Chapter 8: Legendary!!!

As Steven walked into the examination room, he couldn't help but notice the array of devices and instruments awaiting his interaction. From strength and speed assessment tools to complex mechanisms he couldn't quite fathom the purpose of, the room was a bewildering array of technology, each gadget seemingly designed to test a different facet of an awakened individual's abilities.

The examiners, tucked away in a separate observation chamber, monitored the room through a series of cameras and microphones. It was a measure taken to ensure no interference or biased judgment clouded the assessment. They expected the usual routine: the participants stepping up to each device, showcasing their abilities, and moving on to the next test.

However, it was evident from the start that Steven Notch was a different breed altogether.

"Mr. Steven," the voice echoed through the speakers, interrupted swiftly by Steven himself, "Please, call me Notch!"

His tone carried a certain self-assuredness that was undeniable. With an air of confidence that seemed to match his appearance—purple reptilian pupils, dark horns on his forehead, and intricate dragon scales—the man projected an aura of sheer dominance.

The examiners in the observation room exchanged surprised glances. The confidence exuding from Notch, even through the microphone, was palpable. They couldn't help but acknowledge the man's formidable presence despite the physical separation.

"Alright, Notch. Would you mind stepping up to the first instrument for the initial assessment?" the examiner's voice steadied.

Without a word, Notch casually sauntered toward the strength assessment machine, which awaited the incoming punch, ready to measure the force exerted. The room held its breath as he positioned himself.

With a mere flick of his wrist, Notch delivered a calculated punch, and the machine disintegrated before their eyes. Cracks formed across the walls, debris scattered, and all that remained was the display screen showcasing only two words: "Beyond Legendary."

Notch remained unfazed, but his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. "I knew I was strong, but this? This is insane! The control I have over this strength, it's exhilarating. And it's all because of that overpowering bloodline ability I've recently acquired."

As the examiners tried to make sense of what just happened, Notch proceeded to the speed-testing device, but this time, instead of a display of sheer strength, his approach was different. Standing still for a moment, he seemed to phase, briefly disappearing into an illusory state before the machine malfunctioned, displaying the same astounding phrase: "Beyond Legendary."

The series of instruments yielded similar results, each left with the same awe-inspiring assessment, and Notch continued to exude confidence with each test completed.

However, the climax of the examination awaited—the encounter with a caged creature specifically designed to test the willpower and courage of newcomers. The examiners had anticipated Notch's reaction, knowing the intimidating aura emanating from the creature often unnerved the participants.

As Notch approached the cage, his demeanor shifted, an impish grin playing on his lips. The examiners quickly voiced their concerns through the speaker, cautioning him against engaging the creature in combat.

But it was too late. With a powerful strike, Notch shattered the cage, and the creature—now free—charged forward, a menacing aura swirling around it. The air in the room turned heavy with anticipation.

Undeterred, Notch stood his ground, his stance unyielding, his expression haughty and confident. With a flourish of his arm, he extended it toward the creature, an invitation to a battle of epic proportions.

"Come, lesser being," Notch's voice echoed with a hint of mockery. "Our confrontation shall echo in the annals of legend!"