The Love Hunter

Chapter 8

New Beginnings

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Six years have passed since I first discovered my powers. Grabe, parang ang bilis ng panahon. Parang kahapon lang, I was that confused, wide-eyed ten-year-old girl trying to wrap her mind around telekinesis and mind-reading. Now, I'm sixteen—older, more powerful, and definitely more cunning.

It wasn't easy, though. I had to practice every single day, refining the way I use my abilities para hindi ako ma-expose. I've perfected the art of subtly influencing people without them noticing—my mother, my father, even strangers in town. Over the years, my power has grown stronger, far beyond what anyone my age could achieve.

Kaya nga, ngayon, ready na ako.

I stood in front of the mirror, examining myself. Sixteen. Not exactly the age where I'd say I'm at my peak, pero damn, I look good. I smiled, my reflection smirking back at me.

'Crystalveil Academy', I thought. The prestigious school for magical elites, where only the best of the best could enter. But for me, it wasn't about learning magic. No, no, no—this was about something much more interesting.

I wasn't going there to study. Let's be real—I've already mastered my abilities. What's a few more spells and techniques when you can already bend people's thoughts and move things with your mind? No, Crystalveil was about opportunity.

And by opportunity, I mean boys.

Powerful, handsome, talented boys—ones who could match my level of skill. This was the place to meet them, to 'collect' them, as the Goddess of Love had hinted six years ago. 

Oh, yes. I haven't forgotten that little mission. It wasn't just about experiencing love; it was about experiencing many loves.

As I walked downstairs, my parents were already bustling around, preparing for my big day. "Lyra, anak, excited ka ba?" My mother asked, a wide smile on her face. I could hear her thoughts loud and clear. She was proud of me, her perfect daughter, excelling beyond expectations. If only she knew the real reason I was going to Crystalveil.

"Hindi ko na nga alam kung ano ang mararamdaman, Ma," I answered, playing along. Of course, she didn't know my true plans. "Pero I guess, excited din ako in a way."

My father joined us at the table. "You'll do great things there, Lyra. Alam naming proud si Kuya mo sa 'yo." He nodded approvingly. 

Ah, yes—my older brother, the one already studying at Crystalveil. I still hadn't seen him in years. But that was fine. Our time will come. For now, all I needed to do was focus on my own game.

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The trip to Crystalveil was uneventful. We rode in a carriage, passing through lush fields and small villages. The academy itself was located in a more secluded area, surrounded by mountains and forests. Its towering spires could be seen from miles away—majestic, intimidating, and full of promise.

As we approached, I felt my heart quicken. Not from nerves, but from excitement. 'This is it. The start of everything.'

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We arrived at the gates, where other students were gathering. Some were with their families, others had already arrived alone. Everyone looked so... focused. They were here to learn, to improve their magic. 'How boring'.

As I stepped out of the carriage, I immediately started listening. Thoughts, thoughts, thoughts. They buzzed in my mind like bees, some louder than others.

"I hope I get into the advanced spellcasting classes." "My parents are expecting me to be top of my class." "Do I look okay in this robe?"

I smirked. All these kids were worried about their academic performance, but me? I had bigger plans.

I scanned the area, taking in the faces of the other students. 'Sino kaya ang mga magiging... interesting targets ko?'

Just as I was looking around, one of the academy officials approached. He was tall and stern-looking, wearing the academy's emblem on his chest. "Welcome to Crystalveil Academy," he said, his voice booming. 

"Please proceed to the main hall for the opening ceremony."

I followed the crowd, but my mind was elsewhere. Now that I'm here, it's time to make my mark. Time to show them all what I can do, without them even realizing it.

The opening ceremony was long and formal—headmasters giving speeches about the importance of magical mastery, discipline, and respect for the craft. I almost yawned. 

There was nothing new for me here, nothing I hadn't already learned on my own. What was interesting, however, were the other students. The thoughts I picked up were revealing more than their expressions ever could.

"I have to impress the instructors." "I can't let anyone see how nervous I am." "I hope the prince is here this year. He's so handsome!"

Oh, now that's interesting, I mused. A prince, huh? I filed that bit of information away for later.

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When the ceremony ended, we were all directed to our dormitories. I walked with a group of girls, none of whom I was particularly interested in. Their thoughts were predictable, and honestly, a bit dull. But that was fine. This wasn't about making friends, anyway.

As I settled into my dorm room, I began mentally preparing for the days ahead. I had one goal: find the most powerful, most handsome boys in this academy, and make them mine. With my mind-reading abilities and telekinesis, I had the perfect tools to manipulate situations to my advantage. I just needed to be careful, strategic. No one could know about my powers.

I closed my eyes and let out a deep breath, feeling the energy hum beneath my skin. Six years of practice. Six years of honing my skills. I'm ready.

Tomorrow, it all begins. 'Crystalveil Academy doesn't know what's about to hit it.'

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Lying in bed that night, I allowed myself a moment to reflect. I've come a long way from that confused little girl with overwhelming powers. Now, I'm confident, cunning, and I know exactly what I want.

And as for love? Well, I'm not looking for the kind of love others seek. I'm here for fun, adventure, and maybe a little chaos along the way. After all, love is supposed to be exciting, right?

I smiled to myself. Let the games begin.

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to be continued......

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