Chapter 9: The Awakening's Prelude

Alexander stood outside his modest home, the anticipation of the unknown future looming over him like a shroud. The morning sun bathed him in its gentle warmth, and a cool breeze rustled through the trees, carrying with it a sense of change. Today was the day he had both eagerly anticipated and nervously dreaded – the day he would leave his familiar surroundings behind to embark on his journey to the prestigious Nexus Academy.

Unable to resist the urge, he summoned his trusty system interface. It appeared before him, its holographic projection displaying crucial information about his current state.

**System Interface:**

- **User:** Alexander McQueen

- **Race:** Half Vampire

- **Vampire Rank:** Unknown

- **Bloodline:** Massimo

- **Clan:** Unknown

- **HP:** 350/350

- **BP:** 200/200

- **STATS:**

- **Vitality:** 35/50

- **Strength:** 31/50

- **Agility:** 30/50

- **Endurance:** 39/50

- **Blood Energy:** 100

- **Mana:** ??

- **Natural Abilities:** Blood Manipulation, Regeneration

- **Awakened Ability:** ?? Yet to awaken

- **Bloodline Ability:** ?? Yet to awaken

- **Stat points:** 184

The numbers on the interface were a reflection of his relentless training. Over the past few months, he had pushed himself to the limit, honing his skills and improving his physical attributes. His body, once fragile and weak, had transformed into a vessel of newfound strength and resilience. The experience points he had accumulated allowed him to distribute his stat points more efficiently, and the proficiency in his skills grew gradually, albeit slower than he had hoped.

**Blood ray - 25/100% novice**: This skill was more enigmatic. It seemed to involve manipulation of his own blood, but its true potential remained locked behind the veil of inexperience.

**Blood blood - 30/100% novice**: This skill allowed him to create sharp blades of blood and launch them at his targets. It was a versatile skill, but he knew he had only scratched the surface of its potential.

The system had pointed out that his skills' proficiency increased slowly due to a lack of practical use. Alexander made a mental note to engage in more combat situations during his time at Nexus Academy to expedite his skill development.

As he perused his interface, he noticed another significant accumulation – stat points. He had amassed a considerable number of them, and the time had come to invest them wisely. His training had focused primarily on physical attributes, but he understood that a balanced approach was essential.

He deliberated briefly and decided to allocate his stat points strategically, investing four points into endurance. This choice was not arbitrary; he felt an unexplainable pull toward increasing his endurance, as if it held a key to something greater.

Upon making this decision, a system prompt appeared, surprising him.

**System Interface:**

- **Hidden Quest Complete:** The Strong Vessel

- **Objective:** Increase your endurance to above 40 points before awakening to contain the power awakened

- **Reward:** A 6 or 7-star ability will awaken

Alexander's heart raced as he read the prompt. A hidden quest? A reward of such magnitude? It was more than he had ever imagined. To think that his choice to bolster his endurance had unlocked such a mysterious quest filled him with excitement and anticipation.

He wasted no time. Determined to seize this opportunity, he allocated more stat points into endurance, pushing it beyond the 40-point threshold. The transformation was palpable; he felt more robust, as if he could withstand anything that lay ahead.

Now, with his endurance maxed out, he couldn't help but dwell on the prospect of awakening a powerful ability. His thoughts raced with possibilities. Perhaps this was the turning point he needed, a chance to finally surpass the bullies who had tormented him for so long.

As he waited for the vehicle that would take him to Nexus Academy, Alexander's heart brimmed with hope and anticipation. The journey ahead was shrouded in mystery, but he was now more prepared than ever to face the challenges and unveil the untapped potential within him.

Finally the bus had arrived as Alexander stepped into the vehicle, he joined the ranks of fellow students who were both eager and anxious about their new journey. The vehicle's engine hummed to life, and they began their voyage to Nexus Academy.

Inside the vehicle, a man in charge stood up, his commanding presence capturing everyone's attention. He cleared his throat before addressing the group. "Greetings, future students of Nexus Academy," he began with a warm smile. "I am Director Henderson, and I will be overseeing your induction into our prestigious academy."

With a practiced eloquence, Director Henderson continued to describe the academy's magnificence, detailing its rich history, illustrious alumni, and the countless opportunities it offered to those who walked its hallowed halls. As he spoke, Alexander couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement welling up within him.

However, Director Henderson's tone turned serious as he broached the topic of the upcoming examination. "Now, I must inform you all that our entrance process is rigorous and highly competitive," he said. "But it is designed to ensure that only the best and most dedicated individuals are granted the privilege of studying at Nexus Academy."

He went on to explain that they had one day of rest before the exam officially began, but before that, those who had yet to awaken their abilities would be given one final chance. It was a make-or-break moment; success would lead to acceptance into the academy, while failure meant the soldier's path or withdrawal.

The tension in the vehicle grew as students exchanged nervous glances. For many, this was the culmination of years of dreams and aspirations.

Director Henderson's briefing continued as he outlined the structure of the examination. "The exam itself is divided into two stages: the Physical and Ability stages," he explained.

"For the Physical stage, we will assess your strength, speed, and endurance. These attributes are crucial for any student of the academy, as physical prowess forms the foundation of our training. Be prepared to push your limits."

He paused briefly before adding, "The Ability stage, on the other hand, will test your mana levels, control over your abilities, and the range and effectiveness of your powers. Your awakened abilities will be scrutinized closely, as they are a testament to your potential as an Awakener."

Alexander couldn't help but wonder about the challenges he would face in both stages of the examination. He knew that his progress had been remarkable, but the Nexus Academy was renowned for its high standards.

As the vehicle continued its journey toward the academy, Alexander couldn't shake the mixture of excitement and trepidation that filled his heart. The path ahead was fraught with uncertainty, but he was determined to rise to the occasion, prove his worth, and unlock the hidden potential he believed lay within him.