In the depths of a void lies the colony of Elderspring, a vibrant community bustling with life amid the dark, labyrinthine caves. Bioluminescent fungi illuminate the surroundings, creating an atmosphere filled with a mix of anticipation and anxiety as the annual selection ceremony approaches.
In one of the homes within this colony lives Milo. His residence is warm and inviting, filled with the sounds of laughter and the savory aroma of stew simmering over the fire. The walls are adorned with handmade crafts created by Milo's siblings.
Milo is a kind-hearted young man, deeply connected to his family, with a strong desire to protect them. He is both optimistic and anxious about the future that awaits him.
His mother is nurturing and supportive, while his father, a former warrior, shares tales of bravery from the surface to inspire his children. Milo's siblings all idolize him; the younger ones see him as their whole world, while the older ones tease him from time to time, displaying the warmth of their love.
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Laughter filled the cozy home of Elderspring as Milo's siblings playfully jostled each other, their voices ringing off the walls adorned with their colorful crafts. The aroma of simmering stew wafted through the air, mingling with the warmth of the flickering fire.
"Ha! You call that a throw?" Milo's younger brother, Kian, teased, as he tried to toss a crumpled piece of paper into a makeshift basket, missing completely.
"You're terrible!" his older sister, Lena, chimed in, doubling over in laughter. "You need to work on your aim if you want to be a hero!"
Milo joined in the laughter, feeling the comfort of his family's banter wrap around him like a warm blanket. He cherished these moments, knowing that tomorrow would change everything.
As the laughter began to die down, Ronan, their father stood up, his expression shifting to one of gentle authority. He clapped his hands, calling for attention. "All right, everyone! Can I have your attention for just a moment?"
The room fell silent, curious gazes turning toward their father. Ronan's eyes sparkled with excitement as he glanced at Milo. "Tomorrow is a big day for all of you, especially for my brave Milo," he began, pride evident in his voice.
Milo felt a mix of excitement and anxiety as he focused on his father.
Ronan continued, "The selection ceremony isn't just any ordinary event. It's a pivotal moment for those who have come of age. And while it's a chance for everyone to step forward, I want to take a moment to talk about my son."
Lena and Kian exchanged glances, their eyes shining with anticipation.
"Milo," Ronan said, beaming at him, "I can hardly express how proud I am of you. Tomorrow, you'll have the chance to show everyone what you're capable of. And, of course, I hope you can obtain that special selection. It would be a remarkable honor, not just for you, but for our entire family and colony."
He leaned forward slightly, his voice lowering as if sharing a secret. "Just remember, no matter the outcome, we will be cheering you on. Your courage and determination have already made you a hero in my eyes. So, go out there and make us proud, son!"
Milo felt warmth spread through him as his siblings erupted in applause, their support washing over him like a comforting wave.
"Yeah, go Milo! You can do it!" Kian shouted, his voice filled with youthful enthusiasm.
"Just don't forget us little people when you're famous!" Lena added with a playful wink, her smile brightening the room.
Milo laughed, feeling a rush of gratitude for his family. "Thanks, everyone. I won't let you down!"
Enjoying the night before their colony's big day, the selection ceremony where the new younge adults of the colony will be assigned jobs for the rest of their lives. They soon had headed to bed, as the rest of the colony and leaving only the head councilmen left awake for their secret selection.
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The morning star filtered through the cave ceiling, casting a soft glow over the bustling colony of Elderspring. The air buzzed with anticipation as families gathered, dressed in their best attire for the selection ceremony. Milo stood with his family, heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves. The atmosphere was alive with chatter and laughter, but all Milo could focus on was the moment ahead.
"Milo! Over here!" a familiar voice called out.
Milo turned to see Zana, his best friend, weaving through the crowd, her vibrant goblinoid features standing out among the humans. She approached with a bright smile, her excitement palpable.
"Zana!" Milo grinned, pulling her into a warm embrace. "I'm so glad you made it!"
"I wouldn't miss this for the world!" Zana replied, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "This is your moment, and I can't wait to see you shine!"
As they gathered with the rest of their families, the Elders took their places on a raised platform, their robes flowing elegantly as they prepared to deliver the selections speech. The crowd quieted, anticipation thick in the air.
The head Elder stepped forward, his voice booming. "Welcome, everyone, to this year's selection ceremony! Today, we honor the brave young souls who have come of age and will take their first steps toward securing a bright future for Elderspring!"
Cheers erupted from the crowd, but Milo's heart raced as he tried to focus.
"Let us begin with the special selection," the Elder continued. "This is a rare opportunity, reserved for those who have shown exceptional promise."
The crowd hushed again as a young woman stepped forward, her nerves evident yet masked by a determined smile. The Elder called her name, and as she stepped up, there was a moment of silence before applause erupted.
"Congratulations! You have been chosen for the special selection!" The Elder's voice rang out, and the crowd cheered, celebrating her achievement.
Milo felt his heart pound in his chest as he waited, the suspense hanging heavily in the air. He exchanged hopeful glances with Zana, who squeezed his hand for encouragement.
"Milo, you got this," she whispered, her voice steadying him.
"Thanks, Zana," he replied, but he was still on edge as he watched the Elder prepare for the next name.
The Elder scanned the crowd, then paused, eyes locking onto Milo. "And now, we call upon Milo from the colony of Elderspring!"
The world around him erupted into chaos. His father, Ronan, who had been standing nearby, rushed forward, wrapping Milo in a tight embrace. "My boy! I knew you could do it!" he exclaimed, his voice full of pride and joy.
Milo's family erupted into cheers, their faces alight with happiness. Kian and Lena jumped up and down, shouting, "Way to go, Milo!"
Zana beamed at him, her eyes shining with pride. "You did it, Milo! I knew you could!"
Overwhelmed with emotion, Milo pulled away from his father, smiling brightly. "Thank you! I can't believe it!"
He approached the Elder, who stood with a kind smile. "Congratulations, Milo," the Elder said warmly. "You have been chosen for the special selection alongside a friend. You will both be leaving for the academy together."
Milo's heart soared at the mention of the academy. "Thank you! I won't let you down!"
"And remember," the Elder added, his tone turning serious, "the academy's true name is not what it seems. You are embarking on a path that will test your very essence. Prepare yourselves for the journey ahead."
As the ceremony concluded, the crowd erupted into cheers once more, celebrating Milo and the newly chosen townswomen. Emotions swirled around him—excitement, fear, and determination. He glanced at Zana, whose eyes shone with pride for him, and he knew that because of her, he would face anything that layed ahead.