The following morning greeted Aira and her companions with crisp clarity, the energy of the recent tournament still palpable in their conversations and shared triumphs.
As they gathered in the courtyard, animated chatter filled the air, recounting their experiences and discussing the lingering mystery of the rogue dragon.
"Good morning, young adepts," Professor Senyu greeted warmly. "It's time to revisit the thrill of soaring through the skies. Today, we'll delve into advanced techniques that will test your skills and coordination."
Excitement surged through the group as they followed Professor Senyu to the familiar open field where they had first learned to fly. There, the professor began demonstrating intricate manoeuvres, from precise aerial acrobatics to swift evasive tactics. Amidst their training, Isaac approached Aira with a determined expression.
"Aira," Isaac began, his voice steady, "I've been thinking about combining lightning and water magic. I believe it could create a powerful and unique effect."
Aira raised an eyebrow, intrigued yet cautious. "Lightning and water? That sounds promising, but it could also be dangerous. What exactly do you have in mind?"
Isaac nodded, understanding her concern. "I know there are risks, but if we can control it, the synergy between water's conductivity and lightning's power could give us an advantage in the tournament. We should test it out in a controlled setting first."
Aira considered his proposal thoughtfully. "Let's try it during our next magic session with Mr. Lixon. Start with small amounts of magic to gauge how they interact."
After an intensive training session under Professor Senyu's guidance, they returned from the academy grounds, their muscles pleasantly fatigued and minds buzzing with newfound knowledge. It was then that Headmaster Dusseldorf's voice reverberated across the grounds through the enchanted communication system.
"Attention, students of Avalon Academy," his voice announced authoritatively. "In fostering unity and camaraderie among the houses, I'm pleased to introduce a new initiative. Starting today, students will be assigned to dormitories based on their class."
Whispers and murmurs filled the air as students processed the news, exchanging curious glances and excited chatter about their new living arrangements. Aira and her friends, now officially part of the dormitory, gathered with their classmates, discussing plans for the upcoming days.
Their day continued with a session under Professor Magnus, delving into complex potion theory and practical applications.
Before heading back to Mr. Lixon's shop. Aira expressed concern about her part-time job.
"You'll need to quit now," Ruby explained gently. "Your scholarship covers your dormitory, so you don't need to worry about finances. I am excited."
At Mr. Lixon's shop, Aira eagerly recounted their encounter with the dragon and the discovery of the mysterious locket. Mr. Lixon listened intently, his eyes thoughtful behind his spectacles.
"Ah, Aira," Mr. Lixon rumbled in his deep voice, "you've stumbled upon something extraordinary. Dragons are ancient beings, guardians of powerful magic and knowledge long forgotten by most. The fact that one appeared near Arnold is troubling indeed."
He adjusted his spectacles, his gaze focused. "Years ago, there were rumours of such creatures stirring in the world's depths. To encounter one so close to our sanctuary... someone was behind it." His words trailed off, leaving the implications unspoken but heavy in the air.
"Anyway, come with me" ordered Mr Lixon.
Mr Lixon then guided Aira to a secluded corner of his shop, revealing a hidden passage leading underground to a spacious room lined with various targets—an ideal space for practising fire magic.
"Fire magic?" Aira echoed uncertainly. "I was looking forward to it. I'm a little nervous."
Mr. Lixon chuckled softly. "No need to worry, Aira. Every journey begins with a single spark. Let me guide you."
He patiently instructed Aira on the basics of fire manipulation, encouraging her to feel the elemental heat and control its intensity.
With Ruby's quiet guidance, Aira gradually gained confidence, learning to shape and direct flames with increasing precision.
"You're doing wonderfully," Mr. Lixon praised. "Remember, fire is both a force of creation and destruction. Respect its power, and it will serve you well."
As Aira practised, Ruby suddenly exclaimed, "Aira, the locket!"
Aira paused, recalling the locket's mysterious energies. She recounted how it had seemingly awakened her latent abilities, prompting Mr. Lixon to ponder deeply.
"According to what you've described, Aira," Mr. Lixon mused, "the locket seems to have awakened your divinity. It may also hold the key to healing magic. But why Seraphina entrusted it to you remains a mystery."
Aira nodded thoughtfully. "Do I need to wear it to access my divinity?" she asked.
"No, Aira," Mr. Lixon replied gently. "The locket's role was to awaken your potential. Your connection to it is now intrinsic."
Before Aira left for the day, Mr. Lixon handed her a small, ornate mirror and her payment. "Take this mirror," he said solemnly. "It's enchanted to allow us to communicate while you're in your dormitory. Should you need guidance or simply wish to talk, it will bridge the distance between us. Now don't say that we can contact through the phone."
Gratefully accepting the mirror, Aira thanked Mr. Lixon for his guidance and support.
"Aira," Mr. Lixon said suddenly, his tone serious, "there's something you should know. I know you are not from this world. Your soul, I can see it—it's different."
Aira and Ruby exchanged surprised glances, absorbing his words.
"My magic allows me to see souls," Mr. Lixon continued gently. "Your soul doesn't belong here."
Aira took a moment to process this revelation. "What does this mean?" she asked quietly.
"It means," Mr. Lixon explained, "that your arrival here is not by chance. There's a purpose to your presence, and I believe Lady Seraphina knows more about it."
Aira nodded slowly, her thoughts racing with newfound questions and possibilities. "Can you and Lady Seraphina help me understand?" she asked earnestly. "I'll explain everything about how I came to this world when the time is right. Please, help me."
With a reassuring smile, Mr. Lixon nodded. "We will do what we can, Aira. You're not alone in this."
As Aira and Ruby soared back to their dormitory using an enchanted flight spell, they noticed something unexpected when they reached home—an ethereal recording crystal hovering in mid-air, emitting a soft glow.
"What's this?" Aira wondered aloud, reaching out to touch the crystal.
Ruby examined it closely. "It seems to be an enchanted recording crystal," she murmured. "Someone must have left it here for you."
Aira's curiosity deepened as she realized the significance of the crystal. "Who could have left this for me?" she wondered aloud, her mind buzzing with possibilities.