"One who lives in constant fear of suffering is already enduring the very pain they dread."
This was a favorite quote of Uncle Bob, one he often repeated whenever Ryuk began overthinking. In this situation, Ryuk couldn't help but feel the wisdom of those words as an important aid.
He was already starting to overthink his upcoming meeting with the Fallen family, just based on what he had heard about them.
Fear crept in as he wondered whether they would even entertain him.
They were so mighty and beyond his reach—why would they pay attention to him just because of some card he held?
But then he reminded himself that overthinking would not help; it would only deepen his suffering.
With that realization, Ryuk was able to shrug off the burden, deciding instead to keep reading the rest of the book.
The next family listed on the page caught his interest:
The Vampiro Family (Vampires)
A family of cunning strategists and masters of the Blood element, the Vampiro Family wields influence in almost every corner of Grade B.
Unlike the cold cruelty often associated with vampires, the Vampiro Family follows a strict code of loyalty and honor. They have a reputation for aiding outsiders who prove themselves worthy—a trait that makes them key allies to other major families and corporations.
Their territory, the Crimson Dominion, is a land of mystery and bloody power.
"Pretty interesting," Ryuk thought. He had heard of vampires' bad reputation since Grade E, but after how Duke Thalion had treated him, he was starting to have doubts.
Now, with this description, things were beginning to make sense, but Ryuk also noted a few reasons not to trust the information completely.
For one, the book had been given to him by a vampire. The information might as well have been fabricated.
So, he reminded himself not to trust too easily.
He still had no idea why Duke Thalion was being so kind, but he understood one universal truth: people rarely do things without some form of reward.
With that in mind, he skimmed through the descriptions of the other races.
3. The Lycanis Pack (Werewolves)
The Lycanis Pack rules with ferocity and unity. They control the forests and wild territories surrounding Grade B, offering protection in exchange for unwavering loyalty.
Their culture values strength above all, and they often send their young to test themselves in the deadly hunts of the wilderness.
4. The Elunari Dynasty (Elves)
The Elunari Dynasty is a family of High Elves, known for their unparalleled control of elemental magic and unrivaled beauty.
Their territory, the Verdant Spire, is a shimmering realm of towering trees, ethereal lights, and cascading waterfalls.
5. The Forgeborn Clan (Dwarves)
Masters of craftsmanship and runic energy, the Forgeborn Clan wields immense influence through their production of weapons and enchanted artifacts.
Their fortress, Ironhold, is a labyrinth of tunnels and magma-lit halls where the greatest artifacts in Endearth are forged.
6. The Skyrend Alliance (Avian Races)
Comprising Harpies, Rocfolk, and other bird-like races, the Skyrend Alliance rules the skies of Grade B. Their aerial dominance makes them unmatched in long-range combat and reconnaissance.
7. The Onyx Coil (Nagas and Serpentine Races)
A cunning family that thrives in manipulation and deceit, the Onyx Coil is rumored to control Grade B's underground trade and espionage. Their serpentine grace hides their ruthlessness.
8. The Obsidian Tide (Aquatic Races)
Hailing from the aquatic depths surrounding Grade B, the Obsidian Tide controls the city's water supply and naval power. Their ability to thrive both above and below water gives them a significant advantage.
9. The Titanbound Order (Giantkin)
A family of Giantkin who value brute force and honor, the Titanbound Order governs the city's coliseums, where warriors prove their strength in battles that draw spectators from across Endearth.
10. The Shadeborn Collective (Shadow Walkers)
A mysterious family of beings that can traverse the shadows and wield dark Apex energy. Their territory is shrouded in perpetual twilight, where no one ventures without their permission.
"How interesting. Seems like life in Grade B will be anything but boring," Ryuk mused.
But something else nagged at him.
"Still, it seems like humans aren't a major powerhouse," he noted, furrowing his eyebrows.
Then he chuckled to himself.
'Oh right, I'm not human.'
Even though the system had informed him he had nothing to do with the human bloodline, deep in his heart, he still felt connected to them.
A part of him even considered himself human, despite belonging to the despicable Knull race.
"Not being mentioned doesn't mean humans aren't in Grade B. Maybe they're just weaker and not among the top powerhouses," Ryuk reasoned.
Flipping to the next page, his eyes lit up with excitement.
The Academy of Ascendants
Beyond the Ten Families, there exists one power in Grade B that rivals them all: the Academy of Ascendants.
The Academy is a hallowed institution where the most promising cultivators from all races compete and train. It is considered a gateway to greatness, and nearly every ruler, warrior, or influential figure in Grade B has passed through its gates.
The Academy's trials are grueling, and admission is fiercely competitive. Only the most exceptional are admitted, and its students are known to surpass even the elites of the Ten Families.
The Academy is not just a school; it is a fortress of knowledge and power. Its influence stretches across Grade B, and its alumni often become pivotal figures in Endearth's political and military landscape.
"What a coincidence!" Ryuk exclaimed.