Grace possessed an SS-level talent known as the Accumulator. This ability allowed her to absorb and store vast amounts of energy, enabling explosive power during battles. Meanwhile, Joy had an S-level talent called the Blood King. This ability granted him control over blood, both his own and his opponents', making him a formidable adversary.
The assistant stopped in front of a large door made of gleaming metal, adorned with the Alliance's emblem etched into its surface—a symbol of strength and majesty. The door appeared solid, yet light radiated from its edges. Inside, the muffled hum of conversations hinted that the room was already packed.
"We've arrived. Please go in," the woman said, her voice calm but firm.
Grace and Joy exchanged glances before bowing slightly toward the woman.
"Thank you, ma'am," they said in unison. Taking a deep breath to compose themselves, they pushed open the massive door and stepped inside, deliberately keeping their steps casual despite the tension they felt.
The woman remained in place for a moment, observing the large door as it closed behind them. "Good luck," she murmured softly, her eyes filled with hope. She raised her hand briefly, grasping at the air as if offering one final gesture of support for them.
Shortly after, she lowered her gaze and opened her status panel. A holographic interface appeared before her, and her fingers deftly searched for something.
[System Chat Messages: Private]
- (Kunti) Reporting to Master Lein, Miss Grace and Mr. Joy have entered the room.
The message was sent in a matter of seconds. Not even three seconds later, the faint yet distinct sound of a portal crackling in the air echoed softly. The woman, initially focused on the panel in her hand, immediately lifted her head. Standing before her now was a young man in a neatly tailored blue robe. His gaze was calm, yet it carried a depth that was hard to describe. A faint smile graced his face, balancing the powerful aura of authority that surrounded him. It wasn't an aura forced upon others, but one that arose naturally from his presence—a blend of strength and sincerity.
"Thank you," Lein said in a soft yet commanding tone. His eyes reflected genuine gratitude as he gave her a slight nod before turning away. His steps were light, but each carried an unshakable confidence, leaving the woman to simply watch him with deep respect.
The woman offered a small smile and bowed her head slightly in response. At first, she often felt awkward receiving words of gratitude from Lein. Not because she didn't appreciate it, but because, in her view, a leader like Lein didn't need to be so kind. Over time, however, she had learned that rejecting his gratitude would only be disregarded.
Eventually, she chose to accept his thanks wholeheartedly, feeling fortunate to work under a leader like him—a leader known for his kindness toward subordinates, far different from the image of most powerful leaders who often cared only for themselves.
"Well, I've gained two new pawns," Lein murmured as he gazed at the inauguration door ahead. His expression softened slightly, as if smiling to himself, before he stepped into the room.
Inside the hall, the sound of applause roared, echoing endlessly. Grace and Joy stood in the center of the grand stage, waving to the audience that filled the main hall. Spotlights illuminated them, casting elegant shadows on the floor. In the front row, their families could be seen waving enthusiastically.
"Brother Joy… you're amazing!" a young boy shouted with overflowing excitement, jumping up and down as he waved his hand toward Joy. Behind him, several other family members joined in, cheering continuously. Pride was evident on their faces.
On the other side, Grace's family offered similar support. Some members shouted their congratulations, while others waved energetically. Grace's face, initially tense, gradually softened as she saw them. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, but she held back, not wanting to show too much emotion.
"Mr. Joy and Miss Grace, please proceed to your seats," the moderator's voice echoed, drawing their attention away from the applause and greetings. Grace and Joy exchanged glances, then gave each other a small nod before turning toward the row of seats prepared for them.
The row consisted of 12 seats, all occupied except for two on the left and one in the center. The central seat stood out the most, clearly designated for Lein, who had yet to take his place. Grace and Joy walked toward their seats with steady steps, striving to remain composed even as their hearts raced faster than usual.
As they passed by the seats of the core members, Grace took a moment to greet a few of them. "Hello, Princess Nita," she said with a polite smile.
"Hello, Mr. Bagus," she added as she passed the next seat.
Joy followed suit, offering greetings to each member they passed. The core members returned their salutations with nods or brief smiles, displaying a friendly yet formal demeanor. There was no awkwardness between them; the core members understood that the two youths would soon join them as part of the elite group.
"They're the same age as us," Nita murmured, sitting in one of the seats on the right side of the stage. She turned toward Laras, who sat beside her in an elegant long white gown.
"Yes," Laras replied, her voice soft but filled with curiosity. "I wonder what their talents are that Brother Lein chose them?" Her eyes narrowed slightly, observing Grace and Joy's movements with keen interest. There was a natural sense of curiosity, but also a deep respect for Lein's decision.
"Of course, they must be wielders with S-rank talents," Nita answered with a tone of certainty. Her gaze lifted slightly, as if envisioning the greatness the two youths would showcase in the future.
"Impressive…" Laras nodded slowly, her eyes gleaming with restrained curiosity. "By the way, do you think Brother Lein will come?" she asked as she shifted slightly, turning to look directly at Nita.