After walking for about 30 minutes, he arrived at the border.
Massive walls, reaching up to 50 meters high, stood before him constructed from the hardened carcasses of fallens. They had a steel-like sheen that glistened under the light, yet deep claw marks and dents were visible everywhere, evidence of the horrors that attacked from time to time.
This was why the outskirts were one of the worst places to live.
Fallens could appear at any moment and kill anyone.
Zephyr spotted the gate—a massive structure towering 20 meters high.
Awakened individuals were stationed there.They maintained order and acted as guards.
"Stop."A muscular man wearing a deep blue uniform stood in front of him. A massive scar stretched across his face from his mouth up to his forehead making him look terrifying. On his chest was a badge symbolizing a creature with the body of a lion and the wings of a bird a griffin
They were from the Wingveil Clan, specialists in flying Wisps.
Even though Trials were random, if a person strongly willed or desired a specific type of Wisp, the likelihood of bonding with it increased.
This phenomenon was called resonance. They resonated with each other, making the bonding process easier though the rarity of the Wisp still varied.
This led to the formation of clans that specialized in specific types of Wisps, just like the Wingveil Clan.
There were five Great Clans, along with several minor clans that followed them. Together with the Council, they ruled and protected the human domain. Those who belonged to them possessed power, wealth, and fame.
Zephyr stopped in front of the scarred man.
"I want to register," he said.
"Hoh… so you're saying you passed your first Trial," the man replied.
"Yes, though I barely survived," Zephyr answered.
"Hahaha! You're lucky, I guess. So, are you already bonded with your Wisp?"
"Not yet." Zephyr answered truthfully
It was a common question. A Wisp could be attracted to someone, but that didn't mean they were already bonded.
Both parties had to agree before the bond could be formed.
'Roc, what kind of Wisp does this kid have?' the man asked telepathically.
"It looks like a floating ball with
countless maws," replied a chibi-like bird Wisp surrounded by swirling wind.
'Any idea what type it is?'
'No. Maybe just a common Wisp,' Roc answered while observing Maw.
Maw turned slightly. He sensed someone looking at him, but after noticing the bird Wisp, he lost interest and began looking around with sparkling eyes. Maybe those were his eyes… or maybe not. No one really knew.
After confirming that Zephyr wasn't lying, the man shouted;
"Jack! Come here!"
An awakened named Jack ran over from his post.
"Commander! What is it?"
"Bring this kid to the registration hall."
"Okay, sir!" Jack replied eagerly.
A possible Wisp Holder it was rare to encounter one, which explained his excitement and enthusiasm
"This way. Follow me."
Zephyr nodded.
As they walked, Jack spoke.
"So, how was the experience? Oh, by the way, my name is Jack."
"Uh… my name is Zephyr. I'd rather not say, but it was hell."
"Oh… okay." Jack understood the meaning behind his refusal. Why would anyone share such experiences with a stranger? It was a foolish question.
"Can I ask something?" Zephyr said.
"Yeah, what is it?"
"Can I join any Clan if I become an official Wisper?"
Zephyr already had an idea of the answer, but he wanted confirmation.
He only knew rumors and common knowledge.
Living in the outskirts didn't offer much opportunity to learn. Why would anyone prioritize knowledge when survival itself was a struggle?
"Typical outskirt rat…" Jack muttered.
Zephyr heard it but didn't care.
"Yeah, you can join a Clan but only if you have what it takes. After becoming an official Wisper, you'll be admitted to a school governed by the Great Clans and the Council." He said while walking. He then continued
"The school's purpose is to scout promising individuals and strengthen the clans. Scions and heirs also attend not just to build relationships, but because of hidden agendas. You probably understand that."
"This is just basic information. You'll learn more once you become a real Wisper."
Zephyr nodded, confirming his thoughts. Maybe he would join a Clan… or maybe not. Time would tell.
"Ah, we've arrived. This is the Registration Hall." Jack said
It was a simple structure, yet the intricate carvings on its doors made it stand out. The combination of simplicity and detail gave it an elegant appeal. Above the entrance, the words Registration Hall were engraved.
"It smells like money…" Zephyr muttered.
"Hehe, what do we have here, Zep? Maybe it's interesting enough," Maw said.
"Yeah, I hope so," Zephyr replied.
"Hurry up," Jack urged after noticing Zephyr lost in thought.
Zephyr followed.
Jack pushed the door open.
Inside, the hall was simple—plain white marble floors, wooden chairs, and a modest counter. The two walked toward it.
"Hey, Lily. Long time no see."
"Oh, Jack. A new Wisp Holder?"
"Yeah. Commander Rock told me to bring the boy here." He gestured toward Zephyr.
"Zephyr, nice meeting you, but I've got to go," Jack said.
"Yeah, thanks for guiding me," Zephyr replied.
After saying his farewell, Jack left.
"Say my regards to Commander Rock," Lily called out.
"Sure!" Jack answered as he walked away.
After a few formalities, Lily instructed Zephyr to input his information into the screen.
Zephyr complied and began filling it out—though only limited details, as expected from someone from the outskirts.
"So, your name is Zephyr?" Lily asked.
He nodded.
"Alright. You already know that you can't register unless you're bonded with your Wisp, right?"
He nodded again.
"Good. That saves us time." She continued writing.
"You'll be given three hours to form a bond. It may seem short, but it's the standard time for everyone."
"Okay," Zephyr replied, glancing at Maw, who was floating nearby.
"I'll assign you a room. Use this key to open it," Lily said, handing him a simple key.
After receiving it, Zephyr headed toward the room assigned to him.