Aethernea : Soulbound [Book 1]

Episode 116 - Seed of Aegis

Previously:

Kiel's practical exam ends and the entire world around him turns into motes of light. Mageheart tells him that he will see his score two days from now. When he exits the room, he finds Elaru and Arion waiting for him. Kiel subtly extracts information from Arion about Zor Arite, finding out that he died a heroic death 18 years ago which had a great impact on the Arite family, especially Rine Arite who was close to Zor.

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Arites selectively bred to create the most perfect offspring possible.

It was a harsh practice that left no freedom for the Arite members to choose who to marry or have children with. Yet, it was undoubtedly very effective – a prime reason why Arites stood above everyone else to this very day. It also created a strange cohesion inside the Arite family, making them the most united noble family which never had internal power struggles.

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Episode 116 – Seed of Aegis

There was no discrimination based on ability because every Arite was extremely capable and thus valued by the family. There was no need for Arites to struggle for power to secure the future of their offspring, because, in the Arite family, personal ability decided everything.

They also imposed many strict magical contracts onto their members to ensure the utmost loyalty of their members as well as ensuring that the Arite blood stays within the Arite family.

"Arites lost two successors just like that? Tragic." Kiel's forehead creased with a troubled frown. And this time, he didn't need to feign distress. Hearing that Rine Arite had not been the same since Zor died disturbed Kiel, because it was highly likely that Rine was the soulmate of Zor. What if the severing of an Aetherneal bond wasn't harmless after all and Zor's death had a hard impact on Rine on more than just an emotional level?

"Horrible, right? They never had something like that happen before, ever. Mentioning that event is a sure way to kill the mood of any party with Arites present." As the three of them reached the exit of the Replica Dungeon, Arion looked left and right, and conspiratorially whispered.

Abruptly, Elaru spoke up, for the first time during their conversation: "Arion, you should hurry back down. Your exam will be starting soon."

Both Kiel and Arion looked back at Elaru startled. It was as if, today, Elaru and Kiel had completely switched roles. Kiel was the one happily conversing with Arion while Elaru was the one who wanted to shoo him away.

Even Arion suddenly felt like this situation was extremely bizarre. He didn't quite want to leave just yet, especially because he finally felt as if Kiel was warming up to him, but there was no denying that Elaru was right. His practical exam would be starting soon.

While Arion hesitated for a moment, Elaru's previously solemn face erupted in a wide grin, and she patted him on his back. "Good luck and Godspeed!"

"How did you know I am participating in a race?!" Arion gaped, clearly misunderstanding Elaru's "godspeed" statement.

Elaru was startled but quickly recovered. "A lucky guess."

"Huh?" Arion blinked confusedly. "Your guesses are too darn accurate!"

He waved at the two of them friendly. "Well, then, I'm off. See you guys later."

Both Kiel and Elaru plastered on a slight smile and waved him off.