The city of Celesthaven was a stark contrast to the chaos gripping the rest of the world. Nestled in a peaceful valley far from the conflicts tearing Neo-Seoul and other regions apart, it seemed almost untouched by the darkness spreading across the land. High above its winding streets and quaint architecture stood a modest apartment on the top floor of a weathered building. Inside, a man leaned against an open window, the soft breeze tugging at his dark hair.
Capricon sighed as he watched the tranquil clouds drift lazily across the sky. The horizon stretched endlessly before him, the sun painting the heavens with hues of gold and orange. He sipped his tea—a ritual that calmed his soul—and allowed the serene atmosphere to anchor his thoughts.
Though Capricon lived a life of simplicity, he was no ordinary man. He was one of the Twelve Celestials, known to the world as the Zodiac. Among the twelve, he was known for his mastery of flight and his unparalleled swordsmanship, though few outside his circle of peers had witnessed his abilities. Despite his status and power, Capricon had chosen a life away from the turmoil, carving out a haven in the skies above the chaos.
A faint knock at the door interrupted his reverie. "Come in," he called, his voice calm and warm.
The door creaked open, revealing an elderly landlord carrying a small package. "Mail for you, Cap," she said with a smile.
"Thanks, Mrs. Yoon," Capricon replied, taking the package with an easy grin. "I hope your grandson liked the kite we made last week."
"He loved it," she beamed. "You're too good to us, Cap. Don't forget to take care of yourself too."
As she left, Capricon unwrapped the package. Inside was a weathered book—Constellations and the Art of Balance. A small note was tucked between its pages:
"Even the stars cannot avoid their fated dance. - Aries."
Capricon chuckled softly. Aries never stopped reminding him of his duty, even when he sought peace. As much as he cherished the quiet life, Capricon knew it was a matter of time before destiny would demand more of him.
***
Later that evening, Capricon practiced in his rooftop garden, the fading sunlight casting long shadows over the cobblestone paths. A simple wooden sword rested in his hand as he moved through fluid stances, each strike and parry imbued with precision and grace. His swordplay was an art form, a meditation that grounded him.
As the night deepened, Capricon spread his arms and leapt into the air, the wind immediately cradling him as if he were born to the skies. He soared high above Celesthaven, the world below reduced to a sea of twinkling lights. Flying brought him unparalleled freedom, a perspective on life few could ever understand.
***
Despite his powers, Capricon was deeply connected to humanity. He often helped the townsfolk discreetly, fixing rooftops, mending fences, or helping children retrieve lost toys from precarious places. His kindhearted nature endeared him to everyone who met him, though none suspected the depths of his strength or the burdens he bore.
Capricon carried a quiet wisdom, gained from years of observing the world from afar. He had seen the cycles of conflict and peace, the rise and fall of powers, and the resilience of those who persevered. Yet he chose to remain an observer, believing his role was to intervene only when the scales tipped too far.
***
One night, as Capricon returned to his apartment, he found Kuran waiting for him on the rooftop.
"You don't visit unless it's important," Capricon said, landing softly beside him.
"It is," Kuran replied, his expression uncharacteristically somber. "We need you, Capricon. The world is falling apart, and the Ophiuchus has awakened."
Capricon raised an eyebrow. "The Ophiuchus? So, the rumors are true."
"They are. And Lee Geon needs guidance. You've always been the best at navigating the balance between power and peace."
Capricon considered Kuran's words carefully, his gaze shifting to the stars. His peaceful life had always been temporary, a reprieve before the tides of destiny called him back into the fray.
After a long silence, Capricon smiled. "Alright, Kuran. Let's see what this Ophiuchus is all about. But I hope he's ready to learn to fly."
As Capricon packed his sword and prepared to leave his sanctuary, he felt a familiar anticipation stirring within him. Though his life in Celesthaven had been peaceful, the winds of change called to him. It was time to leave the quiet skies behind and join the storm.