In the open-air classroom, the afternoon sun cast a soft glow around Master Parlin, illuminating her as she spoke. The gentle whispers of the leaves and the sun's caressing warmth added a calm backdrop to her lesson.
Ralina, attentive to each word, found thoughts and images surfacing with every syllable.
With her hand raised slightly, Ralina caught Master Parlin's eye. "Master Parlin?"
The older woman met Ralina's gaze, giving a gentle nod, signalling her to continue.
Ralina's eyes searched Master Parlin's for clarity. "Earlier, you mentioned spirits sharing memories. Does that mean if we establish a bond with them, we might glimpse into the past?"
Ralina's question hung in the air, earning a thoughtful pause from Master Parlin. "Indeed," she began, her voice steady and contemplative. "You've quickly grasped one of the many facets of Spiritual empowerment. Just remember, spirits possess a consciousness, much like any creature you encounter. Their shared memories are intricately linked."
Ralina's eyebrows knitted together. "Does that include spirits linked with Felren too?"
Meeting Ralina's gaze with a knowing look, Master Parlin nodded. "Certain connections, especially those of other raced, run deep."
A derisive snort sounded from the background. Turning her head, Ralina locked eyes with Marcella, who wore a look of disdain. But instead of engaging, Ralina simply shifted her focus back to Master Parlin, choosing to rise above the distraction.
As a Felren, Ralina constantly balanced her human side with her primal lioness instincts. This dance of duality heightened her connection to the world's rhythms and the elusive spirits that murmured in the periphery.
The sensation she'd felt when the book of the Known had mended her wounds, was akin to the pure, raw energy Master Parlin spoke of – untamed and powerful. It lingered in her consciousness, a tantalizing mystery, much like the fleeting memory of a chase or the thrill of a hunt. That feeling conflicted with her human side that begged for the stability and safety of civilisation.
Master Parlin's eyes reflected deep knowledge as she spoke of the many spirits linked to mortals. Ralina felt their presence, sensing their energy blend with hers. As magic had faded over time, these spirits turned into old stories told by campfires. However, the return of magic brought hope of rekindling these ancient bonds.
Ralina looked at the others, sensing their excitement.
Master Parlin paused, surveying the eager faces before her. The sun filtered through the leaves overhead, casting a soft glow on the outdoor classroom.
"Today," she began, her voice clear and resonant, "is simply an introduction. Your presence here was determined by your innate aptitude for communicating with spirits. It's a commendable start." She paused for emphasis, letting her words sink in.
Hope exchanged a hopeful glance with Karn.
Master Parlin continued, "However, in our next class, we'll move beyond mere aptitude. Each of you will participate in an exam. It's designed not just to gauge your connection with the spirits but to determine if you possess the right mindset for this discipline.
Marcella lifted an eyebrow. "What do you mean by the 'right mindset', Master Parlin?"
"It's customary to raise a hand before speaking, Marcella. As for your question, you'll discover the answer in due time."
Huffing, Marcella crossed her arms with a defiant smirk.
Master Parlin's announcement of the upcoming exam was not just a challenge but an invitation to embrace their destinies. To succeed meant continued mentorship and a path forward, while failure meant standing on the outside, forever watching.
From across the classroom, the Royal sector students wore unmistakable sneers of disdain.
Marcella, exuding an air of haughtiness, interrupted the contemplative silence once again. “Master Parlin. Certainly, in your wisdom, you'd prefer not to squander your teachings on those who might... struggle to rise to the occasion?” Her eyes flicked dangerously towards Karn and his group.
Following Marcella's lead, Baron, a hulking presence amongst the students, added with a smirk, “For the betterment of us all, shouldn't we focus resources on those who are inherently... superior?” The taunt in his voice was undisguised, a blatant challenge towards them.
Tension rose in the open-air classroom. Whispers filled the air, filled with shock at the Royal sector's surprising audacity.
The primal side of Ralina stirred, ready to leap forth. The blood beneath her skin simmered with Felren fury, and her fingers itched to transform into claws. Ellie and Hope, sensing the storm within her, exchanged wary looks, while Karn, embodying the steady patience, locked eyes with Marcella, issuing a silent yet clear challenge.
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Ellie's lips parted, ready to hurl a biting insult, but Karn swiftly placed a hand on her arm, leaning into whisper, "Wait till after class. She's trying to provoke you."
With a wry smirk, Ellie met his gaze and nodded, silently tucking away her sharp comeback for later.
Master Parlin remained an oasis of calm amidst the storm. “Every individual in this gathering,” she began, her voice resonating with authority, “whether they tread with human feet or not, has earned their place here. Magic doesn't bend to lineage or gold; it answers to the heart and will. My time is a gift, and I choose to bestow it upon those who show dedication. Should you harbor doubts, best use your energy for your own growth.”
The weight of Master Parlin's words settled over the students, quelling the rebellious murmurs. Marcella and Baron, unprepared for the rebuke, exchanged uncertain looks, momentarily taken aback. Their moment of brazenness had been met with the unwavering strength of a teacher who truly understood the essence of magic – and it didn't discriminate.
Master Parlin stood confidently, the dappled sunlight illuminating her face, making her eyes sparkle with intensity. "Now onto brighter news. Master Theodoric has entrusted me with discussing the Event Trials with you all," she began, her voice carrying a note of eagerness that immediately captivated her audience.
"These trials," she continued, scanning the attentive faces before her, "while being extracurricular, are not for the indecisive. They can be... treacherously dangerous."
A murmur of anticipation spread among the students. Ellie's eyes widened, and Karn shifted uneasily in his seat.
Master Parlin raised a hand to quell the rising whispers, and the classroom fell silent once more. "Within these games," she continued, her tone a mix of caution and thrill, "you'll find yourselves not just facing a challenge but facing one another. It's not merely a test—it's a battle of wits and skill, an all-out brawl where each trial is meticulously crafted to push you to your very limits."
Ralina leaned forward with her hand up. "Are you saying we'll be competing against each other, directly?"
Master Parlin nodded, a hint of a smile betraying her own enthusiasm. "Precisely. You will experience the raw power of magic, the depth of strategy, and the strength of your own spirit. So be wary and prepare yourselves."
As Master Parlin spoke of the Event Trials, anticipation grew. Whispering to Karn, her Felren side showed through, "I can imagine slashing at Marcella and her boot lickers with my claws." The mere thought brought a primal satisfaction.
Yet, Master Parlin, perhaps sensing Ralina's wild intentions, clarified, "These trials are not a place for physical brawls. Magic reigns supreme." Ralina's ears drooped slightly; her initial eagerness slightly dimmed. However, the master added, "Physical prowess, intertwined with a magical discipline, can prove advantageous." She cast a pointed look at Ralina. "A spiritual connection, for instance, which I can guide you. That’s if you show promise."
Ralina felt the embers of hope and determination rekindling within her. This could be her path to intertwining her Felren nature with the spirits.
Master Parlin scanned the class, making brief eye contact with several students. "These trials are more than just a test of your magical abilities. They're a testament to your dedication, resilience, and spirit."
Whispers of consensus swirled among the students as they processed the gravity of the Event Trials. Ralina leaned close to Karn, her voice tinged with excitement. "This could be our moment."
Karn met her gaze, uncertainty clouding his eyes. "I understand your excitement. But these trials sound like a distraction and we need to focus on our true purpose here."
She faltered, her earlier enthusiasm dimming. Seeing this, Karn offered a small smile. "However, I won't stand in your way if you decide to unleash your inner lioness on those idiots."
With those words her excitement reignited.
Hope chimed in, "No thanks. I've seen my share of battle and pain. I'd rather stay in the library."
Ellie nodded solemnly. Ralina, sensing their hesitations, paused, conflicted. The primal energy within her screamed for action, yet the concerns of her friends made her pause.
Master Parlin scanned the anxious faces before her and said, "I've noticed some concern among you. Rest assured, participation in the trials is voluntary. Moreover, they won't commence until each participant is fully prepared to tackle the challenge."
A student near the front raised a hand, hesitating for a moment before asking, "How do you determine when someone is ready?"
Master Parlin smiled gently. "We have our ways. It's all in the best interest of the students."
Master Parlin smiled warmly, easing the room's tension. "Master Theodoric has given me news to share. If you wish to display your magical prowess, the Event Trials sign-up starts after this class and ends by tomorrow morning. Choose wisely," she said, looking at each student, "these trials aren't for the uncertain. Act quickly and trust your instincts."
Master Parlin started gathering her belongings, her movements methodical and precise. "Don't forget," she said, her voice clear and resonant, "we have an exam during our next session. And to those brave souls entering the trials, I wish you the best of luck." She glanced up, meeting the eyes of several students. "I'll see you all next lesson."
As Master Parlin's voice faded and the open-air classroom began to disperse, the prospect of the upcoming Event Trials was on everyone's lips.
Ralina, filled with eagerness, quickly left the outdoor classroom. "I'll catch up with you all later!" she called over her shoulder to her friends. With determined steps, she made her way into the main building, eager to find the sign-up sheet and dive into the upcoming challenges.
But as she approached the sheet, Marcella had somehow beaten her to it. With Baron beside her, both radiated smug satisfactions, having already secured their spots.
Spotting Ralina, Marcella's smirk widened. "Best of luck," she taunted, her voice thick with sarcasm. Baron chuckled, amplifying the sting of her words.
Ralina's heart raced, but she forced her attention back to the signup sheet. Her eyes widened in disbelief. Clearly etched at the top were the names: Ralina, Karn, Ellie, and Hope. It wasn't a coincidence.
"Who's responsible for this?" she muttered, her protectiveness flaring, particularly for Hope, who had shown clear reservations.
In a desperate bid, Ralina tried to scratch out Hope's name, but the ink resisted, infused with an unmistakable magical event. She attempted to rip the sheet down, but it clung steadfastly in place, held by an unseen power.
Ralina's roar echoed through the corridor, a primal outburst fuelled by her lioness instincts. This wasn't just mischief; it was a malevolent act, trapping her friends in the trials against their will. Conversations halted, and the bustle of the hallway stilled. Students pivoted; their attention riveted on the enraged Felren. Though a handful of mocking gazes gleamed from the crowd, Ralina's steely focus was undeterred.
Someone had crossed a line, and Ralina would stop at nothing to set things right.