Rebirth of the Nameless Immortal God Chapter 5

At the deepest level of the central pillar sprawled a vast ceremonial chamber. Carpets in shades of lavender and crimson covered the floor, clashing boldly with the blue tones streaming in from the encircling lake. This majestic space marked the only submerged floor of the center pillar and soaring skyscraper, featuring a ceiling soaring at least 30 meters overhead.

Robust silver columns, etched with elaborate designs, traced the chamber's round perimeter. Pillar upon pillar lent the space an overpowering aura, broken solely by the spaces for the six doorways linking to the outer pillars.

The motifs on the silver pillars appeared to brace the ceiling by blending seamlessly into it, extending the mesmerizing patterns upward to a colossal chandelier.

Numerous round tables crowded the expansive hall, draped in fabrics mirroring the carpet's deep crimson hue. Ornate floral displays and glowing candles adorned their centers, radiating endless riches.

Toward the far end of the chamber rose broad stairs ascending to six thrones. The same familiar figures from the silver yacht occupied them, resuming their facade of courtesy.

The striking dark-skinned Duco spoke up. “Patia-Neva, your daughter has grown to be quite beautiful.”

A sturdy, impassive man claimed one of the two central thrones. His deep olive skin tone harmonized perfectly with Delia's. Eyes of aged, murky brown gleamed forth. His splendid beard cascaded in rich brown threaded with white strands. His medium-length hair lay neatly combed to one side.

Like the other family heads, he wore robes befitting their rank—a flowing red garment secured by a golden chain emblazoned with the focus symbol (F) at its core.

He smiled. “Indeed she has. I hear Fero has grown to be quite dependable. The Duco family will have good times ahead.”

Duco smiled, grateful for the praise yet inwardly startled. She had employed numerous tactics to conceal Fero’s true potential, yet the Patia-Neva family head had discerned it anyway.

A tall, sharp-featured Asian man, his face retaining youthful vitality, approached the nobles and settled into the remaining throne beside Patia-Neva. He gave a nod of acknowledgment before shutting his eyes to ready himself for the ceremony.

The shorter Asian man eyed him briefly before looking elsewhere. “It seems the Kami family head has come. Now that we’re all here, we can begin. Correct, Headmaster?”

Delia’s father nodded in assent. His gaze swept the room, as though seeking someone, before fixing on his daughter seated at a table with the other pillar family chosen. Delia shot him a sharp glance that carried her intent.

Delia’s father comprehended. “I guess he’s not coming,” he murmured softly. “No matter.”

He rose to his feet, and a tremendous pressure flooded the chamber.

All present halted their actions as silence descended. The chandelier's gentle sway from the ceiling provided the only noise—a subtle tinkling echo. Even as Focus Academy's finest instructors, they dared not utter a sound while the Headmaster addressed them.

“Today, we’ve gathered in honor of the opening of a new year at our Focus Academy. As is customary, the chosen of our families will display their talents for us today to showcase their level of understanding of martial theory.”

He turned toward the table of young talents, casting a swift look at the empty chair.

“I’m sure you all understand the importance of this event. You only get 1 chance, and in many ways, it will decide your path for at least the next 10 years. Stay resolute. Be confident. Display your focus. We will all bear witness to the level of will you can display.”

A massive youth, nearly identical to the hulking man from the yacht, stood tall, his blue eyes blazing with rivalry. “It would be an honor if you would allow me to go first, Headmaster.” The youth cupped his hands and bowed deeply.

Patia-Neva nodded before reclaiming his throne. An unseen force lifted the tables, chairs, and people, smoothly shifting them to the room's borders. With closed eyes, detecting the movement would prove impossible. Yet keen, practiced gazes recognized the handiwork of a soul path formation master.

In the cleared central area, a platform rose three feet high, letting the towering boy advance boldly and vault onto it.

“SPEAR!” The boy bellowed, his voice booming far deeper than expected for his age.

A sleek black carbon spear took form, its point glinting with razor silver while lightning sparked along the shaft.

The nobles nodded approvingly.

“He’s able to call upon the elements. Although faint, this is proof of at least a basic understanding of the will of lightning, at least the first of the nine levels. Something that was commendable for such a youth.” A Focus Academy mentor chuckled, stroking his beard.

This display alone could attract several sponsors, but Family Head Storm’s grin only widened further.

Dark clouds gathered as the youth twirled his spear. He darted with startling speed, defying his massive build. The lightning flashes in the ominous clouds intensified steadily until he crested his sequence.

“Ha!” The boy thundered. A massive lightning bolt plunged onto the platform, striking the spear's tip precisely as he executed his final sweep.

Headmaster Patia-Neva flicked his hand swiftly, conjuring a barrier around the platform.

The barrier shimmered and warped under the youth's thrust but held steadfast.

Sweat trickled down the youth’s forehead, yet a smug smile spread across his boyish face. “I am Hauk Storm. Remember my name.”

The barrier dissolved as Hauk descended from the platform.

Thunderous laughter boomed through the room. “Haha! Well done, son.”