra left her father¡¯s study, heading off to take care of a few final things. She walked for a while before stopping in front of a door. Without knocking or smiling, she opened it and stepped inside.


    Sitting in the room, calmly sipping tea, was her mother, Loretta. As Kassandra entered, Loretta looked up at her with a calm expression and said, "What is it, my dear Kassy?"


    "Don¡¯t call me that," Kassandra snapped, her voice harsh. "Listen carefully!"


    Loretta raised an eyebrow, surprised, but quickly composed herself. "Oh my. What is it?" she asked, her tone unnaturally calm.


    "I remember how you treated me," Kassandra began, her voice cold. "How you neglected me and thought of me as nothing more than an object. If you ever make Alexios go through the same, I¡¯ll do something you¡¯ll regret."


    Loretta took a sip of her tea, not even acknowledging Kassandra¡¯s words. "You must still be traumatized from your awakening. I¡¯ll speak to the doctor and have him check on you," she said dismissively.


    Kassandra turned to leave but stopped at the door. "Just remember what I said," she warned before walking out.


    Loretta, unfazed, calmly resumed drinking her tea as if nothing had happened.


    Kassandra was wandering the halls, frustration bubbling inside her, when a small voice called from behind. "Sis... please don¡¯t go."


    Kassandra turned around to see Alexios, tears in his eyes. She knelt down to his level and spoke gently. "You¡¯re a big boy now, Al. Don¡¯t cry like this."


    Alexios sniffled, trying hard to stop himself from sobbing. "I know... but I¡¯m sad. I don¡¯t want you to leave," he said, his voice trembling.


    Kassandra smiled softly. "I have to, Al. But I promise I¡¯ll visit as often as I can. I¡¯ll send letters, too."


    "But..." Alexios¡¯s tears welled up again.


    Before he could start crying, Kassandra gently took his hand. "Come on, let¡¯s go have lunch. I¡¯ll ask the chef to make something sweet for you," she said, trying to cheer him up.


    Alexios nodded and wiped his eyes. "Okay."


    The next day arrived, and the Ulysses household was bustling with activity. Maids, butlers, Christopher, Loretta, and Alexios were all gathered outside to bid Kassandra farewell. In front of an exquisite carriage stood Kassandra, her family surrounding her.


    "I¡¯ll be going now," Kassandra said, looking at them all. Her eyes briefly stopped on Loretta before turning away.


    She stepped into the carriage and took her seat. Just as the coachman was about to close the door, Kassandra called out to Alexios. "Don¡¯t worry, Al. I¡¯ll be back before you know it."


    Alexios, this time stronger, nodded. "I know. You promised me."


    Kassandra smiled at him before turning to her father. "Goodbye, Father."


    "Farewell, Kassandra. Come back safely," Christopher said, his voice steady but full of emotion.


    Without saying a word to Loretta, Kassandra motioned for the coachman to close the door. Moments later, he climbed to the front, took hold of the reins, and the carriage began to move.


    As it traveled down the road, the carriage grew smaller, fading into the distance until it was just a black dot on the horizon.


    Kassandra¡¯s journey had officially begun.

 Chapter 5: The Primordial Tower

    Twenty days had passed since Kassandra¡¯s departure, and they were now nearing the Primordial Tower. As she looked out of the carriage window, the sight before her filled her with awe. The tower wasn¡¯t just a structure¡ªit was more of a city, bustling with life. From what Darius had told her, the tower itself was the massive building at the heart of the city, dividing it into three regions. Kassandra¡¯s excitement grew. How could she not be thrilled? This was the place where the most successors in the world gathered¡ªa place where she would learn more about herself and the mysterious origin that had chosen her.


    Her gaze remained fixed on the towering city walls in the distance when the coachman interrupted her thoughts.


    ¡°Young Lady, the carriage cannot go any further,¡± John said, giving her a polite reminder.


    ¡°Thank you, John,¡± Kassandra replied as she stepped out of the carriage. Over the past 20 days, she had grown accustomed to John¡¯s quiet demeanor.


    As soon as she got off, Kassandra noticed a large crowd of people gathered ahead, at least a hundred by her estimation. After walking for a bit, she joined the group and saw a raised platform at the front, where three people stood facing the crowd. Time passed, and more people arrived. Eventually, Kassandra struck up a conversation with a girl standing nearby.


    The girl introduced herself as Diana Flores. She had short, wavy brown hair, pinkish-gray eyes, and pale skin. Judging by her elegant pink and white dress, she seemed to be from a noble family.


    ¡°What do you think they¡¯ll have us do?¡± Diana asked, her voice filled with curiosity. She was quite chatty, constantly talking without pause.


    Kassandra didn¡¯t bother answering, knowing Diana would likely answer her own question.


    ¡°Maybe they¡¯ll have us fight each other,¡± Diana mused.


    Before she could pose another question, a booming voice from the platform interrupted her.


    ¡°Silence!¡± the man shouted.


    The crowd fell quiet immediately, including Diana. The speaker, a middle-aged man with a buzz cut and a wild beard, continued. ¡°Today, you will find out if you are truly successors and if you are eligible to join one of the departments.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a young woman next to him took over. ¡°We will place you in an artificial coma so you can communicate with your origin. When you awaken, you must provide proof that you are a successor to enter the city.¡±


    Without another word, the third person on the platform, a young man, raised his hand. One by one, the crowd began dropping into unconsciousness, starting with those closest to the platform. Soon, Kassandra and Diana were among them.


    ***


    Kassandra found herself once again in her mind space¡ªan endless, dark void. But this time, the figure before her was different. It wasn¡¯t her doppelg?nger but a tall male figure with long, flowing hair and piercing green eyes. His gaze bore into her, reflecting her very soul.


    "Hello..." the figure said, his voice calm yet unnerving.


    "Hello again," Kassandra responded.


    "Tell me, what do you seek? I gave you instructions: feel Agony," the figure said, his voice chilling.


    "I don¡¯t know how to," Kassandra admitted. "Also, I need your help. I have to prove I¡¯m a successor¡ªhow do I do that?"


    The long-haired man remained silent for a moment, making Kassandra nervous. Then, without a word, he reached into his chest as if grabbing something where his heart should be. When he pulled his hand out, he was holding a dark, liquid-like orb, swirling with shades of black and green and emitting faint black particles.


    He extended it toward her. Kassandra hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to take it, but in the end, she reached out and grabbed the orb.


    "Shatter it," the man said nonchalantly.


    Kassandra frowned. She tried applying pressure with her palm, but nothing happened. The orb remained intact. Looking back at the figure, she saw his emotionless, piercing eyes watching her. Then, out of nowhere, he asked, "What do you think my title is?"


    Kassandra paused, still fumbling with the orb, before tilting her head in thought. "Something with Despair, Agony, or Misery. You wanted me to feel those things, so it must be related."


    "The Everlasting Despair. That is my title," he said, his voice unwavering. "Now, tell me¡ªhow do you think you can shatter the orb?"


    Kassandra thought hard but eventually admitted, "I don¡¯t know. It can¡¯t be brute force, right?"


    "You need to be prepared for Despair. Do you see the crack in the orb?" he asked.


    Kassandra examined the orb closely and finally noticed a tiny, almost imperceptible crack running along its surface.


    "That crack is what allows you to see Despair," the man explained.


    "See Despair?" Kassandra repeated, confused. When had she seen despair?


    "The black particles you¡¯ve been seeing around some people," the origin clarified.


    Kassandra¡¯s eyes widened in realization. "My mother..."


    The man nodded. "That is your opening. Shatter the orb from there."


    Following his instruction, Kassandra focused on the small crack. At first, it was frustrating¡ªnothing happened. But then, her eyes briefly shifted color, changing from their usual grey to a faint, dim green. In that moment, she could see the way to shatter the orb. Applying just the right amount of pressure, the orb shattered effortlessly in her hands.


    She stared at the broken pieces in disbelief.


    After shattering the orb, Kassandra turned to her origin with a questioning look.


    "What just happened?" she asked.


    "You glimpsed Despair and controlled it¡ªjust enough to shatter the orb," the long-haired man replied.


    "But what exactly did I shatter?" she pressed.


    The man¡¯s voice was chillingly indifferent as he answered, "That was my source."


    Kassandra¡¯s eyes widened in shock. "Why would you let me shatter your source? Isn¡¯t it supposed to be important for origins?"


    "Why would I care about it? I don¡¯t need it anymore," the lifeless figure responded, his voice devoid of emotion.


    Stunned by his apathy, Kassandra paused before asking another question. "What do I do now?"


    The Everlasting Despair looked at her calmly. "Use the fragments that remain to grow stronger."


    "But how?" she inquired further.


    "Continue to understand Despair," he replied, his piercing green eyes unwavering.


    Before Kassandra could ask anything else, her vision began to distort and dim. She struggled to speak, her voice barely a whisper.


    "What¡¯s happening?"


    A moment later, everything went black.


    ***You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    When she opened her eyes again, she was back in the real world.


    Kassandra glanced around and saw Diana standing next to her, already awake and on her feet. As she stood up, she asked, "How long have I been out?"


    Diana turned toward her and smiled slightly. "You¡¯re awake! Good. To answer your question... I don¡¯t know. I have no idea how long I¡¯ve been asleep either. But look around¡ªthere are far fewer people here now than before. Something must have happened while we were out cold," Diana said, her voice trailing off as she speculated further.


    Kassandra only half-listened, focusing instead on what Diana had mentioned about the dwindling crowd.


    Why are there so few of us now? she wondered.


    Her thoughts were interrupted by the booming voice of the middle-aged man on the platform.


    "Attention!" he barked, silencing the remaining crowd. "The ones still standing here are confirmed as successors."


    The young woman beside him stepped forward and addressed the group. "If you¡¯re wondering how you were confirmed, it¡¯s because only those chosen by origins were able to enter the artificial coma we placed you in. Now, if you wish to enter the tower, form a line. Each of you will select a faction. For those unfamiliar, there are three factions: Orderly, Chaotic, and Neutral.


    "If you want to join the Orderly faction, line up behind this gentleman here," she said, gesturing toward the middle-aged man. "If you prefer the Neutral faction, stand behind me. And if the Chaotic faction is your choice, stand behind the young man over there."


    After a bit of shuffling, the crowd formed a line. The first to approach the platform was a man with a slightly nervous expression.


    "Name, age, and faction," the buzzcut man from the Orderly faction asked.


    "George Stone, 28, and I want to join the Orderly faction," the man replied.


    The bearded man nodded with a slight smile. "Good. Stand behind me." Turning to the crowd, he shouted, "Next!"


    One by one, the candidates approached, stated their information, and were directed to their chosen factions.


    Eventually, it was Diana¡¯s turn. She stepped up to the platform, her confidence evident in her cheerful demeanor.


    "Diana Flores, 19, and I choose the Orderly faction," she said brightly.


    The middle-aged man smiled and gestured for her to stand behind him.


    Next was Kassandra. She walked up to the platform, her expression calm but resolute. The bearded man looked her over and repeated the same question.


    "Name, age, and faction."


    "Kassandra Ulysses, 21, and I choose the Chaotic faction," she replied firmly.


    This time, the man didn¡¯t smile. He simply nodded and motioned for her to stand behind the young man representing the Chaotic faction.


    "Next!" the buzzcut man called as Kassandra walked to her place.


    Once everyone had chosen their faction, the young woman on the platform addressed the group.


    "Now, follow your faction representatives to your designated regions. There, you¡¯ll learn more about your roles and what lies ahead."


    After the announcement, the three groups split, each heading to their faction''s designated region. With Diana choosing another faction, Kassandra found herself without anyone familiar.


    The Chaotic faction was the least popular choice, with only seven members out of the original 66. By comparison, the Neutral faction had 47 new members, while the Orderly faction claimed the remaining 12.


    Kassandra glanced around to observe her new colleagues. Including herself, there were four males and three females.


    The first member stood directly behind the representative. Appearing to be in his thirties, he was likely a late awakened. His stern face and sharp features suggested he had little patience for humor or frivolity. His olive-toned skin complemented his short brown hair, neatly cropped on the sides. With striking blue eyes and a muscular build, he towered over Kassandra by 15-20 centimeters, his presence exuding quiet authority.


    The second member was a young woman, seemingly lost in thought. Her pale white skin gave her an almost ethereal look. Her raven-black hair fell over her face, partially concealing her violet-colored eyes. She stood slightly shorter than Kassandra, her slender frame adding to her air of introspection.


    Kassandra stood third in line, her tall frame commanding attention at 180 centimeters. Her olive-toned skin had a warm glow, complementing her deep green eyes that seemed to hold an air of quiet intensity. Wavy, onyx-black hair cascaded down her back, its texture and length adding an effortless elegance to her poised demeanor.


    The fourth member was a man with wild eyes and a manic grin that radiated unsettling energy. His pitch-black hair contrasted sharply with his pale white skin, and his deep crimson eyes seemed to glimmer with chaos. Standing about 10 centimeters taller than Kassandra, his unpredictable aura made him stand out uncomfortably.


    The fifth member, another male, carried an oppressive, gloomy aura that seemed to darken the space around him. His brown skin was complemented by dark brown eyes, and his ash-black hair was tightly curled. A slight beard framed his face, and he stood at roughly the same height as Kassandra, his demeanor subdued and brooding.


    The sixth member was a woman whose calm, nonchalant demeanor made her seem entirely unbothered by the world around her. Her dark skin glowed faintly in the dim light, and her silver-colored eyes matched her braided straight, silvery hair, which cascaded down her back in long, flowing strands. Standing about 5 centimeters taller than Kassandra, her composed presence gave her an air of quiet strength.


    The seventh and final member was a man whose arrogant posture made him immediately noticeable. His pale white skin contrasted with his striking crimson hair, tied in a high ponytail. His golden-colored eyes gleamed with confidence¡ªor perhaps overconfidence¡ªas his smug smirk and raised chin made his insufferable personality all too clear. Slightly taller than Kassandra, he carried himself as if the world revolved around him.


    The group remained in awkward silence as they followed their representative. Nobody spoke¡ªnot the new recruits, nor the representative¡ªand the tension was palpable. Kassandra found the silence particularly uncomfortable.


    Finally, the representative came to a halt, turning to face them. For the first time, he spoke, his voice measured and authoritative.


    ¡°First, let me introduce myself. My name is Anach Zokrell, and I¡¯ll be your handler for the next year,¡± he began. ¡°Second, this will be your home from now on. You¡¯re free to enter and explore. If you have any important questions, you can bring them to me¡ªbut only if they¡¯re important.¡±


    Anach began handing out keys to each of them, continuing as he did so. ¡°Lastly, tomorrow we¡¯ll begin with the serious work. Today, you can rest and get to know your new housemates. And try not to cause too much trouble.¡±


    With that, Anach entered the building and ascended a staircase that was immediately visible from the entryway, leaving the group standing together in silence.


    Kassandra and the others exchanged glances before entering the building one by one. Inside, the space was functional but unimpressive. The decor was plain, and the furniture looked well-used. Kassandra noticed the arrogant man¡¯s face twist in displeasure as he surveyed his surroundings.


    The group wandered through the building, taking in their new home. Eventually, they found a common room with several couches and chairs¡ªa resting area of sorts. Some of them sat down, while others leaned against the walls, clearly reluctant to relax around strangers.


    Kassandra took a moment to prepare herself, planning to introduce herself and break the ice. However, before she could speak, the arrogant man stepped forward and took the initiative, interrupting her.


    ¡°My name is Lucian Abelheart.¡± His tone was as smug as his expression. ¡°If any of you need help, you can come to me. I¡¯m sure I¡¯ll end up leading this group anyway.¡±


    The room fell silent as his words hung in the air, the arrogance behind them impossible to miss.


    Kassandra and the rest of the group turned their attention to Lucian. Some looked wide-eyed in surprise, while others appeared thoroughly annoyed by his bold proclamation of leadership. While the irritated ones silently cursed him in their minds, one of the women broke the silence with a question.


    ¡°Abelheart? As in one of the Abelhearts?¡±


    Lucian smirked, puffing up with even more pride than before. ¡°Hmph, it seems my family name precedes me. Perhaps you¡¯re from the Sacred Kingdom, like me?¡±


    His tone was dripping with arrogance, and it was clear he was immensely proud of his family name.


    Before the conversation could shift, the crazy-eyed man spoke up. ¡°Is this so-called Abelheart family even that impressive?¡±


    Lucian¡¯s face contorted with fury, a vein visibly pulsing on his forehead. ¡°You insolent rat! Who do you think you are, insulting my family like that?¡±


    The man laughed, clearly enjoying Lucian¡¯s reaction. ¡°Haha, you spoiled little pomeranian. The name¡¯s Ajax Fallcrest,¡± he said, grinning ear to ear.


    ¡°You... you...¡± Lucian stammered, his face turning bright red as he began yelling a stream of curses at Ajax.


    Before their childish argument could escalate, the late awakener stepped forward and placed himself between the two. ¡°This is completely unnecessary. Calm down, both of you,¡± he said, his tone firm but measured.


    Lucian and Ajax both glared at him, irritated by the interruption. Lucian was clearly annoyed at being told what to do, while Ajax looked disappointed that his fun had been cut short.


    Before they could start yelling at him, the man introduced himself. ¡°My name is Karis Zaker. I¡¯m 31 years old and from the Lokfran Kingdom,¡± he said evenly.


    Karis then raised a hand, stopping them before they could respond. ¡°Let everyone introduce themselves first. Then, if you must, you can go back to fighting like children.¡±


    Grumbling, both Ajax and Lucian muttered, ¡°Fine.¡±


    Karis turned to one of the women leaning against the wall, her expression indifferent. ¡°Why don¡¯t you go next,¡± he said.


    She straightened slightly before speaking. ¡°My name is Asna Highcastle. I¡¯m 18 years old, from the Highcastle Kingdom,¡± she said quickly and with little emotion.


    ¡°Oh, The fallen princess of the Highcastle Kingdom?¡± asked another woman, her voice dripping with curiosity.


    Asna¡¯s cold glare was her only reply.


    ¡°Oh my, I apologize. Perhaps I was inconsiderate,¡± the other woman said, though her tone was completely devoid of actual remorse. It was clear she didn¡¯t care in the slightest.


    Karis gestured toward her. ¡°Your turn, then.¡±


    She stood from her seat and introduced herself with a nonchalant smile. ¡°I¡¯m Nadia Spelfara, and I¡¯m 20 years old.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you both, Asna and Nadia,¡± Karis said politely. He looked around. ¡°Alright, who¡¯s next?¡±


    Finally, Kassandra spoke up. ¡°Nice to meet all of you. My name is Kassandra Ulysses. I¡¯m 21 years old and from the Nessus Kingdom,¡± she said with a touch of etiquette.


    Karis nodded. ¡°Nice to meet you as well, Kassandra.¡±


    He then turned to the last man, who had remained silent the entire time. ¡°And finally, you,¡± Karis said.


    The man glanced around the room before answering simply, ¡°Orn Vodd.¡±


    Karis nodded, satisfied. ¡°Good. Now that everyone knows each other...¡± He turned back to Lucian and Ajax with a pointed look. ¡°You two are free to continue your childish fighting.¡±


    The two glanced at each other, muttering in unison, ¡°It¡¯s not worth it.¡±

 Chapter 6: First Day at the Primordial Tower

    After everyone chose their rooms, Kassandra lay on the bed in hers, exhausted from the long and tiring day. Before she knew it, she drifted off to sleep.


    To her surprise, she found herself back in her mind space. The infinite void stretched endlessly before her, and standing amidst it was her origin, the broken source resting beside him. Kassandra approached cautiously.


    ¡°I¡¯m back,¡± she said softly.


    The entity turned his piercing green eyes toward her and gave a single nod.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Kassandra asked, ¡°What am I supposed to do now?¡±


    ¡°The first step is complete. You¡¯ve seen Catharsis. Now, it¡¯s time for the second step: experience Agony. Only then will you unlock the second fragment,¡± the origin explained, his gaze fixed on the endless nothingness.


    ¡°Okay, but... how?¡± Kassandra asked, her confusion evident.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± he admitted. ¡°You¡¯ll have to figure that out for yourself. When I obtained my source, everything was already there. But you don¡¯t have my source¡ªyou¡¯re borrowing it. Because of that, unlocking more of my power will require fulfilling certain conditions, likely connected to me as well. For now, live your life. When the time comes, you¡¯ll know.¡±


    His response only deepened Kassandra¡¯s confusion. ¡°Alright... so, does this mean I¡¯ll have to come here every night?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± he replied, his voice calm. ¡°But you can enter this space whenever you fall asleep.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± she said with a hint of relief.


    With that, Kassandra¡¯s consciousness faded from the void, leaving the origin alone. He watched the spot where she had disappeared and muttered, ¡°Endure,¡± before turning his gaze back to the infinite expanse, his eyes heavy with memories.


    ***


    Sunlight streamed through the window, landing on Kassandra¡¯s face and making her eyelashes flutter. Slowly, she opened her eyes, her mind heavy with thoughts. She rose from the bed and walked to her luggage, which she had yet to unpack. Pulling out some simpler clothes than the dress she had worn the day before, she laid them on the bed before heading to the bathroom.


    Inside, she found a bucket filled with water. She dipped her hands into the cool liquid and splashed it onto her face, then looked into the mirror.


    Her reflection stared back at her with lifeless eyes, eyes that betrayed the cracks in her soul. She forced a smile, but it felt hollow. The emptiness in her gaze reflected the toll her awakening had taken. On the surface, she seemed fine, but inside, she was fractured.


    As if responding to her emotions, her eyes suddenly glowed green, a faint manifestation of her Catharsis fragment. Startled, Kassandra watched her reflection. Her brows furrowed, and her mouth curved into a frown. Overcome with frustration, she punched the mirror, cracking it.


    Breathing heavily, she stared at the broken shards for a moment before her face returned to its neutral expression. With one final glance at the shattered mirror, she left the bathroom, dressed quickly, and stepped out into the hallway.


    The door to the room next to hers opened, and Karis stepped out. Noticing her, he nodded.


    ¡°Good morning,¡± Kassandra greeted as she approached him.


    ¡°Good morning to you too,¡± Karis replied with his gruff voice.


    The two walked downstairs together, exchanging small talk. When they reached the main room, they found Lucian and Asna already seated, sipping tea. Asna glanced briefly in their direction before returning to her drink, while Lucian didn¡¯t even acknowledge them.


    Spotting the tea, Kassandra asked Karis, ¡°Do you want something to drink? I¡¯m going to grab some tea.¡±


    ¡°Just water, thanks,¡± he replied, settling onto one of the couches.


    Kassandra headed to the kitchen and returned a few minutes later with a cup of tea for herself and a glass of water for Karis.


    ¡°Here you go,¡± she said, handing him the water.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± he replied.


    She sat down beside him, and the room fell into an awkward silence, broken only by the sound of tea being sipped.


    That silence didn¡¯t last long. Moments later, loud footsteps approached from the other side of the door. It swung open to reveal Ajax, his hair messy and his clothes wrinkled, as if he had just rolled out of bed.


    ¡°Good morning, everyone! Spoiled Pomeranian, Grump-face, Emerald-eyes, and Silver-hair!¡± Ajax announced loudly, grinning as he sauntered into the room.


    Lucian¡¯s eye twitched at the nickname, and a vein pulsed on his forehead. The others remained unfazed.


    ¡°Good morning to you too, Ajax,¡± Kassandra greeted politely. Karis offered a brief nod in acknowledgment.


    Ajax plopped down on a couch beside Asna, spreading out comfortably. Meanwhile, Lucian was visibly trying to maintain his composure, though his anger simmered just below the surface.


    Minutes later, Nadia entered the room. Orn was the only one still missing. While Nadia and Ajax exchanged casual conversation, their handler, Anach, walked into the room.


    ¡°Today marks your first official day as Seekers of the Primordial Tower,¡± Anach announced without preamble. ¡°I¡¯ll explain what your duties will be during your first year here.¡±If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    He paused, scanning the room. ¡°But before we begin, can someone go get Orn?¡±


    No one volunteered.


    With a sigh, Anach pointed at Lucian. ¡°Lucian, go bring Orn here.¡±


    Lucian scowled but complied, muttering under his breath as he left the room.


    ***


    Lucian didn¡¯t bother knocking and walked straight into Orn¡¯s room. What he saw stopped him in his tracks. The room was in complete disarray¡ªfurniture overturned, cracks in the walls¡ªand Orn was sitting on the floor with his back to the bed, seemingly asleep.


    ¡°Hey, wake up!¡± Lucian called, shaking Orn by the shoulder.


    Suddenly, Lucian backed away as if sensing something was going to happen, then Orn¡¯s eyes shot open, and in a flash, his hand was around Lucian¡¯s neck, who was unable to back away in time.


    Gasping, Lucian struggled, his face turning red. But as Orn¡¯s awareness returned, his grip loosened.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry,¡± Orn said quickly, releasing Lucian.


    Lucian fell to his knees, gasping for air. After a moment, he stood and glared at Orn.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    ¡°I already said I¡¯m sorry,¡± Orn replied flatly. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Anach wants you downstairs,¡± Lucian said with a frown, clearly still annoyed.


    The two headed back to the main room together.


    When Orn and Lucian walked into the room, all eyes turned toward them. Ajax smirked and quipped, ¡°Here he is, Mr. Sleepy.¡±


    Orn, unbothered, ignored the comment entirely, acting as if Ajax hadn¡¯t spoken.


    ¡°Now that everyone is here,¡± Anach began, pausing briefly to ensure he had everyone¡¯s attention, ¡°let me make something clear. I am not your teacher, and this is not a school. No one here will dictate how you should use your powers¡ªwhether for saving lives or taking them. What you¡¯ll do here is pursue your own path to understanding the Age of Origin.


    ¡°For the first year, however, things are different. You are not yet ready to go out into the world as successors. This first year is the only structured period you¡¯ll have, and I¡¯m here to guide you through it. During this time, you¡¯ll learn how to fight with a weapon of your choice, as well as study general knowledge about successors and origins.¡±


    He paused to let the group absorb his words before continuing.


    ¡°Once you complete this year, you¡¯ll officially become Seekers¡ªthose who seek knowledge of the past, particularly the Age of Origin. Outside the Primordial Tower, Seekers are ranked into four tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Crystal.


    Bronze-ranked(Single-Fragment) Seekers have passed their first year and have one fragment awakened.


    Silver-ranked(Double-Fragment) Seekers have awakened their second fragment.


    Gold-ranked(Triple-Fragment) Seekers have reached their third fragment.


    Crystal-ranked(Quadruple-Fragment) Seekers are the rare few who have awakened all fragments.¡±


    Anach stopped again, scanning the room to gauge their reactions before switching topics.


    ¡°Now that you understand the rankings, let¡¯s move on to what you¡¯ll be doing this year. You¡¯ll start by choosing a department. In the Chaotic faction, there are two: Fighter and Scholar.


    The Fighter department focuses on physical skills¡ªweapon techniques, war strategies, and combat training.


    The Scholar department focuses on research¡ªhistory, politics, crafts, and nobility.¡±


    Anach glanced around the room. ¡°In the first year, however, you¡¯ll be doing a mix of both departments. You¡¯ll only officially choose your department once you¡¯ve completed the year and become a Seeker. For now, your task is to get dressed and prepare to choose your weapon.¡±


    Ajax stretched lazily as he stood from the couch, yawning dramatically. ¡°Finally,¡± he muttered before heading to his room. Orn followed him.


    As they walked, Ajax glanced sideways at Orn and grinned. ¡°Yo, Sleepy, what did you do to the Pomeranian?¡±


    Orn frowned at him in confusion before realizing who Ajax was referring to. ¡°Nothing,¡± he said flatly.


    Ajax smirked knowingly. ¡°If you say so,¡± he replied, looking straight ahead. Neither spoke again until they reached their rooms.


    ***


    Once everyone was ready, they gathered back downstairs.


    ¡°Follow me,¡± Anach instructed, stepping outside. The group trailed behind him as he led them through the streets of the Chaotic faction¡¯s region.


    They soon arrived at a massive building¡ªfar larger than the one they¡¯d been assigned to. Anach stopped in front of it.


    ¡°This is the Chaotic faction¡¯s training sector,¡± he explained, gesturing toward the structure. ¡°The left section is for fighters, and the right is for scholars.¡±


    They entered and Anach led them to a desk near the entrance, where a woman sat, scribbling notes. She looked up as they approached and broke into a wide grin.


    ¡°Good to see you, Anach,¡± she said, her tone overly enthusiastic.


    ¡°You too, Senna. How¡¯s the work here been?¡± he replied.


    ¡°Oh, you know... same old, same old,¡± Senna said with a dramatic sigh. Her eyes flicked to the group behind him, and her curiosity sparked. ¡°So, who are these lovely people?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re new members,¡± Anach answered. ¡°I was assigned as their handler for this season.¡±


    ¡°Ah, right. It¡¯s about that time again,¡± Senna said with a knowing nod. ¡°You¡¯re here to show them around the training sector, right? Go on, then. If you need anything, you know where to find me¡ªthough I doubt you¡¯ll need help.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Senna,¡± Anach said with a wave before turning back to the group. ¡°Come on.¡±


    The seven recruits followed Anach deeper into the training sector


    Their first stop was the Fighter section, which featured both outdoor and indoor training grounds. Anach led the group to one of the private indoor rooms. The space was simple yet functional, with weapons of all kinds lining the walls¡ªspears, daggers, bows, gauntlets, and more. The room was spacious enough for the group to move around comfortably.


    ¡°Now, you will choose a weapon,¡± Anach began, his tone firm but instructive. ¡°Take your time¡ªthis is an important decision. Weapons are a vital part of a Seeker¡¯s journey. Most successors¡¯ fragments don¡¯t grant offensive abilities; their powers are usually auxiliary. Your weapon will often be your primary means of defense and attack.¡±


    Kassandra and the others surveyed the room, taking in the array of options before stepping forward to examine and test the weapons.


    The first weapon Kassandra tried was a short sword¡ª80 centimeters in length, with a 20-centimeter handle and a double-edged blade. It was a simple, functional weapon. She swung it experimentally¡ªleft to right, right to left, diagonally¡ªbut her expression remained unsatisfied. She set it down and moved on.


    Next, she picked up a rapier. Its thin blade was designed for precision and piercing. She thrust it forward once, twice, thrice, but quickly decided it wasn¡¯t for her either.


    Weapon after weapon passed through her hands. Swords, spears¡ªshe even tested a bow¡ªbut nothing felt quite right. Finally, after what felt like endless trial and error, she found something that intrigued her: a slender glaive.


    The glaive featured a long, thin hilt with a sharp blade shaped like a curved dagger. It was approximately 200 centimeters in total length, with the blade measuring 40 centimeters. Kassandra swung it a few times, testing its weight and balance. A small smile tugged at her lips¡ªthis one felt different.


    When Kassandra returned to Anach, she noticed that a few others had already finished selecting their weapons. Karis carried an enormous one-sided axe, its sheer size making it seem almost impractical for anyone less physically imposing. Lucian had chosen a small, elegant rapier that matched his refined demeanor. Asna swung a massive claymore with surprising ease, its weight seemingly no obstacle for her.


    The rest of the group trickled in over the next 10 to 15 minutes, each carrying their chosen weapon.


    ¡°Good,¡± Anach said, his sharp gaze scanning the group. ¡°Everyone has a weapon. This will be your partner for the first year, so treat it with care. Try not to lose it,¡± he warned.


    Before anyone could relax, Anach¡¯s tone shifted, and his next announcement shocked several of them.


    ¡°Now, everyone will spar against me,¡± he declared.


    A ripple of surprise passed through the group.

 Chapter 7: Sparring

    ¡°Ajax, you¡¯re up first,¡± Anach said, gesturing for him to step forward.


    Ajax grinned, his manic smile stretching wider as he stepped into the sparring area. His weapon of choice was a long and heavy spear, its blade gleaming under the dim light. Lifting the spear so its tip pointed directly at Anach, he adopted a focused stance, the intensity in his gaze matching his wild grin.


    ¡°Come at me!¡± Anach commanded.


    Ajax didn¡¯t hesitate. He surged forward, closing the distance in a few quick steps, and thrust the spear with all his strength. However, Anach casually sidestepped the attack, his movements smooth and effortless.


    Ajax quickly recovered, spinning the spear for another strike. Ajax¡¯s spear grazed air, the force of his strike kicking up a cloud of dust from the ground. His momentum carried him forward, but he twisted on his heel. Without missing a beat, he whipped the spear around in a wide arc, the blade hissing through the air like a serpent''s strike.


    Anach ducked under the swing, his body moving with a liquid grace that defied the ferocity of Ajax¡¯s assault. He surged forward, closing the distance, and lashed out with a low kick aimed at Ajax¡¯s knee. The impact jarred Ajax¡¯s stance, forcing him to stagger back a step, but his grip on the spear remained firm.


    Ajax¡¯s grin widened, his teeth bared like a beast tasting blood. He lunged again, feinting a thrust before suddenly twisting the shaft of the spear to sweep at Anach¡¯s legs. The move was savage and unpredictable, but Anach leapt into the air.


    As Anach landed, Ajax drove the spear forward with brutal force. The weapon¡¯s tip sliced through the air, narrowly missing Anach¡¯s side as he twisted his body at an impossible angle. The spear embedded into the wooden floor, and Ajax used the embedded weapon as leverage to propel himself into a spinning kick aimed at Anach¡¯s ribs.


    This time, Anach couldn¡¯t dodge completely. The kick connected with a dull thud, forcing a grunt from his lips as he stumbled back. Ajax wasted no time. He yanked the spear from the ground, the blade glinting as he charged, his movements wild yet calculated, like a predator cornering its prey.


    Anach recovered quickly, his feet skimming the ground as he retreated, circling Ajax with a predatory calm that contrasted starkly with the latter¡¯s unrestrained ferocity. Ajax jabbed with the spear, each thrust faster and more relentless than the last. The blade became a blur, slicing through the air with deadly intent, but Anach¡¯s movements remained elusive. He weaved through the onslaught, his body a shadow dancing at the edge of Ajax¡¯s reach.


    With a sudden burst of speed, Anach lunged forward, slipping inside the range of the spear. His hand shot out, gripping the weapon¡¯s shaft near its midpoint. Ajax snarled and twisted the spear, trying to wrench it free, but Anach held firm. Then with a forceful pull, Anach disarmed Ajax and threw the spear to the side.


    ¡°Next! Asna,¡± Anach called out, his tone unwavering as he returned to his starting position. His sharp command jolted the usually stoic, silver-haired woman out of her stupor.


    Asna stepped forward with calm determination, her expression as neutral as ever. Behind her, Ajax grumbled under his breath as he rejoined the group, after retrieving his spear.


    Asna spread her legs into a steady stance, gripping the hilt of her claymore with both hands. With a quick dash, she closed the distance between herself and Anach, swinging the massive blade in a wide arc.


    Once again, Anach sidestepped the attack with fluid grace. But unlike Ajax, Asna anticipated the dodge. The moment her swing missed, she retreated a step and reset her stance, her claymore poised for the next move.


    She lunged forward, her blade slicing through the air with a low hum. Anach, ever precise, stepped aside, letting the weapon carve a shallow groove into the ground beside him. Before he could counter, Asna spun with the momentum, lifting her claymore in a wide, upward arc. The blade¡¯s edge forced Anach to leap backward to avoid its reach.


    Asna pressed her attack relentlessly. Her claymore whistled as it cut through the air in diagonal strikes, horizontal sweeps, and finally a powerful overhead swing. Anach ducked under the final blow.


    Realizing her initial approach wasn¡¯t working, Asna shifted her strategy. She dropped into a low stance, her breathing steady and measured, her sharp eyes locked onto Anach.


    Anach¡¯s lips curled into a small smile, recognizing the shift in her approach.


    Asna surged forward again, this time aiming low. Her claymore swept toward Anach¡¯s legs in a wide arc, forcing him to leap over the blade. Midair, she adjusted her grip and thrust the blade upward toward his chest. Anach twisted in midair, narrowly evading the strike as the tip of the claymore grazed his side.


    The moment his feet touched the ground, Anach retaliated. He dashed forward in a blur, closing the gap between them almost instantly. Asna raised her claymore just in time to block his strike. The clash of steel rang out, sparks flying from the impact.


    Anach¡¯s dagger moved with surgical precision, each strike swift and unrelenting. Asna was forced to retreat step by step under the weight of his assault. Though she fought valiantly, her defense eventually faltered, and Anach¡¯s dagger found its place at her neck, just as it had with Ajax.


    ¡°Good. Very good,¡± Anach said, stepping back and lowering his weapon. His voice carried a rare note of approval. ¡°You¡¯re skilled in sword fighting. There¡¯s no mistaking it¡ªyou¡¯ve been trained before.¡±


    Asna, her breathing steady despite the intensity of the fight, returned to her calm demeanor. She nodded briefly and stepped away, rejoining the group, who had been silently observing the match.


    The next person Anach called was Karis. The towering fighter stepped forward with a determined stride, his expression fierce and unyielding. From his demeanor, it was clear he was no stranger to battle. Resting his massive axe on his shoulder, he readied himself before charging at Anach.


    Karis rushed forward, his heavy axe slicing through the air with a deep, menacing hum. Anach sidestepped the initial attack with ease, but Karis adjusted swiftly. Using the momentum, he twisted his body and swung the axe in a devastating arc. Anach ducked low, the blade narrowly missing him as it whistled past.


    Without hesitation, Karis gripped the axe with both hands and brought it down in a crushing vertical strike. Anach rolled aside, and the weapon slammed into the ground with a resounding thud. Karis yanked the axe free, spinning it in a wide, defensive arc to keep Anach at a distance.


    Anach darted in, aiming a precise kick at Karis¡¯s side, but Karis blocked it deftly with the haft of his axe, shoving Anach back. Advancing with measured steps, Karis unleashed a brutal diagonal slash. Anach leaped backward, the axe missing by mere inches, and countered with a sweeping leg kick.


    Karis staggered briefly but recovered almost instantly, his grip on the axe tightening. His strikes came faster and harder, each one more forceful than the last. Anach weaved through the barrage, his movements fluid and deliberate, a study in calculated precision.


    To Anach¡¯s surprise, something shifted in Karis. His bright blue irises expanded until they covered his entire eyes and began to glow faintly. His hair stiffened and bristled, resembling sharp needles. Recognizing the change, Anach¡¯s expression grew serious. Without hesitation, he dashed forward, intending to end the fight quickly.


    What happened next caught everyone off guard. Karis moved with unexpected speed, retreating a few paces before swinging his axe in a wide arc. The blade cleaved through the air with a sharp whoosh as Karis released the handle, sending the axe hurtling toward Anach.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Anach ducked just in time, the axe passing over him. But Karis wasn¡¯t far behind. Using the momentary distraction, he closed the gap and threw a powerful punch.


    Suddenly, Anach vanished. In the blink of an eye, he reappeared behind Karis, his dagger poised at the fighter¡¯s neck.


    Karis froze, his glowing eyes dimming and his hair returning to normal. Slowly, he turned his head to look at Anach.


    ¡°You did well,¡± Anach said, his tone calm yet firm. ¡°We¡¯ll discuss this more later.¡± He stepped back, lowering his dagger. ¡°Now, go pick up your axe and return to the others.¡±


    As Karis moved to retrieve his axe, Anach called out, ¡°Kassandra, you¡¯re up next.¡±


    Karis walked back to the group, his steps deliberate as he hefted the axe onto his shoulder. The others looked at him with a mix of curiosity and unease, their gazes lingering on him as though they were trying to decipher what they had just witnessed.


    Kassandra stepped into position, her glaive in hand. Standing across from Anach, a mixture of nervousness and determination showed on her face. She had never fought before, but she knew this was the beginning of her journey as a Seeker¡ªa moment she could not back down from.


    Unsure of what stance to take, Kassandra placed one foot behind the other and pointed the glaive¡¯s tip forward, mimicking what she¡¯d seen others do. She locked eyes with Anach, steeling herself, then dashed toward him.


    Her first swing came in a wide, sweeping arc¡ªdriven more by instinct than skill. The blade of the glaive sliced through the air, aimed at Anach¡¯s shoulder. With practiced ease, Anach twisted his wrist and raised his dagger to meet the strike. Steel collided with steel, sending a burst of sparks flying. The impact jolted Kassandra¡¯s arms, forcing her to take a half-step back to steady herself.


    Anach countered immediately, pivoting smoothly on his back foot and lunging forward with a quick thrust. Kassandra reacted on instinct, slamming the haft of her glaive against his blade in a desperate parry. The vibration reverberated through her grip, and she stumbled sideways, struggling to maintain her balance.


    Anach pressed his advantage, his strikes swift and unrelenting, each one testing the limits of her untrained reflexes. The clash of metal echoed in the room as Kassandra tried to fend him off, but his movements were precise and calculated.


    Strike after strike, Anach maintained control of the spar. Kassandra¡¯s defense faltered under the relentless assault. Before she could react, Anach disarmed her with a deft maneuver, sending the glaive flying from her hands. It clattered onto the wooden floor with a metallic ring, skidding to a stop several feet away.


    ¡°You have potential, but you¡¯ll need to train hard if you want to wield a glaive effectively,¡± Anach said, his tone firm but not unkind. He gestured for the next person to step forward.


    Kassandra retrieved her glaive from the ground, her face a mix of frustration and resolve. As she rejoined the group, her gaze shifted to the next person stepping into the sparring spot¡ªLucian, who stood with an air of confidence, his rapier gleaming in his hand.


    Lucian assumed a textbook stance: his back straight, the rapier¡¯s tip held perfectly steady, his left hand poised behind his back, and his feet forming a precise L shape.


    With a sharp inhale, Lucian sprang into action. His rapier darted forward like a serpent, slicing through the air in a precise thrust aimed at Anach¡¯s chest. Anach shifted his weight to his back foot, twisting his body just enough for the blade to whistle harmlessly past him. Before Lucian could pull back, Anach pivoted, swinging his dagger in a low, sweeping arc toward Lucian¡¯s legs.


    Lucian reacted instantly, hopping backward with agility, his feet light on the ground. The steel tip of Anach¡¯s weapon missed his ankles by mere inches. Without missing a beat, Lucian flicked his rapier upward in a sharp riposte, the blade aimed at Anach¡¯s shoulder. Anach stepped aside effortlessly, the strike glancing past him.


    Lucian pressed his attack, advancing with a relentless flurry of thrusts and slashes. Each movement was deliberate and calculated, his posture perfectly balanced and poised. The rapier¡¯s thin blade moved with lightning speed, darting toward Anach¡¯s torso, neck, and arms in rapid succession.


    Anach met each strike with practiced precision, his movements fluid and composed. His blade parried the incoming attacks with sharp, ringing clangs, his economy of motion a stark contrast to Lucian¡¯s energetic assault.


    Suddenly, Anach shifted gears. He countered with a swift lunge, his blade aimed directly at Lucian¡¯s midsection. Lucian spun to his left, narrowly avoiding the thrust, and immediately retaliated with a quick slash aimed at Anach¡¯s exposed flank.


    Anach twisted his torso at the last moment, his dagger rising just in time to deflect the strike with a metallic clang. Before Lucian could recover his stance, Anach closed the distance in a blur, his dagger flashing upward to rest lightly against Lucian¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Impressive footwork,¡± Anach said, his voice calm but firm. ¡°But you need to work on recovering faster after an attack.¡±


    Lucian¡¯s expression faltered briefly, but he quickly composed himself, nodding in acknowledgment. Anach stepped back, lowering his weapon and gesturing for Lucian to rejoin the group.


    ¡°Nadia, you¡¯re up next,¡± Anach said, his eyes landing on her.


    However, Nadia had other plans. Her expression remained unreadable, the same polite but distant smile she¡¯d worn since the beginning. ¡°I won¡¯t be sparring. Nor will I be picking a weapon,¡± she announced calmly.


    Anach regarded her for a brief moment but didn¡¯t press the issue. ¡°Fine,¡± he said simply, before turning to Orn. ¡°Orn, you¡¯re up next.¡±


    Without a word, Orn stepped forward, his heavy gauntlets glinting faintly in the light. He moved to the sparring area and stood opposite Anach, his posture relaxed, arms resting at his sides. He didn¡¯t take any stance, instead simply staring at Anach with an impassive expression.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to attack?¡± Anach asked, his tone curious. Orn remained silent, his gaze unwavering. Anach shrugged and muttered, ¡°Suit yourself.¡±


    In an instant, Anach surged forward like a coiled spring, his dagger slicing upward in a swift, precise arc aimed at Orn¡¯s ribs. Orn didn¡¯t flinch. He waited until the last possible second before shifting his body slightly to the side. The dagger scraped against the edge of his gauntlet with a faint metallic hiss.


    Before Anach could follow up, Orn¡¯s right fist shot forward¡ªa straight jab aimed directly at Anach¡¯s head. The force and speed behind the strike forced Anach to duck and roll to the side, narrowly avoiding the crushing blow. Orn¡¯s fist collided with the ground, leaving a shallow dent where Anach had been.


    Anach rose quickly, circling Orn with measured steps. His dagger feinted left before slicing right in a deceptive maneuver. Orn lifted his left arm, the reinforced steel of his gauntlet deflecting the blade with a sharp clang. Using the momentum, Orn twisted his body and swung his right arm in a wide hook aimed at Anach¡¯s midsection.


    The punch came with immense power, but Anach anticipated the move. He stepped back just out of range, the gust of wind from Orn¡¯s swing ruffling his clothing. Wasting no time, Anach lunged forward with a series of rapid thrusts aimed at Orn¡¯s torso. Orn batted the strikes aside with his gauntlets, but one slipped through his defenses.


    In a blink, Anach appeared behind Orn, his dagger pressed lightly against the man¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Good. You all did well,¡± Anach said, his voice steady as he lowered the dagger from Orn¡¯s neck. ¡°Orn, return to the group. It¡¯s time to discuss everyone¡¯s strengths and weaknesses.¡±


    Orn nodded silently, retrieving his gauntlets before rejoining the group.


    Anach turned to address the entire group, his gaze steady. ¡°You all have your strengths and weaknesses. Let¡¯s go over them.¡±


    ¡°Ajax,¡± he began, looking at the spear wielder. ¡°Your fighting style is highly aggressive, which suits your energy, but it leaves you vulnerable if your opponent gets too close. The spear is a weapon best used at a distance and with your current fighting style, it¡¯s far too easy for someone to close in on you. I¡¯m not here to give advice on how to fight, only to point out what needs improvement.¡±


    He glanced at the group as a whole and added, ¡°This applies to all of you, not just Ajax. Take what I say and think about how to improve.¡±


    ¡°Asna,¡± he continued, turning to the silver-haired woman. ¡°Your instincts are sharp, and it¡¯s clear you¡¯ve been trained. Your skills are well-honed, likely through experience in sparring or battle. I don¡¯t have much to critique¡ªyou know what you¡¯re doing.¡±


    Next, he looked at Karis.


    ¡°Karis, your experience in life-and-death combat is evident in your intent. It¡¯s written all over your movements. Your control over the axe is remarkable, and your creativity¡ªlike throwing it mid-battle¡ªis commendable. Truthfully, I wouldn¡¯t have defeated you without exerting more power.¡± His tone grew more serious. ¡°We¡¯ll discuss something else about your performance later today.¡±


    His gaze shifted to Kassandra.


    ¡°Kassandra, you¡¯re a novice. If I¡¯m not mistaken, this was your first fight, yes? Your inexperience shows, but that¡¯s not a bad thing¡ªit means you have room to grow. Choosing a glaive is an unusual decision for a beginner, but it suits you. You¡¯ll need training to wield it properly, but the potential is there.¡±


    Anach¡¯s attention then turned to Lucian.


    ¡°Lucian, your style is swift and agile, as is expected of a rapier user. Your stance and reflexes were excellent. Overall, your performance was solid.¡±


    Finally, his eyes landed on Nadia.


    ¡°Nadia, you chose not to spar or select a weapon, and I won¡¯t force you to do either. However, every Seeker carries a weapon¡ªit¡¯s a vital tool in your journey. Think about that.¡±


    Turning to Orn, Anach finished, ¡°Orn, your defensive style is strong, but you were overly cautious. Sometimes, the best defense is a strong offense, yes. However, balance the offence and defence, and you¡¯ll see improvement.¡±


    Anach straightened, signaling the end of his review. ¡°What¡¯s next is a trip to the Scholar section. It¡¯s a very different environment compared to this one, so be prepared for that.¡±


    With that, Anach exited the room. The seven newcomers followed behind him, their weapons in hand.