Not everyone attended the gathering. Seishan took her remaining handmaidens and left directly for the Song clan, while some wanted nothing more to do with the Dream Realm and disappeared without a word. Still, about 200 people stayed to hear Nephis's thoughts.
"Thank you for coming, everyone!" Nephis began. "I called you here to discuss how we should move forward. I want to make it clear—I have no intention of forcing anyone to follow my plans. But if you do, I will be grateful."
As soon as she said this, about thirty people quietly left. Those who remained listened in silence.
"As you all know, we are highly sought after. We are battle-hardened Awakened, and both the government and the Legacy Clans want a piece of us. Given this, it is highly unlikely they will let us remain independent. Seishan has already taken her handmaidens to Clan Song."
"My plan is to divide us into three groups. First, I will go to Clan Valor with those who choose to follow me."
Most of those present were surprised.
"I have already discussed this with Gunlaug. If you wish to follow him, he will take you to the House of Night."
The room remained quiet as most turned to look at Gunlaug. After a bit of grooming, he appeared even more mature and striking than before.
"Lastly, I know some of you do not want to join a Legacy Clan at all. If you prefer independence or wish to join the government, I ask only this—stay in contact with us. Kai and Effie will remain independent, so if you ever need help, guidance, or resources, reach out to them. And in return, if we ask for your help, please assist us to the best of your abilities."
"We survived hell together, and we must remain united. Chris promised me he would return. Given his situation, he will likely have to challenge a Nightmare Seed. The lowest-ranked one he can find is a Category Two. If he succeeds, he will likely return as a Master. We cannot afford to slack off."
"We must get stronger, grow more familiar with each other, and prepare to challenge our second Nightmares. Whatever path you choose, I urge you—team up with those of us here."
"And I am not only speaking to the fighters, the artisans and supporters are just as important. In the future, we will need your skills just as much. Even if it is difficult, push yourself."
"When you struggle, remember that Chris is suffering alone in a dangerous place—for our sake."
"I've said everything I needed to. If you have any questions, speak freely. And if you already know where you want to go, write your name in the appropriate place."
Some hesitated, deep in thought. But most had already made up their minds and moved forward to register their names.
Nephis - Clan Valor: Cassia, Tessai and 71 others.
Gunlaug - House of Night: Harus and 46 others.
Effie and Kai - Government/Independent: Sunny, Gemma, Kido and 33 others.
"Now that everything is settled, I urge you all to stay in touch. Form groups, train together, and support one another. If you have any questions or difficulties, reach out to any of us, and we will help however we can," Nephis concluded before turning to leave.
After the meeting, only the core group remained. They shared a meal, discussing their futures and making plans. Eventually, as the conversation dwindled and people prepared to leave, Sunny unexpectedly spoke up.
"I just want to get your opinions on something."
"Hmm? What's on your mind, doofus?" Effie asked.
"Before that madman threw me at the gateway, he told me something." Sunny paused. "He said my will to survive would never be enough. That it was pointless to live without something worth living for."
"Hahaha! You only tell us now that he tossed you around like a rag doll?" Effie burst into laughter, as if she had just heard the funniest joke of her life.
"Ugh, just answer me already."
"I'm no expert, but I think having a strong conviction—like our princess over here—helps you grow stronger faster," Effie replied, surprisingly thoughtful. "And when you're in a tough spot, that conviction can push you through."
"Yeah, I think so too," Kai added. "A goal, a purpose… it gives you direction."
"But why isn't survival enough?" Sunny asked.
"Think about it," Kai said. "If you were only trying to survive, wouldn't you already be strong enough?"
"I guess you're right… but how do I find that conviction?" Sunny muttered, looking toward Nephis.
"Don't look at me," she said. "You have to find it yourself. But for starters, you could try searching for your sister."
"Anyway," Effie interrupted, "if that madman gave Doofus such deep advice, he must've had something great to say to our princess too. Hey, Neph, what did he tell you?"
A brief silence followed. Then, with an unreadable expression, Nephis answered.
"He told me… he's in love with me."
"Pfuuuu—!"
Everyone choked on their drinks, staring at her blank face in stunned disbelief.