A Way Forward
Orion walked out into the back garden of mention, his eyes focusing on the tall tree standing tall within the lush greenery. He had always felt this to be his haven, a peaceful corner where he was safe from the whispers of the manor house and the expectations of his noble lineage. He folded one leg over the other under the canopy, leaning against the firm trunk, in lost in thought.
He understood how the world was run—how power determined one's position in society. In Shanzia, the ratio of awakening of element was 90:10. Only ten percent of individuals did not awaken their affinity for magic, having to live ordinary lives as merchants, farmers, or artisans. But those who awakened their affinity and ascended the ranks of cultivation were bound for greatness, wealth, and power. And among them, those who awakened dual affinities? They were one among a hundred thousand. An uncommon existence, one of envy and dread.
His father had instructed him to pursue a magic academy. His brothers had already in way of achieved high standards, and it was his time now. Yet Orion realized that merely awakening affinity is potentiality was not sufficient—only strength existed in this world. Lacking strength, he would be doomed to be under their canopies forever.
His fingers drew patterns on the grass mindlessly as he considered cultivation.
Cultivation required sensing and internalizing mana, the power that saturated the world. Mana was the basis of all magic, the life force that cultivators honed in their bodies. Cultivation was a slow and difficult process, demanding patience, commitment, and an unyielding will.
Shanzia's cultivation hierarchy had divided in seven ranks with nine sub- levels in each, nine stars broken into each of the levels: Novice, Apprentice, Adept, Magister, Arcanist, Mystic and Divine.
The majority never progressed beyond Magister, though Arcanists were the rarest, confined to only noble families of Dukes and Counts. Mystic-ranked cultivators inhabited the capital city, where Empress Shahzia, stated to be Mystic 9-star, dominated an iron grip.
And the Divine tier?
That was a secret. A myth. Nobody knew if it was ever possible.
Orion took a deep breath. I have a long way to go…
He straightened his spine, shut his eyes, and started to concentrate inward. Fire. Thunder.
His body responded almost at once.
A subtle warmth coursed through his veins, a bubbling blaze that curled in his chest like a dormant serpent. And then, flares of power arced at his fingertips, the sharp contrast to the flame's heat. Fire and Thunder—two opposing forces, yet each existed within him, waiting to be mastered by him.
Gradually, Orion shifted his attention deeper, sensing the mana flow mingling with his body. His body started to radiate a soft glow—red and purple light dancing around him in sync. The heat of fire blended with the shock of thunder, causing his limbs to tingle.
This was his power.
This was his way forward.
Eventually, he released the breath and opened his eyes. The glow faded, but the feeling lingered, reminding him of the potential power that lay within him.
"Not bad," he grumbled, curling and uncurling his fingers. "But more than magic, I need a something that support my magic – like a weapon – A Sword."
His mind went back to the dreams he saw from last few nights.
That warrior.
The one that battled against fear-stricken magical beasts.
He had no idea who the warrior was, but… the fighting technique, the movement, the sword—everything seemed so familiar yet distant. The way he used all aspects with such ease, the way his great sword sliced through foes like they were nothing… It was superhuman.
Orion tightened his fists. And think, "I need a weapon that is appropriate for me. Magic will not be sufficient."
In Shanzia, warriors used both magic and weapons—a balance of offense and defence. If he wanted to become stronger for real, he had to do that.
He got up, dusting off his robes. The sun was already setting. I should return.
Upon his return say he proceeds directly to the dining room where his mother and sister await him for dinner. The dining hall was cozy and vibrant, the aroma of freshly cooked food drifting through the air. Orion sat next to Lyra, with Aria and Liren on the opposite side of the table.
As he picked up his utensils, he cleared his throat. "Mother, Mother Liren… I've decided. Tomorrow, I'm going to the city Market to purchase a weapon."
Both women gazed up.
Aria smiled softly. "I see. That's a good decision."
Liren nodded. "I'll prepare for your journey accordingly."
Before Orion could say anything, Lyra leaned forward, eyes glinting. "Brother Orion! I'm coming with you!"
He arched an eyebrow. "You want to go?"
"Of Course!" She crossed her arms and pouted. "I won't fall behind! I'll become strong as well, like you!"
Aria smiled. "She's been saying that ever since you awakened your affinity."
Liren rolled her eyes. "She's really become stubborn, isn't she?"
Lyra scowled. "Hmph! You'll see! I'll get strong enough to protect both of you and my Brother Orion!"
The room sat in silence for a moment. Then—
Liren burst out laughing. "Oh, is that so? You'll protect us, little one?"
Aria chuckled, shaking her head. Orion couldn't help but smile at Lyra's confidence.
Lyra, flustered by the teasing, pouted even more. "I'm serious!"
Still smiling, Orion reached out his hand and ruffled her hair. "Alright, alright. Then let's both grow stronger together."
Lyra blinked before grinning widely. "Yes!"
The cheerful atmosphere made Orion feel grateful. Despite everything, despite how his father and brothers saw him, this family loved him.
After completing dinner, he retired for the night.
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The same dream came back that night.
The warrior.
The battlefield.
The hideous beasts.
And as Orion attempted to glimpse his face— an assault. A slash of steel. A surge of elemental power—
His eyes flew open.
The morning sun poured through his window, golden light illuminating the room in warm colours. Birds sang outside, announcing the beginning of a new day.
Orion sat up, massaging his temples. Why do I keep having that dream?
He breathed out, shoving the thought away.
Today was the start of something new.
He bathed and dressed in a new set of robes, leaving his bluish- white hair loose. A few strands fell across his forehead, accentuating his sharp features.
He gazed into the mirror.
Handsome.
Determined.
Ready.
Orion smirked slightly, rolling his shoulders.
"Starting today… I give everything I have."
With that, he exited his room, prepared to take the next step of his journey.