Two days later than expected, Lady Falan returned to the estate.
Sitting at the table, she lifted a gilded teacup in one hand, blew on it gently, and sipped the rich black tea as she listened to the girl standing before her report on recent events.
This mysterious and powerful noblewoman had flowing golden hair and an air of grace and refinement. She seemed entirely out of place in a remote region like Scorched Stone City.
After hearing Sylutia's report, she nodded slightly in approval.
"You've taken excellent care of the flower fields. You really are the child I had my eye on."
"That means I can worry a lot less from now on."
"I can explain in detail the advanced knowledge, choices, and precautions you've been so eager to learn about."
She set down her teacup, beckoned Sylutia to her side, then gently pressed a hand to the back of hers and guided her into a seat.
"How much do you know about advancing so far?" she asked first.
"I've heard of four ways to advance, more or less." Sylutia recounted what Scholar Heide had taught her.
"Mm, Heide was right. Those are indeed the four most suitable paths available to you at present." She emphasized the word "present."
"Condensing the Aspect Power of the First Order doesn't have many requirements. As long as your ability is strong enough, or you receive nourishment and a blessing from an external source, you can advance your Fate Card."
"But once you reach the Second and Third Orders, things aren't so flexible, especially for certain classes. They require specific combinations of Ability Cards." She explained at a measured pace.
"Since you've already learned the Dew Prayer Technique, you can advance using it first. Later, I'll teach you the Branch Combing Technique. Then