Crimson Phoenix Guardian- Aspiration to the Heavens: Becoming the Supreme Mage 4

Episode 111: Legacy of the Masked Ones

*Renshu*

[The Next Day]

The greenhouse was filled with the scent of damp soil and the sound of birds chirping outside. The sunlight filtered through the glass panels, casting a warm glow on the plants that were already thriving inside. I carefully placed the flower pots on a wooden table, arranging them in a way that would create a beautiful display. We were going to transform this place into part of the twins' spring wonderland.

In our group meetings, Tashunke and Tasunke talked endlessly about creating a wonderland filled with flowers, butterflies, and all things colorful. And I was determined to make their vision come true. After all, as an aspiring star, it was my duty to make the dream of others come true.

I glanced around the greenhouse, taking in the surroundings. There was still a lot of work to do if we wanted to mesmerize the public. But the majority of it would have to be done in the days to come as the school day had already ended. I only stayed after to help tidy things up.

"Not slacking again, are you?" Ona said as he entered the green house with a small pot of daffodils. He carefully placed it next to the pot of tulips I had brought in earlier. The vibrant yellow and red petals complemented each other perfectly. I imagined the twins running through the greenhouse, their laughter filling the air as they discovered the beauty that awaited them.

I huffed. "I'm not a first year anymore!"

Ona snickered as he adjusted his plant. "I'm joking." He lifted his gaze at the glass ceiling. "This place sure brings back a lot of memories, huh?"

"Yeah," I said, nodding.

***

[Two Years Ago]

I hid underneath one of the greenhouse tables. I'd been playing my favorite mobile game for several hours. Since discovering them, I'd become addicted. Currently, I was in a spaceship that reminded me of my home country, except a lot more technologically advanced and differing gender norms.

"Shu? Where are you?" a voice called out. It was Changying. There was worry in her voice.

"Relax, he's probably just slacking off again," Ona said as he trailed behind her.

She interlocked her fingers and held them close to her chest as if in prayer. "But what if that snake mask girl got him?"

"You kids don't have to worry!" a voice called out. "Not while I'm here."

"Lady Isa," Ona said, glancing at the Minese princess. Before attending school in a far off world, she used to attend Nine Petal like her cousin. She, Tahoma, and Yuzu were the bulwark against Mayu. Although, it's possible that our inaction was what allowed Mayu to get away with her psychological warfare on us.

"Kids? Just because you're a year older, it doesn't mean you can call us that," I said, emerging from my hiding spot.

"There you are," Ona said, grabbing me by the wrist. "You made Chang worry about you!"

Chang hugged me. "You're okay!"

"Sorry about that. I just wanted to find a nice place to play my game," I muttered.

Isabel grinned. "I figured. You really got addicted, huh?"

I looked down. "M-maybe."

Ona sighed as he took the phone away. "I'm going to confiscate this until your homework is done."

I sniffed. "You're so mean, Ona. How else will I call cute little Li?"

"You can have it back when you finish your homework, sis-con."