Chapter 2: Commonality

Sitting in the dawn of the glade Schoukannaderou held a handful of berries cupped in her hand. Having attracted the Mirla and some of the other small mammals that made that part of Teteoria their home she fed them from what she had foraged from the area. Never would she tell anyone what she was doing but having a soft spot for the wild life she gracefully sat in the morning dew of the grass simply soaking in the moment.

Gazing up grabbing another fistful of food for the animals from a basket she frowned as they gravitated towards something else. Glancing back over her shoulder she took notice of the Izairan boy, the very same one that she witnessed yesterday during their exams. In his hands was a bounty of seeds that the wildlife took kindly to.

“They really like bi'ixre nuts.” He quietly spoke. His slim sky coloured face like the eye of a hurricane, there was a certain wisdom behind his gaze.

Schoukannaderou stood from her place perplexed by the stranger. His messy crimson hair and the lime horns on top of his head bright against his white robes. Not making eye contact with her he continued letting the large creature eat from his palms. She didn't dare move further not wanting to startle anything.

Without her prompt once everything in his hands was emptied he gently walked over, his bright gold eyes almost shimmering in the fine rays of light. “Schoukannaderou right?”

“Yes. I don't believe we've met.” She shyly replied.

“Oh, no, we haven't. I'm Zerahno, Zerahno Ishrinai.” He warmly greeted giving her a bow.

“You're from Izairo right?”

“I am, but I don't really remember much of the realm, I moved to Teteoria when I was little.”

“Hmm. I see.” She fell silent just soaking in the sight of the boy, a pack of birds going after her basket. Not bothered by them helping themselves Schoukannaderou let them pick at the berries.

“You know, you're a lot different from the bulk of Teteorians I've met. Don't most of them have white hair? You're the only one I've seen with black stripes too.” Zerahno wistfully pointed out.

“My grandfather was from Izairo, hence the hair.”

“Do you speak any Izairan?” He confidently asked her swapping languages on the fly.

She cracked a smirk. “I'm fluent, my mother speaks it frequently at home. My Ja'Mirjrah doesn't speak Teteorian along with most of that side of the family so it comes in handy on occasion.” Schoukannaderou revealed talking to him understanding fully what he had inquired about. That elicited a laugh from the boy who took high interest in her.

“Ha! I thought there was something different about you!” He boasted.

“Pfft, not like my mainra gave that away!”

“That was amazing what you did yesterday! I wish I could that!”

“Maybe sometime I could teach you.”

Zerahno just smiled from ear to ear at her. “That would be super cool. I'd really enjoy that but you know what Schoukannaderou-”

“-Call me Schou.”

“-Alright Schou, I think I could teach you something in return. How about it?” He cheekily asked, the girl warming up already to him.

“And what do you think you could teach me Zerahno?” She snorted folded her arms with her own joyous grin. He gave her a wink and with a cutesy wave of his finger he let out another short laugh.

“Oh you'd be surprised what I know. I can tell you anything about the herbs or the wildlife here. Teteoria is full of really neat things.”

“Really? I would've never have guessed.” She sarcastically replied.

He got right up to her side cupping one shoulder with his hand and the other flicked up pointing to something. “You see that black and yellow bird straight ahead on that tree over there.” She gave a nod, her eyes landing on the small round bird happily perched on a thin branch about two hundred metres out. “They're not predatory animals but if there's a fresh carcass around they'll pick off the meat and eat that instead of the normal seeds and berries they munch on.”

“Huh. Neat, so what about that one over there? What can you tell me about that bird?” She slyly said pointing to a larger black bird with a long beak that was perched on a fallen log about the same distance out as the other one.

“That's an eshramn, originally from the realm of Feiy they were brought here into Teteoria to cull the rats three thousand years ago after several hard years of farmers losing their crops. They're quite intelligent, not even the wyverns really bother them.” Zerahno explained. He let go of her arm and walked out a few paces getting slightly closer admiring the bird.

“Cool.”

“You think so?”

“Yeah, maybe you do have something to teach me after all.” She teased.

Zerahno blushed, his white stripes becoming slightly pinkish. “Thinking of teaching, we should head back to the Amphrai before we're late.”

“That's not a bad idea, plus I'm sure the headmistresses will inform us of whether or not we passed the entrance exam.” Schoukannaderou agreed.

Fetching the basket the two made their way back without a second thought. Climbing over the low grade hill and through a patch of forest back to the grounds just behind the Amphrai, that's when they split ways.

Slipping back into her quarters Schoukannaderou grabbed some supplies, stuffing the pens and the parchment into the small bag she had stuffed into the bottom of the larger one she left once again. Vaguely remembering where the lecture hall on the far side of the building she managed to get there in the nick of time. A slim bearded man had greeted the students as half of them sat sleepily in their chairs.

Noticing Zerahno she decided to plant herself in a chair across from him. Her sister was the last person to show up as she sheepishly went and sat down on Schoukannaderou's other side. The professor giving her a stern disapproving expression.

“Is this everyone?” He asked manually counting the dozen of them in his head.

“Yes, I heard there's already been four people sent home.” One girl answered for him.

“That is correct. As everyone knows we're here to train one sole person to take on the role of Kiaijtreah but anyone who doesn't get chosen for that role is also considered to become a La'virxe – one of Talimyn's great helpers to keep order within the realms. These individuals are of high talents, typically stronger than the average Demyra, they're sought after by the layfolk for guidance but also protection. Talimyn and her guardians aren't able to be everywhere at once so it's everyone's job to lend a hand when we can.” The older man explained to the children.

Most appeared excited to hear they'd still be able to help the goddess and her allies save for Schoukannaderou. She didn't know how she'd feel about settling for less than what she dreamed of. Her thoughts had always been with her at the top, she didn't know if she could necessarily handle being shuffled off into a lesser role. The only thing that nipped at her was to buckle down into her studies and rise above the odds. Already with her wealth of knowledge at her young age she would soak in as much as she could.

The professor handed out paper assessments with their scores from the previous days elixir making. Handing out Vira her paper he cracked a smile, the Teteorian man much more pleased than he previously appeared. “I'd like to let you know Vira that you received the highest grade out of all of your colleagues, all five of the elixirs you made performed perfectly. I'd say you have quite the potential there young miss.”

Taking the sheet from him she glanced over the Teteorian characters, her face bright with a sudden embarrassment from having all eyes on her. “Thank you sir, I'll try my best.”

“Excellent.”

Turning back and walking to the front of the room, all of the children held their eyes onto the green robed man. He started off describing some of the properties of the local flora as he scribbled the notes onto the wall behind him. The slate grey wall being highlighted by his simple illumination spell as his fingertips left behind bright almost glowing characters. The lot of them copying down his notes, Vira added her own details in the side margin of the parchment. Her writing pristine compared to either Schoukannaderou or Zerahno.

After her lectures for the day Schoukannaderou went down to the cafeteria, she had almost fallen asleep during the last hour finding herself bored. Getting in line for her food once again the same rowdy boys were behind her as the first day, she tried her best to ignore them horsing around but one bumped her knocking the bowl of soup over her hands and onto the ground. She let out a yelp as the hot liquid burned her skin, the two taller brutish boys turned to her abruptly.

Without thinking she blasted the two with a bolt of malice, one managed to dodge her attack while the other took the brunt skidding into the marble tiles on the floor. Her blood boiling as she slammed the tray onto the closest table startling the three girls that were sat eating. The boy gasped for air laying flat on his back, his friend – the bigger of the two – puffed up his chest ready to fight the woman.

“What the vei'jresh do you think you're doing?!” He bawled. Schoukannaderou with the malice surging in her hands held her two palms up face height boldly stepped forward.

“Bump me again – just try me!” She threatened, her two eyes nailed onto his violet ones.

“You bumped into me!” The older boy snapped back.

A scramble of Demyra came to his friend's aid, including Vira, she quaintly dipped down casting a healing spell reversing the damage that her sister had done. Schoukannaderou fumed, the anger very apparent in her face.

“I did not! Your clumsy vensha bumped into me and knocked my food onto the floor!”

The teen let out a cry sending a jolt of lighting to the small girl, not taking kindly to his antics she dashed for him dispelling his mainra and landed a hit squarely onto his diaphragm. He screamed, the overbearing pain proving to be too much to handle as she pressed harder ensuring his silence. His voice cut out only to be replaced by blood bubbling up from his throat, he hacked up the red substance onto Schoukannaderou as she pushed him backwards. He fell limp to the floor convulsing.

A handful of Demyra attempted to heal him before Emphria stormed into the room from the other side. Her eyes glared at Schoukannaderou, down to the boy on the floor and back to the girl before dipping down and giving the others a helping hand.

“Schoukannaderou to my office – now!” She commanded at her.

“-But he started it!” She protested.

“Out. Now.” Emphria pointed to the doorway.

Rolling her eyes she reluctantly obeyed. Departing the room she felt a lump of rage in her belly, she didn't even get the chance to have dinner. Her hunger still very much palatable.

Zerahno approached Emphria timidly. “Ah, headmistress try not to be so hard on her... I'm sure she didn't mean to react the way she did.” He nervously told her.

“Why? Did you see what happened?”

“I... I did. It really wasn't her fault, or at least not initially.”

“And what do you mean by that?” Emphria soured, she wasn't too keen to give any leeway after Schoukannaderou's display of power almost killing someone.

“Schou was just trying to get her dinner and both Kirjen and Blanta were fooling around, they bumped her soup out of her hands. She got a little mad.” He tried to explain to her eyeing the mess on the floor. Emphria gazed upon what he was referring to and let out a long sigh. She didn't want to admit that what he said made sense.

“Kirjen. Blanta. You two are also coming with me to my office.” She sternly barked at the two boys.

“You've got to be kidding me!? She almost killed me!” Kirjen refuted, the hot headed boy with his short white hair ready to lose his cool once again.

“Look don't argue with her, do you want to be expelled second day of lectures?” Blanta tried to calm him, he was the slightly slimmer man out of the two. The other boy gave Zerahno a death glare and then his friend before departing.

The two orange robed boys shuffled off out of the room. Emphria waved her hand cleaning up the yellow coloured soup on the ground, with a shake of her head she too left. The cafeteria now nothing but hushed whispers, Zerahno stood feeling guilty for his new found friend, he wished he could've done more for her.

Emphria briskly walked into her office, Schoukannaderou with her arms folded glaring at Kirjen with him returning the same look. Blanta just meekly stood on the other side of the boy appearing out of place. She shut the door loudly catching their attention.

“I don't want to see another display of violence in this institution again. Not from either of you. Do I make myself clear?” She coldly demanded.

“There won't be one if this virnai'xre doesn't try to kill me again.” Kirjen seethed. The man a good head over Schoukannaderou.

“Kirjen, c'mon man, calm down.” Blanta tried to diffuse his anger to no avail.

“You will behave yourself or I'll send you home at first light tomorrow.” Emphria bitterly said, the boy practically face height to her. His scowl on his deep grey skin tightening the crimson stripes on his rough cheeks. The older woman not breaking her hard stare on his rectangular face.

“Fine. But I mean what I said.”

“I meant what I said too, that goes for all of you.” Emphria snapped her head towards Schoukannaderou. “I don't want to see another display of you using your mainra on another student either Van'ra-je.”

“I can't promise that, I'll defend myself if needed.” She flatly replied. The older woman pursed her lips together holding great displeasure in her expression.

“And Blanta, if I catch you and Kirjen shagging around again there'll be harsh consequences. Understood?”

A strike of fear in his green eyes, he gave her a half nervous nod. “Yes mistress. Understood. It won't happen again.”

“Good. I'll let the three of you off with a warning, next strike I will be docking grades. Talimyn doesn't need a bunch of rowdy fools and neither do I. The three of you are dismissed.”

Emphria swung open the door, she was absolutely not impressed with either of them. Schoukannaderou was the first to shuffle past the two boys and sped walked back to the cafeteria hoping to resume her mission on getting something to eat. Ignoring the taunting from Kirjen she fled.

By the time she had gotten back most of the students had cleared out save for a small handful which included her sister. Sitting down next to Vira she was able to breathe a sigh of relief. The hot soup delicious just like any of the other meals she had so far.

“Are you alright Schou?” She asked her concerned. The smaller girl just gave her a nod as she chewed on the bread roll savouring the peace and quiet. “You had me worried there for a second.”

Downing the rest of the soup and starting to chomp into the fruit Schoukannaderou was beginning to feel a little better. “She didn't punish us, just left us with a warning to 'not do it again'.” She mocked.

“Ahah. That's good to hear, but still, try to not be so reactionary – that temper of yours is going to get you in a lot of trouble if you let it.” Vira laughed off.

“I know, even Vrija said I should work on it.” She grumbled. Taking a moment to glance about she frowned. “Hey, what happened to Zerahno?”

“Oh you mean the Izairan guy?”

“Yeah.”

“He said he was going to head back to the dorms for the night, he seemed pretty upset.”

“Hmm.”

◆

Zerahno was getting himself ready to wind down for the night in the common lavatory just down the hall from his quarters. Brushing his teeth he was the only one in the room at the moment but that quickly was changed as he could hear a set of heavy footsteps enter from the one and only door. Looking up in the mirror he saw the face of Kirjen who appeared more furious than naught.

Straightening up the slightly older boy flipped him around and hauled him off the floor by the scruff of his robes. “I saw what you did earlier for your cute little girlfriend, you think you're funny Zerahno? You think it's wise to play with fire?” He gritted through his teeth, taunting the smaller figure. Pinning him up against the wall he loomed closer.

“I just wanted to be honest with the headmistress about what happened... someone had to set the record straight.” He sweated.

Kirjen tilted his head slightly to the left narrowing his eyes. “Is that right? If I didn't know any better I'd say you were trying to score some good boy points with Van'ra-je.” He grimaced.

“Sh-She's just a friend, that's it! I swear it was nothing more than that!” The younger boy squeaked being shoved further up the wall until he was eye level with other teen. His two feet dangling trying to find the floor. His thin blue hands holding onto his forearms, claws digging in hoping he'd release him soon.

“Maybe I should see how loud you can squeal just for fun.” He darkly chuckled.

“No, please! I'm good! I've had enough excitement for one day!” The small man practically paralyzed in fear. Kirjen's hot breath on his face made him want to disappear.

“I don't think you have Zerahno.” He leaned in licking the underside of his chin, every inch of Zerahno squirming in disgust. The older boy's tail fishing for the lip of his pants.

Blanta slipped into the space frowning at his friend having the smaller man held captive. “What the ilasjt are you doing?” He scowled.

“What does it look like I'm doing?” He laughed trying to haul down Zerahno's pants without care.

“Let go of him. Emphria already bitched at you earlier for causing havoc, do you really want to be sent home that bad?” He said gripping his shoulder flipping Kirjen to face him.

Zerahno was dropped by the man, without even thinking twice about it he scrambled out of there not even caring about his toiletries – he'd fetch them in the morning. Hearing the two argue he tried to put everything out of his mind having narrowly missed becoming another buried statistic. Slipping into the dark of his room the other first year boy he shared his space with was no where to be seen. He breathed a sigh of relief locking the door.

Chapter 1: Invitation

Lost in her world with her nose into another book the young girl was startled by a loud knock at her door. Her two different coloured eyes – one a calm friendly blue and the other a yellow cats eye – landed onto the wooden structure on the other side of the room. Hearing a muffled voice beyond calling out to her, she removed herself from her cross legged position on her bed. Stumbling over the stacks of books, notes and other assorted papers she made her way to the person.

“Schou, are you in there?” Someone laughed from the other side of the door.

“I am, just give me a sec.” She answered, her robes almost too big for her.

With the book in hand she unlocked the door and swung it open for the person. The serene face of the woman greeted her with a bright smile, an envelope in her hands.

“Look what arrived for you.” She handed the round faced girl the envelope with a bright violet wax seal on the back of it. Schoukannaderou slapped down the book onto the square table just inside the door in exchange of what the woman held.

“Vrija, are you sure this is for me?” She hesitantly asked turning about the object, her eyes on the wax seal.

She gave her a nod, the woman very much resembling the girl. Her round face holding much warmth as her eyes watched her fumble with opening the paper. Schoukannaderou's bangs pinned back out of her face with two bobby pins allowing a full view of her subtle expressions as the serious child hauled out the thick letter. Her eyes scanning the pages as she absentmindedly placed the envelope on top of the book she had indulged herself in earlier.

“So, are you excited?” The older woman with her wavy beet coloured hair beamed.

Quaintly a smile was returned from Schoukannaderou, she gave her a firm nod flashing a half toothy grin. “Very.”

“I figured you would be. Me and your father can help you get your bags packed up if you want.”

She shook her head. “I can do it, you don't need to help.”

“Are you sure?” She laughed. “You're not going to forget anything are you?”

“Bah, no. Do I look like I'd forget something?” She snorted.

“Ahahah, okay. I'll let you get to it then.” The tall figure wisely nod. “Just when you're done come downstairs for dinner, I don't want your food going cold again.” She prompted, her yellow eyes comforting.

“Alright.” Schoukannaderou answered, being left by herself she retreated back to her room. The wooden house alive with the sounds of two other people downstairs, ignoring the chatter she could hear through the floor she was deeply involved in her task. Meticulously she went down her mental checklist.

Her pack filled with the essentials and anything else she could think of, taking a breather she gazed out the window at the bustling valley town that snaked along side the river that ran straight through the mountain pass. The thought of the future in her hands lead to a flurry of speculation that was to come, Schoukannaderou was more than delighted to start working towards a series of plans that she had formulated in her mind unbeknownst to anyone else.

The letter remained next to her pack on her bed as she made a firm attempt to clean the room. The smell of a good home cooked meal filling the house made her mouth water, having completely forgotten about her hunger she was snapped back into reality as her stomach grumbled loudly. Deciding she return to straightening up her space once she was fed she left the sanctuary of her room for now.

Down the stairs and rounding to corner to the dinning room her family sat ready to chomp into their nightly meal as they all sat around the low table. There was one firm cushion stool left open for her next to the giddy face of her older sister. Silently she planted herself next to the other girl without saying a thing, the feast of Mirla ribs and sauteed veggies more tempting than conversation.

“Schou did you get your letter too?” The two eyes – one a deep ocean blue and the other a dark violet of her sister gazed at her. Her thin face barely able to contain her joy as her black stripes curled around her cheeks.

“I did. Why? Did you?” She asked between grasping up the food and plopping it down onto her plate with the utensils provided in each of the bowls in the middle of the table. Her parents devouring their meals just listening to the two girls converse without interruption.

“Yep, you know what that means. You're going to have to beat me in order to become the Kiaijtreah!” She playfully sneered giving her sister a love tap. Schoukannaderou just raised her brow at that action.

“That's if you can harness your mainra without destroying anything Viranjirxe.” Schoukannaderou snorted chomping into her ribs. Her sister just rolled her eyes in response.

“You know you'll have to socialize if you become the Kiaijtreah, you can't lock yourself in your chambers and be a hermit forever.” Vira threw back. Narrowing her eyes on the other girl she took another bite of her food, her sister and her crimson straight hair tied back slurping up her veggies loudly in protest of Schoukannaderou and her disapproval.

“I'm well aware of that. Talimyn is going to need someone reliable.”

“Yup.”

“And that means she's also going to need someone who isn't going to cower when the going gets tough.” She jabbed with a cocky half smirk on her face taking another bite of her food.

“Are you saying I'm a coward Schoukannaderou?!” Vira locked eyes with her sister, the spark of anger between the two clearly felt.

“-Girls.” The husky man at the table tried to quiet the two.

“You wouldn't think that if it wasn't true.” The younger girl dropped.

“I am not a coward!” She barked back in protest.

“-Girls!”

“Who was it that had to come bail you out of that fight the other day?” Schoukannaderou reminded.

“I totally could've handled that myself!”

“Sure you-”

“-Hey! That's enough!” The white haired man's fist came down onto the table startling the other occupants. All eyes on him and his scowl. “finish your dinner, I don't want to hear any arguing from either of you.” He demanded.

Neither of the three women seated dared to say anything. Schoukannaderou and Vira just exchanged glares returning to their meals. It didn't take long for them to clue up and depart. Slinking back to her room Schoukannaderou was the first to leave, stopping into the bathroom to wash her face and hands she let out a sigh feeling somewhat relieved that she could continue with what she had been involved with earlier.

Back into the silence of her personal space she unwound. Rereading the contents of the letter again she couldn't help but feel a sense of giddiness. Being sent off to the Amphrai to train to be Teteoria's next Kiaijtreah was a dream of hers that she could only let play out in the deep recesses of her mind until now. Naturally she had heard of the legends of all the miracles that the Kiaijtreah was able make happen, the mere thought of her being the one to change the world into something better was tickling her.

Schoukannaderou ended up passing out late that night having herself lost into the book she was reading earlier. Hoping to finish it before she left on her trip she did just that. Two days later on the morning of her departure she had heavy set bags under her eyes as she emerged fully dressed and packed from her room. Moseying downstairs Vira was already cluing up with breakfast, the perky girl was bouncing ready to go.

“Morning Schou.” Her father greeted handing her the fried meat strips, eggs and a piece of fruit on a plate. Dropping her bag in the doorway she yawned taking the food from him, his demeanour much more pleasant than the other evening now that no one had caused a ruckus.

“Thanks.”

Sitting down at the table she slowly ate trying to come to life. Groggily she munched on the food ignoring everyone else. Her mother handed her a cup of water, without question she took it from her almost forgetting about how thirsty she was. Downing the cup in record time she returned to her food. Vira buzzing about pulling on her travelling coat and her boots in the background.

“Schou are you coming?” The slightly taller girl prompted her as she put the last morsel of food in her mouth.

“Yes, just give me a minute. I still need to go wash up.” Schoukannaderou let out another yawn. Reminiscing about the strange dream she had during her small amount of sleep she departed from the table. Back into the bathroom hovering over the wash basin she gazed at herself in the mirror, her eyes tracing her black stripes against her smoky complexion on her cheeks she washed the sleep from her face.

Hearing her sister calling out once again to hurry up she just sighed not particularly wanting to be prompted so soon. Not even awake she grumbled something to herself as before leaving the small cramped room and back out into the main hallway. Her mother offering her the coat in her hands, Schoukannaderou calmly took it from her slipping it over her shoulders. Vira saying something taunting that she completely ignored, doing a complete brain dump of her words she effectively tuned her out.

Out in the yard her parents followed the two with their heavy sacs beyond the house. The daylight just cropping over the horizon illuminating the handful of trees at the edge of their property by the log fence. Exchanging goodbyes, everything was a blur, the biggest thing taking up Schoukannaderou's attention was the portal her mother opened with a flick of her hand. The green pastures and the building that she could only have guessed was the Amphrai was the only thing to be seen through the distortion.

Giving each of her parents a hug after Vira did, the two set off through the swirling mass. Waving back at the two figures on the other side the portal snapped shut. Transfixed on the massive building over a mile out in the distance the two girls jittery at the welcomed change.

“You think we'll meet Talimyn?” Vira bounced.

Schoukannaderou glanced at her seriously. “Talimyn? Why would we? It doesn't make sense for her to be here not when she's so busy taking care of the realms.” She answered. The two walking side by side across the tall grass.

“But Schou! Think about it, legends say the Kiaijtreah has her power – she probably hand chooses the next one right? And I mean Teteoria does need a new one since the last one we had died!”

“It's possible but I'm sure we'll find out soon enough.” She solemnly told her.

“What else do you think they have at the Amphrai? You think we'll make some nice friends? Maybe even meet a cute boy or two?” Vira beamed, she was absolutely enthralled with the idea of what they'd find.

Blinking slowly at her sister with a half furrowed brow Schoukannaderou held a tense expression. “Boys? Why would I care about that?” She bluntly inquired.

“Aww c'mon Schou – surely you've thought about it! I mean you're eleven, haven't you started dating anyone?” The other girl pried, she gently shook her head.

“No. And I don't care to. Boys are gross.”

“Vrija said she started dating when she was my age.”

“Yes, your age – not mine.” Schoukannaderou corrected.

“Oh please, it's a matter of what? Nineteen months between us?”

“And that's like two years, more than enough difference.”

“Hranjae even gave me an early birthday gift since I'll be thirteen in twelve days and I won't be home to celebrate.” Vira beamed a toothy grin as they walked. The Amphrai getting closer.

Schoukannaderou adjusted her pack. “I suspected he would. He doesn't typically forget about our birthdays.” She plainly said.

Vira laughed. “No, not like you.”

“I didn't mean to.” She said defensively, her sister absolutely not letting her live it down.

“I think you need to be more mindful of the time and date Schoukannaderou, maybe of other people outside of yourself.” She teased purposely not using the nickname her family gave her just to send the point home a little further. An eye roll and a huff was the only reaction Schoukannaderou had for her as she picked up her pace.

Hopping onto the dirt road from out of the grassy field the two walked along, before them was a woman waiting at the entrance of the Amphrai. Knowing that she held some importance with her wistful expression in her ordinate set of robes the highly decorated figure approached. Schoukannaderou studying the woman with her aqua gaze in her slender face, her deep navy coloured dreadlocks held tight by a band out of her face save for a couple of strands that held an assortment of beads that brushed against her cheeks.

“Head mistress, it's a pleasure to finally meet you.” Vira bowed at the bottom of the steps, smoothly she smiled.

“You must be Viranjirxe Van'ra.” She gracefully walked down, her attention turning to the foggy figure of Schoukannaderou as she approached. “And you are Schoukannaderou, her younger sister are you not?”

“I am.” She replied locking eyes with the woman. The strange figure much paler than most of the other people of the realm, having decent knowledge of what lay beyond the realm she made the assumption of the woman being of Fantaesian descent with her white complexion.

“It's a gift to meet the two of you. Welcome to the Amphrai, I'm Emphria.” She bowed back at the two girls. Vira could hardly contain herself while Schoukannaderou kept an intense appearance, there was something about the woman that tickled the back of her thoughts but she couldn't place it.

“Thank you so much mistress.” The older girl bowed again but this time a little deeper than the last.

“You're welcome, but please – this way.” Emphria gestured for the two girls to follow up the steps.

In absolute awe Vira did just that, how heavy her pack was not even on her mind as her eyes took in the sight of the grand archway above. The ordinate red wood of the building easily picked out of the lush landscape. Without any further prompting they straggled behind the woman up the steps and through the massive double doors depicting the dawn, the gold inlay in the dark stone bright. Even Schoukannaderou couldn't help but admire the fine architecture.

Inside was just as highly decorated as the outside, the lobby filled with incense perched on long gold stands. The sticks burning filled the air with a herbal scent as the three trekked through another set of doors, this time depicting the crescent moon.

“The two of you are the last of our pupils to arrive. Nonetheless I was expecting as such considering you both live in one of the farthest reaches of the realm.” Emphria began. “Schoukannaderou, you in particular are the youngest here, however just like your sister, I do believe you have quite the set of talents that I think we could hone given enough time.” The woman smiled from over her shoulder as they walked at a healthy pace down the long hallway, the black and white marble tiles beneath their feet adding quite the contrast to the smoky warmth by the light of the space.

“I'm glad you think that.” She quaintly replied as her sister gave her a cheesy smirk.

“Your parents also agreed on our decision on having you enrol this year instead of next year.”

Glancing beyond Emphria down towards the end of the hallway was another woman just as well dressed. Not saying anything about her the older woman stopped in front of a door half way down the long space.

“Are you going to give us a tour of the Amphrai?” Vira piped up.

“I'm going to show you to your quarters first.” She paused in partial thought. “However Schoukannaderou, I'm going to let Sharasha show you to yours.” Emphria made eye contact with the other figure at the end of the hall. Schoukannaderou too gazed upon her.

“Any reason behind that?” She questioned returning her sights to the older woman.

“Nothing dire I can assure you, but she's in charge of those that reside in the southern half of the building where your chambers are located so it's best she shows you herself.” Emphria assured the girl.

“Okay.”

Without further comment Schoukannaderou tore off from the two. Without a second thought she was savouring getting rid of her heavy pack and was eager to see exactly where she'd be able to drop it off to. Wanting to do nothing more than to relax in that very moment the bag on her shoulders was a nipping reminder of that very desire as she finished the walk down the hallway to the other woman.

“Miss Schoukannaderou Van'ra, looks like it's just you and me.” Sharasha greeted. “Here, let me take that for you.” She offered taking note of the young girls discomfort spite her silence.

“Thank the Myrr, that thing weighs a ton.” She sighed relieved handing over the bag which elicited a laugh out of the older, well built woman. Her dark overcoat cupping her smoky face with the high collar flaring out from her chest. The girl took note of her black hands, her skin tainted from underneath the several layers of heavy clothing. Shifting her eyesight back onto her face she noticed the black that marred her hands creeping up slightly from her throat, giving the friendly woman an almost damning appearance.

“No problem, I don't want you to be tuckered out before the entrance exam.” She beamed, her bright orange-red gaze peering down on her.

“Mmm. The letter mentioned briefly about that, however what exactly does this exam entail?” Schoukannaderou inquired.

“I'm not really supposed to tell you, but I will tell you that there's no written part.” The older woman revealed. The girl focused on the straight cut bangs of the older woman with her blinding white hair, it was almost like it's own light in the half lit space. Her dark tail curling behind her gently.

“It must be a test of skill then.”

“Something like that, but you'll have to wait and see. For now I'm going to show you to your quarters.” Sharasha smiled widely, the vibrant blue stripes on her cheeks curling up.

With a nod Schoukannaderou followed the slightly taller woman, the hypnotic sway of her long straight hair held tight into a high set pony tail highlighted by the sunlight pouring in through the long windows that lined the hall that lead down to the southern wing. The Teteorian woman not saying much on their journey to the far end of the building.

Down another long hall Sharasha opened up a single door at the end with a key, within was two beds on opposite walls. Schoukannaderou glanced about at the long window in across from her and the older woman, the far off mountains with their lush forest more than serene. Below the long window was a hardwood desk that could've easily sat four people if needed although there was only two chairs.

“You'll be here by yourself for at least the first couple of semesters, I hope you don't mind.” She said placing her bag upon the desk leaning it up against the glass.

“Not at all. I enjoy the solitude.”

“Perfect, well the dresser at the foot of the bed is all yours to use along with the cabinet here against the wall for any of your personal belongings.” Sharasha gestured to the furniture that the young woman took great interest in. The cabinet next to the entrance of the room with it's tall doors held plenty of space for anything large that she might acquire.

“Thanks, I'm sure I'll make good use out of it.”

“Excellent, you can unpack later but for now I'm going to show you around. You've got a big day tomorrow bright and early, I can't have you getting lost.”

“Fair.”

Sharasha handed her the key to the room, giving her a firm nod the two left after locking the room back up. Getting to witness the Amphrai in all of it's glory Schoukannaderou felt a fleeting sense of apprehension, everything the other woman was telling her proved to be quite the chunk of information to take in. Thankfully there was signs posted down every hall and main branch of the complex to help guide anyone who needed it.

Showing her around to the living quarters, the cafeteria, the lecture halls, the arena, and even the headmaster's office where she could always turn to if she needed help from either Sharasha or Emphria, Schoukannaderou was partially put at ease. The last thing for her to be shown was the grounds, as dusk was rolling in she gazed about at the tree line, spying the Mirla in the thicket she felt her heart skip. How graceful they appeared frolicking about in the last rays of light, seldom did she see them back home with her house nestled far from their breeding grounds.

“Aren't they lovely?” Sharasha asked her.

“Yes, I've never seen them out in the wild like this.” The girl reminisced.

“We get visited by a lot of different animals here being the only inhabited place for miles.”

“Why build this place in the middle of nowhere?”

“It's so we can practice our crafts in peace, none of us would want our mainra getting out of hand and hurting anyone else.”

Schoukannaderou glanced up at Sharasha with a puzzled expression, her curiosity more than piqued. “That's a funny thing to say, what would we be casting that other Demyra would be cautionary of?”

“I'm sure you're well aware that not every person that becomes the Kiaijtreah has holy mainra, just like Talimyn herself and even you, there's Demyra that take upon that roll that have dark oriented mainra that could potentially be dangerous. Both myself and Emphria are just here to help awaken the full extent of ones abilities so they can harness the Tayrhn's gift.” She explained folding her arms lightly against her small chest.

“Talimyn's gift? What is her gift?”

The older woman cracked a soft expression. “Only the Kiaijtreah is allowed to know that. I'm forbidden to tell you, Talimyn's orders I'm afraid.”

“That seems stupid, how would someone know if they can harness it if they're not allowed to know what it is?” The crimson haired girl scoffed.

“Ah Schoukannaderou, you'll just have to find out for yourself. I'm sure if you're as bold as your thoughts you'll have no trouble.” Sharasha laughed off finding much amusement in the girl. Schoukannaderou falling silent just went back to watching the mirla, she didn't particularly like being barred off from the information.

Without saying a word she knew she'd dig around to see what she could find. The role of legend, being hand chosen to be Teteoria's sole protector was something that she desired more than any other and the young girl would be damned if anyone or anything was going to stop her. It wasn't long before before both of them retreated inside for the night, her thoughts still aflutter with whatever could the two headmistresses be hiding that was only for the Kiaijtreah themselves.

Returning to the cafeteria in the sea of tables Schoukannaderou lined up to grab her dinner with a slew of older kids. Keeping to herself quietly she ignored the two boys having rowdy conversation behind her as the kitchen chefs handed out the food. The delicious roast and mashed spuds making her stomach rumble. After being handed a canteen of water with her meal she shuffled off out into the open trying to find the quietest corner of the room until Vira waved at her.

“Hey Schou! Come sit!” She bawled out, meekly she came and joined, not entirely sure why but she did. Planting herself next to her sibling she sat across from two other girls, one smaller than her albeit a good bit older and the other a plump round faced child. “This is Anjri and Xaescho, they're my roommates.” Vira bounced introducing the two, they took kindly to being acquainted with her giving a friendly wave. “Are you sharing your quarters with anyone Schou?” She poked stuffing a chunk of meat into her mouth.

“No and I'm okay with that.” She said relieved taking in the sight of the room, about three hundred children sat at their tables around her.

Focusing on her food and the nipping edge of hunger Schoukannaderou tuned out her sister and her small talk, the ramblings of her excitement just another layer of noise. Vira and her two new friends making boisterous claims that they could all become the Kiaijtreah. Closing her eyes for a moment as she chewed the last bit of her roast Schoukannaderou's two pointed ears perked, concentrating on the power signatures of the other children there was only a handful that she could genuinely say she was concerned with.

“Schou do you think you'll become the Kiaijtreah? Or do you think I will?” Her older sister bummed breaking her concentration. The younger girl's eyes snapping onto her.

“Do you want me to be honest with you or do you want me lie?” She plainly asked.

“I want the truth.” Vira smugly returned.

“I will. I doubt anyone else in this room can do what I can.” Schoukannaderou bluntly answered.

“Pfft! Bah! As if you're the only one with fancy tricks!”

Holding up her usual stone expression a half cocky grin began to crawl up one side of her face. Schoukannaderou pushed her tray forward and hopped off the bench keeping eye contact with her sister. “Oh absolutely, but I'd bet that most don't have half the intelligence I do. You can have all the flashy mainra you want but if there's nothing in here-” She tapped her temple. “-then none of that matters.”

“Okay then you'll just have to prove that tomorrow morning at your entrance exam vrin'jee.”

“I will, goodnight Vira. I'm going to get my beauty rest early.” Schoukannaderou arrogantly winked at her snagging the canteen off the tray and fleeing the room.

Both of Vira's friends sat dumbfounded on what they just witnessed. Shaking her head watching the figure of Schoukannaderou disappear down the southern hall she sighed, that wasn't the first time she was borderline rude and she was positive it wouldn't be the last either. Vira only laughed at her sister and her antics having been far too used to her and her attitude.

◆

Having been awoken by the rising sun blasting in through the window Schoukannaderou jolted awake in the sea of books and scrolls that were spread out across the top of the desk. Having drooled over what she was reading she swiped her hand over the paper cleaning up the small mess. Forgetting about how askew her bobby pins were in her hair she grumbled getting up from her place. Yawning she moseyed over to the bed where she had tossed her bag the night before and hauled out a fresh set of robes.

Half dressed, a firm knock resounded from the door, she scrambled to answer it. Upon opening the door she came face to face with Sharasha.

“Ah you're awake, good morning.” She pleasantly beamed at the girl.

“I'm not late am I?”

“Goodness no, I just wanted to ensure you were up and had something to eat before heading off to the grounds for the first part of your exam.”

“When does the exam start?”

Sharasha hauled out a small golden pocket watch from her robes, she focused on watching the seconds hand tick for a moment. “You've got another hour before your time slot. If you're slightly late don't worry about it, we've got another dozen first years like yourself that have to do their exams this morning too.” She assured.

“Okay, I'll get dressed and I'll be out.”

“Very good, I'll see you outside when you're ready. It's a bit chilly this morning so I suggest wearing something warm.”

“'Kay.”

With that Schoukannaderou was left by herself. Shutting the door Sharasha left her alone, hearing the footsteps of the older woman fade and the remaining silence of the dorms she breathed a sigh of relief. Wondering what exactly this exam held she anxiously hauled on her robes. Inside of the cabinet was a mirror, taking notice of how overslept she appeared she gave her hair a quick fix. Swinging her overcoat onto her shoulders she yawned unsure if she even wanted food at that hour, she wasn't particularly hungry but figured a small something wouldn't hurt.

It wasn't long before she was hobbling along outside chewing the remainder of her eggs in her mouth. Seeing the gathering of thirty other kids and the two headmistresses she joined. Vira took notice of her as they watched a young Izairan boy – the only one out of the crowd of Teteorians – perform holy mainra with ease. He was in the middle of reviving one of the mirla when Schoukannaderou's sister whispered loudly to her.

“Are you nervous Schou?”

She shook her head, the beast springing back to life. Her eyes watching the sky coloured boy pet the long face of the creature. “No, we're just demonstrating our powers right?” She observed.

“Yes. I already showed them what I can do... I think you're one of the last people to go.”

Schoukannaderou didn't say anything only seeing the boy be replaced by another. Emphria giving him instructions on what to do, with a nod he understood the task at hand. Raising a hand up before slamming it into the ground the scrawny boy sent of wave cascading across the earth as the ground itself came to life. The dirt uprooting everything in its path causing havoc across the land as the destruction ripped across the surface.

The Mirla that the Izairan boy had revived bolted back towards the Amphrai, before it had the chance to really make any distance it went limp. Once again its life had been siphoned from it, Schoukannaderou almost felt sickly to her stomach watching the creature be used as a pawn in their game.

“Schoukannaderou, you're next.” Emphria announced ready to reverse the destruction.

“Alright. But wait – let me fix this.” She insisted. Hesitantly Emphria lowered her hand, she frowned curious of what the girl was going to do. Even Sharasha was keen to see what she was up to.

With a quick flick of her left Schoukannaderou reversed the spell the other boy had done to the mirla, the animal returning to a previous state before it's life was rudely ripped from it. Coming over to her the creature with it's large antlers gave a snort and then licked her across one of her cheeks affectionately. Giving it a pat on it's long snout she smiled, calmly it then strolled off across the glade.

With the attention of the other students on her now she turned back to torn earth, miles had been disturbed as the spell had fanned out from their position in the early hours of the morning. With a quick counterclockwise motion with her left hand everything begun to retract and restore itself. Without even breaking a sweat Schoukannaderou turned back to the crowd with her arms folded in her sleeves.

Emphria stood with her mouth slightly agape in utter bafflement. Sharasha cracked a grin. “It appears we have a time mainra user in our presence. As most of you know, time mainra is extremely rare – it is said only a handful are born every several millennia. There's been very few notable figures who've been able to conduct it, one such is the Tayhrn of legend herself.” She announced to them.

“Is there any other abilities you'd like to show us Schoukannaderou?” Emphria asked her.

The girl gave her a nod. “Yes, but I need another person to demonstrate it for you.” She quaintly replied.

“I'll volunteer so you can show us.” The pale woman confidently told her not particularly expecting anything else exciting. What else could she possibly be able to do that would be more jaw dropping than her time spell?

“Thanks.”

Emphria strode forward, the crimson haired girl giving her a nod. Slamming a palm into her gut an electrifying jolt ascended down her being. Sharasha tensed as her colleague's face went blank.

“I found out I could do this by accident.” Schoukannaderou told her as she stepped away from the other woman, her vacant eyes spoke volumes. Emphria turned back to the forest, with a flick of both of her hands a torrent of water erupted from the earth soaring into the sky as it gained mass. Sending the wave out across the grass and into the forest it drowned everything its path. “Without using too much of my mainra I'm able to take control of someone else and use their mainra at my will.”

Ending the spell manually with a snap of her fingers Emphria was released from her grip. The woman almost collapsing forward she grabbed her knees finding herself weak all of a sudden. Breathing harshly her eyes focusing on the drowned forest, she went pale at the thought of could've possibly caused the mess. Like before Schoukannaderou made another counterclockwise motion with her hand bringing everything back to an equilibrium as if nothing happened at all.

“That's... impressive.” Sharasha said unsure of what to think about the young woman's talents. “I don't think we need you to show us anything else. You're good.” She calmly dismissed her, Schoukannaderou ran back into the crowd glad to be out of the spotlight.

Standing next to her sister she folded her hands back into her sleeves breathing a sigh of relief. She was certain that she passed. Vira grinned at her, her sister excited for her as some of the other children could be heard chatting about her skills.

“She didn't even let you cast any malice, that's a shame. That's like your strongest mainra.” Vira chuckled.

“I'm sure they'll get to see it at some point.”

“They better!”

Schoukannaderou just laughed at her sister's enthusiasm. For now they were ushered back inside for the other portion of their exam. Emphria and Sharasha left them to some of the professors that stood inside the hallway waiting for them. Taking great concern Sharasha departed with the white woman, her dishevelled appearance concerning.

◆

Emphria slumped into her chair, her head throbbing as she closed her eyes in her office. The cluttered dusty room packed with books and scrolls of different sizes. Sharasha leaned against the desk sipping a cup of water.

“Are you going to be alright Emphria?” The slightly older woman asked her more than concerned watching.

“Yes I'll be fine.”

“Are you sure, I have seen you this worn out in a while.”

“Positive, I just need rest.”

Sharasha swallowed down another sip of water, her eyes focusing on the tapestry hanging on the wall next to the door of Talimyn. The woven mural depicting the goddess sealing the Ifalyn, the moment fuzzy in her mind, barely remembering the event that terrorized the realm several thousand years ago. Dropping into her thoughts she soaked in the image as a series of questions arose.

“Emphria... I don't suppose you think that girl is the one that's rumoured to have been forged by Talimyn herself do you?” She pondered, her eyes still on the tapestry.

“Who? Schoukannaderou Van'ra?”

“Yes.”

Sitting up straight in the wooden chair Emphria folded her fingers together under her chin. Her inquisitive gaze landing on the same mural of Talimyn that Sharasha was intrigued by. “Hmm, it's possible but that remains to be seen. The Tayrhn has tasked us in finding the Kiaijtreah – she said it would be an unlikely individual that would take upon the roll.” She quietly told her.

“She did. I remember that conversation, the premonitions she described almost scare me though.” Sharasha worried.

The younger woman chuckled nervously. “What part of them? Tourahn and his wrath or the very fact she has to depart us soon?”

“Probably the reason why she mentioned needing to seal herself away, you really think there'll be a calamity in the future that she'll have to pull out all the stops for?” She swallowed, her smoky face paler than normal.

“It's hard to say but Talimyn knows she cannot leave things to chance – she has this planned for a reason. I'm sure even Tourahn would help her in our hour of need if push comes to shove, however we cannot put our faith in her guardians at this moment either. Isontaro isn't present in this timeline and I'm not even sure the identity of her other guardian.” Emphria tried to put her mind at rest but the swirling torrent of worries was only highlighted by her words. Rubbing her temples she could feel her head throb.

“Neither am I, but I'm sure she knows what she's doing. She has to.” The foggy coloured woman removed herself from the desk and turned to her fully. The morning light lessening the worry on her cheeks.

“Either way for now, we cannot worry too much about it or we'll drive ourselves mad. Talimyn told us our number one priority is finding the Kiaijtreah, she trusts our judgment. Let's just stick with that.”

“Okay, but Emphria at least do me one favour, get some rest. You look terrible.” Sharasha insisted.

Emphria got up from her chair and gazed at the slightly taller woman. “I will.”

“I mean it, take care of your self. Don't go doing anything brash until you're back to a hundred percent.”

“Alright.”

“I'll see you in the morning.”