The next morning, sunlight filtered through the light curtains. Miria woke slowly, her eyelids heavy, still floating in the fog of sleep. A sweet smell of warm bread and fruit tickled her. She opened her eyes a crack to discover Asher standing at the foot of the bed, holding a tray. There were golden toasts, beautifully sliced fruit, and a steaming cup of fragrant tea.
"Did you rest well?" he asked with that dazzling smile that had the power to unsettle her.
"Uh... yes," Miria stammered, her cheeks flushed. "Thank you..."
Asher placed the tray on her lap, then added, gazing at her tenderly, "You're going to need the energy. Training starts today, and I'm not one forgiving." He winked at her before turning on his heel and leaving the room. As soon as the door closed, Miria froze.
Miria: He's so nice... and that smile!
Conscience: No, no, no! Put that naughty thought down right now!
Miria: But I'm just thinking!
Conscience: Exactly! You're fantasizing about him just bringing you food like a prince. Control yourself, girl!
Miria: It's not my fault he's hot...
Conscience: And I'm going bald if you keep this up!
The mental argument continued for a while until Miria, slightly annoyed with herself, fell into a sulky silence. She ate in silence, finished her meal, then got up to take a hot bath, trying to calm her thoughts... and her conscience.
Dressed comfortably, she left the bedroom and explored the house. It was vast, peaceful, and bathed in light. After checking two rooms, where she came across a reading room and a small indoor greenhouse, she pushed open a pair of dark wooden double doors.
She entered a large circular room, called the Atrium of Essence. The walls were lined with ancient symbols, and the floor was covered with magical circles drawn in chalk.
Asher stood in the center, arms crossed. He turned when he heard her.
"Perfect," he said with a satisfied smile. "I hope you're ready. I'm very demanding, and this won't be a walk in the park. Welcome to the Atrium of Essence, your new training ground."
Miria took a deep breath, determined to understand her powers... and perhaps also to understand this man who was as unsettling as he was intriguing.