Dark Ascension

3

### Chapter 3: The Sister's Path

Arthur's sister, Liliana, chose a different path. She discovered a natural talent for healing magic and decided to pursue this vocation. Liliana accompanied their mother, Elara, in her work, learning about medicinal herbs and healing spells. She applied to the Aranel Healing Academy, a renowned school known for training the best healers in the kingdom.

Liliana's days were filled with a mix of learning and practice. She spent hours in the fields and forests, gathering herbs and studying their properties. Her mother taught her the basics of healing, showing her how to create salves, potions, and poultices. Liliana's innate magical ability made her an exceptional healer, and she quickly mastered the basics.

Liliana dedicated herself to her studies and healing practices, wishing to help her family and village. She knew her magic could save lives and alleviate suffering, and this gave her great satisfaction and purpose. She also knew that becoming a healer would allow her to support her brothers, each on their own paths.

---

One day, while gathering herbs in the forest, Liliana found a young deer caught in a trap. The animal was injured and frightened, its leg bleeding profusely. Liliana approached cautiously, using her calming magic to soothe the deer. She carefully removed the trap and began to heal its wound, her hands glowing with soft, green light.

As she worked, Liliana felt a deep connection to the deer, sensing its pain and fear. She focused her magic, channeling her healing energy into the wound. Slowly, the bleeding stopped, and the flesh began to knit together. The deer's eyes, once filled with terror, now looked at her with gratitude and trust.

This experience reinforced Liliana's resolve to become a healer. She knew that her magic could make a difference, not just for the people of Eldoria, but for all living beings. She decided to apply to the Aranel Healing Academy, seeking to further her knowledge and skills.

---

The application process was demanding, requiring both academic excellence and practical experience. Liliana submitted detailed reports of her healing practices and the various herbs she had studied. She also included testimonies from villagers who had benefited from her healing magic.

One evening, as she was preparing her application, Elara entered the room with a warm smile. "You've come a long way, Liliana. I'm so proud of you," she said, placing a gentle hand on her daughter's shoulder.

"Thank you, Mother. I couldn't have done it without your guidance," Liliana replied, feeling a surge of gratitude.

After weeks of anxious waiting, Liliana received a letter of acceptance from the Aranel Healing Academy. She was overjoyed, knowing that this was a significant step towards her goal. The academy was located in a beautiful city known for its gardens and serene atmosphere, a perfect place for a healer to learn and grow.

---

Liliana's first days at the academy were a whirlwind of activity. She attended lectures on magical theory and healing techniques, participated in practical sessions where she treated real patients, and studied the vast library of medical texts. The academy's instructors were experienced healers, each with their own areas of expertise.

One of her favorite instructors was Master Althea, a stern but kind woman with a wealth of knowledge. "Healing is not just about magic; it's about understanding the body and the mind," Althea often reminded her students.

Liliana quickly made friends with other students, forming bonds over shared experiences and aspirations. She met a young healer named Marcus, who specialized in herbal remedies. Together, they explored the academy's gardens, learning about rare plants and their healing properties.

"Did you know this plant can cure fevers and reduce inflammation?" Marcus said excitedly, holding up a leaf.

"That's amazing! I've read about it, but seeing it in person is so much better," Liliana replied, equally enthusiastic.

---

As Liliana's skills grew, so did her reputation. She became known for her gentle touch and intuitive understanding of healing magic. Her instructors praised her dedication and talent, and her fellow students often sought her advice.

One day, Liliana was called to assist in a critical case. A young boy had been brought in with a severe infection, and the other healers were struggling to stabilize him. Liliana stepped in, her hands glowing with healing light as she worked to cleanse the infection and heal the boy's wounds.

"Focus on the energy flow, Liliana. Let it guide you," Master Althea instructed, watching closely.

Liliana took a deep breath, feeling the magical energy flow through her. She concentrated, directing the healing magic into the boy's body. Slowly, the infection receded, and the boy's fever broke.

"You did it, Liliana! He's going to be okay," Marcus said, relief evident in his voice.

"Thank you, Marcus. And thank you, Master Althea. I couldn't have done it without your guidance," Liliana replied, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment.

---

Despite the demands of her studies, Liliana remained close to her family. She wrote letters to Arthur and Ethan, sharing her experiences and learning about their journeys. She knew that, though they were on different paths, they were united by their determination to make a difference in the world.

One evening, as she was writing a letter to Ethan, she paused and smiled. "I hope you're doing well, Ethan. I know you'll become a great warrior," she wrote, feeling a surge of pride for her brother.

Liliana's journey was just beginning, but she was already on the path to becoming a skilled and compassionate healer. She was determined to use her magic to help others, just as her mother had taught her. With each passing day, she grew more confident and capable, preparing herself for the challenges that lay ahead.