As the sparring session winds down, all the cousins lay sprawled across the training courtyard, their chests heaving with exhaustion. The once-tense atmosphere gives way to a sense of mutual respect. Kairos, still catching his breath, glances over at Alaris, who is smirking despite the sweat dripping from his brow.
"You almost had me there," Alaris teases, his voice tinged with amusement. "Another second, and I would've been the one standing over you."
Kairos chuckles, shaking his head. "I guess I'll have to be quicker next time."
Orion, always the quiet one, gently touches his hands over their bruises and scrapes, the soft glow of healing magic barely noticeable. "You both fought well," he says, his tone calm and sincere. "But next time, let's try to avoid getting this banged up."
Caelum, who had been resting against a nearby pillar, pushes himself up with a groan. "You two can pat yourselves on the back all you want, but remember, I still won the first round." His grin is wide, his golden eyes gleaming with the satisfaction of victory.
Lysandra, ever the strategist, tilts her head as she studies Kairos. "You were holding back at first, weren't you? I could tell. You need to stop hesitating, Kairos. In a real battle, that hesitation could cost you."
Kairos meets her gaze, appreciating her insight. "You're right. I'll work on that."
Lyra, who had been quiet for most of the sparring, speaks up as she dusts off her clothes. "It's not just about strength. We all did well, but remember, the trial won't be as forgiving as this courtyard."
A maid enters the courtyard, bowing politely before announcing, "Dinner has been prepared in the dining room, young masters and mistresses. Please follow me."
The cousins slowly rise, brushing off the dust and adjusting their clothes. They exchange knowing looks—this dinner is more than just a meal; it's a rare opportunity to be in the presence of their grandparents, Aztar and Crystal, both legendary figures in the Aurelian family.
As they follow the maid down a grand hallway within the Aurelian estate, their eyes are drawn to the opulent decorations. The walls are lined with rich tapestries depicting ancient battles and celestial beings. Golden sconces cast a warm glow over the polished marble floors, and intricately carved wooden pillars rise to meet a ceiling painted with constellations. The air is thick with the scent of incense, a reminder of the family's deep connection to celestial magic.
"Every time I walk down this hall, I feel like I'm being watched by those who came before us," Orion murmurs, his voice reverent as he gazes up at the tapestries.
"That's because you are," Caelum replies with a grin, nudging him playfully. "But don't worry, they're probably just impressed by how handsome we've all turned out."
Lysandra rolls her eyes. "Or they're judging us, wondering if we're worthy of the Aurelian name."
Lyra smiles softly. "Either way, we carry their legacy. Let's make sure we do it justice."
When they reach the large, ornate doors of the dining room, the maid steps forward to open them. Before she can touch the handles, the doors swing open of their own accord, like the automatic doors from the modern era, revealing the grand dining room beyond.
Inside, they are greeted by the sight of their grandfather, Aztar, standing proudly on top of the dining table, his arms outstretched in an exuberant welcome. "Welcome, my grandchildren!" he booms, his grin wide and infectious.
Crystal, his wife, narrows her eyes in mock disapproval and swiftly grabs his ear, tugging him off the table. "Aztar, get down from there! You're standing on the steak!" she scolds, her voice sharp but playful. "Do you want our grandkids to eat food with your footprints on it?"
Aztar winces as she pulls him down but continues to smile. "I was just trying to make an entrance, my love," he protests, rubbing his ear as he is led away from the now-ruined steak.
Crystal huffs, though there's a twinkle in her eye. "You and your entrances. Now behave yourself, I want for my grandkids to see our prestige not this buffoonery"
Turning back to their grandkids, Crystal's expression softens. "Come, children, eat your fill. We've prepared a feast for you all. Enjoy this meal, for it will be your last before the challenge begins."
As they take their seats and begin to eat, the room fills with the comforting sounds of clinking cutlery and quiet conversation. Aztar, after a few bites of food, clears his throat, drawing everyone's attention.
"Now, about the trial," he begins, his tone suddenly serious. "It will take place in the Star Dragon Forest to the north, a place steeped in ancient magic and danger. You won't be alone, either. Four other families will be competing alongside you."
He pauses, letting the weight of his words sink in before continuing. "Among them is the House of Icarus, known for their bird beast-kin, masters of aerial combat and wind manipulation. They were instrumental in the war fifty years ago, using their unmatched speed and flight to dominate the skies. But they are not the only ones you'll face. The House of Draconis, with their ancient dragonkin bloodline, boasts incredible strength and fire magic, capable of unleashing devastating breath attacks and summoning scales that rival the hardest steel."
"Then there's the House of Fenrir, descendants of the great wolf spirits, who harness the primal power of the wilderness. Their members possess enhanced senses, incredible speed, and the ability to summon spectral wolves to aid them in battle. Lastly, the House of Umbra, shrouded in mystery, are known for their demon folk heritage. They command the shadows, manipulating darkness itself, and possess a sinister magic that can corrupt and drain the life force of their enemies. Each house is formidable in its own right, and they will all be vying for victory."
Caelum leans back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "The competition sounds fierce. Each of those families has their strengths. We'll need to be at our best."