THE_WORDSMITH

In this world, some say, the truth and the legends are the same. One such legend belonged to the protagonist, Valerian.

Valerian was an orphan, a boy blessed with a beautiful face, and everyone around him, could not help but want to play with him, till one day a prophet passing through their town pronounced him to be cursed. 

Since that day, the destiny of the boy seemed to have changed completely, he was shunned by everyone around him, and the gazes that were earlier filled with love and affection, now brimmed with disgust and hatred. 

The constant shunning and humiliation made the cheerful child grow up to be bitter and inexpectant. On his seventh birthday, things changed once again. 

This time, it was not the people around him who went through a change, but himself. As he grew up, Valerian became a legend in his own sense. 

The people sang of a boy, who could not speak, they shed tears for a boy, who could not grieve. He came from nowhere yet he was known everywhere. 

Would you like to know this legend? A story where a curse can become a blessing? A story of sacrifice, betrayal, determination, and secrets.

Valerian, The Legendary

Valerian was standing under the mural. For some reason, he felt someone was calling him and asking him to lift his head. However, when he raised his head, this around him changed in a blink. The young man found himself standing in a garden.

This place was something that he could not describe in his words. He was astounded by the sensation of calm and peace that came over him. This place wasn't anything he had ever seen before. He looked around him but did not see anyone else. Valerian opened his mouth and said, "Is anyone there?"

There was no response. This left the young man wondering what this place was. He looked around, but upon finding no clue, he sighed and sat down on the ground dejectedly. Then it suddenly clicked to him, "Am I dead?"

Junior Acolyte.