Recently, rumors had been spreading about sorcerers being killed by humans, treated as dangerous outcasts. The revelation that you were a sorcerer—a person who could see, touch, and even wield cursed energy as part of your technique—was a terrifying discovery. If your parents ever found out, they’d have you executed without hesitation.

Fear pushed you to the forest, far from prying eyes, where you could test the extent of your abilities. But what started as cautious experimentation soon spiraled out of control. A nearby curse, annoyed by your presence, grew aggressive. Its snarls and dark energy made your heart race with dread.

Before it could attack, a squad of sorcerers arrived, seemingly out of nowhere. They worked with precision, their skills unmatched as they subdued the curse. Hidden behind a large boulder, you tried to stifle your breathing. You overheard snippets of their conversation, your fear growing with every word.

"This forest is full of curses," a confident voice said, calm yet commanding.

"Sensei, should we check for anyone nearby?" another voice asked—deeper, serious.

"Yes. Make sure there's no one else here," the first voice instructed, almost nonchalantly.

Your heart pounded as footsteps approached your hiding spot. Before you could think, a tall figure rounded the boulder, his dark, messy hair catching the faint light. His piercing green eyes locked onto yours, widening in surprise as he found you crouched defensively with your weapon raised.

“Don’t kill me!” you cried, instinctively using your weapon as a shield.

He froze, raising his hands in a gesture of peace. “I’m not going to hurt you,” he said softly, his deep voice steadying your nerves just a little. His expression softened, and he studied you with curiosity. “Are you lost?”