New Beginnings: Arvanya's Journey from Home to Aetheria Academy

Arvanya's POV:

Once ready, I took a deep breath and headed downstairs. The aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling eggs drifted through the air, filling me with a sense of warmth that eased the nervous flutter in my stomach.

As I entered the dining room, I was greeted by the sight of my family gathered around the table, sharing easy laughter over breakfast. Mom stood nearby, placing a plate in front of my usual spot. She smiled as she caught my eye, brushing a streak of flour from her cheek.

"Good morning, Arvi!" she greeted, her voice soft and full of affection. "I made blueberry pancakes, just for you. You need a good start for your first day."

"Thanks, Mom," I replied, sliding into my seat. The familiar comfort of my family's morning routine steadied me.

Luca, my youngest older brother, shot me a grin as I sat down. "Ready for your grand adventure at Aetheria, princess?" he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Just remember—no running to your big brothers if you end up causing a scene!"

"Oh, like you wouldn't cause ten times the trouble?" I shot back, rolling my eyes.

Thiago chuckled, reaching over to ruffle my hair. "Yeah, but we know you can handle yourself, Arvi. We'll try not to miss you too much."

I couldn't help but laugh, shaking my head at their antics. "Thanks, really. Such caring brothers," I said, feigning exasperation.

Adrian, my eldest brother, placed a hand on my shoulder, his gaze warm but serious. "Just be yourself, Arvi. And remember," he lowered his voice, "keep your powers hidden."

"I will," I replied, giving him a reassuring smile, but a hint of worry crept in. His serious tone made me wonder why he emphasized it so strongly. What was he really afraid of?

Dad's voice joined the conversation from behind us, rich with pride. He leaned against the doorframe, his gaze softening as he took in the scene. "My little princess off to conquer the world," he murmured, his voice holding a hint of nostalgia.

He walked over and placed a hand on my head. "You've always made us proud. Remember, we're here for you, no matter what," he said, casting a playful glance at my brothers. "And if any of these boys make things hard for you, just let me know."

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I chuckled. "I think I can handle them, Dad."

He ruffled my hair, his expression both proud and wistful. "That's my girl."

Yet, as he said that, I noticed a flicker of something in his eyes—a worry that I couldn’t quite place. Was there more to the warning about my powers than just the usual concerns about safety?

As we finished breakfast, the room filled with laughter and gentle teasing, my nervousness slowly giving way to excitement.

The Drive to Aetheria Academy:

We all piled into Adrian's car, a sleek Tesla Model S Plaid that Dad had gifted him. It was a gift from Dad, and Adrian treated it like his prized possession. I slid into the passenger seat, feeling the hum of the car as it sprang to life.

Adrian gave me a smirk as he adjusted the mirror. "You're in the front because it's your first day. Next time, backseat."

I rolled my eyes. "Gee, thanks for the privilege."

The morning sky was painted in hues of pink and gold, the world coming alive as we headed toward Aetheria. I watched the familiar sights blur past, feeling a rush of anticipation mixed with nervous excitement.

From the back seat, Luca leaned forward, a smirk on his face. "Just remember, if you find any air dragon friends, keep them out of trouble, okay? We don't need you joining the 'underdog club.'"

"Oh, please," I said, laughing. "Not everyone can have water dragons like us, Mr. Elite."

Adrian chuckled, steering the car onto the main road. "He's kidding, Arvi. Just remember to keep your powers in check. You'll find your place."

I nodded, meeting his gaze. "I will. I'll make you all proud."

At Aetheria Academy:

The academy loomed ahead, its towers rising against the morning sky, casting long shadows over the grounds as students streamed into the courtyard. Adrian parked, and as we stepped out, I couldn't help but marvel at the grandeur of it all.

My brothers hung back as I spotted my friends across the bustling courtyard. Nico, Dante, Kai, Sofia, and Lila waved at me, their smiles lighting up their faces.

Before I could reach them, my brothers gathered around for one last word.

"Goodbye, Arvi!" they said in unison, trying to keep their expressions light. I could see the protective instinct in their eyes as they watched me, a silent reminder to be careful.

"I'll be fine," I promised, giving each of them a grateful smile. "And I'll keep my powers hidden."

They nodded, satisfied, and with one last wave, I turned and headed toward my friends. My heart swelled as I saw my friends. They were laughing and chatting, excitement shining in their eyes.

Meeting My Friends:

"Hey, guys!" I called out as I approached them, my heart lifting as they gathered around. Their laughter was infectious, their excitement palpable.

"Can you believe we're finally here?" Sofia threw her arms around me in a quick hug, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "I've been waiting for this all summer!"

Kai folded his arms, grinning. "Just remember we have to actually study. This place may be beautiful, but it's still an academy."

Dante and Nico exchanged glances, chuckling. "Lighten up, Kai," Nico teased, nudging him. "We'll be fine. What's the worst that could happen?"

I shook my head at their antics, but their laughter was infectious. "Let's make the most of it," I said, looking up at the towering academy buildings. "This is our start, and we're in it together."

Walking through the bustling courtyard, excitement buzzed in the air around us. The thrill of a new beginning mixed with a tinge of nervousness, but with my friends by my side and my family's support behind me, I felt ready for whatever Aetheria Academy had in store.