The town of Luminara, nestled within the heart of the Blue Nation, was a blend of the old world's remnants and the new world's innovations. The cobblestone streets, relics of a time before the stars fell, meandered through the town, telling tales of history with every worn-out stone. On either side, buildings rose, some ancient with walls bearing the scars of the past, while others were newer, constructed from salvaged materials and imbued with the essence of the present.
Luminara was alive with activity. Market stalls lined the streets, their makeshift canopies fluttering in the gentle breeze. Vendors showcased their wares, from fresh produce to handcrafted trinkets. The air was filled with a medley of scents: the sweet aroma of baked goods, the earthy scent of fresh vegetables, and the tantalizing smell of sizzling meats.
Above, the sky was a canvas of oranges and purples, signaling the approach of twilight. Lanterns began to light up, not with the artificial glow of electricity, but with the ethereal blue fire unique to the Blue Nation. The flames, conjured by the nation's leader, danced gracefully, casting a serene glow on the streets and reflecting in the eyes of the townsfolk.
In the distance, the remnants of the old city wall stood tall, a silent guardian bearing witness to Luminara's resilience. Beyond the wall, the wilderness stretched out, a testament to the world's rebirth after the cataclysm.
As Kian walked, he felt the weight of history and the vibrancy of the present. The town, rebuilt from the ashes of the past, bore scars of the day the stars fell and changed the course of humanity forever. Kian's footsteps echoed softly on the cobblestones, each step a reminder of the journey he was about to embark on. As he walked, he observed the townsfolk going about their evening routines. A young girl, no older than six, manipulated a tiny whirlwind to playfully lift her doll into the air. An elderly man, his back hunched with age, conjured a small flame in his palm to light his pipe, the fire casting an orange glow on his wrinkled face.
Kian's gaze drifted to a group of teenagers, not much older than him, practicing their abilities. One of them, with a focused expression, was trying to shape water from a nearby fountain into intricate patterns. Another was levitating small stones, arranging them in a floating spiral. Their laughter and camaraderie filled the air, a stark contrast to Kian's own school experiences. Memories of being isolated and ridiculed for his lack of abilities flooded back. The whispers, the pointing fingers, the name-calling – "Null", "Blank", "Void". They stung, even now.
He shook his head, trying to dispel the memories. The past was the past, and today was about the future. He looked up at the lanterns, their blue flames flickering like silent sentinels. The legend said that the leader of the Blue Nation could summon this ethereal fire, using it to light up the entire nation every night. It was a symbol of hope, a beacon in the darkness, reminding everyone of the strength and unity of the Blue Nation.
Kian's thoughts drifted to the history lessons from school. The day the stars fell, the world was engulfed in chaos. Massive explosions, followed by deadly radiation, wiped out a significant portion of the population. But from the ashes of that cataclysmic event, humanity emerged changed. The survivors found themselves imbued with abilities, gifts from the cosmos. While many had elemental powers, a select few possessed unique and extraordinary abilities that set them apart.
The initial years after the event were tumultuous. Fear, mistrust, and power struggles led to conflicts. But over time, five great nations emerged, each named after the predominant color of their land and skies. While Kian sometimes wondered about the originality of naming nations after colors, he couldn't deny the significance. The Blue Nation, with its serene landscapes and azure skies, was his home.
As he neared the town hall, Kian's pace slowed. The enormity of the examination weighed on him. This was his chance to prove himself, to show that he was more than just a "Null". Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself for what lay ahead.
The town hall's interior was vast, with high ceilings adorned with intricate mosaics depicting the history of the Blue Nation. At the far end of the room sat the examiners, each one distinct in their appearance and demeanor.
To the far left sat an older woman, her silver hair pulled back into a tight bun. Wrinkles etched her face, telling tales of wisdom and experience. Her sharp blue eyes, however, were as keen as a hawk's, missing nothing.
Beside her was an older man, his bald head reflecting the soft blue light of the lanterns. A long white beard flowed down his chest, and his eyes, though clouded with age, sparkled with intelligence. He constantly scribbled notes, pausing occasionally to adjust the spectacles perched on his nose.
The third examiner was younger, probably in his late twenties. He had short, curly brown hair and wore glasses that gave him an academic look. His posture was relaxed, but his eyes were constantly moving, observing every detail. He seemed to be the most approachable of the four, with a kind smile that occasionally played on his lips.
But it was the fourth examiner that drew Kian's attention the most. He was of medium build and had an aura of quiet power around him. His jet-black hair was tied back in a sleek ponytail, revealing a sharp, angular face with piercing green eyes that seemed to see right through you. But what was most striking about him were his hands. Each finger bore a ring, each one unique and intricately designed. Some had gemstones that glowed faintly, while others had symbols that Kian recognized as ancient runes. The rings seemed to pulse with energy, and Kian couldn't help but feel that they were more than just decorative. He wore his white jacket with an air of authority, the emblem of the Sky embroidered prominently on her chest.
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This man exuded an air of mystery and authority. Even though he sat with a relaxed posture, there was a tension in the air around him, as if he was a coiled spring ready to release at any moment. His white jacket was open, revealing a dark blue shirt underneath, and the emblem of the Sky seemed to shine brighter on his chest than on the others.
As Kian approached, the man with the rings locked eyes with him, a small, enigmatic smile playing on his lips. It was clear that this examination was going to be unlike any other.
Kian took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart. The weight of the situation pressed down on him, but he reminded himself of his aunt's words, drawing strength from them. He approached the table, each step echoing in the vast hall.
The man with the rings leaned forward slightly, his green eyes never leaving Kian's. "Kian Nixon," he began, his voice deep and resonant, "Welcome to the examination. I trust you understand the gravity of this moment?"
Kian nodded, swallowing hard. "Yes, sir."
The older woman to the left cleared her throat, "Before we proceed, let us introduce ourselves. I am Examiner Liora, a representative of the Blue Nation's educational council."
The bald man with the beard gave a nod, "Examiner Thorne, from the defense sector."
The younger man with glasses smiled warmly, "Examiner Felix, I specialize in ability research."
The man with the rings paused for a moment, letting the anticipation build. "I am Examiner Caelum. I oversee special cases and ensure that the potential of every individual is recognized and nurtured." The way he said 'special cases' sent a shiver down Kian's spine.
Caelum continued, "Now, Kian, we understand that you have yet to discover your ability. This is rare, but not unheard of. Today, we hope to help you uncover it."
Kian nodded, feeling a mix of hope and anxiety. "I appreciate the opportunity."
Liora interjected, "Before we delve deeper, tell us what you know about the history of our abilities and the significance of this examination."
Kian took a moment to gather his thoughts. "Years ago, stars fell from the sky, causing massive destruction. The explosions were devastating, but the radiation that followed was even worse, wiping out a significant portion of the population. Those who survived underwent changes, manifesting abilities. These abilities vary, with some being common elemental manipulations, while others are unique and powerful."
He continued, "The aftermath of this event led to wars, chaos, and the eventual formation of the five nations. I'm from the Blue Nation, where our leader has the ability to produce blue fire, which lights our streets every night. This examination is crucial for people like me. It determines where we'll receive our education and training based on our abilities."
Caelum's eyes seemed to gleam with interest. "Very well put, Kian. Now, let's proceed with the examination."
Felix handed Kian the clear orb again. "Hold this and try to channel any energy or emotion you feel into it."
Kian hesitated for a moment, then took the orb. As he held it, memories of his aunt's encouragement, the bullying he faced, and his own determination swirled within him. He focused on the orb, willing it to react.
The room was silent, the tension palpable. Everyone's eyes were fixed on the orb in Kian's hand, waiting for a sign, a change, anything that would indicate his latent ability.
And then, something began to happen.
The orb's pulsing grew more intense, its rhythm quickening. The once gentle blue hue transformed into a tempestuous storm of colors, swirling with navy, fiery red, and streaks of gold. The room's atmosphere grew thick, and a palpable pressure began to build, pressing down on everyone present.
Examiner Felix's papers began to flutter, lifting off the table and swirling in the air. Liora's stern expression turned to one of alarm as she struggled to keep her belongings grounded. The very walls of the examination room seemed to groan under the strain.
Caelum, the man adorned with rings, stood firm, though his rings shimmered and vibrated in response to the orb's power. "Kian," he called out, his voice echoing with authority, "you must control it!"
But Kian was lost in the storm of his emotions, the weight of years of uncertainty and the burning desire to prove himself now unleashed.
Suddenly, a sharp crack echoed through the room. The orb had developed a hairline fracture, and from it, a brilliant light began to seep out, casting the room in a blinding glow.
Thorne, the representative from the defense sector, shouted over the chaos, "We need to contain it!"
But Caelum was already in motion. He approached Kian, his rings glowing brightly, and began to chant in a language that sounded ancient and powerful. The pressure in the room began to wane, and the swirling papers started to settle.
As the light from the orb dimmed, Kian, exhausted and drenched in sweat, collapsed to his knees. Caelum caught him, steadying the young man.
"You have a raw, untamed power," Caelum said, his voice filled with a mix of concern and admiration. "It's been years since I've seen such a reaction."
Kian looked up, his eyes filled with tears. "I... I didn't know."
Liora, regaining her composure, spoke up, "The Tecs were established to train individuals with unique abilities. Each Tec has its own philosophy and methods. SoraTec emphasizes understanding and harmony with one's power. YukiTec focuses on discipline and precision, while KasaiTec believes in strength and resilience."
Felix added, "Your display today suggests you have a deep connection with your power, making SoraTec a suitable place for you."
Caelum nodded in agreement. "I am from SoraTec. We will help you harness this power, teach you to control it. You have a responsibility, Kian. With training, you can be a force for good."
Kian nodded, taking in the information. "I want to learn. I don't want to be a danger."
Caelum smiled, "Then welcome to SoraTec."