Chapter 1: Awakening in the Abyss

The world had changed.

At first, it was gradual—small anomalies, strange disappearances, and whispers of an unseen force lurking in the shadows. Then came the Awakening. Gates tore open across the skies, releasing creatures beyond human understanding. Some called them demons, others beasts from another dimension. Humanity was forced into a brutal war for survival.

Yet, amidst the chaos, a new phenomenon emerged—the System.

Only a select few awakened abilities, chosen seemingly at random. These people, called Awakened, wielded powers beyond normal humans—some could control fire, others manipulated shadows, and a rare few could even bend reality itself.

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For Kieran Vale, life had never been fair.

He was born powerless in a world ruled by strength. In school, he was ignored. In the streets, he was prey. Even among his own family, he was seen as a burden. But when his Awakening finally arrived… it wasn’t what he expected.

A voice echoed in his mind:

[Initializing System…]

[Warning: System Corrupted.]

[Reconstructing Core…]

His body burned with unbearable pain. His bones cracked, his muscles twisted, and something deep inside him awakened—something not entirely human.

When the pain subsided, a single message appeared before his eyes:

[Unique Skill Acquired: ???]

Kieran gasped, his hands trembling. The world had given up on him, but now… he might finally have a chance to fight back.