Rayan

"Our future would never be prosperous if you keep this attitude, child," said her father, as his thin arms folded toward his chest. It was hard to imagine this stick-of-a-man being called the Strongest Commoner. However, her father was never strong. "I dedicated my life to our family and wished you to do the same."

"All of Shon is my family."

"That's what you should tell the public, but never what you believe. The people also realize that Shon is a name rather than an entity. It is a symbol of strength and defiance. Whoever carries it is our blood."

"Then, the name dictates blood, not the opposite," said Rae with a smile as the priests started lining the table with food. "Have you heard about Ascent?"

Her father turned his eyes toward her as if the name was forbidden even between the two of them. He didn't say a thing until the priests finished presenting the food, and he raised his hand to dismiss them. Everyone left.