Chapter 19: The Secrets of the Seer

It had been a few days since I'd agreed to train under Celestia. She didn't give me much to work with at first—just a few cryptic words about focusing on "inner strength." But the truth was, I had no idea what she was talking about. Magic was something I could understand; it was a force that I could wield and manipulate with enough training. But what was this "inner power" she was referring to? How was it supposed to help me against the Demon Lord?

The academy's daily rhythm hadn't changed much, even as I threw myself into the unfamiliar realm of "inner power." The once-busy halls were still filled with students, though now the air felt thicker, heavier, as if everyone could sense the growing tension in the world. I didn't know how soon it would happen, but I felt it deep in my bones—the storm that was coming.

Sierra, Mikasa, Airi, and the others were still very much in my life, though I hadn't had as much time to focus on them recently. They seemed to understand my need to train, but the weight of their affection for me was still present, always lingering at the edges of my thoughts.

On this particular afternoon, I made my way toward the courtyard after a grueling training session with Celestia. The silver-haired seer had insisted that I meditate for hours—something about calming the mind to tap into hidden reserves of power. But all it left me with was a headache and a growing sense of frustration.

"You look like you've been through a war," came a familiar voice as I stepped out into the sunlight.

I looked up and saw Airi standing near the fountain, dressed in her usual casual attire. She was holding a small book in one hand, her eyes glinting with that sharp intelligence she always carried.

"I'm not the best at meditation," I said, cracking a half-smile. "Celestia's method is... different."

Airi chuckled softly, closing her book and stepping closer. "You'll get used to it eventually. Though, if you need help, I'm sure I can offer some suggestions."

"I don't know about that," I replied, though I felt a strange sense of comfort from Airi's presence. "This whole 'inner strength' thing isn't exactly what I thought it would be."

Airi studied me for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly. "It's not just magic, you know." She paused before continuing. "It's about balance. You can't just throw around power without considering the consequences. Magic is dangerous. But inner strength is more than just controlling it; it's about controlling yourself—your emotions, your desires, your mind."

I blinked. That was… unexpected. "Balance, huh?"

Airi smiled softly. "Yes. And you'll need that balance, Sera, if you're going to survive what's coming. You might not realize it, but the forces in play are much larger than you think. If you're not careful, they'll consume you."

Her words sent a chill down my spine. She wasn't just talking about magic—she was talking about the future, the battle against the demons. A battle I had no idea how to fight.

"I'll keep that in mind," I said, my voice quieter than I intended.

Airi gave me a knowing smile, her gaze softening. "You don't have to go through this alone, Sera. If you ever need anything, you know where to find me."

I nodded silently, watching her walk away. Airi's advice was always well-meaning, but I was starting to wonder if she knew more than she let on. Had she seen something I hadn't? I couldn't afford to be weak anymore, not with the world on the brink of destruction.

A few hours later, I met with Celestia again. She led me to a secluded part of the academy, a quiet garden with tall hedges and winding paths. The place felt peaceful, almost otherworldly, and I felt the tension in my shoulders begin to ease as we walked.

"This is where we'll begin your next lesson," Celestia said, stopping at the center of the garden. "Here, we'll focus on connecting your body and mind. It's time for you to stop thinking of your magic as something separate from yourself. Your magic is a reflection of your will. If you can't control your own will, you can't control your magic."

I nodded, although a part of me felt skeptical. "And how do I do that?"

Celestia smiled, the faintest hint of amusement in her eyes. "By being honest with yourself. Most people who use magic are afraid. Afraid of failure. Afraid of their own power. If you're going to be any use in the fight to come, you have to face that fear."

I took a deep breath. The air was still and quiet, but I could feel the pressure in my chest grow as Celestia's words sank in. She was right. I had been afraid. Afraid of not being strong enough. Afraid of losing control. But it wasn't just my magic I was afraid of—it was everything.

"I'm ready," I said, even though my voice felt unsteady.

"Then let's begin."

Training with Celestia was far different from what I'd been doing before. There was no spell casting, no focus on incantations or gestures. It was all about clearing my mind, calming my thoughts, and letting go of my fears. It was difficult, frustrating even, but over time, I started to notice small changes. I could feel the power inside me, but more importantly, I could feel myself aligning with it. My magic wasn't just a tool anymore—it was a part of me.

It wasn't easy, but I could feel myself growing stronger, not just physically but emotionally. For the first time, I was learning how to control my own mind—and that made all the difference.

The days passed, and my training with Celestia continued. But my attention was always pulled back to the heroines who had already become a part of my life.

I would occasionally cross paths with Mikasa, who had been quieter recently. Her usual calm, composed demeanor had a hint of something else now—something softer, though she would never admit it. She was always there when I needed her, but she still carried the weight of her own responsibilities. It wasn't easy being the heir to the Kurono family, and I could see that the pressure was taking its toll on her.

Rika, too, was never far from my thoughts. After her route had been completed, she seemed more at ease, but I could tell she was still struggling with the idea of trust. I'd gained her heart, but I hadn't fully earned her belief. Rika's affection for me was genuine, but there was a part of her that still guarded herself. I respected that, but it didn't make it any less complicated.

And then there was Sierra, who continued to train me in magic when she could. Her playful nature was always a welcome distraction from my more serious moments, but I could tell she was also concerned about the future. She often offered me advice in her own unique way—full of teasing but always sincere.

One afternoon, as I sat under a tree near the courtyard, I found myself surrounded by Mikasa, Rika, and Airi. They had gathered there to chat, though it quickly became apparent that they were all trying to get my attention.

Mikasa, leaning against the tree, gave me a sharp look. "You've been spending too much time with Celestia."

I raised an eyebrow, unsure of where this was going. "What do you mean?"

Rika smirked from where she sat, legs crossed, clearly enjoying my discomfort. "She's been stealing you away from us, huh?"

Airi, ever the neutral one, just smiled and shook her head. "If you're training, that's fine. But remember, we're all in this together."

The unspoken sentiment hung in the air. These girls, who had once been rivals for my affection, were now a part of my world in ways I hadn't anticipated. But despite our differences, we were all united in one goal—surviving whatever the future threw at us.

I smiled and leaned back against the tree, looking at them all. "Don't worry. You're not getting rid of me that easily."

And for the first time in a long while, I felt something that I hadn't in a while—hope.