In a world where magic was shrouded in secrecy, casters held a unique position, their abilities hidden behind the veil of their distinctive aura. This luminous display of energy revealed their magical intentions, making each incantation a dance of colors and patterns.
"Ready, Kizuya?" Elaris asked, her eyes alight with anticipation.
Kizuya nodded, a determined glint in his gaze. "Absolutely, Mom!"
The duo stood within a serene glade, the gentle rustling of leaves accompanied by an air of focused excitement. The sunlight filtered through the foliage, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor.
Elaris extended her hand, her aura beginning to form around her. A soft azure light enveloped her, radiating the power of her spell.
Kizuya concentrated, his magic flowing through him without the telltale sign of an aura. His focus was inward, a silent connection to the arcane energies that resided within.
As the mock battle commenced, Elaris and Kizuya exchanged spells with grace and finesse. Brilliant flashes of magic illuminated the glade, a testament to their dedication and growth.
"Not bad, Mom. But let me show you what I've been practicing. Mud Barrage!" Kizuya's voice carried a quiet confidence as he conjured his spell.
Elaris responded in kind, her command swift and assured. "Blizzard!"
A cascade of mud met an icy tempest, the clash of elements creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Despite the absence of an aura, Kizuya's magic was no less potent, his control and precision evident in every movement.
While Elaris and Kizuya honed their skills, Gureus and Celia engaged in their own training. The resonance of steel on steel echoed through the glade as they practiced their magic-infused swordsmanship.
Gureus paused for a moment, a fond smile gracing his features. "Time flies, doesn't it, Celia? It feels like just yesterday you were taking your first steps."
Celia nodded, her determination shining in her eyes.
As the family members dedicated themselves to their training, an unforeseen disturbance began to ripple through the tranquility. Unbeknownst to them, an intruder had entered their sanctuary, setting the stage for a challenge that would test their unity and abilities.
Amidst the peaceful serenity of the forest, a looming threat emerged as the knights of Mrs. Vonsfort began their invasion.
"That's right! Seize those filthy monsters," Mrs. Vonsfort declared with a cold determination.
"Your Highness, I have an urgent report to deliver. It concerns the people residing in this forest, and the monsters may inadvertently lead the invaders to their homes," a knight reported.
"What is it?" Mrs. Vonsfort inquired, her tone impatient.
"Your Highness, there are inhabitants living in this forest, and the stampede of monsters could potentially cause destruction to their homes," the knight explained.
"I don't care. Why did they choose to live in such a place? It's their own fault. Continue!" Mrs. Vonsfort dismissed, her attitude callous.
A vast horde of Wards surged forward, heading straight for the Ikuyo residence.
"Dad, I have a terrible feeling about what's about to happen," Celia expressed with concern.
Though Celia lacked the distinctive mark her older brother possessed, she had a unique ability—a heightened perception of threats—which allowed her to swiftly detect danger.
Prompted by Celia's instinctive warning, both Elaris and Kizuya sprang into action.
"Ground Wall!" Elaris cast, summoning a protective barrier of earth.
"Ice Bastion!" Kizuya followed suit, creating a defensive shield of ice.
"Your Highness, another report. Two walls have suddenly materialized, shielding the house. Could it be..." the knight began to report.
"Magic," Mrs. Vonsfort interjected, her voice filled with realization.
Without delay, Mrs. Vonsfort relayed this new development to the council before departing.
"Well, that was quite a stampede," Elaris remarked as she caught her breath.
"I'm completely drained... I need something to drink," Kizuya panted, his exhaustion evident.
As the noon sun cast its warm rays upon the forest, Celia assisted her mother in preparing lunch, while Kizuya and his father continued to deal with the remaining Wards.
"Lunch is served!" Celia's cheerful voice announced.
"It's been quite a struggle. I can't help but wonder what triggered this stampede," Gureus pondered aloud.
"Mm," Kizuya concurred, his appetite rekindled.
Amid their peaceful meal, unexpected visitors arrived—the unwelcome presence of Daniam and Mrs. Vonsfort.
"Well, well, if it isn't the Ikuyo residence," Mrs. Vonsfort taunted with a derisive smirk.
"You have no business here. Leave our sanctuary immediately," Elaris warned, her tone firm.
"What a pathetic family, dwelling in the woods. Is it because your spineless son was too afraid of me?" Daniam mocked.
"You're still as weak as ever... Harden Cage," Kizuya calmly cast, erecting a transparent barrier around Daniam.
"Unless you intend to depart, I shall make you," Elaris declared, her resolve unshaken.
"Unlike your monstrous child, you're incapable of casting hexes," Mrs. Vonsfort taunted.
"Harden Cage," Elaris cast with composure. "What were you saying?"
"Guards! Seize them!" Mrs. Vonsfort ordered, her frustration evident.
"Let's settle this later. For now, we're in the midst of our meal. Perhaps you should show some manners," Gureus suggested calmly.
A moment of silence followed Gureus's words, quickly replaced by the uproarious laughter of the guards.
"That's it!" Gureus angrily said.