A dilapidated shack occupied a small section of the forest. The person responsible for the construction of the location had forsaken it long before, leaving it open for any living being to become its tenant. During Tyrus’ travels between villages, he made certain that there was no evidence of recent usage when he first discovered it. Convinced of its vacancy, he resolved to make the location his home. It did its job to protect him from heavy rain and wild animals.
He approached the front and meticulously opened the door. It let out a loud squeak in retaliation. In the limited space, there was nothing but a straw bed and a withered desk. The surface contained a few objects, including a box and several wooden bowls holding spoons. Tyrus found no traces of an intrusion and relaxed.
“Okay, you can come in now,” he said out loud. The two of them leisurely entered the abode, and Wanderer positioned themselves in the corner quietly. “You can lie down on my bed if you want.”
Wanderer shook their head. “Thank you for the kind offer, but I shall stand. I am a guest of your home, and I would deem it rude to sit in your place of comfort.”
Tyrus did nothing about it and sat on the pile of straw. It was mostly uncomfortable just laying on it because of the straw pricking the skin, but he got used to it. The bed provided him with warmth and some level of comfortability. He had never slept on a more comfortable bed and resolved to never take it for granted. Sleeping on a wooden floor with no protection had given him an awful ache in his shoulders that took many moon cycles to get through.
Instead of stalling more than he needed to, Tyrus thought it was best to just say what was on his mind. “Was that magic you used on those two you killed?”
Wanderer averted their gaze away from the table and peered at Tyrus. “Are you perhaps interested in sorcery?”
Tyrus nodded his head feverishly. He had always been interested in the ways of magic. He remembered his first time witnessing such a spectacle just last year.
While taking refuge in a small, abandoned village for a break, he heard a commotion outside. As he ascended the ladder and gazed through the second floor, he caught sight of a cluster of carriages. They weren’t regular carriages, however, as they were all as shiny as white pearls. On their sides carried a crest Tyrus had never seen before; a black snowflake on a white backdrop. Surrounding the carriages were armored guards riding horses. He figured that someone important had to be inside.
The convoy was being attacked by a pack of beasts, most particularly lesser hounds. The creatures were wolves possessing tangled black fur and eyes that gleamed like rubies. Tyrus had a run-in with a pack and was barely able to escape. It required climbing a tree and waiting until the lesser hounds lost interest.
The men in front of him had opted for the opposite approach and brought out their swords to deal with the threat. Just as they were about to run forward and fight against the lesser hounds, the door of the carriage flung open, and out came a snow-white hand.
What emerged from the vehicle was not a person, but a luminous light emitted from their palms, which ejected a plethora of ice shards. The crystals bombarded the lesser hounds, and their paned yelps slashed the air. Once the beasts were dead, the white hand was lowered, and the carriage door closed.
Ever since that day, Tyrus had been mesmerized by the display he was graced with- a sight that reminded him of snowflakes fluttering down gracefully underneath the sunlight. He even dreamed of commanding such power. His life would be much easier if he could use magic. With just a flick of a finger, you could create your very own fire or drinkable water!
Wanderer watched Tyrus for a moment, unmoving, until their lips curled. “Your enthusiasm is commendable. How well-versed are you in the subject of mana?”
“I know nothing about it.”
They nodded and then lowered themselves to the ground to sit. Tyrus could’ve sworn he heard the jingle of jewelry. “Mana is an omnipresent natural energy. It is a divine power that the gods have blessed mankind with- a power none take lightly and a gift that allows one to channel mana and allows the user to use magical arts. The predominant type of sorcerers are the Elemental Sorcerers, who possess the ability to manipulate elements, including fire, water, earth, air, and others.”
Listening intently to Wanderer's words, Tyrus kept his mouth open and forgot to blink. He was not aware that there were different sorcerers, other than simply manipulating an element. Interest in the subject skyrocketed, and he threw Wanderer a question. “I saw someone shoot ice out of their palms. Were they an Elemental Sorcerer?”
“If they can control ice, then it can be assumed that they have the ability to do so. Other elements exist apart from the common four.”
Tyrus scooted closer. “How do I use magic, then? I feel like it’d be cool to summon fire out of my hands!”
The figure chuckled at his eagerness. “If you want to become a sorcerer, you must first be fortunate enough to be blessed to harness such power. There are many methods to verify such trivial matters. An experienced sorcerer like myself can detect Sthito’s blessing with a single touch.”
Wanderer beckoned Tyrus forth with a gesture. At first, he hesitated, but his anticipation of learning magic had overcome his senses. He extended his arm slowly, palms upward. The cloaked figure nodded and gently placed their hands on top of his. They both sat there in silence.
While Wanderer was busy, Tyrus’ thoughts drifted. He wondered what element he would awaken to if he had the blessing of Sthito within him. It would be preferable to be a water sorcerer. Obtaining drinkable water wouldn’t be a concern for him. There was also fire to think about, too. No need to manually labor to create a working fire whenever the nights grew cold…
“As expected,” Wanderer said as they pulled their hand back.
Tyrus shot up, face etched with worry. “Expected? What do you mean by that?”
“…What I mean is you have the blessing of Sthito.”
Upon hearing the good news, Tyrus’ lips trembled. It was the first time in a while good fortune had fallen on top of him. He had heard whispers from townsfolk that those who become sorcerers are usually well-off, living in mansions and swimming in wealth. They lived leisurely, as they had no fear of running out of sil and gold.
Sleeping in beds as soft as sheep’s wool and wearing a range of clean garments that provided comfort. Best of all, however, was that famed sorcerers had access to the capital of Lethos: Valis.
Valis ranked among the wealthiest cities in Dharmere- a place envied for its towering marble buildings and intricate architecture. It was a city most commoners dreamed of inhabiting, hoping to steal a singular glance at the esteemed city. The townsfolk’s description had enthralled Tyrus, and he had always wanted to see the city up close. Knowing he had the abilities of a sorcerer, the dark tunnel he wandered through had a faint, mesmerizing light at its end.
That light faded quickly after Wanderer spoke again. “Becoming a sorcerer isn’t easy, child. I have simply stated that you have received the blessing of Sthito. Though the news is excellent, I advise you not to raise your expectations for widespread recognition. I am afraid that your race might lead to ostracism and hinder your skills from matching those of your peers.”
The boy immediately pulled his cap down, nearly obscuring his eyes. A suffocating air permeated throughout the shabby building. For a few moments, Tyrus had already forgotten what he was. His heart grew as heavy as a sack of rocks as he thought back to those men from earlier. They had been so cruel as soon as they caught sight of his ears and claws. If those two treated him like dirt, then what about the rest? Much worse would be done to him- unless…
The fire in his heart rekindled once more. “As long as they don’t see my ears, it’ll be okay. I’ll just have to be careful of my actions and everything will be all right. It’s just as you said- do whatever is necessary to secure a safe and bright future for yourself. I don’t want to live like this anymore. I want to be treated the same as anyone else! If becoming a sorcerer will accomplish my goals, then hiding my ears is easy compared to what lies ahead.”
Wanderer’s lips formed a smile. “I can see your iron-clad resolve through your eyes. The sight of those eyes reminds me of him. Very well, young child. Rest assured that I will do all that I can to assist you in your struggle.”
Tyrus's cheeks dimpled as he smiled ear to ear. “T-Thank you very much! When will we start? I want to start throwing out fire and ice!”
“There is a necessity for things to be arranged in order. The first step to embarking on your journey is to awaken to mana. Different races exhibit diverse patterns of awakenings. Certain people awaken early, whereas others require a lengthier period. Your hybrid status makes it particularly difficult to determine your awakening. How old are you, child?”
“…Tyrus,” he said under his breath.
“Hm?”
“My name is Tyrus. You didn’t know my name, so I thought it’d be easier than calling me child… If you don’t want to call me that, then it’s fine. I don’t mind.”
Wanderer nodded slowly. “Okay, Tyrus. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Although I would be pleased to reveal my name, I am unable to do so for personal reasons. I hope you understand.”
“It’s fine. You’ve done so much for a stranger like me. I wouldn’t dare overstep my boundaries. Also, to answer your question, I think I’m around nine.”
“Hm… I estimate you have met the threshold. Beastfolk awaken at seven, while for humans it’s at eleven. Given your Demi-human status, we can infer that the age range falls within those parameters. Please lie on your back, Tyrus.”
He complied with the request and reclined on his straw bed. Wanderer shuffled over and sat right in front of Tyrus, looming over him. They turned their lips into a frown. “I would like to verify something before we begin. Have you encountered or sensed mana yet? The energy is as white as snow and evokes a tingling sensation all over the body.”
Tyrus shook his head. Never has he felt mana. Until now, he had not been acquainted with the term. His knowledge was extremely limited to that sort of topic. He was a juvenile who lacked a formal education and had been solitary for as long as he could recall. Regarding that, it’s a wonder he survived for so long by himself. His past was a complete mystery to him, yet he didn’t dwell on it too much.
“It’s important that I inform you that the procedure you are about to undergo may cause significant discomfort, if not pain. Typically, those who are blessed would naturally perceive mana. In your case, we will hasten the process. As a result, there is a possibility that your body may incur damage, and your chances of becoming a sorcerer may be diminished. Do you wish to continue or delay?”
Tyrus nodded at Wanderer’s warning. His decision was made upon the discovery of his potential. No amount of persuasion could sway him. “I want to start as soon as possible. I’m ready, Wanderer.”
Without being told twice, the figure lowered their arm and placed a palm on Tyrus’ chest. The room gradually fell silent, and Tyrus could only discern external sounds as he kept his eyes closed. The walls reverberated with the sound of leaves whistling in the faint breeze and birds crying out from the tops of trees. He could even hear Wanderer’s breathing, one that was calm and rhythmic. After a few moments had passed, Tyrus felt a numbing pain in his heart. That feeling soon turned into a pinch, and then one akin to a slap on the cheek. His fingers trembled, and he clenched his jaw.
He felt his own skin heat up as the bumping of his heart increased. Some parts of his tunic had even felt damp. Besides the discomfort and agony, he sensed something different. He experienced a strange power taking over his body. A blazing pain that he had never felt before hit his chest. Tyrus wished to plead with Wanderer to halt, feeling he had made a terrible error that made him want to cry. Though he wanted to yield, he bit his tongue in retaliation. He promised them he was ready- that he would commit to whatever was necessary.
Shaking away negativity, he redirected his thoughts to something else. The benefits of learning magic were on his mind. If he became proficient enough, he’d be able to earn sil from hunting beasts. With enough money, he’d be able to purchase his own fresh goods without worrying whether it’d make him sick. The sweet, tantalizing taste of fortune was on the tip of his tongue, and he wouldn’t let some pain deter him.
Tyrus tried to think of more positive thoughts, but the pain was too much for him. It had spread all throughout his body. He felt himself losing consciousness- briefly fearing death before becoming a sorcerer. Just as he was about to pass out, a reassuring voice called out to him.
“You can open your eyes now, Tyrus.”
Immediately, his eyes flung open, and he sat upright, clamping his chest. Tears streamed down the corners of his eyes, and black spots danced along the edges. When he glanced up, a breathtaking sight befell him. Surrounding Wanderer were a pillar of white particles as blinding as peering into the sun.
To save himself from becoming blind, Tyrus looked away. The burning sensation in his chest subsided, and it was replaced with a soothing sensation that poured through his veins. Amidst all of that, a new feeling had crept into his body, one that contained a power he had felt before.
“The fact that you turned away your gaze shows that you see the mana revolving around me. Congratulations, Tyrus. You may now begin your journey as a sorcerer.”
Tyrus would love to jump up with glee and thank the figure profusely, but a splitting headache had prohibited him from moving. Unable to bear it any longer, he collapsed onto the straw bed as his eyelids became heavy. The last thing he saw was the smiling face of Wanderer, and gentle skin caressing his forehead
A dilapidated shack occupied a small section of the forest. The person responsible for the construction of the location had forsaken it long before, leaving it open for any living being to become its tenant. During Tyrus’ travels between villages, he made certain that there was no evidence of recent usage when he first discovered it. Convinced of its vacancy, he resolved to make the location his home. It did its job to protect him from heavy rain and wild animals.
He approached the front and meticulously opened the door. It let out a loud squeak in retaliation. In the limited space, there was nothing but a straw bed and a withered desk. The surface contained a few objects, including a box and several wooden bowls holding spoons. Tyrus found no traces of an intrusion and relaxed.
“Okay, you can come in now,” he said out loud. The two of them leisurely entered the abode, and Wanderer positioned themselves in the corner quietly. “You can lie down on my bed if you want.”
Wanderer shook their head. “Thank you for the kind offer, but I shall stand. I am a guest of your home, and I would deem it rude to sit in your place of comfort.”
Tyrus did nothing about it and sat on the pile of straw. It was mostly uncomfortable just laying on it because of the straw pricking the skin, but he got used to it. The bed provided him with warmth and some level of comfortability. He had never slept on a more comfortable bed and resolved to never take it for granted. Sleeping on a wooden floor with no protection had given him an awful ache in his shoulders that took many moon cycles to get through.
Instead of stalling more than he needed to, Tyrus thought it was best to just say what was on his mind. “Was that magic you used on those two you killed?”
Wanderer averted their gaze away from the table and peered at Tyrus. “Are you perhaps interested in sorcery?”
Tyrus nodded his head feverishly. He had always been interested in the ways of magic. He remembered his first time witnessing such a spectacle just last year.
While taking refuge in a small, abandoned village for a break, he heard a commotion outside. As he ascended the ladder and gazed through the second floor, he caught sight of a cluster of carriages. They weren’t regular carriages, however, as they were all as shiny as white pearls. On their sides carried a crest Tyrus had never seen before; a black snowflake on a white backdrop. Surrounding the carriages were armored guards riding horses. He figured that someone important had to be inside.
The convoy was being attacked by a pack of beasts, most particularly lesser hounds. The creatures were wolves possessing tangled black fur and eyes that gleamed like rubies. Tyrus had a run-in with a pack and was barely able to escape. It required climbing a tree and waiting until the lesser hounds lost interest.
The men in front of him had opted for the opposite approach and brought out their swords to deal with the threat. Just as they were about to run forward and fight against the lesser hounds, the door of the carriage flung open, and out came a snow-white hand.
What emerged from the vehicle was not a person, but a luminous light emitted from their palms, which ejected a plethora of ice shards. The crystals bombarded the lesser hounds, and their paned yelps slashed the air. Once the beasts were dead, the white hand was lowered, and the carriage door closed.
Ever since that day, Tyrus had been mesmerized by the display he was graced with- a sight that reminded him of snowflakes fluttering down gracefully underneath the sunlight. He even dreamed of commanding such power. His life would be much easier if he could use magic. With just a flick of a finger, you could create your very own fire or drinkable water!
Wanderer watched Tyrus for a moment, unmoving, until their lips curled. “Your enthusiasm is commendable. How well-versed are you in the subject of mana?”
“I know nothing about it.”
They nodded and then lowered themselves to the ground to sit. Tyrus could’ve sworn he heard the jingle of jewelry. “Mana is an omnipresent natural energy. It is a divine power that the gods have blessed mankind with- a power none take lightly and a gift that allows one to channel mana and allows the user to use magical arts. The predominant type of sorcerers are the Elemental Sorcerers, who possess the ability to manipulate elements, including fire, water, earth, air, and others.”
Listening intently to Wanderer's words, Tyrus kept his mouth open and forgot to blink. He was not aware that there were different sorcerers, other than simply manipulating an element. Interest in the subject skyrocketed, and he threw Wanderer a question. “I saw someone shoot ice out of their palms. Were they an Elemental Sorcerer?”
“If they can control ice, then it can be assumed that they have the ability to do so. Other elements exist apart from the common four.”
Tyrus scooted closer. “How do I use magic, then? I feel like it’d be cool to summon fire out of my hands!”
The figure chuckled at his eagerness. “If you want to become a sorcerer, you must first be fortunate enough to be blessed to harness such power. There are many methods to verify such trivial matters. An experienced sorcerer like myself can detect Sthito’s blessing with a single touch.”
Wanderer beckoned Tyrus forth with a gesture. At first, he hesitated, but his anticipation of learning magic had overcome his senses. He extended his arm slowly, palms upward. The cloaked figure nodded and gently placed their hands on top of his. They both sat there in silence.
While Wanderer was busy, Tyrus’ thoughts drifted. He wondered what element he would awaken to if he had the blessing of Sthito within him. It would be preferable to be a water sorcerer. Obtaining drinkable water wouldn’t be a concern for him. There was also fire to think about, too. No need to manually labor to create a working fire whenever the nights grew cold…
“As expected,” Wanderer said as they pulled their hand back.
Tyrus shot up, face etched with worry. “Expected? What do you mean by that?”
“…What I mean is you have the blessing of Sthito.”
Upon hearing the good news, Tyrus’ lips trembled. It was the first time in a while good fortune had fallen on top of him. He had heard whispers from townsfolk that those who become sorcerers are usually well-off, living in mansions and swimming in wealth. They lived leisurely, as they had no fear of running out of sil and gold.
Sleeping in beds as soft as sheep’s wool and wearing a range of clean garments that provided comfort. Best of all, however, was that famed sorcerers had access to the capital of Lethos: Valis.
Valis ranked among the wealthiest cities in Dharmere- a place envied for its towering marble buildings and intricate architecture. It was a city most commoners dreamed of inhabiting, hoping to steal a singular glance at the esteemed city. The townsfolk’s description had enthralled Tyrus, and he had always wanted to see the city up close. Knowing he had the abilities of a sorcerer, the dark tunnel he wandered through had a faint, mesmerizing light at its end.
That light faded quickly after Wanderer spoke again. “Becoming a sorcerer isn’t easy, child. I have simply stated that you have received the blessing of Sthito. Though the news is excellent, I advise you not to raise your expectations for widespread recognition. I am afraid that your race might lead to ostracism and hinder your skills from matching those of your peers.”
The boy immediately pulled his cap down, nearly obscuring his eyes. A suffocating air permeated throughout the shabby building. For a few moments, Tyrus had already forgotten what he was. His heart grew as heavy as a sack of rocks as he thought back to those men from earlier. They had been so cruel as soon as they caught sight of his ears and claws. If those two treated him like dirt, then what about the rest? Much worse would be done to him- unless…
The fire in his heart rekindled once more. “As long as they don’t see my ears, it’ll be okay. I’ll just have to be careful of my actions and everything will be all right. It’s just as you said- do whatever is necessary to secure a safe and bright future for yourself. I don’t want to live like this anymore. I want to be treated the same as anyone else! If becoming a sorcerer will accomplish my goals, then hiding my ears is easy compared to what lies ahead.”
Wanderer’s lips formed a smile. “I can see your iron-clad resolve through your eyes. The sight of those eyes reminds me of him. Very well, young child. Rest assured that I will do all that I can to assist you in your struggle.”
Tyrus's cheeks dimpled as he smiled ear to ear. “T-Thank you very much! When will we start? I want to start throwing out fire and ice!”
“There is a necessity for things to be arranged in order. The first step to embarking on your journey is to awaken to mana. Different races exhibit diverse patterns of awakenings. Certain people awaken early, whereas others require a lengthier period. Your hybrid status makes it particularly difficult to determine your awakening. How old are you, child?”
“…Tyrus,” he said under his breath.
“Hm?”
“My name is Tyrus. You didn’t know my name, so I thought it’d be easier than calling me child… If you don’t want to call me that, then it’s fine. I don’t mind.”
Wanderer nodded slowly. “Okay, Tyrus. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Although I would be pleased to reveal my name, I am unable to do so for personal reasons. I hope you understand.”
“It’s fine. You’ve done so much for a stranger like me. I wouldn’t dare overstep my boundaries. Also, to answer your question, I think I’m around nine.”
“Hm… I estimate you have met the threshold. Beastfolk awaken at seven, while for humans it’s at eleven. Given your Demi-human status, we can infer that the age range falls within those parameters. Please lie on your back, Tyrus.”
He complied with the request and reclined on his straw bed. Wanderer shuffled over and sat right in front of Tyrus, looming over him. They turned their lips into a frown. “I would like to verify something before we begin. Have you encountered or sensed mana yet? The energy is as white as snow and evokes a tingling sensation all over the body.”
Tyrus shook his head. Never has he felt mana. Until now, he had not been acquainted with the term. His knowledge was extremely limited to that sort of topic. He was a juvenile who lacked a formal education and had been solitary for as long as he could recall. Regarding that, it’s a wonder he survived for so long by himself. His past was a complete mystery to him, yet he didn’t dwell on it too much.
“It’s important that I inform you that the procedure you are about to undergo may cause significant discomfort, if not pain. Typically, those who are blessed would naturally perceive mana. In your case, we will hasten the process. As a result, there is a possibility that your body may incur damage, and your chances of becoming a sorcerer may be diminished. Do you wish to continue or delay?”
Tyrus nodded at Wanderer’s warning. His decision was made upon the discovery of his potential. No amount of persuasion could sway him. “I want to start as soon as possible. I’m ready, Wanderer.”
Without being told twice, the figure lowered their arm and placed a palm on Tyrus’ chest. The room gradually fell silent, and Tyrus could only discern external sounds as he kept his eyes closed. The walls reverberated with the sound of leaves whistling in the faint breeze and birds crying out from the tops of trees. He could even hear Wanderer’s breathing, one that was calm and rhythmic. After a few moments had passed, Tyrus felt a numbing pain in his heart. That feeling soon turned into a pinch, and then one akin to a slap on the cheek. His fingers trembled, and he clenched his jaw.
He felt his own skin heat up as the bumping of his heart increased. Some parts of his tunic had even felt damp. Besides the discomfort and agony, he sensed something different. He experienced a strange power taking over his body. A blazing pain that he had never felt before hit his chest. Tyrus wished to plead with Wanderer to halt, feeling he had made a terrible error that made him want to cry. Though he wanted to yield, he bit his tongue in retaliation. He promised them he was ready- that he would commit to whatever was necessary.
Shaking away negativity, he redirected his thoughts to something else. The benefits of learning magic were on his mind. If he became proficient enough, he’d be able to earn sil from hunting beasts. With enough money, he’d be able to purchase his own fresh goods without worrying whether it’d make him sick. The sweet, tantalizing taste of fortune was on the tip of his tongue, and he wouldn’t let some pain deter him.
Tyrus tried to think of more positive thoughts, but the pain was too much for him. It had spread all throughout his body. He felt himself losing consciousness- briefly fearing death before becoming a sorcerer. Just as he was about to pass out, a reassuring voice called out to him.
“You can open your eyes now, Tyrus.”
Immediately, his eyes flung open, and he sat upright, clamping his chest. Tears streamed down the corners of his eyes, and black spots danced along the edges. When he glanced up, a breathtaking sight befell him. Surrounding Wanderer were a pillar of white particles as blinding as peering into the sun.
To save himself from becoming blind, Tyrus looked away. The burning sensation in his chest subsided, and it was replaced with a soothing sensation that poured through his veins. Amidst all of that, a new feeling had crept into his body, one that contained a power he had felt before.
“The fact that you turned away your gaze shows that you see the mana revolving around me. Congratulations, Tyrus. You may now begin your journey as a sorcerer.”
Tyrus would love to jump up with glee and thank the figure profusely, but a splitting headache had prohibited him from moving. Unable to bear it any longer, he collapsed onto the straw bed as his eyelids became heavy. The last thing he saw was the smiling face of Wanderer, and gentle skin caressing his forehead
