**** [Billion's PoV]
It was the morning of the next day.
I stood tall, fully dressed, my clothes clean and sharp. North stood across from me, arms folded, watching with that quiet intensity she always carried.
I was ready.
Today was the meeting with the Emperor. A lot would be decided there and I needed to show up as more than just a soldier.
Yesterday had gone better than I expected.
After meeting North, I'd focused completely on the goals I had set. I hunted without pause, fought with full force, pushed my limits in every direction.
And now—
I glanced at my status.
[Billion Ironhart – Level 199]
One step away.
One level from reaching Grandmaster rank.
But that wasn't all.