Title: "Soul of the Dynasty: "
At fifteen, Shizui sets foot in Aaru, a prestigious academy for mages. Unlike others, a shadow of a forgotten past clouds his present. A recurring dream, a powerful connection he can't explain, and a deep, unspoken gui...
A persistent rapping shattered Shizui's dreams. He blinked awake, momentarily disoriented. Sunlight streamed through the windows, painting the unfamiliar room in a golden glow. He sat up, searching for Elven. His friend was absent, leaving Shizui alone in the cabin.
With a lingering yawn, Shizui stretched and approached the door, his curiosity piqued. He threw it open, revealing a scene that brought a frown to his brow. A woman and a boy, no older than himself, stood on the other side.
"How can I help you?" Shizui inquired, his brow furrowing in confusion.
The boy, his cheeks flushing red, puffed out his chest in an attempt to appear imposing. "Show respect to the lady! Bow before her!"
Shizui, taken aback, straightened his posture. Accustomed to others bowing to him as the grandson of the Terra Clan's leader, this demand was a surprise. Shaking off the remnants of sleep, he took a moment to examine them both.
The woman was striking. Her warm complexion and oval face were framed by long lashes that accentuated her dark, almond-shaped eyes. Bold eyebrows gave her a look of quiet strength, while her full lips hinted at a determined spirit. Her black hair, a cascading wave reaching her waist, was intricately braided and adorned with ornaments. A few playful strands escaped, framing her face in a way that spoke of both beauty and a touch of untamed spirit.
The boy, slightly shorter than the woman, shared her features - the same oval face, almond eyes, long lashes, and strong brows. His hair, however, was short, a stark contrast to the woman's long braid. Perhaps this was the only thing that kept people from mistaking him for his female companion.
Both figures were clad in the familiar red robes of the Terra Clan,
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Shizui mused to himself, realizing they had no clue about his identity. A mischievous glint sparked in his eyes. This could be fun He decided to play along.
"Finished staring?" the woman inquired sharply, her gaze unwavering.
"Forgive me, my lady," Shizui responded with a slight nod, his voice brimming with mock seriousness. He decided to play along for a bit, curious to see how far he could take it.
"Bring me my tea," she commanded a hint of imperiousness in her tone.
The boy, eager to please, puffed out his chest and blurted, "I'll get it right away!"
"Not you," she corrected, her lips curving into a faint smile as she pointed at Shizui. "Him."
Before Shizui could react, Elven's voice rang out from the doorway, saving him from the charade. "Young Master Shizui, are you up? I've brought breakfast."
Shizui mentally facepalmed himself, then glanced past the two strangers at Elven. He was carrying a tray full of steaming dishes and fresh fruit. Relief washed over him.
