In the heart of Everglade city, nestled amidst a labyrinth of bustling streets and verdant parks, stood a small, unassuming two-story building. Inside, a small bedroom housed Asher Embers, who stood gazing at a picture of his deceased parents. His deep, piercing blue eyes reflected both determination and hidden depths, set in an angular face. Silver-grey hair, tousled and falling just above his shoulders, occasionally swept back from his face, framed his lean and agile build.
He remembered the day vividly, five years ago, when an officer came to their small building in Everglade city to deliver the devastating news: his parents, returning to the city, had perished in a monster rampage. After silently praying for their blessing, he finally retired to bed, staring up at the pitch-black ceiling.
Tomorrow was the Trait Manifestation Day, where everyone of the age 15 awakens their traits that change their life as a whole. Although he didn't have any high expectations, it cannot be said that he hadn't dreamt of being a powerful awakener. Even though he was brilliant at studies and combat in school, he purposefully faked his scores to maintain an average among his peers. It wasn't that he shied away from attention; rather, he preferred to work quietly, avoiding the jealousy and rivalry that often accompanied excellence.
At that moment, his phone buzzed. Asher checked it and realized it was his teacher informing the class about instructions for tomorrow. As he read the message, a mixture of anticipation and anxiety gnawed at him. After a while, he decided to sleep, and in his drowsiness, he glimpsed a vague symbol that he couldn't comprehend, quickly forgetting it amidst his slumber.
Little did he know, that symbol would soon alter his fate forever. The night outside was calm, with the faint sounds of the city lulling him to sleep. Asher's mind drifted, the events of the day melting away, leaving only the mysterious symbol imprinted in the recesses of his subconscious, awaiting the dawn of a new reality.