Chapter 42: Roomie
Adrian let his mind drift, focusing on the Tech Core.
’Why no quest completion?’ he wondered. ’I passed the trials and secured a spot. Shouldn’t that count?’
The system’s silence was frustrating, but he pushed it aside, centering himself. ’Maybe the coordinator’s address triggers it,’ he thought, grasping for patience.
Minutes ticked by and the hall slowly filled as other fighters trickled in — winners from other units most likely.
After almost an hour had passed, the door swung open once more and a robed woman stepped onto the stage.
Her presence was commanding and her eyes were sharp as they swept over the nineteen knights.
Adrian straightened and his focus was directed onto her.
"Welcome to the Zarion Academy," the woman said. "You nineteen stand here because you fought for it. Through sweat, skill, and grit. You’re knights now, not just hopefuls. But this is no victory lap. The academy is a forge, and you’re the raw iron. We’ll shape you into something extraordinary, or you’ll break under the hammer. Either way, you’ve chosen a path few can walk."
A soft ping interrupted Adrian’s thoughts, the Tech Core’s interface flashing:
[Quest Completed: Secure a Spot in the Zarion Academy]
[New Feature Unlocked: System Factory]