Chapter 1: The Beginning of the End

It was the year 2085, and the world had changed beyond recognition.

The discovery of magic had revolutionized everything, from medicine to transportation. The magic systems had become so advanced that even ordinary people could perform extraordinary feats.

It was a world of wonder and amazement, but also a world of danger.

But The power of magic had also brought with it new threats and challenges, and the world was on the brink of a catastrophic war.

The Eldritch, a group of powerful magic users, had risen to prominence in recent years.

They believed that magic was the key to unlocking the true potential of humanity, and that only those with magical ability should have access to it.

They had started to impose their will on the world, using their power to control and manipulate those around them.

Growing up in a world where magic was a part of everyday life, I was the odd one out. Unlike other children my age, I couldn't summon fire or heal wounds with a wave of my hand.

I was just an ordinary boy with no magical ability, living in a world where magic was everything. Those of us without magic were called Thrasher , while those with magic were known as the Eldritch. The corrupt system made life for the Walkers unbearable, while the Eldritch lived like nobility.

My parents are dead when i was a young kid leaving me to navigate this cruel and messed up world on my own. But I refused to be sorry for myself forever, so I dedicated myself to studying, hoping to change my life.

After years of studying intensely, I managed to enroll in the prestigious Luminary School of Magic.

The odds of a Walker getting into this school were only 14%, and I was the lucky one who made it.

But even though I was accepted, I couldn't shake the feeling of being an average student in a school designed for magical prodigies.

And so, began the most challenging time of my life. The Eldritch students, with their superior magical abilities, looked down on us Thrasher and took pleasure in tormenting us.

I was constantly ridiculed and humiliated, but I refused to give up on magic. I spent most of my time in the library, reading about different magic systems and trying to understand the complex theories behind them. I also delved into some self defense, hoping to find a way to counter the magic with physical prowess.

But the comparison between old martial arts and modern magic was still a bit bizarre.

One day, as I was leaving school, I was confronted by a group of my classmates. They had been waiting for me, and they were angry. They had grown tired of my attempts to excel and wanted to put me in my place.

I tried to run, but they caught up with me quickly. They surrounded me, their wands at the ready.

"You think you're better than us?" one of them sneered.

With a shaking voice, I said, "I did nothing to you guys. Why don't you leave me alone?"

"Ha ha ha! Look at this hotshot. Your existence itself is disgusting. Why won't you just die?"

The kids began to chant, their voices rising in unison as magic swirled around them. Bolts of arcane energy shot from their hands, crashing into my me into a stone walls.I try desperately trying to deflect their barrage of spells.

But it was too much for me to handle, their combined power too great for me to withstand for long.

Through dimming vision, I saw the kids stand over me, readying a final, fatal strike. In that moment, as despair threatened to consume me, something unexpected happened.

A voice, strong and authoritative, resonated through the air, commanding attention. "Stop!"

Realizing the gravity of the situation, the bullies hesitated for a moment, their bravado crumbling. Fear flickered in their eyes as they glanced at each other, sensing that their actions were about to have serious consequences.

Without wasting another second, they turned on their heels and fled, disappearing into the distance like shadows in the night.

Kneeling down beside me, an old man sit besides me with a sad expression. "Are you alright son?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine care.

I mustered a weak smile and nodded in response. "Thank you for stepping in," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'll be fine."

The old man's eyes lingered on my battered form, concern etched on his face. "You've been through a lot," he said softly. "I think it would be best if you got some medical treatment. You shouldn't ignore your injuries."

I hesitated for a moment. The pain was undeniable, but I didn't want to burden anyone further. "I appreciate your concern, sir," I replied, mustering as much strength as I could. "But I think I'll be okay."

The old man's concern deepened as he observed the extent of my injuries. His eyes scanned my bruised and bloodied form, and his voice held a note of urgency. "Son, I understand your resilience, but it's crucial not to ignore the severity of your wounds. You need medical attention."

I shifted uncomfortably, torn between my desire to tough it out and the old man's genuine care. My voice trembled slightly as I spoke. "I... I appreciate your concern, sir, but I really think I'll be fine. I've been through worse."

I swallowed the lump in my throat and mustered a small smile. "Thank you, sir. I genuinely appreciate your kindness. It's rare to find someone who cares these days."

With a nod of gratitude, I turned away from the old man and started walking towards home.

While i was walking home with my injuries while lost in deep thought when a sudden rustling in the bushes interrupted me. I tensed, ready for whatever might come my way, but it turned out to be just a stray cat, darting across my path.

"Stupid cat," I muttered under my breath.

"Hey, watch your language," a voice said from behind me.

I spun around, my senses on high alert. Standing there was a woman, tall and striking with blond hair and piercing blue eyes. Her presence exuded confidence.

"Who are you?" I asked cautiously, while exhaling so fast.

"I'm Amelia," she replied, extending her hand towards me. "And you must be Lloyd Rash."

My heart skipped a beat. How did she know my name? I eyed her suspiciously, unsure of her intentions. "What do you want from me?" I asked, my voice laced with caution.

Amelia's smile was filled with a sense of purpose. "We've been keeping a close eye on you, Lloyd. I've witnessed the mistreatment you've endured."

I hesitated, my emotions warring within me. 'Could I trust her?', But the pain from my recent encounter with my classmates was still fresh, and the offer of support was tempting.

"What do you want?" I asked.

Amelia motioned she goona walk me home while she was talking. As we walked, she began to explain.

"I'm part of a resistance group called the Order. We fight against the tyranny of the Eldritch, believing that magic less should be treated equal to and be accessible to all, not just a select few. We've been gathering intelligence and resources, preparing for a decisive strike against the Eldritch's stronghold."

"But what's that have to do with me?"

Amelia paused, her gaze steady as she looked into my eyes. "Lloyd, we've been watching you because we believe you have something special within you. Despite not having magical abilities, you possess a resilience and determination that sets you apart. We need individuals like you, those who can challenge the status quo and bring about change."

I looked at Amelia skeptically. "What could I possibly offer?,I don't know any thing except studying."

Amelia said firmly. "Your ability to think critically and strategically. We need people who are willing to be a part of the planning, who want to be involved in every step of the way. We don't want foot soldiers, Lloyd. We want people who are dedicated to this cause, who want to make a real difference in the world."

Her words struck a chord with in me. I knew that i couldn't just sit back and watch as the world burned.But i want figure what i want before i decide to become a hero.

"Although you're speech was good, i think im gonna pass for now may next time we meet i will consider joining.

Amelia nodded, her expression understanding. "I respect your decision, Lloyd. It's important to take the time to figure out what you truly want. But remember, the offer still stands. If you ever feel ready to join us and fight for a better world, don't hesitate to reach out."

With that, Amelia bid me farewell and disappeared into the night, leaving me alone with my thoughts. Walking the rest of the way home, I couldn't help but mull over Amelia's words. The idea of joining the resistance, of standing up against the oppression of the Eldritch, resonated deeply within me.

As I approached my small apartment, the bruises and cuts from my encounter with my classmates throbbed with pain. It was a stark reminder of the injustice that permeated this world, the stark divide between the haves and the have-nots.

Sighing, I stepped inside and made my way to the bathroom. I carefully tended to my wounds, applying ointment and bandages. The pain was a constant reminder of my vulnerability, but it also fueled my determination to change things.

I sat on the edge of my bed, lost in thought. Joining the resistance meant stepping into a dangerous world, one filled with uncertainty and risks. But it also meant standing up for what I believed in, fighting for equality and justice. It meant making a difference, no matter how small.