Solvane was no ordinary boy. He was a true Golden Asper.
The Golden bloodline was unlike any other. Because their kind rarely reproduced, the Sparllahs often attempted to recreate them—selecting the strongest among their race and reengineering their blood in hopes of birthing another Golden Asper. But such experiments almost always failed. In fact, ninety-two percent ended in failure.
And yet, Solvane was born naturally. A miracle. A true Golden Asper.
Even as a child, he surpassed his peers in strength. By the time he turned ten, his training had already begun in earnest, his days filled with endless drills and lessons. Slacking off was never an option. A golden crest marked his forehead, and many whispered that he was one of the gods reborn. Even the seven Golden Aspers who still lived were convinced of it.
His father stood at the highest seat of the Asper council—not because of strength, but because of intellect. His unique gift was his mind, sharper than any blade. Gifts such as his only awakened at the age of fifteen, when an Asper was considered an adult, though their lives often stretched to seven centuries.
On the balcony of the castle's highest tower, Solvane stood, gazing down at the city below. Humans danced and celebrated in the streets, music echoing through the festival night.
The door opened, and his mother stepped in. Solvane spun around and leapt into her arms.
"Mom! You're back!"
"Slow down, I'm still a little tired," she said with a soft chuckle.
Her golden fur had dulled, her once-vibrant glow faded. Her eyes were shadowed, dark and lifeless, yet when she looked at her son, a warm smile lit her face, filling the room with light. Solvane grinned and seized her hand.
"Come look, Mom!" He tugged her toward the balcony.
"All right, all right, I'm coming," she laughed as she let herself be dragged along. Together they leaned on the railing, watching the citizens feast, drink, and dance without care.
"Solvane," she whispered, her eyes distant, "do you want to be as happy as they are?"
The boy turned to her, puzzled. Something in her voice felt far away, almost fragile. Still, he puffed out his chest and replied, "I have you and Dad. And even though the training's hard, I'm stronger than you think!"
She laughed softly. "Of course you are. After all, you're my little Sol…" Her voice broke. Tears welled in her eyes. "I just want you to be happy. And I hope… one day… you'll forgive me."
Her tears fell, and Solvane froze. He hadn't seen her in four long years, and something in his heart told him she was hiding something. Still, he hugged her tightly, pressing his cheek against hers.
"Don't worry, Mom," he whispered. "If the time ever comes… I'll protect you."
A knock sounded at the door, followed by steady footsteps echoing across the chamber. Their embrace broke as Solvane turned, eyes widening.
His father entered, clad in white leather armor traced with golden lining. The light of the twin suns caught the edges of the plating, making him appear both regal and severe as he walked toward them.