As all these events unfolded, news of Ulric's rise spread across Tempest City like wildfire.
Elsewhere inside the Silverblood residence,
a group of nobles stood draped in crystalline robes, staring at a shimmering portal at the center of the hall.
From it, rows of battered youths stepped out, their levels ranging from Level 1 to 5.
At the front stood a girl draped in a silver robe, with pale dark eyes and short dark hair. Her level exceeded the rest, making her stand out with her Level 9 aura. Fewer bruises lay across her body than the others, with a faint battle glint flashing in her eyes.
When the portal snapped shut, a middle-aged man slowly stepped out, walking forward and inspecting the rows of youths with an indifferent expression.
When he arrived before the girl, his eyes pierced through hers before a slow smile finally curved across his face as his head nodded gently.
"You've not disappointed me."
