In the land of Presa, three powerful kings—known as the Elemental Sorcerers—ruled the realms. Caelus, the Air King, commanded the north. Ignatius, the Fire King, ruled the south. Terren, the Earth King, governed the central kingdom. The Water King had been absent for centuries, leaving the coastal towns under the leadership of strong figures like King Alastor. A revered warrior, Alastor earned the respect of all three sorcerers.

Nestled along a warm coastal cape was the beautiful kingdom of Elysia, wrapped in lush green pastures and blessed with fertile soil. Its mild climate made it a favored home, and the kingdom thrived under King Alastor’s rule. Here lived Nix, a young man on the cusp of a daunting journey.

“Nix! Nix! Time to get up!” His mother's sweet voice called him from below. He stood before the mirror, adjusting his short cape. With bright ruby eyes, raven-black hair, and sun-kissed skin, Nix was of average build and height. Today, he turned 21, but instead of excitement, he felt a wave of uncertainty.

Born into a family of sorcerers specializing in healing, Nix struggled with magic. His parents ran a small clinic, and his twin sisters managed a bustling apothecary, yet Nix’s own abilities were woefully underwhelming. He tried countless spells, but more often than not, he either caused unintended explosions or achieved nothing at all. Now, he was set to leave for the north, to train at the Magic Academy.

Descending the stairs, bag slung over his shoulder, Nix joined his family at the table. “There he is—the next great sorcerer of Elysia!” his father exclaimed, clapping him heartily on the back. Nix nearly toppled over, much to his sisters’ amusement. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, Dad. I haven’t even figured out my magic yet,” Nix muttered, trying to settle back into his seat.

“You will! At the academy, you’ll discover your talent,” his mother said, placing a plate in front of him. “Your grandparents were skilled in fire magic, but I could never get the hang of it.” She smiled. Nix frowned, recalling how he’d nearly set himself ablaze during his own attempts at fire spells.

“The academy is in Eoten, one of the largest kingdoms,” Elara, the elder twin, added. “In a city that big, you’re bound to find your strength.” She smiled warmly, adding more strawberries to his plate. “And if not magic, maybe you’ll at least find a girlfriend,” Elfreda teased, stealing a strawberry from him. Nix shot her a glare. “I’m going to focus on my studies. I don’t have time for that,” he grumbled, earning chuckles from everyone.

“Don’t tease your brother on his last day home,” his mother scolded lightly. “Look at the time! You’ll miss your ship!” She quickly packed snacks into his bag. “Come on, let’s all walk down to the docks with him,” Nix’s father urged, and the family cleared the table and left the house together.

The docks had always been Nix’s favorite place, where he spent hours painting the various ships that came into port. Today, however, would be different—this time, he’d be sailing on one.

As they reached the pier, his mother cupped his face, her ruby eyes locking with his. “I love you, Nix. You’re amazing, and you’ll do great things. Don’t forget to write,” she said, pulling him into a tearful embrace. Before Nix could reply, the rest of his family joined in, engulfing him in a suffocating group hug. “I won’t make it to my training if you don’t let go—I can’t breathe!” Nix laughed.

“We love you, little Nixie. I can’t believe you’re 21 and leaving home already. Happy birthday.” Elfreda handed him a small parcel. Nix blinked in surprise—he hadn’t expected a gift, especially from his boisterous sister.

“Thanks, Elfreda. What is it?” he asked curiously. “It’s a surprise! Don’t open it until you’re alone, okay?” She winked. Elara raised an eyebrow. “What are you up to?” she asked suspiciously. “Nothing at all!” Elfreda grinned.

The bell rang, signaling it was time to board. With one final embrace, Nix said his goodbyes and joined eight other young sorcerers on the ship. As they sailed into the late afternoon sun, with clear skies and calm seas, the adventure he had long imagined had finally begun.