A city of iron spires and glowing rune-lamps rose before Kael Ashborne in the pale morning light, so different from the battered fences of Greenwood Orchard. Here, an intricate lattice of stone streets and metal arches replaced dirt roads and wooden gates. Overhead, snaking lines of faint bluish radiance flared along the city's defensive wards. Lively crowds bustled at the gates—traders with wagons, traveling scholars in modest robes, and caravans of would-be adventurers seeking fortunes among the capital's famed forging guilds. It was a sight that made Kael's heart flutter with excitement.

  He and Gethran had arrived at last. For nearly two weeks, they had trudged across lesser-known paths, ever cautious of runic beasts. They had encountered more forced-awakening foxes and even a boar tainted by suspicious runic scarring—distressing confirmations that some hidden threat still lingered beyond Greenwood. Yet finally, they stood at the city's threshold, with forging knowledge to pursue and a prospective mentor to meet.

  "I'll be meeting Arden. He's arranged this after reading my letters," Gethran said quietly to Kael as they joined a line of entrants at the city's grand gate. Soldiers stationed there kept a watchful eye on each traveler. "Arden is a tri-element forger—Fire, Earth, and Metal. He's known for advanced runic layering. If he accepts you as an apprentice, you'll witness forging methods far beyond orchard repairs."

  Kael nodded in subdued awe. He was nine years old, Red Core at its peak—a child in the eyes of most. But the orchard crisis had forced him to adapt quickly. He had awakened multiple elements publicly: Fire, Earth, and Light, plus the rumor that he also possessed Lightning and Metal. But only he knew the deeper truth of his Omni Physique. He felt a flicker of nerves. Could he keep Water and Air hidden behind the Void Veil Seal he'd begun practicing? I must, he told himself. Exposing them would draw questions. For now, it was safer to appear as a penta-element "S-tier"—impressive enough that few would suspect he was anything more.

  A GRAND ENTRANCE

  Once they cleared the checkpoint, Kael's eyes lit with amazement at the city's interior. Rows of tall stone-and-metal structures lined the main avenue, each fa?ade carved with runic designs that glowed faintly at corners. Gethran steered him through side streets, weaving past blacksmith shops with open-air forges and runic labs advertising "Weapon Imbuing Services" or "Precision Artifact Crafting."

  Every so often, Kael caught sight of an advanced forging station: thick metal plates infused with runes to stabilize heat or channel elemental energies. Skilled men and women hammered away at glowing ingots, while apprentices scurried about, carrying water buckets or runic chalk. The clang clang of metal on metal reverberated in the air, punctuated by flares of elemental light. It was all so different from Greenwood's humble barn forge.

  They moved deeper into the forging district, eventually arriving at a wide three-story workshop. A discreet sign overhead read "Arden's Atelier," its calligraphy formed of swirling runes. Outside the door, a pair of older apprentices carefully polished a newly made scythe, which still crackled with residual Fire mana. Gethran paused, inhaling as though steeling himself, then nodded to Kael. "This is it."

  MEETING ARDEN

  Inside, Kael found himself in an expansive main chamber lined with tool racks and cooled troughs for quenching. The walls bore intricate diagrams showing advanced layering of Earth and Fire runes, plus a separate chart for forging with Metal. Some of the drawings were so advanced that Kael could only guess at the final product. At the center, a tall man with streaks of gray in his hair hammered intently on a half-finished sword. Tiny arcs of Fire danced around the metal with each blow, merging with the faint Earth lines swirling beneath the blade's surface. When he sensed visitors, the man paused, turning to face them.

  "Gethran," he greeted in a deep, measured voice. "I've been awaiting your arrival." His gaze swept over Kael, eyes narrowing with keen interest. "And you must be the orchard lad."

  Gethran offered a cordial bow. "Arden, yes. This is Kael Ashborne. I wrote that he awakened unexpectedly soon after his ninth birthday, forging multiple elemental manipulations. I hope you'll give him a chance to demonstrate."

  Arden studied Kael for a moment. Then he set the half-forged sword aside, adjusting a runic glove on his left hand. "Child, is it true you can handle Fire, Earth, Light, plus two rarities—Lightning and Metal?" His tone was polite but laced with skepticism.

  Kael forced a calm smile. "That's correct, Master Arden." In truth, I also have Water and Air sealed. "I… overcame a dangerous siege at Greenwood. People there recognized my unique awakening."

  Arden's gaze flicked over Kael's slight frame. "I see. Then let's confirm it with a direct demonstration. If Gethran's letters are correct, you're beyond ordinary. But a reputation is one thing—show me proof."

  THE ELEMENTAL AFFINITY TEST

  Arden led them past the main forging area, down a short corridor into a smaller chamber lit by four crystals set in each corner. A thick stone podium stood at the center, carved with runic lines to measure elemental resonance. Kael breathed slowly to steady his nerves. Hide Water and Air. Keep to five elements.

  Gethran offered an encouraging nod from the side. Kael stepped forward, resting both palms on the podium's smooth surface. He focused on his newly practiced Void Veil Seal—a mental technique from his past-life knowledge adapted to cloak certain elements. He cut off all traces of Water and Air, letting only Fire, Earth, Light, Metal, and Lightning flow.

  In response, the crystal-lamps flickered, each one showing a different hue. For Fire, a bright red glow flared. Earth triggered a deep brownish shimmer. Light manifested as pure white radiance. Then two rarer surges: a crackle of electric yellow for Lightning, and a dull silver gleam for Metal.

  Arden watched these shifting colors with undisguised surprise. "Penta-element indeed. Quite a variety for a child." He stroked his chin. "And no obvious synergy meltdown—impressive."

  Kael suppressed a smile. The orchard had rarely witnessed an official test, but he'd grown used to carefully hiding more than half his real potential. "I do my best," he said softly.

  Arden exhaled, stepping away from the podium. "Elemental manipulation alone doesn't make you a forging genius. I've tested plenty who can juggle multiple elements but fail to inscribe runes properly. Let's see how you handle runic forging."

  A FORGING DEMONSTRATION

  He guided Kael back into the main workshop, where a broad anvil stood amid glowing braziers. An array of metal ingots lay on a bench nearby—some standard iron, others infused with Fire or Earth properties. The entire room smelled of hot metal and charred runic chalk.

  Arden folded his arms. "Forge something with Earth and Fire runes. Show me how you fuse them." A spark of challenge lit his eyes. "Let's say… a pendant that could produce a mild heat aura."

  Kael swallowed, trying not to let anxiety show. He recalled forging a HeatRune Plate on the road, but this environment was more advanced—and the eyes upon him sharper. Yet this is my chance, he reminded himself. He pulled a short apron from a hook, tying it around his waist. Gethran stepped aside, letting Kael stand at the anvil.

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  First, Kael selected a chunk of iron—standard, not pre-infused. He wanted to demonstrate that he could incorporate the elemental energies himself. Then he heated the metal over a brazier, channeling Fire mana to intensify the temperature. Sparks danced around his hands, but Kael kept them controlled. With each wave of heat, he hammered lightly, shaping a small oval disc. Once it cooled to a dull red, he reached for runic chalk. Carefully, he etched lines along the metal's rim. Earth lines first, to stabilize the pendant's core. Then, in the center, he added Fire runes that would grant warmth when activated.

  Bit by bit, Kael hammered the lines deeper, mindful not to let them break. The orchard forging had taught him to keep runic lines evenly spaced. Still, orchard-level forging was simpler than city-level work. He found himself sweating, pouring focus into each stroke so as not to mar the runes. In the background, he felt Arden's scrutiny, as though the mentor assessed every slip of the hammer.

  When the initial design was done, Kael inhaled, infusing the lines with a pulse of Earth manipulation. The runes glowed faintly, shifting into a stable pattern. Next came Fire. He guided a gentle wave of heat through the pendant's center, letting it merge with the Earth lines. A warm, orange glow flickered around the disc. Yes…

  He lifted the cooling pendant, murmuring a final phrase to seal the runic pattern. The metal no longer glowed hot to the touch, but a subtle warmth radiated outward.

  For a moment, Kael's heart hammered in his chest. Did I do enough?

  Arden stepped forward, accepting the pendant from Kael's outstretched hand. The older man studied the runes from various angles, squinting at the lines. Then he pressed a finger to the center, channeling a sliver of his own Fire. The pendant flared to life, emanating a soft, consistent heat.

  A slight nod. "Basic in structure, but well-formed. The Earth lines aren't perfectly symmetrical, but you've balanced them so they won't crack under regular use." He turned the pendant over, nodding once more. "For a boy who claims orchard forging experience only, this is… impressive indeed."

  Gethran exhaled in relief. Kael felt a surge of pride. But he also noticed Arden's gaze shift between him and the pendant with a thoughtful glint, as if suspecting that Kael's forging might hide something deeper. He mustn't guess how many elements I truly wield, Kael thought, carefully controlling his expression.

  PRAISE AND NEW EXPECTATIONS

  "Your forging skill is definitely beyond a novice orchard forger," Arden said at last. "The runes are carefully aligned, the layering well executed. I rarely see such precise chalk lines from a child. You show real promise."

  Kael bowed his head slightly. "Thank you, sir." Inside, tension ebbed as relief. The orchard's forging, plus his own mania for training, had paid off. He might still be far behind city experts, but at least he'd proven capable.

  At the back of the workshop, one of Arden's older apprentices—an angular-faced youth named Cedric—observed with mild surprise. He frowned, as if not fully convinced by a nine-year-old forging a stable item. Still, he said nothing, perhaps wary of contradicting his mentor.

  Arden motioned Kael aside. "Gethran's letters mention you overcame real beasts at Greenwood—a forced-awakening direwolf horde. That suggests you can handle real combat. I gather you also have illusions… or did, but illusions are overshadowed now. So you rely mainly on your penta-element manipulation?"

  "Yes, Master Arden. My illusions…are no longer needed," Kael replied softly. "I rely on forging and direct elemental spells, so I can improve those."

  Arden drummed his fingers on the nearest table. "I see. Then I'll be frank: I'd like to take you under my tutelage for at least a few months. I can teach advanced forging theory and layering methods. In return, you'll run errands, assist me in the workshop, and show me steady progress. At the end, if you show the growth I expect, I'll personally recommend you for the Academy's forging track." He paused, eyes narrowing. "But I demand absolute diligence. Slacking or half-hearted attempts won't be tolerated."

  Kael's pulse thudded. "I—I accept. Thank you."

  Gethran watched with a satisfied air. "I'll remain in the city for a while, continuing my forced-awakening research. Kael, remember your orchard roots. Don't let your forging overshadow your sense of caution." A faint smile tugged his lips. "But I trust you'll excel."

  In that moment, Kael felt a swell of emotion. He was stepping onto a bigger stage, forging in a city workshop known for advanced methods. With the orchard behind him, illusions put away, and his Omni Physique concealed in part, thiswas the next phase of his growth.

  EVENING'S ARRANGEMENTS

  By evening, Gethran concluded initial talks with Arden regarding Kael's lodging. The mentor had a modest side room in the workshop for an apprentice to stay, along with access to a basement library stocked with forging manuscripts. Kael would begin formal lessons the next day, starting with runic layering fundamentals and the forging of small gear components. In private, Gethran assured Kael that he would come by daily to check on him, share rumors, and see if any forced-awakening leads emerged.

  Before turning in, Kael found a quiet corner behind the workshop. He took the chance to practice Earthen Flame Patch once more, forming a circle of ground-based fire runes. This time, he refined the boundary lines, linking them in a near-seamless ring. When he triggered it, the patch lit with a steady burst of flame, more controlled than before.

  System NotificationEarthen Flame Patch has advanced to Basic, Lv.2.

  A flicker of triumph. Little by little, I'll refine every skill. He took a moment to catch his breath, heart fluttering with excitement. So much to learn in forging, so many spells to polish. I'll become unstoppable if I keep pushing myself.

  As the city's runic street lamps came alive in gentle hums, Kael returned inside, his mind brimming with anticipation. Tomorrow would see him taking direct forging lessons under Arden's guidance. He felt an undercurrent of anxiety—What if Arden suspected more than Kael admitted? Yet Kael knew the orchard's illusions were behind him. Runic forging was his future, and he had to give it everything.

  A SECRET RESOLVE

  Late that night, Kael lay in a small cot in the workshop's side room, the sounds of distant hammering drifting through the walls as Arden's older apprentices worked late. The faint glow of a single rune-lamp illuminated dusty shelves of forging manuals. Kael exhaled, letting his eyes drift shut. I can't rely on illusions. My forging must stand on its own.Summoning five elements publicly was already near scandalous; if they saw him also manipulate Water or Air, rumors could spread uncontrollably. Hiding half his power was no easy feat, but he'd done it in the orchard. He'd do so again, with even more caution.

  He recalled the orchard direwolf siege—the swirling illusions that once gave him an edge, overshadowed by his eventual reveals of Fire, Earth, Light, and more. Now illusions felt distant, replaced by forging skill. The orchard had taught him to never let up in training, to protect those who matter. I'll keep forging, keep learning, and keep my real secrets close. A slow, determined breath filled his lungs. I must, to unravel these forced-awakening horrors—and to be ready for any threat that arises.

  He drifted into restless sleep, mind dancing with images of runic lines and forging sparks. The day's test hovered in his thoughts. He had proven enough to Arden that the man recognized his potential. But the days ahead would test him in ways orchard forging never had—city forging, advanced runic layering, direct competition with older apprentices. Kael whispered a silent vow: he would not disappoint.

  STATUS SCREEN

  Name: Kael AshborneAge: 9Talent: SSS (Hidden)Core Grade: Red (Peak) — near OrangeLevel: 13EXP: 900 / 3500 (+300 EXP for succesful forging )Free Attribute Points: 0

  Attributes:

  Strength: 30Agility: 10Constitution: 30Intelligence: 36Spirit: 53

  Trait:

  Sage's Insight (Advanced comprehension of runic forging & elemental theory)

  Elemental Manipulation:

  Earth (Intermediate, Lv.4)Fire (Intermediate, Lv.3)Light (Intermediate, Lv.1)Lightning (Basic, Lv.1) (Secret)Metal(Basic, Lv.1) (Secret)Water (Intermediate, Lv.1) (Concealed via Void Veil)Air (Intermediate, Lv.1) (Concealed via Void Veil)

  Notable Spells & Skills:

  Earthen Snare (Intermediate, Lv.4)Ember Bolt (Intermediate, Lv.3)Stone Shield (Intermediate, Lv.1)Windflare Alarm (Intermediate, Lv.1)Warmth Ward (Basic, Lv.5)Phantom Veil (Basic, Lv.5) (overshadowed)Static Lash(Basic, Lv.2)Earthen Flame Patch (Basic, Lv.2 → improved)