The first light of dawn crept onto Lance's small cot, casting a gentle glow on his face. He blinked awake, the previous day’s memories still fresh in his mind, playing in his head like a vivid dream. He rubbed his eyes and sat up on his cot.

Quickly, he put on his boots and crept out of the dorm room, not wanting to wake the other youths sleeping there. As he stepped outside, he was greeted by Jory, who was waiting with an unusually serious expression.

“Morning, Lance,” Jory said. “You need to go to Lord Bracken’s house. He wants to see you right away.”

Lance’s heart skipped a beat. “Do you know why?”

Jory shook his head. “No, but it seemed important. Better not keep him waiting.”

Curious and slightly apprehensive, Lance made his way to the manor house where Lord Bracken, the community’s leader, resided. The manor, a large stone building covered in ivy, was an imposing sight.

Inside, Lance was led to a spacious study where Lord Bracken sat behind a massive oak desk. The lord was a tall, stern-looking man with graying hair and piercing blue eyes. He looked up as Lance entered and gestured for him to sit.

“Good morning, Lance,” Lord Bracken said, his voice deep and authoritative. “I’ve heard quite a bit about you recently.”

“Good morning, my lord,” Lance replied nervously, taking a seat.

Lord Bracken’s eyes bore into Lance with an intensity that made him feel as if the lord could see straight through him, discerning every thought and emotion. The piercing blue gaze was both intimidating and commanding, leaving no room for doubt or evasion.

Lord Bracken glanced at Father Elias, who was also present, before continuing. “Father Elias has informed me of the unusual abilities you displayed at the festival. We believe you possess a rare talent, one that needs proper training and education.”

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Lance’s heart raced. He had been trying to forget about the incident, hoping it was a one-time fluke. “I’m not sure I understand, my lord.”

“Let me be clear,” Lord Bracken said, leaning forward, his eyes never leaving Lance’s. “You have the potential to become a mage. However, this village cannot provide the training you need. The only way to properly learn about magic and harness your abilities is to attend a college for mages.”

“A college?” Lance echoed, his mind reeling.

“Yes, the Elderglen Institute of Arcane Studies,” Lord Bracken confirmed. “It’s the closest reputable institution for magical education. Applications have already been sent out on your behalf, and in a few days, testers from the Institute will arrive to assess your mana connection.”

Lance looked at Father Elias, who nodded in affirmation. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you earlier, Lance. But this is an opportunity you cannot pass up. I can’t teach you about magic myself, as my abilities are limited to channeling divinity for healing and other miracles. Your talents lie beyond what I can guide you through.”

Lance thought back to the times he had seen Father Elias channel the power of Aris to heal the sick and injured. It was a testament to the priest’s connection with the divine, but magic was clearly a different realm altogether.

“What if I’m not ready? What if I fail?” Lance asked, his voice filled with uncertainty.

Lord Bracken’s expression softened slightly, though his eyes remained as sharp as ever. “Every journey begins with a single step, Lance. You have the talent and the potential. The testers will provide you with the initial assessment, and the Institute will give you the knowledge and training you need to succeed. It won’t be easy, but it’s a path worth taking.”

Lance took a deep breath, feeling a mix of fear and excitement. “So, when will the testers arrive?”

“In a few days,” Lord Bracken replied. “You’ll have some time to prepare and reflect. We will provide you with the necessary supplies and support.”

Lance nodded slowly, trying to process everything. This was a huge step, one that would take him far from the only home he had ever known. But deep down, he knew this was the path he needed to follow.

“Thank you, my lord. Thank you, Father Elias,” Lance said, his voice filled with gratitude. “I won’t let you down.”

“I know you won’t, Lance,” Father Elias replied, his eyes shining with pride. “Your journey is just beginning. Embrace it with courage and an open heart.”