“THE TALE OF THE SILVER WITCH"

NARRATOR'S POV

"It is said that I could also manifest my energy into Telekinetic energy," Raine mused to himself, a glimmer of hope flickering in his heart. He needed to find a way to enhance his powers, to unlock his true potential.

He searched for a light object and found a small stone, placing it in front of him. He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and focused. He summoned the magic flowing within him, pushing it towards the stone. He let out a sigh of frustration as nothing happened. He couldn't even move the small stone, a testament to his weakness.

He tried again, pushing harder, but the stone remained stubbornly still. He tried and tried, his frustration growing with each failed attempt. His body ached, his mind weary. He was on the verge of giving up, his energy depleted.

"O-one more," he muttered, his voice weak.

He extended his hands, palms facing the small stone.

"Please move," he prayed, his voice barely a whisper.

He closed his eyes again, focusing, his breathing controlled. He emptied his mind of everything except the stone, visualizing it levitating in the air.

The Gifted man who had entered the training room watched Raine intently, finding the new member's struggle amusing. He was so weak, unable to even lift a small stone. How could he ever become a powerful Gifted?

Raine focused, his mind a blank canvas, his energy flowing towards the stone. He felt a connection, a faint tremor of power. He could almost sense it moving, but it wasn't enough. He needed more, more power, more focus.

A scarlet red energy crackled to life in Raine's palm, a surge of power that he hadn't known he possessed. It enveloped the small stone, lifting it off the ground. Raine opened his eyes, his face a mask of disbelief. The stone was levitating, defying gravity, a testament to his newfound strength.

"I-I-I-I did it! I did it!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with a mixture of disbelief and elation.

But the power drained from him as quickly as it had surged. He felt his body weakening, his energy waning. He collapsed to the ground, the stone falling beside him. But Raine was laughing, a joyous, unrestrained laugh that echoed in the training room.

The man who had been watching Raine felt his heart skip a beat as he heard the sound of that laugh. It was an angelic laugh, pure and innocent, and it unnerved him. He saw Raine's naivete and vulnerability, a weakness that he could exploit.

Raine closed his eyes, content washing over him. He smiled, his heart filled with a sense of accomplishment. He had done it. He had moved the stone. He had unlocked a new level of power.

But a minute later, he felt a powerful magical energy surge through the training room. He slowly opened his eyes, his vision adjusting to the light. He saw a pair of eyes, the color of a stormy sky, holding a depth that chilled him to the bone, gazing back at him.

He couldn't react, frozen by fear. He tried to scramble away, to defend himself, but before he could even move, the man was on him. He was caught in a gentle clinch, but it was a clinch that held him immobile, as if he was caught in a vice. Then, the man threw Raine, a powerful hip throw that sent him sprawling across the floor.

Raine landed hard, the air knocked out of his lungs. He gasped for breath, his body aching, his mind reeling. He had been so focused on his own training, on his own progress, that he hadn't sensed this man's presence, his power.

He had underestimated his opponent.

"Ouch!" Raine groaned, his body protesting the impact. He felt a sharp pain radiating from his back, his breath ragged.

"You'll never improve if you don't push yourself to your limits," the man said, his voice cold and emotionless. "Only then can you truly grow, only then can you break your boundaries."

Raine took in the man's features. His face was a study in sharp angles, his cheekbones high and prominent, his jawline a clean, chiseled line. His eyes, the color of a stormy sky, held a depth that chilled to the bone. His lips, usually pressed into a thin line, were as pale as snow. His hair, a raven's wing, was perpetually tousled, as if a cold wind had just swept through it.

His presence commanded attention, not through boisterous displays, but through a quiet, almost unnerving intensity. There was a stillness about him, a sense of frozen power that made Raine's heart falter. It didn't help that the man before him possessed a magical energy that dwarfed Raine's own.

Raine pushed himself up from the ground, his legs trembling from exhaustion. He struggled to stand, his body aching with every movement. "Who are you?" he asked, his voice a shaky whisper.

The man didn't answer Raine's question. Instead, he moved as if he was about to punch Raine, his fist cocking back. Raine's eyes widened in alarm. He instinctively dodged, his body reacting before his mind could process the threat.

"Don't get distracted," the man said, his voice monotone, a stark contrast to the intensity of his movements.

"Why are you doing this?!" Raine shrieked, fear constricting his throat.

"Training. Focus!" the man snapped, his voice clipped, and he advanced again.

The man swung for Raine, but Raine dodged, his body now moving with a newfound agility. But the man was quick, his movements fluid and powerful. He used his foot, catching Raine off guard, and Raine dropped to the ground. The man was about to deliver a blow, but Raine rolled, his breathing heavy. He extended his hand, his palm crackling with scarlet energy. The man's knee was engulfed in the fiery energy, and with a swift swing of his hand, Raine sent the man off balance. The man stumbled, losing his footing, and crashed to the ground.

Raine scrambled to his feet, his body screaming in protest. Black dots swam before his vision, but he shook his head, focusing on the fight.

"Well done," the man said, his voice devoid of emotion, but there was a hint of grudging approval in his tone.

"Please no more," Raine begged, his voice a breathless whisper.

"You can't say that in the middle of a fight," the man replied, his voice cold and sharp. He lunged forward, his fist aimed at Raine's chest. Raine was too exhausted to react. The man's punch connected, sending a jolt of pain through Raine's body. Raine stumbled, his vision blurring, the dark dots expanding. He dropped to his knees, his world fading to darkness.

The man stared down at the unconscious figure. He sighed, his expression unreadable. "You still have a long way to go," he muttered, a hint of disappointment in his voice. He knew that Raine was barely scratching the surface of his potential, but he also knew that he had the potential to be great. He had a spark, a raw power that could be molded into something extraordinary. But that potential needed to be nurtured, challenged, pushed to its limits. And that was precisely what he intended to do.

Hours passed, and the afternoon sun slanted through the windows of the Maharlika Guild's infirmary. Raine stirred in his sleep, his eyelids fluttering open, revealing his mesmerizing molten silver eyes. He blinked, his mind hazy, and memories flooded back: the handsome man, the intense training, the exhaustion, the pain. He sat up, startled to see the man from the training room asleep in a chair nearby.

He swallowed hard, his gaze lingering on the man's features. He had to admit, the man was undeniably handsome. Truth be told, Raine was homosexual. He had known it for a long time, but he kept his feelings hidden. It was a taboo, a truth that could bring danger and even death. He had to be careful. He had to be discreet.

As Raine was pulled back to reality, he realized that the man was awake, his stormy grey eyes meeting Raine's silver ones. Raine's heart skipped a beat. He realized that he had been staring, his thoughts lost in admiration, and the man might have caught him checking him out. He quickly averted his gaze, a blush creeping up his cheeks.

"You're awake," the man said, his voice a deep rumble, a husky caress of sound.

Raine's skin prickled at the sound of the man's voice. He felt a warmth spread through him, a blush deepening on his cheeks.

"Oh no!" he mentally screamed, his heart pounding in his chest. He felt a strange mix of fear and fascination. This man was dangerous, powerful, and utterly captivating.

He quickly searched for a way to break the awkwardness, to escape the intensity of the situation.

"Umm, why did you attack me earlier?!" Raine blurted out, pointing a shaky finger at the man.

But his attempt to appear indignant, to deflect the awkwardness, only made him look foolish. He seemed more like a child whose candy had been stolen, throwing a fit. The man just looked at him, amusement dancing in his stormy grey eyes.

"Why aren't you saying anything?!" Raine exclaimed, his voice laced with a tremor of anxiety. He couldn't stand the silence, the unspoken tension hanging heavy in the air. He needed to break this awkwardness, to understand what was happening.

"I'll leave now," the man said, his voice as cool and collected as ever. "Let's meet at the training ground tomorrow, same time." He turned and started to walk away, leaving Raine feeling more confused than before.

"Wait!" Raine called out, his heart pounding. "Can I know your name?"

The man didn't turn back, but his voice carried a hint of amusement. "Eirwen." And with that, he exited the infirmary room, leaving Raine alone with his swirling thoughts.

Raine let out a sigh of relief, leaning back against the headboard of the bed. The tension had dissipated, replaced by a sense of bewilderment and curiosity. Then he remembered that he could do his daily meditation, even here in the infirmary. He closed his eyes, focusing on the darkness surrounding him, imagining it not as emptiness but as a tapestry woven with threads of starlight and ethereal energy. This time, the meditation felt easier, the process more familiar. He 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.

He immersed himself in the meditation, feeling the calming energy wash over him. He felt a sense of peace, a connection to something larger than himself.

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, he felt a sense of dizziness, a sign that his body needed a break. He reluctantly pulled himself out of the meditation, knowing he needed to leave the Guild. Before he did, though, he went back to the library, his thirst for knowledge insatiable. He borrowed a stack of books, eager to delve deeper into the secrets of magic.

He stumbled home, the darkness of night enveloping him. But he finally arrived safely, his heart filled with anticipation. He couldn't sleep, his mind too active, too excited by the knowledge he had absorbed. He studied, his eyes scanning the pages, memorizing spells, his brain buzzing with information. Only when the early hours of the morning arrived, did he finally succumb to sleep.

He woke early, the sun not yet peeking over the horizon. He set off for the Maharlika Guild, heading straight for the training ground. Dark circles were visible under his eyes, but they didn't diminish his beauty. He closed his eyes, feeling the magical energy surging within him, stronger than the day before. He started running, his usual five laps, the routine now feeling more manageable, his body responding with less fatigue. Sweat dripped from his chin, a testament to his effort.

He tilted his head, hearing the door to the training ground open. He recognized the sound of Eirwen's arrival, his heart pounding with a strange mixture of anticipation and apprehension. He quickly turned, his back to the newcomer, trying to hide the blush creeping onto his cheeks.

"Let's start," Eirwen announced, his voice a low rumble that sent a shiver down Raine's spine. "This time, show me what you've got."

Raine turned to face him, his expression now serious. "If I want to improve, I must rid of these feelings first," he thought, trying to push down the blush that warmed his cheeks whenever Eirwen was near. He needed to focus on his training, on becoming stronger, not on his burgeoning feelings for the enigmatic man.

"Attack!" Eirwen commanded, his eyes hardening.

Raine charged forward, his movements now more confident, more fluid. The hours that followed were filled with rigorous training. Eirwen pushed Raine to his limits, their movements a blur of speed and power. Raine was a fast learner, absorbing the techniques with a ferocity that surprised even Eirwen. He had a natural talent, a raw power that needed to be honed.

The other Guild Members, intrigued by the intensity of their training, would sometimes gather at a distance, silently observing. They were curious as to why Eirwen, known for his icy demeanor and solitary nature, had chosen to train the new member. They watched as Raine learned new spells, his movements growing more precise, his control of his magic becoming more refined. They whispered among themselves, speculating on the relationship between the two men.

The cycle continued for two weeks. Raine woke early, his body aching with the memory of the previous day's training. He met Eirwen at the training ground, and they would spar for hours, honing their skills, testing their limits. Hand-to-hand combat, powerful spells, swift maneuvers—they pushed each other to the edge. Raine's fighting skills improved leaps and bounds, his body becoming more agile, his reflexes sharper.

After their training, Raine would spend hours in the library, lost in the world of books. He devoured ancient texts, studied forgotten spells, his mind overflowing with knowledge. He turned the library into his sanctuary, finding solace in the quiet wisdom of the ancient texts. And when he needed a break from the intensity of his studies, he would seek refuge in the meditation room, his body and mind rejuvenating under the calming influence of the spirit realm.

His magical energy surged, growing stronger with each passing day, a testament to his relentless dedication. He was no longer the inexperienced, uncertain boy who had stumbled through the door of the Maharlika Guild. He had transformed, his powers blossoming under Eirwen's tutelage. And as he honed his skills, he also began to understand the depth of Eirwen's character, his sternness masking a profound dedication to his craft. Eirwen, though seemingly cold and aloof, was a skilled instructor, a mentor who saw Raine's potential and pushed him to reach for his full potential.

A new week had arrived, and Raine's body ached with the strain of rigorous training. His muscles protested, every movement a reminder of his relentless efforts. He dragged his tired body to the bathroom, taking a long, hot shower to soothe his aching limbs. He felt exhausted, his body protesting, and he suspected he might be coming down with a cold. He decided on a soft gray knit sweater with a relaxed fit and a subtle V-neckline, layered over a light blue chambray shirt for a touch of casual elegance. He paired it with tailored slim fit chinos in a versatile navy blue shade and classic brown leather brogues with a slightly rounded toe for a polished finish.

"I should skip training today," he thought, his body yearning for rest.

But then his gaze fell on the glinting golden key in his pocket. He took it out, turning it over in his hand. Today was the day, he decided. Today was the day he would test his powers, the day he would summon his spirit.

He looked at his reflection in the mirror, noticing that his silver hair had grown longer, now resting at neck level. Then, a memory flashed before his eyes, a memory of his past, and his expression hardened. He wouldn't cut his hair. He would let it grow, a symbol of his resilience, of his journey.

He left his dorm and headed toward the Maharlika Guild. His pace was slower than usual, his body still weary. He silently observed the people around him, their daily routines, their lives unfolding. He felt a sense of calm, a sense of connection to the world around him. He reached the Guild and headed for the training room. He was late, and he expected to find Eirwen waiting for him, but the training ground was empty or that's what he thought.

Within those two weeks, despite his attempts to suppress them, Raine's feelings for Eirwen had blossomed. They had grown closer, their training sessions forging a bond between them. Eirwen, for the first time, seemed to be opening up to Raine, revealing glimpses of his guarded heart. Raine had learned that Eirwen was a C-class Gifted, a feat that placed him among the most powerful in the Guild and on the continent. He was also known as the "Ice Prince," a title that reflected his cold exterior.

Now, as Raine opened the door to the training room, his heart shattered into a million pieces. Tears welled up in his eyes, threatening to spill over. His chest constricted painfully. He felt a crushing betrayal, even though he knew he had no right to such feelings. Eirwen was with a beautiful woman, their lips locked in a passionate kiss.

He closed the door silently, a bitter laugh escaping his lips. He was so foolish, so naive to have allowed himself to hope. Of course, someone as handsome and powerful as Eirwen wouldn't be interested in him. He was stupid, dumb to have thought otherwise. These damn feelings, this damn heart! He couldn't control it, couldn't stop the tide of emotion threatening to drown him.

He ran towards the Sacred Grove, his head bowed low, his tears hidden from view. When he reached the grove, he was enveloped by its tranquility. Sunlight filtered through a canopy of ancient trees, dappling 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.

Raine followed the winding path, paved with smooth, moss-covered stones, leading 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. Tears continued to flow down Raine's cheeks, his silent grief witnessed only by the trees.

At the heart of the grove, 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.

Raine approached the Maharlika Tree, drawn to its ancient wisdom and comforting presence. He sat at its base, his back against its rough bark, and cried like a child. His body shook with the force of his grief, the tears flowing freely, a release of the pain that had been building within him. He cried for the love that could never be his, the love he had dared to dream of. His cries reverberated through the grove, silencing the birdsong, a testament to the depth of his anguish.

A sudden crunch of a branch startled him. He raised his head, wiping his tears, his eyes red and puffy from crying. He saw a woman standing before him, her gaze soft and understanding. He tilted his head, his heart pounding. The woman advanced slowly, her movements gentle, and she sat beside him on the ground.

"Why are you crying?" she asked, her voice as gentle as the whisper of the wind through the leaves. It was the most gentle tone Raine had ever heard, a soothing balm to his wounded heart.

"Nothing," Raine mumbled, pulling himself into a tight hug, his body still trembling.

"Want to talk about it? It might not take away the burden, but at least it could lift some of the pain by sharing it," she explained, her voice soft and reassuring.

Raine contemplated her offer. He studied her features, her beauty striking, her aura radiating tranquility. She seemed trustworthy, her presence calming his troubled heart. Eventually, he surrendered, his heart yearning for someone to share his pain.

"I fell in love with someone whom I know would never love me back. But despite knowing it, my heart fell for him anyway," Raine confessed, his voice thick with emotion.

The woman smiled in understanding, her gaze filled with empathy. She patted Raine's back gently, her touch a soothing balm to his aching heart. "I see. Well, you know, the most painful love stories are the ones that are filled with unspoken words and missed opportunities, leaving us forever wondering what could have been."

Raine nodded, his eyes still filled with tears. "But what's that got to do with my situation?" he asked, his voice a mere whisper.

"Look to the brighter side," the woman said, her voice soft but firm. "Improve yourself, but don't destroy yourself. Let that someone realize your worth." She spoke with a genuine warmth that touched Raine's soul.

"How?" Raine choked out, his voice filled with despair.

The woman smiled, a knowing look in her eyes. "Only you can answer that, dear."

Raine nodded, meeting the woman's sincere eyes. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice still a little shaky.

"Welcome," she said, her voice filled with warmth. "Now go, stand up and chase your dreams." She urged him, her hand resting gently on his shoulder, a touch that conveyed strength and encouragement.

Raine nodded eagerly, a smile gracing his lips. The sadness that had been weighing him down began to lift, replaced by a sense of determination. He bowed to the woman in gratitude, then turned and headed for the Task Room.

The Task Room was a bustling hub of activity, filled with Guild Members, both old and new, browsing through the countless tasks displayed on the wall. Raine took a deep breath, trying to adjust to the sudden change in atmosphere. He scanned the quest board, his gaze settling on the E-class quest section.

"Oh, were you the new member everyone's been talking about?" a voice asked.

Raine looked up, startled but quickly composing himself. He smiled, a warm gesture of courtesy. "Yes, I am."

"Hmmmm, were you looking for a quest to take?" the guy asked gently, his voice friendly and encouraging.

"Yes," Raine nodded eagerly, his eyes sparkling with newfound enthusiasm.

"Well, then can I recommend one?" the guy offered, a smile playing on his lips.

"Sure!" Raine replied, his heart filled with a mix of anticipation and excitement.

The guy surveyed the array of quests, his gaze settling on a particular paper at the top. He carefully removed it from the board and handed it to Raine.

"Give this to the woman at the counter so that she could record it," the guy explained, his voice laced with a hint of warmth.

"Thank you, Sir!" Raine expressed, his voice filled with gratitude. He accepted the paper, his heart pounding with a mixture of anticipation and excitement. He made his way to the counter and showed the paper to the woman.

The woman nodded, carefully documenting the details of the quest. She asked a few questions about Raine, ensuring he understood the terms and conditions, before having him sign a document. She then smiled at him. "You're all set to go," she said.

Raine thanked her, then turned and left the Guild, his steps light with purpose. He headed for his home, but before he could get there, he decided to make a stop at the shore. The wind carried his silver hair, gently ruffling the strands as he stood, gazing out at the vast expanse of the ocean.

"I know my value, and I won't settle for anything less," Raine whispered to himself, his voice filled with a newfound confidence. He had been hurt, but he wouldn't let that define him. He would forge his own path, claim his own destiny.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out the golden key, his heart pounding with a mixture of fear and anticipation. He extended his hand, the golden key gleaming in the sunlight. He took a deep breath, summoning his magical power, a surge of energy coursing through his veins. The key responded, glowing with a soft golden light, a testament to the power flowing through it.

"Through the ancient powers that intertwine, I beckon the arcane spirit to shine. From hidden realms and shadows so deep, arise before me, I summon thee. The Knight Sentinel, Seraphel!" Raine invoked, his voice echoing with the roar of the waves, his words carried by the wind, a declaration of his intent.

A magic circle materialized in the ground, a breathtaking spectacle of swirling energy. It wasn't simply a circle, but a radiant sun-like pattern, with golden rays of light shooting outward, like celestial beams. The circle was framed by a series of interlocking golden chains, forged from an energy that seemed to shimmer with divine power. Intricate golden glyphs, resembling ancient scripts or celestial maps, were woven into the chains and rays, a symphony of magical symbols. These glyphs represented powerful beings, celestial bodies, and specific aspects of the divine. The entire circle pulsed with a dominant golden light, accented by brilliant white and yellow, evoking a sense of power, divinity, and purity. It was a symphony of light and energy, a portal to the arcane realm, a beacon of divine authority.

From the heart of this magical circle, a shimmering archway of translucent energy formed, crackling with arcane power. Wispy tendrils of mist swirled around its edges, and a faint, otherworldly hum resonated from within, a whisper of the arcane realms beyond.

Then, from that shimmering portal, emerged a majestic warrior—the Knight Sentinel, Seraphel. He was draped in iridescent armor, shimmering like stardust, a celestial warrior of unparalleled beauty and power. Seraphel's eyes shone with an otherworldly luminescence, and his aura radiated a fierce, unwavering loyalty. He held a shining sword that seemed to hum with an energy that could shatter the very darkness itself, and a shield that pulsed with a protective energy, deflecting malevolent forces.

He knelt before Raine, his posture one of respect and devotion. "Your Highness," Seraphel greeted, his voice deep and resonant, a symphony of power and grace.

"I managed to do it. I did it!" Raine exclaimed, his voice filled with a mix of disbelief and joy. Tears welled up in his eyes, spilling down his cheeks, a release of the emotions he had been holding back for so long. He was overwhelmed with a sense of fulfillment, a feeling of accomplishment that he had never known before.

"Why are you crying, Your Highness?" The Knight Sentinel, Seraphel, asked, his voice a deep, resonant baritone.

"It's nothing," Raine choked out, his voice thick with emotion. "I'm just happy. I'm so happy." He couldn't articulate the feeling, the pure joy that surged through him. It was a feeling of triumph, a sense of validation that his efforts had paid off. He had achieved his goal, summoned his spirit. He had reached a level of power he had only dreamed of. And he knew, deep down, that this was only the beginning of his journey.

He smiled, tears still streaming down his face. "I'm just happy," he repeated, his voice trembling with a mixture of relief and exhilaration. The journey had been long and arduous, filled with setbacks and doubts, but he had persevered, and now he was standing on the cusp of something extraordinary. He had a loyal companion at his side, a powerful spirit ready to serve him. And he knew, with a certainty that filled him with a sense of purpose, that he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Raine, his nose still sniffling from a lingering cold, smiled up at Seraphel, his eyes sparkling with warmth. "Seraphel," he began, his voice soft and gentle, "would you be interested in embarking on a quest with me?"

Seraphel bowed deeply, his face filled with respect and eagerness. "It would be my greatest pleasure to serve you, Your Highness," he replied, his voice a soothing melody.

Raine's smile widened, a genuine warmth spreading through him. "Then it's settled," he declared, his voice filled with a newfound excitement. "It would be a pleasure to work alongside you, Seraphel."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, Raine returned to his home. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and the promise of adventure. Inside, he began packing, his movements swift and efficient. His heart thrummed with anticipation, each item carefully placed, each piece of gear a reminder of the journey ahead.

Before retiring for the night, Raine took a moment to meditate, seeking solace and strength in the quiet stillness. Tomorrow, he knew, would be a new chapter in his life, a chapter filled with challenges and possibilities.

The next morning, Raine awoke with a renewed sense of purpose. He bathed, his skin tingling with the cool water, and meticulously cleaned himself, knowing that the quest might not offer the luxury of regular bathing. He then dressed, choosing the scarlet hooded robe he had recently purchased. The heavy, textured wool felt comforting against his skin, and the robe, layered over a simple tunic and trousers, gave him a sense of power and mystery.

Picking up the parchment detailing the quest, Raine read the title aloud, his brow furrowing slightly. "The Whispering Shadow?" he mused, a shiver running down his spine. "What a creepy name for a quest."

But a moment later, determination replaced his apprehension. "But," he said, his voice firm, "I have to finish this quest to be promoted. It's time to prove myself."

With his pack filled with necessities, Raine stepped out of his home, the crisp morning air invigorating his senses. He set off towards Ironhold Province, the neighboring province of Westmark, his heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and trepidation.

It took some time to find a train, but eventually, Raine boarded, the rhythmic clatter of the wheels lulling him into a state of quiet contemplation. The journey was long, and by the time he arrived in Ironhold Province, the sun had already begun to set, casting long shadows across the bustling city of Forgehold.

Forgehold was a city of industry and craftsmanship, renowned for its skilled blacksmiths and towering forges. The air was thick with the scent of burning coal and the clang of metal, a symphony of creation and power. As he walked through the city streets, Raine couldn't help but be awed by the sheer scale of the forges, the flames licking at the night sky, and the intricate designs of the weapons and armor being forged.

"If I'm lucky," he thought, a glimmer of hope in his eyes, "I might be able to find an enchanted armor here. Maybe I can even learn some new magic from Seraphel." The thought of learning from the skilled mage filled him with a sense of anticipation, a yearning for knowledge and growth.

Raine's gaze wandered, captivated by the stunning architecture and the throngs of people bustling around him. The market was alive with color, showcasing an array of weapons and armor, each piece gleaming under the streetlights.

"Wow! I didn't expect Forgehold to be this large," he thought to himself, awe mixing with the thrill of exploration. "I should find an inn to rest for the night."

As he strolled through the vibrant streets, he suddenly collided with a woman, and instinctively, Raine bowed his head. "I'm sorry, it wasn't my intention," he said, his voice filled with genuine regret.

When he received no response, he straightened up, only to be taken aback by the sight of the woman's pale, bruised face. Concern flooded his heart. "Hey, are you—" he started, but his words were cut short as the woman hastily thrust three identical objects into his hands. Before he could react, she turned and sprinted away, disappearing into the crowd. It took a moment for Raine to shake off the shock and regain his senses.

Looking down at what she had given him, his eyes widened in disbelief. They were Celestial golden portal keys! He quickly turned to follow her, calling out into the throng, but she was already lost among the sea of faces.

"Your keys?" Raine muttered, worry creeping into his voice. "Ah!" He groaned, pressing his palm to his forehead in frustration.

"Protect my keys," a woman's voice echoed in his mind, sending a shiver down his spine.

Raine's eyes widened as he recognized the familiar tone. "That voice!" he gasped, clutching the three golden keys tightly in his hand. "But these aren't mine?"

He continued scanning the crowd, desperation growing as he sought the woman who had vanished so quickly. Just when hope began to fade, he retreated into a modest inn he had stumbled upon earlier, the sign swinging gently in the breeze.

Falling onto the bed, it creaked under his weight, reminding him of the weight of the keys he held. He raised them to his face, the golden sheen reflecting the dim light of the room.

"Protect your keys?" Raine murmured, confusion swirling in his mind. "But why me? Why give them to me?"

As he examined the symbols etched into the keys, he realized they were Zodiac keys: Aquarius, Cancer, and Gemini. A sense of purpose ignited within him. He took out his own golden arcane key and pressed it close to his heart, feeling a strange connection to the three new keys.

"I know that the three golden keys aren't mine," he vowed softly, determination filling his voice. "But I will cherish each one of you and treat you as friends, not mere tools, because that is the right thing to do."

With that promise, Raine felt a sense of tranquility wash over him, as if the keys themselves understood and accepted his heartfelt resolve.

As morning broke, Raine awoke early, the soft light filtering through the inn's window. He checked out, his heart brimming with anticipation, and inquired about the nearest body of water. The innkeeper pointed him toward a river nestled within the nearby forest.

Following the owner's directions, Raine embarked on a trek through the underbrush, the scent of earth and greenery filling his lungs. After a while, he finally stumbled upon the river, its waters glistening in the morning light.

"Ha!" Raine exclaimed, collapsing onto his knees at the riverbank, exhausted yet exhilarated. The soothing sound of the flowing water calmed his senses, washing away the weariness of his journey. He splashed his face with cool water, letting it refresh him as he took a moment to gather his thoughts.

With determination, he recalled the incantation for summoning a Celestial Spirit. He retrieved the Aquarius key, its golden surface shimmering in the sunlight, and submerged half of it in the river.

"By the stars that light the night sky, I beckon the celestial spirits high, from realms of cosmic beauty and grace, descend before me, I summon thee to embrace, Water bearer, Aquarius!" Raine invoked, his voice steady and resolute.

As his words hung in the air, a golden magic circle materialized above the river. It was a breathtaking sight: a radiant sun-like pattern surrounded by interlocking chains of gold, seemingly forged from divine power. Intricate golden glyphs, resembling ancient scripts or celestial maps, danced within the chains and rays, representing powerful beings and celestial bodies. The dominant gold was infused with hints of white and brilliant yellow, exuding a sense of divinity, authority, and purity.

From this magical circle, a portal began to form—circular and adorned with swirling constellations and twinkling stars, suspended in mid-air like a celestial gateway. Soft beams of light cascaded from its center, casting a gentle glow upon the surroundings. Suddenly, the water surged upwards, and from its depths emerged Aquarius.

Aquarius was a being of pure water and starlight, embodying the boundless energy and creative spirit of the celestial seas. She appeared as a tall, androgynous figure, her form shimmering like moonlight on a rippling lake. Her skin mirrored the deepest ocean, while her eyes sparkled with the brilliance of a thousand stars. Long, flowing hair, the color of a stormy sky, cascaded down her back, adorned with iridescent scales that glimmered in the light. She wore flowing robes of the purest white, intricately embroidered with constellations and celestial symbols, and her fish tail shimmered in captivating shades of blue.

Raine stared in awe, feeling a mix of excitement and reverence as he beheld this magnificent entity before him. The air around them felt charged with magic, and he knew that this moment marked the beginning of a profound connection between them.

Raine's mouth hung open in disbelief as he beheld Aquarius, the Celestial Spirit he had summoned. The gravity of his achievement weighed heavily on him, yet the chill in her demeanor sent shivers down his spine.

Aquarius turned her head to face him, her expression icy. "I never knew that there were still other Celestial Wizards alive," she remarked, her voice smooth yet laced with a hint of sorrow.

Raine blinked, the reality of her words crashing over him like a wave. "Alive? Wh-what do you mean?" he stammered, a tremor of fear creeping into his voice.

Without answering, Aquarius turned away, her back to him, as if lost in thought. "You surely don't know?" she murmured, her tone distant.

"I—I don't know," Raine admitted, desperation creeping into his voice. "I'm just new to the world of magic; I'm only beginning to study it and its history."

A heavy sigh escaped Aquarius's lips, and the sound felt like a harbinger of doom. "Then after I tell you everything, I want you to decide immediately if you still wish to be a Celestial Summoner or not."

Raine's throat tightened as he swallowed hard, fear coiling in his gut like a serpent. The weight of her words loomed over him, casting shadows on his aspirations.

Aquarius began to narrate the horrifying fate of the Celestial Summoners, her voice resonating with an ancient sorrow.

"Long ago—

=FLASHBACK=

The Celestial Summoners were once revered, their power a beacon of hope in a world fraught with darkness. They held the keys to the celestial realms, wielding the power to call upon beings of unimaginable might to protect the mortal realm from encroaching shadows. Their lineage was a sacred trust, passed down through generations, each summoner born with an innate connection to the celestial energies.

But the world was not always kind. A shadow fell upon the land, a hunter of the heavens, known only as the Celestial Hunter. Driven by a purpose shrouded in mystery, the Hunter sought to extinguish the celestial flame. They were a force of nature, a whirlwind of destruction, leaving a trail of shattered keys and broken souls in their wake.

The summoners, once protectors, became hunted prey. Their sanctuaries, once vibrant with celestial light, were reduced to desolate ruins, their echoes filled with the screams of their fallen brethren. The Hunter's methods were brutal, their touch leaving no room for mercy. They would drain the summoners of their celestial energy, leaving them as hollow shells, their connection to the heavens severed, their souls forever trapped in a purgatory of their own making.

The keys, conduits of celestial power, were stolen, their magic tainted by the Hunter's touch. They became instruments of darkness, their celestial light flickering with an ominous purple hue, a stark reminder of the fallen summoners.

The Hunter's reign of terror left a gaping wound in the world. The celestial magic, once a source of hope, became a whispered legend, a forgotten curse. The fear of the Hunter's return stifled any attempt to revive the lost art. The inherent ability to become a Celestial Wizard, once a blessing, was now a burden, a mark of impending doom.

Generations passed, and the world forgot the celestial light. The keys were lost, their power dormant, their magic a distant memory. The Hunter's purpose remained a mystery, their legacy a chilling reminder of the darkness that could consume even the brightest of flames. The celestial summoners, once revered as protectors, were reduced to a cautionary tale, a reminder of the fragility of power and the enduring shadow of fear.

=END OF FLASHBACK=

Raine's voice trembled as he asked, "But that woman who gave these keys to me?"

Aquarius's expression remained cold, yet a hint of sorrow flickered in her eyes. "Just like the others, she feared that death would knock on her door if she kept us," she replied, her tone heavy with the weight of ancient truths. "That's why our keys are either thrown away or destroyed."

"That's not fair!" Raine shouted, tears streaming down his cheeks, his voice breaking with emotion.

"Life isn't fair," Aquarius responded, her voice unwavering. "You should know that by now."

"But they can't do that to you, Celestial Spirits! You didn't do anything wrong!" Raine argued, desperation clawing at his heart.

"But by using our power, it's like choosing death itself. So destroy my key or just leave it here!" Aquarius snapped, struggling to maintain her stoic facade, annoyance creeping into her voice.

Raine's anger flared. "No! I won't do that!" He cried, tears pouring down his face. "I will find every Celestial key that I can grasp. I will protect each one of you!"

"You can't do that," Aquarius replied, her tone harsh. "You are a weak Gifted. Even the strongest Celestial Summoner didn't stand a chance against the Celestial Hunter, so what makes you think you can?"

"No! You can't choose for me!" Raine shot back, defiance burning in his eyes. "I will protect the Celestial keys, the Celestial Spirits. You are now my friend, whether you see me as one or not!"

Aquarius felt a warmth stir within her at Raine's fierce resolve. Could this truly be a moment of hope? The thought that someone would stand by the Celestial Spirits, ready to fight against the looming threat of the Celestial Hunter, filled her heart with a flicker of peace.

Raine declared, his voice filled with determination, "I will train hard! I will become a strong Summoner one day, and I will protect you from that Celestial Hunter!"

In that moment, under the vast expanse of the sky, a bond began to form between them, one forged in shared purpose and unwavering resolve. Raine's tears were not just of despair; they were a promise—a vow to fight for the spirits he had summoned and to honor the legacy of those who had come before him. The path ahead was fraught with challenges, but Raine was ready to face them, fueled by the strength of his convictions and the newfound connection to Aquarius and the other Celestial Spirits.