After the tumultuous events that unfolded amid the night, a heavy shadow that had cast its veil over a certain district had been extinguished, allowing a sense of calm and tranquility to settle within the minds of the residents.
In the heart of the city, within the confines of her abode, Hannah immersed herself in a sea of paperwork.
Her office buzzed with the hum of technology, transparent monitors displaying a wealth of information before her discerning eyes. Her fingers danced across the keyboard, typing with precision and purpose, her attention unwavering.
Lost in the world of her work, Hannah remained oblivious to the little figure standing near the entrance of her office room, watching her with wide, curious eyes. The room was filled with a silence broken only by the soft hum of electronics.
"Always leaving everything to me... a bunch of rats there are."
She said, seemingly to no one but herself. A brief expression of annoyance and fury flashed across her eyes.
Yet, her skilled fingers continued to dance across the holographic keyboard, tapping into various databases, cross-referencing data, and searching for any leads that could shed light on the recent events.
As she delved deeper into her investigation, her mind raced with theories and possibilities. She connected the dots, piecing together fragments of information to form a clearer picture. Clues led her down a labyrinthine path, unveiling a network of criminal activities intertwined with the Plunderer's operations.
"Still... the individuals who caused his death do intrigue me."
*Ding*
"Hmmm... oh?"
A message from an informant had arrived, promising valuable information. Hannah's eyes narrowed, her curiosity piqued.
"Interesting..."
She muttered under her breath as she opened the message, her gaze scanning the words with a keen eye. The informant's tip hinted at a possible connection between the Plunderer and a powerful underground syndicate operating in the city. It was a lead that could potentially unravel the mysteries surrounding the criminal's actions.
"Food for thought..."
"..."
The child who stood near her office door continued to gaze at Hannah with a sense of hesitation, uncertainty evident in their small frame.
Soon after, they spoke in a small but hesitant voice.
"Mom?"
In that instant, time seemed to freeze. Hannah's hands trembled, and her gaze slowly shifted from the monitors to the child standing near the door. Her eyes welled up with a mixture of joy and disbelief, her heart pounding within her chest.
The fleeting interest that occurred when she saw the message from her informant instantly dissipated, like a cloud of morning mist.
"Jin..."
Her voice quivered, filled with emotions she struggled to put into words. For a moment, it felt like a dream, a surreal encounter that defied the boundaries of reality. She took a tentative step forward, her legs betraying her with their unsteady nature, but her determination to reach the child remained unwavering.
"Jin... my dear boy...."
"Mom...?"
Suddenly, as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over her, her dream-like state shattered. The blurry figure before Hannah transformed, revealing itself to be Sara... not Jin.
"Ah... Sara..."
Reality crashed down upon her, disappointment mingling with relief as the truth sank in. The fragile hope that had momentarily flickered within her heart shattered like glass, leaving behind a bittersweet residue of longing. She swallowed the lump in her throat, trying to push back the flood of emotions threatening to overwhelm her.
Forgotten was her work towards the investigation. Gone was the motivation to continue to do so. Her lips trembled, but she kept her emotions in check, not daring to let it out.
"... she's your daughter... you can't be feeling this..."
Her soft whisper hung in the air, a desperate plea to the universe to make sense of the tangled web of emotions entwined within her. But her words were lost in the vast expanse of her thoughts, drowned out by the weight of her longing.
Nevertheless, Sara's innocent voice broke through the haze, concern etched upon her face.
"Mom, are you feeling well?"
Hannah's gaze met Sara's, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. At that moment, her daughter's presence became a beacon of light in the storm of her conflicting emotions. The love she felt for her child welled up inside her, overpowering the temporary anguish that had clouded her heart.
Soon after, a happy and beautiful smile bloomed on Hannah's face, illuminating her features with warmth and affection. Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of joy and relief as if finding solace in the embrace of her daughter's innocence.
Hannah gracefully lowered herself to her knees, her arms opening wide to envelop Sara in a comforting and motherly embrace. The warmth of their connection flowed between them, a tangible bond that transcended any temporary sadness.
She gently patted and softly squeezed her most valuable treasure in her arms, cherishing every moment of their togetherness. The rhythmic beat of her heart reverberated through her body, a steady reminder of the love that bound them.
"I'm sorry... I just thought it was your brother for a moment... I'm sorry, Sara."
Sara's eyes widened with a mix of confusion and concern, her innocence unable to fully grasp the complexity of her mother's emotions. She tilted her head slightly, her curiosity evident.
"Ahh... brother? He's still in bed."
A tinge of sadness crossed Hannah's eyes, a fleeting shadow that betrayed the weight of her unspoken thoughts.
"I know..."
She continued to hold Sara in her embrace, finding solace in the warmth of their connection. But soon, she sensed her daughter's restlessness, the gentle squirming indicating a desire for freedom.
"Moooom..."
Hannah smiled, her voice laced with affectionate amusement.
"Hehe, fine, dear, fine."
Reluctantly, Hannah released her hold on Sara, allowing her to step back and regain her independence. Yet, her eyes never left her daughter's face, still filled with unconditional love.
"So, Ms. Lively, what has brought you up to my office, hmm? Does your tummy require... 'sustenance'?"
Sara's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and she playfully puffed them out in protest.
"Mommm... do not, I implo-... no, don't, TEASE ME!"
"Oh my, a little fierce today, aren't ya?"
Unperturbed by her daughter's protest, Hannah playfully pinched Sara's cheeks, eliciting a giggle from the young girl. With a swift and practiced movement, she scooped her up into her arms, cradling her securely against her chest. Together, they left the confines of the office behind, leaving the transparent monitors and paperwork to continue their unending display of information.
As Hannah carried her daughter through the corridors, Seraphina's gaze remained fixated on the displays, her eyes shining with an uncanny sharpness beyond her tender years. The stream of information flowed before her, each piece contributing to a greater puzzle that only she seemed to grasp.
'I see...'
Unbeknownst to her, Hannah observed her daughter's focused expression, a mix of pride and joy that radiated from her eyes. She knew that Sara possessed a unique curiosity and intelligence that surpassed her tender age.
It was as if... she held a key to unlock hidden truths, her inquisitive mind delving into the depths of knowledge with an insatiable hunger.
And with each passing day during motherhood, Hannah's happiness grew. She marveled at her daughter's bright spirit and unwavering hunger for knowledge. If Sara was already this bright as a child, what potential lay dormant within her, waiting to blossom in the years to come? The possibilities were both thrilling and humbling.
However, amidst her joy...
'...'
Hannah couldn't help but be reminded of the challenges they faced.
Her thoughts involuntarily turned to Jin, her youngest child, whose journey was filled with obstacles yet to be overcome.
As they walked together in silence, the unspoken weight of Hannah's concerns hung in the air.
Seraphina, attuned to Hannah's thoughts, mirrored her contemplative mood.
'Verily... this continues to be quite the hurdle...'
As they made their way through the apartment, a glimmer of determination sparked in Hannah's eyes. She broke the silence with a gentle smile.
"Let's go out, shall we? We could use some fresh air and perhaps explore something new."
...
...
...
Heliosia, the city of grandeur and innovation, stood as a testament to human ingenuity and progress. Its towering structures reached toward the sky, adorned with sleek lines and shimmering glass panels that reflected the radiant sunlight.
The cityscape was a symphony of architectural marvels, an amalgamation of futuristic design and awe-inspiring aesthetics.
As one strolled through the streets of Heliosia, the city's vibrant energy embraced them. The air buzzed with palpable excitement, an undercurrent of possibility and discovery. The city's inhabitants moved with purpose, their footsteps echoing on the polished walkways, their faces alight with anticipation.
Heliosia also boasted an array of culinary delights that catered to every palate. Street vendors offered tantalizing aromas of sizzling delicacies, while upscale restaurants beckoned with their avant-garde creations. From traditional delicacies to fusion cuisine that pushed the boundaries of taste, Heliosia's food scene was a true feast for the senses.
"Delicious war hog meat coming right up!"
"Anybody... y'all want a taste of this heavenly stick?!"
"Ew..."
"Wait... hey! Come back here, you haven't tasted my heavenly-"
*SLAP*
"..."
"...perhaps I could gi-"
"Get the fuck out."
"..."
Anyways, the city's entertainment options were equally remarkable. Imposing theaters showcased the latest theatrical productions, captivating audiences with stunning visuals and immersive storytelling. State-of-the-art cinemas boasted cutting-edge technology, whisking moviegoers away on cinematic journeys like never before. Shopping malls, with their gleaming storefronts, showcased the latest fashion trends, high-tech gadgets, and exquisite works of art, offering a paradise for the discerning shopper.
Within one of the biggest shopping malls named 'Radiant Paragon', a vibrant family made their way through the labyrinth of shops and boutiques.
Hannah, with a mix of amusement and concern, observed as her energetic daughter, Sara, pulled her slightly lethargic brother, Jin who continued to stumble in his wake, from one shopping place to another.
"Come on, Jin, move your a-... just move it!"
Sara's voice carried a blend of impatience and excitement, her determination undeterred by her brother's sleepiness or lack thereof.
Hannah's eyes twinkled with amusement as she witnessed Sara's persuasive tactics in action. However, her watchful gaze also held a tinge of concern, ensuring that her children stayed safe amidst the shopping frenzy.
As they explored the various sections of the mall, Sara's eyes lit up with delight as she spotted a display of colorful macarons.
"Jin! Look, they even have macarons!"
Nonetheless, unbothered by the smell of sugary sweets, he remained silent, his expression sleepy as his eyes continued to droop ever so slightly.
"..."
Sara, with her adorable pout, turned to her mother, her eyes pleading for permission.
Hannah couldn't help but be enchanted by her daughter's innocent gaze, a smile playing at the corners of her lips.
"Of course, go ahead!"
Sara's face lit up with joy as she eagerly led Jin toward the macarons.
"Hehe! C'mon, let's go-... Ah! Don't fall!"
Amidst the delightful chaos of her children's antics, Hannah's attention was momentarily drawn to a massive display mounted on one of the pillars in the mall. It featured a charismatic figure, who spoke with unwavering fervor as if her very life depended on it.
{Good morning to you, Heliosia! This is your host, Layla, speaking! As you know, at the beginning of this year, we made an announcement to notify the citizens of this wonderful city that our yearly enrollment has come around! As always, Radiant Academy will be accepting students starting at the age of 16 to have them enroll in this prestigious academy! However, with this great opportunity comes the requirement for our aspiring students to work hard and prove their dedication to their chosen path...}
Hannah's gaze lingered on the display, a mix of concern and contemplation clouding her expression. The mention of Radiant Academy stirred something within her, a recognition of the significance it held for the people across Heliosia.
As Sara's laughter filled the air, Hannah's mind began to wander, contemplating the possibilities that lay ahead for them and the challenges they would face. She knew that the path to success would require dedication and hard work...
Hannah knew... she knew that her children would at some point enroll in an academy.
{Of course, as Radiant Academy is renowned as the premier academy in our city, we hold our students to the highest standards. The minimum requirement for enrollment is for your children to have reached the stage of Adept of Aura Harmonization! We encourage parents who wish to have their children enroll in our academy to ensure that they undergo proper training and preparation to meet these criteria. Our academy offers various resources and guidance to help aspiring students achieve their full potential. So, if you dream of your children joining the ranks of the elite Aura Harmonizers, start their training now and give them the opportunity to shine at Radiant Academy!}
As Hannah absorbed the words spoken, her countenance grew more pensive, a subtle hint of hesitation and reluctance settling upon her features.
'Their training... they'll officially start when they're 10...'
She mused, her frown deepening ever so slightly.
It is widely known that in Solara, the world of Aura Harmonizers, the age of 10 holds significant importance as it represents a pivotal milestone for children who possess a profound connection to the ethereal aura that envelops them. It is during this critical period that their veins become exquisitely attuned to the rhythmic flow of energy, and their innate capacity to synchronize with their aura reaches its peak.
The significance of starting training at this age cannot be overstated. It is a pivotal period for young Aura Harmonizers to strengthen their core foundations, refine their control over their abilities, and tap into the vast potential that lies within them.
By immersing themselves in rigorous training and guidance, they lay the groundwork for a future of mastery and skill.
For Hannah, this understanding weighed heavily on her mind. She knew that the path to success and fulfillment for her children rested upon their readiness and preparation. As a dedicated and caring mother, she was committed to ensuring they had the best possible start in their journey toward becoming Aura Harmonizers.
In spite of that... was she ready for that specific day to happen?
After all, the first step to becoming an Aura Harmonizer is to establish a profound connection with the aura that surrounds them.
Hannah understood that this connection could only be initiated by opening their Aura Veins, a process that entailed immense pain and suffering.
Her lips trembled slightly as her fist clenched, her nails digging deep into her palm.
"..."
The mere thought of subjecting her beloved children to such torment caused her heart to ache with sadness.
However... as a single mother, Hannah had to grabble with the weight of her responsibilities.
She knew that to prepare her children for the challenges that lay ahead, she would have to confront the inevitable and make the difficult decision to have their Aura Veins opened.
It was a sacrifice she was willing to make, knowing that it was a necessary step toward their growth and development.
Ultimately, she was aware that someday her children would have to fly on their own in a world full of uncertainty... the inevitable will eventually come.
"..."
"Mom, look! Look!"
Shaken from her contemplation, Hannah's attention was immediately drawn to Sara, who seemed to be holding Jin tightly in her embrace.
"Hmm?"
With her curiosity piqued, she leaned in closer and noticed a smudge of... what appeared to be macarons on Jin's lips.
"...?"
The sight of his perpetually droopy eyes combined with the messy evidence left no doubt in Hannah's mind.
"Did you..."
"No... I did not smash... his face into food..."
Confusion intermingled on Hannah's face as she tried to make sense of Sara's response.
"What...?"
"...not this time, at least..."
Hannah's eyebrows shot up in surprise as she struggled to comprehend what her daughter meant.
Before she could probe further, Sara let out an exclamation, her voice laced with both guilt and fear.
"Uhh... mother- AHH!"
And just like that, the scene transformed into a chaotic blend of scolding and laughter. Hannah found herself reprimanding Sara, albeit with a hint of amusement, while Jin, after being let go of his sister's embrace, peacefully slept on the ground amidst the bustling mall.
Amidst the cacophony of their playful banter, Hannah couldn't help but chuckle at the sight before her. Ordinary moments like these, filled with love, laughter, and the occasional mischievous act, were what made their journey as a family so special.
In the vibrant atmosphere of Heliosia's bustling mall, surrounded by futuristic marvels and the laughter of Sara and Jin's peaceful countenance, Hannah's heart swelled with joy and gratitude. These were the memories she cherished, the moments that would forever be etched in her soul as a testament to the love and bond she shared with her children.
...
..
.