A shadow on the sun

Chapter 8 part-1

Cain arrived at the edge of the domain raid, his heart pounding with anticipation and anxiety. The atmosphere was electric with the buzz of energy from the gathering of potential chaos variables. The area was a designated meeting point for the raid—a barren, desolate field surrounded by the faint shimmer of the domain's boundary, an almost imperceptible barrier separating their world from the otherworldly chaos within.

Michael stood near a sleek, black vehicle that had been parked at a distance from the crowd. His appearance was striking, his white hair stark against the dark of the vehicle, his features sharp and commanding. Beside him were his children: David, the stern second-in-command of the North America Domain Raiding Association (NADRA), and Charlotte, Michael's youngest daughter, the girl Cain talked to the night before. Charlotte's presence was unmistakable. At just nineteen, she had a reputation that transcended the boundaries of the domain raids—her skill, her beauty, and her demeanor made her a figure of awe and fascination in the world of energy users.

David, tall and solidly built, stood with a presence that spoke of disciplined authority. His white hair was neatly styled, complementing his serious, focused expression. His gaze swept over the gathered candidates with a professional, almost detached scrutiny.

Charlotte, on the other hand, was a striking contrast. Her presence was magnetic, a blend of grace and strength. Her long, white hair flowed down her back in soft waves, framing a face that seemed almost too perfect to be real. Her sky-blue eyes, however, were sharp and perceptive, betraying an intellect and strength that belied her youthful appearance. She wore a sleek, tactical suit that accentuated her form and provided the necessary mobility for combat. Despite her beauty, it was clear that she was no mere figurehead; her body radiated power and confidence.

The candidates, a mixed group of determined individuals, stood in a semi-circle, their eyes shifting between each other and the powerful trio. Michael, David, and Charlotte had yet to approach them individually. Instead, they addressed the group as a whole, their voices carrying an authoritative weight.

Michael stepped forward, his smile casual yet commanding. "Welcome, candidates. You're here because you have potential—potential to be the chaos variable that brings something new into my life. Yes, I am arrogant enough to say and do that. Today's trial is a test of that potential. You will enter the domain and face its challenges. However, our involvement will be limited to aiding with the final beast, the strongest entity within the domain. The rest is up to you."

David nodded in agreement, his expression solemn. "The domain you will enter is a dangerous place. It's been specially selected for its complexity and the strength of its inhabitants. You'll encounter various beasts, artifacts have been already cleared by the scouts, but the final challenge will be the true test of your worth."

Charlotte's gaze swept over the candidates, her eyes lingering briefly on Cain. Her expression was neutral, but there was a flicker of curiosity in her gaze. "You will each have to prove your strength and adaptability. Remember, only one of you will be selected as the chaos variable. This is your chance to show what you're made of."

She recognized me. I Wonder what she thinks.

The candidates exchanged nervous glances and whispers, the weight of the task ahead settling heavily upon them. Cain kept his distance, his demeanor cold and aloof. He had no intention of forming alliances or seeking aid from others. His focus was solely on impressing Michael and securing the chance to be trained. The prospect of becoming stronger, and the possibility of greater financial rewards, was his sole motivation.

The group began to file through the domain's entrance, a shimmering veil that distorted the world beyond. Cain followed, his senses heightened as he stepped into the unknown.