The young man appears

After the lavish party, Kayden felt compelled to stay. He had made a promise to Hannah and his grandfather Vargas, but there was also an undeniable curiosity stirring inside of him about this mysterious secret society.

"Come," beckoned Grandpa Vargas with a sly smile, motioning for Hannah and Kayden to approach him and his companions. The other elders were gathered around a large wooden table, their faces lined with age and wisdom. Elder Wood, Palm, and Jones were renowned members of this society, with stories that echoed through generations.

"It is an honor to meet you all," spoke Hannah and Kayden in unison as they took their seats at the table.

Grandpa Vargas introduced the three elders to Kayden and Hannah, who listened intently as the elders shared tales of their adventures and experiences within the society.

"So you are Hannah," said Elder Wood with a knowing glint in his eye. "Elder Vargas has spoken highly of you for years. You have inherited your mother's flawless beauty."

He then turned to Kayden with a curious expression. "And you must be Hannah's future husband?"

Kayden couldn't help but feel a rush of butterflies at the thought, while Hannah blushed but did not object.

"I have heard rumors about you, young man," remarked Elder Palm with a serious tone. "It is said that you possess an aura."

Kayden hesitated, unsure if he should reveal his capabilities. But ultimately, he decided to demonstrate by unconcealing his aura and locking it onto the four elders and Hannah. They could all feel the powerful energy emanating from him.

"Amazing," exclaimed Grandpa Vargas with awe. "Your aura surpasses even that of Tyler's."

The other three elders looked on at Kayden like he was a rare gem, while Hannah's admiration deepened.

"To cut to the chase, I wish to know more about this secret society," stated Kayden, his gaze sweeping to the second floor where he knew the society members were watching. "I also know that you are a part of it, and I hope you no longer hide from us."

The young man, who had been concealing his presence, felt a jolt of shock course through his body. He quickly lowered himself to the ground in respect. "Young master, you are still here? This young man must truly possess impressive abilities to have located you," he said, leaving those around him speechless.

"Indeed, young man, you have greatly impressed me. I shall now answer any questions you may have," the young master replied calmly.

The young man then sat down with them and began to describe the secret society they were a part of. "As you know, there is a martial gathering taking place soon. The winner will earn the right to enter the world of aura-bearers."

"May I ask, Mister, what is the purpose of this secret society?" Kayden inquired curiously.

The young man's gaze turned towards Kayden, studying him before responding. "The secret society was formed by the nine aristocratic families in order to conceal themselves from the public eye. The commoners only know these families as the founders of the city. They hold a monopoly over all aspects of government and society."

"So what happens if we win and gain passage into the secret society? What becomes of us?" Kayden asked, not wanting to leave behind his loved ones even after earning such an opportunity.

"The first step is choosing a family among the nine to join. However, rest assured that it is possible to maintain your commoner life if you so desire. You will simply be given tasks and assignments to carry out in secrecy or you can also fight your way to the top." The young man finished with a knowing smile, leaving Kayden with much to contemplate.

The elders and Hannah stood before the young man, feeling a palpable pressure emanating from his words. They had always longed to join the elusive secret society, but lacking in aura, they knew they had no right to do so.

"I am a member of the powerful Santiago Family, acting as their messenger. It is my duty to keep a watchful eye on the public. When you join a family, you will be given a task. You must first begin as an ordinary messenger and work your way up. Only once you have gained strength in this role can you become an outer court disciple, followed by main disciples and eventually core disciples. And if you continue to commit yourself and earn a valuable place, you may even be promoted to head disciple."

Kayden felt small and insignificant in the face of such vast opportunities. He never would have imagined that he was just a commoner.

"The nine aristocratic families are as follows: Lee, Zamora, Pearce, Stein, Carter, Santiago, Walker, Price, and Owen." The names rolled off the man's tongue like a sacred chant, each representing power and prestige within their ranks.