Lilithra's smile turned teasing, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. "Well, that's understandable. Who wouldn't forget their amazing, talented sister? It happens," she said, her tone playful yet filled with warmth. "But don't worry, I'll remind you of everything. Starting with our family."
Axis managed a small smile at her playful tone, feeling a flicker of warmth in his chest. "Alright, tell me about our family, then."
Lilithra stood up gracefully, her movements fluid as she gestured for Axis to sit comfortably. As he settled into the plush armchair, she took a seat opposite him, her expression shifting to a more serious, yet still gentle, demeanor.
"We have a big family, and everyone is quite special in their own way. Let's start with Mom. Elyndra Archborn," she began, her voice softening with reverence. "She has ashen hair that flows like silver silk and eyes as black as obsidian, reflecting a strength that's both daunting and comforting."
Axis could almost see their mother in his mind's eye, a regal figure with an aura of unyielding strength.
"She's the Grand Duchess," Lilithra continued, pride evident in her voice. "Known as the Vermilion Sword Duchess, though she's more infamous by the name Steel Blood Duchess. She's an incredible magic swordswoman.Although she can control many elements, she is especially renowned for her phoenix fire, a flame that burns with the spirit's will and consciousness. It's a power that's extremely hard to obtain and even harder to control."
"Phoenix fire? How is it different from normal fire?" Axis asked, his curiosity piqued.
Lilithra's eyes sparkled with excitement. "It's a spirit fire that has its own will and consciousness. Imagine a fire that can think and act on its own, a fire that's alive. It's incredibly powerful and dangerous. If you want to know more, you can come to me later," she said with a wink.
Axis could almost envision a woman in her late thirties, her sword wreathed in swirling flames that formed the majestic image of a phoenix. He imagined enemies turning to ash, consumed by the fiery bird's wrath.
A light flick on his forehead brought Axis back from his vivid imagination. Lilithra's fingers were still outstretched, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "Now, where were we... Yes, as I said, Mother is incredible. You may not understand it right now, but you'll know when you meet her."
"Eldest sister Luna Archborn has ashen hair like Mother and eyes as blue as sapphires," Lilithra continued, her tone filled with admiration. "She aspires to become a magic swordswoman like Mother and has earned the nickname of Gray Lion. She's recognized throughout the world for her prowess. Although she may seem distant and cold to others, she cares deeply for her family."
Axis could picture Luna, her eyes sharp and focused, moving with the grace and power of a lioness, her demeanor cool and composed but with a fierce protectiveness for her loved ones.
"Third sister Elara Archborn is a bright girl with light violet hair and dark violet eyes," Lilithra said, her voice tinged with sadness. "She passed the awakening, but there were complications, leaving her body extremely weak. Because of that, she spends most of her time with her familiar, which helps keep her health in good condition." Lilithra's eyes grew moist, her gaze distant as if recalling painful memories, but she quickly wiped away the tears and turned back to Axis, her smile returning.
Feeling the need to restore the order of the conversation, Axis asked, "What about you?"
Lilithra's smile turned mischievous again. "Have I not introduced myself yet?" she teased, her lips curving into a grin that made Axis's irritation flare.
"Yes, you did, but aside from your name, 'I'm Lilithra,' you haven't told me about yourself," he said, folding his arms and fixing her with a pointed stare, his eyelid twitching in annoyance.
Lilithra laughed softly, the sound light and melodious. "Alright, alright," she said, raising her hands in mock surrender. "I'm Lilithra Archborn. I'm known for my magical abilities and my knack for getting into trouble," she added with a wink. "But most importantly, I'm your sister, and I'll always be here to help you, no matter what."
Axis felt a surge of warmth at her words, a sense of belonging that eased the lingering confusion and fear. For the first time since waking up, he felt a glimmer of hope.
Lilithra's eyes twinkled with a hint of mischief as she added, "I'm nothing special though. If you want to know, I'm the master of a magic tower, I own many restaurants, shops, and even an information network. I also help out whenever Mother is busy with her affairs. See, nothing special."
Axis's jaw dropped slightly, overwhelmed by the casual revelation of her impressive accomplishments. He managed to find his voice and replied with a grin, "Yeah, nothing special at all."
He paused for a moment, then asked, "What about me? As you know, I don't know much about myself. Can you tell me something about me before I lost my memories? Anything is okay."
Lilithra's expression softened. "You… ahh! I'm not sure I can tell you much, as I was mostly busy. But you were especially close to Elara. If you get a chance, try talking to her. Now, I have to get back to my duties. See you later."
As he left the room, Axis felt a mix of awe and excitement about his family. Yet, a pang of guilt gnawed at him. What if he wasn't the original Axis but someone who had taken over his body? Though no one mentioned it, it must be strange for a five-year-old to speak and behave like an adult. Moreover, even he didn't fully understand who he was.
And Lilithra's behavior when I asked about myself was strange, as if she was avoiding the question.
Wait, I forgot to ask about the mana awakening. Ahh, I guess I can't go back in. I will come back later.
As he arrived near his room, there was a maid standing near the door as if waiting for him.
As she spotted him, she bowed and said, "Pardon me, young master. Second Miss has told me to give this to you." She handed him a box filled with books,and even two notebooks that looked handwritten.
After handing him the books, the maid left swiftly without making even a single sound, making one wonder if she was a ghost with that pale skin tone of hers.