Liven walked with heavy steps through the cold, silent streets of Vellan. The city was still, but the thoughts in his mind shattered the quiet—he was no longer Riven. He had left the past behind, adopting a new name and walking a new path: Liven.
Yet the weight of his past still pressed upon his shoulders. The Devil's voice echoed in his mind:
"You are my plaything… let's see what you do with the power I've given you."
He squinted his eyes as he approached the entrance to the guild, his face a mixture of resolve and fatigue. Alone, he moved through Vellan's narrow streets, flanked by ancient stone buildings, shadows stretching long across the ground.
A narrow alley opened up to an old-looking building with an iron door. Above it, a faded sign read:
"Gaçe Nail Guild"
The guard standing at the entrance eyed him suspiciously.
"What's your name?" the man asked, his tone sharp.
"Liven," he said simply. "I've come… to join."
The guard scrutinized him for a moment. His grey hair and striking red eyes were hard to ignore. Then he opened the door.
"Step inside. But trust no one here."
As Liven entered, the chill inside immediately hit him. Stone walls, dim lighting, and countless eyes—all fixed on the new arrival. Some watched with disdain, others with curiosity, and a few with subtle menace.
A voice rose suddenly from the crowd:
"A new one, huh… What did you say your name was?"
Following the sound, Liven's gaze landed on a woman. Her eyes were sharp, her long black hair falling over a dark navy cloak.
"Eliana," she introduced herself. "I am your trainer here. But first, I want to know—why are you here?"
Liven bowed his head slightly.
"To control my power… and to find myself."
Eliana narrowed her eyes.
"Or perhaps… you're only here for revenge. Know this: here, revenge does not rule. Discipline does."
At that moment, another figure entered the room. Tall, muscular, and with a scarred face, he looked Liven over with a mocking tone.
"If he's going to stay… he must pass the test first."
Liven's mind flickered to memories of his past. A brief surge of anger crossed his face, but he drew a deep breath.
"Whatever the test… I am ready," he said, voice firm with determination.
And deep within, the Devil's voice whispered once more:
"Good… the darkness now completely envelops you. Let's see how long you can endure…"
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