Friends

A month has passed since Anastasia's birthday banquet, and much has changed. During this time, she's been studying how to write with Marianne and Jeremy. Though she already knows how to write, she's practicing again, like a child, to avoid drawing attention. It seems that her father has been discussing with the heads of the Niolle and Wellos families about having their children become Anastasia's playmates, so they can study and play together. While this new arrangement is part of the father's plan, Anastasia is also looking forward to getting closer to Them.

Marianne belongs to the Marquis Niolle family, known for their poison affinity. The current head of the family is Marchioness Evelyne Niolle, Marianne's mother. On the other hand, Jeremy is from the Marquis Wellos family, which is known for its lightning element. However, there's something else about Jeremy—he possesses dark magic, a secret no one seems to know. How do I know? Well, there are certain signs that are visible to me, though I'm not sure why. It might be because of my scarlet flames. Regardless, the head of the Wellos family is Eldric Wellos.

The symbol of Marianne's family, the Marquis Niolle, is a silver lily on a pale lavender banner. This delicate design reflects their affinity with poison. On the other hand, Jeremy's family, the Marquis Wellos, bears the symbol of a golden hawk on a navy blue banner, which represents strength and nobility, fitting for a family whose elemental affinity is lightning.

As Anastasia was deep in thought, a sudden knock at the door pulled her attention away. Roseyy entered the room, followed closely by Marianne and Jeremy. It seemed that it was time for their visit. As they stepped inside, Marianne eagerly rushed to Anastasia and wrapped her in a hug. Meanwhile, Jeremy, with his usual smug smile, glanced at Marianne and teased, "Looks like someone forgot proper etiquette." Marianne, pouting slightly, shot back, "But Anastasia is our friend!"

I welcomed them as Roseyy ordered some snacks. Jeremy suggested we do something productive, while Marianne suggested playing house. They both looked at me, waiting for me to choose, and I was caught off guard by their sudden question. I could sense they both hoped for their idea to be picked, but I had to choose. I decided to suggest something productive, which made Marianne's ears droop in disappointment. Her sad look tugged at my heart, so I quickly added, "Let's do both." After all, her sadness was hard to ignore.

After learning some ancient letters, we decided to play tag. Just as we were about to start, Michael entered the room, and we invited him to join. We made our way to the garden of the Moon Palace, the place I was living in. It was as beautiful as a palace could be, and at night, it shone like a star. Jeremy, eager to take on the challenge, said, "Go run! I'll be the one to chase you guys." With that, we all took off.

While we were playing tag, I noticed something behind the trees— a shadow, as though someone was watching us. A chill ran down my spine. Who could it be? I had trained my mana well enough to sense any presence near me, but I hadn't felt anything until I got too close. Who could be there?

I briefly considered investigating, but quickly dismissed the idea. I wasn't strong enough yet, and I couldn't risk putting anyone in danger. For now, it was wiser to simply observe.

Suddenly, I heard footsteps approaching, causing me to feel flustered. But then I saw the silhouette of my father, his gaze filled with love. A wave of relief washed over me—thank goodness it was him. When I looked back at the spot where the mysterious shadow had been, there was nothing. It was as though it had never been there. Whoever it was had likely become cautious as my father approached.

It seemed the game of tag was over as everyone started coming this way. I couldn't help but wonder if anyone else had noticed the presence I sensed. A feeling of powerlessness washed over me—there was so much I couldn't do right now. I knew I had to grow stronger, and fast. I needed to protect these people, to ensure their smiles never faded and that they could always be happy. I would never let anyone get close to my loved ones.

...

It was nighttime at the Moon Palace, and a little girl could be seen practicing diligently. Her silver hair shimmered in the moonlight, and her icy blue eyes glistened with focus. She was practicing her mana essence, pushing herself to the point of exhaustion. Nearby, energy potions sat ready to replenish her drained energy.

In this world, there are two kinds of people: those who can control their mana and those who cannot. Among those who can, there are three types. First, there are elementals—people born with the ability to control a specific element. Second, there are mages—individuals who can perform magic. To do magic, one must have both mana and a deep understanding of arithmetic, as proper calculations are crucial. While every elemental can also be a mage, not every mage can control an element. Third, there are spiritualists—people who possess the ability to form contracts with spirits.

Anastasia is an elementalist who possesses three elements, two of which are known by everyone, while one remains hidden. Her brother also possesses two elements, just like her. Elementalists with more than one element are rare, as elements are few and special. The beauty of being an elementalist is that they don't need chants to wield their powers.

Under the moonlight, the girl with silver hair practiced until dawn.