Prologue

 

Something disturbed the peace of heavens. All seemed quiet in the marble white castle. The wind blew softly the white curtains at the entrance. Underneath, thick dazing white clouds kept the castle afloat. Inside, a wide passage led the way to a room painted in puffy white. Behind the large window frames white filled the horizon. In the middle of the room was a huge bed covered in silk-white linen. A woman, black hair, porcelain skin and red lips, slept profoundly on one side of the bed. Beside her, a man with raven hair, green eyes and the same marble-like skin as the woman.

 

He wasn’t asleep. He stood on his elbows with a frown on his face. From time to time he rubbed his temples. He looked at the woman beside him for a moment and squinted his eyes. He repeated the same ritual for a few minutes. Then he suddenly stood up, went to the window and dived head down into the sea of white. The wind hurled around him as he fell faster and faster. A different kind of white started replacing the absolute white he had come from. Strands of black smoke, yellowish lights and occasional patches of glistening blue completed the view.

The distance got smaller by the minute. He was headed straight for a huge mountain of white. Just before he hit the ground he shifted his body upright and landed on the white plain. The frozen ice melted where his feet touched it. White arrows poured from the sky. The silhouette standing in the middle of it, white skin, white clothes, remained unnoticed.

 

He looked around: first left, then right. He closed his eyes, tilted his head to the left and touched his head with a frown. He walked through the narrow streets. A sharp sound reverberated through the storm. He got closer and closer to it. The wind blew even stronger inside the dark alley where it came from. At the end of it, there was someone huddled against the wall. Someone clothed in black with bluish hands. The shriek he had followed came from the persons arms. A thick white blanket covered the creature inside. He starred at it biting his lips and frowning. He turned around and headed for the alley’s exit. Suddenly, he went back to the noisy little creature. He moved the frozen hands clutching the edges of the blanket. He took the creature and wrapped his arms around it. It stopped crying. He picked inside. A small round face and a pair of black eyes starred back at him. He took the child and disappeared in the night. 

                                                               

                                                               ∞∞∞

 

“The Gods are not our masters. The Gods are our teachers and friends. They are our guardians.We are their disciples, the ones that make this land sacred.”

( Verse 12, Ch 1, Vattor Holy Book)

Chapter 1

Do you know that awful moment when you hear birds chirping in the morning. It’s like an annoying buzzing in your head. It’s nature’s version of an alarm clock. It’s not loud, but it’s definitely nerve-racking. So I did what I do every morning. I stood up, grabbed my pillow and through it as hard as I could against the innocent glass window.

-Shut up you damned birds!

-You’re gonna brake that window someday.

I turned around and looked at the blond Madonna brushing her hair on the opposite bed.

-Good, I said with a scowl. Maybe than I’ll hit a couple of them and they’ll stop coming here.

-You don’t really mean that, she said smiling softly. Besides, it’s not their fault you’re a sleepy head.

I look at her, my eyes made tiny.

-Whose side you’re on, Lia?

-Yours of course.

-Than let me sleep, I said laying back on my bed and covering my head with the blancket.

-If I let you do that you’ll be late for Miss Xander’s class.

I threw the blanket away and jumped upright. Anemona Xander wasn’t a teacher I wanted to cross. I already had one transgression too much on her list. I started digging in the mountain of mismatched clothes beside my bed.

-Where’s my shirt? I asked, my voice raised an octave.

-On the chair, Lia answered calmly.

-Where’s my skirt?

-Under the bed.

-Where did I put my tie?

-On the windowsill.

-Oh here’s my coat, I said picking up the crumbled piece of cloth.

I straightened the visible ripples with my right hand and put it on.

-I’m ready, I said happily.

Lia raised an eyebrow.

-Aren’t you forgetting something?

-Hmm. Damn, my backpack.

I looked around until I found it. I picked it up from the floor, whisked in the textbooks on the night stand and closed it.

Lia look at me for a second then sighted.

-Give me that, she said pointing at my backpack.

I silently obeyed. She grabbed it. Spilled its contents on the bed, took out some of them, placed them on my desk, dug underneath my bed and behind my trash bin for books I didn’t even know I’ve left there, placed it inside and then closed it. Then she came to me, fixed my tie and brushed my hair with her hand.

-Now you’re ready, she said. Let’s go.

I let a small grin slip on my face and followed.

 

                                       

 

Chapter 2

 I slowly began to wake up. It was quiet around me. My body was still numb. I tried to get up so I can see where I was but a sharp pain made me close them again. Obviously, the effects of the White Torture haven’t completely disappeared. I heard someone move closer, a warm hand touched my forehead and a voice asked:

-Are you alright?

-Yes, I think I will be… I answered after a few seconds. Where am I?

-At the infirmary. I brought you from the forest.

-Who are you?

-My name is Nem. That’s all you need to know for now. Don’t you think you should say thank you first?

-For what? I asked surprised. I kept trying to open my eyes so I can see his face but I got dizzy every single time.

-For saving you from the claws of your ‘friends’.

-That was you? Sorry I was otherwise preoccupied at the moment, but thank you.

-You’re welcome. Your friends are on the lobby. They are worried about you. I’ll let you be with them. Se you later, Vaira.

This time my eyes flicked wide open:

-How do you know my name?

And that was the first time that I actually saw Nem. A weird thought crossed my mind” I know him”. He looked somehow angelic: deep blue eyes, black hair, smooth, white skin, high build. He was in one word mesmerising. I think that for a moment I was caught with my mouth open.

-Your friends told me, he said smiling.

-Oh.

-I’ll let you rest.

He walked to the door and opened it. I could see Lia, Mirai and Shiel waiting out there. They looked dead worried so I shouted as loud as I could:

-I’m fine.

I probably shouldn’t have done that because the next second I felt a throbbing pain in my head, but their smiles made it worth the sacrifice. They rushed in and sat on my bed. Behind them I could see my saviour closing the door.

- I thought you were done for, Shiel said the second the door closed.

Lia pinched him and he squealed.

-Don’t even joke about it. I was terrified. God knows what could have happened to her if that guy hadn’t showed up.

-That’s true. It was so cool. He just sprang out of nowhere and took you in his arms. The Discipliners just immediately scattered when they saw how easily he repelled the white light.

- Then he carried you all the way here and told us to get the nurse, which hasn’t showed up yet, said Lia angry. Honestly, what if you were badly heart and no one was here to help you. It’s outrageous.

-I’m glad you’re fine, said Mirai holding my hand. I can’t believe they can be so cruel.

The door suddenly opened and the nurse finally appeared.

-What are you all doing here? She asked obviously surprised.

-My friend is not feelling well. Isn’t that why people come to the infirmary? asked Lia in obvious consternation.

-You again, Miss Garial. In what kind of trouble have you got yourself this time?

-It wasn’t her fault, Shiel jumped in, it was the Di…

Lia stomped on his foot and looked angrily at him. We all knew that no one would believe us. The Discipliners were like a ghost story until you actually saw them.

-Alright, let’s take a look at you. What’s wrong with you?

-My whole body is numb and I fill dizzy, I said angrily. To prove my point I tried to stand up just so I can get another round of paralyzing pain crossing through my head.

-Ok, this time you’re really sick. I’ll patch you up in a few seconds. As for you…

She turned around and looked at the others.

-You need to go to the main hall. The headmaster has called all the students there for a General Gathering.

-But… Lia tried to protest.

-Nothing. I’ll help Miss Garial here get back on her feet and I’ll bring her myself there. Now go on, or you’ll be late and you’ll get detention.

They unwillingly started to walk toward the door with the nurse behind them. She pushed them out of the room. Before she closed the door I could see Shiel winking to me, Lia sent me a flying kiss and Mirai smiled sweetly.

18 June 2011 

 

                                                             ***

 

 I had to admit. Nurse Yvonne’s treatment worked like a charm (Which is probably what it was). I already felt much better. After she finished treating me she ushered me out of the room and rushed me towards the auditorium. When we got there the hall was full. The entire school seemed to be there. I saw Shiel waving to me from the far corner; the others were with him as well. I hurried up towards them. While making my way through the crowd I noticed Hair’s surprised look. I think she expected me to be disabled for life by now. I reached my friends and Mirai hugged me tightly. I responded her embrace with equal enthusiasm to show her that I was fine.

-So, why did they make us come all the way here?

-You know how it is… said Shiel grinning. The Headmaster just summons us when he thinks he’s thought about something brilliant and wants to enlighten us too.

-I heard that the new Supervisor is coming today, said Lia a little bit too enthusiastic. They are probably going to introduce him to us.

- How do you know is a man? I asked suspiciously.

-I don’t. But I have a hunch that we already met him.

-You mean the guy that saved her? asked Shiel

-It’s logical if you think about it. A total stranger shows up to save the damsel in distress… she paused emphatically allowing me to get a chance to pinch her for the remark

-…the same day that a new teacher comes? It’s too much of a coincidence.

Now one was going to convince her otherwise, and I had to admit that her logic kind of made sense. Suddenly, a sharp noise filled the hall: the signal that told us to be quiet and pay attention. Everyone became still. The Headmaster emerged from behind the curtains of the stage. As usual, he was dressed awkwardly : velvet jumper, green trainers and a fathered hat that made the audience burst into laughter. He was a bit eccentric and childish but he was said to be a powerful Mage. I suppose the proof of that was his position as a Headmaster and the way that even the most arrogant students didn’t dare to defy him. He let us all laugh for a while than raised a hand to put a stop to it. The laughter stopped immediately. We knew that we didn’t want to upset him. He scrutinized the Hall from one end to another. He took a dignified position, as dignified as he could look in that outfit.

-         Good evening my dear students. I know that I usually ask you to come here so I can share a bit of my wisdom with you. But today I didn’t came up with anything. Today, I called you here so I can introduce you to someone that has come to help you became wonderful citizens. I hope you will appreciate and make good use of the experience and knowledge that he can share with you.

He paused slightly and whispered something to someone staying behind the curtains.

-         Let me introduce you to Nicolo Mavoli.

The man that had saved me for the discipliners came on the stage. Most of the students were left dumbstruck by his presence just like I had been. I immediately noticed that the Headmaster had announced a different name than the one he had told me. Lia was gleaming at my side, wearing an “I told you so!” look on her face.

-Tell the students a few words my dear. You know… To break the ice, said the headmaster smiling.

I couldn’t take my eyes off him. He seemed to shine even brighter in the huge room. He looked around the room with narrowed eyes.

-I see that the students seem to be divided in two groups. Can I ask which is the criteria of this division?

One of the front line students answered mockingly:

-         The criteria is magical power. The powerful ones have Guardian Spirits, the week ones don’t.

He looked at him with anger and than asked in a sharp tone:

-And what exactly is power? And what is the reason you were given this power? There is anyone here who can answer me?

The Headmaster watched him with interest. One of the S students answered:

-Power is magic, is the ability to rule and make yourself respected by the weak ones…

-WRONG! he shouted.

All the students and teachers looked at him in astonishment. No one has ever before dared to contradict this view.

-         Real power, he continued, stands in kindness, courage, compassion and empathy, in admitting your own limitations. The reason you were given this power is to protect the ones you call ‘weak’, to give them your strength, to be the pillar that sustains them and comforts them.

He paused and looked at his bewildered assistance.

-You’ve all grown weak. You’ve all forgotten you true destiny. You don’t have power so you can show off, oppress others or make your lives easier. Power means responsibility. The ones that don’t use their gift for good, for becoming a beacon in the darkness, will be punished. You think you know what it means to be a mage. You have no idea how much work and dedication is necessary.

Monday, 20 June 2011

It seemed so odd to see the order of things contradicted. He was challenging the very way our society worked. He was saying it was wrong.

-         You are the future of this world, but if you remain as you are, ignorant of its realities, of its real order, that future will be a very grim one and in time  everything that we know will be destroyed, everything that was build with the sweat, blood and effort of your ancestors.

He closed his eyes for a second then looked at us again.

-         What I say may seem complicated, but there will be some changes in the teaching process that will help you understand what I am talking about.

The headmaster put his hand on his shoulder and said:

-         Will be waiting anxiously for those changes won’t we, my dear ones?

The entire hall was as silent as a grave. Everything he had said came as a shock to all of us.

-         Alright, it’s time for you to go to bed. You have a new day of study ahead of you tomorrow.

He waved us away with his hand and then took our new teacher with him and disappeared behind the curtains. The entire room turned into a noisy hive. Everyone was commenting about what had happened. Miss Xarria clapped her hands and send us all to bed again. This time we all obeyed. We said goodnight to Mirai and set for our own dormitory.

-         You know, said Shiel, this change might end up being a good thing.

-         How exactly? I asked exasperated. He won’t manage to change the way those rich kids think. He’ll make our lives even more miserable if he upsets them.

-         Maybe, or maybe not. Let’s wait and see, said Lia playing with her hair.

I rolled my eyes and said goodnight to Shiel. Then I went with Lia to our own room. I got to my own bed and prepared to sleep. The last thought I had before I fell asleep was that our new teacher could accomplish everything he wanted.

 20 June 2011     

 

 

Chapter 3

I had been abandoned in front of an old monastery when I was a newborn baby. On a cold winter day the bell of the monastery called and the sisters found a child on its steps. They fought it was a miracle that I hadn’t died in that cold. The ones that remembered the day I was left at the monastery said that I was sleeping soundly, without a worry ion the world, rapped up in a white cashmere blanket. Inside it was a neatly written note that said: “Her name is Vaira.” and nothing more. Sister Rose said that my skin was as hot, as if I’ve been right beside a stove all this time and not outside in the cold. I always thought that this meant that someone had been holding me just moments before I was left in front of the church. I secretly hoped that it meant that the person that brought me there did care about me, that they had made a mistake, that they will someday comeback for me, that I wasn’t unwanted, and that I wasn’t worthless. Except my blanket I also had a thin silver necklace around my neck that ended with a round pendant engraved with what seemed an Ancient symbol that no one could read. From then on I began to live in the monastery along with the other orphans. They soon realized that I didn’t have a Guardian Spirit so my chances of being adopted by a respectful family decreased significantly. Still, there were a few couples that wanted to adopt me but I did my best to change their minds. I didn’t want to leave the orphanage. I was afraid that if I did my parents couldn’t find me when they came back for me. So I turned into a complete tomboy. The sisters were driven mad by my behaviour, but Sister Rose read right through me. She became almost like a mother to me. She always believed that I was special, that I was a miracle bestowed on the monastery. I doubted that. If I would have been special my parents would have kept me. I was optimistic and cheerful most of the time. But sometimes I had nightmares about people running and screaming, about darkness and coldness, and than I woke up crying. In those nights I was afraid and I felt helpless, insignificant, and dark thoughts about my parents came to me. Why had they left me? Did they know that I didn’t have a Guardian Spirit and that’s why they left me? Were they going to come for me? How many nights was I going to wake up crying alone without anyone to hug me, comfort me, without someone to wipe my tears away? The only comfort I found back then was the heat of my pendant. I never told anyone because I was afraid they would say I was crazy but every time I was cold or sad there was heat coming from it. It was a heat that washed over me and took away all my sadness, sorrow and turned it to peace and warmth. It was what kept me going through all those lonely and frightening nights.

23 June 2011 

                                                                  ***

 

 

 I woke up the next day with a deep pain in my bones, a reminder of last night’s events. Thankfully I didn’t have to attend classes today. Miss Xarria had given me an absence permit for today so I could rest and recover. When I opened my eyes the room was dimly lighted through the heavy curtains. Obviously Lia had left them that way so I could sleep. It must have been around nine or ten in the morning. The morning classes were already half finished. There was a note from Lia on the desk.

“Make sure you don’t sleep the whole day. If you don’t show up for lunch will come to check on you and bring lunch. Take it easy today.

Lia.”

Her name was written in wavy letters. It was so beautiful it made me jealous. I went to the sink and splashed cold water on my face. I grabbed the first thing I could find, got dressed and left towards the cafeteria to have my late breakfast.

As I walked trough the labyrinthic corridors I let my eyes slid over the beautiful garden. Someone was standing next to the old oak tree at the edge of the garden. He saw me too and waved as if asking me to join him. I don’t know why but I obeyed his silent request. As I moved closer I realised who he was, our new supervisor. He stood down with his back close to the tree’s trunk. He looked even more stunning in the light of day. A bright smile was played on his lips. In his hand were a notebook and a pen, which seemed to have had his absolute attention until a few moments ago.

-        Nice to see you are feeling better, Vaira.

I frowned when I heard him call me by my first name. It wasn’t the fact that he called my by my first name what bothered me, but the way he said it, as if he had known me my entire life. The odd thing was that I felt the same way although my mind kept telling me that was impossible, that I had just met him yesterday.

- Good morning, Professor. Thank you for worrying about me.

I made a slight pause and than added.

- I don’t think it’s appropriate for a teacher to address a student so familiarly.

- But we are pretty close wouldn’t you say so Vaira?

His smile grew larger when he registered my reaction.

-         We only met yesterday, I replied a little irritated by the realisation that he was trying to get me angry.

-         I saved your life yesterday. That makes us intimate enough, don’t you think?

His choice of words made me raise an eyebrow.

-         Than why did you feel the need to lie about your name?

I knew that answering his question with another question just showed that I refused to admit that I agreed but I didn’t had any better idea. The second I let the words out I wished I hadn’t. It sounded as if was accusing him of something, so it made it look as if I cared about what he did.

He looked my directly in the eyes. The intensity of his look made me shiver. He patted the place at his side and asked me to join him. I hesitantly moved closer and stood down beside him.

He remained silent for a moment than said:

-Actually it’s short for Nemesis.

- You made it up right now didn’t you?

- It’s my real name. But I don’t like to give it to just anyone.

- That sounds nice. It’s a really beautiful name. It sounds like the name of an angel. It suits you. You shouldn’t make it shorter.

He giggled with delight and said:

-         I’m glad you think so. Most people hate it and fear it. It means threat and destruction in the Ancient language. I suppose it’s suitable. A beautiful name and a beautiful appearance for a dangerous creature. After all even roses have thorns.

-         I had the feeling he was somehow letting me know that he was a forbidden fruit I should keep away from and in the same time he was sending a hidden challenge tempting me to come closer and discover all his secrets. 

-         Have you told anyone the name I told you yesterday? he asked with a playful look in his eyes.

-         No… I remained silent for a moment and wondered why I haven’t. I didn’t.

-         Good, he replied. Don’t tell it to anyone else.

I was surprised by his request and I suddenly felt an urge to rebel against him. I hated how easily it was for him to make me trust him and obey him.

- Why? I asked defiantly.

He threw me another one of those looks that swept off my feet and than said:

-         Because very few people are allowed to call me that way.

-         And I am one of those people? I asked surprised.

-         Yes. You are special.

This time I felt that he had thrown a bucket of icy water on my head. Now I knew for sure that he was mocking me. I tried to stand up and ran away but he pulled the edge of my top and brought me back at his side. He closed his hands around my wrists and asked.

-What’s wrong? Don’t you believe me?

 I looked angrily at him and answered:

- You’re just playing a painful joke with me. I’m nothing special. I’ve never been anything more than average. I’m not smart and I don’t have much magical power. There is nothing special about me…

He released one of his hands and covered my mouth with it. I could feel his fingers touching my lips, threads of heath making them warm.

-         Yes, you are.

He breathed deeply as if I had somehow disappointed him.

-   Haven’t you heard anything of what I said last night? Magic and intelligence aren’t real power. That’s not what makes one special. That’s not what makes you special.

I moved his hand away and said:

- I still don’t have anything special.

He smiled gently and said.

-         Yesterday, when you were attacked you tried to protect your friends.

-         Anyone would do that.

He smiled again.

-         Not anyone would. You were brave and selfless. Those qualities show strength of character; it shows you have a beautiful soul. And that’s what makes you special. I’m sure you have many more qualities Vaira.

Hearing him call my name made more aware of myself. I realised I was still holding his hand. I jerked my hand away, but the heat of his hand still lingered on mine.

-         So what were you working on? I asked trying to change the subject.

-         I was thinking about the changes I’m going to introduce in the school.

He laughed when he saw my dumbstruck look.

-         You mean you are actually going to do it.

-         Of course I will, he replied turning serious again.

-         Do you think that it’s going to work? I asked with a cynical note in my voice.

-         I guess you’ll just have to wait and see.

He had an air of self confidence about him when he said it that made me believe that there is nothing he can’t do.

-         Than I guess I should let you work and get on my way.

-         We can still talk for a while if you want.

-         Thanks, but I have to meet with my friend for lunch.

-         Okay. If you ever need to talk with someone you can always bother me.

The way he smiled made me think he meant it.

-         Thank you, Nem.

I stood up and started to move away.

- Vaira.

Just by the simple fact of calling my name he managed to make my heart race. I felt as if pulled by a magnet toward him, compelled to turn around and look at him.

-         Yes?

-         Have a nice day, he said smiling.

I slowly nodded and than started running toward the halls as fast as I could. When I got there I hid behind a thick stone column. I picked from behind it and looked at him. He was already immersed in his work, he was scribbling furiously in his notebook. I smiled seeing his focused face. He seemed so much more like a divine creature that way. I felt pain in the same time. As my mind took notice of the overwhelming distance between the two of us. I’ve never felt that way before, completely drawn towards someone, reacting to the smallest gesture and the smallest word. My soul, my mind, my entire being was over boiling with confusion. I didn’t understand what I was feeling. It was thrilling and terrifying in the same time. For the moment I decided to lock these odd feeling inside of me. I ran towards the cafeteria and tried to stop thinking about it.  

23 June 2011

 

                                                          ***

When I got to the cafeteria I found Mirai and the others already sitting at a table. She stood up and came to hug me.

-How are you feeling? she asked trying to hide the trace of worry in her voice.

- As healthy as a newborn baby, I said winking. What happened last night is not enough to keep me down. Don’t worry. You know me. I’m as tough as a weed.

We went and joined Lia and Shiel at the table. Lia smiled and said:

-         Today I’m going to treat you with some roe salad. I want you to get better as soon as possible.

-         And to celebrate the fact you survived yesterday, Shiel completed.

Lia pinched him and he grinned. I ignored him. My eyes grew wide with surprise:

-Lia! I exclaimed. That is so expensive. You shouldn’t have spent your money on it.

She rolled her eyes and said:

-         I’m only doing this because you are still convalescent so don’t get used to it. Besides, I didn’t pay for it. I sometimes help the cook with some stuff and he has a soft spot for me so he gave it to me for free.

-         What kind of stuff? asked Shiel smiling

-         I could tell you but then I would have to kill you.

-         Yap sure, like it could really be something dangerous or anything like that.

Lia didn’t said more but she kept a mischievous smile on her lips making us wonder what she was up to.

-         Anyway, just eat it. It’s for you.

I obediently did what she said.

- Hey, said Mirai. I just remembered that I wanted to tell you something. You know that last night everyone was in turmoil.

- Really? I asked pretending not to care. I went directly to bed. I was too tired to care. That part was true.

Mirai looked curiously at me. I felt as if my face had just gone on fire. I knew she had read behind my detached attitude. She always knew when I tried to hide something. She knew me too well. I couldn’t hide anything from her.She turned back to the others and said:

-         As I was saying, most students were talking about the new Supervisor last night. I heard my roommate saying he is a very high rank spirit and that’s why the families of the S students are allowing him to do as he pleases. That and the fact that the Council of Elders seems to be very displeased. However the kids have no intention whatsoever to do what he says. They plan to make him leave.

-         Fat chance, said Shiel laughing. What are they going to do? Try to bully him like they do to the ordinary teachers. I have a feeling that this guy is even more dangerous than the Principle.

I frowned and asked:

- What do you mean? He doesn’t seem that dangerous to me.

-And he saved her life, Lia continued.

Shiel rolled his eyes.

-         That’s because you are girls and think he is hot.

I almost drowned with my food when I heard him say that.

- What’s wrong? Lia asked. You don’t like the food?

Mirai tried to hide a smile. I’ve given her another clue about what was bothering me.

-         However strong this guy is, it’s going to be a hassle to actually manage to change anything in this school.

-         That’s true, said Lia.

-         Even if he gets all the female students and teachers on his side.

This time the one who reacted was Lia. She pinched him so hard he almost screamed. You would think he learned his lesson by now and should know that annoying Lia is not a good idea. Somehow I had the feeling he liked it. I suspected he did that to tease Lia, in the same way that I refuse to dress and behave as, at least in Lia’s view, a young lady.

-         So, are you coming to classes this afternoon? Lia asked changing the subject.

-         I think I’m going to take advantage of my leave and go have some more rest.

She threw me a scolding look. If there was something Lia was serious about it was studying. And she never allowed me to skip. But today I had a good excuse and she had to surrender.

-Fine, but you’ll have to copy all my notes and let me tutor you or you’ll fall behind.

-Yes, Li. I had said her name as I would’ve said mom.

She gave me all her notes for the morning classes. Since the break was almost over they all had to go to the classrooms and I had to go back to the dorm. I said goodbye to Lia and Shiel, but Mirai stayed behind for a second. She was just looking at me with catlike eyes.

-What? I asked in the end.

- You tell me, she said smiling.

The bell rang. She took my hand and said looking into my eyes.

-         We need to talk later, but only if you want.

Then she let go and ran to her classroom. I wanted to talk to her too, but I was so confused that I didn’t knew what I could say, what I wanted to say. I went back to my room, hid beneath my blankets and fell in a dreamless sleep.

24 June 2011

                                                                  

Chapter 4

It had been a week since Nemesis had come to our school. None of the changes he had promised could be felt and most students began to believe that it never will. But we were all going to find out that nothing was at it seemed when it came to our new Supervisor.

It was a sunny Friday afternoon and we were all waiting anxiously for the weekend. We had just finished our morning classes and were heading to the cafeteria for lunch. A big group of students were gathered around the announcement board and were chattering like a flock of sparrows. Mirai showed up from the crowd and came next to me.

-What’s going on? I asked almost shouting, trying to get through the racket.

- Follow me, she yelled back.

We got ourselves a table were we could speak without yelling and then Mirai began to fill as in.

-Apparently, the new Supervisor is not all talk and no action. He came up with some changes, and some drastic ones. The S students are dead furious. He wants the L students to form pairs of two with the S students and study the same curriculum.

 I think I dropped my jaw when I heard her. Lia’s eyes were gleaming. She had always wanted to study advanced magic. Until now that had been the privilege of the S students. Shiel looked as if he had swallowed a sour lemon.

-Does that mean we are getting more homework?

-I don’t know, but it means we can be in the same classroom again, said Mirai cheerfully.

My heart skipped a beat when I realized that Mirai and I will be together again. I almost jumped off my sit and went to hug Mirai. Shiel rolled his eyes.

-         Do you really think the S and their parents are going to allow that so easily? Even if they manage to get this new order they will make our life a hell.

I never understood how Shiel managed to be a buffoon and a pessimist in the same time. Lia gave him a scornful look and then asked Mirai:

- What else is going to change? 25 June 2011

- Ok, said Mirai with a mysterious smile on her lips, listen to this…

She paused emphatically and looked around as if to check if we were listening.

-         Oh, common tell us, snapped Shiel. Stop being so self important.

She threw him an angry look and said:

-         You are never going to believe this. They are going to make the S students do volunteer work.

-         What?! I said in genuine disbelief. Most of those kids haven’t worked a single day in their lives.

-         So that’s why they are being so noisy, said Lia chuckling. The young ladies are afraid that they are going to break their nails.

-         They also said the number of training sessions will be increased, Mirai continued.

Shiel and I gave a cheerful shriek while Lia frowned in objection.

-         They also say that we are all going to study all the advanced magic and let the S tutor the L.

It was Lia’s turn to smile with glee and ours to be gloomy.

-There also was some talk about practical sessions, seeing the real mages and priestesses at work and actually helping them.

This time we were all enthusiastic. It was very rare to see the pro’s and even less unlikely to see them doing their job. Helping them was only an impossible dream, especially for the L students that had chances close to zero to work with them, not to mention to become one.

-         When are we gone have to start following these rules?

-         Since Monday, Mirai said. There is going to be another gathering. These are just rumours. They’ll give us the details tomorrow.

-         Great, I said with a sour smile. We are going to have a wonderful year. They just couldn’t wait another year until I finished school. And to think that I wanted a quiet senior year.

-         Look at the bright side, said Mirai. If we are lucky we are going to be in the same classroom.

-         And if you have enough bad luck you just might end up Haire’s partner, said Shiel with a teasing smile.

I grabbed my schoolbag and threw it after him. It landed softly in his arms.

- If you really want to make some damage, you’ll need more strength V, he said with a cunning look.

Lia grabbed him by his ear and said:

-         Don’t worry I’ll give her the fast course.

-         She’ll need it if she wants to finish the year alive.

He froze the second he said that. In light of the recent events that wasn’t too far from reality to be a good joke.

-         Sorry V, he said looking remorseful. I didn’t think about what I was saying. I’m sure you’ll be alright.

-         It’s okay, I said smiling but I couldn’t help to wonder if it was going to be that way.

-         You’ll be fine, said Lia. Maybe a few broken limbs but nothing more.

We all burst into laughter. We held hands. We all knew that whatever was going to happen we are going to go through it together and that is going to make things easier because we are not alone. Everything was going to work out.

26 June 2011

                                                           ***

 

  Saturday was always a day all the students, reach or poor, at the institute, looked forward. The reason was simple. It was the only day of the week we were allowed to leave the campus. Sundays were dedicated to prayer and meditation, the so called cleansing of the soul, before beginning a new cycle, meaning a new week of study. I was certain that those prayers worked. It was a miracle that I haven’t failed my exams every year and all the praying must have had something to do with it. So, when we were told that this Saturday we had to come back earlier in order to attend the meeting we were all outraged. But there was nothing we could do about it. So I decided to go to the city market with Mirai, Shiel and Lia, as we did every Saturday. We didn’t have much money so we didn’t buy much. Just some of the delicious food we couldn’t resist. We put our money together and shared some gastronomic wonder. Except for the food, we went to see the street performers. You never got bored to watch them. They always changed their tricks, songs and dances. If you had enough money they would play the ones that you wanted. If you didn’t, you just had to settle with whatever they were doing at the moment. I’ve made really nice memories and I know the place by heart by know. Sometimes we gave the street vendors a hand and got some small appreciation tokens in return. I’ve saved them all in a box in my room: pieces of precious memories that will never go away.

I was laid on the grass in front of the main gate. Lia was late. She always took so long to get dressed on this day, even longer then on a normal school day. After I saw her changing in and out of about a dozen outfits I couldn’t take it anymore. I decided to wait outside and left the room in exasperation. Shiel wasn’t anywhere to be seen so he was probably still sleeping. He always woke up in the last moment and that’s why he was always late. Usually he gets up when Lia comes to knock at his door. The few times that I went with her I heard weird noises that sounded as if he was tearing the room apart, after which he opened the door looking like a grumpy owl. I could bet Mirai was ready but, unfortunately, I wasn’t allowed to step in that side of the campus. So here I was, alone, enjoying the nature, listening to crickets and humming birds. Once every other minute I looked at the massive golden gates to check if any of my friends was coming. I had just checked and I lay back on the grass with my eyes closed, when I felt a shadow fall on top of me.

-Finally, what took you so long? I said and stood up on my elbows.

- Sorry to keep you waiting, said a voice that didn’t belonged to the ones I was waiting for.

I jumped on my feet and saw Nemesis in front of me. He chuckled when he saw my embarrassment.

- Sorry, I said in a hurry. I was waiting for someone else.

- That was obvious, he replied.

He took in my outfit and asked:

-         You’re going to the training grounds?

-         NO! I’m going to the town village, I retorted angrily.

Everyone kept telling me how un-lady like my clothes were. I didn’t need him to point that out too.

-         I didn’t mean to upset you. Everyone has their own style. If that’s the kind of clothes you want to wear is your problem. But I don’t understand why you don’t like more girlish clothes. They would look good on you.

I blushed when he said that.

- Maybe they would, I answered, but I’m not used to wearing them and it would make me seem a little helpless damsel.

He burst into laughter.

-         I don’t think there is any kind of outfit that could make you look vulnerable.

-         I’m not…

-         I know, he said lifting his hand in front of him to stop the torrent of words that was about to come from my mouth. I’m not trying to pick up a fight. I just saw you here and I was curious.

-         Do you always let loose your curiosity?

-         No, just when I’m really interested in something, he said smiling.

I could’ve looked at him and listen to his voice for ever, but Mirai came from behind the gates. When she noticed my company she smiled. She came by my side and said:

- Sorry to make you wait. Hello, professor. I have to congratulate you for the reforms you came up too. They just might make a difference.

He smiled.

-         Thank you. I hope they do, miss…

-         Mirai.

-         Nice to meet you. I have other things to attend now. You’ll have to excuse me.

-         Of course.

And then he went back to the school.

-         Now I understand why you had been so weird lately. If a boy like that would save my life I would probably get a crush too, said Mirai once he was far enough not to hear her.

-         I don’t have a crush on him, I tried to deny it. But I wondered if she was right.

-         Sure you don’t, she smiled cunningly.

I just blushed and looked down. I hadn’t had time to look at her before, but she looked stunningly in her red cotton dress. What a contrast must have been to see us side by side. I felt a trace of regret for not being a bit more presentable.

Lia showed up from the gates, dragging a sleepy Shiel after her. I took advantage of their arrival to change the topic.

-         Come on you two. If we wait any longer there will be no point in going. We’ll have to come back right after we get there.

-         It’s not my fault, said Lia. Shiel didn’t wake up in time.

-         Don’t put this on me, he retorted. I’m not the one that takes two hours getting ready.

-         Ok, ok, said Mirai. Let’s go already.

We left for the market with Shiel and Lia still fighting behind us. Mirai took my arm and smiled.

-         It’s going to be a wonderful afternoon.

27 June 2011

 

                                      ***

 

Chapter 5

The market was as colourful and full of life as usual. The stands were knit together in countless rows weaving a complicated maze. No matter how many times you came here there still were heaps of places you’ve never seen.

Shiel and Lia have finished arguing about whose fault was that we were late. But now they had found a new topic. And now Mirai and I had joined in.

-         No, I said exasperated. I don’t want to eat roasted squirrel. It’s gross.

-         Not to mention that they are absolutely adorable, Mirai took my side. How could you even think about hurting them and cooking them?

-         But is the same thing as eating the pigeons, argued Shiel, they are cute too!

-         That’s right, Lia said. So when it comes to the law of survival, everything that is edible is alright to eat.

I couldn’t believe my ears. Lia always disagreed with Shiel. It was a phenomenon to see her siding with him.

28 June 2011

 

- Now, now my little ones, said the chubby looking owner, there is no need to argue. There are plenty of other delicious dishes you can try. What do you say about my grandmother’s old recipe, wild pig with rosemary and garlic? Or what about some ratatouille with marinated sea shells. I f those are not on your liking you can try some olive stuffed salmon with lemons. What do you say?

While he was talking the cunning old man was playing with the plates in front of our noses. The delicious aromas leaking from the plates made our stomachs growl in an instant and we forget all about our silly fight.

-         Why you don’t recommend us something, said Lia anxiously.

We all agreed. We just wanted to eat some of that mouth-watering food as soon as possible and we knew that if it was up to us the decision would be further prolonged.

-         Then…the owner kept playing with the strands of hair of his entangled beard as if the answer was hidden somewhere behind it.

-         Why don’t you try the hot pepper deer with gammon?

We all nodded impatiently. He went back in his shop and then came out with a dish looking just as delicious and appetising as it smelled. He wrapped up the plate in a clean cloth and hand it to us.

-Now get out of here and don’t scare my other customers!

He always pretended to be upset when we quarrelled over the food, but he was happy that we really appreciated his dishes. The rich people that could afford as much exotic food they wanted considered it nothing special. I guess all cooks want to make people happy with their food.

30 June 2011

 

We took our little treasure and headed to the centre of the market. A cheerful crowd was gathered there. We moved closer and saw a skinny old man dressed in a raggedy robe with leaves and wild flowers attached to it. His long beard had brightly coloured thistles entangled in it making look like an adorned Christmas tree. Beside him was a blond elfish-like child wearing simple black clothes similar to the ones of the mages in the legends. His curls fell around his face making him look angelic. The odd duo was the main entertainment of the market, Pierro and Mylo. The contradictions between the two and their pretended childishness turned them into legend comedians. All the people gathered here waited impatiently to witness their new mischief.

Pierro was looking annoyed at his partner who was scrutinizing the crowd as if looking for something. The old man started tapping his fingers on his knee. When Mylo ignored him he tapped him on the shoulder. He turned around, looked surprised for a second and shifted his gaze back to the crowd. Pierro got angry, grabbed Mylo by his shoulder and asked:

-         There isn’t anything you want to say to me?

Mylo looked troubled for a second and then said.

-         Something like what?

-         Don’t you think you are being a bit rude? You should have congratulated your friend for his beautiful new outfit.

-         I was trying not to tell you how ridiculous you look. I thought that would be a bit rude too.

Pierro put on a hurt look.

-         You obviously have no good taste. My cloth is made of the softest cashmere, it has oriental broidery. My beautiful beard has diamond, ruby, emerald and sapphire ornaments. Who else is as beautifully dressed as I am?

The mob burst into laughter. Mylo looked at his friend with pitiful eyes.

-You are delusional my friend. You are dressed in rags and herbs. Your beard is full of thorns. And even if you had precious stones and fine clothing their beauty would be clouded by your foolishness and greed. Beauty makes a beautiful soul shine like gold and turns a dark one to coal black ugliness. Look at these simple people. Look how their eyes smile and how their souls shine. What jewel in the entire world can bring that twinkle in your eyes?

01 July 2011

This odd role game was what made the two of them so popular: an old man that acts foolish, greedy and capricious and a young boy that acts old and wise. The reversed roles were considered a comic mistake.

-         And I suppose you are happy just by watching them? Pierro mocked him.

Mylo smiled serenely.

-         And why wouldn’t I be, my friend? Life is so beautiful. No disgrace or ugliness can take away its beauty.

-         A dreamer and a fool… the other snorted. That’s what you are. You’ll never achieve anything in life.

-         In the contrary, my naive Pierro: the world belongs to us dreamers. Tell me? What is life without dreams and hopes? Just a sad shadow of despair.

-         Very funny! I wonder if those dreams will feed you and cloth you!

-         Why do you speak to me of such pointless things? If I am hungry I will eat the grass of the earth and the fruits of the trees. If I am thirsty I will sip dew from the leaves and water from the rivers. I will make the most beautiful clothes from the feathers of the birds and the fur of the beasts. When Mother Nature is so generous why should I angry her and say I do not have enough.

The people gathered to watch them were lost between amusement and awe. Pierro made you smile, but Mylo always made your soul shiver.

-         How long will you last that way?

-         How long I live is no important question, but how I live. My soul will rejoice in front of death knowing that I have lived a righteous life. And what is after that, I do not know. I am not arrogant enough to think I will join the cortege of worshipped spirits, but wherever my spirit will travel I will be happy because I once was fortunate enough to taste the beauty of the gift called life.

Pierro was wiping his teary eyes on the sleeve of his rags.

-         You are a fool my friend, he said refusing to back down.

-         That I know… said Mylo.

-         And far worse: you are a fool with a noble heart. There is no room for the ones like you in our world.

He lifted the child in his arms and said:

-         A soul so pure will be stepped upon by the ones that fear its beauty and the promise that it carries.

Mylo smiled sweetly and asked him:

-         When did you become a fool yourself old man?

-         It must be the fault of that nagging youngling that I call my friend.

He put Mylo down and started to pull the thorns out of his beard. Thick strands of hair got caught in them causing him pain. His hands got scratched by the bristles living tiny spots of blood on his white beard. Mylo tore a piece of his cloth and wrapped his friend’s hands in it. The crowd was crying now too. The kind act of friendship had moved their hearts. I was so absorbed in the events that I hadn’t noticed that I was drowning in tears myself. My friends were crying at my side too. Shiel was trying to pretend that something had gotten in his eye.

-         Ok, said Lia, whipping her eyes with her hand. It’s time to live or we will be late.

She made room for us and got us out from the crowd.

03 July 2011   

Impressum

Texte: nikyangelg
Bildmaterialien: Wojciech Dziadosz(cover picture)
Tag der Veröffentlichung: 07.03.2013

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