Inkbounds
Chapter 1: The Outcasts of Society
In the city of Eldertown, there existed individuals with unique sentient tattoos, each one different from the other. A young boy, concealed beneath the shelter of his hood, sprinted through the winding streets, pursued by figures holding magic-infused swords. Their cries echoed through the alleyways, "Catch him! He's an Inkbound! Kill him!" Inkbounds, feared by society for their otherworldly powers, were people whose sentient tattoos granted them extraordinary abilities.
"What have I done to deserve a life like this? If you're out there, God, please hear this worshiper of yours," the boy whispered desperately. On his hands, a crimson serpent tattoo glimmered, its runes inscribed with ancient spells. The boy darted into a narrow alley and vanished into thin air.
"Where did he go? He was right here a moment ago," one of the pursuers exclaimed in bewilderment.
"Alex, you shouldn't be wandering around you know how dangerous it is right ?" scolded his worried mother.
"Sorry, Mom."
"It's alright. Now, eat up. I've prepared your favorite meal."
"Really ? Thank you."
"Have you packed your bag for the academy?"
"I'll do it after eating."
As he finished his meal, Alex looked at his crimson serpent tattoo, its secrets known only to him and his mother. Later that night, he obeyed his mother's command to pack for the Imperial Academy of Spellcasters.
The following day, Alex departed for the academy, leaving Eldertown behind.
After a while he arrived at the academy, where teachers were preparing to administer the entrance test.
"It's been quite a ride," Alex muttered to himself.
"All right, everyone, attention!" said the headmaster. "Gather at the front gate for the affinity and spell proficiency tests. There are three rune colors: red, blue, and crimson. The minimum requirement to pass is blue."
Will Alex pass the test or will he get rejected ?
(To be continued...)
Author's Note: It was a challenging journey, but I hope you enjoy it.