Chereads / The Five Great Mages: Hope / Chapter 3 - Three Sisters - Part 1

Chapter 3 - Three Sisters - Part 1

*Clink!*

*Clink!*

The crisp chime of two silver coins broke the ambient hum of the marketplace as they landed upon a meager mound of assorted currency nested on a worn, grime-coated shawl. The donor did not bother to acknowledge the presence of the beggar or his greasy rags as he continued on his way.

(Thank you for your generosity.)

Zepher's gaze trailed the silhouette of the receding benefactor with muted appreciation. It was almost noon and spoils before him were quite high already. While the number of coins might be modest, it surpassed the usual midday collection. Along with the coins, a kind-hearted clerk had offered a barely bruised apple, and an unsuspecting one had lost a cookie to his nimble fingers. Both had swiftly met their end in his stomach. A fruitful morning, indeed.

As he yawned and stretched, weary bones protesting softly, Zepher's sharp eyes swept over the sea of bustling souls flitting between the market stalls. Most ignored him, but from time to time, a passing worker would raise his hand in greeting, or a lone merchant would exchange a few words about the weather. Zepher, after all, was a renowned figure among the city's pantheon of paupers.

A loud argument erupted to his left. Turning towards the noise with mild interest, he saw the commotion at the square's entrance, right beside the imposing sculpture of the emperor. A donkey brayed loudly, its cries echoing through the market and drawing attention from all around. Two men gestured heatedly near the animal, but Zepher could not discern the cause of their dispute. Just as he was about to return to his previous activity—the observation of the marketplace—his eye caught a pair of young girls emerging from behind the donkey.

One girl pointed animatedly at the statue and laughed, while the other trailed behind her, subdued. The disparity in their clothing was clear, leading him to surmise that one was the master and the other, her servant. He recognized the shorter girl as a member of a wealthy family that controlled several mines throughout the Empire. However, it was the taller girl who truly captured his interest. Her silver hair cascaded down her back, swaying with her movements. And as she glanced around, he caught a brief look at her pale face and striking reddish eyes.

(Oh, what potential she has! She'd be a marvelous addition, perfect for my performance.) His thoughts briefly wandered, but he quickly reeled himself back. Now was not the moment for daydreams.

Gathering his earnings, he made his way towards the statue. The braying animal at last grew silent, granting his ears some reprieve. Navigating the crowd with ease, he weaved between people like a fish through water, quickly approaching his intended targets.

 

Ari gaped upward at the emperor's portrayal. Muscles bulged everywhere, and his beard reached down to his chest while fine mustaches extended outwards. It looked absurd; she was certain no one actually looked like that. Ria rambled something about it 'being cool', but it only made Ari chuckle when she saw all the exposed thews.

Ria was a bundle of energy. Having met just the previous day, it felt as if Ari had known her for years. They had shared stories about their lives and families deep into the night. For the first time, Ari opened up about her deepest worries and fears, a memory that now warmed her cheeks with slight embarrassment. However, she had a sneaking suspicion that Ria was more absorbed in her own tales and would not recall much of what Ari had shared. Regardless, the conversation had lightened Ari's heart, and for that, she was grateful.

Morning had brought Ari a keen urge to explore the Academy, but a sudden announcement that they would go into the city thwarted her plans. Ria seemed unable to take 'no' as an answer and due to her persistence, or Ari's own lack of assertiveness, they ended up right here, at the marketplace.

It differed from the Docks, where desperate vendors peddled their questionable goods from every nook and cranny. Here, stalls were neatly arranged within the square, displaying fresh, appealing wares. Between them, colorful fabrics billowed and snapped in the brisk wind, their rustling harmonizing with the ceaseless bartering that infused the air.

A soft, unnerving voice rang from behind. "Good day, young ladies." Ari spun around to find a bald, emaciated man looming over her. Material scraps dangling from his tattered rags fluttered with the rhythm of the early summer gale. His thin, wrinkle-free skin stretched taut over sharp bones, hinting at the contours of his skull beneath. His skeletal appearance, combined with the youthful smoothness of his skin, made it impossible to guess his age.

A twinge of unease prickled at her senses—something was wrong with this man. As she instinctively tried to take a step back, she collided with a passer-by and the force shoved her back the other way.

"My apologies. It's quite the crowd today." The bald man seized her arms and helped her regain balance, bringing her alarmingly close to his face. A grin stretched across his lips, revealing an unnaturally pristine set of teeth. His eyes, wide and intense, appraised her as though she were a priceless artifact. Panic simmered within her. She wanted to flee. But at that moment Ria finally registered the scene and her familiar sharp tone rang out.

"You! I know you!"

The man released Ari, pivoting to face Ria. "Ah, the young mistress recognizes me? Perhaps you might indulge a humble man with a drink? I know of a place—a jewel among taverns—that someone of your stature would certainly value." His eyes flickered and Ari trembled. She did not want to go anywhere with that man.

"A tavern?" Ria tilted her head, a sly smile forming on her face. "And why, pray tell, would that interest me? But tell you what,"—she smirked, holding his gaze—"do that dancing thing and I get you a drink, or even two."

The man's brow furrowed. "Why?" he asked.

"I've glimpsed it before, though I was always kept at a distance by my guards. What do you say? Do it and drinks are on me, however many you desire."

Ari noted how his eyes darted between her and Ria more than once. Was it truly just a drink he sought? As she readied herself to pull Ria away, the man finally conceded.

"Very well. A dance it is then. Let's add a touch of merriment to this bustling day."

Almost instantly, he began a dance that Ari found utterly perplexing. His hands flitted from side to side, elbows bent and straightened repeatedly, all the while he shifted weight from one leg to the other. Confused, Ari glanced at Ria, but her friend was already dancing alongside the man, mirroring his steps.

Bystanders parted for them, their hypnotic dance drawing eyes from every corner. Some hurried to leave, while a few merchants threw threatening gestures toward the ragged beggar. Ari struggled to make sense of the unfolding spectacle.

But then, subtly, the atmosphere seeped into her, and she felt the rhythm—gentle at first, like a lapping wave—and then overwhelming. Before she realized it, she was moving, swaying, the world around her blurring into a colorful motion. The marketplace transformed into a riot of dance. As if caught in the same enchantment, some people circled the statue, hands linked, while others lost themselves to individual rhythms at the square's heart.

Ari found herself dancing with a partner, their hand in hers. Though the individual's face was a hazy blur, she did not mind. Overwhelmed with euphoria, her surroundings became a series of vivid snapshots—the market, the sky, the walls, the people. Every image was rich in detail yet fleeting, making it impossible to focus. Emotions surged within her, erasing the past and immersing her in a timeless present.

A transition happened: her partner vanished. Alone, Ari leaped, letting her dress twirl with her. Before she could settle, hands gripped her shoulders from behind. Instinctively, she did the same to the person in front of her. Her palms touched the stranger's back, and an uncanny sense of unity formed. Now, she had a lengthy corpus with countless legs. They moved. A serpentine chain of people snaked through the stalls and dancers, swaying rhythmically from side to side.

She had lost track of time. What might have been mere moments felt like an eternity, awash in a luminous, ethereal joy. She was but an empty shell, floating on an endless sea of shallow happiness.

Then, a piercing cold invaded her consciousness. For a brief moment, it snapped her back to reality, only to release its hold, leaving her mind adrift once more. But the insidious cold persisted, creeping into her very marrow, disrupting her serenity. These frozen tendrils grew more insistent, like a storm gathering force. A mounting dread bubbled within, shattering her inner peace. She wanted to scream, to tear the nothingness surrounding her, to return to her previous state, to the bliss. But the effect grew stronger. Her whole ephemeral being froze, part by part. She struggled, tried to expunge it, but it was a hopeless effort. The cold won.

Blinking against the sunlight, Ari stood in the square's heart. She let her gaze wander, trying to anchor herself back to reality. Spotting Ria beside her, a semblance of a smile touched her lips. As memories trickled in and the haze began to clear, she observed the crowd around her. They moved hesitantly, looking as if they feared their own legs might betray them at any moment.

Emerging from her stupor, Ari felt the disorientating blur of waking mid-dream. Seeking stability, she clutched Ria's arm. Ria flinched, her gaze distant, drifting past Ari. It was only after a few heartbeats that she blinked into clarity, truly seeing her friend. A commanding voice coming from the side interrupted their reunion.

"Zepher!"

The crowd rippled, parting to reveal a tall woman, golden curls cascading down her back. The light blue of her flowing dress seemed to chase her as she advanced with determined strides.

"Have we not discussed this sort of entertainment already?" Without missing a beat, she closed the gap between herself and the tattered man. "Using Mind Power without consent is forbidden no matter how harmless the effect is. Which part of that you do not understand?"

"Zepher is blameless," he responded, his posture sagged, eyes downcast, a finger tentatively gesturing towards Ria. "This young lady demanded it; how could I refuse a noble's request?"

The woman's gaze, cold and piercing, settled on the girls. The shivers that Ari had only just shaken off returned, cascading down her spine in an icy rush. Her efforts to return the stare were thwarted by the chilling intensity of the woman's pulsating blue eyes—twin sapphires ablaze with an internal tempest. They resembled glowing crystals with a blizzard of white sparks sealed within. Every stolen glance sent tremors of cold racing over Ari, overwhelming her senses and forcing her eyes away.

In the meantime, Ria took a few shy steps to hide behind Ari's back. Given her shorter stature, she could disappear from the woman's sight just by standing in the right spot.

"Identify yourself, girls."

The command in the woman's tone made Ari's throat tighten, but she managed to respond, her voice a nervous tremor. "Ar-ri, Ariella Lor-r-rage."

With eyes narrowed to slits, the woman seemed to dissect Ari with her gaze, her focus lingering on Ari's chest as if attempting to peer right through her.

"Ria, do you take me for a fool? Step forward at once!"

Protestation rose in Ria's voice, a blend of fear and defiance. "I didn't know he's not allowed to do that! He wanted us to buy him drinks! I didn't know!" She clung to Ari's dress, desperate for comfort, unwilling to leave her sanctuary in Ari's shadow.

"Drinks?" The woman's gaze snapped back to Zepher, who hesitated, weighing his words. But before he could form a response, she dismissed him with an exasperated sigh, turning her attention back to Ari. "So, you're that Cassem's girl, huh?"

A small nod was all Ari managed, finally daring to meet the woman's eyes. The once radiant blue glow had dimmed, the icy chill gone, replaced by a gentle smile. The shift in the woman's demeanor eased the tension knotting Ari's shoulders, a breath of relief filling her lungs.

The woman focused on the ragged man once more. "So in the end, this whole situation is your fault, Zepher. Extorting young girls? A grave offense indeed."

Indignation flashed across Zepher's face. "Extorting!? I merely sought humble support!"

"No," she countered, her voice firm. "You preyed on their conscience. But I have an excellent idea. You shall be the one to purchase their drinks. That purse of yours seems to be pretty fat today. I'm sure you can afford that."

Without thinking, Zepher's hand darted to the spot where he kept his coins. Even though there were no outward signs of any wealth hidden beneath his rags, his reaction made it clear the woman was right.

"That's a magnificent idea," he replied. "Only you, esteemed lady, could be so forgiving. Your magnanimity knows no bounds. I will abide by your decision and shall escort these young women to the finest tavern in the city." He executed a low bow, attempting to divert attention from his earlier revealing slip.

The woman arched a brow. "As if they were to let you in, but take them somewhere decent." She then addressed Ari and Ria. "Both of you tread the path of Great Mages now. It's essential you learn to interact with all sorts of people, and this presents the perfect opportunity. He is harmless. And you, Ria—you're already stronger than he is. Have some fun at his expense."

She noted Ria's continued attempt to shield herself behind Ari and let out a resigned sigh. In a fluid motion, she closed the gap, grasping arms of both girls before they could pull away.

Coldness erupted from the spot where the woman touched Ari. It surged, permeating Ari's being, causing her to shudder as though she were doused in frigid waters.

"Good, now go and enjoy." The woman gave their heads a gentle pat, leaning in to whisper. "With his Power, he shouldn't be a beggar. He chooses to be one. Stay alert. Have your drink and head back straight to the Academy. No lingering or idle wanderings."

"And you, Zepher,"—the woman pointed at the ragged man—"you are paying for everything. If I hear anything else, you and I will have a most unpleasant conversation."

After one final menacing glance in his direction, she melted into the crowd.

Ari remained rooted to the spot, the chilling sensation gradually receding. She tried to trace the woman's departure, but the crowd's fleeting curiosity waned, and soon the bustling rhythm of the square resumed.

The beggar, despite the woman's warning, beamed, his grin stretching wide. "Shall we, young mistresses? We have our instructions," he said, surveying the scene to plot their course through the sea of passerby.

The notion of spending even a single moment with the man repulsed Ari. She contemplated slipping away, but Ria firmly gripped her arm, evidently keen on following him. Ari exhaled, suffering in silence. It was like that the entire day, but she could not utter 'no' to her new friend. She said nothing and let Ria lead her forward.

 

 *

 

From the depths of a huge, transparent glass mug, a myriad of tiny bubbles surged upwards. They streamed incessantly in a frenzied ballet, twisting and twirling, before they burst free at the surface. Along with the crimson liquid's delicate swiveling, they created an illusion that the drink was living its own life.

Ari eyed the mug warily. Although she had not tasted alcohol before, she had seen a plethora of various brews during her visits to Uncle Hamil. He was not truly family—much like Aunt Kormelia was to her mother, he was a friend to her father's. She had frequented his tavern often, yet never encountered a liquor quite like this.

Lifting the mug carefully, she took a little hesitant sip. The cold liquid and popping bubbles flooded her mouth, continuing their effervescence as she swallowed. The sensation was strange. Not unpleasant, just…unique. Intrigued by the taste, she braved a more confident gulp, only to find her eyes shining with a teary gleam as the gas threatened to escape through her nostrils.

Wanting to hide her reaction, she set the mug down and turned her head away to look at the tavern's interior. The tavern itself was also different from what she knew. Instead of wobbly chairs and a dirty, sticky floor, there was sturdy furniture and not a single speck of dust. The place beamed with cleanliness, rivaling the Academy's standards.

A cursory glance at the other tables revealed a thin scattering of patrons, all of them engrossed in eating and drinking. The sparse crowd was to be expected given the early afternoon hour. All the patrons looked like merchants, and most of them exuded a foreign vibe. She was familiar with their kind; they often visited docks to conduct business. It was better to not cross paths with them, as their status eclipsed that of the district's impoverished inhabitants. Ari stiffened the moment she noticed them—the ingrained wariness ran deeply in her veins.

"… and once I become the Great Mage of Death, I'll rid the world of all the undead!" Although Ari had tuned out Ria's chatter as she examined the interior, the gravity of Ria's proclamation snapped her back to the present, her pulse quickening in alarm.

Death Power. A taboo. Those unfortunate enough to manifest even a whisper of such talent were, without fail, neutered of their magic. Many plunged into depths of apathy right after the procedure.

This was the second time Ari had heard Ria make such a statement. Yesterday, she had questioned if she had heard correctly, but now there was no doubt. It boggled Ari's mind that her newfound friend would blurt out something like that in public, especially to a complete stranger. Well, the day earlier they did not know each other either, so at least there was some consistency in her behavior.

A nervous swallow gripped Ari's throat, her palm involuntarily twitching. She had no desire to be neutered of her Power. The ragged man, Zepher, met her gaze as he sipped his own crimson brew, seemingly oblivious to Ria's outrageous claim. Despite his apparent ignorance, Ari felt compelled to clarify.

"S-She's joking. In fact, her talent lies in Life Power!" she exclaimed, her voice tattering.

Ria whipped her head around to face Ari.

"When did you turn into that old bastard!?" Ria's voice escalated, her palms slamming the table. "I WILL become one, and no one shall stand in my way!" Her face flushed with passion, hands clenched into fists.

Conversations around the room halted as heads turned their way. Ari's heart sank; she had intended to defuse the situation, but inadvertently magnified it, drawing every eye in their direction.

Luckily, noticing the rapt attention they had garnered, Ria clamped her mouth shut, opting to sulk on the side instead. Sensing the drama had passed, the onlookers soon delved back into their own matters.

"Isn't it a lamentable state of affairs?" The ragged man's musing caught Ari off guard. Throughout Ria's outburst, he had been observing Ari rather than heeding Ria's fervent declarations. She was unsure what he was alluding to.

The man continued. "For over four centuries, the invasions of the undead have plagued the world. Yet, instead of understanding the Power that animates them, they've shunned it. How can they hope to triumph when they're willfully blind? Perhaps they don't wish to."

With a distant look, he cast his eyes upward, lost in thought. The transition gave Ari a moment of respite to gather herself. The forbidden Power of Death did not seem to unsettle him; in fact, he appeared willing to entertain a discussion about it. Ria, emboldened by his words, leaned forward. "So, you believe it holds potential, then?"

He chuckled softly. "Potential? Who am I to say? I'm just a ragged fellow with a handful of parlor tricks. But shunning its study? I do think it's a losing game. Our adversaries continuously refine their craft. How can we combat what we don't understand?"

A contemplative silence ensued. He absentmindedly played with a ring on his middle finger, turning it back and forth. After a lingering pause, he spoke again. "The Power, in its essence, is neither inherently benevolent nor malevolent. It's merely a tool, and it's the hand that wields it which defines its nature. We shape it with our will and intentions, and we bear the consequences of its use. To outlaw a specific aspect because of havoc it once wrought feels… shortsighted. Yet, the emperor's decree is absolute—his word is law. Tempting fate by defying it is ill-advised for those fond of their innate gifts."

The weight of his words silenced even the spirited Ria. A somber stillness settled among them as they contemplated the fading wisdom.

 

Zepher's gaze was irresistibly drawn to the girl with shimmering silver hair seated across the table. She was the very embodiment of the ideal vision he had harbored for his dream performance. Perhaps a tad too young, but that was a minor inconvenience—he possessed the patience to wait for her to mature.

At first, he had hoped she was but a simple servant. In such a sprawling metropolis, people vanished daily, seldom causing a stir. Her status as a Great Mage adept was also not an issue. True, it would be a bit more troublesome as her disappearance would be noticed, and a search ordered, but the overall level of magical proficiency in this world was notably lacking.

In recent centuries, the entire continent had not progressed; rather, it had experienced a significant regression. The scale of the setback was baffling, and he struggled to comprehend this anomaly. Wartime ought to spur advancement, not stagnation. Was the tremendous blow they suffered four hundreds years ago too severe? The continent's developed regions had been obliterated, but who would have predicted the once-thriving civilization would remain mere shadows of their former glory, not regaining their standing even after so long a time?

Regardless, the inhabitants of this world, weakened as they were, posed no tangible threat to him. However, Zepher's calculus shifted upon realizing the shorter girl referred to the silver-haired beauty as a friend—a complication he had no courage to take on.

His focus shifted from Ari, who seemed determined to avoid his gaze, to Ria, whose energetic pigtails swayed as she guzzled down her drink. The semblance was uncanny. He had encountered her twin just two years prior. They were almost mirror images, save for the hair: Ria's was a deep chestnut, while her sister's was as black as raven's feathers.

He shuddered at the recollection of that day.

 

That day, approaching noon, he emerged from his cozy abode. The sky was pristine, devoid of any mar to its azure canvas. Stretching and yawning, he rubbed away the remnants of slumber from his eyes—he had indulged in a longer sleep than usual. However, his lethargy melted away as his eyes scanned the garden, detecting subtle discrepancies. Those little cues sounded an alarm in his mind. Someone had moved his deck chair. Someone had put a Vinneri flower on his outdoor table—its white petals shone like a polished mirror under the sun's brilliance. Someone had stolen one of the rare golden apples from his apple tree. And most jarring of all, someone was lying in his hammock.

His first thought was that some brazen servant had forgotten their place, but the idea made little sense. Be it a servant or intruder, his protective wards around the house should have detected any foreign presence. Extending his senses, he probed the spell's feedback. There was nothing—just the hum of insects and the sporadic flight of a bird. Yet, contradicting his findings, the hammock appeared occupied, taut with a visible bulge, gently swaying in the breeze.

Cautiously, he circled the scene, maintaining distance, eyes darting between the hammock and his surroundings. Engrossed in keen observation and recurrent verification of his wards' feedback, he overlooked the brittle twig in his path. The sharp crack as it snapped beneath his foot echoed through the still air, resonating like an ominous war drum's beat. All momentum vanished; he froze, paralyzed by the abrupt disturbance.

The hammock stirred, and a girl's head popped from within, her eyes locking onto him. In a swift motion, she leaped out, her pigtails bouncing in unison as she landed gracefully on her feet.

(How old could she be? Eleven? Twelve at most,) he mused. Her presence here, deep within his dominion, puzzled him. Several villages lay beyond, yes, but the vast, dense woods should have made it nearly impossible for a lone girl to traverse. Even more bewildering was her attire: a lavish, knee-length gown of the richest black, offset by delicate frills. Short sleeves draped elegantly over her arms, and a sash of an even darker shade cinched her waist, emphasizing the rich fabric. This was no peasant's garb. What brought her here?

"Hello there," she greeted him with a sly grin and a casual wave. Her audacity was disconcerting; there was something unsettling in her demeanor. It was as though she owned the place and he was merely a visitor, not the other way around.

In response, he unleashed a probing pulse of energy to dissect the girl's presence. Its strength was enough for it to be considered rude—bordering on intrusive even—but he had to remind himself that it was his home and he was superior to anything on this planet.

The mental scan yielded a comprehensive spatial portrayal of his surroundings, yet where the girl stood, instead of intricate details, he saw a glaring black hole—no data, no impressions, just an impenetrable chasm of nothingness.

"Is something wrong?" she asked, closing the gap between them with measured steps.

As she advanced, his usually calm and collected senses screamed 'danger'. Over the eons, he had cultivated an immense might and had not felt the need to cower before anyone for a long, long time. Yet, with every footfall the girl made, a deep-seated dread gripped him, causing his very core to tremble.

His instinct urged him to flee, to forsake everything he had achieved so far, and leave this world behind. But reason pushed back. The girl's ability to find his secluded refuge suggested mastery over teleportation. And if she could bridge spaces, she might also possess means to obstruct spatial manipulations of others, making it impossible to open portals, or even worse: force them to collapse in the middle of the transit. It seemed wiser to bide his time.

The girl invited herself to his wooden cabin, wandering around and peppering him with a myriad of questions about his life in this remote area. "Why such isolation? How do you sustain yourself? Do the woods not get eerie at night? Do you concoct your own medicines? Or perhaps these are for culinary delights?" Her barrage of inquiries seemed endless. To each, he offered vague, noncommittal answers, all the while gauging her intent.

"Charming abode, quaint and cozy. Nothing like my family's sprawling monstrosity," she said, ensconcing shamelessly on his bed. "But what are you doing here, on this planet? In this universe, even?" Tilting her head, she studied him. "You're not native to either, are you not?"

He faltered, momentarily speechless.

"I beg your pardon, miss?" he stammered, swallowing hard under the weight of her scrutiny. "I'm afraid I don't quite fathom—"

"Save your pretense," she cut him off. Her aura, like molten gold, seeped into the room from the darkest void of her being. Reality appeared to warp in her wake, as if space, nature, and the very essence of the world were bending, seeking unity with her presence. She seemed to be intrinsically woven into the fabric of existence—a phenomenon he had never seen before. To his probing senses, the impenetrable hole of nothingness that enshrouded her was fusing with the universe itself.

(This level of control. How? Could it be…)

"Apologies, my lady." He fell to his knees, head bowed in deference. "While I am indeed a traveler, I've never had the honor of crossing paths with a goddess. Please forgive my inattentive reception."

"I am no god," she responded, her smile cold and distant, a flicker of displeasure crossing her face as if the title offended her.

"My apologies, I misspoke." A nervous bead of sweat trickled down his brow as he quickly diverted. "You inquired about my presence here. In truth, I sought refuge on this planet as a retreat, a sabbatical, if you will. My research had grown stagnant, and I hoped the wonders of this realm might reignite my inspiration." He dared a cautious glance at her, his voice laced with hope. "Perhaps I could receive some guidance from a higher being?"

The girl chuckled, rising gracefully to her feet. "Not my area of expertise, but I admire your craftiness." She took a deliberate step towards him, her eyes never leaving his. "You've spun a web of half-truths, painting a picture of a weary scholar seeking solace in unfamiliar land. But," she paused, her gaze sharpening, "I know everything—I'm seeing through the facade. Did you really believe you could hide that this land is the true focus of your research?"

From his kneeling position, he recoiled, falling backward, and scrambled away without daring to stand. "I meant no deception," he pleaded. "What had begun as a minor side project grew over the years. I am at your mercy. Whatever you ask of me, I shall abide," he said, his voice trembling.

She tilted her head again. "Good, good," she affirmed. "But worry not. I need nothing from you. Like you, I'm merely sightseeing in this world, trapped here by circumstances, trying to pass the time amidst my boredom. Your projects are of no interest to me and I won't interfere, but I may drop by in the future to see how you're faring."

In an instant, she transformed into a wisp of dark smoke, dissipating before him. He remained trembling on the floor, rattled to his core, questioning his own abilities as his detection wards revealed no trace of the girl's existence throughout their interaction. Her parting words echoed in his ears: "When you decide to leave this world, take the stranger with you."

(What stranger?) persisted as the sole thought in his mind until he finally regained his composure.

It was only much later that he discovered the girl's identity: a resident of the Empire's capital, the daughter of a prominent mining magnate. Despite his efforts to uncover more, details were scant. All he could glean was that she was one of three gifted sisters, estranged from society because of some past incident, and involved in clandestine dealings with the emperor himself.

 

The hum of the past faded, and Zepher returned to the present, his gaze falling on Ria. Her aura pulsed just as any other Great Mage's would—nothing outside the norm. Her energy was calming, bearing no trace of the foreboding menace that emanated from her sister.

With a heavy heart, he decided that pursuing the silver-haired girl was not worth it after all. The risk was too high, especially if it meant provoking Ria's sister. On the bright side, he now had clarity about what he was looking for. He only needed to find a suitable replacement, and if memory served him right, Bandawi were said to reside in the Docks. He had largely avoided that district so far—poor people held little appeal—but now it beckoned to him with promise. If he could locate a fitting person, this situation would count as a win, would it not?

"Barman! Another round for my lovely ladies! Bring that specialty of yours!" Zepher's voice boomed, directed at the plump man standing behind the tavern's bar.

 

The barman cast a skeptical glance their way. These young women at the table had already downed plenty. While he harbored reservations about the ragged man's intentions, Zepher was a regular, often accompanied by people of high status despite his appearances. Therefore, his request was not entirely out of line, yet the barman hesitated.

"Hurry now! Those two fine ladies may become your future patrons. Don't you want more recognition among Great Mages?" Zepher coaxed, noting the delay.

Sighing, the barman conceded. "Very well. I'm on it." He would prefer to steer clear of trouble, but sometimes there was no safe choice to make.

Zepher rose to his feet, offering a curt bow. "Ladies, our conversation has been delightful, but duty beckons. Alas, those of my humble station cannot afford much of an idle fun. I bid you farewell and I hope we meet again soon."

Two pairs of eyes remained fixed on him; relief emanated from Ari, while Ria could not hide her disappointment. "You're leaving so soon? There's still so much I want to learn about your abilities, about all the things I glimpsed from afar."

"My apologies. Another time, perhaps?" He offered another courteous bow. "Until then, savor your beverages." He made his exit, deliberately overlooking Ria's crestfallen expression.

"Hey! What about the payment?" The barman's shout echoed, halting Zepher in his tracks.

"Put that on my tab."

"Put that on your tab?"

"What?" Zepher asked in an annoyed voice. "Haven't I always settled my dues? I have needs for my coin tonight. Surely, you can wait? A day or two won't hurt."

The barman said nothing in response, lifting two glass mugs with freshly prepared beverages. The girls observed Zepher's departure from the tavern, jolting slightly as the aromatic drinks landed before them.

"Young ladies, I trust you will enjoy this blend," the barman said, pride clear in his voice. "While the recipe is a closely guarded secret, I believe Great Mages with discerning palates like yours might recognize some ingredients. Your esteemed presence is always welcome. Please visit often."

Ari, at a loss for words, simply nodded her appreciation. Meanwhile, Ria had already grabbed her mug, eager to taste the drink right away.

After a sip, Ria's eyes brightened. "Next, I'll take you to the Blue District," she said. "You'll love it."

 

 *

 

With a groan of relief, Ari stretched, her spine popping as she worked the stiffness from her muscles. The tavern's coziness had consumed more of the day than she realized; the sun had long since reached its zenith and was in eager pursuit of the horizon.

(Eh, we've squandered the daylight. Meeting that man was unfortunate. What should we do now?) She turned to Ria, her head spinning just enough to throw her off balance. The sensation was mild, certainly not what she expected.

"Ria, isn't alcohol supposed to have a stronger effect? I've seen grown men struggle to stand after just a single bottle of certain brews. But after all we drank, I hardly feel any different."

Ria pondered for a moment. "Hm, my father let me taste wine a few times and it was enough to leave my head reeling. You're right; it's not how it should be."

"Do you think that barman watered it down?"

"No,"—Ria shook her head, a sudden heat in her voice—"I think it was Mrs. Tercel's doing. It's just like her to offer a taste of joy, only to snatch it away. She's a monster!"

Ari recalled Mrs. Tercel's icy touch and shuddered.

"So you know her? I was about to ask about that. Who is she?"

Ria hesitated, taking a moment to gather her thoughts. "She was my examiner."

"So you met her two days ago?"

"What? No. Why two days ago?" Confusion flickered in Ria's eyes.

"The assessment day was two days ago," Ari explained.

"Ah! No. She's like, um, my private examiner. I knew I would go to the Academy for a few years already, and Mrs. Tercel was doing periodic check-ups on me. I was meeting her from time to time."

Ari raised an eyebrow. "And you're afraid of her?"

"Afraid?! Of course not!" Ria replied, perhaps a touch too defensively. "Anyway, let's go. To the Blue District!"

Ari smiled, remembering how her resolute friend was hiding behind her back earlier in the day. But her mood soon plummeted as she realized Ria was leading her towards the part of the city where the wealthiest people lived.

"I don't think I want to go there…" she said with caution.

"Why? It's amazing. Sure, it can't compare to the Academy, but there's a vast lake with many kinds of colorful fishes that jump high in the air." Mimicking the fish, Ria jumped too, and then made a playful splash sound as she landed. "You really must see it!" Laughing, she skipped ahead, pulling Ari along.

Ari felt a twinge of guilt, observing Ria's infectious enthusiasm. She had no desire to dampen her friend's spirits, but this was one boundary she was compelled to set. The middle-class areas they wandered through were unsettling enough with their prying eyes and whispering judgments. How could she possibly venture into a nobility's district?

"I… It's like I do not belong here. I'm poor, and everyone sees that. They all stare at me. Look at my dress. It's the best one I have, and it looks like a rag compared to what others are wearing. I can't go any further. Let's go back, go somewhere else." Ari stopped, waiting for a reaction.

Ria tilted her head, pondering for a moment, her gaze thoughtful. "Hm, yeah, it may bring attention when we go hand in hand like that. Servants usually follow a few steps behind. But if clothes are what worries you, then let's go shopping!"

And like all the times before, Ria latched onto her hand, tugging her forward with typical fervor.

"Hey, wait, I don't have any money. Were you deaf when I said I'm poor?" Ari protested, yearning to reclaim some semblance of control over the situation.

Ria laughed. "Don't you know? The Academy provides its students with an allowance. They'll start paying after the semester starts, but most merchants are more than willing to extend credit to adepts. We're good to go."

With that irresistible grin on her face, Ria forced her way once more. Ari sighed, realizing the futility of arguing with her. She conceded to the fact she could not win with her friend.

 

The store they entered was small, devoid of windows. Garments hung on the walls, while the central area remained empty, save for a wooden desk on the opposing side. Ari's eyes widened, flitting across dresses, blouses, and trousers, each appearing more enchanting than the last under the pale, eerie glow of a lime-tainted lightstone. The luminance sculpted the fabrics, highlighting their curves and sharpening their edges.

Dark recesses lurking in the room's corners, and the shifting shadows trailing behind the Ari and Ria, lent an air of mystery. Each piece of attire seemed imbued with a life of its own, its hues morphing and dancing as they moved deeper into the store.

From a side door adjacent to the desk, a woman emerged. "Good evening, young ladies. Welcome to Elan Boutique. How may I be of service today?" she intoned, bowing respectfully.

"We are here to see Master Toulon," Ria answered without hesitation.

A note of regret entered the woman's eyes. "I apologize, but the Master is preoccupied at the moment. Might I arrange a later appointment for you?"

Ria's head tilted, a quirk Ari had noted to surface whenever the unexpected occurred. Then Ria's tone turned icy.

"No, I said I want to see Master Toulon. Fetch him. Now."

The store attendant paled, hearing the commanding attitude radiating from Ria. She hesitated only for an instant before springing into action. "Of course. Please allow me a moment to summon him," she said, hurrying out of the room.

Ari's hands folded, knuckles whitening as she gripped herself tightly, a futile effort to maintain composure amidst the palpable tension. Even though she had known Ria for merely a day, such verbal aggression was unexpected and her heart raced, fueled by anxiety.

"Can you believe the nerve?" Ria fumed. "Arranging a later meeting? Who does she think we are?"

Ari subtly licked her dry lips; Ria's ranting was not soothing her at all.

Soon, a stout, middle-aged man burst forth from the door, arms stretched wide in an exaggerated welcome. "Miss Sarelli! I am so thrilled to have you in my humble store! Tell me, is your dress serving you well? Should there be any issues, I shall address them at once." His gaze flitted between the two girls before settling decisively on Ria. "And my sincerest apologies for my assistant's conduct. Her tenure is fresh and her experience is lacking. I shall ensure such inconveniences do not repeat." Behind him, the woman bowed in apology.

"Master Toulon, always a pleasure," Ria's voice took on a smoother tone. "My friend here"—she gracefully sidestepped, extending a hand towards Ari—"requires clothing. We share the room at the Academy." She emphasized the last sentence.

"Oh, that's marvelous! Miss Sarelli, your endorsement of my products means the world to me!" Master Toulon's eyes alighted with a business-savvy twinkle. "Young lady"—he addressed Ari with full attentiveness, as if he had not ignored her all that time before—"allow me a moment to look at you."

Commanding her into a reference pose with her arms extended laterally, he instructed her to execute a slow pirouette. "Yes… yes, we shall definitely find fitting attire. I just need a minute to think."

"We want something on par with the quality of my dress," Ria barged in before the clerk could muster a suggestion.

Master Toulon's expression tightened. "Ah, that presents a conundrum. The dresses I crafted for you and your sisters were the absolute pinnacle of my work—the best products I have ever made. I'm currently in the process of crafting a shirt which might be of similar standard, but it's tailored for a man. Moreover, the price for such a creation far exceeds an adept's stipend." He conveyed the last with a gentle, regretful shake of his head.

Unfazed, Ria pressed on. "I'll cover the cost. Show us your second-best offering."

Ari's hand clasped Ria's shoulder, a quiet plea interwoven in her touch. "No"—she swallowed audibly as Ria's serious eyes found hers—"I need nothing fancy. I'll buy what I can afford. Something to let me blend will suffice. They are just clothes."

"Just clothes?" Ria's head tilted again, a contemplative pause hanging between them before her gaze shifted back to the merchant. "You see? She doesn't even know. Ignore her. What's the second best piece of cloth you can offer?"

Ari almost gasped aloud at that development. She could not disagree with anything—Ria was not listening at all, doing whatever she wanted, bulldozing through every objection, every plea. Yet, curiosity flickered within Ari when the Master Toulon spoke next.

"In that case, I may have something of interest. It is not a dress, but an entire uniform. Allow me a moment to retrieve it."

The man departed, reappearing shortly with his arms cradling a set of meticulously folded attire. He unveiled a buttoned jacket first, followed by sleek trousers and supple, towering leather boots. Culminating the ensemble was a short cape skirt. All the garments were of a smoke white color.

The assistant took the clothes and gestured for Ari to follow. Still ensnared in the web of hesitance, Ari felt a gentle yet firm push from Ria, accompanied by a definitive "Go!" propelling her into the next room. She was led into a rectangular alcove, secluded by hanging fabric.

"Please undress. Your clothing may rest on the table," the woman instructed, pointing to a sturdy, elongated bench, her other hand deftly adjusting the drapery.

Ari looked at the assistant for a moment, but it seemed she had no plans to leave. Seizing the chance, Ari asked about one thing that had been bothering her since she saw the uniform. "Um, I have a question. I can't help but wonder…aren't those clothes way too large for me?" she voiced her doubts, recalling the presentation a few minutes earlier.

"I see," the woman responded with a gentle smile. "You are unfamiliar with Ao woven textiles. Allow me to guide you. I will explain the details."

As Ari undressed, she mulled over what she knew about Ao-infused items. The most common ones were lightstones. They were forged by enchanters capable of extracting Ao filaments and turning them into circuits that were later embedded into various objects. However, the problem was, she had never heard about a minimization Power.

She donned the jacket and trousers, both oversized, clearly tailored for someone double her height.

"Draw up your sleeves and hike the pant legs so they don't trail," the assistant instructed.

Ari complied, clumsily bunching the excess material around her hands and ankles while trying to keep the trousers from falling down—they were too wide to stay at her waist.

"Now, channel the Power into the uniform," the assistant continued, unfazed by Ari's struggles.

"The Power?" Confusion knotted Ari's voice, mirroring the quizzical tilt of her head. "Into the uniform?"

"Yes, use your Power," the assistant confirmed, maintaining an even tone.

(That's not really helpful,) Ari thought, unsure of how to proceed. "Um, I… My examination was only two days ago, and I haven't really used the Power yet."

A deep, empathetic bow from the assistant followed. "Oh, I beg your forgiveness for presuming, young lady. Please, do not worry. It is very simple. Given that you have joined the esteemed Academy, I am sure you can do it. Reflect upon your examination—the sensation of the Power pulsing within you. Try to recapture that sensation and guide its flow into the uniform."

The assistant's calm reassurance mollified Ari's spiraling tension. She reached inward, searching for her source. It was still there, shimmering gently in response to her probe.

(But how does one channel it?) she mused. During the examination, she had a clear goal in mind. It was different now—she was tasked with streaming the Power in its raw form.

The source fluctuated beneath her mental touch, overwhelming her with a profound sense of unity. She became the force. Her will dictated the energy, which surged, eager to permeate every recess of her being.

Abruptly, all of it halted, rebounding as though it struck an unseen barrier before dissipating into nothingness. "I can't. It won't come," Ari said, her eyes opening, reflecting defeat and confusion.

"Don't rush it. Should the volume be too thin, converge your focus upon a single point of contact. Your navel would be the optimal choice—it once served as a conduit for your mother's Power. Your body is naturally attuned to channel energy through there."

(Thin volume? If that tumultuous flood is considered 'thin', I wonder what high volume looks like,) Ari mused, but held her tongue. Instead, she dove back into the second attempt.

This time, she reduced her presence within the force, cautiously nudging a lesser quantity of energy forward. Repulsion came again, mirroring the previous outcome, yet a delay lingered before the Power receded. Persistently, she repeated the process. Each subsequent attempt stirred the source—it now boiled, spewing more and more energy, spreading tendrils of searing heat throughout her entire body.

After one more try, the Power reached her skin. Just a step more, and it would cascade outwards. Focusing on the spot around her navel where the uniform caressed her flesh, she permitted the energy to spill over. In the subsequent instant, her consciousness expanded its reach. A labyrinth of threads materialized in her mind, becoming increasingly intricate as she continued to pour in more of her Power.

"Well done," the assistant affirmed, her fingers lightly grazing the jacket, monitoring Ari's progress. "Can you see the embedding map linking all the nodes? You must locate the node resembling a mountain range. After you find it, you will notice you can affect it. Play with it a little; learn what it does."

Ari's awareness spanned the entirety of the web, taking in each of its complex nodes. These nodes, elaborate structures of intertwined threads, guided energy with meticulous precision along the path of least resistance. Her focus honed onto the particular node described by the assistant, coaxing a trace of power into an alternate filament. In response, dormant pathways within the node blazed to life, while others dimmed, their vibrancy drying up. The pattern of the flow had changed.

"Excellent job," the assistant voiced her approval. "See there? The left cuff is expanding. Try something different. Shape it, mold it; your aim is to tailor this uniform to be nothing less than an extension of you. It should fit you perfectly."

A glimmer of understanding dawned in Ari's eyes as she watched the cloth morph. By steering the force applied to the node, she could achieve varying effects on the fabric. Following that revelation, she immersed herself in the task, taking the better part of an hour to perfect every element of the ensemble to her liking.

Turning around before the mirror, she admired her reflection. The entire uniform, down to the boots and cape skirt, matched her form flawlessly. And it looked stunning—a silhouette of stark elegance, eliciting admiration, but also a twinge of anxiety as unease threaded its way into Ari's heart.

(Is it truly my reflection? I look like a noble. Can I really have this?) The worries that had plagued her over the past days now surged forth with renewed vigor, amplified by the fatigue from her continual internal struggle to channel her Power.

"Young lady, you look splendid. It suits you very well. Shall we present your new attire to the others?" the assistant offered.

With a slight, affirmative nod, Ari attempted to mask her trembling hands. The assistant swept aside the drape, and together, they emerged from the alcove.

Ria gave a light-hearted groan upon seeing them. "An hour, Ari! Did you weave the fabric yourself in there?" Yet, following the second glance, her tone shifted to one of awe. "Whoa! Look at you! You look wonderful," she exclaimed.

"Indeed! You look gorgeous, young lady!" Master Toulon chimed in.

"Give us a twirl," Ria urged playfully.

Ari complied with her friend's request, the cape skirt dancing around her in a delicate flutter as she spun. With her cheeks aflame from embarrassment, she stopped, looking shyly at her spectators.

"So, how do you feel?" Ria prodded. "Do you like it?"

"Yes, immensely!" Ari realized she had almost shouted and hastily lowered her voice, blushing even more. "I mean, it fits really well—beyond anything I've ever worn. It feels so… right."

Master Toulon's face brightened with genuine delight at her words, his chest swelling with pride.

"In that case, we're taking it," Ria declared with a decisive nod.

"But…" Ari was still hesitating.

"No buts," Ria interrupted, then turned to Master Toulon. "Thank you for your service. Please send the bill to my estate."

"It shall be done. A pleasure serving you," he responded, dipping his head.

"Let's go, Ari. Now that you're all ready, we have the Blue District to visit," Ria said, tapping her foot impatiently.

Ari lingered for a moment, tracing the fine fabric of her new uniform, pondering whether it was appropriate to accept such a lavish gift.

A pang of recollection struck her. "What about my old dress?" she asked, thinking about the clothes left behind in the fitting room.

Ria wasted no time. "Master Toulon, please see to it that my friend's belongings are sent to the Academy. Under my name—we are roommates after all," she instructed, her voice carrying a poorly veiled impatience as her gaze flicked back to Ari. "Now, shall we?"

"One more question." Ari grew in courage to satisfy her curiosity. "I've never heard about a Power that alters sizes. How does it work?"

"To be truthful, I've never heard about such a Power either," the man replied. "You see, I design my creations in a way that allows the weave to contract and expand. There are limits, of course, and the version you have seen at the beginning was near the maximum of the size. Expanding it further would compromise the efficiency of the nodes due to the increased gaps between the weaves. Should you outgrow it in the future, please visit us again. In the meantime, enjoy this uniform that can grow with you. I trust it will serve you for many years to come." He paused, finger brushing thoughtfully against the back of his head. "Ah. I almost forgot. The other nodes. Each of them has a different function. I'll ensure a few pages of descriptions are sent alongside your old clothes."

Ari opened her mouth, ready to ask more questions about how it all worked, but Ria did not leave her a chance. She dragged her outside, ranting about how long she had waited and that she would not wait any longer.

 

A swarm of midges hovered above the lake's glassy surface, before abruptly meeting their demise in the gaping mouth of a leaping golden fish. Suspended for a mere heartbeat, the fish glimmered, basking in the dying sun's scarlet embrace, its scales ablaze with mesmerizing patterns. Then, with a flick, it disappeared into the obsidian depths of the water. Ari observed the scene, nestled in the soft grass covering the banks, her eyes lingering on the spot where the fish had vanished. She pictured herself leaping like that—from the familiar into an alien realm, an unknown environment. 

(Is it truly possible for me to make such a leap? Or perhaps, in the end, I'll return to what is normal for me? Just like that fish, I'll only have a few fleeting moments to shine,) she wondered.

Day by day, her life had grown wilder. There was not enough time for past events to settle in, and new ones were unfolding like an unstoppable torrent. She traced lightly over the fabric of her new jacket—a touch so soothing it almost brought tears. While still uncertain whether accepting such a gift was wise, she now knew it was irrevocably hers, and she would not relinquish it, no matter the circumstances.

As people's eyes lingered on her, their gazes now held a different weight. Their demeanor shifted too—she was visible, acknowledged. When she and Ria strolled through the Blue District, meeting various nobles, Ria's introductions were met with affable respect towards Ari. No longer was she perceived as an inconspicuous servant. However, the formality and palpable coolness of their exchanges felt alien, vastly differing from the warm and open greetings shared in the Docks. Was it her presence, the foreign element, causing this frigid civility? She lacked knowledge, so she decided to not dwell on it too much.

The spectacle of colorful fish breaking the surface of the lake and glinting in the dying light of the sunset brought her a long-awaited peace of mind. Up and down, she followed their trajectories as they leapt, taking to the air, before plunging back into the liquid abyss. Lying there, in nature's embrace, she felt a rare serenity—in these brief moments she was sure nothing bad could happen. But, as the sky darkened, the water got quieter and the number of splashes steadily declined, signaling the end of nature's performance.

"I think it's time to go back." She yawned and stretched, turning to Ria's side.

"We're not going back to the Academy today," came Ria's reply, her gaze lost in the vast sky.

A jolt of anxiety slashed through Ari's tranquil state. "What?" she said, abruptly sitting upright, her eyes narrowing upon her friend.

Ria turned toward her, eyes twinkling. "Tonight,"—a beaming smile sprouting on her face—"we shall dine and sleep in my house."

 <<<>>>