The nine graduates from Hall 60, all hailing from the lower realm, found themselves at a pivotal crossroads. Their situation mirrored what the Earth acolytes had faced 15 years ago—a mont of decision that would determine their future in the Magus universe.
They were presented with two primary options: return to their ho planets, where they would be denied further access to the Magus universe until they broke through to the Magus realm, or join a faction or Magus Alliance organization, such as the military or enforcers, to earn rit points that would allow them to retain access to their ho worlds.
These lower realm acolytes were in a position similar to the Earth factions—subsidiaries of larger factions or newly established grade-one factions with limited resources and influence. For them, an invitation to join a higher faction, even temporarily, was akin to finding an oasis in a scorching desert. It represented a rare opportunity to gain access to the resources, training, and connections that could propel them toward their goals.
Among the group, Kat and Damo, both top acolytes with silver and golden insignia, found themselves inundated with invitations. These offers ca from grade two and grade three factions, each one more tempting than the last. These factions were eager to recruit such promising talents, offering not only resources but also positions of influence and the potential for rapid advancent within their ranks.
Dillion even had caught the eye of two grade four factions, a rare and prestigious opportunity. One of these factions was none other than the Proxima faction, ruler of the Centauri City. Ery's heart leaned towards wanting these young acolytes to join the Earth factions. The faction was growing, and having trusted individuals—people he personally knew—would be a significant advantage.
However, he was acutely aware that he had little to offer them compared to the allure of more established factions. He understood deeply how vital a connection to one's own world could be, and how it shaped a person's identity and purpose.
With this in mind, Ery's advice was straightforward and heartfelt.
He suggested they consider returning to their ho worlds to develop and uplift their own people. For Dillion, Kat, and Damo, he believed their potential was imnse. With their current abilities, they should be able to break through to the Magus realm within less than five years.
The other six acolytes had been equipped with potions and resources, including the [Awakening Scroll] provided by the academy. Ery was confident that within a decade, they too would reach a Magus realm.
Ery laid out the benefits of focusing on their law comprehension and personal growth over rushing into battle. He emphasized that by returning to their ho worlds and dedicating themselves to their studies and training, they would not only increase their chances of a successful breakthrough to the Magus realm but also avoid accruing debts or obligations to any external factions.
This path, while slower and less glamorous, offered a purity of purpose that could ultimately lead to greater power and independence.
For those among them who felt a strong desire to contribute to the ongoing war, Ery offered a sobering perspective.
The war had raged for millennia and would likely continue for many more. He urged them to consider that another decade spent honing their skills would better prepare them to make a aningful impact when they finally did join the fray.
"Right now, the death rate for non-Magus acolytes on the frontlines is 35% per year, without reaching a Magus realm, there's only so much you can do"
He acknowledged, though, that there were exceptions. He ntioned Thrax, whose growth seed to accelerate with each battle he fought. There were also unique circumstances where acolytes might need to join factions close to their ho planets due to various external pressures or obligations.
Understanding that each individual's situation was unique, in the end, he made it clear that the choice was theirs to make. He trusted them to weigh their options and decide on the path that best suited their circumstances.
"I won't judge whichever path you choose," The room fell silent after Ery's words, each acolyte deep in thought. Kat, the most outspoken, finally broke the silence. "Master, this last year has been more than just an incredible experience... to ... It felt like a family. I wish we could all stay together, continue to learn, and grow as a team."
Kat was concerned that once each of them joined different factions, they would have their own set of responsibilities that might clash with each other. She hated to imagine a future where they might have to face each other on opposite sides of the battlefield.
Damo, already part of the Earth faction, nodded in agreent, but none of the others spoke. Ery could see the internal conflict etched on their faces—the desire to stay as a group, but the pull of their individual paths.
Ery's gaze shifted to Dillion, the one who had always been quiet but determined. "What do you think?"
To everyone's surprise, Dillion dropped to one knee, his head bowed in a gesture of respect and his voice steady. "Master, please let join your faction. I wish to continue to stay under your guidance."
Ery was taken aback by Dillion's decision. He knew the imnse pressure Dillion's family faced from nearby factions and how joining a grade 4 faction could alleviate those problems. But Dillion's response left him montarily speechless.
"Master… just like you, I believe the best way to deal with my family's situation isn't through the backing of any faction, but by becoming stronger myself… and I believe you are my best hope."
Ery felt a mix of emotions—honor, responsibility, and a deep concern for Dillion's family. He understood that Dillion wasn't just seeking a ntor; he was seeking a path that would allow him to rise above his circumstances, much like Ery had done. There was also the Khaos energy, which was sothing unique Ery possessed, a force that could give Damo benefits none like others.
As much as Ery felt honored by Dillion's trust, a part of him couldn't shake the worry. He hated the thought of Dillion's family suffering because of his choice.
When the tension hung in the air, Klea stepped forward. She turned to Ery and said "I think we can offer them more than you realize,"
Klea had been quietly contemplating this issue for weeks, seeking counsel from various sources. Her mind had been busy formulating a solution that could not only assist these lower realm acolytes but also bolster the strength of Earth factions.
"We could establish our own Lower Realm Alliance."
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