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I recalled the intense pain and the overwhelming energy that had coursed through me on the beach. "It was... overwhelming," I admitted, a shiver running down my spine at the memory.

"That's because your body isn't used to channeling such power," IM said. "The Unveiled are born with a natural affinity for magic, but yours was dormant for so long that it needs to be awakened gradually."

"But how do I do that?" I asked, eager to learn more.

"Through training and practice," IM replied. "You need to learn to control your emotions, to channel your energy, and to focus your will. It will take time and discipline, but with my guidance, you will master your powers."

He paused, his gaze intense. "But be warned, Xian Ying," he continued, his voice a low rumble. "The path of the Unveiled is fraught with danger. Your enemies will not hesitate to exploit your weaknesses, to use your power for their own selfish ends. You must be vigilant, always."

I raised my hand, flexing my bicep and flashing a playful smirk. "I'm stronger than you think," I declared, a surge of confidence coursing through me.

IM chuckled. "You look strong because of the steroid," he reminded me, his voice a gentle reminder of the temporary nature of my newfound strength. "Remember, Xian Ying, your mind can be your own worst enemy."

I nodded.

IM's expression turned serious. "There's something else you need to know about your power," he said, his voice grave. "It can be... dangerous."

I frowned, a sense of unease settling over me. "What do you mean?" I asked, my voice hesitant.

"Using Imagination Manifestation too frequently or recklessly can have severe consequences," IM explained. "It drains your Blue Blood, the energy that sustains your life force. If you deplete it too quickly, it can damage your brain and even cause you to lose your emotions."

My eyes widened in alarm. "Lose my emotions?" I repeated, the words chilling me to the bone.

"Yes, The Unveiled are not just conduits of power; we are also beings of intense emotion. Our feelings fuel our abilities, and without them, we become hollow shells, empty vessels devoid of purpose."

He paused, his gaze piercing into mine. "You must use your power wisely, Xian Ying," he warned. "Don't let it consume you."

I nodded, the weight of his words heavy on my shoulders. I had been so focused on the potential of my power that I hadn't considered the risks. But now, I understood the importance of balance, of using my abilities responsibly and with caution.

"I'll be careful," I promised, my voice filled with a newfound determination. "I won't let it control me."

IM smiled, a hint of pride in his eyes. "I know you won't," he said. "You are strong, Xian Ying. Stronger than you realize."

"... Why can't I just imagine my brain becoming more powerful?" I asked, a hopeful note in my voice. It seemed like a simple solution to the problem of overexertion.

IM blinked, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "You know," he said slowly, "that's not a bad idea..."

***

Back in City, the two SUVs pulled up to my house in the late afternoon. I sat in the living room, going over our plan one last time with Dove.

"So, we'll tell my parents that IM is lost and has nowhere to go," I summarized, "and that he'll be staying with me for a while?"

"Exactly," Dove confirmed. "It's the most plausible explanation we could come up with."

We piled out of the SUVs, the warm afternoon air a welcome change from the cool interior of the vehicles. A nervous tension hung in the air as we approached the front door of my house. This was the moment of truth, the test of our carefully crafted plan.

I took a deep breath and knocked on the door, my heart pounding in my chest. A moment later, my mother opened it, a surprised look on her face.

"Xian? You're back early," she said, her eyes scanning the group behind me with a hint of curiosity.

"Hey, Auntie~" Yolan greeted her warmly, her usual cheerful demeanor on full display.

Dove stepped forward, her expression serious. "Aunt, there's... something we need to talk to you about."

"Ah... come inside first," my mother said, ushering everyone into the living room.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, we all settled down, the tension in the air palpable. Dove began to explain the situation, carefully weaving a story about IM's supposed amnesia and his need for a temporary home.

"So," my mother said, her brow furrowed in concern, "IM was lost at sea... and he's forgotten who he is?"

I hope she buys this nonsensical story, I thought, my heart pounding with anxiety.

Everyone nodded in unison, their faces etched with feigned sympathy.

"Yes, Mom," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "He's lost his memory for the time being. Can he stay with me?"

My mother looked at me, then at IM, her expression softening. "It's up to you and your father," she said. "He's the one who pays the bills, after all."

Everyone chuckled awkwardly.

"But seriously," my mother continued, turning to IM, "that's so sad. You lost your memory?"

"Uh... yes, I did," IM lied smoothly, his expression a mask of innocence.

My mother seemed to accept IM's explanation, her initial suspicion replaced by a wave of sympathy. "Oh, you poor thing," she said, her voice filled with concern. "It must be so difficult to lose your memory like that."

"Xian's father already went to his tea shop," she continued, turning to me. "Let me call him, okay?"

She got up and went to her room, leaving us alone in the living room.

The Unveiled family exchanged knowing glances, a silent celebration of our small victory. It seemed our plan was working, and IM's presence in the house was, for now, accepted.

I looked at IM, a sense of wonder filling me. "So, normal humans can really see you now?"

IM nodded, a hint of pride in his voice. "For now, yes. And perhaps I should accompany you to school?"

"...If you can, I guess..." I replied, unsure how my classmates would react to having a mysterious newcomer in their midst.

My mother returned, her expression a mixture of concern and amusement. "Your father says it's okay for IM to stay with us, as long as you take care of him."

A chorus of cheers erupted from the Unveiled.

"Yes!" Yolan exclaimed, pumping her fist in the air.

"Let's go!" Aca added, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

< Chapter 080 > Fin.