Chapter 1: The Day of Awakening
A crisp morning breeze swept through the courtyard of the Veyron Estate, rustling the leaves of ancient oak trees. The golden rays of the sun bathed the stone pathways in warmth, but inside the grand halls, a boy sat restless, his legs swinging as he counted the minutes.
Kael Veyron was turning ten today. And in this world, ten wasn't just a birthday—it was the day of awakening.
His small fingers drummed anxiously on the armrest of the wooden chair. His black hair, slightly messy from tossing and turning all night, framed his bright silver eyes—eyes filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness.
His parents, seated across from him, watched him with different expressions.
His mother, Elyra, smiled warmly, though her sharp eyes held a trace of worry. "You look like you're ready to sprint out the door, Kael."
"I am ready," he declared, puffing out his chest. "I bet my awakening will be amazing! Maybe I'll have the strength to break a boulder with my fist, or—" He paused, his excitement faltering for a brief moment. "...what if it's not? What if I'm just...average?"
His father, Darius Veyron, a tall man with a commanding presence, let out a low chuckle. "Then you train, you learn, and you grow. Awakening is just the beginning, Kael. It doesn't decide your future—you do."
Kael nodded, trying to look serious, but his childish impatience made it hard. "Still, I hope it's something cool," he mumbled.
Elyra reached over, ruffling his hair. "No matter what happens, we'll be proud of you."
The moment was interrupted by a knock on the door.
A servant entered and bowed. "Young Master, it's time. The Elders are waiting."
Kael swallowed. His fingers clenched into fists as he stood up. His legs felt lighter than air—whether from excitement or fear, he wasn't sure.
He glanced back at his parents one last time. His mother's smile was warm yet tinged with something unreadable. His father's arms were crossed, his gaze calm, yet there was a rare softness in his eyes.
They weren't just watching him leave.
They were remembering.
—
Elyra's Thoughts:
"He's still so small… but he already carries such big hopes. I want to protect that innocence, but I know the world won't let him stay this way forever. Kael… no matter what your awakening is, I hope you never lose your fire."
Darius's Thoughts:
"The world isn't kind to those without power. Kael, this is your first step. I only hope you are ready for the weight that comes with it."
—
Kael took a deep breath and stepped forward.
The doors to his future had just opened.