THE ORIGIN

Chapter 1: SilverWing Academy

Suddenly and swiftly, a dark figure moved as quickly as a comet through the bright streetlights, a rapid and astonishing display of movement that was almost unbelievable. The soft materials on the ground – fabrics that looked like clothing, fragile nylon threads, and bits of paper – all gave way to the power of its rush. However, such occurrences were not rare during this time.

This Earth existed two centuries in the future, molded by the enduring effects of the Origin Energy invasion. The transformations that had restructured the planet over this period were incredibly significant. Tall skyscrapers embellished the cityscape, an ever-present view that extended in all compass directions. A remarkable feat of engineering, airborne train terminals graced the heavens, and vehicles glided through the air as if frozen in time. Islands that floated in midair were now a reality, accommodating corporate structures, extravagant residences, impressive mansions, and indeed, even educational institutions.

In this era, the zenith of technology had unveiled itself, advancing to a stage where spatial dimensions were harnessed to stockpile resources. Even the fundamental composition of raw materials had undergone a transformative evolution, their quality surging forward by great strides. Ventures that were once deemed impractical due to material constraints were now pursued with unbridled enthusiasm.

In its essence, Earth had shed its former mundane existence, ascending to an entirely new level of vibrancy. Humanity now commanded abilities that were once relegated to the realm of fantasy, unlocking a plethora of potentialities. Alongside the human population, entities not native to the planet resided, arriving as either obligated laborers or emancipated citizens, depending on their affiliation with the Earth Federation.

In times before, Earth had been chosen among the planets touched by the divine, a consequence of the significant visitation of Origin Energy. As a result, Earth's advancement had outstripped that of other mortal realms. When the courses of these distinct domains inevitably converged, humanity was poised to establish dominance over substantial portions of the mortal realms, swiftly integrating the unearthly abilities they had acquired.

Conversations flourished regarding their characterization – some termed them perceptive, others cunning, while a faction disregarded them as cautious, or even the "compact yet potent." True, they stood among the smaller civilizations, with an average height of merely six feet, distinct from most peers who stood around seven feet. Yet, Earth proudly housed elite academies, hubs of learning that nurtured burgeoning talents in mastering their newfound potentials. Many of these talents displayed connections to the ancient deities who had once graced Earth with their presence.

In the expansive fabric of time and existence, Earth had emerged as a crucible of change, a domain where the supernatural and the natural intertwined, birthing a lineage of beings with the power to reshape reality itself.

***

Within the halls of SilverWing Academy, Arthur stood as a testament to persistent effort rather than innate brilliance. Amidst his peers, he hovered on the brink of mediocrity, never quite reaching remarkable heights. What consolation could he find in the ability to master wood-based weaponry when surrounded by peers who effortlessly controlled elements and manipulated objects at their whim? His skill, a superpower focused on proficiency with wooden tools, only qualified him for a future within the Societal Safety Department.

Unfazed by his prospects, Arthur sought solace within the depths of the forest concealed behind the Academy library's grand façade. In the midst of those vast wooded expanses, concealed knowledge and techniques awaited, offering gradual improvements to his physical abilities if honed through unwavering practice. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Arthur completed his assigned lessons and promptly retreated to his dormitory. There, he gathered an assortment of wooden weaponry in his bag before setting out once more.