After being forced to reveal a glimpse of his secret project to Lia, Darren continues to carry an even greater personal burden. The Academy’s teachers each approach magic through their own philosophies, and Darren’s conviction to better himself but him right in front of them. While Arlen is a patient and composed teacher, she pushes Darren to find the subtle side of magic to perfect his healing craft. Her lessons revolve around understanding the body’s natural energies, how to mend rather than force, and how to find a balance despite the chaos of an injury. In fact, it was her insistence that spurred Darren to create his special project.
Imryll, however, brings a far more combative edge to her teachings. Specializing in magical defenses, such as shields, barriers, and countermeasures. She demands precision under pressure. Her razor-sharp wit and strict demeanor leave little room for error. Imryll pushes Darren’s will and focus to the brink in both. But he welcomes the challenge. Fueled by a deep desire to improve, each grueling lesson becomes more than a test of skill. It’s a step toward something greater than academic success.
Join me as Darren defends himself from Imryll’s assault. Will Darren’s focus be enough? Or will his teacher’s experience prove to be far too much to overcome?
Beads of sweat emerged from Darren’s brow as another bolt of power slammed into his shield. Despite deflecting the attack, his defensive barrier wavered, revealing the cracks in the spell. With a grunt, he resettled his feet and muttered something under his breath as he shoved a hand toward Imryll.
She shook her head and batted away the incoming spell, like a giant batting a fly. It slammed harmlessly into the far wall. Imryll’s tongue clicked as she lifted a hand while her fingers danced through the air. “You’ll need to do better, Darren.”
“I’m open to suggestions,” Darren said as he dropped to a knee.
“Improve your technique,” Imryll said, cocking her head to the side, “and your concentration.”
As more sweat tumbled down to his eyes, he brushed his brow with his sleeve. “When you consider that you’re a teacher, are you surprised you have more experience than me?”
“I’ve limited my options to what you can do.” Imryll twirled her finger and thrust it at Darren, drawing out a whimper from the kneeling figure. “Granted, without proper technique or concentration, a child could subdue you.”
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