Chapter Seven

Livian's POV

The library provided me with a sanctuary, a refuge from the complexities of the palace and its politics. Here, I delved into scrolls and ancient tomes, searching for answers about my elemental ability —Fire. The shelves, stacked with the wisdom of ages, were my haven. Within this quiet retreat, the smell of aged parchment and leather-bound books filled the air, invoking a sense of connection to the past.The ambiance of the library provided a certain solitude that I found comforting.

Even within the vast collection of scrolls, finding detailed information about the element of Fire was a challenging task. But I was determined to understand more about my element, to grasp it, harness its power, and unlock its secrets. The knowledge could be the key to defending Valmore, and that responsibility weighed heavily on my shoulders.

Then Elara, the maid who served Aranya, interrupted my focus. I had little patience for disruptions when engrossed in my readings ,

I scarcely looked up from the book I held , and with a tone of determination, I issued my response: "Tell her that I would come when I want to, not when she tells me to."

I was quick to dismiss her message to Mrs. Helt. She understood that I wouldn't be dictated by schedules or expectations. I would attend to my responsibilities in my own time, but knowledge was paramount.

Hours later, I strode toward the courtyard where classes typically convened. The students and faculty were still gathered, and Aranya attention was fixed on Dairon, who, in a rare moment of seriousness, demonstrated his control over the fiery element.

Dairon, as always, couldn't resist his playful and somewhat mischievous demeanor. He showcased his powers, flaunting the control he had over his fiery element. Aranya, an outsider thrust into our world, seemed genuinely fascinated by his abilities, a reaction that irked me.

My own control over the element of Fire often manifested as a fiery temper, and my patience wore thin when Dairon playfully described our elemental differences.

As I approached, Aranya, with an arch of her brow, questioned the true nature of my fiery temperament. "Does anyone tell you how mean you are?" she asked, her candor capturing Dairon's amusement.

Dairon, never one to miss an opportunity to provoke me, playfully detailed our elemental differences, often framing them as a jovial sibling rivalry.

Aranya's candid remark cut through the conversation, earning a chuckle from Dairon and a pointed glare from me. They were talking about my character and attitude as though I were invisible.

"And what's his element?" Aranya asked, casting an inquisitive glance in my direction.

"Fire, explains his mood all the time," Dairon responded with a laugh, seemingly enjoying himself at my expense.

Even as Dairon continued to describe our elemental disparities, I remained a silent observer, my annoyance simmering beneath the surface. The fact that an entire conversation about me had unfolded without a single direct question thrown my way only added to my vexation. But I kept my stoic demeanor, the fiery core of my element hidden from their view.

In my world, understanding and controlling Fire had always been a solitary endeavor, and I had never been forthcoming about my abilities. The element of Fire had shaped me, molding my character into something others might perceive as hot-headed or temperamental. Now, with Aranya's presence and the mysteries surrounding her, it was becoming increasingly apparent that our elements would be a focal point of interest .