Secrets of Elemental Kingdoms

Winds of Hidden Fire

A Spark Ignites: Arvanya's First Day of Vortex Academy and Tension

Arvanya's POV:

The soft rays of the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over the room. I stirred in bed, feeling the comforting warmth and lingering hints of a strange dream. Fire, water, shadows...they danced through my mind, vivid yet fleeting, leaving a sense of anticipation that stirred something within me.

Before I could linger too long in thought, a familiar, chipper voice broke through.

"Aria, wake up! You've got to freshen up and get ready for class!" Esme's cheerful voice cut through the quiet, using my fake name with all the enthusiasm of a true morning person.

I sighed, reluctant to leave my cozy bed, but I knew Esme wouldn't let up. My roommate was one of those people who seemed to possess an endless supply of energy, never sluggish, always punctual.

Esme called again, louder this time. "Aria, breakfast is in twenty minutes! You don't want to miss it!"

I threw off the blanket, swinging my legs out of bed with a grin. The cool floor underfoot jolted me fully awake as I stretched, catching sight of myself in the mirror. My long, dark hair was a bit messy, and my eyes were still heavy from sleep, but I pulled my hair into a messy ponytail, already feeling the familiar thrill of the day ahead.

"Alright, alright," I muttered, striding to the bathroom.

After showering, I stood in front of the mirror, my mind buzzing with the familiar pull of my powers. Fire, water, earth, air, and nature—my five elemental dragons were always there, coiled just beneath the surface, waiting to be unleashed. But I couldn't let that happen.

I took a deep breath, focusing inward. I called on the air dragon first, blending my essence with it to mask the presence of the others. I could feel the cool breeze surrounding me, a subtle veil over the burning fire, flowing water, solid earth, and the pulse of nature within me.

With a final breath, I solidified the disguise, making my aura mimic only the gentle scent of an air dragon. It was enough to keep anyone from sensing the full range of my powers. Safe, for now.

Stepping away from the mirror, I felt the familiar weight of my hidden powers settle back into place, tucked away beneath the surface as I prepared to face another day.

When I emerged, dressed in my usual style—a loose blouse and fitted pants—Esme was already waiting at the door, effortlessly stylish, her curly hair tied back in a loose bun.

"You're not still half-asleep, are you?" she teased, raising an eyebrow. "You're taking forever!"

"Wide awake," I replied with a grin. "Just saving my energy for the best parts of the day."

Esme's eyes sparkled as she linked her arm with mine. "Let's go, then! Breakfast is calling, and you don't want to be late."

As we entered the mess hall, the scent of fresh bread and sizzling food wafted from the kitchens. The large hall was filled with students from different kingdoms, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere. I felt a swell of pride as I took in the scene. I belonged here, even if they didn't know my true identity. And today, I would enjoy it to the fullest.

Esme eagerly grabbed a plate, piling it high with scrambled eggs, toast, and crispy bacon. "You've got to try the eggs here, Aria. They're amazing."

I nodded, picking up a lighter breakfast—some yogurt with fresh fruit, a croissant, and tea. I was too excited to eat much, but a little something before the day's classes couldn't hurt.