Chapter 14 – "Embracing the Power Within."
Meanwhile, in Valeria's bedroom, Eira slowly woke up, rubbing her eyes and blinking as she adjusted to the room's soft light. "Lindy! Lindy! Are you there?" she called out, glancing around. The room was spacious, with elegant furniture and intricate tapestries adorning the walls, giving her a sense of the luxurious surroundings Valeria enjoyed. But there was no response; Lindy was busy distributing supplies Valeria had received from the matriarch, fulfilling her duties as instructed.
Yawning, Eira stretched, feeling a bit disoriented. "Hmm, this room… it's so big," she murmured, taking in the unfamiliar details. Eager to shake off her drowsiness, she tested her abilities, activating her time manipulation to accelerate her movements. With a sharp "whoosh," she sped through the room, each step almost imperceptible to the naked eye.
"Interesting… time manipulation really can be applied to my body," she noted, her curiosity piqued. She'd theorized about using her ability to enhance her physical actions, and now she could see its potential. Once she was dressed, she admired herself briefly in the mirror, noting how the light blue clothing, embroidered with delicate flower patterns, suited her. "Not bad… maybe even model-worthy," she mused with a hint of pride.
As she stepped out, she felt a rush of excitement. She had a whole new place to explore. "Time to look around!" she said with a grin before dashing into the hallway. Her time manipulation ability made her movements so swift that, to others, she appeared as a mere blur passing by.
In a matter of seconds, Eira found herself near a massive tower that loomed above, where a crowd of students—mostly older than her—stood in line. She tilted her head, observing them with curiosity. "What are they doing here?" she wondered, her eyes narrowing as she tried to make sense of the scene. Some students glanced her way, drawn by her unusual beauty, but she paid them little mind, more intrigued by the bustling tower entrance.
Unaware of her proximity to the legendary Legacy Tower, an ancient structure created by the primordial spirits, Eira sat on a nearby bench, content to watch the students file inside. "Are they here to vote on something?" she mumbled to herself, still absorbing the lively atmosphere around her.
Back in the school's private meeting room, reserved exclusively for the thirteen noble families, Valeria sat at the rear, quietly listening as her classmates chatted amongst themselves. Each student here came from one of the primordial spirits' lineages, representing the proud legacy of their ancestors. Suddenly, a beautiful girl with a high ponytail approached Valeria, her presence both energetic and charming.
"Heh, Valeria, is it true that your younger sister visited you?" she asked, smirking. Her posture was relaxed, yet her curiosity was clear.
Valeria's expression remained unchanged as she replied, "Ileana, haven't I already told you? I've heard the same question from nearly everyone in class," she said, a faint tone of annoyance creeping in. Ileana, the eldest daughter of the Blazeborn family, was renowned for her mastery of various flames, her intense personality a match for her fiery abilities.
"Aw, but I want to know, too! Is it true your sister is as adorable as they say? Rumor has it she's dazzlingly beautiful," Ileana pressed eagerly, her eyes sparkling with interest.
Valeria sighed, casting a sidelong glance at her friend. "Fine, I'll introduce you after class," she said, a small smirk breaking her usual stoicism. "Though she's still asleep right now—she was exhausted."
"Yay! Thank you, Valeria! You're the best!" Ileana cheered, practically bouncing with excitement before quickly taking her seat as the teacher entered, signaling the start of the session.
Minutes later, their instructor, an elder with an air of authority, addressed the students with a calm demeanor. "Today, we will be heading to the observation room. All of you, as members of the thirteen families, will be tasked with rating the new students challenging the Legacy Tower. While this is only for practice, I hope each of you will evaluate them with discernment," he instructed.
The students, many of whom were first- and second-borns, sat up straighter, obedient yet clearly bored. It was an annual tradition to assess the newcomers, and few looked forward to spending hours watching young students attempt the tower. However, the principal and other teachers valued their insight, making it a task they couldn't refuse.
As the teacher dismissed them, Valeria leaned over to Ileana. "Ileana, could you fill out my votes? I need to step out for a bit."
Ileana grinned, nodding enthusiastically. "Of course! Just don't forget your promise to introduce me to your sister," she teased.
Valeria huffed in amusement. "I won't." With that, she left the room, heading toward her quarters, leaving her classmates to sigh in envy. Not everyone could skip out on these duties without consequences, but Valeria's rule power made her a unique exception.
Back at the Legacy Tower, Eira continued to watch the students trickle inside, her gaze fixed on the massive structure. She didn't realize she was on the threshold of a legendary site, crafted by ancient spirits as a test of strength and perseverance for those seeking greatness. Lost in thought, she observed the intricate carvings along the tower's exterior, her curiosity urging her to learn more.
But, for now, Eira was content to enjoy her surroundings, basking in the fresh air and marveling at the lively city she had only begun to explore.