[9 years later]
A twelve year old girl with mid length dark blue hair and mismatched blue eyes. Lucina is currently in the garden of the Lowell Manor meditating.
Multicolored energies are being absorbed into her body. Sneaking behind Lucina is her older sister Claire, a fourteen year old girl with long brown hair and emerald colored eyes.
"Luci~!"
Lucina opened her eyes with an annoyed sigh. With her meditation time ruined and leaned back with her head up to look at Claire's face. "Don't you have anything better to do?" The bluenette asked.
"You're so mean! Can't I just spend time with you?" The older girl pouts and moves from behind Lucina to sit next to her. "Besides, father wanted me to let you know that you're leaving to take the academy entrance exams today."
"Ah, that's right. Almost forgot about that, I'll go get ready then." Lucina got up and dust herself off. 'What a drag...'
"H-hey! Wait for me!" Claire runs to catch up to her precious little sister. "Luci~ I was thinking we could..."
"Can't, after the exams I'll be training."
"Hah!? You're always so busy!"
"I have enough fun dodging your ambushes," Lucina deadpanned, earning a playful nudge from Claire.
The manor's halls echoed with the sound of their footsteps as they arrived at Lucina's room. Claire hovered by the door, eyes wide with expectation.
"Good luck with the exams, Luci," she said, her earlier frustration melting into genuine support. "Make us proud. I know you will."
Lucina nodded in response, though her usual quiet demeanor remained unchanged. She could feel the weight of the day ahead settling on her shoulders. The academy entrance exams weren't just another test—they were the first step toward something much bigger. Something that could change her life.
"I miss my dogs..."
———————————————————
Lucina stood among other students, all ranging from different noble houses, each dressed in finely tailored clothing and exuding auras of confidence, some looking at her with curiosity or subtle disdain.
'What a drag…' she thought, her hand resting on the hilt of the sword strapped to her back. The academy wasn't just a place for study; it was a battleground where strength and intelligence were tested in equal measure.
The exam would be no different.
As she approached the exam registration booth, an older instructor with graying hair and a no-nonsense expression handed her a slip of parchment. "Lucina Lowell, correct?" he asked, glancing up at her.
"Yes," she replied.
"Your entrance exam will be divided into three parts: written, magical aptitude, and combat. Don't keep us waiting."
"Thanks, I guess."
'Just get through this…' she reminded herself, mentally preparing for the challenges ahead.
Claire's voice echoed in her mind, filled with her usual enthusiasm, and for once, Lucina allowed herself a small smile.
"Maybe this wouldn't be so bad..."