Martha Blackwood had always loved her daughter.
She made sure Lauren grew up in warmth, in care, in a home where affection was not earned—but given freely.
But the world had demanded something else entirely.
Born to two powerful figures—herself, a high-ranking flame user once dubbed The Crimson Valkyrie, and her husband, Dominus, a man whose ice magic could freeze armies—Lauren had inherited more than strength. She had inherited expectations.
And expectation was a cruel master.
Martha still remembered the day Lauren was tested in front of the government council and the clan observers. The moment her small hand touched the affinity orb, the crystal erupted in a dazzling swirl of blue and red—a sign of dual affinity. Ice from Dominus. Fire from her.
And the rank?
Mystic.
A hush had fallen over the audience. Then applause. Then hunger. Martha had seen it in their eyes—not awe, not celebration—possession.
She'll be one of the few who can rival the Higher Clans, they whispered.
