Contestants Association

Simon's POV

"Ummm, is everything alright?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady as I glanced at the boy with those enormous tentacles sprouting from his back. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of unease. The boy's sudden defensiveness had me on edge, but I raised my hands in a peace sign, hoping to ease the tension.

"The name's Caedes," he replied, retracting his tentacles and visibly relaxing. I sighed inwardly, relieved that he wasn't immediately hostile.

I gestured to the sofa, indicating where I'd like him to sit. The boy's presence was a strange mix of tension and vulnerability. He seemed to be sizing me up, which was fair given the circumstances. I could tell he was still processing everything.

I settled onto the sofa, trying to mask my excitement with a controlled demeanor. It was fascinating to see someone with such a remarkable healing ability, and I was eager to discuss it further. "So, where is this place—"

"Simon," I interrupted. I could see the boy's curiosity piqued. "This place is part of the Domain of the USA, known as the Realm of Shrouding Mist in the Ancient God's Timeline. I found you at the edge of a forest near the Domain of Egypt, with minimal clothing and some injuries. I brought you here to the hospital to check on you and was impressed by your incredible healing speed."

Caedes listened intently, though his thoughts seemed to be elsewhere. I could sense that he was trying to piece together his current situation and possibly what he wanted to do next. I could read the tension in his posture and the guarded look in his eyes.

Simon's eyes darted towards Ralph, the 14-year-old boy who had been dutifully by his side. I signalled Ralph to give us some privacy, sensing that it was time to get serious.

The boy turned to me, clearly ready for more information. "Can you frame my identity or something?"

I nodded, but I wasn't going to offer anything without a price. "Nothing is free in this world. Even the strongest individuals must sacrifice something for their goals."

Caedes seemed indifferent at first, but his curiosity about the cost was clear. "Name your price."

I flashed a grin, knowing this was my chance. "Did you notice Ralph? His parents were killed during a demon invasion. He's left alone and dreams of becoming a hero, but he's too poor to afford a god's essence."

"Wait, a god's essence can be bought?" Caedes interrupted, clearly intrigued.

"Yes," I said. "It's rare, but sometimes found during excavations or mining, and sold at exorbitant prices. Ralph dreams of awakening his bloodline to save the world from corruption and conflict. He wants to join the Contestant's Association."

"Contestant's Association?" Caedes asked, clearly unfamiliar with the term.

I elaborated, "A Contestant is someone chosen by a god, inheriting their original talents. Those who pass the evaluation test and have a system are expected to join. The association maintains order among the powerful and supports the weaker ones. It offers missions, buys materials, and more."

Caedes seemed to grasp the concept, though he was eager for me to get to the point. "Just cut to the chase already, what do you want?"

I couldn't hide my satisfaction as I laid out my proposal. "I want you to join my raid team. We go to the other side and hunt. You're special, Caedes. I've seen your healing abilities and those tentacles. I believe you have much more to offer."

His reaction was less than I'd hoped for. He shook his head, "That is not possible."

I frowned, feeling a hint of desperation. "Hmmm? Why not? Why is it impossible?"

"I'm not a social person. I also don't understand this clan and party system yet," he explained.

I tried to clarify. "I'm not asking you to join my clan but to be part of my raid team. We go on hunts together. I'm certain you have unique abilities that could benefit us."

As I watched Caedes, I couldn't help but wonder about the extent of his powers and what else he might be hiding. This boy was more than he seemed, and I was intrigued by what lay beneath the surface.

'What does this kid have in store for me?' I thought, a suspicious smile curling on my lips.

***