Chapter 1: The Beginning
A buzz of excitement and nervous energy filled the air. Some students were thrilled; others, terrified. The Awakening Ceremony was imminent, the day every student would attempt to awaken their Mana Heart. This was crucial; the element of their awakened Mana Heart would determine their college options, granting them a month of specialized training before the crucial college entrance exam. But first, they had to awaken a Mana Heart.
The school hummed with anticipation. In one classroom, a student turned to his classmate, bewildered. "Why is everyone so noisy today?"
His classmate's eyes widened. "You don't know? This afternoon is the Awakening Ceremony!"
The first student's face fell. "What? Already? I'm not prepared! What if I don't awaken? This is terrifying!"
A student behind them chuckled. "What's so scary? Everyone has a chance. If you don't awaken today, you can try again next year." He laughed again, turning away.
The nervous student panicked. "What am I going to do? I need to pray!"
The classroom erupted in laughter. A wave of varied emotions, the excitement, fear, anticipation washed over the room.
Meanwhile, near the window, Mike sat calmly, seemingly absorbed in the beauty of the world outside. His best friend, Jek, leaned in. "Why are you so calm? Are you confident?"
Mike turned, a serene expression on his face. "What's the big deal? It's not that hard. A water or wind Mana Heart is good enough for me."
Jek's eyes widened. "Eh? Why not aim for a rare element like light or darkness?"
Mike shrugged. "What's the point? I don't crave fame or attention. I just want to cultivate peacefully and get into the college I want."
"At least dream big, bro! Awakening a powerful element would give you a great reputation."
Mike sighed. "You can have that. I don't want the responsibility; it's too much trouble." He turned back to the window.
Jek shook his head and joined the other students' excited chatter.
Mike continued his quiet contemplation. "What's all the fuss about? I just want to be strong, go to college, cultivate peacefully, and…" He blushed, trailing off, a secret thought unspoken.