Aeron stood in his small shack, staring at the book that had become his constant companion. With a deep breath, he opened it, and a dark, swirling energy enveloped him, pulling him into its realm. Time within the book flowed differently, and he knew he had a full month to train and grow stronger.
The realm was vast and ominous, filled with shadowy figures and landscapes that seemed to shift with every blink. Aeron trained relentlessly, honing his skills, mastering the Death Law, and pushing his body to its limits. Each day brought new challenges, each night a deeper understanding of the power within him.
When the month finally ended, Aeron emerged from the book, transformed.
Aeron stepped out of the dark energy, feeling the weight of his new strength. He walked over to a cracked mirror in the corner of his shack and gazed at his reflection.
His once frail frame was now lean and muscular, every inch of his body radiating a quiet, deadly strength. His skin, once marred by the harsh conditions of the slums, was now pale—almost white—but paradoxically, it exuded health. His silvery hair, which had grown during his time in the book, now cascaded down to his waist, shining faintly in the dim light.
His eyes were perhaps the most striking change. They had always held a spark of defiance, but now they gleamed with a predator's sharpness, their piercing gaze both terrifying and mesmerizing. It was as if his eyes could see straight into a person's soul, calmly waiting for their time to end, much like the grim reaper himself.
Aeron sighed, brushing his hair back. "This is too eye-catching," he muttered. He grabbed a dark cloak from a hook on the wall, pulling the hood over his head to conceal his features. The cloak hung loosely around his frame, but it did little to hide the aura of power he now carried.
Before leaving, he gave himself one last look in the mirror. The daily revitalization he received from the book had kept him clean and fresh, a small mercy considering the state of the world outside.
The road to the academy was bustling with activity. The surroundings grew more opulent the closer Aeron got, with towering gates of black iron standing before him. Beyond them lay the famed Dusk Academy, a sprawling complex of dark stone buildings and intricate carvings, exuding an aura of both grandeur and foreboding.
The area before the gate was filled with people from all walks of life. On one side, the rich and affluent stood in their fine clothes, their gazes dripping with disdain as they observed those less fortunate. Their wealth was evident in their haughty expressions and the way they held themselves.
On the other side, the poor and downtrodden gathered, their eyes filled with awe and admiration. Different races kept to their own groups—elves with their ethereal beauty, dwarves with their sturdy builds, and humans trying to hold their own amidst the sea of diversity.
Aeron noticed the stark divide and the silent tension that filled the air. The rich looked down on the poor, while the poor could only admire the unattainable luxury and strength of the affluent.
A booming voice echoed across the courtyard, silencing the crowd. It was deep and authoritative, demanding attention.
"Welcome to the gates of the glorious Dusk Academy! To be accepted into this prestigious institution, you must pass five trials. Each trial will test your strength, intelligence, and willpower. Only those who are worthy will proceed. Good luck!"
The gate creaked open, and the crowd stirred. The rich moved forward first, their confidence unshaken. Behind them, the higher races followed, their movements graceful and assured. Finally, the humans, including Aeron, were allowed to enter, their steps cautious but determined.
As Aeron walked, his enhanced senses picked up a conversation from the group of elves ahead.
"Oh, look at the number of people this year," one elf said, her voice dripping with disdain. "Even the poor ones dare to try."
Another elf snickered. "Leave them be. They have no idea what these trials entail. My father said that only a dragon has ever achieved a full score. Humans? They won't even come close."
Aeron's lips curled into a smirk. He slowed his pace, allowing their words to sink in. Their arrogance didn't bother him—it fueled him.
Stopping in his tracks, Aeron summoned the book. Its dark energy swirled around him as he held it up. "They think we'll fail," he murmured, his voice steady and calm. "But that's not me."
His words were quiet, yet those around him heard the unmistakable arrogance in his tone. Some turned to look at him, their expressions a mix of surprise and disdain. Whispers spread among the crowd, but Aeron paid them no mind.
The book, which had always maintained a cold and detached demeanor, seemed momentarily stunned. For a moment, it said nothing, as if processing Aeron's unexpected confidence.
Finally, the book spoke, its voice carrying a hint of amusement. "You're growing bolder, aren't you? Very well. Let's see if your actions can match your words."
Aeron smirked, tucking the book away. He adjusted his cloak and continued toward the academy, his resolve unwavering. The trials awaited, and he was ready to prove himself.
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