As Kendell, Celia, and Coli exited the Ritual Seals class, their conversation buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Before heading into a study room, they stopped by the help desk at the front of the study hall, manned by a group of senior students.
"Hi, we're from Professor Grent's class. We need the materials and rods for practicing seals," Celia explained.
"Of course," replied one of the seniors, handing them a set of parchment, ink, and specially designed rods that mimicked the act of drawing seals in the air. "Remember, these rods won't activate any real magic. They're just for practice. Good luck!"
With their new tools in hand, the trio found a quiet room in the back of the long study hall. The large hall was filled with students huddled over books and scrolls, the air thick with concentration.
"So, how do we want to tackle this assignment?" Celia asked, laying out the parchment and ink. Her expression was focused, the role of group leader fitting her naturally.
"I think we should start by each trying to draw the seal Professor Grent showed us, then compare notes," Kendell suggested, his mind already analyzing the patterns and techniques required.
"Sounds like a plan," Coli agreed, though his face showed a hint of apprehension. He picked up the rod, his hand slightly trembling.
As they began, it became clear that the task was more challenging than they had anticipated. Kendell's first attempts were shaky, but he quickly found a rhythm, his innate understanding of patterns and sequences aiding him.
Celia, methodical and precise, made steady progress, her seals showing a high level of accuracy- unsurprising as she was already performing real magical rituals a few weeks ago. Coli, on the other hand, struggled. His seals were imprecise, the lines wobbling and breaking at crucial points.
"Ugh, this is harder than I thought," Coli exclaimed in frustration. "I can't get these lines right."
"Let's take a break and see what we each did," Celia suggested, sensing the tension in Coli's voice. They laid their parchments side by side, analyzing their work.
Kendell observed silently, noting the stark differences in their techniques. He hesitated for a moment before speaking, "Coli, maybe you're focusing too much on the endpoint. Try to feel the flow of the seal, like you're guiding the energy along its path, rather than just drawing lines."
Coli looked at Kendell, a mixture of gratitude and surprise in his eyes. "That's a different way to think about it. Thanks, I'll give it a try."
Their dynamic shifted as they resumed practice, with each member openly sharing tips and encouraging one another. The atmosphere became more collaborative, their initial frustrations giving way to a sense of collective accomplishment.
As they progressed, their conversation drifted to personal interests and backgrounds. Kendell listened more than he spoke, careful not to dive deep into his fake past with Coli there to see the holes in his stories. Celia shared her fascination with the history of ritual magic, while Coli talked about his family's expectations and his own aspirations as a Devil Contractor.
"Hey, Kendell, you've got a good grasp on this. Did you practice any similar arts before?" Celia inquired, her curiosity piqued by his aptitude.
Kendell chuckled, "Nothing magical, I assure you. Just used to be good at puzzles, I guess."
The session ended with each of them successfully drawing a basic seal, albeit with varying degrees of precision. They packed up their materials, feeling a sense of achievement and a deepening bond.
"Today was great, you two," Coli said, a genuine smile on his face. "I'm really glad we're in this together."
"Yeah, we make a good team," Celia added, her earlier seriousness replaced by a warm smile, "Do you guys want to grab some food? I am starving we haven't eaten all day!" The others looked at each other and nodded hastily in agreement.
As they left the study hall, Kendell reflected on the day. The challenge of mastering ritual seals, the complexities of teamwork, and the slow but steady building of trust with Celia and Coli filled him with a sense of purpose and belonging.
The trio made their way to the bustling cafeteria, each carrying a tray laden with food. The cacophony of voices and clatter of utensils filled the air as they found a table in a quieter corner.
Sitting down, Coli was the first to break the silence, "So, Kendell, how are you feeling about everything? Tilanaz is quite different from our primary school, huh?"
Kendell nodded, poking at his food, "Definitely. It's a lot to take in, but I'm excited. What about you, Coli?"
"I'm a bit overwhelmed, to be honest," Coli admitted. "I mean, Devil Contracting is no joke, and I want to do well. My family expects a lot."
Celia, who had been quietly listening, chimed in, "It's normal to feel that way. We're all under pressure here, but we've got each other's backs. That's what counts."
The conversation shifted as Celia asked, "What's your take on the other students? Any interesting observations?"
Kendell pondered for a moment, "There's a wide range of talents here. Some students already seem to have a deep connection with their magical paths. It's inspiring but a bit intimidating."
"True," Coli added, "Did you see that group of Fey Binders in the courtyard? They were already summoning minor fey creatures. It was fascinating."
As they ate, their talk meandered through various topics, from their favorite subjects to the upcoming events at the academy. They shared laughs over some of the eccentric professors and speculated about the Royal Rally.
Celia leaned in, lowering her voice, "What do you guys think about the rumors of a secret society within Tilanaz? Some say they explore forbidden magic."
Coli's eyes widened, "Really? That sounds risky. But I guess there's always someone wanting to push the boundaries."
Kendell, feeling a bit out of depth, added, "It's best we focus on our studies for now. I wouldn't want to get tangled up in anything dangerous."
The conversation took a lighter turn as they discussed plans for the weekend. Celia proposed a study session in the library, while Coli suggested exploring the academy grounds for some much-needed relaxation.
As eating came to an end, they cleared their trays and headed out with future plans ready to solidify this new group. As the group was walking out of the cafeteria, all the sudden a piercing noise echoed the halls of the academy!