"Speaking of gates, did you hear that the Association's planning to award the Sacred-Rank spirit art to whoever contributes the most? Not just gate clearing either. Research, critical intelligence, anything that meaningfully helps. Whoever racks up the most contribution points across the board takes the prize."
Selene nodded. "Yeah. My brother texted me about it a few hours ago. I was actually meaning to bring it up with you." She glanced at him. "You know you're already in the lead, right? Clearing Rivergate alone put you way ahead of everyone else."
"So Tom mentioned." Moon's mouth curved slightly. "It's a smart system on their part. Keeps all the top talents chasing the same carrot, doing exactly the work the Association needs done. But I'm not complaining. That Sacred-Rank art is exactly what I need, and if clearing gates is the price, I'd be clearing them anyway."
"How is Alaric?" he added. "It's been a while since I've heard anything directly."
