Saharabi: Awaken the Veil

Intruder

The Baring was only a day away, meaning they had a day before the battle. Nia had made significant progress in just a few days, her body slowly transforming and moulding itself as it should. We had tried a few spells too, similar to those of the Saharabian gifts, revealing her latent potential. It was no surprise—she was half divine, after all. She only needed the right circumstances and she finally had that.

The most intriguing part was seeing her family's reaction to her abilities. They were all eager to train her, recognizing her vast potential. I hesitated to address the powers they called Mubarik, knowing they would manifest as she grew stronger. The concept of the Mubarik was more rudimentary compared to the other powers in the divine realm.

Though a sovereign, Amaryssa was just a double-type goddess, her power still had limits, and so did the gifts she bestowed. Only proper understanding would make it easier to develop and progress. That understanding was magic, and it is what Saharabians lack. Divided amongst themselves and hiding from the world, they weren't curious enough to evolve. It was disappointing to see how much they stifled their growth. The longer I explored this place, the more I understood my mother. She was probably hurt by their behaviour and disappointed by their ignorance. I, for one, was appalled, and I hadn't explored at length.

"Nia, would you take a walk with me?"

"Yes, where would you like to go?" she said, making her way to my side and interlocking our arms.

To no one's surprise, Adil was not far behind, and neither was Siyani.

"They do follow you everywhere, don't they?" I asked.

She laughed. "They have been closer than usual, yes. But I cannot complain. Neither of us knows when the other might die. So I appreciate the company."

"I understand."

We continued to walk in silence. Every step feeling like a delicate balance between peace and an underlying tension. We were taking a break from training today. Since her Mubarik gifts were already manifesting, it was best to train her mind before tomorrow; the battle would commence right after their tattoos were bared to the people.

"Nia, who taught you the summoning spell?"

"I learned it from Sekai and Kagami."

"Sekai?" I was shocked to hear that he was the one who taught her such an advanced spell, I couldn't hide the surprise in my voice.

"Is there something wrong? Do you know him?"

"No. Nothing's wrong. And yes...I did know him. Before I came here." A long time would have passed now in Aetherium, I wondered if he stayed in Nuraqiya all this time. I felt my shoulders slump at the thought of my past with Sekai, with everything and everyone I left behind.

"Did you love him, Zara?"

"Wow, Nia. you're one to ask. Do you love Adil?" Her blushing face was enough to answer my question.

"Sekai and I grew up together. We were friends, just like you three. No more no less."

"Did you want more?"

"Nia...please" trying to derail her from her inquisitive path. Maybe she wanted advice on how to move forward with Adil but I wasn't ready to speak about Sekai. I wouldn't even have the right words for her, my feelings for Sekai always stayed buried in my heart for good reason.

Adil and Siyani walked up to join us. "If we have no destination in mind, let us take Zara to our retreat. We're headed towards the river anyway," Siyani said from beside me.

"Yes, Zara. You would love it there. It might not be as magnificent as Izidaari, but it's a wondrous sight," Nia said, her smile gleaming.

"Alright, let's go."