BearBrush

Varek Solin was born into a world where power is given at birth. On his 10th birthday, every child opens their Vault, a source of mana that will shape their future. In a society divided by wealth and rank, those born into riches are granted Diamond Vaults, while the poor settle for Bronze Vaults, their strength bound by fate.

But Varek’s path was never meant to follow the ordinary. With a Bronze Vault in his chest, his future seems set—until a war between humans and demons turns his world upside down. Amidst the chaos of battle, Varek encounters a force beyond his understanding—a mysterious power that will alter the course of his life.

As his powers awaken and the world around him shifts, Varek must face the truth of what lies within him. A boy from the lowest ranks, with a vault like no other. What is this power that calls to him from the shadows? And how far will he go to understand it?

In a world where strength determines your fate, Varek Solin will soon learn that the greatest power lies not in the vaults of wealth, but in the mysteries buried beneath the surface.

The Shadow's Beneath

Inside their small house, late at night, Knox Cthul sat hunched over a mysterious old scroll, his eyes shining with determination. The candlelight flickered, casting shadows across his face.

Varek, Dicio, and Vikas watched from the doorway, utterly confused.

"…What is he doing?" Varek whispered.

Dicio leaned in, squinting at the scroll. "'The Ultimate Guide to Winning a Woman's Heart.'" He snorted. "No way. No way."

Knox suddenly whipped around, looking completely serious. "This is important."

Vikas raised an eyebrow. "You're studying a scroll… on dating?"

Knox nodded, dead serious. "Not just dating. Respectful and meaningful courtship." He pointed at them. "You fools don't understand the complex art of romance."

Dicio burst out laughing. "You sound like an old man."

Knox ignored him, unrolling more of the scroll. "Step one: Be confident, but not arrogant." He nodded to himself. "I got that."

Varek crossed his arms. "You're already a green flag. You don't need a scroll for this."

Knox waved him off. "Step two: Genuine compliments. Women appreciate sincerity." He glanced at the group. "Vikas, your ice abilities are impressive."

Knox nodded. "See? Works perfectly."

Dicio wiped a tear from his eye, trying to hold back laughter. "You're really serious about this, huh?"

Knox slammed his hand on the table. "Of course! This is a warrior's duty! Just like mastering battle, one must master the way of the heart!"

Varek sighed. "You're overthinking it."

Knox ignored him, flipping to the next part of the scroll. "Step three: Find common interests." He rubbed his chin. "If I meet someone who likes daggers and fighting, it's over. That's my future wife."

Vikas rolled his eyes. "You're impossible."

Dicio smirked. "Nah, let him cook. Maybe one day we'll see Knox Cthul, Master of Romance."

Knox stood up dramatically. "Exactly."

Varek groaned. "I regret walking into this conversation."

But despite all the teasing, Knox just smiled, rolling up his scroll. Because deep down, he knew—he wasn't just chasing romance. He wanted something real—a partner who understood his way of life.

Flashback (7)