(Not Continued Again)
12. Library and magic

Elthia sat quietly in her place. The super thick book he borrowed in the library, became his center of attention.

Right now, the three of them were trying to harmonize with each other the magic waves they had. Although not as sweet as Elthia, Evander who quite likes to read also sought tranquility by staying in the library. In this silent place, the three of them focused on their respective readings. Because the process of equalizing magic waves between people is not easy and requires a high level of concentration. Thus, the library is a suitable place for those who want tranquility.

With a calm atmosphere, concentration is easier to get. An atmosphere of silence that is far from the hustle and bustle of the crowd, can make them much more focused on what they are doing now.

Yep. At least it should be. However, for some reason instead of feeling the calm, Elthia actually felt restless. The gaze that was always on the three of them was very annoying. Elthia who could no longer bear that piercing gaze sighed. Elthia stopped the activity of reading it and stared at flat Rio who looked calm, not piqued in the least.

"So this feels like the attention others are paying to you." Glancing at the five people who were not too far away from them, Elthia revealed the sweetest smile she had when her eyes accidentally looked at one of the disciples sitting there.

"I didn't expect you to attract such attention."

"I don't think you deserve to tell me that." Rio also stopped reading. A small grin was seen adorning her lips. "Aren't you two also so flashy to notice?"

Elthia followed the direction of the focus of Rio's second red netra. "Oh, this." The silver-colored hair that they both inherited from their father, was extremely difficult to hide. "I can understand their admiration when I see this color."

The rarity of the silver mane on the continent of Lucinda is enormous. Of the many people who live in the three lands, only the pure descendants of the Lucretian family alone have this beautiful color. So, no wonder if wherever they go people's gazes are always focused on the two of them.

"So I'm used to being the center of attention."

"Then what are you worried about?" Rio propped up his chin. Rio's smile show. The absurd rant that Elthia gave, somehow became a pleasure in itself for him. Honestly speaking, exchanging opinions with Elthia never once made him feel bored.

"Because you're used to it. Doesn't it add a little attention to you, it doesn't mean much?"

"Yes. That doesn't mean anything." Elthia plays a small part of her hair. Given how much attention the two of them had gotten so far, of course Elthia would also be able to judge him indirectly. Whether it's admiration, envy, hate, or hostility and kindness is just a formality. The gaze that everyone gives is like a mirror where information is obtained for him. Reading what was in one's heart through the twinkle of his eyes was a daily routine that Elthia had to do. If such a small thing could not be done, it was possible that Elthia and Evander could obtain permission from their father, and could study in this Secilia academy.

"Only, the attention we get after being with you feels so much different."

Oh. this is interesting.

Rio smiled slightly. The interested sparkle was clearly visible in both of his eyes. "Are you able to guess what kind of emotions are contained in their gazes?" the question, accompanied by a challenging tone. Seeing how observant the two twins in front of him were, Rio clearly felt curious as to what their ability was in guessing someone's mind.

"To be around him will only lead you to misfortune. Why hasn't he left here yet? Shouldn't a damned child like himself be better off if he were to die?"

One by one the insults, imitated with full imitation by Evander. The condescending tone that Evander used was really felt. Not to mention, the contemptuous gaze that Evander gave. The sharp spotlight as if Evander was disgusted by the existence of the figure of Rio, was extraordinary. As the audience, Elthia as well as Rio clucked in awe. The role that is so animating from Evander looks very natural. Because of her nature, Elthia and Rio became doubtful. They wondered if Evander was jokingly saying that just for the sake of giving an example, or actually revealing it in person.

"L-excellent." Elthia gave the first response. The astonished sparkles did not fade in the slightest from his two eyes. "I didn't expect big brother to show it so perfectly like that."

During this time, they both had indeed learned one of the arts of survival in the social environment taught by Sebastian that one. However, they only use it appropriately, and that too if it is really necessary.

Seeing that Evander could be so perfect in mimicking it. To be honest, Elthia felt a little defeated. Elthia did not expect Evander's ability to control emotions to increase as great as this in a short time.

"You amaze me." After successfully controlling himself, Rio gave a comment. The look on his face looked so satisfied when Evander's flat gaze had returned.

"When I'm sure you're not the type of person who easily piqued the difference. However, after seeing the way you exemplified it earlier, it seems like I have to rethink my judgment of you."

"Is that a compliment? If yes, then I'm very grateful."

Rio chuckled a little. The short, reluctant answer Evander gave had absolutely no effect. Rio wouldn't be provoked if it was just because of such a small thing.

"Yes. That's compliment. The abilities of the two of you far exceed my expectations."

Elthia laughed a little. "If not, how could we possibly survive by your side." That sweet-wrapped innuendo, Elthia was aiming specifically for Rio. The frowning face that Rio gave in return, only Elthia responded in the form of a sinless smile.

"Do you feel anything strange?" Rio who had realized that he would not win if he continued to argue with Elthia, switched their conversation. Rio ignored the smile of Elthia's victory, as well as the laughter that Alta tried to hold back over her defeat this time.

"If what you mean is the atmosphere of this room. I've felt it since the five people there left." Evander pointed to the spot where their scouts were sitting before. The five bullies who managed to ruin his mood, clearly had a striking existence. So, of course Evander can also realize their departure, which is due to not being able to bear the deadly smile of Rio on the sidelines of his conversation with his twin sister.

"Do you know what caused it?"

It was impossible for Rio to offend such a thing, if he did not know about it. One week with Rio was enough for the Lucretia brothers to realize some of her habits. Even if they were both still nine years old, the ability they possessed could not be underestimated. This terrible sensibility they have is incredible. And this is, one of the reasons why they are always wary of others even if they are still not physically mature.

"Which flow settings you guys are very good. Not to mention, you are also able to realize most of your imagination through magic."

Rio looked seriously at the two twins in front of him. The innocent face of a nine-year-old boy from the Lucretia brothers in front of him will not make him fooled. Although it looks as if they do not know anything, Elthia and Evander belong to the group of children who have a lot of knowledge.

As a child born into a famous family, the position that Evander and Elthia had could not be underestimated. Knowledge, ability, position. They both have almost everything. Not to mention, now there is a power that has disappeared, even considered destroyed in them. It was becoming increasingly influential for the strong existence of the Lucretia twins.

It's critical.

As the one who became their guide, Rio could not take action rashly. The existence of these two children in front of him was almost equivalent to the existence of a country itself. It is like the national treasure of the Pyralis. Elthia and Evander must be well guarded. Rio would not let the two of them fall into the hands of the wrong person. Because, if Rio let that happen, disaster can certainly meet them all.

Not only the three of them, Rio was sure the scale of the impact to be obtained could even exceed the breadth of this Secilia academy. Worst possibility, if the existence of these two brothers known to the kingdom of Istvan and abused, war between the two countries can occur very high. The kingdom of Eleftharia could not have allowed a powerful sorcerer like the two of them to be used. On the contrary, the Istvan Kingdom that had made a dark history, would certainly use all means to be able to take advantage of the two of them.

"Because you've mastered those two basic things, I think you can intervene directly."

The puzzled look on Elthia and Evander over her words, Rio ignored. Looking around at their already deserted surroundings as the learning hours had already begun, Rio took this opportunity to develop the twin forces of Lucretia directly.

"You're gonna skip theory class today. Get ready, I'll show you something interesting."

Without asking for the readiness or approval of Elthia and Evander, Rio walked first. Behind him, just as Astrella and Astra were swiftly following their master, Alta also did the same. Familiar who always wore his human form, followed obediently without issuing a single protest. His unusual calm expression, of course, more inviting question marks. As people used to hear Alta's ravings, Elthia and Evander felt an unpleasant feeling fill the heart. They hoped, it was just an instant anxiety. Because, it was enough for them to see the amazing expressions of Alta, Elthia and Evander did not want something bad and troublesome to come to them both.

°·°·°·°·°·°

"Can you feel it?"

Rio asked the question as soon as they arrived right in the main hall of the library. His face looks very serious right now.

Evander and Elthia nodded simultaneously. "Yes. And it feels stronger than ever." Tell them with his comp.

The strange feeling that had disturbed the three of them felt increasingly more when they were in this room. The main room of the library where there are many special seats reading this, at a glance, does not have the slightest discrepancy. For those who have the weakest strength, of course it will not be so pronounced. However, because Elthia, Evander and Rio were among the powerful magicians. They could clearly feel the cramped and gloomy feeling that was scattered in this room.

"I know this is not a good sign. But, can you tell me what will emerge from this gripping atmosphere?" Elthia was watching Rio seriously. The annoying sweet smile that Elthia used to make fun of the man, was now nowhere to be seen. "It would be better for us to be on guard. That way, we can avoid the worst that could happen."

"A curtain⁸ will appear in this place."

The no-nonsense answer Rio gave, managed to make Elthia and Evander surprised. The two of them did not expect, if the problem they got would be so serious like this.

"Why can a curtain appear in this place?! Shouldn't magic protectors not be destroyed that easily?!"

Rio glanced at Elthia. "I don't know what's causing it either."

Asking the two twins to slightly keep their distance from him, Rio stood firmly in his position. The white magic circle was seen shining brightly under his feet. "But this is a good opportunity. Look at it well."

Either Rio was too reckless, or had already lost his sanity. The action he took was clearly far from expected. Elthia and Evander did not expect, if the practice directly they got would be this complicated.

"You're crazy."

Not believing in their abilities. Neither Elthia nor Evander expected that their practice would be held so suddenly like this. Lucky they both include smart children, as well as quite brave. If only they did not have high confidence, they both gave up long ago.

Having a senior like this Rio could invite madness. If they did not have a high stock of sanity, of course the two of them could not keep up with Rio's unexpected plans like now.

"What should we do?"

"Watch it well. When any creature appears and comes out of the curtain, destroy them."

Rio glanced at the two twins behind him. A thin smile, beautifully painted on her lips. "You can do it, right?"

"Because we've done it once, I think, we can." Evander held Elthia's hand. It increasingly took some distance, as Rio gestured for them to stand a little further behind.

"Good."

Enlarging the scope of his magic circle, Rio told Alta to stand beside him. Rio gave the order for Alta to take other anticipatory actions.

"Because this one curtain is quite big."

Right after Rio said that, the atmosphere around instantly changed drastically. The room temperature dropped, and slowly the library floor started to freeze.

A gloomy aura black circle appeared right above the magic circle that Rio made. Luckily Elthia and Evander had already installed protective magic throughout this area of the library. So, the strong winds that blew when the dark creatures started to come out, did not spread haphazardly from the scope of their defense all.

"Alta! Help me purify the curtains!"

Following Rio's orders, Alta also exerted her strength against the curtain. Before the dark creatures could come out completely, the two of them had to purify it so that it could not cross at will.

Purifying the curtains is actually not too difficult. If they can do it quickly and at the right time, the curtain can be purified properly without the need to let the creatures of darkness cross first, then close it.

The white light emanating from Rio's body grew longer, growing more dazzling. As the light grew brighter, the pitch-black side of the open curtain also slowly turned white.

"It's over."

As soon as the side of the curtain changed color entirely, Rio eliminated his magic circle. Rio sighed tiredly. At his side, Alta swiftly cut the feet of the dark creature that wanted to cross, which was still stuck inside the curtain.

"Destroy it." Rio's orders to Evander and Elthia.

"All right."

Elthia and Evander stared fixedly at the piece of the dark creature. Raising their hands, the two twins concentrated their strength as soon as their hands grasped.

Pyasshs.

Elthia stared in amazement at the small details that landed on her palm.

Darkness purified by magic.

Elthia did not expect that something that looked terrifying from the creature, could turn into a beautiful grain of light like this.

"You can unleash your protective magic."

According to Rio's words. Elthia and Evander dispelled the protection magic they had created just in case. After the magic was unleashed, their vision now became a little clearer. Now, no more visible walls are in the way. The library can be accessed by anyone who wants to visit.

"What are we going to do to get rid of this?" Elthia pointed at the curtain that was plastered before her eyes. The deep black color of the curtain that is still visible even though it has been purified, is still as creepy as before.

"We can't get rid of it."

Rio knew letting a curtain like this was quite unsettling. However, no matter how powerful they were, this was the limit for a magician to clear them. Other than purifying, they could not destroy these curtains with their strength.

There are restrictions that magicians cannot break in certain respects. And clean up something related to space and time, including in it. Of course, it is no exception to destroy this one curtain.

"Because once purified, the curtain will disappear by itself.

The place where the creatures of darkness live is a different dimension to theirs, the human race. No matter how powerful a witch is. They have no authority to interfere in this.

"So, we report this to the teachers. Let them take the decision to close this library or not."

Elthia was staring at the departure of Rio who was so indifferent. "Purified curtains won't be able to reopen, right?"

Rio stopped his steps. His two red eyes stared fixedly at the two eyes of different colors of Elthia. However, for matters of curiosity about something, Elthia was not very good at hiding it. The spirit-filled sparkle that was clearly visible in both of his eyes made Rio sigh.

It seems, he should learn even more.

"Don't take too long. There's still a lot you need to learn."

Well, there was no harm in also giving permission for Elthia to add to her insights. Besides being able to reduce the burden a little, Rio himself also preferred children who were enthusiastic about knowledge. Rio was not too fond of stupid arrogant children, who could only utter nonsense. So, Elthia's enthusiasm in this matter could be received well. According to Rio, this sharp-mouthed child like Elthia is very suitable to be crammed with various kinds of knowledge. In addition to his ability to argue can increase. The words that will come out of the mouth can also feel many times more painful thanks to the knowledge it receives.

I can't wait anymore.

Just how developed Elthia was, to be honest made Rio a little curious. When they did not meet for about two months, Elthia could be this terrible. What if in the future? Play, use, and then suppress others. How many other abilities can he master in the future? How much energy did Elthia exert that she looked like a perfect child?

As the one who knew Elthia's greatest secret, Rio felt so many questions twisting in his head. If Rio let go of Elthia, there would be too many interesting things that he missed. Because just this time Rio found a figure as attractive as this silver-haired girl. Rio was so looking forward to his unexpected behavior. Approximately, how much influence this girl in changing the existing storyline?

Big, very big.

At the beginning of their meeting alone, Elthia could already make such a big change. Of course, in the future Rio was sure that there would be many surprising things that might happen.

"Be careful in controlling your power. Even if you manage to do well, it would be wise for you to practice more."

Elthia glanced at Rio who started walking back. "Yes. I'll hold myself back." Since Elthia also knew how big the limits of her abilities were, Elthia obeyed Rio's warning obediently. Indeed, Elthia was already able to stabilize the flow of mana within her body, as well as being able to realize magic well. However, as a beginner there are still many shortcomings that he has. Elthia was not used to feeling tired after using magic. The drastic reduction of mana in the body when magic is realized, still can not be adjusted properly. Because Elthia did not want to faint again like before. Elthia prefers to focus on researching something that would help in its handling.

"Elthia, I want to go back to reading. You okay being left here alone?"

Evander's enthusiasm for discovering new types of magic was as great as Elthia's. So, because Elthia also knows how much interest Evander has in that. Elthia certainly would not forbid her brother to read the book in their place earlier, and left her alone in the main room.

"Yes. You can go first." Elthia glanced at Astrella who was now in her human form. The faint smile he showed as a sign that he would remain on Elthia's side, Elthia understood very well.

In whatever form he is. Astrella is adorable.

"There's Astrella here. Just focus on that ancient magic."

"Master don't worry. I will accompany Miss Elthia here." Astrella, who understands Evander's anxiety, offers herself. It was his duty as a familiar to accompany wherever Elthia went, and to always be faithful to be by his side.

"If anything happens here, I'll send a distress signal through Astra."

As a family who are also brothers. Astrella and Astra have other advantages than a single familiar. Just how far apart the two of them were, Astrella and Astra were still able to communicate with each other through their minds.

"I trust Elthia to you."

Astrella nodded obediently. At his side, Elthia smiled faintly.

"Tell me if you find anything interesting, yes!" pinta Elthia when Evander had started walking away.

"Yes. I'll show you later."

Elthia noticed Evander's shadow, which had now begun to drift away. Once Evander had rejoined Rio and read together, Elthia turned her attention to the curtain that was before her. The enthusiastic sparkle that radiated from both eyes, could not be hidden anymore now.

"It's amazing!"

As for how scary even the black color from the middle of the portal that is on the curtain, Elthia could not fight her curiosity. The fear that had previously filled him, had now disappeared. Sucked away by his curiosity that is so hot.

"Tirai is the crossing place of the creatures of darkness. In the beginning, they could not cross like this. However, due to the events of the dark fog that had befallen this continent, it seemed like the magic protecting this continent was thinning."

On Elthia's side, Astrella explained without being asked. A faint smile seemed to adorn his lips. "The lack of silver trees further aggravates the existing conditions. Because, in addition to being a source of strength for the familiar. The silver tree also serves as a protector that sustains the continent from destruction."

"Is the destruction you're referring to is this continent ruled by creatures of darkness?"

Astrella nodded. This non-existence guess is not wrong.

"When magic really disappeared from this continent. I am sure it will be the end not only for the witches, but also for the human race."

"What about holy power? Isn't there still that power to maintain stability when magic doesn't exist anymore?"

It was true that some of the magic power had disappeared from this continent. However, as Elthia remembered there was still a holy power. Not just anyone can have it. However, if that person became the one chosen to possess it, that person would have a position equal to that of the witches.

"Even though they all banded together to make the seal. The chosen few will not be able to sustain this continent."

That bad?

Elthia did not think that the disappearance of magic would have such a bad impact. Elthia thought, the disappearance of magic only affects daily activities. Who would have thought that the dark fog that occurred hundreds of years ago, would have an impact of this magnitude?

But, it is also indirectly the answer to why the witches are treated special and bad at the same time.

On the one hand, people who lost their power, need the help of witches. While on the other hand, if there are witches who betray it will actually bring this continent to destruction.

Like a double-edged sword.

To avoid the worst possible. Clearly protecting the witches was the best option. However, for rulers who experienced a downfall such as king Istvan, the existence of witches could clearly threaten the security and peace of their lives.

It becomes clear why Luca is described so madly in the story.

Now, it seemed like Elthia could understand why the jealousy that prince Luca had could be that big.

How hard the single prince tried. He who is not elected, certainly impossible to get it.

Lucretia's family existed before king Istvan took the lead. The power they have is huge. And now? Coupled with the existence of Elthia and Evander who have powers that have been considered lost in the land of Pyralis. It is natural that they feel threatened. Especially the crown prince. Luca Alcander Istvan's. Unlike King Thaddeus Alister Istvan who chose to use subtle means to curb the Lucretian family, using the excuse of uniting two families and building strength. The way Luca chose it was brutal. However, even so, Luca is able to bury all the truth that exists neatly. The plan drawn up by the one prince certainly cannot be underestimated. As a person who was most likely to be targeted, Elthia could only hope and take steps carefully.

As much as possible, Elthia will find the best way out. Because that one prince is very cunning. Elthia certainly could not take any steps at all. Even though the one prince was not nearby, Elthia was still worried. Elthia was sure that their family must have been told to swear allegiance to the king by now. If not, how could their situation possibly feel this calm. How hard the king tried to drag him to the restraint. Elthia would not let him. Before that bad possibility actually happened, Elthia would make sure that the rope had been severed without being able to snare even a fingertip.

"Because basically that power can only be used to give blessings and healing to others. Of course the protective power possessed by the sacred power will not be able to protect this continent."

An explanation from Astrella, jolting Elthia from her daydream. Because it's too good for itself. Elthia did not listen well to what Astrella had just said to her.

"Can you repeat it?"

"I'm sorry?" because of Elthia's sudden request. Astrella was a little confused. The familiar was at a loss as to where he should start to explain.

"The reason why the holy power could not protect the continent of Lucinda from destruction."

Elthia who understood Astrella's confusion, gave a hint. Even so, Elthia did not regret that she had made Astrella feel confused. The puzzled expression Astrella displayed reminded Elthia of her cousin Elenio. Astrella, or Elenio. They both had adorable expressions when they were confused.

"Because basically the power of it-"

"MISS!!" astrella's explanation was cut off, surprising Elthia. Without even realizing what was happening, Elthia's body seemed to float. His angle of view which suddenly blocked Astrella's back was quite surprising to him.

"A-astrella? What's up?" Elthia, who was able to feel Astrella's tension, tried to look over Astrella's back. The two neutrals were round in disbelief when they accidentally caught the silver-haired figure that suddenly appeared behind the curtain that Rio had already purified.

"Finally. I found you."

The ambiguous speech of the figure, made Astrella even more alert. Behind Astrella's back, Elthia could only freeze. The two silver-haired netra silver figure when looking at him somehow gave off a sensation that was hard to pin down.

Elthia tightly grasped his uniform. The longing as well as tightness that appears along with the figure is really confusing. Elthia believed this was the first time she had seen the figure. Why then do tears flow without realizing it?

"My precious girl."

Curtain \= Gate commonly used by dark creatures to cross.