As the ritual drew to a quiet close, the glow of the Blessing Crystal finally faded, vanishing like morning mist after a storm. The chamber dimmed, settling back into its natural state.
One by one, the six stirred, their eyes slowly opening.
They looked... different.
Their bodies had matured slightly. A subtle power now buzzed beneath their skin. Their posture shifted unconsciously—stronger, more grounded. And most of all, their eyes now carried clarity.
They had Awakened.
Each of them now stood at the Soldier Rank—the first and most important step for all newly Awakened in the Empire. Their aura signatures, though still raw and untrained, were unmistakably real.
Fenric stepped forward, his voice calm yet commanding.
"You've awakened. That much is clear. Now—tell me. What class did you receive?"
Selene stepped up first. A faint breeze still fluttered the hem of her robes.
"Wind Duelist, Your Highness."
Fenric gave a small nod. "Fitting."
