Raven and Lyra stood at the academy gates, a light breeze stirring their hair as a sleek, enchanted carriage rolled up before them. Raven had expected a short walk into town, but as Lyra waved the carriage over, a wave of realization washed over her: the main town was far from the academy.
"Good afternoon!" Lyra greeted the coachman with a smile, her voice cheerful. "We're heading to the Arc."
The Arc? Raven blinked, pretending to understand while making a mental note. She had no idea what or where the Arc was but kept quiet, determined to observe and blend in. Everything here was still new to her, and she'd need to pay attention to even the smallest details.
The carriage door swung open with a creak, and Lyra motioned for her to step inside first. Raven hesitated for just a moment before climbing in, taking her seat across from Lyra, who was already settling in comfortably. Raven tried to mimic Lyra's relaxed posture.
As the carriage began to move, Raven felt the world outside shift. Through the window, the vastness of the Forest came into view, trees towering and ancient, their leaves whispering secrets as the carriage rattled along. Floating cliffs peeked through the dense forest, their majestic presence casting long shadows over the ground below.
Raven couldn't help but gaze at the landscape in awe. The magical cliffs, floating effortlessly in the sky, were a breathtaking sight. She watched as the carriage sped along a narrow path that twisted through the forest, every turn revealing a new and mystical sight. The way the trees swayed, the soft glow from the enchanted flora—everything about this place seemed both surreal and dangerous, like something from a dream she had yet to fully understand.
Lyra was busy chatting away, but Raven found herself tuning in and out, lost in her thoughts. She kept observing Lyra, noting how casually she interacted with the coachman, how she carried herself with confidence.
After a short ride, the carriage came to a slow stop at the foot of a hill, and Raven glanced out the window. Her breath caught. Standing tall at the top of the hill was an ancient and magical stone archway, towering against the sky. This must be the Arc. She mentally noted.
The Arc looked like it had been there for centuries. Raven could see its surface engraved with swirling runes that pulsed faintly with light. The air around it seemed to hum with power. At its base, a clear river flowed gently, cutting off any direct path to the Arc.
Raven stepped out of the carriage, following Lyra closely, unsure of what would happen next. There was no bridge, no visible way to cross the river. How were they supposed to get to the Arc?
Lyra didn't hesitate. She stepped up to the river's edge and, with a confident movement, lifted her foot into the air. Raven's eyes widened as she watched magical dust swirl around Lyra's feet, glowing in soft hues of blue and gold. It illuminated every step as if forming invisible stairs beneath her, allowing her to walk effortlessly across the river and up toward the Arc.
Raven's heart pounded. She glanced down at the flowing water and then back at Lyra, who was already halfway across the air, walking as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
"Come on, Aria!" Lyra called over her shoulder, her voice full of excitement.
Raven hesitated. She wasn't sure if she could do this. But there was no turning back now. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and lifted her foot, mimicking Lyra's movement. Her heart jumped as she felt something solid beneath her foot. Slowly, she opened her eyes and stared in awe as her feet, too, were illuminated by the same magical dust. The invisible stairs felt real, like stepping on solid ground.
She let out the breath she had been holding, her steps shaky at first. But as she took another step and then another, a strange feeling of freedom washed over her. Every step upward seemed to lift a weight from her shoulders, the magical dust swirling around her feet like playful wisps of light. She wasn't afraid of heights, but the view below—the river, the distant trees, and the towering cliffs—was dizzying. Yet, Raven felt a sense of exhilaration rather than fear.
As they climbed higher, the air grew cooler, and the Arc loomed larger before them. Raven's nerves began to settle, replaced by awe at the magic of it all. The ancient structure felt alive, like it was watching them, waiting for their arrival.
At last, they reached the top, standing before the Arc. Raven took a moment to catch her breath, her pulse slowing as she glanced at Lyra, who was already adjusting her hair, as if walking on air was a daily occurrence.
"Gosh, I really love that part," Lyra said, her voice full of excitement as she stepped towards the Arc.
Raven followed, feeling a surge of awe wash over her as she approached the towering structure. Lyra reached for a small leather pouch tied to her skirt belt. She withdrew a jade pendant, its surface gleaming in the light. Without a word, she fit the pendant into the niche carved into the Arc's surface.
"Did you bring yours?" Lyra asked, glancing over her shoulder.
Raven looked down at her belt, only to realize that her hand was already inside her pouch, fingers curled around something cool and uneven. Instinctively, she drew the pendant out and stared at it. The jade was intricately designed, with delicate carvings of vines twisting across its surface, and in the center, a small opalescent stone shimmered with an inner light.
She offered Lyra a hesitant smile, holding up the pendant.
Lyra nodded, slipping through the shimmering mist that had formed at the center of the Arc, disappearing into the portal without a second thought.
Raven stood there for a moment, her body moving on its own as if it had done this a thousand times before. She pressed her jade pendant into the same slot on the Arc, feeling a strange sense of familiarity wash over her.
That's weird.. she thought, her brow furrowing. If Aria was so used to leaving the academy through this Arc, why did floating in the air earlier feel so foreign?
She shook her head, trying to brush off the unsettling feeling. Maybe she was just overthinking it, or maybe the body she now inhabited still held onto memories she hadn't unlocked yet.
With a deep breath, she stepped through the mist, the portal swallowing her whole, just as it had Lyra.
When Raven emerged from the mist, she blinked in surprise. The hilltop was familiar yet different. Below them, a bustling market town sprawled out, alive with energy. People milled about, their voices rising in a cheerful hum. Market stalls were packed with colorful fabrics, exotic spices, and shimmering trinkets. Horses and carriages moved slowly through the cobblestone streets, while children ran between the crowds, laughter mixing with the calls of street vendors.
Before Raven could fully take it all in, Lyra grabbed her hand, pulling her toward the stone stairs leading down into the lively town.
"Come on, we don't have all day," Lyra grinned, her excitement contagious.
Raven followed, trying to keep her curiosity in check. As they descended, the scents of baked goods and fresh flowers filled the air. She marveled at the life around her, taking in the details—the merchants selling their wares, the shop windows showcasing extravagant dresses, the sounds of deals being struck. She had never seen anything like this.
"I haven't really been out much," Raven said, glancing at Lyra. "You know, from the academy to…here."
Lyra shrugged it off, a small smile crossing her face. "Well, I guess that makes sense. You're always buried in your studies. I just can't believe we've never come out here together before." She waved a hand toward the bustling streets. "Alright, so this street leads to the main square. Over there's where you'll find the best sweets in town, Seriously, you have to try them sometime." she pointed to a colorful stand near the fountain. "And further up is the marketplace. It's always crowded, but you can find anything there—charms, jewelry, even spell books if you know where to look."
Raven bit her lip, her mind racing. She wasn't sure if Aria had ever explored this place, but that strange familiarity she'd felt earlier at the Arc lingered in her thoughts. It was as if her body instinctively understood the magic of the place, while her mind struggled to catch up.
It struck Raven how little Lyra seemed to know about Aria, despite their friendship. Had Aria been hiding parts of herself all this time?
What kind of friendship was this, really? Raven wondered. Aria felt like a puzzle with pieces missing—even to someone as close as Lyra. The more Raven observed, the more mysterious Aria became.
As they walked, the streets became more refined, the lively energy replaced by a quieter luxury. Noblewomen in fine dresses strolled by, some with small parasols in hand. Men in tailored coats and polished boots walked with their heads held high, their conversations hushed but poised.
"This is the fancy part of the city, Valwich road." Lyra whispered, her tone playful as two impeccably dressed nobles passed by. She leaned in toward Raven with a smirk. "Most of these people are nobles."
Raven nodded, trying to blend in despite feeling out of place. Lyra suddenly stopped in front of a shop with large, arched windows and an elegant sign hanging above the door.
"Here it is—Artiste Boutique," Lyra announced, her eyes gleaming. "The best place in the capital for dresses. You're going to love it!"
As they stepped closer, the warmth of the boutique beckoned them. The faint sound of enchanting music floated through the air, wrapping around them like a comforting embrace.
"Come on, let's go!" Lyra said, pulling Raven by the hand.
---
Raven took a deep breath and sank into the plush chair at her desk, feeling the weight of the day settle on her shoulders. Fatigue wrapped around her like a heavy blanket after her exhausting shopping trip with Lyra, and her feet throbbed in protest. The thrill of exploring this new world had been exhilarating, but it left her drained.
Her gaze drifted to the elegant clock perched on the corner of her desk. It was almost 8 p.m. A chuckle escaped her lips as she marveled at the similarity; even time seemed to follow the same rhythm here as in her old life. Earlier, she had noticed the familiar letters on every sign she passed, a small piece of comfort in a place that felt so different. The biggest change in this world, though, was the magic that touched everything, making the ordinary feel like something special.
"I bet Lyra's having fun now," she mused aloud, a yawn escaping her lips as she thought of her friend. Lyra had looked stunning in the gown they'd chosen for the ball, and Raven had relished helping her achieve the perfect look. In those moments, laughter and excitement had drowned out the weight of her situation. But now, sitting in silence, a wave of nostalgia washed over her. She missed the feel of a pencil in her hand and the joy of creating something entirely her own. She shook her head, brushing the thought aside. That could wait.
What mattered more was figuring out how to navigate Aria's life—her life now. She was essentially Aria now, and the realization brought a twinge of sadness. The name "Raven" felt like a distant echo, one she might have to let go as long as she's here.
"Okay, Aria," she said to herself, grimacing at the awkwardness of it. It felt strange calling herself by that name, like putting on a coat that didn't quite fit. "Let's do this."
Taking a deep breath, Raven reached for the ornate box that had been the center of her curiosity all day. Her fingers traced the delicate rose-leaf patterns on the lid, just as she had done earlier. The leaves shimmered and twisted once more, the roses blooming and shifting in a graceful, intricate dance as the lid glided open on its own.
Inside, two notebooks lay nestled. Her gaze lingered on them before her hand hovered over the soft, cream-colored one. She picked it up carefully, feeling its smooth cover between her fingers.
As she flipped the notebook open, Raven felt her breath catch in her throat. The first page was emblazoned with the name "Mareilla Wells," accompanied by a photograph of a girl whose features mirrored her own.
"So, Aria was just a nickname…" she murmured, her fingers brushing the photograph with a sense of awe. Curiosity surged within her as she examined the image more closely. They really had the same expressive eyes and soft features, yet there was an undeniable air of longing and sadness that seemed to linger around her.
Who are you really, Aria Wells?
Raven's fingers trembled as she turned the page, revealing a series of diary entries written in neat handwriting. Her eyes barely skimmed the words before she gasped and quickly snapped the notebook shut, guilt rising in her chest.
Should I really be doing this?
She sighed, feeling the weight of the choice. But the pull to understand Aria—her past, her hopes, her fears—was too strong. After a brief pause, Raven opened the notebook again, her heart pounding as she braced herself to read the first entry.
The neat handwriting welcomed her, each curve a glimpse into Mareilla's world.
---
Year 212 of the Arcane Awakening, Luminara 15th.
Today marks the annual Luminara Trials and the Festival of the Celestial Call. I've never attended before, but now that I've turned fifteen, Mother finally agreed to let me watch the festivities. I've heard whispers that the entire realm of Aetheria transforms in the days leading up to the Celestial Call. Every Region, City and town are draped in glowing lanterns, while magical firework displays light up the night sky.
Yet, as I look forward to witnessing this celebration for the first time in the capital city, a shadow hangs over my heart. I know I cannot participate, not with our family's meager means. No sponsorship means no chance to shine like the stars that will fill the sky tonight. They never pick girls from small towns like Wintervalley. I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and sadness, knowing I will only be a spectator in a world of wonders that feels just out of reach.
---
Raven's heart ached at the raw honesty of Aria's entry. Each word painted a vivid picture of longing and desire, revealing how deeply the girl yearned for something more—a chance to belong and to immerse herself in the magic that surrounded her.
But wait. If she couldn't participate in the Luminara Trials, how was she here now?
With her brows furrowed in thought, Raven flipped the page.
---
Year 212 of the Arcane Awakening, Luminara 22nd.
I'm back! I can hardly believe it. The moment I stepped into the capital city, I felt like I had entered a dream. Everything sparkled and shimmered—the streets were alive with laughter, and the air buzzed with magic. I danced for hours, tasted sweets I had only heard about, and marveled at the enchanting displays of light and color. It was everything I hoped it would be and more.
Being there for the festivities was a revelation, but it was the people I met that made the experience truly unforgettable. I finally understood what it felt like to belong, even if just for a little while. But as always, I returned home with mixed feelings—joy for the memories I had created and sadness knowing I had to leave that world behind.
---
But that smile quickly faded as she recalled the haunting darkness in Aria's eyes during her first awakening in this body—eyes that held secrets and sorrow. What had happened to this girl? Curiosity tugged at Raven, urging her deeper into the diary's pages. She flipped to the next entry, eager to uncover the truths hidden within.
---
Year 212 of the Arcane Awakening, Luminara 26th.
Today, I met her again—the girl I practiced spells with in the forest. I still can't believe she remembered me! We had been spellbound by our magic during our last encounter, but I never expected her to take an interest in my journey. Her name is Elyse, and she approached me with a proposition that left me breathless. She is looking for young prodigies to sponsor, and after seeing me practice in the woods, she wants to help me get into the academy! She promised to support me until I graduate, which means I could finally pursue my dreams of becoming a powerful mage. I could hardly contain my excitement when she spoke. I never thought anyone would believe in me like this!
---
Raven's heart raced as she read the words, each line filled with hope and possibility. Elyse's offer felt like a golden opportunity for Aria, a chance to break free from the small town and embrace the magic she had always longed for. Raven couldn't help but wonder what happened next. Did Aria accept the sponsorship?
Just as she was about to turn the page, she felt something brush against her bare feet. Startled, she jumped slightly. "What the hell?" She looked down and saw a red envelope that had slid under her door.
Furrowing her brows, she bent down to pick it up, a mix of curiosity and caution swirling inside her. The envelope was sealed with a black wax stamp shaped like a long-stem flower with four petals. Huh? she thought, turning it over in her hands. "Is this an invitation?"
Without thinking too much, she rushed to the door and peeked into the corridor, hoping to see someone there. But the hallway was silent, dimly lit and empty.
Frowning, she hesitated for a moment, considering whether to close the door again. After a brief pause, she decided to lock it, a sense of unease creeping in.
She returned to her desk, placing the envelope in front of her, and stared at it. It looks important…
With a sigh, she finally said, "Ah, screw it."
she carefully opened the envelope. Her heart raced as she unfolded the paper inside.
---
Dear Mareilla,
The moon wanes, and the shadows grow long. The flower in the night is wilting, and we are concerned about your progress.
As the petals fall, the whispers of the winds grow faint. Please reply with the colors of dawn and dusk, and let us know if the path you tread is still aligned with the night's design.
Remember, the heart of the lotus blooms in still waters. Time is of the essence, and we await your word with bated breath.
In ashes we trust,
The Black Lotus.
---
Raven stared at the letter, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Huh?" She read it over again, trying to make sense of the cryptic words. The letters formed sentences, sure, but the meaning felt completely out of reach.
"What the hell is this?" she muttered, shaking her head in frustration. She could see the words, but they danced around her mind, evading comprehension. The metaphors and odd phrases left her feeling even more lost.
"This makes no sense at all!"