Chapter 12 The boys gathered around as Father Thorian announced the next phase: bonding with their chosen war beasts through a blood ritual. The rules were simple state the number of the beast, offer a drop of blood, and if the creature accepted it, the bond would be complete.The first boy confidently stepped forward. “Number 14.”From one of the stables emerged a snarling two-star Hellish Hound with thick black fur, red eyes, and massive tusks that jutted out like curved blades. Gasps filled the hall. It was the kind of beast that exuded power and violence.“Excellent choice,” Father Thorian said with approval. “A beast with raw aggression and two-star potential.”As the ritual began, Adrian stood quietly at the back, hands folded behind him, eyes drifting toward the darker end of the stable. He already knew the number he would call.He had found his companion earlier tucked in a shadowed corner, sickly and trembling, yet sweet and brave enough to lick his hand with affection. Ther

Chapter 14As soon as Arlena gave the command, the group of trainees scattered like startled birds, rushing to settle their beasts and change into their training uniforms. The ground thundered with their hurried steps, echoing the urgency of her fifteen-minute deadline. The stable doors creaked, and curses filled the air as boys stumbled over each other.Except for Adrian.He stood still for a moment, brushing off a speck of dust from his shoulder like royalty. “Fifteen minutes? That’s barely enough time for a proper stretch,” he muttered, voice dripping with sarcasm. His little beast, cradled in his arms like a kitten, nuzzled against his chest with innocent affection.Arlena's sharp eyes followed him as he moved at a leisurely pace, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. “That brat,” she muttered under her breath. “He’s either bold or brainless.”From a distance, Father Thorian watched too, arms crossed, scoffing. “He’s always been a spoiled prince. Just wait until he gets left