Welcome to New Mr. Ten

The King, boomed across the room, clapping his hands together. "Well done, everyone! A most exhilarating display! It seems Alex here possesses the potential I so keenly hoped for. He may be young, but his heart is strong and his spirit unwavering. He has truly earned the title of the tenth!"

Their initial skepticism gave way to sincere admiration as a thunderous applause erupted.

Aesira, a playful smirk gracing her lips, gave Alex a curt nod, her earlier amusement morphing into a respect.

Gariel, still hovering a few feet away, brushed his wings back into place, his expression unreadable. Finally, he spoke, his voice surprisingly mild. "Fair enough, kid. You put up one hell of a fight. Though… I might need to restrain myself from underestimating everyone else now that I know even a newbie like you could've potentially ended me."