Altheria, a land where the skies shimmered with vibrant hues and magic coursed through the earth, was a realm of beauty and mystery. Legends whispered of dragons and phoenixes, creatures of immense power whose stories lived on in ancient scriptures. Although no one alive had seen them, their influence was undeniable-arcane magic, battle techniques, and spiritual energy were all derived from the remnants of their supposed existence.
In Northvale, one of Altheria's most renowned territories, a towering estate stood against the backdrop of the Azure Ridge Mountains. It belonged to Zane, the Divine Magic Emperor, a cultivator whose strength and wisdom were revered across the continent. Though feared on the battlefield, Zane was a devoted father to his only son, Valeriano.
Valeriano, a boy of ten, was unlike his father in many ways. Where Zane exuded confidence and authority, Valeriano was quiet and reserved, often lost in thought. His slender frame and youthful face gave him an innocent appearance, but his azure eyes hinted at a depth that few could discern. Despite being the son of a legendary cultivator, Valeriano's journey was only beginning.
The Soul Resonance Test
It was a bright morning when Valeriano stood in the grand hall of their estate, the walls adorned with ancient murals depicting battles and victories of past emperors. At the center of the room stood a pedestal bearing a crystal orb, its surface gleaming with an otherworldly light.
Zane, clad in his ceremonial silver robes, stood before the orb with his arms crossed. His presence commanded silence, and even the attendants who observed the ritual dared not utter a word. Beside him stood Lady Seraphine, her soft features a contrast to her husband's stern demeanor. She smiled at Valeriano, her gaze filled with encouragement.
"Valeriano," Zane began, his deep voice reverberating through the hall, "today, you will take the Soul Resonance Test. This test will determine the strength of your innate soul power-the foundation of your cultivation journey."
Valeriano nodded, his heart pounding. He had heard countless tales of this test from the servants and his friends in the village. For some, the orb glowed with brilliance, signifying extraordinary potential. For others, the light was dim, a reflection of their meager capabilities.
"Do not be afraid," Seraphine (her mom) said gently, stepping forward. "This test does not define you, my son. It is only the beginning."
Taking a deep breath, Valeriano approached the pedestal. He hesitated for a moment, then placed his small hands on the orb. The surface felt cool to the touch, and a wave of energy coursed through his body. He closed his eyes, focusing as his father had taught him.
The orb began to glow faintly, a soft blue light emanating from its core. The room fell silent as everyone watched intently. The glow intensified for a moment, but then it flickered and dimmed. The light receded until only a faint shimmer remained.
A murmur rippled through the room. The attendants exchanged uncertain glances, and even Zane's expression darkened. Valeriano stepped back, his hands trembling.
"Is it... bad?" he asked hesitantly.
Zane's face was unreadable, but his tone was steady. "Your soul power is low, Valeriano. Lower than average."
Valeriano's heart sank. He had hoped for a strong result, something that would make his father proud. Instead, he felt a wave of disappointment wash over him.
Seraphine knelt beside him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Do not despair, my dear. Many great cultivators began with humble beginnings. What matters most is your determination and hard work."
Zane nodded. "Remember this, Valeriano: talent is a gift, but strength is earned. Your journey will be difficult, but it is not impossible. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Father," Valeriano replied, his voice steady despite the turmoil in his chest.
"Good." Zane's gaze softened. "Then prove to the world-and to yourself-that you are capable of greatness."
The Mountainside Encounter
Later that day, Valeriano sought solace in the forested mountainside near their estate. The vibrant greenery and gentle rustling of leaves usually brought him peace, but today, his thoughts were clouded with doubt.
"Low soul power," he muttered to himself, kicking a loose stone down the path. "How am I supposed to become a cultivator with that?"
He wandered aimlessly, the cool breeze ruffling his dark hair. His father's words echoed in his mind, but they offered little comfort. He had always dreamed of becoming a great warrior like Zane, someone who could protect the weak and uphold justice. But how could he do that if he lacked the potential?
As he rounded a bend, a faint sound caught his attention. He paused, listening carefully. It was a soft, pitiful cry, almost like the whimper of an injured animal.
Curiosity and concern compelled him to follow the sound. Pushing through the undergrowth, he emerged into a small clearing where he found a young girl lying unconscious on the ground. Her clothes were torn, and blood stained her pale skin.
Valeriano's eyes widened in alarm. "Hey, are you okay?" he called out, rushing to her side.
The girl didn't respond. Her breathing was shallow, and her face was pale. Valeriano quickly checked her pulse-it was weak but steady.
"I need to help her," he murmured, glancing around for supplies. Spotting a nearby stream, he retrieved water in a makeshift container made from large leaves. Gently, he splashed the cool water on her face.
The girl stirred, her eyes fluttering open. When she saw him, her amethyst gaze filled with fear.
"It's okay," Valeriano said quickly, raising his hands to show he meant no harm. "I'm not going to hurt you."
The girl didn't respond but didn't try to flee either. She seemed too weak to move. Valeriano offered her the water, and after a moment of hesitation, she drank it greedily.
"Who are you?" she whispered, her voice hoarse.
"I'm Valeriano," he replied. "What's your name?"
Before she could answer, the sound of approaching footsteps made them both freeze. A group of men emerged from the forest, their expressions grim.
"There she is!" one of them shouted.
The girl's eyes widened in terror. She grabbed Valeriano's arm. "Don't let them take me!"
Valeriano stepped protectively in front of her, his heart racing. "Who are you? What do you want with her?"
"This is none of your concern, boy," the leader growled. "Step aside."
But Valeriano didn't move. "She's injured. If you're going to take her, at least tell me why."
The men exchanged impatient glances. "This is your last warning. Step aside, or you'll regret it."
The girl tugged on Valeriano's sleeve. "It's okay," she whispered. "I'll go with them."
Reluctantly, Valeriano stepped back, watching as the men escorted her away. As they disappeared into the forest, the girl turned back, her gaze meeting his.
"What's your name?" he called out.
But before she could answer, she was gone.
The Beginning of a Journey
That evening, Valeriano sat on the edge of a cliff overlooking the valley below. The memory of the girl's terrified eyes lingered in his mind. He clenched his fists, determination swelling within him.
"I have to get stronger," he said aloud. "Not just for myself, but to protect people like her."
The next morning, he stood before his parents, ready to depart for the Avalon Sect. The sect, one of many across the continent, was where young cultivators honed their skills and advanced their ranks.
Zane placed a hand on Valeriano's shoulder. "Remember, greatness is not determined by where you begin but by how far you're willing to go. Stay true to yourself, and you will succeed."
Seraphine embraced her son tightly. "Be safe, my dear. We're always proud of you."
As Valeriano left his home, he looked back one last time, the weight of his parents' expectations and his own ambitions pressing heavily on his young shoulders. He didn't know what lay ahead, but he was ready to face it.
Little did he know, his journey would not only shape his destiny but also uncover secrets that would change the fate of Altheria itself.