Chapitre 18: The Guardian Trials Begin
Ryo and Hana stand in a massive stone courtyard, the entrance to the Tower of Ascension looming before them. The other Scrapers who survived the Qualification Arena are gathered here as well, each group separated and tense. The energy in the air is electric, filled with anticipation and fear.
The man with the mechanical arm, who has introduced himself as Gregor, stands at the front of the courtyard, his expression serious. "Welcome, Scrapers, to the Guardian Trials. You have proven your strength, your will, and your courage. But the real test begins now."
Gregor gestures to the entrance of the tower, its massive stone doors etched with intricate symbols that seem to shimmer in the dim light. "Inside this tower, you will face trials unlike anything you've encountered before. Each floor presents a new challenge, a new obstacle. You will be tested not just in strength and skill, but in mind and spirit as well."
Ryo's heart pounds as he listens. He knows these trials will push them to their limits. The Crap Field was brutal, the City of Ascension ruthless, but something about this tower feels… different. It's not just about survival. It's about proving something — to themselves, to the Managers, to whatever twisted force controls this world.
"Only those who reach the top of the tower will be granted the title of Guardian," Gregor continues. "It is an honor that comes with great responsibility — and even greater power. But be warned: failure at any stage means death. There are no second chances."
The crowd murmurs, tension rippling through the gathered Scrapers. Ryo glances at Hana, who's standing beside him, her face set with determination.
"We'll make it," Ryo says quietly, though he's not sure if he's trying to convince Hana or himself.
Hana nods, her jaw clenched. "We have to."
Gregor raises a hand, and the murmuring crowd falls silent. "The trials begin now. Each group will face the tower alone. You will have no help, no support. Only your own strength and wits will carry you through."
The stone doors creak open, revealing a dark, foreboding staircase that winds upward into the tower's depths. Ryo feels a shiver run down his spine as he stares into the darkness. This is it. Their greatest test yet.
"Ryo and Hana, step forward," Gregor calls out.
Ryo's stomach tightens as they move toward the entrance. He can feel the eyes of the other Scrapers on them, some filled with envy, others with pity. The door looms before them, a massive, imposing barrier between them and whatever awaits inside.
"May the strongest survive," Gregor says, his voice cold.
Ryo and Hana exchange a final glance, then step through the doors and into the darkness beyond.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone