THE ECLIPSE LEGACY

The morning sun cast a warm glow over Auriasia as Ian Maverick approached the imposing structure of the Eclipse Association (EA) headquarters. Today marked a pivotal step in his journey: officially registering as an Eclipse.

He walked proudly entering through the front door of the association. 

Upon entering, Ian was greeted by a spacious atrium bustling with activity. Digital kiosks lined the walls, and holographic displays showcased recent achievements of prominent Eclipses. A receptionist directed him to the registration wing, where he joined a queue of fellow newcomers.

When his turn arrived, Ian approached a registration officer seated behind a sleek desk.

"Good morning," the officer began with a professional smile. "Name and identification, please."

"Ian Maverick," he replied, handing over his ID.

The officer scanned his ID and gestured toward a biometric scanner. "Please place your hand here for verification."

As Ian complied, the system beeped affirmatively.

"Thank you, Mr. Maverick. According to our records, you possess a Unique Gift: Chrono-Resonance. Is that correct?"

Ian nodded.

"Excellent. As a Unique Gift bearer, you'll need to undergo a series of assessments to determine your precise capabilities and appropriate rank. These evaluations are scheduled over the next few days. In the meantime, here is your provisional Eclipse ID."

The officer handed him a sleek card embedded with a microchip.

"Please note," she continued, "this provisional ID grants you limited access to EA facilities. Full privileges will be granted upon completion of your assessments and official ranking."

Ian thanked her and exited the building, the weight of his new identity settling in.

With this, his registration was partially completed. Although waiting for a few days for re-examination was a hassle, it was just what Ian expected. Appearance of unique gift holders was rare enough, not only that but their ability was just too varied. 

This was the main reason why the EA needed to make a special examination for each unique gift holder.

At least, a provisional ID should be enough for him to apply for the blacksmith job.

With his provisional ID in hand, Ian's next destination was "Forgeheart Smithy," a renowned local blacksmith shop known for crafting exceptional weapons and armor for Eclipses.

The scent of molten metal and the rhythmic clang of hammer on anvil greeted him as he entered the workshop. Behind the counter stood a burly man with a thick beard, his arms marked by years of labor.

"Welcome to Forgeheart. What can I do for you?" the blacksmith asked, wiping his hands on a leather apron.

"I'm Ian Maverick," Ian introduced himself. "I'm a newly awakened Eclipse with a Gift that manipulates the condition of non-living objects. I'm seeking employment and hoping to apply my abilities in your forge."

The blacksmith raised an eyebrow. "A Gifted that goes along in smithing, eh? That's not something you see every day. What experience do you have?"

"While I lack formal blacksmithing experience," Ian admitted, "I believe my Gift can enhance the forging process, potentially repairing or refining materials in unique ways."

The blacksmith stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Tell you what, let's put your abilities to the test. If you can demonstrate a practical application that benefits the forge, there's a place for you here."

He led Ian to a workstation where a damaged sword lay on the anvil, its blade chipped and tarnished.

"Show me what you can do with this."

Ian focused on the sword, channeling his energy. His arm's imprint glowed faintly as the blade began to shimmer. Before their eyes, the chips mended, and the tarnish faded, restoring the sword to its former glory.

The blacksmith's eyes widened in amazement. "Well, I'll be damned. That's some Gift you've got there."

He extended a hand to Ian. "Welcome to Forgeheart, Ian. Let's see what we can create together."

As Ian shook his hand, a sense of purpose and anticipation welled up within him. His journey as an Eclipse and a blacksmith was just beginning, and the path ahead promised challenges and triumphs in equal measure.