In the past, humanity believed that demons and monsters were born from God's mistakes, which is why they had such grotesque appearances and ferocious, merciless natures. However, God did not turn a blind eye to these creations. He bestowed a divine blessing upon humanity to help them combat the ever-growing number of demons and monsters. This blessing, known as "Talent," was given to each human in unique forms, such as magic, swordsmanship, or survival skills. With this gift, humanity could resist falling into an era ruled by demons and monsters.
However, not everyone was granted a Talent. For reasons unknown, some people were born without it. These individuals often ended up as slaves to those with Talents, forced to serve and survive in a world fraught with danger.
In a remote countryside village surrounded by sprawling fields of fragrant grass and flowers, I stood under a large tree, diligently practicing my sword swings about half a kilometer away from the village.
"297... 298... 299... 300! Finally, I did it!" I shouted in excitement.
"Congratulations, Ren! You finally reached your goal!" A cheerful voice called out. A girl with ruby-red hair and eyes approached me with a bright smile.
"Huh? Alice, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be playing with the other kids in the village?" I asked, puzzled.
"They're all busy talking about the fortune-telling ceremony happening later today. Besides, listening to you complain while swinging your sword is way more entertaining," Alice replied with a playful smirk.
The fortune-telling ceremony was a ritual conducted when a child turned eight years old. A priest would serve as a medium to reveal the divine Talent bestowed upon them by God. This ceremony not only unveiled one's potential but also helped strengthen it. Most people received Talents related to daily life, but a lucky few were granted combat-related Talents. Those individuals were sent to the capital to attend a prestigious academy that guaranteed a better future.
As we rested under the tree, a large, bald man came running toward us, shouting something.
"You two! Hurry to the church! The priest has arrived!"
"Uncle Gonzo? But it's not even noon yet. I thought the priest was coming later today," I asked, confused.
"He finished his previous work early and arrived ahead of schedule," Uncle Gonzo explained.
Hearing this, I grabbed Alice's hand and sprinted toward the church, my heart filled with hope that I might receive a Talent related to swordsmanship and protect what was dear to me.
"Haah... Haah... Sorry, Alice. I got too excited and dragged you along," I apologized, catching my breath.
"It's fine... I understand," Alice replied, her cheeks slightly flushed.
"Alright, everyone! The fortune-telling ceremony is about to begin. May you all be blessed!" The priest announced as the ceremony commenced.
One by one, the children took their turns. Some were overjoyed, while others were disappointed. Finally, it was Alice's turn.
"Relax your mind, and don't worry about anything," the priest instructed.
Alice placed her hand on the crystal orb, and immediately, it emitted a blinding light, causing everyone to shield their eyes. When the light subsided, the priest's expression was one of utter astonishment.
"Incredible! This girl possesses the Talents of both a mage and an inventor. She might very well become a prodigy in the future!"
The crowd murmured in awe, and even I was stunned. When Alice came back down to join me, it was my turn to step forward.
I calmed my nerves, suppressing my excitement, and placed my hand on the crystal orb. But nothing happened. The orb remained unresponsive. The priest frowned and asked me to try again, but the result was the same. He then turned to me with a look of disdain.
"It's clear now. This boy has no Talent."
His words felt like a thunderclap in my ears. The world around me blurred as whispers filled the air.
"Unbelievable... He's the first one without any Talent."
"Poor kid. Let's hope he finds a kind master in the future."
Their words stung like daggers. Unable to bear it, I bolted from the church and ran home. Along the way, I heard people gossiping about me, their words echoing in my mind. Once home, I locked myself in my room, trying to calm down. Suddenly, someone knocked on the door and called out.
"Ren! Are you there? I need to talk to you!" It was Alice.
I shouted back, my voice filled with frustration and sorrow. "Go away! I don't want to talk to anyone!"
"Ren... I'm leaving for the capital. I promise I'll protect you from those who mock you," she said softly, her voice barely audible.
After calming down, I rushed outside to find her, but it was too late. The priest's carriage was already heading toward the capital. Guilt weighed heavily on me as I realized what Alice had tried to say before leaving.
"Don't blame yourself, kid," Uncle Gonzo said, placing a firm hand on my shoulder. "Being born without a Talent doesn't mean you're destined to be a slave. If you want to catch up to her, you just need to get stronger."
"Uncle Gonzo, do you know why Alice is going to the capital?" I asked, a newfound determination igniting within me.
"In five years, she'll be attending an academy for the gifted. Judging by your expression, I assume you plan to follow her?"
"Of course!" I declared.
"Alright then. For the next five years, I'll train you myself," Uncle Gonzo said with a confident grin.
"Thank you! I'll do whatever it takes to become strong enough to catch
End of Chapter1