Chapter 11: CENTRAL HALL

As Alex entered the room, he surveyed his surroundings, noting the stark simplicity compared to the rooms below.

"Are you wondering why the room looks so plain?" inquired Harrison, casting a soft gaze towards his grandson whom he hadn't met for many years.

"Yes, Grandpa," Alex replied in curiosity.

"It's because the founder of the clan cherished a simple life and wasn't drawn to luxury. He intentionally kept this room plain, and no one has dared to change it," explained Harrison thinking of the glorious past of the Obsidian clan.

"Maybe he wanted future generations to remember their humble origins before being consumed by their power and forget themselves in it," suggested Alex, his eyes drawn to the smiling portrait of the founder and his two brothers who looked very happy.

Harrison was slightly surprised by Alex's insight, lamenting that many in the clan had forgotten such a fundamental principle, overtaken by their hunger for power and couldn't understand this simple fact or intentionally chose to ignore it.

"How is your father doing?" asked Harrison, his tone seemingly indifferent as if he didn't care, though those close to him, like Butler Alfred, sensed genuine concern.

"Father is doing very well, and everyone in the family is happy," Alex replied with a joyful smile.

"That's good," acknowledged Harrison, reaching for a small pouch adorned with the Obsidian clan's symbol, handing it to Alex.

As Alex examined the pouch, noticing its uniqueness, he began to inquire, but before he could voice his question, Harrison spoke.

"It's a storage pouch containing the first part of the Skyrumble Emperor cultivation technique, helping you reach the Soul Resonance stage and as for the second part you can get it after reaching the soul resonance stage, and also there are 100 middle-grade spirit crystals."

"Thanks, Grandpa," Alex expressed gratitude, bowing his head.

"No need to say that since it's not like I am giving this only to you," remarked Harrison, retrieving a pitch-black amulet.

"Keep it with you. It will aid you if you ever find yourself in danger," Harrison advised, engaging Alex in further conversation for some time.

After their discussion, Alex made his way toward the central hall, guided by Butler Alfred, where others destined for the academy awaited their journey.

As Alex and Butler Alfred approached the entrance of the central hall, a guard poised to halt Alex's progress quickly abandoned his intention upon recognizing Alfred as the guide.

Alex, appreciative of Alfred's assistance, turned towards him, expressing his gratitude, "Thanks for guiding me here, Mister Alfred."

Alfred responded with a nod "It's my duty, young master," before gracefully continuing on his assigned path.

With a smile on his face, Alex approached the guard stationed at the entrance, presenting a token that unmistakably identified him as part of the clan's esteemed sequences.

"Your entrance is granted, young master," the guard replied respectfully, a gesture of acknowledgment after carefully scrutinizing the token.

The guard led Alex through a convoluted network of corridors, the tight security evident from the vigilant presence of numerous guards.

The powerful and intimidating auras emanating from these guards hinted at their formidable strength and their unwavering commitment to their duties.

Upon reaching the terminus of the corridor, the guard, having fulfilled his duty, gave a courteous nod before Alex pushed open the imposing doors that stood before him, revealing a room where ten young men and women had gathered.

The atmosphere in the room crackled with anticipation as Alex stepped inside.

The room itself unfolded as a testament to extravagance. Jewels and stones adorned every corner, their sparkle catching the eye. Golden tables and plush, luxurious chairs beckoned, and an assortment of opulent couches and sofas adorned the space, creating an ambiance of regal indulgence.

As Alex stepped into this resplendent setting, the attention of every young man and woman in the room turned towards him. The majority appeared to be in their late teens, although a handful bore the maturity that comes with having crossed the threshold into their twenties.

Suddenly, a voice broke through the ambient murmur, "Wow, little brother Alex! I didn't think we'd meet here."

Approaching with an air of familiarity, a young man dressed in a striking shade of blue, who seemed to share a close bond with Alex, added an extra layer of charm to the already lavish atmosphere.

The combination of Alex's distinguished black robes and handsome features, coupled with the stylish presence of the young man in blue, created a scene so captivating that it prompted a subtle blush among some of the young ladies present.

As Alex turned around, he recognized Lucas, the son of Uncle David, who had been a regular visitor to their home over the past nine years. With a warm and friendly demeanor, Lucas approached Alex, playfully patting his shoulder.

"Hahaha, who would believe that we'd meet again so soon? But this time, if we spar, I'll be the one to win," Lucas declared with a mischievous glint in his eye.

In a more subdued tone, he leaned in and inquired, "Has any young lady in this room made your young heart beat?"

"No," replied Alex, a subtle smile playing on his lips as he indicated his current lack of interest in matters of the heart.

Despite Lucas's underlying hint of arrogance, his interactions with Alex over the years had forged a genuine friendship.

Lucas's mindset was refreshingly straightforward—help him, and he'd consider you a friend; provoke him or his friends, and expect a less amicable response.

As the two friends found a suitable place to sit, an unfamiliar woman with striking silver hair emerged from behind them.

Her voice cut through the air, capturing their attention, "So, you are Alex, the one who awakened the Demi-God talent?" The room, already filled with an air of anticipation, seemed to hold its breath for Alex's response.

When Alex turned his head, he beheld Silvia dressed in silver attire, her gaze fixed upon him, awaiting his response.

"Yes, I am," Alex replied confidently, meeting her gaze with a calm assurance.