—

Zieg and Veradin vanished with a light breeze, each blinking away, symbolizing their incredible strength. After they left, Kieran turned to Scar, who continued to ruffle his hair with a proud smile.

"You've outdone yourself, boy. To think Lord Veradin would request that you at least pass the 5th round. Not many people have the heart to persist until that round. That alone indicates that he expects great things for you."

"I'm guessing you have experienced The Immemorial Gladiator Trial. Is there anything you can tell me about it?" Kieran asked.

"Hmm," Scar considered how much he should reveal since it was a trial designed to test resiliency and tenacity. "Hmm, the first to fourth rounds aren't difficult if you are confident in your strength. However, the fifth round is no longer just a matter of strength. It's quite unclearable if you don't have the prerequisite skills."

"What would those skills be?" Kieran grew interested in Scar's description of the event because it veered away from an average Warrior's lacking ability.

"Skills capable of mass destruction. Either that or incredibly monstrous Stamina to awaken another power hidden within humans. If I'm being honest, I believe it's possible if you become slightly stronger. You have yet to reach your full potential."

Scar didn't need to know Kieran's exact level to understand that he hadn't reached the threshold to Advance. There was a particular essence lacking within Kieran―an essence that all individuals obtained after stepping upon the verge of transformation.

"That's true," Kieran admitted. However, he also was confused. "Does Dread Culling not count as a skill of mass destruction? It's considered an S Rank Skill."

"It's certainly powerful, but it's not at the standard of untold destruction. Well, actually, that's incorrect on my part. You continue to improve and hone your skills, so they can all become incomparably dangerous. It's a matter of understanding how best to improve them. That's where our paths as True Berserkers diverge."

Kieran detected the truth in Scar's words. He internalized the principles of becoming a True Berserker, but he wasn't a mirror image of Scar. Kieran noticed that some of his skills, while aesthetically identical to Scar's, exhibited different effects.

This was due to the innate difference in their blood, personality, experiences, and other factors unique to any individual.

All of a sudden, Scar's expression grew serious as he gazed into Kieran's eyes. "Because learning an Esoteric Skill is far more dangerous than Dread Culling, especially an Esoteric Skill created by a True Berserker, I won't impart the skill until your soul heals completely. Are you irritated by this at all?"

"I won't lie by saying it isn't infuriating. But I understand that you're looking out for my safety. I'll just have to ensure my soul heals quickly to pry that skill out of you. Speaking of which.. am I free to choose, or will you decide for me?"

"Since you have performed remarkably well, I'll let you choose from a few when the time comes," Scar said after considering Kieran's accomplishments.

"Sweet," Kieran grinned, chuckling softly.

If he could choose from an assortment of Esoteric Skills, it increased the chances of him picking a skill that suited his style well. Scar's decision on the skill beforehand could inhibit Kieran's style.

"Teach, I have a request," Kieran suddenly voiced.

"What is it?" Scar muttered. But at the same time, his gaze swept toward the door where he could sense a few presences not too far away. Within those presences were Veradin and Zieg.

'I suppose they've already arranged a meeting regarding what transpired in this room. Lord Veradin is as punctual as ever,' Scar mused.

"I want to roam the continent for about a day or so. Is that possible? I aspire to create my own force, but that is impossible without acquiring the proper tools. I believe Slazoya can present that opportunity to me," Kieran stated his desire, not mincing any of his words.

Scar lowered his gaze and looked at Kieran expectantly. "I suspected as much. A talented young man like yourself wouldn't be content with following in another's footsteps. By all means, if you wish to roam, then roam. On this continent, your crest is a large deterrent, especially the one in your possession."

As the continent bearing the War Deity Council's headquarters, Slazoya's security was the highest. No one was foolish enough to trouble its members, much less one of their Champions, which would command a large-scale investigation if signs of foul play were detected.

This was why Slazoya was also regarded as the Continent of Colossals. Only organizations of great renown were confident enough to act recklessly on this continent, but it was moderate.

If their lawlessness grew rampant, the War Deity Council's Enforcers or Centurions would sweep in and eradicate them.

Once Kieran obtained permission to roam, he beamed. He recalled Liam saying that the headquarters was located outside the outskirts of the Prophyte Empire, which was the mightiest empire in terms of martial and financial might.

Because of its robust stability, its prices and accessibility should be much higher than an empire like the Xesian Empire.

Nevertheless, Kieran was content with his decision. Otherwise, becoming a True Berserker would have been impossible.

"Before you venture outside, visit General Xithora once more and have her put you through another healing cycle. In the meantime, I will return to the Hero's Sanctuary as I need to prepare. It would seem that Gestalt has acquired his new inheritor. I suspect the others will obtain theirs shortly," Scar revealed.

Kieran's expression didn't change because he was aware of this information. Ezra had revealed it to him less than an hour ago. The only thing Kieran didn't suspect was the fact Scar had to prepare.

Perhaps the Trial of Inheritors was more pivotal than Kieran believed it to be.

"I will," Kieran nodded.

..

Roughly thirty minutes later, Kieran returned to the healing chambers after exploring areas he was permitted entry into. After becoming a Champion, Kieran found that his status was similar to that of a Lieutenant.

While he didn't possess the same benefits as a Lieutenant or command the same authority on the battlefield, he could enter the same places.

After returning to the healing chambers, Kieran met a few familiar faces― Zerim Ignis and Yashua Dabura.

They each required healing, and after obtaining their rewards, they were allowed to visit the General-level healers due to the status of their backers.

"Aatrox," Yashua voiced, cupping his fist respectfully. His eyes fell to Kieran's wound, but they quickly returned to Kieran's indifferent gaze.

"Yashua," Kieran answered. His lips curved into a faint smile while shaking Yashua's extended hand.

"Congratulations to both you and High Commander Scar. I was taken aback by what I saw. I didn't know you hid such monstrous strength. I appreciate you for being lenient with me," Yashua touched his chest with a slight nod.

"Lenient? Not at all. I would never repay friendliness with contempt. Also, you were amazing yourself. You were a true shock. I could sense a change within you."

Afterward, Kieran turned to Zerim and clasped his hand as well. But this time, Kieran smiled bitterly. "How are your injuries? Forgive me if I was too heavy-handed. I was too focused on victory and neglected the potential fallout of my actions."

"There is nothing to be sorry about, Aatrox," Zerim said. "As I stated during our battle, there were no hard feelings during our fight. It was simply a matter of determining our fates, and yours proved more resilient."

Kieran stared at Zerim silently for a few moments. He couldn't understand how this man was so calm and composed in the face of defeat. There was the slightest emotional fluctuation on Zerim's face.

Although Kieran had suffered his fair share of defeats in the past, he felt discontent with them all. Those defeats fueled his climb to the top and contributed to his drive. Talent could only take one so far; the rest was work ethic.

"I must say, your mindset is truly inspirational. As long as you maintain that outlook, your future will undoubtedly be bright," Kieran praised.

Zerim's expression lightened, and he smiled with his eyes. "I appreciate that. Coming from our generation's Champion, I believe your words hold authentic value."

Zerim understood that becoming a Champion required obscene potential, especially with a generation that included an outlier like Ronan. Overcoming Ronan's test was something Kieran found most challenging during the competition.

Compared to his brief exchange with Ronan, the fight with Bracca and Thrax wasn't worth mentioning.

It was only a feeling in Kieran's heart at the moment, but he felt Ronan's true power exceeded his current level. He wouldn't be surprised if Ronan could produce abilities surpassing an Advanced Being's scope.

This assumption originated from the fact Ronan didn't break a sweat or invoke any power when testing Kieran.

'I want to have a proper fight with him, but not until I feel I'm ready. I don't doubt his growth potential, so there's no telling what level he'll reach at that time. But that's what excites me. Whatever it is, I'll resolve myself then,' Kieran inwardly thought.

Zerim, Yashua, and Kieran continued talking amongst themselves until Zerim voiced why he wanted to meet with Kieran.

"Aatrox, I would like to extend a warm welcome to the Ignis Family in the northern part of this continent. If you agree, my grandfather and I would like to extend our hospitality."

"Visit the Ignis Family?" Kieran parroted, his words trailing off after considering the offer.

'From what I saw, Zerim's family should specialize in flame-wielding. This visit could be beneficial,' Kieran estimated.

Eventually, Kieran nodded. "How can I decline your polite offer to welcome me into your home? I'm willing."historical

"Remarkable!" Zerim exclaimed. "I have taken up enough of your time; focus on healing for now. I'll fetch you once my grandfather is set to return home."