Advin grappled with the weight of a decision that had kept him awake throughout the night. The mere thought of entering the Aurora Sentinels filled him with an inexplicable fear, the source of which eluded his understanding.
Approaching the window, he sought solace in the cool breeze that brushed against his face, easing the tension in his nerves. As he gazed outside, the soft hues of indirect sunlight painted a mesmerizing picture in the atmosphere, a testament to the tranquil beauty that surrounded him.

Despite his heavy-laden eyes pleading for respite, the ceaseless churn of contemplation persisted within Advin's mind. The struggle between the allure of the Aurora Sentinels and the unknown fear kept him suspended in a restless state, the room bathed in the ethereal glow of dawn's delicate touch.

Advin found himself entangled in a web of conflicting thoughts. Contemplating whether to embark on this new journey, he questioned his readiness and reflected on a turbulent past, acknowledging with a heavy heart that he had inadvertently placed the world on the precipice of extinction not once, but twice. Yet, amidst the weight of that admission, he sought solace in the understanding that these cataclysmic events were not born of his intentional actions. A sense of regret lingered, knowing that despite the absence of intent, the consequences of his abilities had reverberated globally.

Skepticism loomed as he wondered if the organization's invitation concealed a trap, their insistence on his involvement raising suspicions. Despite their familiarity with him, the rationale behind their desire for his affiliation remained elusive. The fear of potential consequences weighed heavily on his mind-fear of punishment or even the possibility of harm befalling him. As he considered the allure of becoming a B-ranker, a direct entry into the organization, doubt crept in, whispering that it might be an enticing but perilous trap set to ensnare him.

In a moment of frustration, Advin grappled with the dichotomy of the decision. The internal struggle between the tempting offer and the underlying suspicion intensified, leaving him with a heavy sigh as he mused aloud, "Such a profound choice. To say yes is to risk the unknown; to say no is to forfeit an alluring opportunity. A conundrum of destiny, indeed."

Advin succumbed to a wave of nausea, prompting him to forcefully close the window. He sank onto the bed, fingers entwined in his tousled hair, yearning for the solace of sleep.

As the clock's hands inched towards 9 am, Advin rose from his restless state. In the next moment, he found himself standing before the imposing gate of his residence, a silent plea for assistance echoing in his mind. The decision to seek help weighed on him as he pressed the doorbell.

A resonant voice echoed from within, a high pitch cutting through the air. Footsteps approached, hesitating upon reaching the door. "Who's there?" questioned the voice.

With a steadiness in his own voice, Advin replied, "Zac."
Zac, a name bestowed upon him by his aunt, held a poignant significance, mirroring that of her own departed son, who had departed this world at the tender age of 2. Despite being aware of his true identity, Advin chose to retain the name gifted by his aunt, sensing a profound connection as she likely saw shades of her lost child in him.

The entrance swung open, revealing Hiyono clad in casual attire, a surprising sight given the typical school hour. "What brings you here so early in the morning?" she inquired, graciously making way for Advin.

"I have some matters to attend to." Advin entered the house.

"I'm curious about their nature." With a playful tone, she added, "I must confess, a touch of envy lingers when I think about your freedom."

"Why?" questioned Advin, the living room unfolding before his eyes as he sought his aunt.

"You possess the freedom to journey without the burden of cost or payment," Hiyono sighed, taking a seat on the couch. "I find myself yearning for the ability to teleport, to explore the myriad places that beckon me."

Reflecting on the unintended teleportation to the wrong locations, Advin pondered the demanding nature of the technique. Unbeknownst to Hiyono, any lack of precision transformed it into a relentless source of frustration.

Advin inquired with genuine concern, "Did you decide to skip school today?"

"Yes," replied the other person, nonchalantly shrugging. "I simply wasn't in the mood."

"Enjoy your day then. By the way, any idea where Mom might be?"
Advin treasured his aunt's affection, resembling that of a mother, and found no neglect in her care. After years of referring to her as 'mom,' the shift to the conventional 'aunt' presented Advin with a subtle but challenging adjustment.

In the tapestry of Advin's memories, a particular incident stands as a persistent source of embarrassment, haunting him with every recollection. This uncomfortable moment unfolded precisely one year ago, coinciding with the restoration of his lost memories.

"Advin's voice trembled as he spoke, "Darrin died... He's gone... I killed him." His head throbbed intensely, making it difficult to draw in a breath.

In a haze of pain and confusion, he accused, "It's your fault. Why did you keep silent? If I had known the truth, I wouldn't have let anyone close!" The words spilled out without coherence, Advin himself struggling to grasp them.

"I realize now, you aren't my parents." His words pierced through them, evident in the pained expressions on their faces. "I've figured it out. You did it intentionally. You killed him!"

Such unfounded accusations earned Advin a stinging slap across his face.

"Steve!" Advin's aunt gasped, her voice carrying an undertone of shock and genuine concern as she saw him slapping Advin.

"His uncle, attempting to restore Advin's composure, inadvertently exacerbated the situation. "Do you despise me? Is that why you did this, because I'm not your own child?"

"Advin, my child, listen... we," his aunt began, but he abruptly cut her off.

"Fine, I'll leave. I won't set foot in this house again," Advin declared as he walked away. Despite the calls of his aunt and Hiyono, he remained resolute in his departure.

Acknowledging his own shortcomings, Advin recognized that he had behaved poorly. After three days, he returned home, offering sincere apologies for the pain he had caused. Due to the understanding of the psychological trauma Advin was going through, his aunt and uncle forgave him. Advin continued to regard them as his parents, recognizing the depth of their bond.

"Advin heard his mother's voice inquire, "When did you come?" He turned to meet her gaze, finding a perplexed expression on her face.

"Just a few minutes ago," he replied.

A raised brow accompanied his mother's next question, "Did you skip school?"

"Haha, yes, Mom, he did," chimed in Hiyono, earning a disapproving glance from Advin. Before he could respond, she departed, saying, "I completely forgot about indulging in my breakfast. Kindly, Mr. Advin, await my return until I relish its completion."

Advin's mother peered at him, her eyes stern yet concerned. "So, what could possibly be more significant than your studies?" she inquired, her tone carrying a weight of expectation. Advin couldn't help but recall how his mom's demeanor transformed into something formidable whenever academics were in question.

"Well, it's about..." Advin began, but his mother swiftly interjected, "Okay, let's sit down and have a proper conversation. But first, have you had your breakfast?"

Advin shook his head, prompting his mother to sigh. "When will you learn to take care of yourself? Go, freshen up with a bath. I'll prepare breakfast while you do that." With those instructions, she headed towards the kitchen.

After Advin completed his morning routine, they reconvened for the impending discussion. The aroma of breakfast wafted through the air as his mother looked at him expectantly, ready to delve into the matter at hand.

Advin's mother leaned forward, her gaze fixed on him. "So, what's going on?" she inquired, her curiosity evident.

Advin took a deep breath before revealing, "Actually, I received an offer from Aurora Sentinels." He proceeded to share all the intricacies of the proposition with his mother.

As he spoke, her eyes widened in a mix of surprise and concern. "And what have you decided?" she pressed, seeking clarity.

Advin hesitated, then admitted, "Nothing yet. Grandpa and you have advised against joining it." The weight of familial counsel hung in the air as they navigated the decision looming before him.

"Now that I've uncovered the truth, please enlighten me. I fail to comprehend why you intervened in my past decisions," Advin implored.

His mother met his gaze solemnly before revealing, "It's undeniable that your grandfather, Simon, laid the foundation of Aurora Sentinels. However, Zac, the organization has undergone substantial changes over the years. I refrained from discussing it, but you are the host of Okami. We harbored fears that it could pose a threat to you. Does that make sense?"

Advin nodded, well aware of the responsibilities that came with being a host. The life of criminals within the Sentinels, he acknowledged, must be arduous.

"Furthermore," his mother continued, "you lacked any recollection of the past. How could we, in good conscience, send you there with a blank mind, exposed to potential animosity?"

"Why have they extended such an offer? This is causing me considerable unease," Advin pondered aloud.

His mother's response was measured. "I cannot provide a definitive answer. It could be for better or worse," she remarked, her words carrying a sense of uncertainty. "Listen, Zac, you must grasp one fundamental truth. Venturing into that realm won't be a smooth journey. Hatred and sarcasm will be part of your path. Yet, you're a courageous soul, my son. You'll navigate through all of it and prove your mettle," she assured, offering a reassuring smile.

Eager for clarity, Advin sought confirmation, "So, can I join?"

His mother's response reflected a blend of acknowledgment and guidance. "I won't impede your choice. As a grown adult, you possess the autonomy to make your decisions. However, should you decide to embark on this journey, I would advise you not to allow anyone to diminish your worth. To achieve that, you must believe in yourself. Pursue your goals with determination."

"Thank you, Mom. I've reached a conclusion," Advin conveyed to his mother.

"Best of luck, then," she acknowledged, already aware of his decision. "Just remember, you carry the aspirations of those who hold high expectations for you."

Advin nodded solemnly. "I won't let them down."
Their exchange concluded, leaving an atmosphere charged with determination and a profound sense of responsibility.

☆☆☆

Advin approached the imposing entrance of the Aurora Sentinels Headquarters, its sleek, modern architecture standing as a testament to the organization's evolved nature. The entrance, flanked by stoic guards, parted to admit him into a cavernous lobby adorned with holographic displays showcasing the Sentinel's legacy. The hum of advanced technology and muted conversations enveloped the air as Advin stepped onto the gleaming floor. Striking portraits of past leaders adorned the walls, their watchful gazes seemingly echoing a legacy to uphold. Moving through the bustling corridors, he sensed an undercurrent of anticipation and purpose. The heart of the Sentinels' operations beckoned-a realm where he would play a pivotal role in saving the world from the clutches of evil, navigating the complexities of his new responsibility as a member of the Sentinels.

"Hey, where do you think you're going?"Advin heard a voice behind him, prompting him to stop and turn. A tall, muscular young man with blonde hair stood before him, boasting an angular, long face featuring a thin nose and deep blue, narrowed eyes.

"I've come to meet Yuichiro Hyakuya," Advin calmly informed the imposing figure.

The young man dismissed him with a stern tone, "This isn't a park. Schedule your meetings elsewhere. Now, leave."

Confounded, Advin responded, "I don't know what you're assuming, but it's not that kind of meeting. It's a matter that demands discussion right here." He spoke with confidence, though at that moment, he remained unaware of the identity of the person he was addressing.

He raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise flickering across his features at Advin's response. "What's your name, brat?" he inquired with a frown.

"Advin Damen," Advin replied, maintaining his confidence despite the evident scrutiny.

The man's lips curled into a smirk as he emphasized Advin's name. "Ah, Advin Damen," he said, amusement playing in his tone. "If you're here to decline Yuu's offer, then I'll permit you to go in. If not," he pointed towards the door, "leave."

Advin, puzzled by the stranger's authority, asserted, "Let me meet Yuichiro. I'll convey my answer."

The man's demeanor turned serious as he crossed his arms. "No," he declared firmly.

"Why?" Advin couldn't help but question, feeling a sense of defiance rising within him.

"Are you questioning me?" The young man raised his brows, his tone carrying an air of authority that left Advin momentarily unsure of his next move. It felt as if he had unwittingly challenged a monarch. Uncertain of how to proceed, Advin considered whether to wait for the man to depart or return on another day. Opting for the latter, he turned to leave.

"The stern voice echoed, "Good choice. Don't you dare step in here again," Advin heard him saying.

"I'll come back." Advin wondered why those words escaped his lips; sometimes, he regretted speaking at all. This was undeniably one of those times.

The man walked in front of Advin, making it challenging to meet his gaze, prompting Advin to look away. "You say you'll come back? I was letting you go; that was a favor. Otherwise, according to Article No. 50, do you know what your punishment would be?"
Advin was left perplexed by this mysterious Article No. 50.
"Do you know it?" The man's face grew increasingly serious as he asked again.

Advin, acknowledging that he had put himself in this situation, found no one else to blame. He shook his head in response.

"Why did you come here without knowing all 10 million rules? Entry requires full rule comprehension."

Advin felt the urge to roll his eyes.
"I think I should..." Advin began, but was promptly cut off. "You think?" the man interjected.

"Do you have nothing else to do, Frau?"

Both of them heard these words, and Advin's eyes fell on Arashi, who walked in their direction. A sigh of relief escaped Advin as he observed Arashi's arrival.

Frau smirked, diverting his attention to Arashi. "Seems your dad has come, boy."

Arashi rolled his eyes and addressed Advin, "Come with me."

Advin, finding this a welcome diversion, nodded in agreement.

"What have you decided?" Arashi inquired as Advin followed him.

"It's a yes," Advin replied.

"I see."

Advin, curious, decided to ask, "Who's that guy?"

"You mean Frau?" Arashi clarified.

So the name was Frau.

"Stay away from that guy. That's the least I could say," Arashi warned.

Even if Arashi hadn't warned him, avoiding that guy was precisely what Advin intended to do from now on.

Advin's curiosity got the better of him. "And what's this Article No. 50? I really want to know," he asked Arashi.

Arashi halted, seemingly reluctant to share the information. "There's a rule here. You can't ask questions from a person who's older than you." It appeared he was unwilling to divulge the specifics of Article No. 50.

"Are you kidding me?" Advin expressed his disbelief.

"You think we're that close?" Arashi retorted.

"But that's a pretty absurd rule," Advin remarked.

"Rules are rules, and you have to follow them, whether they seem nonsensical or not," Arashi explained.

"But..."

"This is the protocol around here. Speaking when someone older is talking is against the rules. Manners, you know? Adhere to all the supervisor's orders quietly. Once you become a part of the Sentinels, your life won't be under your control anymore. Well, it's Yuu's responsibility to brief you on this. The room is right here," Arashi gestured towards the door on the left side.

Advin found it amusing. Ayumi and the others were Sentinels members, yet they seemed lazy and careless. If the rules were as stringent as mentioned, how were they managing to thrive in this environment? There were rules, but were they not being enforced? Advin was intrigued and wanted to witness it for himself.

He glanced at Arashi and then knocked at the door. "Come in," came the order, and Advin followed it, entering the room.

The room was modest in size, with a desk and chair neatly arranged on the right side. Yuichiro sat at the desk, engrossed in his laptop. As Advin closed the door behind him and approached, Yuichiro remained focused on his work, not offering a single glance in Advin's direction. For the next ten minutes, Advin waited in silence, the atmosphere laden with a palpable awkwardness.

"Oh, it's you," Yuichiro acknowledged with a brief glance in Advin's direction before returning his attention to the laptop screen. Despite the lack of questions, Advin felt compelled to speak.

"I've decided to join the organization," Advin informed Yuichiro.

There was no immediate response, no change in Yuichiro's expression. After an additional five minutes, he closed the laptop, finally allocating a fraction of his attention to Advin. He observed Advin for a while before opening a drawer, rifling through the predominantly file-filled contents. Extracting one file, he closed the drawer and began flipping through the pages, pausing at a specific page.

"This document is the contract. Take your time to read through it before signing," Yuichiro instructed, handing Advin a few papers before settling back into his chair. Advin glanced at the papers, discovering numerous points outlined. A comprehensive list of responsibilities for Sentinels members awaited him. It took a few minutes for Advin to peruse all the details.
The contract stipulated that the organization wouldn't be held responsible even in the event of death while performing assigned tasks. Additionally, in cases of betrayal, severe consequences were outlined, including the possibility of a death sentence.
Advin harbored no intentions of betrayal, bringing a sense of relief. His genuine desire to safeguard precious lives fueled his willingness to work fervently for the Sentinels. Memories of days gone by flooded his thoughts.

Advin expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, "Grandpa, this site isn't enough. I want to make a more substantial impact on the world." Fighting through the OBC site felt insufficient for his ambitions.

His grandfather's response remained consistent, advising, "First, cultivate strength. Learn from others. Only then will you possess the ability to safeguard the world." This guidance echoed whenever Advin discussed his grand aspirations.

Despite the counsel, Advin found himself engaging in genuine battles. He even emerged victorious against formidable foes like Levin. Criticism from his parents, grandpa, and occasionally Sentinels members followed his selfless actions. Advin responded with a casual shrug.

"Do I demand a salary? I simply want to assist; that's all."

Addressing Sentinels, he affirmed, "The day your battles suffer due to my interference, I'll cease this habit. I assure you. I'm undertaking this willingly, ensuring no blame falls on you even if I meet an unfortunate end."

Fortunately, such a day never came when Sentinels lost a battle because of Advin's interference. The greater fear lay with his family, who often deterred him. Consequently, the number of his heroic tales was notably scarce.

As Advin scrutinized the contract, everything seemed satisfactory, prompting him to decide to sign it. Lacking a pen, he had to request one from Yuichiro.

"Excuse me, I need a pen," he dared to say.

In response, Yuichiro gave him a stare as if Advin had requested something as precious as his kidneys.
"You are a student, right?" Yuichiro inquired with a raised brow.
Advin nodded.
"A student should always carry a pen. Such details reflect one's attitude, indicating how responsible a person is," Yuichiro remarked, handing Advin the pen, who accepted it with a tinge of embarrassment.
Advin signed the contract and then returned the pen.

"There's another document for your signature. Attend to it later. Now, it's time for you to acquaint yourself with the other members of the squad," Yuichiro instructed Advin.

Advin acknowledged with a nod. As he agreed to meet the other squad members, a new chapter in his journey with Sentinels awaited.

☆☆☆

As Advin stood face to face with Ayumi and the others, a palpable tension filled the air. Their gazes clashed with a history of strained relations. Unresolved conflicts and unspoken grievances lingered beneath the surface, casting a shadow over the reunion. The atmosphere crackled with unease, revealing a past that had left them on less than amicable terms.

Yuichiro's announcement left them momentarily taken aback as he introduced Advin Damen with the words, "Meet your new teammate." Continuing, he added, "You already know each other, so save the introductions for later. For now, let me acquaint you with the system."

"Excuse me," Dawn raised her arm, "Do we really need to go through the details again? We've heard them before... sorry." She stopped abruptly, realizing Yuichiro's scrutinizing stare.

In that moment, Advin couldn't help but observe that someone's single stare was enough to control these seemingly arrogant individuals.

"Do you fancy being the one to recap all of that?" Yuichiro inquired with a touch of sarcasm, suggesting that Dawn could take over the task of explaining the details.
"No," came a timid reply.

"Then shut your mouth.

Dawn refrained from lifting her gaze once more.

"Clearing the entry test is a prerequisite for anyone seeking entry here, as you are all aware." Yuichiro spoke with authority,

"Exactly," Ayumi interjected abruptly, drawing a collective acknowledgment from the assembled members.

Yuchiro rolled his eyes before divulging the seismic shift in policy. "According to the recent amendments, the entry test system has been abolished."

A shared surprise rippled through the gathering, leaving them suspended in the unknown.

"Now, anyone can join the organization," Yuchiro continued, his tone carrying the weight of authority. "Rankings will be determined by their abilities. New members must document every facet of their existence, including a comprehensive history of their transgressions.

"Including their history of crimes?" Advin queried, grappling with the implications.

Yuchiro affirmed with a nod. "We shall evaluate whether their sins are forgivable. Even the shadows of the past deserve a chance. But make no mistake, Advin, there is no room for error in this organization. A single misstep, and the consequences are severe. Punishment, in most cases, is death." He paused, allowing the gravity of his words to settle.

Advin felt a chill creeping over him as the weight of the organization's uncompromising ethos sank in.

"Concerning the history of crimes, a designated individual will conduct the interview, maintaining utmost confidentiality. "

Advin found solace in the assurance that not everyone needed to be privy to their crime history. The weight lifted from Advin's shoulders; the prospect of walking amongst others with a concealed past no longer seemed insurmountable.

"Similar expectations extend to each of you," Yuichiro conveyed with authority. "Every detail concerning the Aurora Sentinels is held in strict confidentiality. Any breach of this trust will result in severe consequences. Not only will there be stringent punishments, but your registration will also face cancellation."

As others appeared disinterested, Advin couldn't help but empathize. The prospect of enduring a discourse on familiar details seemed tedious enough to evoke a yawn.

"Now, let's delve into the intricacies of the ranks," Yuichiro continued. There were five in total: A, B, D, S, and X. A-rank, the lowest tier, focuses solely on fundamentals with no assigned missions. B-rankers actively participate in real combat scenarios, handling relatively straightforward missions. D-rank missions present a higher level of difficulty. S-rank missions, the most perilous, pose life-threatening challenges. S-rankers also oversee simpler B-rank missions. X-rank stands as the pinnacle, overseeing S-rank endeavors and providing guidance to the novice A-rankers."

As Yuichiro elaborated on the classification of enemies, Advin absorbed the information. "Enemies are categorized as 1, 2, 3, and 4 - 1 for B, 2 for D, 3 for S, and 4 for X rankers."

He unveiled a sophisticated system designed to detect enemy power levels during emergencies. The system would then transmit signals to specific members based on the evaluated rank of the enemy, who would subsequently handle the threat. A brief pause followed.

The mention of this emergency alarm system triggered a memory for Advin, recalling a similar incident in their classroom where Levin had faced repercussions for it.

In a tone that demanded attention, Yuichiro delved into the intricacies of transfers within the Aurora Sentinels. "There are eight branches worldwide, each overseeing specific countries. Members have the option to request transfers, but be aware, the process is meticulous. Understand?" he questioned.

Advin, the sole respondent, affirmed, "Yes."

Moving on, Yuichiro emphasized the significance of promotional exams, distinguishing them from the entry test. "These exams are no jest; they occur annually at a fixed time. Whether to partake or not is entirely your decision. Now, regarding the rules," Yuichiro continued, "I'll provide you with a booklet outlining them all. It's imperative to familiarize yourselves, as adherence is non-negotiable. Disregarding the rules will result in consequences. Consider my words as direct orders. Disobedience will lead to expulsion from the organization. I hold the authority, and warnings are not my usual practice."
Yuichiro, sensing the disinterest in the room, took a momentary pause, casting his gaze across the indifferent faces before resuming his address. "Collaboration is crucial. All of you need to pay attention. I won't tolerate any disruptions caused by irresponsibility. Is that clear?"

In unison, a chorus of affirmations echoed, "Yes."

"Dismissed," Yuichiro declared, allowing the group to exit. "Advin, hold on for a moment," he directed, suggesting that Advin should stay behind.

A wave of relief washed over their faces as they departed, leaving Advin alone in the room. Seizing the moment, he diligently filled out some forms, all while seeking clarification on lingering questions in his mind. Yuichiro patiently addressed each query, unraveling additional intricacies of the organization's operations in the process.

A new odyssey had commenced, bringing forth novel trials, unexplored adventures, and the prospect of an entirely different life. Advin, fueled by unwavering determination, embraced the readiness to confront every challenge in his path. However, little did he fathom that a foreboding incident lurked on the horizon, poised to unfold and alter the course of this nascent journey - a suspenseful culmination to the initial volume of a captivating series.