Chapter 132: Whispers of Strength
As the sun set on the horizon, disappointed once again in humanity, it sank below the world—hoping a better version of it would rise with the next day. In its place, the moon ascended into the sky. A half-moon stood watch, offering the world space to mourn in silence.
Inside one of the dormitory rooms, silver moonlight spilled across the floor. Alex sat against the wall, eyes closed, his expression unreadable.
Suddenly, heavy panting echoed in the quiet room. With a thud, Alex collapsed sideways. His purple eyes snapped open, bloodshot, red veins spreading around the irises. His chest rose and fell in harsh rhythm. Despite the cold night, sweat drenched his body.
From the corner, Hati lifted his head. His eyes shimmered with concern, but he made no sound—only let out a soft coo before resting his head back on the ground.
Frustration bled into Alex’s voice as he muttered, "What am I doing wrong?"
He tried to focus, to think—but the pain in his head throbbed like a war drum, halting all thought. Gritting his teeth, he began channeling wood elemental energy. But before he could finish, exhaustion overtook him, and he drifted into an uneasy sleep on the floor.
In the depths of his slumber, a whisper echoed through his mind:
"Use your will."
Alex’s eyes shot open. He sat up, heart pounding, eyes wide.
"What was that?" he murmured. "Use my will?"
He exhaled, shoulders finally relaxing, and turned his gaze to the window. The first light of dawn was already spilling into the room.