20: Arriving at the gathering
Unlike mana, ki had a distinct presence.
It thrived in every living being, from the smallest blade of grass to the mightiest tree.
Ki pulsed through the veins of animals, and coursed through the very essence of humanity.
This vital energy was woven into the fabric of life itself.
Mana powered magic, but ki fueled existence.
Leonis's awareness honed in on the subtle vibrations.
He could sense ki emanating from the surrounding landscape.
From the trees swaying gently in the breeze.
From the horses' steady heartbeat.
From Luna's vibrant life force beside him.
Even his own ki hummed in harmony.
Leonis's sensitivity to ki allowed him to perceive this hidden tapestry.
A world of vitality, woven into every living thread.
Suddenly he had an idea .
Leonis's curiosity sparked.
"Can I merge mana and ki?" he wondered.
Uniting magical energy with life force.
Potentially unlocking new possibilities.
He focused his mind.
Concentrating on the two energies.
Mana and ki swirled within him.
His body began to resonate.
The System, sensing his intent.
Alerted him to the danger.
*Error: Mana-Ki Merge Attempt Detected*
*Warning: Grave Injury Risk*
*Mana and Ki are fundamentally incompatible*
*Merging will cause catastrophic resonance*
*Cellular damage, magical backlash*
*Potential consequences: irreversible harm*
Leonis's eyes widened.
The System's warning stark and clear.
He hesitated, reconsidering.
The risk too great.
He could only sigh in disappointment at the experimental failure.
As Leo was still lamenting, The carriage slowed, and Leonis's gaze snapped back to the present.
Luna's excited whisper broke the spell.
"We're here, Leo!"
The grand palace gates swung open, revealing opulent gardens.
Golden accents glinted in the fading light.
The carriage rolled to a stop before the palace entrance.
Aria smiled, adjusting her gown. "Let's get going kids ."
Leonis descended, offering his hand to Luna.
As they stepped onto the palace grounds, the hum of ki still resonated within him.
A subtle reminder of the hidden world he'd uncovered.
As Leonis prepared to exit the carriage, Harrison's stern voice halted him.
"Leonis, be careful tonight," Harrison cautioned.
His father's piercing gaze emphasized the gravity.
"There are those who would seek to exploit your... abilities."
Leonis nodded, understanding the unspoken reference.
"I'll be cautious, Father," he replied.
Harrison's eyes lingered, then released him.
With that, Leonis stepped out of the carriage.
Luna followed, her hand slipping into his.
Aria descended last, her gaze scanning their surroundings.
The palace's grand entrance beckoned.
As they entered the palace, Leonis was struck by its grandeur.
Marble floors gleamed beneath crystal chandeliers.
Tapestries depicting ancient legends adorned the walls.
The air was alive with music and laughter.
Luna's eyes sparkled like diamonds.
She squeezed Leonis's hand, bouncing with excitement.
"Oh, Leo! Look! The palace is breathtaking!"
Her voice barely contained her enthusiasm.
She tugged him forward, leading him deeper.
Through halls filled with finely dressed guests.
Past tables laden with exquisite delicacies.
Into a whirlwind of color and sound.
Luna's laughter echoed, infectious and joyful.
Leonis smiled, caught up in her infectious energy.
Aria watched, a warm smile on her face.
Harrison's expression remained guarded.
As they mingled through the crowds, Luna's gaze landed on a group of young people.
Their ages matched Leonis's and Luna's.
Nobles' children, dressed in finery, laughed and chatted.
Luna nudged Leonis, her eyes sparkling.
"Look, people our age."
Leonis nodded, observing the group with interest.
They stood at the edge, observing the lively scene.
Aria smiled, watching Luna's excitement.
Harrison's gaze swept the room, ever vigilant.
The sound of music and conversation filled the air.
Luna leaned in, whispering, "I wonder who they are."
Leonis shrugged, sharing her curiosity.
The distance between them and the group remained.
For now, they simply observed.
.
"Ah, if it isn't the Silver Storm: Harrison Silver and Aria Silver!" Orion Eldrid exclaimed.
His piercing blue locks cascaded down his back, a distinguishing mark of the Eldrid family.
As patriarch, Orion's influence was renowned.
Harrison's expression turned respectful.
Aria's eyes warmed with familiarity.
"Orion, good to see you," Harrison replied.