"Nothing's going to happen if you just throw your hands." Aerith said for the third time.
"I'm doing what you're telling me to!"
"El, you need control, purpose, and focus if you want anything to actually happen."
I was trying as best as I could, but nothing was happening. I try harder, but Aerith says it's too aggressive.
"Now it's too soft, you have to mean it."
I try just doing it, and that seems to satisfy Aerith. This is hard in a different way than expected.
Suddenly, a harsh spark flared.
Aerith's eyes widen in excitement and surprise. "Oh my Lindeir! Three days to show powers is definitely possible, but quite difficult, most people get it at least on their fifth day. I got mine on my seventh, that's incredible!"
The mother hears us and pokes her head around. "What's happened? Anything significant?"
"Uhh, yeah.... I showed powers."
The mother comes to congratulate me.
"That's incredible! Your father and I each did as well. What was it?"
"Ehhh... it was a little spark"
"Not little at all for your first show of magic, that was quite impressive."
Even though I haven't been here very long, the comment made me feel good about myself.
We keep training, the mother now watching with proud interest.
* * *
At some point, I make a puff of cold mist.
"That's your second power already, your father didn't even get it that fast!" My mother says, astonished.
"Woah...." It feels good, but... wrong.
Like I shouldn't be holding this, like someone else should.
Maybe the real Elvina?
Well, I think I am the real Elvina now.
What if Elvina was in my body doing the same as I am, getting used to lack of luxury and magic?
No way, that's ridiculous.
* * *
After we eat, my mother speaks to me about the abilities, and how it's very unique to have both shown so quickly.
Her tone is barely softer than that if she were talking to an employee she were still training, speaking to me with regal authority, only slightly tinted with motherly content. "Your abilities came quite early, a gift that is a luxury the world has gifted you. You have wonderful potential if you consistently train, and I will help guide you. We will discuss this more when the morning comes. Goodnight, El."
She leaves, the sun kisses the ground as it sets into the horizon, the orange and pink gradient blooming through the curtains as Sophia drifts to sleep.