Fen stood tall in the grand hall of the Council of Twelve. His presence alone silenced the room. The council members; all comprised of gods and goddesses, watched him with impatience eyes. Fen didn't flinch. His voice cut through the stillness like a blade.
"Ryan," he began, "has exceeded all expectations."
The room seemed to hold its breath. Fenrir's words carried weight. They always did.
"His progress is remarkable. His dedication is unwavering. But there's more than that. Ryan has a natural gift to learn all that we taught him in a fast pace."
He paused.
The gods exchanged glances. Some leaned forward, intrigued. Others stayed skeptical, arms crossed.
"His growth rate is unprecedented. In such a short time, he's mastered skills that take others decades. It's clear. Ryan is the one Chronos chose for a reason."
The mention of Chronos, the supreme god of time, stirred the room. Whispers rippled through the council.
"But potential alone isn't enough. Ryan needs a challenge. A test of his abilities. His first assignment will determine if he's ready for what's to come."
The gods leaned in closer now. Fenrir's tone is more direct.
"This isn't just about Ryan. It's about us. About the balance we protect. If he succeeds, it proves Chronos was right. If he fails…"
He didn't finish. He didn't need to. The weight of his words hung in the air, heavy and unspoken.
The council stirred. Questions began to rise.
"For now, Ryan's connection to the earth's energy is still raw, untamed. If he can harness it, he will be able to harness another energy, even to divine powers. If he can't…"
Again, Fen left the thought unfinished. The gods understood. The stakes were clear.
The room erupted into debate. But Fen's words were undeniable. Ryan's fate—and theirs—rested on what came next.
Aion leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Fen. "Fenrir," he said curiously, "tell us more about Ryan. His strengths. His weaknesses. We need to know what we're working with."
Ananke, seated beside Aion, crossed her arms. "Yes," she added. "If Ryan is to succeed as the heir of Time Emperor, leader of Guardians of Time, we must understand him completely. His potential. His flaws. Everything."
Fen paused, his expression thoughtful. He took a breath, choosing his words carefully.
"Ryan's connection to the earth is strong. His earth resonance is natural, almost instinctive. He doesn't just use the earth—he feels it. Moves with it. But that's just the beginning. Earth is his foundation. He'll grow. Learn more."
He hesitated, then continued. "Ryan's potential goes beyond the earth element. He's capable of tapping into divine powers. These are rare. Powerful. But they're also unpredictable. If he learns to control them, he could become something extraordinary."
Aion nodded slowly. "And his weaknesses?"
Fenrir's tone shifted. "Ryan's impulsiveness is a problem. He acts before he thinks. That could get him—and others—into trouble. His emotions run deep. Sometimes too deep. If he doesn't learn to manage them, they'll hold him back. Or worse, they'll be used against him."
Ananke crossed her arms. "So, he's strong but reckless. Gifted but vulnerable."
"Exactly," Fenrir said. "His earth abilities are just the foundation. If he masters his divine powers, he could be unstoppable. But he needs guidance. Discipline. Without it, his potential could turn into a liability."
Aion leaned back, his mind racing. "Then we'll make sure he gets what he needs. His mission depends on it. And so do we."
Viracocha nodded gravely. His expression was serious, his voice calm. "Agreed. Ryan's growth warrants his first assignment. The operation will test his skills, strategy, and teamwork."
The room went quiet.
Zurvan stepped forward. "Ryan has three tasks. First, he must go back in time with his chosen allies, and escort Earth Healer Eira to the ancient Oakwood Forest. Her safety is everything. Hostile forces will try to stop her. Ryan must protect her at all costs."
He paused.
"Second, Ryan must recover the Oakwood Crystal. It's a powerful artifact. It strengthens the forest's energy. Without it, the forest will weaken. The crystal is hidden deep inside. And it's guarded. Ryan will have to fight for it."
Zurvan's tone sharpened. "Finally, Ryan must restore balance to the forest. It's dying. The creatures that once protected it have turned dangerous. Ryan must stop them. If he fails, the forest—and everything it supports—will be lost."
The room stayed silent. The mission was clear.
Manu's voice was firm, his words carrying the weight of experience. "Ryan must show he can think ahead, stay in control, and work with others. This isn't just about him. It's about the team. The mission." He paused, letting the words sink in. Then he turned to Fenrir. "Make sure Ryan understands what's at stake. The consequences of failure. The gravity of this mission."
Fenrir met Manu's gaze, his expression serious. He nodded once, a silent promise. "I'll prepare him," he said. His voice was steady, but there was an edge to it. A determination. "Ryan's success will show Chronos's wisdom. It will reflect my guidance. I won't fail."
He turned away, already planning his next steps. Ryan needed more than just training. He needed to understand the stakes. The risks. The cost of failure. Fenrir would make sure Ryan was ready. Not just to survive, but to lead.
The mission depended on it. And so did they all.
***
Ryan stepped cautiously across the Academy's vast grounds. Ahead loomed the Water Tower. Instructor Nixie awaited him, her reputation as a master of Water Swordsmanship well-known among students and teachers alike.
The Water Tower stood tall, its surface glimmering with a soft, ethereal glow. Crystal spires punctured the sky, creating a dazzling display as sunlight bent through them, casting rainbows on the ground. The walls flowed with aquatic patterns. Entering the tower, Ryan was greeted by the soothing sound of gentle waterfalls, their melodies echoing through the air.
Inside, the training areas featured luminous pools of crystal-clear water. They illuminated Ryan's every move. Mist hung in the air. The energy of the water element thrummed around him, filling him with anticipation.
Nixie's sanctum was a sanctuary of knowledge. Shell-adorned walls held ancient tomes and leather-bound books. Her quarters radiated calm. Lyra herself was a picture of grace and strength, her black eyes shining with warmth and wisdom. Her long honey-gold hair fell softly down her back, framing her calm face.
"Welcome, Ryan," she said, graceful and strong. "I will guide you in the art of Water Swordsmanship. Your skills from the earth will provide a strong base for what lies ahead."