"I learned to find clues for the future from history, Grandma."
The girl’s voice remains gentle, but the wisdom contained within it is now beyond comparison:
"Time is not as we once thought, a straight line flowing from past to future.
It’s more like a massive spiral, where past, present, and future exist on the same circle, just at different heights."
She reaches out her slender fingers, sketching some complex trajectory in the air:
"When we master the correct observational methods, we can explore upwards or downwards along this spiral, to see images of other time nodes."
Astraea nods, her eyes full of pride.
She realizes that the sapling she has carefully cultivated has now grown into a towering tree.
"It seems this journey has led you to find your own path."
The old woman’s tone carries a sense of relieved comfort:
"I only taught you the basics of astrology, but what you have mastered now is truly the Time Secret Technique."
The two slowly climb the spiral stone stairs to the highest level of the Observatory.
As night falls, the stars in the sky begin to appear.
But in Chloe’s perception, those stars are no longer distant points of light; each carries specific information.
"Grandma, I want to reorganize the knowledge I have learned."
Chloe gently caresses the ancient astrological instruments on the edge of the Observatory, feeling their resonance with her power:
"Moreover, I need to combine the historical techniques learned at the Observation Station with our Astrology Association’s traditional Prophetic Magic."
Astraea nods in agreement, a hint of anticipation flashes in her eyes:
"I’m curious about what kind of effect will be produced when two different systems of time perception merge."
But what she doesn’t say is the faint worry deep inside her heart.
The power Chloe now possesses might start attracting certain... entities’ attention.
Returning to her little study, Chloe feels a long-lost tranquility.
This small room is filled with astrological books that have accompanied her for years, each carrying memories of her educational journey.
Various precise observational instruments hang on the walls, emitting familiar magic waves like old friends.
The young girl sits on the familiar high-back reading chair, gently places the "Celestial Sphere" crystal on the table, and then slowly closes her eyes.
In the familiar leisurely atmosphere, she begins to review the gains of the past few months.
The historian’s rigorous thinking, the precise techniques of time perception, and the divination theory taught by Professor Uther...
Each gain is like a precious gem, requiring careful savoring and digesting.
Gradually, Chloe’s consciousness begins to relax, entering a state between meditation and light sleep.
In this state, she feels as if she is being blessed by some unimaginable great existence.
It’s a warm and safe feeling, like being gently stroked by a kindly elder.
This feeling is identical to the high-level attention she once sensed when peering into the Line of Destiny, but now it is clearer and more real.
......
In stark contrast to the tranquility of the Astrology Forest is the brutal trial underway deep in the Sea of Darkness.
In the abyss over three thousand meters deep under the sea, the magic concentration has reached a level that would cause ordinary people to faint instantly.
In such an extreme environment, even the simplest act of breathing becomes a test of willpower.
Uphemia floats in the dark seawater, surrounded by "training partners" specially arranged for her by Nari.
Dozens of abyssal magic fish launch attacks at her from all directions.
Each of these creatures possesses Morning Star level strength, their scales shining coldly in the darkness.
"Too slow!"
Nari’s voice comes from all directions, carrying clear dissatisfaction:
"Your bloodline control is still too stiff! Think of those puppets as extensions of your body, not just simple tools!"
Uphemia is covered in wounds, her long white hair completely soaked by seawater and sticking tightly to her scalp.
Traces of blood drift in the seawater.
But there’s no hint of retreat in her eyes.
Three meticulously modified blood demons fight around her, their movements becoming more agile and synchronized than a few days ago.
Behind them, the strongest Blood Bride provides long-range support, dark red blood arrows pouring down like torrential rain.
"Understood!"
Uphemia grits her teeth.
The movements of the blood demons gradually become smoother, exhibiting a tacit teamwork.
One blood demon attracts frontal fire, while the other two flank from the sides.
The Blood Bride accurately seals the enemy’s escape route.
"Good! That’s the feeling!"
For the first time, Nari’s voice carries a tone of approval:
"Bloodline Puppets are indeed extensions of your life energy. When you learn to command them with your mind rather than mere will, their true power will manifest!"
Initially, Nari held no favor for the woman recommended by their own child.
The bloodline mark from Aiden on her makes Nari instinctively repulsed.
It’s the scent of a traitor, a pitiful aura of being controlled and losing oneself.
However, after observing for several days, Nari begins to change her view.
This woman possesses astonishing resilience and learning ability.
Uphemia’s desire for power is pure.
She wants to grow stronger to gain true freedom, not to prove anything to anyone.