Millycheick

Caden is an ordinary young man—or so it seems. For weeks, his nights have been haunted by enigmatic dreams in which a mysterious woman warns him of an imminent danger. When his life takes a sudden turn, he discovers that he possesses an elemental power, an ancient energy symbolized by a zodiac mark on his body. Yet one detail haunts him: he knows he wasn’t born with this mark, and his past before the age of nine is a complete blank.

In his search for answers, Caden encounters others who bear similar marks, each tied to an elemental power and representing a zodiac sign. These chosen ones, known as the Zodiac Mages, are guardians of a fragile balance, but their unity shattered years ago. Now, their powers have become the target of those willing to go to any lengths to claim them.

To counter this growing threat, Caden sets out to rebuild the Brotherhood of Zodiac Mages. Together, they must overcome their differences, restore the harmony of old, and face an enemy whose strength is beyond imagination. But every alliance comes with its own risks: caught between friendship and betrayal, Caden must discern allies from foes and uncover the truth about his own origins.

The Zodiac Mages

"At the time, we rescued a young woman. She seemed distressed, scared. It was even Aletha who brought her back. She insisted we help her... and we did. But we never should have."

Caden frowned, already guessing what was coming next.

"Yes. She was one of those hunting us today. When she realized we'd figured her out, she called for reinforcements. We were quickly surrounded. The house became a battlefield. There were more of them, better prepared." The fire started on the ground floor… We were fighting inside a burning trap.

A heavy silence fell. Caden, tense, asked softly,

"Is that what brought back Aletha's memories… the fire?"

"I think so too," Zetch replied. "She still blames herself, even though she never talks about it."

He paused, then continued in a more serious tone, "During the fight, Aletha was almost seriously injured. The attack came from behind her… but Nick stepped in. He took the blow instead."

Caden clenched his fists, his throat tightening.

"Then… debris fell from the ceiling, creating an impenetrable barrier between him and us. I tried to reach him, but it was too late." He was seriously injured, and the house was about to collapse. He looked at me one last time... and made me promise to take care of Aletha, to save her.

Zetch took a breath, his eyes shining despite himself.

"I had no choice. I fled with her. And a few seconds later, the house exploded. There was nothing left."

A heavy silence followed. Caden, his throat tight, murmured,

"And ever since, she's carried this weight..."

"Yes. She's always felt responsible. She's never forgiven herself. And that's why she's so hard on you. She doesn't want to get attached anymore... for fear of reliving that pain."

Caden sighed deeply, suddenly feeling heavy. He thought about Aletha, her abrupt manner, her outbursts of anger... and the pain she hid so well.

"I understand better now," he said. "Thank you for telling me all this, Zetch."

Zetch placed a hand on Caden's shoulder, and for the first time in a long time, some of their shared pain seemed to dissipate in the shared silence.

The Flames of Silence