“THE TALE OF THE SILVER WITCH"

NARRATOR'S POV

Celestria wasn't just any world. It was vast, a tapestry woven with magic and the lives of those who held it - the Gifted - and those who didn't, the Siles. It was a world where the whispers of gods and goddesses echoed in the wind, where the air hummed with unseen energies.

Sunhaven, a bustling market town nestled in the heart of Westmark, pulsed with life. Merchants from across the Southern Reaches converged here, their voices a symphony of bartering and laughter as they traded goods, their stalls overflowing with the bounty of the land. The air was thick with the scent of spices, fresh bread, and the sweet aroma of blooming flowers. Sunhaven was a place of warmth, a haven in a world often shrouded in shadows.

In a quiet corner of a bustling cafe, a figure sat, a silent observer of the vibrant scene unfolding around them. A light wash denim jacket, worn and comfortable, draped loosely over their shoulders. A classic striped tee, navy and white, peeked out from beneath, tucked into the front of black skinny jeans. Clean white canvas sneakers with a minimalist design completed the look, their soles whispering against the worn wooden floor. The figure, lost in their own thoughts, blended seamlessly into the background, yet their presence emanated a quiet strength, a sense of calm amidst the chaos.

The figure sighed, a soft, almost inaudible sound that seemed to blend with the hum of the cafe. Their gaze drifted towards a group of men, their eyes lingering on them for a moment before meeting the figure's piercing silver gaze. Who wouldn't stare? Even amongst the men, the figure possessed an undeniable beauty, a delicate grace that was both captivating and unsettling.

Standing at a slender 5'7, the figure had short, silver-white hair, cut in a neat, boyish style that often fell into their eyes, framing a face that seemed sculpted from moonlight. His eyes, a piercing silver, reflected a depth and intelligence that belied his youthful appearance. They often held a melancholic gaze, hinting at a hidden sadness and a yearning for something he couldn't quite grasp. His features were soft, almost feminine, with high cheekbones, a straight and delicate nose, and full, slightly pouty lips. He possessed a gentle, almost ethereal beauty that made him appear younger than they actually were.

A wave of discomfort washed over the figure, a familiar tightness in his stomach. He stood, his build slender, almost delicate, with a slight frame that gave the impression of fragility, as if a strong wind could knock him over. He grabbed his suitcase, a worn leather bag that held his belongings, and quickly exited the cafe. As he walked, he couldn't help but notice the stares – curious, wondering, and even disgusted. He lowered his head, quickening his pace, seeking to disappear into the bustling crowd.

He navigated the city, searching for a place to stay. Luckily, he found a cheap dorm, just enough for his remaining funds. He sighed again, a weary sound that seemed to echo the weight of his journey. He looked around his new home – a simple room, a single bedroom, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a small living room. Just enough for him. He entered his room and began to unpack, placing his clothes in the cabinet, arranging pictures on the small table, and making the space feel a little more like home.

Exhaustion claimed him soon after, and he drifted off to sleep without even bothering to shower. The distinct chatter from outside his dorm room, located on the second floor, roused him from his slumber. He rubbed his eyes, the reality of his situation crashing down on him. He was in a new city, on the run, and alone. He needed a job, and thankfully, he knew where to go. He sprang out of bed, rushing to the bathroom to wash up. An hour later, he emerged, tossing his dirty clothes into a bucket. He opened his cabinet, sifting through his limited wardrobe, choosing an outfit for the day.

After half an hour of deliberation, he settled on a classic striped polo shirt in a bright combination of white and blue. He paired it with white linen shorts, relaxed and comfortable with a turn-up hem. His clean white leather sneakers, minimalist in design, completed the look. For a final touch, he opened his drawer and pulled out a pair of round sunglasses with a vintage vibe.

He grabbed his sling bag, stuffing in his pouch, keys, and other essentials. He stepped out of his dorm, the weight of his situation pressing down on him.

"Now this is the second day of me here in Sunhaven," he thought optimistically, but his shoulders slumped. "And I have to find a job immediately, or else I'm good as dead if I can't afford basic necessities."

He shook his head, forcing a smile onto his face, and began his journey towards the place he'd decided to try his luck. The Maharlika Guild, one of the most powerful and well-known guilds in all of Celestria. Home to the strongest and most powerful Gifted individuals, though he wasn't knowledgeable enough about it. He only knew that the Guild accepted Gifted and offered quests in exchange for rewards upon completion. That was enough for him. He decided to apply.

After two hours of walking, he reached the Guild Palace. He hadn't felt tired, distracted by the various establishments he'd passed, a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. He was now at the edge of Sunhaven, where the buildings abruptly ended, leaving him staring at a vast expanse of open land. He scanned the horizon, his silver eyes widening in amazement. He gasped, his mouth hanging open, as he finally saw it.

"I-is t-this the Maharl-Maharlika Guild?" he stammered, his voice barely a whisper, his eyes wide with wonder.

The Guild Palace of the Maharlika Guild was truly a magnificent sight to behold. A majestic structure carved from golden-veined marble and adorned with intricate carvings, it stood on a plateau overlooking a vast, fertile valley, a testament to the Guild's power and influence. The palace was a blend of ancient architecture and modern design, with towering columns, grand halls, and secret gardens. The interior was bathed in a warm, golden light that streamed through intricate stained-glass windows depicting scenes of nature and ancient lore.

"Wow," he breathed, his voice filled with awe. His silver eyes, wide with wonder, drank in the splendor of the palace, a testament to the power and magic that pulsed through this world.

Anxiety gnawed at him, a knot of worry tightening in his stomach. He paced, his mind racing with a thousand what-ifs. Lost in his thoughts, he didn't see the figure approaching, and bumped into them. He was only chest-high to the newcomer, and quickly stepped back, bowing deeply.

"I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to!" he said, his voice laced with regret.

The newcomer remained silent, their gaze fixed on the floor. They continued walking, leaving him alone. He straightened, his gaze following their retreating figure, a sense of coldness radiating from them. After a moment of hesitation, he decided to move forward, heading towards the entrance of the Guild. He knocked, and a Sile opened the door.

"May I help you?" the Sile asked, their voice polite but distant.

He smiled, trying to project confidence he didn't quite feel. "I'm here to apply to be a Guild member."

The Sile's eyes widened in surprise, but they nodded. "Oh, you are? Please, come in."

The Sile ushered him inside, leading him to the front desk.

"Please wait here for Natasha," the Sile explained.

He nodded, and the Sile turned to leave. But then, they paused, remembering something, and turned back to him.

"What is your name?" the Sile asked, their curiosity evident.

"Raine," he replied, a smile gracing his lips.

"Oh, alright then, Raine. I'll leave you to it," the Sile said, turning away and continuing their walk.

Raine was left alone, and he sat down, taking in the beautiful interior of the Guild. The gold motif gave the place a luxurious, classy ambiance. But there was no one else around except for him and the Sile. After a while, he decided to stand up and explore the area, which he assumed was the Guild's lounge.

As he examined the furnishings, he didn't notice the Gifted approaching.

"Are you Raine?" a smooth voice asked.

Raine froze, turning quickly. He stared, speechless, at the Gifted standing before him.

The Gifted smiled, introducing herself,

"I'm Natasha Carey."

Natasha Carey was an ethereal being, a vision of beauty that transcended the ordinary. Her face was a symphony of perfection, each feature harmoniously complementing the next. Her skin, as delicate as porcelain, glowed with an otherworldly radiance, captivating all who laid eyes upon her.

But it was her eyes that truly mesmerized. Like emerald jewels, they shone with an inner light, reflecting a depth of emotion and wisdom beyond her years. With a single glance, she could unravel the secrets hidden within one's soul, leaving one feeling exposed and vulnerable in her presence.

Her lips, soft and inviting, were adorned with a natural blush that hinted at hidden desires. When she smiled, it was as if the sun had emerged from behind the clouds, warming the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness it. Her smile was infectious, spreading joy and enchantment to all who were touched by its radiance.

Natasha's nose, delicately sculpted, added an air of refinement to her countenance. It was a testament to her noble lineage, an exquisite feature that set her apart from the rest. And her high cheekbones, elegantly defined, lent a regal air to her face, as if she were born to rule over hearts and minds.

As one's gaze traveled down her graceful figure, it was impossible not to be captivated by her presence. Her slender frame moved with effortless grace, each step a dance of elegance. Her posture, straight and poised, spoke volumes of her confidence and inner strength.

And her hands, oh, her hands! They were a work of art in themselves, delicate and slender, capable of commanding attention with a mere gesture. Adorned with exquisite jewelry, they became even more mesmerizing, reflecting the light with a subtle sparkle that was both enchanting and alluring.

She was a vision of beauty, a captivating blend of grace, power, and mystery. It was no wonder that Raine, standing before her, was speechless.

Raine swallowed hard, his gaze dropping to himself. In front of Natasha, he felt like nothing more than an indecent fool. He was a shadow, a whisper compared to her radiant presence.

He nodded, his voice barely a murmur. "Yes."

Natasha's welcoming smile didn't falter. "Then, would you mind accompanying me? I know you wish to be a part of this Guild."

"Yes," Raine managed to say, his voice still shaky.

He followed Natasha, his eyes darting around as they walked, taking in the rooms they passed. He saw various people, some bickering, some studying, others playing with their magic. He paused when Natasha stopped, her emerald eyes fixed on him.

"To become a part of this Guild, it's simple," Natasha explained, her voice soft yet firm. "You simply descend and find the one who will bestow upon you the Guild Mark."

Raine's gaze followed hers to the descending staircase, seemingly leading to an underground facility, a room, or something else entirely.

"Is this a kind of test?" he asked, his voice tinged with apprehension.

"You'll find out if you go down and see for yourself," Natasha replied, a hint of amusement in her voice.

Raine swallowed hard, his voice a mere tremor as he uttered, "Fine." He drew in a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves, and began his descent down the winding staircase. A chill wind slithered through the passageway, sending goosebumps erupting across his skin. He hugged himself instinctively, seeking warmth, the only illumination being the flickering flames of the torches lining the walls.

He had been descending for what felt like an eternity, the staircase seemingly endless. The air, however, had begun to change. He could now detect a faint, earthy scent, a whisper of nature that seemed to carry a strange, almost unnerving, familiarity. He couldn't quite place the feeling, but it tugged at his senses, a primal urge to both embrace and resist.

After what must have been an hour, Raine finally reached the bottom. He stepped onto solid ground, his feet finding purchase after a long, unsettling journey. A massive double wooden oak door stood before him, its imposing presence filling his vision.

He approached the door, his movements almost trance-like, and slowly pushed it open. He closed his eyes as a wave of blinding light washed over him. But he didn't stop, his feet continuing to move forward, guided by an unseen force. He could hear the resounding thud of the heavy door closing behind him.

After a moment, Raine cautiously opened his eyes, his molten silver eyes adjusting to the brilliant light. His jaw dropped, and he instinctively covered his mouth with his hand, stunned by the beauty that unfolded before him.

Sunlight, filtered through a canopy of ancient trees, dappled the mossy forest floor with an ethereal glow. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, a symphony of birdsong filling the silence. It was a scene of breathtaking tranquility, a sanctuary of peace and magic.

A winding path, paved with smooth, moss-covered stones, led deeper into the grove. It meandered between towering trees, their gnarled branches reaching towards the heavens like supplicating arms. Vines, thick as pythons, draped themselves over the trunks, their emerald leaves shimmering in the sunlight.

Raine, his jaw agape, expressed his amazement, "How can such a place exist inside the Guild Palace?"

He continued walking, following the path, until he reached the heart of the grove.

There, bathed in a soft, golden light, stood the Maharlika Tree. This ancient oak, its trunk as wide as a man's embrace, was the very symbol of the Maharlika Guild. Its branches, reaching out like welcoming arms, were adorned with delicate, shimmering leaves that seemed to pulse with a soft, golden light. The tree was said to be imbued with the blessings and magical energy of the Maharlika Guild, its presence a source of strength and guidance for its members.

Raine stood in awe, mesmerized by the breathtaking views. He had never imagined that being part of a Guild could be this beautiful, that being a Gifted could be this fulfilling. He was filled with a sense of wonder and excitement. He had finally found his place, his purpose.

A voice, deep and resonant, boomed from the corner of the grove, startling Raine from his reverie. He turned, his eyes wide with surprise. "Welcome to the Sacred Grove of the Maharlika Guild, young man," the voice said.

The grove is a place of peace and tranquility, a sanctuary where members of the Maharlika Guild can connect with nature and draw upon its power. It is a place where the heart can find solace, where the mind can find clarity, and where the spirit can be renewed.

The grove was a haven of peace and tranquility, a sanctuary where members of the Maharlika Guild could commune with nature and draw upon its potent magic. It was a place for solace, clarity, and renewal, a refuge for both heart and soul.

Raine, overwhelmed by the man's formidable magical presence, stammered, "W-who-who are y-you?"

The man's voice, deep and resonant, boomed in the grove, "I am Dean. The Headmaster of the Maharlika Guild."

Dean Voun Roekel, the Headmaster of the Maharlika Guild. He radiated an air of authority and dignity, befitting his position as the head of the esteemed Roekel clan.

His eyes, deep-set and wise, held a warm, chestnut brown hue that was reminiscent of aged oak. They reflected a wealth of life experience and wisdom, captivating those who met his gaze with their depth and sincerity.

A crown of raven hair, silvered with the passage of time, adorned his head, symbolizing the accumulated knowledge and wisdom that came with his years. His hair, though touched with silver, retained a distinguished fullness and texture, lending an air of elegance and maturity to his appearance. His neatly groomed locks embodied both his role as a clan leader and a man of refined taste.

Dean's facial features exuded an air of authority and command. His strong, square jawline spoke of resolve and determination, while his high cheekbones added a touch of sophistication to his countenance. His brows, furrowed with the weight of responsibility, conveyed a sense of deep thought and careful consideration. He was a man who had seen much, who had borne the burden of leadership, and yet, his face still held a kindliness, a gentleness that belied his position of power.

Physically, Dean's stature reflected years of leadership and responsibility. While he no longer possessed the youthful vigor of his sons, he carried himself with a dignified poise, radiating an aura of presence and experience.

"Headmaster?" Raine muttered, his voice laced with a hint of awe. He had heard tales of the Headmaster of the Maharlika Guild, a man of immense power and wisdom.

Dean turned to the Maharlika Tree, his eyes filled with affection. He gazed upon it with a reverence that spoke volumes of his respect for this ancient oak.

"This tree was planted by the founder of our guild. Beneath its roots, the body of the first Master lies. We believe that the First Master's spirit resides in this tree, granting blessings and safeguarding this sacred grove," Dean explained.

Raine nodded in understanding, his gaze fixed on the tree. He felt a sense of awe, a connection to this ancient being, the guardian of the Maharlika Guild.

The Headmaster sighed, his gaze shifting from the tree to Raine. He walked closer, his footsteps soft on the mossy ground. "This tree will assess you, young man. It will determine if you have what it takes to be a member of our guild."

Raine's eyes widened in surprise. He had never imagined that the tree would be the deciding factor in his acceptance. He was weak, barely a spark compared to the other Gifteds he had seen. Would the tree accept him? Could he even hope to join the Maharlika Guild? A wave of doubt washed over him.

"Touch the tree," the Headmaster instructed.

Raine took a deep breath, trying to quell the fear that was tightening in his chest. He approached the tree, his hand trembling as he reached out to touch its gnarled bark. He looked up at the shimmering leaves, a sense of wonder washing over him. He closed his eyes, focusing his energy on the tree, but a minute passed, and he felt nothing. He withdrew his hand, disappointment washing over him. He hugged himself, a sense of failure settling over him.

"I'm sorry, I think I have to go now," Raine said dejectedly, his voice cracking with unshed tears. He turned to leave, his shoulders slumping with defeat.

The Headmaster, observing Raine's despair, fell silent for a moment, his gaze fixed on the young man. He then spoke, his voice warm and reassuring, "Welcome to our Guild, Raine. You are now officially a member of the Maharlika Guild."

Raine's world seemed to stop. "Huh?" he stammered, unable to process the Headmaster's words. He stood frozen, his mind reeling.

"When you return home, look at your reflection in the mirror," the Headmaster said, a gentle smile gracing his lips. "You may go home now and return tomorrow. Natasha will be there to explain the functions of the guild."

"Will do, Headmaster!" Raine exclaimed, his face breaking into a wide grin. The shock had dissipated, replaced by a wave of elation. He had been accepted! He was a member of the Maharlika Guild!

Raine returned home, his smile unwavering. He lay on his bed, letting out a sigh of relief. He finally had a job, a place where he belonged. He tilted his head, noticing his sling bag open, a golden key peeking out. He pulled the key out, its golden surface shimmering under the dim light of his room. He clutched it to his chest, a surge of warmth filling him.

"Tomorrow would be a fresh start for both of us," he whispered, his voice filled with hope. "I promise I will do everything I can to become stronger, to summon you again." He prayed mentally, hoping to connect with the spirit he had been trying to summon.

He sighed, a sense of peace settling over him. He stood up, shedding his clothes, and headed to the bathroom. He sunk into the warm bath, letting the water soothe his tired muscles. His mind drifted, picturing his future. He hoped that his future would be filled with joy, with purpose, with a sense of belonging. He had been through enough pain in his past, and he prayed that he would never have to endure such hardship again.

He emerged from the bathroom, ready to get dressed, when he remembered the Headmaster's instructions. He paused, a sense of curiosity washing over him. He had been accepted into the Maharlika Guild, but what did that mean? What lay ahead for him? He had so many questions, so many hopes and dreams. He was ready to embark on this new journey, this new chapter in his life.

"Mirror," he murmured, his voice barely a breath. He approached the mirror, his back to it, heart pounding with anticipation.

And there it was, etched upon his skin, the Maharlika Guild Mark. It was a stylized image of a tree with roots that intertwined with a crescent moon, all bathed in a golden glow. A wave of relief washed over him. He smiled, a genuine smile that reached his eyes. He gently touched the mark, feeling a surge of warmth and belonging.

A new day dawned, the sun rising over Sunhaven, casting golden rays through the window of Raine's room. The wind, playful and free, rustled the curtains, sending a gentle breeze into the room. The sunlight hit Raine's face, waking him from his sleep. His eyelids fluttered open, revealing two pools of molten silver. He sat up, leaning against the headboard, a sigh escaping his lips. For some reason, he felt a sense of unease, a familiar wave of existential questioning washing over him. He sighed again, a deep, heavy sigh, and rose from the bed, smoothing the covers before heading to the bathroom. He showered, the warm water washing away the remnants of his unease.

This time, he left his sling bag behind, choosing to carry only his golden key in his pocket. Today, he decided to dress in a classic navy blue blazer with a single button closure, paired with a crisp white Oxford shirt and a button-down collar. He wore dark wash denim jeans with a slim fit, and brown leather Chelsea boots with a sleek silhouette and a stacked heel, completing his look.

He stepped out of his dorm, and like yesterday, he walked towards the Maharlika Guild. Sunhaven bustled with activity, people going about their day in their usual routine. After an hour of walking, Raine reached the Guild. He stepped inside, greeted by a bustling scene of activity.

"Woah, there are so many people today," Raine thought, scanning the faces around him. He began to search for Natasha, eager to learn more about this new world he had stepped into.

Raine wandered the Guild, searching for Natasha, but his gaze was inevitably drawn to the library. He stood before the towering shelves, his breath catching in his throat. Thousands of books, each one a potential gateway to knowledge, lined the walls. In his past, he had been forbidden from reading anything about magic. He had been caught once, his parents' punishment so harsh that he had never dared to touch a magic book again. But now, standing in this magnificent library, he felt a surge of excitement. He was finally free to explore, to learn, to grow.

His eyes scanned the shelves, and a book caught his attention. He pulled it out, tracing his fingers over its worn leather cover.

"Celestial Magic," he read aloud, the title resonating with a familiar energy.

He wondered if he could borrow it, if he could finally delve into the secrets of magic. He carefully carried the book and began to search for the librarian. He found her quickly, a woman with kind eyes and a gentle smile.

"Hey, good morning. I was wondering if I could borrow some books?" he asked politely.

She observed him for a moment, her gaze piercing, before a warm smile graced her lips. "Yes, of course. Just make sure to return them when you are done reading. Sign your name here," she instructed, handing him a slip of paper.

Raine diligently filled out the form, thanked the librarian, and then exited the library. He continued to search for Natasha, but she was nowhere to be found. Exhausted by the search and overwhelmed by the crowd, he decided to head to the Sacred Grove. He smiled as he approached the Maharlika Tree, drawn to its presence. He couldn't explain it, but he felt a deep connection to this ancient oak. He sat on the ground, opened the book, and began to read, trying to memorize the words, to absorb the knowledge.

Raine's head throbbed as he scanned the complex spells, their intricate patterns and demanding mana requirements. He sighed, a sense of frustration creeping in. He needed to focus on simpler spells, ones that wouldn't drain his already limited reserves. "Lunar tides of Healing," he murmured, reading the inscription. "If I want to master spells like this, I need to work on my mana capacity. I should be able to summon a spirit again before even attempting these kinds of spells."

"You're here?" Natasha's voice, light and melodic, broke through his thoughts.

Raine turned, a bow forming on his lips. "Lady Natasha."

Natasha smiled, a welcoming warmth radiating from her. "Come, let me give you a tour." She began to walk, Raine trailing behind her. "So, you've been to the Sacred Grove already. Our Guild has many facilities—the library, where you can study; dorms; an infirmary; a training ground; a meditation room; meeting rooms, and so on."

"Training ground?" Raine muttered, his eyes widening with curiosity. Natasha heard him.

"Yes, let's check it out first," she said, her voice full of enthusiasm.

They walked through long, elegant hallways, Natasha explaining as they passed by the infirmary, meditation room, and meeting room.

"Oh, here we are," Natasha exclaimed, stopping at a large, open space.

"Woah," Raine breathed, his jaw dropping in awe. The training room was vast, filled with other Gifteds practicing their skills.

He looked down at his hands, a pang of longing twisting his stomach. Could he ever be as strong as them? Would he ever be able to achieve his full potential?

"So, we should head back to the Lounge," Natasha said, breaking into his thoughts.

"Hmmm," Raine murmured, his mind still reeling from the enormity of the training room. He had so much to learn, so much to achieve.

"There are five rules that you should follow as a member of our Guild," Natasha said, her voice taking on a serious tone. "So listen carefully." She paused, allowing the words to sink in. "The first rule is what we call the 'Harmony of the Heart'."

"What does that mean?" Raine asked, his curiosity piqued.

"The Maharlika Guild emphasizes the importance of inner harmony," Natasha explained, "believing that true power comes from a balanced and compassionate heart. The second rule is what we called, 'The Law of Empathy.' Within this rule, members are encouraged to cultivate empathy for all living things, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. We are taught to understand the perspectives of others, even those who are different from us, and to treat all creatures with respect."

Raine nodded, finding these two rules to be important and noble.

"What's the third rule?" he asked formally, eager to learn more.

Natasha answered, "The Law of Gratitude. The Maharlika Guild places great value on gratitude. Members are encouraged to express gratitude for the gifts of nature, for the strength of their powers, and for the support of their fellow members. This practice is believed to foster a sense of humility and to deepen their connection to the world."

They had reached the Lounge, a comfortable space filled with plush couches. They sat facing each other, a sense of peace settling over Raine.

"The fourth rule is "The Law of Selflessness,'" Natasha continued, "The Maharlika Guild believes that true power lies not in dominance, but in selflessness. Members are encouraged to use their powers to help others, to protect the environment, and to contribute to the well-being of the world. Lastly, the fifth rule, "The Law of Acceptance," The Maharlika Guild embraces diversity, welcoming members of all types and backgrounds. They believe that each individual has unique strengths and gifts to offer, and they encourage members to celebrate their differences and to learn from each other." She finished her explanation, her voice filled with conviction. She looked at Raine, her eyes filled with warmth and encouragement.

Natasha leaned forward, her gaze meeting Raine's. "And I know deep inside, Raine, that the Maharlika Tree accepted you for a reason. You just have to believe."

Raine looked away, his eyes welling with tears. "And what if the tree was wrong?" he whispered, his voice choked with doubt.

Natasha smiled gently, her voice filled with reassurance. "The Maharlika Tree doesn't know how to make mistakes, Raine. I'll leave you now. Go explore the Guild. Discover for yourself what it means to be a member of our family." She rose from the couch and walked away, leaving Raine alone with his thoughts.

Raine bit his lower lip, his gaze falling on the book he had borrowed from the library. He picked it up, placing it on his lap, and opened it, his fingers tracing the worn pages. He landed on the page that discussed how to improve one's summoning abilities. He memorized the information, carefully studying the diagrams and instructions. He closed the book and prepared to head back to his dorm.

"No time should be wasted," he muttered, "I have to improve somehow." He felt a surge of determination, a fire ignited within him.

He arrived at his dorm, a sense of peace settling over him. He completed his daily routine, a sense of urgency propelling him forward. Finally, he sat on the bench, his eyes focused on the book, the pages filled with knowledge. He flipped to the page on summoning, his heart pounding with anticipation.

"Veil of Meditation," Raine read, his eyes tracing the words on the page. He was drawn to it, its title promising a path to deeper connection. He delved into the content, the instructions clear and concise. He could try it immediately, he realized. He switched off his lights, the only illumination now coming from the moonlight filtering through his window.

He sat cross-legged in the center of his room, closing his eyes. He followed the instructions, focusing on the darkness surrounding him, imagining it not as emptiness but as a tapestry woven with threads of starlight and ethereal energy. It was difficult at first, but Raine slowly began to feel it. A golden magic circle, unseen by him, materialized beneath his figure. He breathed deeply, feeling the subtle vibrations of the veil. He imagined it as a shimmering curtain, just beyond his perception, pulsating with the energy of spirits. He let go of his earthly concerns, focusing on the vastness of the spirit realm, its mysteries and wonders.

For hours, Raine meditated, his mind attuned to the energy of the spirit realm. The magic circle pulsed with a soft golden light, a testament to his growing connection. But eventually, his body reached its limit, his energy drained. The magic circle shattered, and Raine fell to the floor, exhausted. He had absorbed as much energy as he could from the spirit realm for now. His eyelids fluttered closed, his consciousness fading. He drifted off to sleep, his body still curled in a meditative pose.

Another morning dawned, this time Raine was up before the sun, his body energized by a newfound sense of purpose. He felt a subtle improvement in his mana, a glimmer of hope that fueled his determination. It wasn't enough to summon a spirit yet, but he knew that with hard work, he could achieve that goal. He set out for the Maharlika Guild, heading straight for the training ground, eager to begin his day. He found it empty, bathed in the soft light of the pre-dawn sky.

"This is it!" Raine declared, his voice echoing in the vast space. "I will train hard and be an exceptional Gifted someday."

He began with stretching, his muscles protesting after a night of rest. He pushed himself further, determined to push past his limitations. Then, he started running, circling the vast training ground. Lap after lap, he pushed his body to its limits, sweat dripping down his face, his clothes clinging to his skin. He felt the burn in his muscles, the shortness of breath, but he didn't stop. He had to build his endurance, his strength, his stamina.

He completed five laps, collapsing to his knees, gasping for breath. "Ha!" he breathed, his body aching, his lungs burning.

The door to the training ground swung open, and a young Gifted man entered. He was shocked to find someone already training so early in the morning, and he was clearly not one of the regular early birds.

He watched Raine, his gaze drawn to the shimmering silver hair that clung to Raine's forehead, his skin glistening with sweat. The young Gifted man decided to move to a side where he could observe Raine without being noticed, eager to see what kind of training this new member of the Guild was undertaking.