Chapter 1: The Awakening Ceremony
Lyrien stood nervously in front of the grand auditorium, fidgeting with the hem of his uniform. Today was the day of the Awakening Ceremony, a ritual that marked the transition of young Awakened from adolescence to adulthood.
As he glanced around, Lyrien couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. The other students seemed confident, their faces set with determination. Lyrien, on the other hand, felt like an imposter.
"Hey, Lyrien!" a voice called out.
Lyrien turned to see his best friend, Arin, waving at him from across the hallway. Arin was a genius inventor, and his Essence allowed him to create innovative devices that could enhance or manipulate Essences.
"Hey, Arin!" Lyrien replied, trying to sound casual. "Ready for this?"
Arin nodded enthusiastically. "Born ready! I've been working on a new device that's going to blow everyone's minds."
Lyrien raised an eyebrow. "What is it this time?"
Arin grinned mischievously. "You'll see. Just make sure to stick with me during the ceremony."
Before Lyrien could ask more questions, the auditorium doors swung open, and a dignified voice boomed out.
"Welcome, young Awakened, to the Awakening Ceremony! Today marks the beginning of your journey as adults, and we are honored to witness this momentous occasion."
As the students filed into the auditorium, Lyrien felt his heart racing with anticipation. What would his Essence be? Would he be a powerful warrior, a skilled healer, or something entirely different?
The ceremony began, and one by one, the students stepped forward to receive their Essence. Lyrien watched in awe as his classmates demonstrated incredible abilities – summoning fire, manipulating metal, and even flying.
Finally, it was Lyrien's turn.
He took a deep breath, walked up to the stage, and placed his hand on the ancient artifact that would reveal his Essence.
The room fell silent.
And then, a faint hum filled the air.
Lyrien's eyes widened as he felt... nothing.
No surge of power, no rush of adrenaline, no sense of excitement.
Just... emptiness.
The dignified voice spoke again, this time with a hint of disappointment.
"Lyrien, your Essence is... weak. You are an Awakened Failure."
The room erupted into whispers and gasps.
Lyrien felt his face burn with shame.
He was an Awakened Failure.
A nobody.