Alvin stared anxiously at the mysterious figure emerging on the surface of the lake. The figure gradually became clearer, revealing an old man dressed in an ancient robe. The old man's face was etched with the marks of time, his deep wrinkles like crevices carved by the passage of years, and his profound gaze shone with a mystical wisdom born of a lifetime of experience.

　　Alvin swallowed hard and clenched his fists, asking cautiously, "Who are you? Why are you here?" His voice trembled slightly, for the sudden appearance of this mysterious figure left him unsettled.

　　The old man merely smiled, a smile that seemed to hold endless stories within it, and spoke in a deep, powerful voice, "Young man, do not be afraid. I am the guardian of this lake, and I sensed the unique aura about you, which is why I have appeared before you."

　　Alvin furrowed his brow, his confusion deepening, and asked, "Unique aura? Do you mean what happened to me at the bottom of the lake?" He recalled the strange encounter at the lake's depths, the way the gray substance had merged with his body, and his curiosity about the unknown forces at work grew.

　　The old man nodded and said slowly, "That's correct. You bear the aura of that mysterious gray substance. It is no ordinary thing, and its appearance may bring great changes, perhaps even altering established paths."

　　Alvin took a small step forward, then quickly stopped, asking anxiously, "What is that thing? How will it affect me?" His mind was a whirlwind of worry and curiosity, desperate to know the key information that concerned his own fate.

　　The old man raised his hand, gently stroking his white beard, his gaze becoming distant, as if recalling events from long ago. He spoke slowly, "That gray substance is an ancient crystallization of mysterious power, containing great energy. As for its specific effects, I cannot say for certain, as they will only become apparent as you continue to grow. But remember, the greater the power, the greater the responsibility. You must tread carefully on the path ahead."

　　Alvin fell into deep contemplation, staring at the calm yet mysterious lake. He was unsure how to face this sudden mission thrust upon him. The old man seemed to sense his confusion and stepped forward, placing a hand on Alvin's shoulder. The hand was slightly cool, yet it carried a soothing power, and the old man continued, "Young man, do not be afraid. If fate has chosen you, there must be a reason. Bravely explore and discover your own potential - every unknown is an opportunity for growth."

　　With that, the old man raised his hands, gently waving them in the air and murmuring an incantation. A soft glow emanated from his palms, gradually enveloping Alvin. The light seemed to have a life of its own, seeping into Alvin's skin, and he felt a warm energy flow through his body, invigorating his previously tense and bewildered spirit, as if every pore had opened up, filling him with a sense of refreshment and clarity.

　　"This is a gift I offer you, in the hope that it may aid you on your journey," the old man said with a smile full of expectation.

　　Alvin quickly regained his composure and looked at the old man with gratitude, bowing deeply. "Thank you, elder. I will strive to explore and not disappoint your expectations."

　　The old man nodded with a smile, and his figure gradually became ethereal, disappearing into the lake, leaving only a series of ripples on the surface, as if recounting the dreamlike encounter that had just occurred.

　　Alvin stood by the lake, gazing at the spot where the old man had vanished for a long time, his heart filling with determination. He knew he could not retreat, but must continue to uncover the secrets of the lake's depths and fulfill his mission.

　　Turning around, Alvin headed back towards the village along the same path. His thoughts were consumed by the mysterious old man's words and the secrets of the lake, and before he knew it, he had returned to the village.

　　As soon as he entered the village, he saw Ellia standing under the old tree at the entrance, looking around. When she spotted Alvin, her eyes lit up, and she hurried over to him.

　　"Alvin, you're finally back! I was so worried. What happened? Was it dangerous?" Ellia asked with a concerned expression, her hands unconsciously gripping the edge of Alvin's clothes, her anxiety evident.

　　Alvin looked at Ellia and felt a warmth in his heart. He smiled and said, "Don't worry, Ellia. Although I encountered some strange things, I'm fine. Come, let's go back, and I'll tell you all about it."

　　The two returned to Alvin's home, where Uncle Wang was also waiting. Seeing Alvin safely returned, he let out a sigh of relief. Alvin then recounted his encounter with the old man by the lake in detail. Upon hearing this, Uncle Wang furrowed his brow, his expression worried. "Alvin, this sounds very dangerous. You must be extremely careful going forward. The path ahead will require utmost caution."

　　Ellia tightly grasped Alvin's hand, her gaze resolute as she looked at him. "I will always support you. No matter what, you must come back safely. I'll be waiting for you here."

　　Alvin felt the warmth of their concern, and he nodded firmly. "Don't worry, I'll be careful. I will find the answers and protect our home."

　　After resting in the village for a few days, Alvin decided to explore the nearby mountain forests, hoping to find clues related to the mysterious power. He packed his supplies, including some dry food, water, and his usual magical trinkets, then bid farewell to Ellia and Uncle Wang and set off towards the mountain forests.

　　The forests were lush, with sunlight filtering through the branches, creating a dappled pattern on the ground covered in thick fallen leaves. Alvin walked cautiously, observing his surroundings and attuned to any unusual sensations.

　　After a while, Alvin suddenly heard a faint chanting. The ethereal, distant voice seemed to possess a magical allure, drawing him towards its source.

　　Pushing through a thicket, Alvin found himself in a small clearing, and the sight before him left him breathless. There stood a woman, dressed in a pale purple robe, its hem gently swaying in the breeze. Her golden hair cascaded like a waterfall, shimmering in the sunlight, and her flawless, snow-white skin and exquisite features seemed sculpted by the heavens, especially her eyes - deep blue like the ocean, seemingly harboring the stars of the universe, captivating all who gazed upon them.

　　The woman held a peculiarly shaped wand, gently waving it as she chanted mysterious incantations. The surrounding flora appeared to respond to her magic, swaying and blooming with even more vibrant radiance.

　　Alvin knew this woman was casting spells, and judging by her display, her magical prowess was formidable. He did not dare to disturb her and simply stood watching, wondering about her identity.

　　When the woman finished her chanting and lowered her wand, Alvin cleared his throat, catching her attention. The woman whipped her head around, her eyes flashing with a hint of wariness. She gripped her wand, her tone slightly icy as she asked, "Who are you? Why were you spying on me?"

　　Alvin quickly raised his hands, offering a friendly smile. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to spy. I was exploring the forests and was drawn in by your chanting. I'm Alvin, from the village at the foot of the mountain. And you are?"

　　The woman studied Alvin for a moment, her brow furrowing slightly. After a pause, she said, "I am Elise, a witch. You'd better not have any ill intentions, or you'll regret it." As she spoke, her wand began to glow, a subtle warning to Alvin.

　　Alvin felt a tightness in his chest, aware of the formidable powers wielded by witches. He quickly said, "Don't worry, Elise. I truly have no ill intentions. I was just passing by and happened to hear you. If I've disturbed you, I'll leave now."

　　Elise's expression softened slightly as she observed Alvin's sincerity. "Hmph, well, you'd better be careful in these forests. They're not exactly safe." With that, she turned and walked away.

　　Alvin watched Elise's retreating figure, his curiosity piqued. He wondered if he would cross paths with the mysterious witch again in the future.

　　As for Elise, she glanced back at Alvin, deep in thought. She had sensed something unusual about him and decided to keep an eye on this unexpected young visitor.