A NEW JOURNEY

One year had passed since the last awakening ceremony, and the bustling market of Serenara came alive with vibrant colors and eager voices. Among the sea of people, a man named Iro Jaxon found himself engaged in a spirited bargaining session with a fellow merchant. The market, known as "Dawn's Bazaar," was renowned for its exotic wares and lively atmosphere.

Iro, a seasoned trader known for his fair dealings, stood behind his stall, displaying an array of goods. His eyes sparkled with determination as he haggled over the price of a pair of sturdy combat boots. The potential buyer, a shrewd negotiator, was relentless in his attempts to bring down the price, but Kael held firm at 35 red quantas.

"The price is fair, my friend," Iro asserted, his voice calm but firm. "These boots are of excellent quality, designed to endure the harshest conditions. Besides, I have my own reasons for not wavering on the price."

Curiosity flickered in the buyer's eyes as he leaned in, intrigued. "And what might those reasons be?"

Iro's gaze softened, revealing a hint of paternal pride. "My son, you see, is preparing to undergo the awakening ceremony at the Manifest Hall. It is a significant milestone in his life, and I aim to ensure he is well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead."

Intrigued by Iro's heartfelt explanation, the buyer nodded, acknowledging the importance of such a momentous occasion. After some final negotiation, a deal was struck, and the boots changed hands. Iro neatly packed the remaining goods, securing them for transport.

As the day drew to a close, Iro returned home, where his humble abode stood in the central part of the stronghold. The Jaxon household emanated warmth and coziness, adorned with tapestries depicting ancient legends and shelves lined with books and trinkets from distant lands.

Upon his arrival, Iro was greeted by his wife, Lin, a woman of grace and kindness. Her eyes shimmered with affection as she embraced him, knowing the trials he faced in the market. Their son, Kael, awaited his father's return, a youthful energy radiating from his every movement.

Kael, the young protagonist, possessed an air of quiet confidence and resilience. Tall and well-built, he boasted a striking appearance with his long, flowing black hair, adorned with golden tips. His facial features exuded a certain magnetism, drawing others to him with ease. Deep within his amber eyes burned a fierce determination, reflecting his unwavering spirit.

After sharing stories of the day's events, Iro and Lin gathered around the hearth, the crackling fire casting dancing shadows upon the room. It was then that Iro announced the news they had all been eagerly awaiting.

"Kael," he began, his voice filled with a mixture of pride and anticipation, "the time has come for your awakening. Tomorrow, we shall make our way to the Manifest Hall, where you will begin your journey to discover your spirit beast and unlock the powers within you."

Excitement lit up Kael's face as he absorbed his father's words. He had long yearned for this moment, envisioning the day when he would join the ranks of awakened guardians. Now, it was within his grasp, and the prospect of the unknown filled him with a heady mix of exhilaration and trepidation.

The chapter ends with the anticipation of Kael's awakening, a new chapter in his life waiting to unfold. As the dawn breaks on the horizon, a sense of destiny and adventure fills the air, setting the stage for Kael's extraordinary journey into the world of awakened spirits.