Shadows of the UnseenThe air in Stormpine Martial Hall had shifted overnight. The aftermath of the First Trial of Shadows lingered like a half-remembered dream—thick, suffocating, yet electrifying. Courtyards glistened with dew, lanterns flickered faintly against the pale dawn, and even the walls seemed to hum with anticipation.Alaric Vale moved through the eastern corridors, every step measured, every breath controlled, his senses stretched taut across the hall’s shifting landscape. Observation Group Theta had not yet appeared, yet he felt their presence in every corner, every shadow. Victor Dane remained unaccounted for, but Alaric knew he was watching, testing, probing like a predator stalking invisible prey.At the edge of the outer training grounds, the rising sun cast pale shafts of light through lingering mist. Each reflection in the puddles teased the mind with false movement. Alaric’s eyes narrowed; perception and reality often blurred here—but he had learned the difference

The Silent DuelLocation: Stormpine Martial Hall – Procurement DivisionStormpine Martial Hall’s Procurement Division was never truly quiet. Hidden beneath routine trade and orderly ledgers was a web of power that stretched across Shorefield Ward. The Tianfeng Trading House served as the economic backbone of the Hall, binding restaurants, music halls, and elite venues into a single chain of interests that funneled wealth back into Stormpine without pause.Among all departments, Procurement stood at the peak. Its members were not simple traders but outer disciples trusted with influence and resources. Entry was rare. Status and capability were absolute requirements.On this rare idle day, discussion drifted away from business.“The representative for the Three Hall Martial Assembly was already decided. Adrian Vale,” someone said. “So why does a challenger suddenly appear? From the new batch, no less.”“Adrian reached six resonance strikes half a year ago,” another replied. “After perso