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The grand hall echoed with anticipation as Alaric's elemental affinities were unveiled – lightning alone. The announcement resonated, "Graded A for capacity, yet no innate abilities." The audience, hoping for the emergence of an extraordinary talent from the nation's leadership, was met with disappointment. Alaric's overall Asset Grade score of B left a bitter taste lingering, as whispers of unmet expectations circulated among the gathered nobles. A disappointed voice rose from the crowd, "A lightning affinity alone? I expected more from a scion of the Astreaus."

Post-ceremony, the grand hall transformed into a vibrant spectacle, adorned with decorations and filled with the sounds of revelry. The nobility and guests gathered to celebrate Alaric's awakening, raising their glasses in a toast to the young scion. The atmosphere shifted from the formalities of the awakening ceremony to the exuberance of the party. Alaric, adorned in the regalia of his house, moved graciously through the crowd, accepting well-wishes and congratulations from those eager to share in the joyous occasion. Amidst the festivities, Alaric couldn't help but sense the lingering disappointment from some quarters, a reminder of the weighty expectations placed upon him as a member of the esteemed Astreaus family.

Amidst the bustling ballroom, Alaric gracefully maneuvered through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries with well-wishers and curious guests. He responded to their congratulatory remarks with a polite smile, though his keen eyes were focused on finding his father. Spotting him engaged in conversation with the head of the Awakened Association in a secluded area of the hall, Alaric navigated through the elegantly dressed nobles to join them. As he approached, he overheard snippets of their discussion, learning about the recent surge in awakened talents across the country and the association's efforts to monitor and guide them.

"Father," Alaric greeted with a respectful nod, interrupting the ongoing discourse. Duke Astreaus turned towards his son, a warm smile breaking across his rugged features. "Ah, Alaric! Join us," he invited, introducing his son to the head of the Awakened Association, a distinguished figure from the capital. The head nodded in acknowledgement, "A pleasure to meet the young Astreaus scion. Your awakening has caused quite a stir, and I'm certain you'll play a pivotal role in our nation's future." Alaric, accustomed to such expectations, offered a modest expression of gratitude. His mother, the duchess, joined the gathering, her eyes reflecting pride and approval. "Alaric, my dear, you've made us proud," she remarked, a subtle emphasis on the familial responsibility he bore. "Thank you... Mother," he responded, a sigh escaping him as he contemplated the weight of his lineage amidst the congratulatory exchanges.

As the festivities continued, Alaric found himself drawn into a discreet corner by the head of the Awakened Association, away from the prying ears of the jubilant crowd. The association head, a shrewd individual with a keen awareness of the political landscape, leaned in to share confidential information. "Young Astreaus, the public has been fed a deliberate misdirection. Your announced grade is intentionally lower than your actual designation," he disclosed, his voice barely audible over the celebratory din. Alaric raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "You've been classified as a Tactical Grade Asset. This decision is strategic, meant to shield the true potential of our emerging talents from external scrutiny and potential threats," the association head explained, emphasizing the need for secrecy in the tumultuous realm of awakened.

Alaric, digesting the revelation, nodded in understanding. He was well aware of the intricacies involved in such matters. "I appreciate the precautionary measures, but why the Tactical Grade designation?" he queried, seeking clarification on the nuanced ranking within the Awakened Association. The association head offered a cryptic smile, "Your unique circumstances, Alaric, have earned you this designation. A Principality Origin and an array of potent attributes set you apart. We are navigating uncharted waters, and your role extends beyond conventional classifications." Alaric, while acknowledging the gravity of his situation, concealed a sense of pride at being recognized for the extraordinary nature of his awakening. 

Alaric, amidst the revelry, couldn't shake off the weight of the Tactical Grade designation. The crowd's cheers and laughter seemed distant as he contemplated the rarity and implications of possessing a Principality Origin upon awakening. The history books whispered cautionary tales of those with similar origins turning into unpredictable forces of nature. Sighing knowingly, Alaric grasped the gravity of the situation. With the privilege of direct access to his status, he was already privy to the reasoning behind the distinctive designation. It wasn't merely an acknowledgement of his strength but a recognition of the potential chaos that could unfold, a latent power that could be both a blessing and a curse.

The weight of his newly unveiled status pressed upon him, Alaric sought respite from the vibrant celebration. Turning to his father, he offered a polite excuse and requested permission to retire from the ceremony ahead of schedule. The Duke, understanding the complexities involved, nodded in agreement. Alaric, accompanied by Elara, skillfully navigated the winding halls of the manor. As they approached his personal study, he felt a sense of comfort, a sanctuary where he could delve into the depths of his newfound knowledge and contemplate the intricate path that lay ahead.

The hushed ambience of his study enveloped Alaric as he sought solace from the external commotion. Alone with his thoughts, he took a deliberate moment to collect himself. With a deep breath, he turned his attention inward, focusing on the mental image presented by the Universe's consciousness — the ethereal canvas that revealed the intricate details of his status. The soft glow of ambient lighting played on the walls, creating an atmosphere of quiet contemplation. It was a surreal experience, gazing into the cosmic mirror that reflected his newfound existence and the enigmatic journey that awaited him.

Name: Alaric Astraeus

Race: Human*

Age: 16

Titles: None

Soul Core Rank: A

Elemental Affinities: Lightning

Abilities: None

Attributes: Celestial Gaze, Mental Fortress, Lesser Ascended Physique

Heritage: None

Principality Origin: Abyssal Antireality

The brief look at his information left him cold. He did not want to believe what he was seeing. Something was wrong, He was pleased, but something was wrong.