27th August

As the morning sun pierced through my window, casting its warm glow on my face, I slowly opened my eyes, the remnants of dreams fading away. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I noticed I had fallen out of bed during the night – a rather peculiar occurrence. Yet, I couldn't dwell on it for too long, as the responsibilities of the day called. I rose from my bed and meticulously made it, arranging the pillows and smoothing out the sheets with care. With each tug and fold, I found solace in the simple act of restoring order to my surroundings. A sense of accomplishment washed over me as I surveyed the tidy room.

As I prepared for the day ahead, I sought comfort in the warmth of a steaming cup of breakfast tea. The delicate aroma wafted through the air, enveloping me in a soothing embrace. The elegant crockery added a touch of elegance to my morning routine, reminding me to savour the small pleasures in life.

Sipping on the revitalising brew, I found myself lost in a labyrinth of thoughts, reflecting on the events of the previous day. Unanswered questions were lingering in my mind, elusive fragments of knowledge that teased my curiosity. I braced myself, determined to uncover the truths shrouded in mystery.

As I removed my robe and stepping into the cascade of the shower, the hot water caressed my skin, revitalising both body and mind. Lost in the soothing embrace of the water, I contemplated the path I would tread throughout the day. Plans and possibilities swirled within me, each vying for attention.

Emerging from the shower, I carefully donned my neatly ironed uniform, the familiar fabric embracing me like a second skin. The room, now pristine and orderly, echoed my desire for clarity and purpose. With renewed energy, I sat down to indulge in a nourishing breakfast – a vibrant fruit smoothie bowl.

The bowl brimming with a vibrant medley of fresh, colourful fruits, a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Juicy berries, succulent mangoes, and tangy kiwis danced together in perfect harmony. Adorned with a sprinkle of crunchy granola, chia seeds, and delicate coconut flakes, it was a symphony of textures and flavours.

I pondered the intricate threads of fate that had brought me to this moment. The encounters, the revelations, and the trials that had shaped me into who I was now, all led to a path I couldn't fully fathom. Yet, one thing was sure - I was meant for something greater.

I left my dorm room and strolled towards Avalon Academy. As I walked through the city complex I could see the shops I visit regularly open up. Wizard's Warehouse, the small supermarket to buy everyday groceries, and Enchanted Emporium, a store filled with exotic magical ingredients, caught my eye. The aroma of enchanting pastries from Enigma Eats filled the air, tempting me to indulge in their delightful treats. As I continued my walk, I couldn't help but admire the enchanting architecture of Avalon. The towering spires, adorned with ancient runes, and the cascading waterfalls flowing down the sides of the buildings, all added to the mystical ambience.

Approaching the grand entrance of Avalon Academy, I was greeted by the watchful gaze of stone gargoyles perched atop the immense gates. The campus was a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, with historic towers coexisting with modern facilities.

As I entered Avalon Academy I could see other students rushing to their classes and Professors walking up to give lectures. The vibrant energy of Avalon Academy greeted me as I stepped through its grand entrance. Other students hurriedly made their way to their classes, their eager anticipation for the day's lessons evident in their expressions. The bustling hallways echoed with the chatter of friends catching up and the soft rustling of robes as students hurried along.

Amidst the excitement, I spotted the distinguished figures of the Professors, their knowledge and authority commanding respect. They gracefully moved through the corridors, their presence evoking a sense of admiration from everyone around them. The anticipation of their lectures lingered in the air, promising another day of enlightening and enriching experiences.

As the day's lectures began, I eagerly immersed myself in the world of knowledge that Avalon offered. The professors' words were like spells, weaving intricate patterns of wisdom in our minds. The camaraderie among the students was palpable, as we exchanged knowing glances and supportive smiles.

After the first half of lectures were over and the recess had started I walked

out of my class to meet my friends. As I crossed the grounds I could see other students strolling through with their friends. That’s when I set my eyes on Yuki. I walked up to him but he didn’t seem to notice me.

As I approached Yuki, I couldn't help but notice the distant look in his eyes, as if he were lost in a world far beyond our reach. "Hey Yuki," I said softly, hoping to get his attention. “You seem very… stoic today.”

He turned to me, his expression blank, and asked, "Is it? I don't know. What are you doing here, Naomi?" There was a coldness in his tone that sent a shiver down my spine. There was something I could sense from him, something felt different.

"I came here to meet you, of course. You wanted to tell me something yesterday. What was it?" I tried to hide my excitement, but it was hard not to show my eagerness.

His face remained unchanged, and he replied, "I was? I don't remember." It was as if he were speaking on autopilot, detached from the situation at hand.

“Yeah… Hey, you want to go to the Black Moon?”

“Where?” He asked.

“The Black Moon café. Where I took you with Antonio remember?” I said, trying to ignite his memory.

“...” He stood there silent for a second, his expressions in another dimension, “Right. That place. Not interested.” He replied.

“If you're done wasting my time then move out of my way.” He said pushing me away from himself. He applied enough force to shove me into the wall and didn't even bother to look back.

Then get lost, you stupid f0ck. Was what I wanted to scream into his ears, but I couldn't. I was just left there flabbergasted, trying to figure out why he would be behaving like that.

Was it due to something that happened yesterday? Maybe I said something wrong to him. But that can't happen, our conversation was very brief, cut short by him being summoned… wait, maybe something happened after that. I gotta ask someone. I don't trust the senior teachers to give me a straight answer. I gotta ask someone who will help me. Miss Iva should have some idea, he did talk to her yesterday.

I set out looking for her through Block A, and after a few minutes, I realised that the search was futile and opted to ask others about her. A junior told me she was in the caféteria having lunch… great so I gotta run back to Block B.

After reaching the café I spot her sitting in the centre of the lounge eating alone… does she not feel lonely? I decided to take it slow from her and not confront her directly. I walk up to her and try to strike up a conversation, “Hey Miss Iva, what a surprise seeing you here.” I said, attempting to keep any hint of concern out of my voice.

She looked up from her meal and smiled warmly, "Naomi, what brings ya here, girl?" Her friendly tone put me at ease, but I couldn't help but sense a hint of weariness in her eyes.

“I was just wandering around and happened to spot you sitting here all alone,” I replied, trying to sound nonchalant.

“Yeah, it's a nice change of pace to have some quiet time.” Miss Iva replied, her smile still present, though I could sense a touch of underlying fatigue in her voice.

“Yeah, that makes sense.” I mumbled awkwardly.

“So…” I hesitated.

“Just spill it, kid. I know you want to ask something. Why don't you sit down first?” Miss Iva said, inviting me to take a seat. Her tone was both caring and direct.

"Well..." I settled into the chair across from her, gathering my thoughts. "It's about Yuki. Have you noticed anything strange in his behaviour?" I inquired.

Miss Iva's gaze softened as she leaned in, attentive to my concerns. "Well, he did try to pick fights with everyone yesterday, but that's just typical Yuki behaviour. However, today... Today he seemed different. He was off, but at the same time, he was more focused during his training, even performing better than he did yesterday. His aura felt... stronger, almost aggressive." She paused, searching for the right words to describe the subtle changes she had sensed in Yuki. “But ya know that don’t ya?”She grinned knowingly.

“I did sense something different about his aura, there’s something wrong with him.” I said.

“I think in that case there’s only one person you can ask for help.” She suggested.

As my mind scattered through the possibilities I realised who she was talking about, “I know who that must be.” I said enthusiastically.

“Of Course you do.” She said with satisfaction.

“I’ll take my leave then.” I said leaving the table with newfound objective and determination.

⛧ ⛧ ⛧

"Zo khis aura grew?" asked the woman, her voice carrying a distinct Russian accent that added a touch of intrigue to her words. The room she was sitting in itself was shrouded in an air of mystery, with grey curtains drawn to partially block the pale sunlight. The space seemed to hold its breath as if it were an ancient library filled with forgotten knowledge.

The woman, a tall and captivating figure, exuded an aura of authority and wisdom. Her voluminous blonde hair cascaded elegantly over her shoulders, and her pristine white coat accentuated her poise and confidence. The burgundy shirt she wore under her coat showed her cleavage and added a hint of boldness to her appearance, while her piercing blue eyes held a depth of knowledge gained through years of dedicated study. Her name was Yelena Chaykovsky, a master at .

As she leaned back in her chair, her gaze locked onto me, her captivating blue eyes filled with intrigue. "Right, his aura feels different, more aggressive and developed," I replied, trying to gather my thoughts.

"Tkhat's interesting. Wkhat is your khypothesis on tkhiz sudden ckhange?" she inquired, rubbing her fingers across her chin, lost in contemplation.

"I think there's only one thing that would make sense, tho the chances are very less, it might be ." I responded, my mind racing through all the possibilities.

" doesn't last for a long period of time. In my experience, tkhe maximum it khas lasted for is somewhere above 5 minutes." she countered, her voice measured and thoughtful.

"But what about Glynn Maier? He has been in since years now." I argued, seeking to explore all angles.

"Glynn Maier is an exception. Your friend can't suddenly become khim." She replied firmly, her expertise evident in her words.

"Why not?" I persisted, determined to find an explanation.

"Tkhe conditions for Glynn were very different. Khis body didn’t respond properly to all flowing into his system, witkh Yuki, tkhere’s no such case."

"Then what could it possibly be?" I queried, feeling a sense of urgency to get to the bottom of this mystery.

"I don’t think tkhis might be the case but… khave you tkhought about ?" Miss Yelena suggested, raising an eyebrow, her words opening up a whole new realm of possibilities.

“No way. That’s not possible. Yuki has just began his training, he can’t just achieve overnight.” I exclaimed.

“You’re rigkht. It skhouldn’t even be possible. Looks like the only way to find out is by bringing khim to me.” She suggested.

“Right. I’ll do as you say.”

Saying so I left the dusty room to get Yuki.