Initially, Zul felt a wave of intimidation wash over him as he beheld the entity he had summoned. It was a Great Horror, a mysterious figure whose piercing gaze seemed to penetrate Zul's very soul, instilling a profound sense of fear. The creature's expression was eerily still, yet its mouth hung slightly open, revealing sharp fangs that resembled glistening icicles. Its ears were jagged, frozen, and pointed, while its nose was elongated and sharp. The body of this being appeared to be made entirely of ice, with long, slender limbs that looked as if they had been meticulously carved. Its claws and feet were akin to icicles, causing the ground to freeze with each step it took. Atop its head, icicles formed a spiky hairstyle, all crafted from the same chilling ice.

The terrifying entity leaned in closer, invading Zul's personal space. A shiver ran down Zul's spine, causing the hairs on his arms to stand on end, as a chilling sensation coursed through his veins in response to the creature's ominous presence. Despite his fear, Zul mustered the courage to voice his request, saying, "Oh, fearsome being, I desire for my brother to become like me." Syclisk tilted his head, inching forward and looming over Zul, his gaze fixed intently upon him, "Why strive to lift him high when you can soar above the sky?"

Zul's expression shifted to one of perplexity as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Interesting perspective you have there, but what exactly can you do to enhance my greatness? I already surpassed him quite a bit." Meanwhile, Syclisk beamed widely, a cloud of frost escaping his lips as he replied, "Fame and wealth, you might attain, But with true power, there's more to gain. A simple soul can grant you might, Each month anew, your future bright."

Zul's bewilderment is evident as he inquires, "Powers? What kind of powers?" Syclisk extends his hand toward Zul's daggers, which become encased in ice as he explains, "With this power, your brother will cower, Repay me soon, as you tower within my power. If Scylisk's soul you cannot find, Then your own shall be left behind." Zul's eyes gleam with wonder at the formidable energy radiating from his daggers.

While Zul negotiated with Syclisk, Balzamir found himself in his family's library. He was perusing various books when he stumbled upon an ancient tome concerning the Great Divines. The book appeared to be neglected, covered in dust, frayed, and water-damaged, with pages that looked fragile and prone to tearing. Nevertheless, Balzamir persisted in his reading, handling the book with care and reverence.

The book revealed the story of how the Great Divines created the world of Rikros and its inhabitants. It described many of the races that were formed, beginning with the Colossics. These Colossics were entities composed of stone, moss, grass, and mud, brought to life through the infusion of life energy.

The narrative progressed to discuss the various races, yet what captivated Balzamir was the exploration of the people's sins and virtues, encompassing everyone in Rikros, including himself and the nobles.

Balzamir immersed himself in the ancient tome, meticulously examining each word. As he delved into the text, one Great Divine became curious, pondering the reason behind Balzamir's dedication to understanding the ways of the Great Divines. This Great Divine was Arcanicia, the embodiment of Magic. Arcanicia observed Balzamir continuously, through tempestuous weather and serene days alike. The Great Divine was particularly astonished when Balzamir attempted to offer a prayer.

Although the other Great Divines averted their gazes, Arcanicia remained captivated. His fascination was so profound that he manifested before Balzamir as a flickering flame, proclaiming, "Are you aware that playing with fire can lead to one's ruin?" Balzamir, bewildered and searching for clarity, responded, "I understand, but someone must wield it to illuminate a path toward hope." Arcanicia chuckled and inquired, "What do you truly know about hope, young noble?" Balzamir exhaled heavily, filled with a sense of defeat, "Not much, but I yearn to discover more about it."

Arcanicia flickers the lantern's flame, seemingly taken aback. "You want to learn about hope?" Balzamir tilted his head, confusion was evident in his expression. "Why is that surprising?" he replies, his tone sharp and defensive. The flame dances once more, causing Balzamir to feel a warmth spreading through his veins, accompanied by an uncomfortable itch. He then hears, "It's because your kind has never shown interest in hope before."

The flame danced once more, and Balzamir felt a surge of heat coursing through his veins as if a gift had been bestowed upon him. Arcanicia spoke, "I will bestow my blessing upon you, enabling you to safeguard yourself while you pursue the truths you desire. Use it wisely." Balzamir gazed at his hands, which were starting to radiate warmth, and with a hint of worry, he replied, "I am far from resembling my noble lineage." A smirk appeared on Balzamir's face as the lantern's flame extinguished.

As Balzamir received his blessing from Arcanicia, Zul stood outside conversing with the guards. He claimed to have overheard Balzamir stating his intention to set the estate ablaze and to murder him, just as he had done with the rest of his family.

The guards stormed into the estate in mere seconds, encircling Balzamir with their swords and spears at the ready. Overwhelmed with shock and fury, Balzamir felt a searing heat in his arms as he shouted, "What do you think you are doing? Provide an explanation immediately!"

The guards merely reacted by thrusting their spears toward his face. In an instant, flames erupted from his hands, making the guards recoil in terror. It was then that he heard Zul exclaim, "Look! He intends to set my family's estate ablaze!" Balzamir turned to Zul in disbelief, but it dawned on him that Zul had orchestrated this from the beginning, as he noticed the fear etched on his brother's features, accompanied by a wicked grin.

Balzamir devised a plan to flee with his newly acquired abilities and sprinted for his life, all the while hearing Zul commanding the guards to locate, apprehend, or eliminate him.