Aiden walked back through the narrow, dark streets of Elmsreach. The cold night air cut through his old cloak as the dim lights of lanterns flickered above. Shadows grew long among the old, broken buildings where the poorest people lived, fought, and hoped.His little sister, Lila, waited nervously in their small room—a single stone room that barely kept out the cold. When he stepped inside, her tired eyes lit up with hope. "Did they say anything new? Are you not null anymore?"Aiden shook his head slowly. "No, Lila. The Bureau still says I'm null. But I won't stop trying."She held his hands tightly. "You'll find a way. You always do."Their bond was strong but delicate. Without their parents, they needed each other to stay strong.The city outside was alive with danger and whispered rumors. The Bureau's decision marked people for a hard life. But Aiden's spirit, though heavy, would not break.For days, he searched for work, moving quietly through the alleys and markets. Many in Elmsreach begged or stole to survive, but Aiden wanted something more.Then, one evening, a man named Korin found him. His face was weathered, his eyes sharp. "You're Aiden Cross, right? The null-born who keeps trying?"Aiden tensed but nodded."I know some work for someone like you—someone with guts and no fear," Korin said. "Come with me. You'll eat tonight."Korin took him to a hidden guild where fighters and traders worked in secret. Here, bloodlines didn't matter as much as courage and skill.Aiden began to grow stronger and earn trust. But with every step, he felt eyes watching him—whispers began of a boy who might change the rules.For now, the Bureau watched silently, unaware of the storm that was slowly rising with every move Aiden made.
