Chapter 1: The Gathering Clouds
Lloyd stirred from sleep as the pale light of dawn filtered through the cracks in the wooden shutters. Outside, the village of Eldralis was quiet, but Lloyd's heart was restless. He sat up, shaking the sleep from his eyes. This would be his last week before the test—a week that could change his life forever.
He quickly pulled on his worn tunic and boots before stepping outside. The morning air was brisk, carrying the earthy scent of dew-soaked grass. The village lay nestled in a valley surrounded by jagged cliffs, its isolation a shield against the outside world. To many, this isolation was a blessing, but to Lloyd, it felt like a cage.
Walking through the dirt paths, Lloyd passed simple wooden houses, smoke curling lazily from their chimneys. The villagers, though kind, often gave him cautious glances. He was the boy raised by Elder Renna, the boy who had no family, no origins—just a strange mark spiraling on his chest and an aura that felt different from everyone else's.
He made his way to the edge of the village, where the forest began. This was his sanctuary, a place where he could practice in peace, away from prying eyes. With a staff he'd carved himself, Lloyd began his training.
The movements were basic: thrust, parry, strike. He mimicked what he had seen from the older fighters in the village, but no matter how hard he tried, his attacks lacked precision. Sweat dripped down his brow as he swung the staff in a wide arc, frustration building in his chest.
"Still swinging that stick around like it'll make you stronger?"
The voice startled Lloyd, and he spun around to see Kain, the chief's son, leaning against a tree. Kain's smirk was infuriating, and the faint golden glow of aura magic around his arms only made it worse.
"Kain," Lloyd muttered, lowering his staff. "What do you want?"
"I came to see the competition," Kain said, stepping closer. "But it seems there's nothing to worry about. You don't even have a core, do you?"
Lloyd gritted his teeth. He didn't know how to respond. Kain wasn't entirely wrong—Lloyd didn't have the same connection to magic, spirit, or aura that others in the village did. But there was something inside him, something wild and untamed. He just didn't know how to control it.
"Don't worry," Kain continued, his voice dripping with mock sympathy. "You'll fail the test, but that's fine. Not everyone's meant for the academy."
Before Lloyd could respond, a distant bell rang out, its deep tone echoing across the valley.
"That's the summons," Kain said, turning away. "Better hurry, wouldn't want to miss the chief's speech."
Lloyd watched as Kain strode off, his aura shimmering faintly in the morning light. Clenching his fists, Lloyd followed, his thoughts racing.
The village square was already crowded when Lloyd arrived. Men, women, and children gathered around the stone platform at the center, where Chief Darrek stood tall and imposing. His silver-streaked hair and scarred face spoke of a life of battles, and his commanding presence silenced the murmurs of the crowd.
Beside him stood Elder Renna, her frail figure contrasting sharply with the chief's. But her eyes, sharp and piercing, held their own authority.
"You all know why we're here," the chief began, his voice carrying over the assembled villagers. "The test is in one week. For those of you who have turned fourteen, this will decide your future. Only those who prove themselves will have the honor of attending the academy in Soltara."
Excited whispers rippled through the crowd. The academy was a legendary institution, a place where the most talented individuals from across the continent honed their skills. For many, it was a dream.
"This year," the chief continued, "I will personally oversee the test. Each of you will face me in a duel. This is not just about strength—it is about discipline, control, and the potential to grow."
Lloyd felt a lump form in his throat. A duel against the chief? Kain was already grinning, confident in his victory. Lloyd, on the other hand, couldn't imagine standing a chance.
"The academy is not for everyone," the chief said, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "But for those who are chosen, it is a chance to leave this valley and make a name for yourselves. Prepare well."
With that, the chief stepped down, and the crowd began to disperse. Lloyd lingered, his mind swirling with doubt.
"Lloyd," a soft voice called. He turned to see Elder Renna approaching, her cane tapping against the ground.
"I'm not ready for this," Lloyd admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.
Renna placed a hand on his shoulder, her gaze steady. "You have more strength than you realize. The mark you bear is proof of that."
"But what does it mean?" Lloyd asked.
Renna hesitated, then said, "All in time, child. For now, focus on the test. Do not let fear hold you back."
Lloyd nodded, though her words did little to ease the storm inside him.