In a lush, green cradle of nature, the Temple of Awakening stood like a jewel carved by divine hands. Its tall spires shimmered in the soft glow of morning, their clove-colored stone blending with the rising sun's amber light. The air carried the scent of lotus blossoms from the still pond beside the temple, where dragonflies skated over the water's skin. The temple radiated serenity, a sacred monument to human potential.
This was the only temple in the world devoted solely to humankind. In a world of beasts, spirits, and gods, the Temple of Awakening served just one purpose: to strengthen humanity. Every human, no matter their class, blood, or birth, had the right to awaken.
But today, its tranquil silence was broken.
The villagers of Franster were gathering outside, their hushed murmurs rising as more families arrived. They spoke of dreams, fears, talents, and potential, all woven into the unspoken weight of this day.
One by one, the children of age, those turning fourteen, stood with their families, waiting for the ceremony that would shape their lives. The temple bell rang once, twice, then a third time, each chime echoing like thunder through the mountains, marking the moment of sunrise.
Inside the grand hall, a ritual was underway. The priest stood before a marble altar, grinding the final of thirteen sacred herbs into a thick, glistening solution. This elixir, when consumed, would stimulate the soul, unlocking the path to one's hidden potential and bonding them to a soul artefact, if fate allowed.
"Lemonk," the priest called, his voice deep and serene, "step forward. It is time."
Lemonk's heart thudded. He took a breath and began to move, until a voice shattered the calm.
"WHY?"
A boy stepped forward, his face red with anger. Rowan.
"Why does he get to go first?" Rowan snapped. "He's just an orphan. Who cares if he's first or last?"
The villagers gasped. A few shook their heads, ashamed at Rowan's bluntness.
The priest, to his credit, kept calm. "He arrived first. That is all."
"It shouldn't matter," Rowan argued, sneering