The following morning, Aelar strolled into the hall with fellow novices already sharing their experiences and speculating about the next steps. Harman stood confidently at the front, flanked by two attentive adepts.
Noticing everyone had arrived ahead of time, Harman smiled, "Looks like you all are adjusting to the academy's punctuality. Nice! How's everyone finding their rooms?"
A chorus of positive responses filled the room. "They're pretty comfortable, Master," someone said.
Clearing his throat, Harman got down to the details. "Now, while you're free to explore most places like the halls, sparring yards, gardens, libraries, and common rooms, some areas are off-limits. You'd do well to steer clear of those."
Caden curiously asked, "Master Harman, I've heard this rumor that the academy's built on some ancient ruins. Is there any truth to that?"
Laughing, Harman replied, "Legends and stories surround places like these. Some have a grain of truth, others are just tales. But they all add to the allure, don't they?"
The mention of the ruins intrigued Aelar. There had to be more to the story than just legends.
Harman continued, "I'd suggest you spend some time in the Novice libraries. They've got everything you need - books, scrolls, and all the information you might need to cover the basics of Essence and Energies. It's a treasure trove, really."
Sensing the room's anticipation, Harman wrapped up the session. "Alright, I'll see you all right here in two months. Same time. Make the most of your break, and learn all you can."
The novices exchanged glances, some filled with excitement, others with apprehension. They gathered their things, ready to head out. The chatter grew louder as they made plans, some deciding to explore the nearby towns while others, like Aelar, were eager to return to their homes.
Upon arriving home, Aelar was welcomed by the familiar surroundings but with a new sense of purpose. He knew he had to prepare; the best way was to dive deep into the world of magic.
He had been granted access to the restricted sections of Nalanda Library, a privilege he wouldn't waste.
The days that followed were a blur of reading, practice, and more reading. Aelar explored tomes that detailed the ancient history of magic, scrolls that talked about the nuances of energies, and manuscripts that delved into the mysteries of essence.
Every evening, he'd sit by his window, reflecting on his learning. It felt as though he was on the brink of unlocking secrets that had been guarded for centuries.
Two weeks later, Osho left the library and the City of Marud to pursue some personal affairs.
Without Osho's presence, Nalanda Library seemed different. The new mage in charge, a stern woman named Gwen with piercing black eyes and a tall stature, ran things efficiently but lacked Osho's warmth.
The staff continued with their tasks diligently, missing Osho's occasional jests and the wisdom he shared.
Aelar, too, felt the absence keenly. He missed the sporadic conversations, the deep dives into the mysteries of magic, and the guidance Osho provided. But he also recognized the value of standing on his own two feet.
One day, after a particularly grueling study session, Amay approached him. "Aelar, you've been cooped up in the library for weeks. Knowledge isn't just found in books. It's out there in experiences, people, and places. You need to see more, feel more."
Aelar looked at him, a bit taken aback. "But I thought..."
Amay interrupted gently, "Osho may have left temporarily, but his teachings remain. Remember how he'd often say that real wisdom is in understanding the world around you, not just the theories?"
Aelar nodded. Those words had been a constant in Osho's teachings.
"So," Amay continued, "why don't you pack a small bag and explore the neighboring towns and villages? Trade tales with travelers, watch mages, warriors, and common people in other settings, and learn from every experience. It'll give you a broader perspective that'll be invaluable at the academy."
Taking the advice to heart, Aelar prepared for his journey. The following day, with excitement and apprehension, he stepped outside his home, ready to embrace the vast world awaiting him.
Aelar decided to seek out Marisa, the gypsy. Her caravan was known for its travels, touching the most remote parts of the region and coming back with tales of wonder. He waded through the alleys and marketplaces, finally reaching the vibrant gypsy stalls.
"Marisa!" Aelar called out, spotting her amidst the colorful fabrics of her tent.
She looked up, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Ah, the young mage! To what do I owe this pleasure?"
Aelar hesitated momentarily, then said, "I was hoping to join you on your travels. I want to see the world, experience its wonders, and learn."
Marisa chuckled, "The young ones are always so eager. There's a group of herb gatherers leaving this afternoon. You can tag along with them. They'll be heading towards the mountains. From there, you can venture independently or continue with them."
Grateful, Aelar spent the rest of the morning with the gypsies. As the sun rose to the afternoon peak, he found himself outside the city, next to the gypsy caravan, ready for the journey ahead.
They traveled in horse-drawn carriages, with the rhythmic sound of hooves echoing around. As night fell, they camped near a serene lake, its waters reflecting the moonlight.
Using their skills, they managed to trap a few wild rabbits, with Aelar impressively using his water spells. The campfire roared to life, casting dancing shadows around them as they cooked their catch. The aroma of the grilled meat wafted through the air.
As they sat around the fire, Fade, a young gypsy with reddish hair, began weaving a tale. "Beyond the Frostpeak mountains," she began, her voice a haunting whisper, "there's a creeping desolation. Once lively and full, villages now lay abandoned, claimed by this encroaching evil."
Aelar, intrigued, asked, "Have you seen this desolation?"
Fade shook her head. "No. I've not ventured that far. But the tales have traveled, speaking of its horrors." The night deepened, with Fade's tale casting a somber mood.
Tarn, an older gypsy, sensing the shift, decided it was time to rest. "We have an early start tomorrow," he reminded everyone. "We're headed to Badenar."
Aelar lay down, the tales of the desolation echoing in his mind.