Chapter 34: The Hall of Origin
On their way to the test site, Aldrian marveled at the surroundings, admiring the magnificence of the nature-based imperial palace under the world tree of Evergreen. He was truly amazed by the elves who had created this palace, as it looked so natural and did not disturb the aesthetic of the world tree.
"The elves can control the energy of the forest, they can manipulate the roots of trees and shape the forest as they wish. The spirit of the world tree must have truly blessed this place for the elves to let them build such a structure under her." he thought.
"Young master, are you really alright?" Eleine's voice suddenly came through a voice transmission.
"Why wouldn't I be? I don't care about their blabbering, so you don't have to worry." Aldrian smiled and assured her.
Eleine felt relieved when she heard that. Earlier, when Marquess Andra spoke as if Aldrian was a fraud and suggested the test in the Forest of Despair, she felt rage but couldn't express it for obvious reasons—they were in the Ivory Empire and on their turf. It still irritated her even now, even after her young master had resolved the issue himself. However, she was still worried about the Forest of Despair, knowing its fame and history. But seeing his nonchalant expression, she could only sigh and support Aldrian's decision, hoping for his safe return as they continued to walk in silence.
Inside the imperial palace complex, there was a large room with a high platform and a circular formation 50 meters in diameter, surrounded by eight stone pillars. This place was primarily used by the imperial family to assess the talent of its members, but it could also serve as a testing platform. Aldrian stood in front of the formation, examining it and its intricate designs. The platform, with stone pillars arranged in a circle like Stonehenge, created a formation resembling an altar.
"We named this place The Hall of Origin because it is used to check our origin, the soul itself, this place was built by my predecessor who comprehend karma laws and formation. The formation here is one of the most complex, as it can scan one's soul, innate talent, and potential for future cultivation simultaneously. It also provides an assessment based on all those factors combined. Do you see the stone pillars? Later, letters will appear to show your result." Elthar explained to Aldrian, who was standing beside him.
"We then created a downgraded version, altered it slightly, and made it smaller for portability. That device has helped us catch criminals and devils for years, it's called the Orb of Origin that you knew. For now, you can stand in the middle of the formation to start." Aldrian nodded in understanding before walking into the formation.
The noble elves who had followed them to watch were intensely focused on Aldrian, as this was a moment of truth. Was it possible that someone at his supposed initial years of cultivation could reach such a high stage? Did he really possess a talent so tremendous that he could battle enemies many realms above him? Aldrian stood at the center of the formation and closed his eyes.