Wunderstones.

  When charged with magic, the cores of the rocks would spark to life, emanating pulses of energy that illuminated the otherwise muted turquoise surfaces with an ethereal gleam. These rare artifacts were not merely decorative; they possessed the extraordinary capability to power advanced arcanetech devices—though Elaine remained uncertain about the intricate mechanisms behind such applications. Their rarity was matched only by their value, often fetching hundreds of tokens in the marketplace.

  Despite having read about these remarkable stones in tomes and catching fleeting glimpses of them nestled among wares in the market stalls during her errands, this moment marked Elaine's first experience witnessing one glow. Were they always this luminous? In an instant, the rock on the table erupted in brilliance, turquoise-tinted rays flowing like liquid light, flooding the air around it. Its brightness was so intense that it compelled everyone in the room, from Headmaster Valerian to his peculiar assistant, to shield their eyes. Oddly enough, Elaine had yet to peel her sights off of it, and it took Liam tugging her forcefully on her arm and Milo's barks—low-pitched snaps hammering off to her right—for Elaine to regather her senses. Gasping, she plucked her hand away from the wunderstone. As she did, the light beaming out of its core ceased. It was a normal rock once more. Elaine touched her forehead, collapsing back onto the couch, feeling faint. Her breathing was heavy, her heart pounded heatedly against her chest, distracting tingles poked at the skin like splinters. It was as if...as if she'd just cast a spell.

  "Impressive," said Orion. Despite him rubbing his eyes, blinking them rapidly as to readjust his vision, the man seemed enthralled. He openly welcomed an amazed smile, and he leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees. "You'd be surprised at how many candidates I've watched fail that very same test. Don't be fooled; most would not have done what you just did."

  Elaine stared at him. "Pardon...?"

  "Tell me," he said, "what drew you to the wunderstone? Usually, their worth is determined by how brightly they shine. But this one was drained, having nothing left to offer anyone. It might as well be an ordinary rock, and some might argue it has no place with the rest of this fine collection, treasures originating from the five corners of Althea. Nevertheless, you chose the wunderstone. Why?"

  "I...I can't say," Elaine admitted, scratching her nape. "It felt...right somehow. Like the stone was calling to me. There was a hint of...I don't know, something. A tiny voice trying to get out."

  "The Eye of the Beholder," Raze said, a taut gargoyle standing next to the headmaster. "Long ago, when sorcerers and magic were new to Incante, they were ostracized, feared. The ruling forces used wunderstones like this one to snuff out the mages hiding within their kingdoms, hoping to capture and execute them before they could spread Bedlam."

  Elaine shuddered. She wasn't an avid historian, especially when compared to Ellend. When she was younger, she always found history boring, thousands of words rambling on and on for endless pages, talking about that of which she cared very little about. Nowadays, she'd sneak into Ellend's room to steal some of the texts from his personal library. Her mother did have a point; not once had Elaine left town. Page was all that she knew. Ignorant was she of what all transpired past its borders. When not eavesdropping on fractions of conversations coming from the mouths of travelers or scanning the tabloids for something, anything, interesting, she'd resort to the knowledge in her brother's texts. During the Early Centuries, magic was commonly perceived as evil. Some countries even outlawed the practice of magic. Back then, Elaine wondered if there were also persons who aspired to be sorcerers, even if the rest of the world forbade it. Did they ever wonder if an Era of Magic could even be possible?

  "I always find it humorously ironic how the symbol of death for many innocent mages is now used to recognize skillful sorcerers," Orion chuckled. "In any case, Elaine Harwood. I'm happy to announce that you've passed the test."

  Orion stood up, turning to face her parents, who were still recovering from the sudden light show. "That there should be adequate evidence, don't you think? Your daughter, she does have the potential to be a Professional Sorcerer."

  Mother shook her head, dazed. "W...What? How does this prove...?"

  "It should be highlighted," Raze intruded, "the brighter the wunderstone's core burns, the greater amount of Essence that sorcerer possesses. Your daughter, she nearly scorched my eyes out." Elaine winced as he shot a crooked glare her way, but he only released an exhale out of his scowl. "As absurd as it sounds," Raze went on, "this rock proves that she has talent. Talent that should be groomed accordingly."

  "Now hang on a minute," Father objected, marching right into Raze's face. For a brief moment, Elaine was worried he would assault the man. Ellend did inherit his abrasiveness from somewhere, after all. "I don't care what the damned stone says! You're not taking my daughter anywhere, not if I can help it."

  To her surprise, neither of the sorcerers did anything. Orion snapped his fingers, and Raze hurried to collect the items, including the wunderstone, off the table. Elaine wasn't entirely confident about how he managed to store them all inside of his cape. "As we said," Orion began, "it is entirely her choice. We didn't come here to start a fight, nor do we have any intention of splitting a family apart. This test, as I see it, was merely a means of clarifying if your daughter has a place at my academy. As far as I'm concerned, she most definitely does. That being the case, as her parents, I suppose you have the final say-so. Regardless of my opinion, we will not overrule your authority and will respect your decision, whatever it may be." The tail of his coat flapped as he started for the door, Raze falling into step behind him. "Today has been...taxing for us all. I suspect you might need some time to mull it over. We will return tomorrow morning for an answer."

  "Wait," Elaine called, leaping off the couch and charging after them. She caught Orion with his hand on the door handle. He looked over his shoulder at her. Were his eyes...glowing? "Was that enough? A simple test like that?" Footsteps scuttled to a stop behind her, soft and small; it was her mother. But Elaine continued, "You haven't seen me cast any spells or how good I am at regulating my magic or—"

  Orion raised his finger. "I've seen everything I had to. Rest well, Young Elaine." With that, Orion strode outside, pulling the door closed with a thud. The house was then slowly drenched by a weighted quietness, save for Milo's whimpering—his eyes were more than likely still flaring from the wunderstone's blinding light.

  *

  * *

  "Are you positive this is what you want to do?" Elaine released an uncertain breath, and then she took a glance at the photograph in her hands. The young, brown-haired woman looked almost identical to her mother, save for a couple of details. A sharper nose, rounder face, brighter eyes. But their beauty, that was a quality both the twins shared. Her mother didn't like mentioning Delilah that often. It was a sore spot for her, anchoring her past with misery. That pain was potent. It ate at the nerves, tested one's sanity. To lose a sister, and at such an early age. It wasn't surprising that she was overly reluctant about sending off her only daughter to face an uncertain destiny.

  Nevertheless, Elaine was resolute, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. She held fears of her own—deep-seated anxieties that prickled at her like thorns. The thought of adapting to the lavish lifestyle of an academy befitting a noble's splendor filled her with doubt. What if Orion had made a mistake after all? What if she truly wasn't as talented in magic as Ellend believed her to be? Questions raced through her like shadows in a darkened room. What would become of her then, cast aside like a withered leaf?

  She had a million reasons to reject Headmaster Valerian's prestigious offer, each one a sturdy link in the chain of her hesitance. Yet, beneath the weight of her uncertainties, there remained a single, solid reason why she wouldn't turn away from this opportunity: discovery. It loomed before her like a majestic beast, fierce and untamed, akin to a land dragon that had gone feral. An inherent threat that demanded her curiosity and focus, enveloping her in a thrilling sense of danger. Elaine knew she loved magic—she could feel it pulsating through her veins like a living entity. She aspired to be a Professional Sorcerer, not only to support her family and lift them from the oppressive weight of their financial struggles, but also to satisfy that fervent, unquenchable itch that had haunted her from childhood. That insatiable desire to explore the depths of the mystic arts and unravel the mysteries of magic beckoned her closer, urging her to take the leap into the unknown.

  Elaine sighed to herself, then she spent a peek over at her mother. She was sitting right beside her on the edge of the unmade bed. There seemed to be a lot the woman was contemplating. Those distant eyes focused on the floorboards, and her lips quivered like she was on the cusp of uttering a word. It toyed with Elaine's patience. If she had something to say, then just say it. Why keep it in? But then, another revelation struck her. She'd be going off to Glyph Academy. This would be the last night she'd spend inside her room. That is if everything went according to plan...

  Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

  She scanned the familiar setting, her gaze lingering on the deep purple rug that cloaked the aged wood floor. Atop the bedside table, a brass lamp glinted softly, casting warm shadows on the surface where two thick fairytale novels lay side by side—tattered and dog-eared, remnants of her mother’s nightly storytelling rituals during her childhood. Each page turned had woven a thread of enchantment into her young heart, making it impossible to part with them, despite the dusty memories they held. Across the room, the half-opened closet revealed a chaotic array of stale, dated dresses and clothing, their once-bright colors faded and their fabrics heavy with years of neglect. The scent of mothballs lingered, mingling with the fresh, sweet evening breeze that danced through the window. As she sat there, a bittersweet farewell washed over her. The sadness of potentially leaving it all behind tugged at her heartstrings, yet it was the thrill of discovery that pulsed more intensely beneath the surface. What else lay hidden within Incante, waiting for her to uncover? What wonders and adventures awaited her beyond this cherished room? The promise of the unknown thrummed louder than ever, urging her to embrace the future.

  "If you're doing this for us, Elaine, then you needn't have to," Mother said, hands on her lap. "Our potion shop is going through a rough patch; I'd be one of the Eight Fools if I couldn't tell that much. But despite the hardships we've constantly faced, us Harwoods always manage to pull ourselves out of the mud and make something with the wreckage."

  Elaine nodded. "I know."

  "So, if you feel pressured into doing this for our sakes, then daughter I—"

  "I love...every single one of you. Even Liam, though I do wish you'd dump him back in the manticore pit you found him in. And I'd be overjoyed if my Professional Sorcerer career could benefit you somehow. The thing is, I also want to study magic because, well, to be frank, it's my dream. Potion making and babysitting and fetching fruits from the marketplace. That's not me. I want to explore the rest of Incante and see what else is out there. I want to use my magic to help others. I want to find out...why Aeris gave me this Gift in the first place. I'm aware of how unreasonable I can get, Mother. I know I'm probably way in over my head. But, at the very least, I want to try." Her mother withdrew a breath and said nothing. The urticating silence caused Elaine to profess, "It's like the headmaster said: You have to make the final decision. But if you and Father truly are against the idea, then I'll do as you say."

  "No," her mother denied, shaking her head. "I could never live with myself if I kept you from chasing your dreams, even if I can't comprehend them. Then again, I couldn't quite understand her either." Elaine gazed intently at the photograph alongside her mother, both lost in memories. The image captured the smiling woman dressed in her unmistakable Strix uniform. This high-collared, dark blue robe flowed elegantly to the ground, contrasting with a long-sleeved, purple-colored shirt and fitted long pants, highlighting her strong figure. Sturdy black boots, worn yet polished, completed the outfit while above her heart, the golden sun-shaped emblem of the Arcanum shimmered brilliantly, representing a legacy of magic and honor. In the backdrop, their quaint cottage stood, its charming wooden frame and blooming garden evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia for the home where Elaine and her family had woven countless memories together. "My parents couldn't change her mind, and the people in town thought her insane. But she proved them all wrong. She became a high-ranking member of the Arcanum. And she paid with her life for it..." A grim reality. An unsettling reminder. Most Professional Sorcerers, whether affiliated with the Arcaunum or the Military, didn't live past forty. It was by no means a spotless profession. "I see that same spark in you that she had. There's nothing I can do to trap it, no matter how hard I try. Elaine, if this is the path you're set on walking, I will support you in any way I can."

  Elaine, relieved and partially surprised that that was her answer, welcomed her mother's embrace, wrapping her arms tightly around the woman's waist. "And Father?"

  "He'll get over it," she said, stroking rivers of blonde hair. "But you'll have to promise me something."

  "Okay."

  "That regardless of what they teach you in that academy, you won't ever lose sight of what's most important. That you'll come home to your family."

  Elaine nodded, determined not to disappoint her. Disappoint any of them. "That I can do."

  *

  * *

  Orion Valerian had kept good of his word, and the day had arrived. The morning sun cast long shadows across the grassy front yard as Elaine stood nervously, shifting from side to side. Before her was Headmaster Valerian himself, alongside his stern assistant, whose expression could have curdled fresh milk. Her father had his arms crossed tightly over his chest, muscles tense, and his scowl was an unsettling sight; it was the kind of look that could send even the fiercest creatures scurrying into hiding. His brow was furrowed, and his eyes darted between Elaine and the headmaster, a mixture of worry and disapproval etched across his features. Despite her mother’s persuasive words that had seemingly swayed him to allow Elaine to pursue her studies at Glyph, his deep-seated frustrations were apparent.

  In contrast, Ellend exuded an air of delight that seemed to brighten the whole yard. Seated in his wheelchair, his face lit up with a beaming smile that stretched from one cheek to the other. After all, his carefully laid plans had finally borne fruit—Elaine was going to embark on her first semester at Glyph Academy, a dream she had nurtured for years. Beside him, Orion was engaged in enthusiastic conversation, nodding along with Ellend’s animated tales and occasionally shooting supportive glances toward Elaine. She wished she could hear what he was telling the sorcerer.

  "So, you're really going, are you?" Liam asked cautiously. Milo wasn't with them as he was often reluctant around strangers. Orion and Raze were no exception. She had made sure to say her farewells to him, however. Giving him an entire five-minute belly rub as he squirmed in contentment on the floor. She'd miss that grumpy, sleep-ridden pooch. Liam, on the other hand...

  Elaine dropped into a crouch. Before the young boy could protest, she swallowed him into her hug, relentlessly constricting him as if she were a frilled python that hadn't eaten in months. She felt his blush like a spot of heat against the side of her face. "No tears for me, little bro? You're not going to be able to pester me anymore."

  "Elaine! Let go!" he squealed. With a chuckle, she granted his request, the boy stumbling away, arms raised in front of him. "For your information, I couldn't be happier. With you gone, it means Ma and Pa have more time to devote to my every need. I see this as a win-win."

  Elaine rolled her eyes. "Right, of course. By the way, don't think I haven't figured it out."

  "Hmm? What are you on about now?"

  Elaine leaned closer to him so that nobody could hear her whisper, "Ellend organized my enrollment with the Glyph representatives. Surely, he would have constantly communicated with them via letters and such. But I have to wonder, who was it that ran his mail to the Falcon Masters? Reckon it might be Milo?"

  Whenever Liam was caught red-handed in a crime, he was just so terrible at hiding his guilt. He awkwardly began scratching behind his neck, trying to quell his cheeks's redness. "I...erm...I don't know what you're talking about..."

  "Guess that explains why you've been so drowsy lately."

  "El!" Liam spat. "If you dare—"

  "Relax. Your secret is safe with me," Elaine grinned, ruffling his light-brown hair. "Watch over them for me while I'm gone, all right?"

  "Yeah, yeah. I'm on it," Liam groaned. "And...uh, good luck, I guess."

  "Aww, you do care about me!"

  "Forget it! You're so surgin' annoying!" Liam yelled, angrily marching in the direction of the cottage.

  "Headmaster," announced Raze. "The train will be departing soon. If we want to keep on schedule, I suggest we start making our way to the station."

  "Yes, yes. I'm coming," Orion said, striding over to him.

  Mother and Father trailed after him, and Elaine shared a family hug with them both, knowing full well it'd be the last one for quite a while. "Be safe, my daughter," Father said in that gravelly tone, the beard sprouting on his chin and itching her neck like tiny thorns.

  "I'll be fine," she said. "I can handle myself."

  "I know you can. You've got the blood of a powerful sorcerer in you. Nevertheless, don't lower your guard. You're stepping into a brand new world. Try not to let your excitement distract you from...danger."

  Mother swatted him on the shoulder. "Oh, leave her be."

  "What? I'm just saying—"

  "We didn't raise a sulmo; she'll find her way just fine."

  Elaine smiled. I'll try to, at least...

  "Hey, El. Got something for you." She recognized Ellend's voice anywhere, and the sound of the rubber wheels of his wheelchair grew louder as he rolled right up to her. He was holding something. "Thought this might come in handy."

  He held it out to her. His most cherished possession. Proof that he was, indeed, a sorcerer. His wand. Elaine hesitated, perplexity cascading on her face. "Ellend..." she said, aghast. "I can't—"

  "You will," he affirmed. "Last I checked, you don't have a wand, do you? They're surgin' expensive, trust me. Even a Common Wand like mine. With this, you won't have to waste precious tokens."

  "But...I—"

  "Take it," he grinned in his chair. "A piece of me, to bring along with you on your journey. I'm too impatient. I want to visit Glyph Academy as soon as possible, in one way or the other."

  Elaine's voice was trembling, but she took his wand and said, "This will only be temporary, brother. I'll return it to you once I get my own."

  "Whatever makes you feel better, sis," Ellend shrugged.

  "Mother, Father," Elaine said, paying a nod to them each. "I'll make you both proud."

  Her emotions swelled with an exuberant thrill, a mixture of excitement and trepidation that filled her chest to the brim. Elaine felt the tears starting to geyser, pooling at the corners of her eyes, and so she turned her back to her family, not wanting them to see her struggle. If she gave in to the soggy temptation, if she allowed herself to pour out her emotions here and now, she feared she might abandon her intentions and choose to stay in Page forever. No, she had to be strong. They believed in her, and so she had to muster that same belief in herself.

  With a determined grip, she clasped the strap of her satchel, feeling its familiar weight against her side, while the suitcase made a soft thud as it bumped across the uneven soil trail behind her. Each step forward resonated with the resolve burning brightly inside her heart. She waved at her family for a final time, forcing a smile onto her lips as she absorbed the image of the white-stoned, nostalgic cottage—its ivy-clad walls and rose-laden garden—into her memory. This place, filled with laughter and love, would always have a piece of her heart, but now she was ready to embrace the unknown that lay ahead.

  The girl left, following Orion and Raze as they led her—their clothes billowing in a breeze that swept the glades—into the future. Her future.