Chapter 2 –
Despite being powerless, Guriya helped her aging parents every day. In Asteria, when people grew old, their magic faded, and their children often had to support them. Guriya's parents were too old to work, so she took on their responsibilities, cleaning and serving for them in place of her mother.
One day, after a particularly tiring morning, she ran to the seaside to clear her thoughts. Her father's harsh words from earlier that week still echoed in her mind:
"You're such a disappointment. I wish I never had you."
Tears streamed down her cheeks. She stumbled over the sand, wishing she could disappear.
"Crying again, Guriya?" a familiar voice called.
She turned sharply and froze. It was Ronald, her childhood best friend.
"I… I don't want to talk," she whispered, wiping her tears.
Ronald shook his head. "You've always been misunderstood. But you're not powerless."
Guriya blinked. "What do you mean?"
"You have the strongest power in the kingdom," he said softly. "The magic you hold… it's unique. No one else has it."
Her heart raced. "I… I do?"
"Yes," he confirmed, showing her her phone. "Your mother tried to reach you—99+ missed calls. The Queen knows about your powers and wants you and your family to come live in her mansion."
Guriya's eyes widened. "Seriously? The Queen… wants me?"
Ronald smiled. "Yes. And of course, you're coming with me."
Guriya laughed, a sound of relief. "I suppose that makes sense. You're my best friend, after all."
Together, they made their way to the Queen's mansion, where life would never be the same again.