"Gordon! Why are you late? The awakening ceremony is starting now!" Jessica exclaimed with urgency as she watched Gordon enter the awakening center.
Gordon shrugged, remaining silent. He had no desire to tell this beautiful girl that he had been tripped and beaten on his way to school. In moments like these, he wished he bruised more easily, hoping it might draw some attention. But this thought was fleeting; Gordon preferred handling his issues in his own way.
Becoming a beast tamer during the awakening ceremony, and perhaps discovering his own talent, would be his first step. Once he had a powerful beast, the bullies wouldn't dare trouble him anymore.
"Come on, let's get in line," Jessica whispered when she realized Gordon wouldn't explain what had happened.
Together, they moved to the back of the arena-style auditorium to wait for their turn to awaken. They had been friends since childhood, supporting each other through everything. Jessica had been his only friend who stayed by his side despite all his quirks.
The line slowly progressed. Occasionally, classmates would cheer if someone not only became a beast master but also awakened a special talent.
