Emily's POV

The classroom's warm illumination gently embraced the Aludell members, and a hushed anticipation lingered in the air as Thandor prepared to delve into the day's lesson. Emily sat in her designated seat, feeling a mix of curiosity and trepidation about the subject—magic.

"Today, I'll be sharing some insights about witches and their magic. It's a topic that's not widely understood due to the tragic fate that often befalls those who possess this extraordinary ability. It might be a weird thing to say, but there isn't much known about our kind." Thandor began, his tone carrying a weight of solemnity.

Liam, Nicole, and Jaxon, who were more accustomed to Thandor's teachings, listened attentively. Karl didn't show much expression since he entered the classroom, thouugh Emily felt he was also listening.

"Witches tend to awaken their magic in moments of great emotional intensity, typically during a traumatic event." Thandor explained, carefully choosing his words. "It's as if the surge of emotions acts as a catalyst, unlocking the dormant potential within them."

I see....I suppose I can believe that, after all, it was when Jack died in front of my eyes that I awakened these powers of mine...

The thought of Jack made Emily's heart hurt, but she continued listening.

"However, it's important to note that the specifics of what triggers this awakening remain elusive. Each witch's experience is unique, tied to their own emotions and circumstances." Thandor continued.

"Can witches have different kinds of magic, teacher?" Jaxon asked, breaking the silence that followed Thandor's explanation.

"That's a question with no definitive answer. The truth is, very little about witches is known or recorded. Historically, witches have been met with immediate condemnation and execution for practicing magic. As a result, our understanding of their abilities is clouded by fear and ignorance." Thandor clarified, his expression reflecting the weight of the uncharted territory they were delving into.

"It's uncertain whether witches can possess varied forms of magic or if the magic they awaken is the only type of magic they'd ever get. As members of Aludell, as witches who were allowed to live, I hope that's a question we will be able to answer one day." Thandor added, emphasizing the importance of Aludell as a group.

Emily realized then how little she knew about the members of Aludell. She didn't know what type of magic any of them used, nor how did they awaken their power to begin with.

Though maybe they don't want to talk about it, it's not like I told them what happened to me or what my power is.

Emily thought to herself, not realizing Thandor already told the group she can control water.

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Before long, Thandor concluded his brief lesson. As everyone prepared to leave, Nicole approached Thandor with a request.

"Excuse me, teacher, can I ask a favor?" she inquired.

"Oh? What is it, Nicole?" Thandor responded.

"Would it be okay if I took Emily to my favorite dessert place, Amore? She hasn't left home at all this past month. That can't be healthy." Nicole explained, her concern evident. Emily, in turn, was surprised, as Nicole hadn't discussed this plan with her beforehand.

"I don't mind on my end, though would Emily want that?" Thandor said, he and Nicole turning to look at Emily. The other boys also shifted their attention towards her, making her blush a little under the sudden scrutiny.

"Um, I mean, I-I don't mind! If it's okay, of course." She answered, feeling a bit hesitant to agree.

It's true, I haven't went outside since I got here. I've never spent so much time inside before. Going out for some fresh air isn't a bad idea.

Nicole smiled upon hearing Emily's agreement.

"I'm glad!" she exclaimed with a broad smile, then continued, "The rest of you should come too." she added, directing her gaze toward the boys.

"Oh, won't that be lovely? In that case, I'll come along too." Thandor added, sporting a smile as well.

"I was planning on training after this lesson." Jaxon said, not sounding too pleased about the idea of going out. "Sorry, Nicole." He then apologized with soft smile, Emily has never seen Jaxon with that expression before.

"Andddd if Jaxon is staying, then I have to stay and train as well." Liam chimed in, which Emily found odd.

If Jaxon has to train, Liam has to stay with him? This has to have something to do with their magic power. A part of me really is curious, yet another part of me doesn't want to know what that's about.

"Aw, well, what about you Karl?" Nicole, sounding disappointed, turned her attention to the young boy.

"I'm not sure...." He responded.

"Well, if Liam and Jaxon are going to spend their time in the training room, you'd be all by yourself here, so I say come with us!" Nicole said, sounding a little forceful.

And just like that, it was decided the four of them will be going to Amore. Emily's outfit consisted of a knee-length, A-line skirt in a soft, pastel shade that complemented her fair complexion. The skirt featured subtle floral patterns, adding a touch of femininity to her look.

Her choice of a fitted, short-sleeved blouse took on a classic allure, crafted from a lightweight fabric with a hint of texture. The blouse featured a high neckline adorned with intricate lace detailing

And lastly, to ward off the gentle chill in the air, Emily draped herself in a loose-knit shawl which looked delicately woven,., its warm hues harmonizing with the overall ensemble.

Emily has never worn anything like this before, there was no such pretty clothes back in her village. She couldn't believe it was her she was looking at in the mirror in Nicole's room.

Oh, I must have kept them waiting! I should hurry down stairs!

The thought spurred Emily into action. She dashed down the stairs, eager to join the others. However, as she descended, she encountered Liam and Jaxon. A pang of discomfort seized her heart.

"....That outfit looks good on you." Liam said, with an awkard smile. He wasn't sure how to approach Emily.

"...T-Thank you. I've never worn anything like this before." Emily thanked him for the compliment, trying to sound normal.

"You should go, you know, all of them are waiting for you outside." Jaxon interjected, redirecting the conversation as he turned toward Liam. "Let's go, Liam." With that, he began walking towards the training room.

The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

Liam gave Emily one last awkward smile before he turned to follow Jaxon, Emily couldn't smile back.

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The moment Emily took a step outside, she almost screamed. She was expecting to see Karl, Nicole, and Thandor, but there was one more person with them, a knight.

W-Who's that?! Why is a knight here?

"Emily! You look so good in that outfit." Nicole smiled as she looked at Emily from up to down. She was also holding Karl's arm.

Nicole then noticed Emily was looking at the knight behind her with a scared look. Nicole turned to look at Thandor.

"Teacher, did you not tell her about this?" She asked, sounding worried.

"I haven't, no. It didn't seem there was a right time." Thandor spoke as he walked towards Emily, the knight glaring daggers at his back.

"Emily, there is something you need to know. As witches, we aren't allowed to wonder off freely however we want. There are some knights tasked with keeping an eye out for us when we leave our house. This here is one of them. His name is Gareth Stonehelm, general Durthon's nephew." Thandor explained as he introduced the knight.

Durthon's nephew?!

Gareth Stonehelm had the same deep ebony hair his uncle, with the same set of serious eyes, though Gareth was much younger, being only 18 years of age. He had a sword at side, which made Emily all the more nervous.

"Hmph! How has she been part of your group for a month and you still haven't explained this to her?!" Gareth spoke out, his irritation palpable.

"It's none of your business how I handle things related to Aludell, Gareth." Thandor responded, not looking too happy about the knight's tone.

Nicole, sensing Emily's discomfort, attempted to lighten the mood. "Well, now that you know, let's head to Amore. It's a charming little place, and you'll love the desserts! This will be the first time Karl goes there too."

"R-Right, lets go." Emily said, still looking and sounding nervous.

So a knight is going to keep watch over us all the time while we're outside? That makes me feel uneasy, even more so knowing he's that man's nephew...

As the four Aludell members walked, Gareth walked behind them. He was far enough that any passerby won't think he's with the Aludell group, nor far enough that he can't interfere if someone from Aluudell tried to pull something they shouldn't, though it was far enough where he couldn't hear what they were saying.

"Gareth Stonehelm, you see Emily, he only ever follows me around when I go outside. I'm sure his lovely uncle told him to keep an eye on me at all times." Thandor spoke in a quiet voice as he walked to the left of Emily.

"I see. So, if you're not with us, other knights would keep an eye on us?" Emily inquired.

"Yes, precisely. I know it's not easy, but try to ignore their presence, it'll make your life easier." Thandor suggested.

I'll just try to never look behind me, cause I know he's there...

Glancing to her right, Emily found Karl and Nicole.

"So....Karl, it's your first time going to Amore as well?" Emily prompted, eager to shift the topic. Karl glanced up and responded with minimal emotion.

"Yes, I've never been there." he replied, his voice devoid of much inflection.

"Oh? How come? I'm surprised you haven't taken him before, Nicole." Emily redirected her question to the older girl.

"Well, Karl hasn't been with Aludell much longer than you have, so the opportunity never presented itself, sadly." Nicole explained, a tinge of regret in her voice.

"Oh?" Emily murmured, absorbing this new piece of information.

"He joined Aludell a few days short of a month before you did." Thandor added, providing context.

This realization let her not only realize how little she knew about the group again, but it also made her feel bad for Karl.

Being a witch, did Karl go through something similar me? Was a boy his age also thrown in a scary cell like I did?

She looked at the younger boy again, who didn't seem to be paying much attention to this conversation. She took his left hand, now one hand is held by Nicole, and the other by Emily.

"O-Oh?" Karl uttered in surprise.

"Can I hold your hand too, Karl?" Emily asked, offering a warm smile. Though she knew a simple gesture might not mean much, she hoped it conveyed her care for him.

"Sure..." He responded.

"Awww, look at us! If one of us was a boy, Emily, we would had looked like two parents with their child!" Nicole quipped, injecting humor into the moment.

"Haha..." Emily let out an awkward laugh.

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Amore, nestled in a proximity close to Silverbreeze Street, exuded an old-world charm. The quaint establishment bore the marks of time with its weathered wooden facade, adorned with flowering vines that seemed to embrace the building in a gentle, natural hug. A faded sign, once vibrant, swayed lightly in the breeze, signaling the presence of the cozy haven.

A scattering of small, round tables with worn but sturdy wooden chairs graced the exterior of the place. The inviting outdoor seating area was adorned with potted plants, their leaves reaching out in a vibrant display of greenery. The fragrance of blooming flowers lingered in the air, mingling with the tantalizing scent of baked goods wafting from the bakery.

Inside, the bakery unfolded into a warm and welcoming space. The rustic charm continued indoors, with exposed wooden beams crisscrossing the ceiling. Shelves adorned with jars of preserves, antique teacups, and handcrafted trinkets lined the walls. A large counter, showcasing an array of delectable pastries and confections, stood as the centerpiece.

Large windows allowed ample natural light to filter into the room, creating a cozy atmosphere. The mismatched but well-loved furniture, from plush armchairs to sturdy wooden tables, invited patrons to linger and enjoy their treats. The soft hum of conversation, the clinking of cutlery, and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee contributed to the delightful ambiance.

Emily has never seen anything like this before.

The capital sure has many things my small village doesn't have. It's a different world over here. To think I almost didn't see any of this too.

Emily and Nicole ended up both picking a carrot cake slice to eat. They went and sat outside as Thandor and Karl still made their choices.

Emily couldn't resist taking an eager bite of her cake, the anticipation too great to wait for the boys.

The moment the delightful flavors danced on her taste buds, Emily couldn't contain her excitement. "Oh my god! This is so good!" she exclaimed, a radiant smile illuminating her face.

Nicole, delighted that Emily embraced her dessert recommendation, grinned in response. "See? I told you that you should give this one a try."

"...Thank you for bringing me here, Nicole. If not for you, I wouldn't have learned such place or delicious food exist in the world." Gratitude swelled within Emily, which made Nicole lost for words for a second.

"C-Come on now, you make it sound as if I did something greater than it actually is. I only brought you to my favorite dessert place." Nicole said, sounding embarrassed, trying to downplay her actions. She took a bite of her cake.

"Not true, you've been so nice to me ever since I got here. I feel that I need to thank you for all of that." Emily persisted as she thought of all the nice things Nicole had done to her since she joined Aludell.

The early days in Aludell would had been so much harder if you weren't here with me, Nicole.

"Emily....it's really no big deal, plus as the only two girls in Arudell, it only makes sense I do all of this. Us girls gotta stick together after all." Nicole said, still sounding embarrassed.

"Oh, right, you were the only girl before I got here....was that hard?" Emily asked, feeling curious.

"Well....it wasn't all bad, but it did make me feel lonely a bit. I was hoping a girl would join Aludell, but sometimes I felt guilty for wishing such a thing as I'd be wishing on her to suffer the fate of being a witch." Nicole admitted her feelings, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness

"Nicole...I..." Emily wanted to say something to make the conversation happy again, but she wasn't sure what.

"So, Emily, if you ever need to talk about anything, always feel free to approach me... even if it's about a certain boy you loved that you lost." Nicole said, leaving Emily in stunned silence.

"H-Huh?!" Emily gasped, caught off guard by Nicole.

How did she know?

"Nicole, how do you know about that?" Emily asked, a sense of vulnerability in her voice.

"I saw the way you looked at Liam this past month, along with what you said to him the day you joined Aludell. I put two and two together... and I see I was sadly right on the mark." Nicole explained, her tone tinged with regret for steering the conversation toward such sensitive territory.

"I-I see....."

I suppose it would be possible for someone to figure that out, but still I'm shocked.

"Don't worry, though. I doubt any of the boys or even our own teacher figured out what it was, and I won't be telling anyone." Nicole reassured Emily, offering a comforting smile.

"T-Thank you. I suppose it would make sense for you to see through me, Nicole." Emily replied, the lingering unease gradually subsiding.

"I do feel bad knowing so much about you while not telling you anything about me, though... I'll tell you this, I've also lost the boy I love, just like you, so I know what you're going through." Nicole admitted, which surprised Emily.

"Nicole...." Emily spoke, her expression reflecting a mix of sadness and surprise. She wasn't expecting Nicole to open up to her like this. Emily did want to learn more about the Aludell members, but this was just breaking her heart.

So Nicole too lost someone just like I lost Jack, how sad...

"W-Was the boy you love killed too? How did he die, if you don't mind me asking." Emily inquired, the question hanging hesitantly in the air. Regret colored her face as soon as she uttered them, sensing the gravity of Nicole's response. Nicole wore a sad smile, as if she were revisiting memories—perhaps beautiful ones with the boy in question.

"Yes, yes he was killed... though my case is different than yours." Nicole paused, the sadness lingering in her smile. Then, she continued with a heavy heart.

"In my case, it was I, it was I who killed the boy I love."