Deep within the lush, mysterious forest of Giantu, a humble horse-drawn carriage creaked its way along a dirt road carpeted with fallen leaves. The wooden wheels groaned in protest, occasionally sinking into damp soil, while two young riders flanked it on horseback.
Edward, a ten-year-old boy, sat proudly on the back of Shadow—a magnificent black stallion with glossy fur and sharp, intelligent eyes. Shadow's stride was powerful and steady, as if mirroring the excitement surging through his young master's heart. Beside him rode Silvia, his seventeen-year-old sister, graceful atop Misty, a white mare with calm, crystalline eyes that contrasted Edward's restless energy.
This was not an ordinary day. For Edward, it was the day that would be etched into his memory forever. Today, he would attend the Mana Awakening Ceremony in the city of Lingbert—a sacred tradition marking the first moment when a child, upon reaching the age of ten, felt magic awaken within them. It was the true beginning of a mage's life.
"Silvia," Edward asked, his eyes sparkling with both excitement and nerves, "what did it feel like… when your mana first awakened?" His voice trembled, caught between eagerness and fear. His fingers unconsciously tightened on Shadow's reins.
Silvia turned her head and smiled warmly. The wind carried the tips of her long brown hair like gentle ribbons. "It was… extraordinary, Edward. It felt like warmth flowing straight from my heart, spreading through every vein, every breath. It was the moment I realized I was more than just ordinary flesh and bone. It was as if a door opened—and beyond it, power was waiting. You'll feel it too."
Her words only made Edward's heartbeat quicken. A hundred questions swirled in his mind. What kind of power will I awaken? Will I be like Silvia, an assassin who dances through shadows? Or like Lucy, our eldest sister, who can summon fire with just a flick of her finger?
The forest around them seemed to breathe with enchantment. Birds chirped from the towering trees, while shafts of sunlight pierced the canopy like holy pillars. Somewhere nearby, the faint murmur of flowing water added to the magical serenity of their journey.
When the carriage halted by a clear brook to let Shadow and Misty rest, Edward crouched at the water's edge. He gazed at his reflection in the shimmering surface: a boy with wide, innocent eyes, caught between childhood and destiny.
"Please… let me awaken a power that can help others," he whispered, almost inaudible beneath the stream's gentle gurgling.
Silvia approached quietly and laid a comforting hand on his shoulder. Her smile was radiant, warm like the sun that pierced the forest leaves. "You will, Edward. You're destined for greatness—I know it."
Their journey resumed, yet the atmosphere of Giantu shifted. What once felt tranquil now grew unsettling. The trees crowded closer, shadows thickened, and the wind carried a chilling whisper. Nature itself seemed to warn them.
And then—chaos.
From the underbrush, a dozen men burst forth. Their faces were cruel, their clothes ragged, but their hands gripped weapons—swords, spears, daggers. Their eyes gleamed with the hunger of wolves spotting prey.
"Hand over everything of value," snarled their leader, voice hoarse and sharp, "or your lives end here!"
Edward froze. His breath caught in his throat, hands trembling on Shadow's reins. The world, so beautiful a moment ago, twisted into terror.
Silvia leapt gracefully from Misty, her body poised between Edward and danger. With a swift motion, she unsheathed twin daggers that flashed in the dim forest light. "Don't be afraid, Edward. I'll protect you."
The clash erupted.
Silvia moved like living shadow, each strike precise and deadly. Her daggers whirled in arcs of silver, deflecting steel, cutting down foes with ruthless efficiency. Metal rang through the air, followed by the short cries of bandits collapsing into the leaves.
But they were many. Too many.
Sweat glistened on her brow, her breath grew heavy. She still fought with unyielding grace, but Edward could see it—the tide was turning against her.
His heart squeezed with fear… and then, something within him snapped.
"No more!"
Edward sprinted toward a fallen bandit. His eyes locked onto the man's discarded bow. He seized it, his hands shaking as he fumbled an arrow onto the string. His chest pounded like a war drum.
"Don't you dare hurt my sister!" he shouted, voice cracking yet fierce.
The arrow flew.
A sharp whistle cut the air—thwip—and the shaft embedded deep into the shoulder of a bandit creeping behind Silvia. The man screamed, stumbling back. The distraction gave Silvia the opening she needed: her dagger flashed, and her foe fell.
Edward stood frozen, bow trembling in his hands. I actually hit him…
But before the bandits could regroup, salvation thundered into the forest.
The sound of hooves shook the earth. Dozens of armored riders burst onto the road, banners of Lingbert fluttering above their heads. The sun caught on their silver breastplates, turning them into beacons of hope.
"Cut them down!" bellowed the captain, his sword gleaming as he charged.
The bandits' courage shattered. Their leader's eyes widened with horror. "Run!" he croaked. Within moments, the rabble scattered, weapons abandoned, their bodies vanishing into the shadows of Giantu.
Silvia rushed to Edward, pulling him into a fierce embrace. Her chest heaved, but her eyes shone with pride. "You were so brave, Edward. You saved us."
Edward's face burned red. His knees still wobbled, yet he managed a small, shy smile. "I just… wanted to help."
The soldiers gathered, ensuring the path ahead was clear. Under their escort, the group continued their journey. Slowly, the oppressive forest receded, sunlight breaking through in glorious streams. A fresh breeze carried the distant aroma of civilization.
And then—Edward saw it.
The city of Lingbert rose ahead, its grand walls etched with ancient runes, its towers spearing the sky. The sight stole his breath. His heart pounded with awe and anticipation.
Silvia touched his shoulder gently. "We're almost there, Edward. Prepare yourself. The moment that will change your life… is waiting."
They entered through the bustling gates, greeted by a storm of colors, voices, and life. Merchants cried their wares, children darted through the streets, and the spires of the Mana Awakening Hall loomed in the distance, regal and foreboding.
Edward swallowed hard. His hands were clammy, his chest tight. Every step felt heavier, as if fate itself pressed down upon him.
This is it. The beginning.
But as they approached the towering doors of the Hall, a sudden gust of wind howled through the square, chilling the air. The torches flanking the entrance flickered violently, their flames bending inward—as though something inside was sucking the very light from the world.
Edward froze.
And then—just before Silvia could reach for the great bronze handle—the door creaked open on its own. Darkness spilled from within, whispering promises and threats that only Edward seemed to hear.
His heart leapt into his throat.
"Silvia…" he whispered, eyes wide. "Something's… wrong."
To be continued…
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