VERSATILE MAGE: RISE OF A LEGEND

Sunlight streamed through the window of Light's bedroom, casting a warm glow that slowly nudged him awake. The early morning light revealed the room's elegant furnishings: rich wooden furniture, intricate rugs, and shelves filled with books on magic theory and history. He groaned softly, burying his face deeper into the soft pillows as he tried to prolong the last moments of slumber. The room was bathed in a gentle glow, casting shadows that danced along the walls adorned with sketches of fantastical creatures and magical symbols.

After some time,Light stretched and yawned,stretching beneath the warmth of his bedcovers, Light took a moment to listen to the soft hum of Bo City waking up. Birds chirped in the trees outside, and the distant murmur of the city began to fill the air. After feeling the comforting weight of his blankets before throwing them aside and sitting up. From his bed, he felt the coolness of the wooden floor beneath his feet, a familiar comfort.

From his window, he could see the majestic peaks of the mountains that encircled Bo City, cradling it in a natural fortress of rock and greenery. Nestled deep in the south of the country, Bo City lay hidden within these mountains, a bustling haven of magical activity and vibrant life.

Light got out of bed and crossed to the window, pulling back the curtains fully. The view of the city below always filled him with a sense of wonder. With a population of about a million, Bo City was alive with the energy of its inhabitants. In the center stood the Silver Commerce Tower, its 350-meter height making it the tallest building in the city. The sunlight glinted off its glass facade, creating dazzling reflections that danced across the streets below.

Before starting his day, Light stepped out onto the rooftop of his home. Stepping out onto the roof terrace, Light inhaled deeply, filling his lungs with the crisp morning air tinged with the scent of pine and distant city life. Feeling the sun's warmth on his face, Light took a deep breath, savoring the moment.

Here, under the vast sky, he practiced the exercises his eldest sister, Athena, had taught him. Athena was now studying at the Imperial College, the top magic college in the country, but her teachings stayed with him. He moved through the forms, feeling the flow of energy and strength in his body, connecting with the world around him.

After his exercises, Light took a quick shower, feeling the cool water wash away the last remnants of sleep. After dressing in his favorite blue tunic and trousers, Light descended the stairs just as his mother, Mei Maya, called out.

Light's mother, Mei Maya, was bustling around the kitchen, her movements graceful and efficient. Despite her demanding role as Vice Elder of the Bo City Magic Association, she always made time for her family. She glanced up and smiled as Light entered the dining room.

Light entered the dining room with a smile. "Good morning, Mom."

"Good morning, Light," Mei greeted him. "You're up early. Your sisters are still getting ready for school, but it looks like you're all set for the day."

The table was laden with a delicious spread: freshly baked bread, fruit, eggs, pancakes and a pot of steaming tea. 

As Light dug into his breakfast, his father, Sun Jiexi, entered the dining room. Sun Jiexi was the principal of the second-best public magic high school in Bo City, a position that demanded both respect and authority. His presence in the room brought a sense of calm and stability.

"Good morning, Light," Sun Jiexi greeted, ruffling Light's hair as he sat down. "Are you skipping classes today?"

Light hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah, Dad. School just teaches boring theories. I want to learn something real, something exciting."

Sun Jiexi raised an eyebrow but smiled knowingly. "School teaches theories that students can understand at your age. It's important to build a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced topics."

Light sighed, feeling a bit guilty but still determined. "I know, Dad. But I want to be prepared for when I awaken. I want to be ready for anything."

Sun Jiexi chuckled and shook his head. "Just remember, there's a reason why the curriculum is designed the way it is. Don't rush through your education. Every step is important."

"I'll keep that in mind," Light said, nodding. He appreciated his father's advice, even if he didn't always agree with it.

"So, what's on your agenda for today?" Sun Jiexi asked.

"I'm planning to visit Old Man Ying," Light replied, taking a bite of his pancakes. "He's been telling me some interesting stories about the history of our city and the magic world."

Sun Jiexi nodded thoughtfully. 

"Old Man Ying is a wise man. There's much you can learn from him."

Mei joined them at the table, bringing a plate of fresh fruit. "Just be careful, Light. Some of his stories can be... a bit outlandish."

Light smiled. "I know, Mom. But they're still fascinating. Besides, he's always been kind to me."

As the family continued their morning routine, Light's sisters were still in their rooms, bathing and getting ready for their own school day. The kitchen remained a hub of activity and conversation.

After getting dressed and having breakfast,Light stepped outside into the crisp morning air. He decided to explore the city, enjoying the day off. 

Bo City is an average-sized city with a population of around one million, nestled deep in the mountains and surrounded by lush greenery. The city was known for its Underground Holy Spring, a special magic pond that could accelerate magical cultivation. Though the full extent of its secrets was closely guarded by the Bo City Magic Association.

The streets were already bustling with activity. 

As Light walked down the bustling streets, he observed the blend of ancient and modern elements that characterized Bo City. Traditional stone buildings stood alongside sleek, modern structures.Vendors set up their stalls, displaying an array of goods from fresh produce to magic stones and other enchanted items.Shopkeepers were opening their stores, and children played in the streets, their laughter echoing through the alleyways.

As Light wandered through the marketplace, he greeted familiar faces and stopped to chat with a few of the vendors. The air was filled with the scents of various street foods, and the atmosphere buzzed with the hum of conversations and bartering.

Light's steps eventually led him to the base of the Silver Commerce Tower. He craned his neck to look up at its gleaming height, marveling at its grandeur. The tower stood as a symbol of the city's progress and prosperity.

Continuing his walk, Light made his way toward the outskirts of the city, where the landscape became more rugged and the sounds of the bustling city faded into the background. Here, behind the academy, lived Old Man Ying, a retired gatekeeper who had once guarded the academy's back gate. The old man's cottage was nestled against the mountains, surrounded by trees and the serenity of nature.

Light approached the cottage and knocked on the door. The door creaked open, and Old Man Ying's wrinkled face broke into a smile when he saw Light.

"Ah, Light! It's good to see you, my boy," the old man greeted warmly.

"Good morning, Old Man Ying," Light replied with a smile. "I came to help you with the leaves. It's autumn, after all."

Old Man Ying chuckled. "You're a good lad. Come on, then."

Together, they set to work sweeping the fallen leaves. The task was simple, but Light enjoyed the quiet companionship of the old man. The rhythmic swish of the brooms and the rustling of the leaves were soothing, and the peaceful environment was a welcome change from the bustling city.

After they finished, Old Man Ying invited Light to sit with him on the porch. The old man poured them both a cup of tea, and they sat in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the tranquility.

"Light, your awakening ceremony is coming up soon, isn't it?" Old Man Ying asked, breaking the silence.

Light nodded. "Yes, it is. I'm both excited and nervous."

Old Man Ying smiled kindly. "That's natural. You're on the brink of a great journey, my boy. Your time will come."

Old Man Ying's gaze grew distant, as if lost in thought. "Light, have you researched on totem beasts I told you about?" he asked suddenly.

Light nodded his head. "I've heard you mention them, but I didn't researched that much as information is very limited."

The old man's eyes twinkled with a mixture of sadness and wisdom. "There's much to learn, and I fear there's little time left for me to tell you. But one day, perhaps, you'll understand the significance of the totem beasts."

After their long conversation, Light helped Old Man Ying with a few more chores around the cottage. When it was time to leave, the old man patted him on the shoulder.

"Take care, Light. And remember, there's more to magic than what the Magic Association teaches."

"I will, Old Man Ying. Thank you," Light replied.

Before Light could ask more, Old Man Ying stood up, signaling the end of their conversation. "You've done well today, Light. Thank you for your help. Now, go on and enjoy the rest of your day."

"I will, Old Man Ying. Thank you," Light replied.

As he walked back to the city, Light felt a renewed sense of purpose. The old man's words echoed in his mind, reminding him that the world of magic was vast and full of mysteries.

Back in the city, Light met up with his best friend, Zhang Xiao Hou. Xiao Hou greeted him with a wide grin.

"Light! Where have you been all day?" Zhang Xiao Hou asked.

"I went to see Old Man Ying," Light replied.

Zhang Xiao Hou chuckled. "Of course you did. You're probably the only one who still visits him. No one else listens to his stories."

Light smiled. "His stories are worth listening to."

As they walked through the city, they passed by the Mu Family Villa, the most dominant magical family in Bo City. The European-style mansion was surrounded by well-maintained lawns, sparkling swimming pools, and luxurious amenities. 

"Imagine living in a place like that,"Zhang Xiao Hou said, gazing at the villa. "It's like something out of a fairy tale."

Light nodded. "It's impressive, but I'm happy with where I am."

They continued to the park, where they found a comfortable spot under a large tree. They talked about various topics, from their studies to their dreams for the future.

"How's Athena doing at the Imperial College?"  Zhang Xiao Hou asked.

"She's doing great," Light replied. "She's working hard and making a name for herself."

"That's awesome. She's incredible. She is one of the best female magician in Bo City and also Bo City Pride," Zhang Xiao Hou said with admiration.

Later, they joined their other friends who had been calling them all day. They played different outdoor games, their laughter and shouts filling the air. As the sun began to set, they sat in a circle, talking about their dreams of becoming powerful mages.

"I'm going to impress Mu Ningxue one day," one of the boys boasted.

"Good luck with that," another retorted. "Do you even know your place in society?"

They all laughed, and one of them turned to Light. "What about you, Light? Do you have your eyes on her too?"

Light shook his head. "I'm more focused on my studies."

"You're different, Light. Not like the other rich kids who look down on us," another friend said.

They kept talking about different topics till sun was ready to set.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Light made his way back home. The day had been filled with joy and meaningful conversations. He found solace under the ancient oak tree in his garden, the same tree he had played under as a child.

Sitting there, he thought about his sister Athena and her incredible achievements. He made a promise to himself, a vow that he would become the strongest mage of all time. With determination burning in his heart, he knew that he would face any challenge that came his way.

As the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, Light felt a sense of calm and purpose. He was ready for the journey ahead, and nothing would stand in his way.