In a world where everyone is born a beast tamer, Reyan Ardent was considered a hopeless novice. Since childhood, he had dreamed of becoming one of the strongest tamers, but the reality was far from his dreams. There was no royal bloodline, no secret techniques, and no legendary beasts waiting for him. The only thing he had was an unwavering determination.
Today was the most important day of his life: the First Beast Summoning Ceremony. Every sixteen-year-old would receive their first beast, which would be their lifelong partner. For most people, this was a thrilling moment, but for Reyan, this was his final gamble.
Hundreds of teenagers gathered in the square of Valtis City, standing in line according to their turn. In the center of the square, an ancient stone altar stood proudly, surrounded by a glowing magic circle. An old man in a purple robe stood there, overseeing the ceremony.
"Ardent Reyan!" a loud voice announced his name.
His steps felt heavy as he advanced. The people around him whispered, some holding back laughter.
"He won't get a good beast. His family doesn't even have a history of strong beasts."
"I think he'll end up with a weak animal like a shadow rat or a ground rabbit."
Reyan ignored them. He stood in the middle of the altar, closed his eyes, and felt the magic energy flowing through his body. Light swirled around him, growing brighter with his call.
"Come, my first beast!"
A blinding flash of light appeared in the air. Everyone held their breath, expecting to see a powerful beast emerge from the magic circle. However, when the light subsided, before Reyan stood a small creature with dark fur, two round eyes and a frail-looking body.
"That's... a shadow wolf?" someone whispered.
Laughter erupted from the crowd. "Shadow wolves are the weakest of beasts! They have no fighting ability and are even less likely to evolve further!"
Reyan stared at the small creature before him. Although it looked weak and unimpressive, there was something different in its eyes—a small fire hidden in the darkness.
He knelt down, looking into the beast's eyes. "I don't care what they say. From this day forward, you are my partner. And together, we will become the strongest."
The shadow wolf stared back at him, before letting out a soft sound and taking a step closer. At that moment, Reyan didn't realize that he had just formed a contract with one of the rarest beasts in existence—an existence known only in legends.
The journey of the underestimated beast tamer had just begun.