The days that followed were filled with training. Kai spent hours every day learning to control his mana, practicing basic spells, and studying the fundamentals of magic.
But the more he learned, the more he realized how little he understood. Magic was a complex force, and even the most basic spells required precision and focus. It was as if every action was a delicate balance between willpower and understanding.
One day, while he was practicing a simple spell to create a small flame, a voice interrupted him.
"You're doing it wrong."
Kai turned to see another apprentice, a boy about his age, standing nearby with a smug smile. He had messy black hair and a look of arrogance in his eyes.
"I'm sorry, do I know you?" Kai asked, keeping his voice neutral.
"I'm Lucas," the boy said, walking closer. "And I'm here to teach you how to do it properly."
Kai raised an eyebrow. He wasn't one to take kindly to unsolicited advice, but something in Lucas' demeanor suggested he knew what he was talking about.
"Alright, show me how it's done," Kai said, curious to see what this boy could offer.
Lucas smirked and raised his hand, a small ball of fire appearing in his palm. "You see, you need to focus on the flame's core and then shape the outer layers. If you don't, your spell will burn out before it even starts."
Kai watched intently, trying to absorb the technique. So that's how it works. Focus on the core first, then shape it.
"Try again," Lucas said.
Kai nodded and focused on his mana, this time remembering Lucas' instructions. He formed the spell carefully, and to his surprise, a small, stable flame flickered to life in his palm.
"Well done," Lucas said, a hint of approval in his voice. "You'll get the hang of it in no time."
"Thanks," Kai replied, still amazed at the simplicity of the technique. But as he stared at the flame, a thought crossed his mind. This is just the beginning. There's so much more to learn, and I don't know how far this will take me.