Chapter 19: Lessons in the Unseen
The next day, Sam and I found ourselves in one of the Academy's more obscure classrooms. The room was filled with dusty tomes and intricate diagrams covering every inch of the walls. This was the domain of Professor Ainsley, the Academy's leading expert in inscriptions and paranormal seals.
As we settled into our seats, Professor Ainsley began her lecture. "Good morning, students. Today, we will discuss the nature of supernatural entities and the methods used to contain them."
She turned to the chalkboard, her chalk dancing across the surface as she drew a series of complex symbols. "Most paranormal activities you'll encounter are caused by entities that have been awakened from their slumber. These entities, when disturbed, manifest in various ways, often creating illusions, disturbances, and, in rare cases, physical harm."
Sam raised his hand. "Professor, we encountered a Level D entity called the Dream Trapper. Can you tell us more about it?"
Professor Ainsley's eyes lit up with interest. "Ah, the Dream Trapper. A fascinating and relatively benign entity, though it can be quite dangerous if not handled correctly. Dream Trappers don't possess a physical form, making them difficult to detect with conventional methods. They create intricate dreamscapes, trapping their victims in an endless loop of illusions."
She paused, allowing the information to sink in. "The good news is that most Level D entities, like the Dream Trapper, are not inherently harmful. If someone is awakened from their trance, they usually wake up with no permanent damage. However, the psychological impact can be severe."
I couldn't help but think back to our experience at Blackwood Manor. "So, why did it happen to us? Why now?"
Professor Ainsley sighed, her expression turning somber. "That's the unpredictable nature of these entities. The place you visited was dealt with ten years ago, but sometimes, disturbances can reawaken these spirits. It's likely that something triggered the Dream Trapper, causing it to resume its activities."
She moved to a large glass jar on her desk, its surface covered in intricate inscriptions. "This is one method we use to contain such entities. Supernatural beings are often sealed in jars with specific inscriptions that prevent them from escaping. These inscriptions are a form of binding magic, incredibly difficult to master but very effective."
I glanced at Sam, who looked equally fascinated and bewildered. "Can we learn to create these inscriptions?"
Professor Ainsley nodded. "Yes, but be warned, it's not a popular subject. Inscriptions require a deep understanding of ancient languages, magical theory, and a steady hand. It's an art and a science, and only a few choose to specialize in it."
She pointed to a series of books on a nearby shelf. "If you're interested, those texts will be a good starting point. But be prepared for a challenging journey."
Sam and I exchanged a determined look. After our experience, we knew we needed every tool at our disposal. "We'll give it a shot," Sam said, his voice resolute.
The rest of the lecture focused on different types of supernatural entities. Professor Ainsley explained that entities above Level C or B often have physical forms. Some could maintain these forms only temporarily, while others could do so indefinitely, depending on their power and nature.
"These higher-level entities are far more dangerous," she warned. "They possess significant strength and can cause real, tangible harm. Dealing with them requires not only knowledge but also experience and caution."
As the class ended, Professor Ainsley called us over. "I'm glad you two are taking an interest in inscriptions. It's a neglected field but one of the most crucial. If you ever need guidance, don't hesitate to ask."
We thanked her and headed to the library, eager to start our new studies. The shelves were lined with ancient texts, each more daunting than the last. We selected a few that seemed manageable and settled into a quiet corner to begin our research.
The texts were dense, filled with complex symbols and archaic language. But the more we read, the more we realized the power and importance of what we were learning. Inscriptions could bind entities, protect against curses, and even create wards to shield entire areas from supernatural influence.
"Wow," Sam said, his eyes wide with amazement. "This is incredible. Imagine the kind of protection we could offer once we master this."
I nodded, equally enthused. "It's going to be tough, but I think it'll be worth it."
The days turned into weeks as we delved deeper into our studies. We practiced tirelessly, our fingers stained with ink as we meticulously copied the symbols, striving for perfection. Professor Ainsley provided guidance, her expertise invaluable as we navigated the complexities of inscription magic.
One evening, as we were working in the library, Sam looked up from his book. "Kan, do you think we'll ever encounter a Level B or C entity?"
I thought for a moment before replying. "It's possible. The Academy trains us for all levels of paranormal activity. But if we do, we'll be ready. We've faced the Dream Trapper and come out stronger. Whatever comes next, we'll handle it."
Sam grinned. "Yeah, you're right. And who knows, maybe we'll even get to put these inscriptions to the test."
As we continued our studies, the bond between us grew stronger. We knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, we would face them together, armed with knowledge and determination.
Our experience with the Dream Trapper had been a harsh lesson, but it had also ignited a passion within us to understand and master the world of the supernatural. And with each passing day, we grew more confident in our abilities and more prepared for the unknown.
And so, our journey at the Academy continued, filled with learning, discovery, and the ever-present thrill of the paranormal.