tower of god axis

POV: Jahad, 135th Floor

We were enjoying a meal after clearing the 135th floor when a sudden tremor shook the ground beneath us. I was in the middle of a heated discussion with V about whether to continue climbing when a massive explosion erupted.

"Get down!" I yelled, watching as Arlen dashed toward V, tackling him out of harm's way. Annoyance bubbled within me; they were getting too close recently.

As I ducked behind a large boulder, I waited for the next explosion. When it didn't come, instinct pulled me forward. I stepped out cautiously and spotted a little girl with a tuft of white hair sleeping soundly on the ground.

Curiosity piqued, I reached down to pick her up. The moment I looked into her eyes, I was taken aback. They reflected an infinite sky, and a strange power radiated from her—something unlike any infant I'd ever encountered. If it weren't for my immense strength, I might have dropped her in surprise.

Just then, everyone rushed over. The girls froze, captivated by the child, and before I could protest, Yeon gently took her from my arms, cradling her.

"You didn't tell me you had a child!" she exclaimed, eyes wide with surprise.

Gustang and Traumerei exchanged glances, while V couldn't help but chuckle. "The future king of the tower sure has his secrets."

Eduan grinned, "Didn't expect you to have a kid first, Jahad."

Fuming, I snapped, "Shut up, all of you!"

A white rabbit suddenly appeared beside me. "Headon, what is it?" I asked, trying to regain my composure.

"The child you're holding is not an ordinary child," he said, his voice serious. "She's an axis and an irregular, like the creator of this tower. She can traverse the tower freely, without needing to take tests."

Concern washed over me, but before I could speak, Keke flashed a mischievous grin from behind his mask and vanished.

Silence fell over us, everyone's gaze fixated on the sleeping child in Yeon's arms. Breaking the stillness, she spoke up, her voice steady. "As the future king of the tower, I believe it's your responsibility to adopt this child, Jahad."

Everyone nodded in agreement, their smiles teasing yet sincere.

These bastards, I thought, my frustration simmering.