You're… an Awakened One."
Ashlain blinked. Awakened One? What does that even mean.
"It means you can use Soul Energy,"
Every person in this world has soul energy. It's part of life, part of who we are. But only a few can actually use it , shape it, control it, turn it into power. Those rare people are called Awakened Ones.
Ashlain asked how does this 'power system work'?
Aavesh smiled and said. "There isn't just one way. There are three.
"First, Soul Casters— They convert soul energy into magic, spells, Healing, illusions, attacks — these are their strengths. They rely on technique and knowledge more than raw power."
"Second, Soul Sentinels—This is the most varied and dangerous type. They use soul energy directly in combat---- Hand-to-hand, weapons, whatever fits them. Their skills, their style, even how they fight depends on who they are----- their personality, emotions, beliefs. Their weapons… they're not just tools. They bond with the user, as like they're alive."
"Third, Soul Elementals—–— Extremely rare, almost unheard of in humans.This type… even I don't know much about it. It's highly confidential, and most people don't even know it exists. The few who have encountered them say these users are the rarest of all — and some of the most powerful beings in existence.
"There's more you need to know about how a soul grows," he said, looking serious. "Every awakened one progresses through "Seven" stages of ascension. Each stage makes you stronger and grants new abilities. The higher the stage you reach, the greater your power becomes. But those who reach the seventh stage… they are no longer limited by human limits —They are the beings whose very existence bends reality itself."
Aavesh said there is another soul power system
Ashlain "Another one?"
"Yes, Aavesh replied quietly.
"The most dangerous and forbidden one."
"It's called the Forced Soul Contract System.
He paused, glancing at the faint light from the window. "In this system, a person makes a forced contract with the universe itself — binding their own soul through using the forbidden knowledge. This forbidden knowledge is hidden in lost scriptures and cursed book
Ashlain listened,
"When this method succeeds," "the universe answers. It grants the user enormous soul energy — power far beyond their natural limits. But that power doesn't come free. It lasts only for a short time — ten minutes, thirty minutes, maybe an hour. And when the time ends… the cost begins."
What kind of cost? Ashlain asked quietly.
Aavesh's eyes darkened. Anything. Your strength, your memories… even your life. The more you draw from the universe, the more it takes back. Many who attempted the contract were never seen again. Their souls simply… vanished.
Silence filled the room.
Aavesh looked at Ashlain and said softly, "That's why it's forbidden. The universe gives — but it always collects its debt. No one escapes that balance."
Aavesh shook his head slightly. "I only know two or three Soul Power systems — there are many more out there that I've never heard of." he said quietly. "But there are many more systems out there, hidden from everyone. Their knowledge is written in forbidden and cursed books. Those systems… they are extremely dangerous. That's why they've been kept hidden from the world."
Ashlain asked. "Hidden… why?"
"Because the power they grant isn't meant for ordinary people," Aavesh replied. "It can corrupt, destroy, even erase a person entirely. Most of what's in those books is prohibited for a reason. The world isn't ready for that kind of power, and it's not something anyone should use.
Aavesh leaned back, his expression serious. "That book the man stole yesterday… it wasn't just any book. It contained forbidden knowledge.
I belong to an organization that stops people and groups from using these kinds of methods. Those who use this kind of forbidden knowledge,
We fight against them.
Ashlain stayed silent, trying to take it all in.
Aavesh gave a faint smile. "But don't worry. You're an Awakened One — and there are many good people like you. They'll teach you how to control your power, how to use it properly."
He stood up, still a bit unsteady. "For now, just be careful. Don't reveal your identity to anyone. There are people out there who hunt Awakened Ones.
He reached into his pocket and handed Ashlain a small card. "Here's my number. Call me if anything strange happens — or if you need help. I have to report this whole incident to my organization, especially about that stolen book."
Aavesh turned to leave, pausing at the door. "Thanks for helping me, Ashlain. My wounds are healing now… I owe you one."
After learning about what was happening to him, and realizing there were others like him, Ashlain felt a strange sense of ease. For the first time in days, the constant fear and confusion loosened a little.
He spent the next two or three days thinking. What should he do? How could he learn to control this power safely.
Finally, he made a decision. He picked up his phone and called Aavesh.
"I… I want to join your organization," Ashlain said, his voice steady.
There was a pause on the other end. Then Aavesh replied, "Joining my organization is very dangerous. We constantly deal with threats that most people can't even imagine. But… you can join as a librarian. You won't have to fight directly, but you'll have access to knowledge, training, and guidance. It's the safest way to learn about your powers."
Ashlain thought for a moment, and said "Okay. I'll join as a librarian."
And just like that, Ashlain officially became part of the organization. He would learn, grow, and discover the secrets of his Soul Power — all while remaining safe, at least for now.