Unforeseen Variables

Valen, still processing the implications of his newfound freedom from fate's control, had one lingering concern.

The events involving Kael, a pivotal player in his life as the so-called "Protagonist," needed to be addressed.

In particular, the tragic incident that started Kael's path to power and revenge—the massacre caused by the failed Aetheris research project on beasts.

Before he proceeded with his long-term plans, Valen needed to know how much of Kael's fate would still be intertwined with his own.

"Nyx," Valen called quietly, his tone inquisitive. "Now that I'm no longer bound by fate, what will happen with Kael?"

"As I recall, the reason he saw the Aetheris family as evil had everything to do with the research. It was the failed beast control research… and the massacre that followed."

He continued, "The project conducted by the Aetheris family aimed at controlling Arcane Beasts—creatures who also uses mana, this project led to the event that will be known as The Night of Red Sky."

Nyx took a moment before answering, the familiar mechanical voice returning with precision.

While waiting for Nyx response Valen started recalling the catastrophe; The Aetheris family's experiments were designed to control the Arcane Beasts, beasts capable of wiping out entire armies.

However, the research backfired. Instead of gaining control, the experiment drove the beasts into a state of berserk madness, causing them to ravage Serendale, a town under the Count Eres's territory.

The beasts massacred 90% of the population.

Kael's parents, among others, were killed in the incident. Valen remembered how this tragedy became the catalyst for Kael's journey to power.

The grief and hatred had driven Kael to seek the truth, and he had eventually uncovered the Aetheris family's involvement, leading them to their eventual downfall.

Valen exhaled slowly. "That incident was fate-driven, wasn't it? The beasts, the attack, Kael finding out—what happens now that fate no longer binds me?"

Nyx's voice returned with a cool detachment. [Host is correct. The Night of Red Sky was indeed the event that sparked Kael's journey as a Child of Destiny.]

[However, since Host has gained the Voidborne Physique and Emperor of Nihility Bloodline, Kael's perceptions will no longer be manipulated by fate.]

[If Kael were to discover the Aetheris family's involvement, his judgment would not be guided by the heavens' influence.]

Valen considered this. "So, if he finds out about Aetheris Family involvement, he won't instinctively see me as the enemy?"

[Correct, Host. Kael's suspicions and hatred will be more organic, driven purely by personal experience and his choices—He will not consider those indirectly connected individuals involved.]

[This significantly reduces his likelihood of turning against you with the same intensity, as the heavens will no longer manipulate his emotions and decisions.]

[However, The Night of Red Sky will still happen. The Aetheris family's research is already underway, and the incident will unfold as planned.]

[The difference is that the host is not directly tied to the consequences as the designated villain.]

Valen's fingers tapped lightly against his thigh. It was a strange revelation. Fate had woven such a tight web around everyone involved in Kael's rise to power.

Yet, here he was, standing outside of that web, able to manipulate things in ways the heavens could no longer predict or control.

"That changes things," Valen muttered to himself, his mind already adjusting plans.

Without fate pushing Kael toward revenge, Valen now had more freedom to maneuver. It wasn't that Kael would be an ally—but he was no longer destined to be the enemy either.

Nyx's voice cut in, interrupting his thoughts. [Host should be cautious. Although you are free from fate's influence, this does not mean Kael will not oppose you should he uncover the truth, as his situation is still related to Aetheris Family.]

[Fate may no longer dictate your roles, but emotions and choices remain powerful motivators.]

Valen nodded in agreement. "Yes, but now, at least, I can control the narrative. I won't be forced into the role of villain. I can deal with Kael on my terms."

He stood, his expression resolute. "But those are thoughts for another day. For now, I have other priorities."

Valen knew that before he could properly deal with Kael or any other potential threats, his immediate concern was the completion of his new core.

That would be the key to fully unlocking his abilities and the vast potential hidden in his new energy—Void Essence.

For the next few hours, Valen focused on settling his newfound energy through quiet meditation and controlled mana absorption.

The Purity Arrays around his training room filtered out the remaining impurities in the air, but he no longer needed to rely on them.

His body naturally expelled the toxins, making his breathing technique far more efficient.

The night passed quietly, and when the first light of dawn crept through the window, Valen rose. Today, he had to speak with his father.

As Valen emerged from his chambers, Alaric was already waiting, his head bowed respectfully.

"Alaric," Valen said with a brief nod. "Prepare a meeting with my father."

Alaric raised his head and nodded swiftly. "At once, my lord."

Valen's mind was clear as he moved through the halls of the estate. Every step felt purposeful, his newfound control over his fate empowering him with a confidence he had never felt before.

—————————

Marcellus Aetheris, Valen's father, was seated in his study when Valen entered. The silver-haired patriarch looked up, his stern eyes softening only slightly at the sight of his son.

"Valen," Marcellus greeted him. "You're up early. I assume there's something on your mind."

Valen gave a respectful bow before sitting across from his father. "Father, I've found a new method of cultivation—something beyond what we've known before."

"However, it requires intense focus and time. I will need to enter seclusion."

Marcellus studied his son carefully. "A new method, you say? And what exactly does this entail?"

Valen was prepared for the question. "After losing my cultivation, I've found a way to rebuild my strength from the ground up."

"It will take time, but it will allow me to surpass my previous limits. I'll need to withdraw from most responsibilities during this period."

Marcellus was silent for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Are you sure this is the path you wish to take?"

"Yes," Valen replied firmly. "The results will be worth the time."

Marcellus let out a slow breath. "You've always worked hard, Valen. I respect that. If you believe this path will make you stronger, I won't stand in your way."

"Thank you, Father," Valen said, his tone steady.

Marcellus nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Very well. I'll ensure everything you need is provided for your seclusion. Take the time you need. But if something changes, don't hesitate to act."

Valen stood and gave a respectful bow. "Thank you, Father. I'll begin preparations immediately."

As Valen turned to leave, Marcellus spoke once more. "Valen, I trust your judgment. But remember—power means nothing if you don't have the strength to wield it. Make sure this time away is worth it."

Valen gave a faint smile as he left the room. "It will be, Father. I'm certain of it."

With his father's approval, Valen spent the next few days preparing for his seclusion.

Alaric and the other servants provided him with all the resources and supplies he would need, though they would never know the full scope of what Valen was planning.

Finally, the morning of his departure arrived. Valen walked to the secluded chamber prepared for his extended cultivation, the door sliding shut behind him.

As the final lock clicked into place, Valen sat cross-legged in the center of the chamber. His thoughts were clear, his mind already focused on the next steps of his journey.

With the world shut away, Valen began the long process of forming his new core.