When the month started, I planned to write three Wattpad stories. Unfortunately, other obligations, both forced and voluntary, stole time from my availability, and I wasn’t going to reach that third story. I’m a little disappointed, but there are more pressing storylines that need my attention. That left me with a choice between the remaining two. While it wasn’t an easy decision, I ultimately chose to continue Darren Gilbert’s Journeys.
The Academy offers structure, protection, and a clear path for their students. It defines not only what is taught, but where that teaching is meant to remain. For most, that boundary is accepted without question. It provides certainty, and it carries comfort for its students. Still, there are moments when the limits stand out more than the lessons.
Darren Gilbert has never been careless with his work. Every decision is weighed, and every step is taken with purpose. When a task demands more than what can be done within the Academy’s grounds, he begins to consider alternatives. Preparation becomes just as important as execution. And sometimes, preparation must begin where no one is watching.
The world beyond those walls does not announce its dangers. It rarely needs to. Subtle shifts, quiet patterns, and small inconsistencies often say enough on their own. What goes unnoticed can matter just as much as what is seen. And once something lingers in your thoughts, it is not always easy to ignore.
Excerpt of Measured Preparation
Darren lowered the note bearing Randall’s request. He squeezed it into a ball before shoving it into a pocket as he added more components to his bag. When he had finished filling his satchel, he covered the bin and wiped his face. Darren released a breath and turned, finding Maxwell leaning against the doorframe of his room.
“What are you doing here?”
“Came on Lia’s behalf. She’s hoping to grab some time with you for a study session.” He pushed off the wall and sauntered over to Darren’s bag and flipped over the flap. He chewed on his lip as he sifted through the trinkets. “Should I tell her you won’t be able to accompany her today?”
Darren ran his hand through his hair and winced. “Yeah, I’m tied up for the day.”
“You know, this is interesting.”
Darren closed his satchel and guided Maxwell back to the door. “What’s that?”
“Your packed bag.” Maxwell slammed his palm onto the doorframe, bringing both to a halt. He turned, gesturing toward the satchel with a slight tilt of his head. “You have tools wrapped up in cloth, etched plates stacked up, and vials of random tinctures. Are you planning on making a trip outside of the Academy?”
“I am. I was under the impression that nobody objected to us leaving the grounds.”
One of Maxwell’s eyebrows rose as he lifted a finger. “Not if you’re going out to enjoy yourself. Though you appear to be preparing to establish a magical shop. You realize that kind of activity borders on flaunting your ability to the world. Which violates the rules Leodor and his staff are constantly reminding us about. Wouldn’t you agree?”
Darren pressed his hand against Maxwell’s back as he shook his head. “I’m not foolish enough to flaunt my abilities where the ruling class would find me. Besides, the school doesn’t care about jaunts into the forest.”
“They don’t,” Maxwell said as he spun, his palm slamming against Darren’s ribs. He leaned against the doorframe and folded his arms across his chest. “However, the few who chose to dabble in the outside world during their studies aren’t packing enough supplies to suggest they’ll be gone for an extended period, let alone trying to create an assembly line.”
“You’re making wild assumptions.” Darren rubbed his side and backed up a step. “None of the instructors, not even Volodar, would act on speculation that absurd.”
“You aren’t wrong.” Maxwell dragged his fingers through his beard as he peered past Darren. “Yet, while that’s true… it’s a well-informed one.”
Darren offered a false smile as he gestured for Maxwell to leave. “Yes, I’m heading to the forest for some research. I won’t provide the hunters with anything that’ll guide them to me.”
“They don’t need attention.” Maxwell backed up, inclining his head. “Sometimes faint patterns are enough for them to discover the overconfident.”
“I’ve never been painted with that trait.” Darren held Maxwell’s gaze for a moment before he released his captured breath. “I promise not to give them anything to chase.”
“That is supposed to be our central ideal. You’d do well to remember it. Even the smallest misstep can linger longer than it should,” Maxwell said as he walked away.
To continue reading the story, click here to head over to Wattpad.