King Element

The Countess had already paid for their awakening while booking the slots, so there was no need for further arrangements. After bidding farewell to the official, the group returned to their rented house. Once inside, Nanima gathered everyone in the lounge for an important discussion.

Ranav, Camilla, and Vivita sat attentively before her, their expressions a mixture of anticipation and curiosity.

Nanima began, her tone calm yet resolute. "I decided to take Ranav as my apprentice because of his unique constitution. Before that, I never intended to take a disciple or establish any form of close relationship. I never married or formed a family. I was the only child of my parents, and they passed away long ago. My plan was to live a quiet, solitary life."

She paused, her gaze softening. "But Ranav's arrival changed everything. I saw potential in him that I couldn't ignore. So, I decided to take him as my disciple. However, I've made it clear to myself that this is where it ends. I will not take another disciple, and that decision is final."

She looked around, taking note of the puzzled expressions on their faces.

"But as Ranav's sisters, you are now part of my extended family. While I won't officially take you as my disciples, I will provide guidance when necessary, especially if Ranav is unable to assist you."

Turning to Vivita, Nanima's tone became more focused. "You've awakened the Light Element. That's an exceptional gift. If you become a skilled healer, you'll never face financial troubles. Healers are highly respected wherever they go, and it's a noble profession for women. In fact, 70% of the kingdom's healers are women. However, the path won't be easy. Your first task is to meditate and form your star circle as soon as possible. Once that's done, focus on awakening the Darkness Element—it will complement your abilities as a healer."

Vivita nodded earnestly. "I will work hard."

Nanima then shifted her attention to Camilla. "You've awakened the Fire Element. At 11 years old, awakening a combat-oriented element as your first is both a challenge and a rare opportunity. To become a skilled fighter, you must awaken as many elements as possible before your twentieth birthday. After that, your ability to awaken new elements will cease."

She leaned forward slightly, emphasizing her point. "You also need to work on your physical strength. A strong body is essential for a combat mage. Without it, even the most powerful spells will fail in the heat of battle. Your tasks are clear: meditate to form your star circles, awaken your next element quickly, and engage in rigorous physical training. This is the only way to complement your fighting spells and reach your potential."

Camilla responded with determination, "I will try my best, Master."

Nanima corrected her gently. "Don't call me 'Master.' I won't accept another disciple. As Ranav's sister, you may call me Aunt. In the future, you can rely on Ranav or find another master. Of course, I'll help you if you actually need me."

She paused briefly before adding, "Camilla and Vivita, you may go to your rooms now and begin meditating. Use this time before lunch to familiarize yourselves with your stars. Ranav, come to my room. We have much to discuss."

Nanima's room was modest, with little more than a simple bed, a small table, and a single chair. She gestured for Ranav to close the door and take a seat.

"Now," she began, her voice serious. "What elements have you awakened?"

"Blessing and Fire Element," Ranav replied.

Nanima's expression grew thoughtful. "As expected, your innate dual-element awakening is remarkable. It's fortunate that your non-conventional element awakened first, followed by your basic element. This sequence allowed the awakening stone to display your last awakening residue. But are you certain it's the Blessing Element? What colors were your stars?"

Ranav replied confidently, "I'm sure. The first star was golden, and the second was red."

Nanima's face turned grave. "Listen to me carefully, Ranav. Do not tell anyone about your Blessing Element. Do not even cast a blessing spell in front of others. This secret must remain between us until the day you are strong enough to face an army alone. Do you understand?"

Ranav nodded, though he looked puzzled.

Nanima continued, her tone low and urgent. "The Blessing Element is a well-known yet almost mythical element. It's referred to in history as the King Element because it was exclusive to those with the bloodline of the Ancient Emperors. It is said that those who possess this element are chosen by the gods to rule. These accounts are well-documented in ancient texts."

Her eyes bore into his. "Do you know what that means?"

Ranav hesitated, then answered slowly, "It means… I'm destined to be a king?"

Nanima sighed deeply, shaking her head. "Foolish boy! It means that if the royal family learns of your Blessing Element, they will see you as a threat. You'll be assassinated, no matter which kingdom you flee to. Unless you are born into a royal family, that you're not… you'll be perceived as a rival, a danger to their rule. They won't wait for you to make a move; they'll eliminate you before you even have a chance."

Ranav's expression darkened as the weight of her words settled on him.

Nanima continued, her voice softer but no less serious. "I don't know if this element is a blessing or a curse, but it raises questions about your lineage. Your father claimed that none of your grandparents were mages. Yet here you are, the first mage in your family… and now your sisters are awakening as well."

She paused, then added thoughtfully, "I suspect the answer lies with your mother. Both she and you show signs of elven blood… your straight hair, your slightly pointed ears. It's possible that her bloodline was dormant and activated in you. If that's the case, it explains your rapid growth… both physical and magical. But you must be cautious. If others notice your exceptional abilities, they may fear you. Human children might even see you as a monster."

Her expression softened slightly, though her concern remained evident. "My dear disciple, I worry for your future. Most masters fear their disciples won't live up to their expectations. Yet here I am, fearing that you'll outshine your peers so much that it brings danger upon you. Please, Ranav, promise me you'll keep a low profile, no matter where you go."

Ranav nodded solemnly. "I promise, Master."

Nanima smiled faintly, though worry still lingered in her eyes. "Good. Now, let's focus on your training. The path ahead will be challenging, but I have no doubt you'll rise to meet it."