daughter of darkness and light

Chapter: A New Beginning for Lily

As the sun rose, signaling the last day of the month, Anastasia knew it was a crucial day—test day for all the students. The air buzzed with anticipation as each class completed their evaluations. Success rippled through the students, one by one. Eventually, it was Lily’s turn. The young girl stepped forward, trembling slightly. She began the test but faltered, ultimately failing.

The room fell silent as Lily’s head drooped in defeat. Anastasia walked over, her expression soft but determined. "Don’t worry, Lily," she said gently. "Failure is just a stepping stone to success." She turned to the class and instructed, “Everyone else, you’ve passed. Lily, stay back for a moment.”

Once the others left, Anastasia and Lily were alone on the training ground. Kneeling beside her, Anastasia asked, “Lily, you were the only one who struggled. What’s bothering you?”

Tears welled up in Lily’s eyes as she stammered, “I... I can’t do it. I don’t know anything about magic. I’m just not capable…”

Anastasia’s heart ached at the sight of the distraught girl. Without hesitation, she pulled her into a comforting embrace. “Where are your parents?” she asked softly.

“I don’t have any,” Lily whispered as she broke down into sobs. “I’m an orphan.”

Anastasia held her tightly as she cried, murmuring soothing words. After a few minutes, Lily looked up, wiping her eyes. “I’m sorry I dirtied your clothes,” she apologized.

Anastasia smiled warmly. “There’s nothing to apologize for. Lily, I want to help you. Would you like to be my student and—if you’re willing—my sister?” Her tone was filled with hope.

Lily’s eyes widened in shock. “But... you’re the goddess. I don’t want to be a burden to you.”

Anastasia’s expression turned tender. “You’re not a burden, Lily. Please, let me be there for you.”

After a moment of hesitation, Lily nodded. “Okay. I’d like that.”

Anastasia’s face lit up with joy. “Then it’s settled.” She took Lily’s hand and led her to her home. As they walked inside, Bella ran over excitedly. “Auntie’s back!” she exclaimed.

Anastasia bent down and kissed Bella’s forehead. “Where are Gabriel and Draven?” she asked.

Bella pointed to the living room. “They’re in there.”

Anastasia led Lily to the living room and closed the door behind them. Gabriel looked up curiously. “Who is she?”

“She’s my student,” Anastasia explained, “and from now on, she’ll be staying with us.” She then introduced Lily to Draven, Gabriel, and Talia.

After showing Lily around, Anastasia guided her to an empty room near her own. “Do you like it?” she asked.

Lily’s face brightened. “I love it!” she said, hugging Anastasia tightly.

With a snap of her fingers, Anastasia summoned all the furniture and clothes needed to make the room feel cozy and welcoming. “Go freshen up,” she instructed, “and then come downstairs for dinner.”

Later, at the dinner table, Lily sat beside Draven, still a bit shy but gradually relaxing. As they ate, the family laughed, talked, and asked Lily about her life. Her nervousness melted away as they included her in their conversations.

Anastasia chuckled at one of Lily’s witty remarks. “You’re quite funny,” she said with a grin, making Lily blush.

After dinner, everyone began heading to bed. Anastasia walked Lily to her room and knelt down to look her in the eye. “If you need anything, just ask me. I’m here for you, like a sister.”

Lily nodded, her heart full for the first time in a long while. “Thank you,” she whispered.

Anastasia smiled, gave her one last hug, and then went to her own room, finally settling in for the night with a sense of peace.