Chapter 3: Chapter 3: Evening Conversations and Secrets of the Oak Tree
The evening sky was a canvas painted in hues of orange and red, as the sun set over Bo City. The twilight air was cool, carrying the faint scent of blooming flowers, signaling the arrival of spring. The mansion stood grandly against this picturesque backdrop, its windows reflecting the fading daylight.
Light's sisters, Su Xuanhua and Su Hongxiu, had already retreated to the rooftop for their evening cultivation, a practice they had grown accustomed to over the years. The rooftop, spacious and open to the sky, provided a serene environment for meditation and magic practice. However, due to the nature of their elements—Su Xuanhua's lightning and Su Hongxiu fire—their energies would clash if they cultivated too closely together. This was why they couldn't share the same room for their sessions, as the conflicting energies could disrupt their focus and potentially cause harm.
Su Xuanhua had taken to using Light's room for her cultivation. Tonight, though, she chose the rooftop, basking in the last rays of the sun. Her posture was serene, seated cross-legged with her back straight, her eyes closed in deep concentration. The faint hum of electrical energy surrounded her, a testament to her affinity with the lightning element. The moonlight began to cast a silver glow over her, enhancing the aura of tranquility that enveloped her. Her features were calm, her expression peaceful, as she immersed herself in the flow of her magical energy.
Light approached quietly, not wanting to disturb her meditation. He admired his sister's dedication and the quiet strength she exuded. Su Xuanhua had always been the composed and thoughtful one, her calm demeanor a counterbalance to the volatile nature of her element.
"Evening meditation suits you," Light said softly, taking a seat beside her.
Su Xuanhua opened her eyes slowly, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "It's a time of day that brings a special kind of calm," she replied. "The transition from day to night, the fading light... it all contributes to a unique energy that's perfect for meditation."
They sat in silence for a moment, the bond between them evident in their easy companionship. Light, always eager to learn more about magic, couldn't resist asking, "Why do you and Hongxiu cultivate separately? Is it just because of your elements?"
Su Xuanhua nodded, her expression thoughtful. "It's primarily because of our elements, yes. Lightning and fire are both very powerful, but they can be quite volatile when combined. If we were to cultivate in the same room, the energies could clash and cause disruptions. It's not just about safety; it's also about ensuring we can fully concentrate on our training."
She paused, considering her next words. "Our elements require different conditions to thrive. For me, lightning is about balance and control. It requires a calm mind and a steady hand. Fire, on the other hand, is more about passion and intensity. Hongxiu's training is all about harnessing that power, shaping it without letting it consume her."
Light listened intently, absorbing the information. "So it's not just the elements themselves, but also how you interact with them."
"Exactly," Su Xuanhua agreed. "And it's also about our innate talents. Each of us has a unique connection to our element, something that's been with us since birth. It's what makes our magic more potent, more responsive. That's why our training is so personal, so tailored to who we are."
Their conversation drifted into a deeper discussion about magic and its complexities. Su Xuanhua shared her experiences with mastering the lightning element, the challenges she faced, and the breakthroughs she achieved. She talked about the importance of understanding the nature of her element, not just in terms of power, but also in how it reflected aspects of her own personality.
Light was fascinated. "So, your magic is not just a tool, but also a reflection of who you are?"
"That's right," Su Xuanhua confirmed. "Magic is deeply personal. It's tied to our emotions, our thoughts, our very essence. That's why control is so crucial. Without it, magic can become unpredictable, even dangerous."
As they spoke, the evening deepened into night, the stars beginning to twinkle in the sky above. The air grew cooler, but the warmth of their conversation kept the chill at bay. Just as they were settling into another topic, they heard footsteps approaching.
Su Hongxiu, her fiery energy almost palpable, joined them on the rooftop. Her presence added a different dynamic to the group, her enthusiasm and passion contrasting with Su Xuanhua's calm demeanor.
"What are you two discussing?" Su Hongxiu asked, a playful smile on her lips.
"Magic, of course," Su Xuanhua replied, sharing a knowing look with Light.
"Always magic," Su Hongxiu laughed, sitting down beside them. "It's the one topic that never gets old."
They continued their discussion, each sibling bringing their unique perspective to the conversation. They talked about the different ways their elements could be used, the challenges of mastering them, and the importance of discipline and practice. Su Hongxiu shared her own experiences, emphasizing the need for passion and intensity in her training, a stark contrast to Su Xuanhua's emphasis on balance and control.
The rooftop conversation lasted well into the night, a blend of laughter, serious discussion, and shared dreams. Eventually, they decided to head back inside, the cool night air reminding them of the lateness of the hour.
As they moved towards the staircase, Light felt a lingering pull towards the ancient oak tree. This tree had always held a special place in his heart, a silent witness to countless moments in his life. He decided to spend some time under its sprawling branches, seeking the calm and clarity it often provided.
The oak tree was a towering presence, its gnarled trunk and expansive canopy a testament to its age and history. It was said to possess unique magical properties, a legacy of the powerful white magic user who had planted it centuries ago. The tree absorbed warmth and positive energy, creating an aura of tranquility that could soothe and calm anyone who sat beneath it. This aura extended to the mansion and its grounds, subtly enhancing the well-being of its inhabitants and providing a protective barrier against negative influences.
The tree was also a symbol of the family's status in Bo City, a marker of their unique connection to the magical world. Its presence was both a blessing and a responsibility, a reminder of the power and history they were custodians of.
Light made his way to the base of the tree, feeling the familiar sense of peace wash over him. He looked up at the dense canopy, the leaves rustling softly in the night breeze. The moonlight filtered through the branches, casting dappled shadows on the ground.
He began to climb, his movements confident and sure. He had climbed this tree countless times, each ascent a journey into a world of his own making. The treehouse nestled in the canopy was a place of refuge and reflection, a sanctuary where he could escape the pressures of daily life and immerse himself in his thoughts.
Reaching the treehouse, Light settled into his usual spot, a small nook that overlooked the mansion and the city beyond. The view was breathtaking, the city lights twinkling like stars in the distance. He leaned back, letting the peaceful energy of the tree surround him.
As he sat there, he thought about the tree's magical properties, its ability to absorb and channel energy. This ability was linked to its age and the powerful magic that had infused its roots and branches over the centuries. It was said that the tree could sense the emotions and intentions of those who came near, offering comfort and clarity to those who sought its presence.
Light felt a deep connection to the tree, a sense of belonging that was hard to explain. He thought about the history of the tree, its role in their family's life, and the protection it offered. The tree's aura was not just a passive presence; it was active, alive, and aware. It had a psychic power that could influence the thoughts and emotions of those who spent time under its branches, offering a sense of peace and security.
This protective aura was one of the reasons why the family enjoyed a special status in Bo City. The tree was not just a symbol of their magical heritage; it was also a source of strength and stability, a reminder of the deep roots they had in the magical community.
Light stayed in the treehouse, lost in thought, until it was time for dinner. The tranquility of the tree had a way of calming his mind, helping him to focus and reflect on the things that mattered most. He thought about his sisters, their dedication to their training, and the unique challenges they faced. He thought about his own journey, the decisions he had to make, and the dreams he hoped to achieve.
As the night deepened, he made his way back down the tree, the cool night air refreshing against his skin. Dinner was a warm and lively affair, filled with laughter and conversation. The family gathered around the table, sharing stories and enjoying each other's company. It was a time of unity and togetherness, a reminder of the strong bonds that held them together.
After dinner, Light felt the familiar pull of the oak tree once more. He made his way back to the treehouse, the night sky clear and filled with stars. He climbed up, settling into his favorite spot, and let the peace of the night envelop him.