The truth

[Asha's Study Room, Marquis Estate]

Asha sat at her ornate mahogany desk, the delicate hum of early morning filtering through the curtains. The room, a picture of opulence with its deep blue walls and golden accents, reflected the wealth of her father, the Marquis. Books of various subjects, including history, magic, and etiquette, were stacked neatly, each promising to unveil more of the world's secrets. Her personal maid, a gentle older woman named Mira, was dusting off the shelves quietly.

Asha, now five years old, had matured quickly in both intellect and appearance. Her long, dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her bright, inquisitive eyes revealed a mind far beyond her years. Despite her youth, she was already adept at handling complex magical theories and social intricacies. Her father's expectations weighed heavily upon her, but Asha's determination remained unwavering.

In another corner of the estate, a less grandiose room buzzed with the usual early morning activity. Asha's father, the Marquis, was engaged in a discussion with his advisor, Garrick . The advisor's expressions were serious as he relayed the latest political developments and issues concerning their neighboring states. Asha's father, known for his astute strategic mind, listened intently, occasionally interjecting with sharp, insightful comments.

The contrast between Asha's current life and Liam's past was stark. Liam, born into a wealthy family, had always been the center of attention due to his intelligence and natural talent. He had a sharp mind and a talent for academics, but his arrogance often overshadowed his abilities. He was known for his competitiveness and his belief in his own superiority.

One of his earliest rivalries was with Raphael, a classmate who seemed to excel in everything Liam found challenging. To Liam, Raphael appeared almost like a figure cloaked in mystery—his intellect seemed boundless, and his ability to outshine Liam at every turn was both frustrating and awe-inspiring.

Despite their rivalry, Liam couldn't help but feel a strange fascination with Raphael. The mask he wore, both literal and metaphorical, intrigued him. Raphael's knack for outperforming him in various subjects and competitions only fueled Liam's desire to best him. Yet, despite his own arrogance, Liam began to admire Raphael's capabilities, and a begrudging respect slowly turned into genuine affection.

The turning point came during a school event where Raphael and Liam were pitted against each other in a series of physical challenges. Liam, though excellent in academics, was not as proficient physically. Raphael's performance in these challenges further impressed Liam, and their rivalry softened into a reluctant camaraderie.

Liam began to spend more time with Raphael, often forgetting their rivalry and forming a friendship. The more they interacted, the more Liam's feelings for Raphael grew. But he kept these emotions hidden, unwilling to expose his vulnerability.

One day, while eavesdropping on a conversation between Raphael and a classmate, Liam overheard something that shattered his heart. The classmate had asked Raphael if he had any romantic feelings towards Liam. Raphael's response was clear and hurtful: he saw Liam only as a friend and nothing more, citing the societal constraints and harsh treatment towards same-sex relationships.

The revelation left Liam devastated. He returned home that evening, his emotions a storm of heartbreak and disappointment. He found solace in tears, feeling both the weight of his parents' expectations and the sting of unrequited affection. His mother, observing his distress, offered no comfort, focusing instead on urging him to study harder and live up to his potential.

The pressure from his parents and the pain of rejection drove Liam into a spiral of despair. He felt trapped between the expectations placed upon him and the agony of his personal feelings.

In his sorrow, Liam sought an escape from the life that had become unbearable. The opportunity came in the form of a strange, otherworldly experience. One moment he was grieving in his room, and the next, he found himself in a realm of nothingness.

A disembodied voice, resonating with both authority and mystery, spoke to him: "Liam, you will be gifted with two mythical skills in this world. Make good use of them."

Liam's surroundings shifted to a strange place , and he was awakening in a new world. This new realm was vastly different from the one he had known. The landscape was filled with magic and mystical creatures, a stark contrast to the modern world he had left behind. His new body, though not yet fully adjusted, felt both foreign and promising.

This will be your experience in another world. All we need is your permission. The another voice's words echoes on his head promising his experience in this world world won't be grim and asked for his permission.

[Do you want to continue, Liam ]

Liam smiled upon hearing the question and promised unknown land.

Back in Asha's world, the young girl looked out the window, her thoughts a tangle of the complex world she was beginning to understand. She had seen many things and learned much, but the memory of her father's distant demeanor and the whispers of her own future weighed heavily on her.

As Asha prepared for her new experiences and the challenges ahead, the echoes of his friend Liam's past and Raphael now Asha's future intertwined, hinting at the inevitable convergence of their destinies.

The stage was set for the coming trials, where past and present would collide in ways neither could yet foresee.