Chapter 3: The Academy of Awakened Ones**
The Awakened Academy was an impressive and intimidating place. The grey stone walls seemed to absorb the light, and the corridors were silent, as if the building itself was holding its breath. Kaden followed Kaela through a labyrinth of passages, his steps echoing on the marble floor.
They finally arrived at a large carved wooden door. Kaela pushed the door open, revealing a spacious room filled with books, maps and strange artifacts. In the center of the room stood an elderly man with gray hair and piercing eyes.
"Here's the director," said Kaela, introducing Kaden.
The director looked up from his office, studying Kaden with a scrutinizing look." So it's him," he said at last, his deep and calm voice.
Kaden felt uncomfortable under that gaze. He felt that the director could see through him, read his thoughts, his fears, his doubts.
"Three gifts," continued the director, rising. "Zeus, Osiris, Hel. A unique combination. Powerful. But also dangerous."
Kaden frowned." Dangerous? For whom?"
The manager smiled slightly." For you, of course. Divine gifts are not gifts, Kaden. These are trials. And you have three."
Kaela crossed her arms, looking serious." He needs training. Lots of training. Otherwise, his powers will consume him."
The manager nodded." That's why he's here. But before we get started, there's one thing you need to understand, Kaden."
Kaden looked at him, waiting for what to happen next.
"The Towers are not just a threat," said the director as he approached. "They are a test. A test for humanity. And you, with your three gifts, could be the key to defeating them. Or their biggest victim."
Kaden felt a weight on his shoulders. He didn't know if he was ready for all this. But he knew one thing: he had no choice.
"So where do I start?" he asked, trying to mask his nervousness.
The director smiled again." At the beginning, of course."