As the dragon settled back into its slumber, it first scanned the planet for any signs of life beyond the resident creatures. Sensing the faint aura of its master, Vex, as it briefly covered the huge hammer, the dragon murmured, "I see, so it is not time yet." With a contented sigh, the dragon closed its marble-like jade eyes.
Back in Nocturna, two weeks had passed since the incident in Glacium. In the early hours of the morning, the grass was still wet with dew drops, and the forest was shrouded in a gentle mist. Elias stood beneath a certain waterfall not far from their camp, taking a cold shower. He cursed at Vex for not going easy on him during their relentless training sessions over the past two weeks.
It was the morning before the start of the Festival of Celestials.
Elias stood under the icy torrent, muscles aching from the intense training. His breath came out in visible puffs as he muttered, "Damn old man, does he ever get tired?"
He stepped out from under the waterfall, shaking off the cold, and glanced towards the camp. Vex had been pushing him harder than ever, preparing him for the competition. Despite the grueling regimen, Elias couldn't deny the progress he had made. His body felt stronger, more resilient, and his connection to both cosmic and chaos energy had deepened.
The Festival of Celestials was a grand event, held every decade, where the five houses and the general public could showcase their skills in various competitions. The stakes were high, and the rewards even higher. It was a chance for Elias to prove himself, to step out of the shadows and into the light of recognition.
Vex approached, carrying a bundle wrapped in cloth. "Morning, kid. How was your shower?"
"Cold," Elias grumbled. "And you're still a slave driver."
Vex chuckled, unwrapping the bundle to reveal a new set of clothes. "Here, put these on. You'll need to look presentable for the festival."
Elias took the clothes, admiring the fine craftsmanship. "Thanks, Vex. You sure know how to make a guy look good."
"Remember," Vex said, his tone turning serious, "tomorrow is about more than just winning. It's about making a statement. Keep your powers in check, but don't be afraid to show what you're capable of. And most importantly, stay focused."
Elias nodded, his determination evident in his eyes. "I won't let you down."
As the morning sun began to rise, casting a golden glow over the forest, Elias and Vex made their way back to camp. The Festival of Celestials awaited them, and with it, the chance for Elias to carve out his destiny.
---
The city of Lumis bustled with activity as preparations for the festival were in full swing. Colorful banners adorned the streets, and the air was filled with the scent of exotic foods. The grand arena, where the competitions would take place, stood at the heart of the city, a symbol of the unity and strength of the five houses.
Elias took in the sights and sounds, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness. He was about to step into a world far larger than the jungle he had known for so long. But with Vex by his side and the training he had endured, he felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
"Alright, ladies and gentlemen, for all parties present," the announcer's voice boomed across the arena, "there are six insignias before you. Five of them represent the great Houses you all know well. The last one belongs to the ancient House of Blackwood, currently with no known members present."
A murmur of excitement and curiosity rippled through the crowd. The name Blackwood had not been spoken publicly in years. The announcer continued, his tone growing solemn, "We all know the history of these traitors, how they attempted to conquer the entire known universe. The Nine Great Houses stopped them, but at the cost of many lives. Their sacrifice a thousand years ago has not been forgotten."
He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle over the audience. "The remnants of Clan Blackwood are desperately trying to revive their once-great clan, but the current Houses will not allow it."
The crowd buzzed with anticipation and contempt. The hatred for Blackwood was still strong, even after a millennium. The announcer raised his voice, bringing everyone's attention back. "Now then, ladies and gentlemen, the first trial will take up to a week."
The audience listened intently, knowing that this would be a grueling test of skill and endurance. "In the first trial, representing the five Houses, each participant will follow their respective leader to an isolated island. There, your battle will start. Those who pick Clan Blackwood... I can only say good luck."
The crowd chuckled darkly, fully aware of the ominous implications. The announcer's voice grew louder, almost challenging. "Now, step forward, champions."
Five young men and women stepped forward, each bearing the insignia of their respective House with pride.
1. **Aric of House Luminara** - A tall, regal figure known for his mastery of light and energy manipulation.
2. **Lyra of House Celestia** - A graceful and cunning strategist, skilled in star magic and celestial navigation.
3. **Tarin of House Solaris** - A fiery warrior with unparalleled strength and control over flames.
4. **Shade of House Umbra** - A shadowy figure, an expert in stealth and illusion magic.
5. **Gaia of House Creek** - A grounded and formidable earth manipulator with a deep connection to nature.
"These young masters and mistresses will lead you into battle," the announcer declared, and the crowd erupted in wild cheers.
Now, almost all present participants flocked to the five Houses. Thousands upon thousands gathered under their banners, while only a small group of around a hundred approached the platform marked with the Blackwood insignia. This group consisted of women and children, young and old, all in torn clothing, bruised, hurt, and broken. They were slaves seeking a chance to fight against the cruelty of the Five Houses.
Vex stood at a distance, scanning the auras of those who chose Blackwood. Only a few among them possessed the true bloodline of the clan. He noted this with a heavy heart, understanding the desperation and courage it took for them to step forward.
"Elias," Vex communicated telepathically, "do you see the girl at the front of those headed for the clan's platform? She possesses the Blackwood bloodline, and those five beside her in black uniforms are her guards. Try to find out as much as you can during this trial. I'll be watching."
Elias, donning a mask and casting an illusion to appear as a slave, concealed Vex's personal crafting identity token in his pocket space and began his mission. The crowd jeered at those who chose Blackwood, mocking and cursing them.
---
As Elias moved toward the Blackwood platform, he observed the girl and her guards closely. The girl, despite her disheveled appearance, held herself with an air of quiet strength. Her guards, though weary, stayed close, protecting her from the hostile crowd.
Elias approached them, trying to blend in. "Hello," he said softly, his voice carrying the right blend of deference and curiosity, "I'm Elias. I chose Blackwood too."
The girl ignored him, her eyes sharp. "I'm Seraphina," she replied. Who are you really?"
Elias smiled, impressed by her perceptiveness. "Just a survivor. We should stick together if we want to make it through this."
Seraphina nodded, accepting his presence. "Agreed. We need all the allies we can get."
As they approached the arena, Vex said a few words telepathically "Remember, you're a Blackwood. That name carries weight, even if most have forgotten. Show them what it means to bear that name."
Elias nodded, a fierce determination burning in his eyes. "I will, Vex. I promise."
With that, they stepped into the arena, ready to face the trials that awaited them at the Festival of Celestials.