Chapter Text
It was a beautiful day in Delmora. For a few days now it has only been rain and clouds. But today has been especially bright. With sun rays shining through windows, women finally hanging clothes outside, kids running around happily and overall people just being happy.
In a cozy two-story house in the suburbs of Delmora, lived a girl whose life was getting more and more excited with each day. Being sick from the room she stayed in for the last few days, going outside with this beautiful weather was a must. Her messy room, full of books and empty potion pots was getting boring. Rushing out of the room, and down the stairs, she bumped into the family housekeeper, Nela.
Going somewhere miss Irene? I haven't seen you this cheerful in a while!
Nela chuckled. She is a cheerful and beautiful woman, her soothing voice calming every single point of your body as she speaks, giving a sense of comfort. Her hair is always in a bun, making it easier for her to do her job properly.
Ahhh Nela! I'm sorry, I almost ran into you. It's beautiful outside, I've been yearning to see the sun again! Ever since those clouds came I was shunned into my room. It got boring.
Irene said, apologizing for almost brushing her shoulder against Nela, her dark hair falling on her face, covering her jade eyes, making her face unseen. Her dress was full of faint stains from the potions and burn marks from the lamps, as if she did a whole lot of experiments while it was gloomy outside.
You can't go out like that Miss Irene! You have to at least look proper. Here, brush your hair and I'll get you some clean dresses.
Irene scoffed but agreed to the idea. She can't go outside looking like a total wreck, after all, she will go and meet her friend Gloria who just came back with her mother, from a meeting with her witch covenant. How cool is that?
Irene brushed her hair, tying a small part of it with a ribbon, her dark slightly curly hair now falling on her shoulders, elegant. She washed her face, putting on a bit of red lipstick on her lips, just for the looks of it. She came downstairs wearing a clean, newly picked dress, with sleeves made out of a silky material, falling beautifully around her slim arms, a blue west adding dynamic to the white dress, and cute blue shoes sticking out on the bottom, barely visible from the dresses length, going perfectly in combination with her jade-colored eyes, full of happiness and excitement.
Thank you for your time Nela, I'll be going now. I'll make sure not to take too long!
Irene sincerely thanked Nela, who's been her biggest supporter in life. Leaving the house, the sun kissed her face with the warmth that she longed for days. She picked a few daisies from her yard, as a gift to Gloria's mother, since those were her favorite flowers, and continued down the road, to a bit more isolated house. It wasn't that far from the town, but u did need to walk a bit. That walk is soothing to Irene. The distance didn't matter to her, the view and ambiance were what made that walk special. Flowers next to the river bridge, fish swimming through the river, avoiding wood scraps that the small flood brought with itself. The bridge looked cleaner nonetheless, people greeting Irene with smiles on their faces. Arriving on the spot, there was a small house, covered in moss and ivy, still looking cute and cosy from the outside. Small clouds of smoke coming through the chimney, and a never-forgetting smell of apple pie became stronger and stronger as Irene was walking closer to the door.
*Knock knock* Hello, it's Irene! Are you home, Gloria?
Irene knocked on the door, hearing footsteps coming at rapid speed towards the door. They opened wide revealing a slim, short figure, with long blonde hair, her deep blue eyes looking at Irene, as if she was waiting the whole day for this moment to happen. She hugged Irene tightly and screeched with excitement.
Irene! I've been expecting you ever since we came back! Come in, come in! Mum's making her special apple pie, so you're here at the perfect time.
*Irene laughs* I've been waiting for an opportunity to come here too, I've got so much to tell you about my recent research!
Irene enters the house, sitting down on a bench, covered in pillows acting as cushions, not the fanciest place, but it sure is comfortable to live in. The fireplace crackling on the side, giving them a nice and warm ambiance, perfect for talking and spending time together.
I've got so much to tell you..it was my first time at the covenant meeting! I'm so glad Mum let me join them for the event.
Gloria! We agreed not to share information about the covenant meeting with others!
Gloria's mum added from the kitchen. Well, it was obvious that she wasn't allowed to tell anyone, anything about the covenant meeting since those are exclusive information only available to covenant members, and leaking those would mean big trouble.
Agh mum. I know we said that, but it wouldn't hurt to tell Irene, right? She will be a member of the covenant soon enough too, right?
Ah, Gloria, it's okay, you don't have to get yourself in trouble for this
But--
No buts, we'll talk about something else, we shouldn't just spill out classified information like that right Aunt Maria?
Irene took the side of Gloria's mother, Maria. She didn't want to cause any trouble, though she was fairly interested in the covenants business, after all, she wanted to be a wizard on her own.
You should learn a bit from Irene, Gloria. She might be younger than you but she sure does understand the grown-up business!
Added Maria, coming out of the kitchen with the pie in her hands. It smelled delicious as ever. Being the guest, Irene was polite as always when being a guest at another person's house, she talked to them casually, about magic, about being a wizard... but then came the "plans for the future" subject, that was quite the sensitive subject for Irene.
So, are you going to try and get into the Wizard Academy, Irene? I might try and get in, but I'll start focusing on learning magic as soon as we finish school!
Irene looked at her with unease. She wasn't sure if that was a good idea. Her parents want her to pursue a career in trading, so she can inherit their fortune and their family job and continue the legacy.
I don't know... I'd love to go to Wizard Academy, but my parents already are complicated enough, I don't want to get into an argument with them...
But if you don't fight for yourself you will never reach your goal, we trained together, and you were even better than me in some spells! It'd be a big shame if you just throw away all that hard work and time that you poured into it.
Gloria told her, determined to make Irene stand up for herself, it shouldn't be much of a problem if she tried, right?
Listen, I'd try and talk to your parents for you, but you know how that would go, Irene.
Maria added, knowing that the history between her and Irene's parents could make this situation worse if she got involved. This is leaving Irene in a really difficult situation.
It's complicated. I will try my best and make them support my decision, otherwise, I'll just take all my allowance that I accumulated so far and leave!
That's a really tough decision, Irene. Are you sure you want to execute it that way?
Maria said with recognisable worry in her tone.
I've decided! It will be that way! I can't just let them project their lifestyle on me. I want to become a Wizard!!
Irene yelled, now full of confidence and resolve. This conversation led her to make a perfect plan. This plan is so well thought out, she spent the whole time coming back home thinking about it.
Maria promised that she would send a letter to the Grand Library of Duskstorm. Sadly, she is not able to tutor both Gloria and Irene anymore. Since the Wizard Academy is really hard to get into, she wanted to help Irene by asking an old friend of hers to tutor her. He is currently a librarian at the Grand Library. She told Irene that she'll get a letter of acceptance.
Irene, upon coming home, spotted her parents coming back earlier than expected. That was a bit unpleasant since she didn't inform them of her leaving to see Gloria. She tried sneaking so she could get to the stairs, lifting her dress's skirt so she wouldn't trip, making small, careful steps. As she got to the stairs, she heard her father talk to Nela. Something about Irene going out without their permission? That's awful. Poor Nela, it's not her fault. As she lifted her head after listening to her father's and Nela's conversation, she came eye to eye with her mother, now going downstairs.
There you are, young lady! Where have you been? Why didn't you at least leave a note or something?! I've been worried sick!
Her mother stroked her cheek, hugging Irene as if she hadn't seen her in ages. Visible worry on her face, she waited for Irene to answer her questions, guiding her downstairs towards the kitchen.
Irene looked guilty. She slowly went into the kitchen, walking in front of her mother.
Where have you been, Irene?
She asked her again, now with a more intense voice, almost yelling at her.
I was outside, taking a walk, haven't you seen the weather? I'm not a kid anymore, I can navigate myself in our neighborhood. I'm 22 mum... no need to worry about such minor things!
Irene assured her. Her mother looked at her with worry and suspicion. Now entering the kitchen, Irene sees her father yelling at Nela who currently looks like a dog in the rain. After he spotted his wife and Irene, he stopped yelling at Nela and turned to them. Walking towards them.
Have you lost your mind? Why are you walking out like that, don't you have parents to inform of your whereabouts?!
He yelled at her. Nela looked at Irene, worried, trying to console everyone.
I apologize about the commotion, it was my fault lady Pelina, sir Jeremiah, I didn't want young miss to spend another day inside the house, it is a beautiful day outside--
I heard enough from you! Now go and do your job! Let us handle this situation. You are dismissed.
Jeremiah turned and yelled at Nela again. Nela rushed around them and left the house to go to the backyard, visibly shaken and taken aback by Jeremiah's outburst.
Now you young lady, I want you to tell us where have you been.
Jeremiah sat Irene and Pelina down, now all of them sitting at the dining table. Irene raises her brow, confused about why are they so aggressive. It's not the first time I just left without saying anything, there is something fishy about this whole situation.
Father, I assure you, I was taking a walk near the river! I don't know why is this such a big problem all of a sudden. I've gone out like this before, and it wasn't much of a fuss, is everything okay now?
Her father, Jeremiah, looks at her with anger and disbelief in his eyes, burying his face in his hands, and going through his hair. Leaning back on his chair, he looks at her again. Irene's mother, Pelina, sat frozen and didn't utter a word.
Then, why did a little birdie tell me that u went into the forest... towards the witch's house?!
Jeremiah yelled out, hit the table with his fist, and looked right at Irene's jade eyes. Irene sat stunned, unable to speak from all the fright her father caused, a tear could be seen going down her cheek.
I... I really should go now, I don't want to repeat this conversation over and over again. I've told you numerous times that I want to become a Wizard, and not follow your steps!
WHY ARE YOU LIKE THIS? WHAT DID I DO WRONG IN RAISING YOU?! I should've just married you off like your uncle did with your cousin, and I would've avoided this!
Jeremiah still yelled, spouting a bunch of sensitive topics. Irene felt betrayed and given up on. Her mother just sat there and put her hand on Irene's shoulder, still not saying anything.
You haven't changed your attitude not even a single bit father! No wonder none of your sisters want to talk to you, you always think about your benefit! You are making a fuss about me going out to spend time with your elder sister just because you decided to be an asshole, and not make up for something that happened over 15 years ago!
She stood up, shoving her mother's hand off her shoulder, running towards the stairs, her face wet from all the tears, her lipstick smeared from all the sobbing, she ignored her father's continuous yelling and locked herself in her room. Once again, she was alone. At this point, could only think about taking all her clothes, money, and equipment, and escaping in the night. Running away. Going to Duskstorm on her initiative, doesn't sound so bad right? She consoled herself, trying to get herself together. As she got up and took her suitcase, she heard a knock on her door. It was Nela.
Miss Irene, are you there? Can I come in?
Irene got up to the door, opened it, and let Nela in, closing the door behind her. Nela looked worried, as if she heard the rest of the conversation. It would be a surprise not to hear it, from all the yelling and screaming.
I know your father loves you, he didn't mean to be like that... you shouldn't hold a grudge against him.
It's easy for you to say, Nela! *sobs* It's been like this my whole life! Projecting his ideal life plan on me, I can't stand it anymore!
She said as she started packing her dresses, shirts, and pants.. some alchemy equipment she had on the side, her wand that she used for small cantrip spells. Nela got up and helped pack everything neatly, so she could have as much space available.
Why are you helping me, Nela? You know that this could get you in big trouble... I don't want you to suffer the consequences anymore.
Nela smiled, looked at Irene, hugged her tightly, and assured her not to worry. She wiped Irene's tears off her face and hid the suitcase under her bed.
Listen to me very carefully, Irene. If you want to get out of here, you know you would need to flee the country? That's the only way your parents won't be able to act in timely manner.
Nela said, holding Irene's hands and looking her in the eyes.
I know that. I just need to get to Duskstorm somehow, I could just wait for the letter from the Grand Library... if they accept me as their pupil though....
Irene said, looking at the side with uncertainty... not sure if her newly sewn plan could work, or would be just torn to pieces.
Don't worry Miss Irene, I'll give you a part of my savings. I know it will surely help you a lot. I don't have much but it's enough to keep you going for at least two to three months.
Irene looks at her, sobbing and crying again, hugging Nela tightly. She sure wasn't expecting her to say or do this.
Nela, are you sure? I could always take some money from my parents--
No no, Irene! I insist! I don't want you to suffer anymore, and taking your parents's money will just worsen the situation. It will be better like this, don't worry. Come and lay down, get some sleep, tomorrow I'll make your favorite breakfast.
Irene looked through the window as Nela said that.. damn, it was already evening. You could hear owls on the branches of naked trees. Autumn nights can really be peaceful and calming. Irene got dressed in her sleepwear and got into bed. Thinking about everything that happened. This whole day was a blast. Irene was filled with a mixture of excitement and guilt, but she knew this was the only thing she could do to live the way she intended to.
Good night Nela, thank you for everything. I hope they will have the heart to talk to me tomorrow, I don't want to leave without resolving things with them.
I'll be there to assist you, good night.
Nela nodded and slowly left Irene's room. As only sounds of owls and crickets filled the room, Irene used some of her magic to make small stars float around her room, making dim light and a cozy environment. Laying on her back, she couldn't help but pray to get the invitation letter, before she slowly drifted into slumber.
Morning came, the sun started shining through the window of Irene's room, illuminating it. Irene woke up, rubbing her sleepy eyes, she looked around the room. It seemed even sadder. Before, it looked unorganized and full of random things. Now, it looks as empty as ever. She got up slowly, brushing her hair and teeth, and changing her clothes to something more sophisticated. A white shirt, with frills on the front, and a gem button. Pants matching the color of fallen autumn leaves, and leather shoes. Holding a coat and a beret in her left hand, going downstairs into the kitchen. As she walked into the kitchen, she spotted Nela, baking pancakes with sweet berries. Irene greeted her, sitting down at the dining table. An uneasy feeling washed over her stomach, mixing with hunger she felt upon smelling the pancakes.
Good morning Miss Irene, have you slept well? *puts the plate on the table, a small tower of pancakes in it* I've just made you pancakes, they will need a few minutes to cool down.
Irene nodded, telling her how she slept. Still kind of sleepy, she leaned her head back on the chair. Nela then quickly got up, as if she remembered something. Got into the living room and from behind the stairs, got a small box and a letter.
Miss Irene, I think your new glasses have arrived today, I forgot to mention it earlier.
Irene leaned ahead, thanked her, and took the letter and the box. She first opened the box, since she couldn't quite read the letter well without glasses. In the box were sitting such cute, round glasses, with a black frame and purple shine on the glass. They were perfect. As soon as she put them on, she could finally see the world clearly again. Now, looking at the letter.. she realized that it wasn't a follow-up letter for the glasses. It was an unusual one- It had numerous colors on it and patterns that seemed as if they were moving! The letter was sealed with a greenish wax seal, with a pattern of a book on it. She slowly opened the letter, and as she did, the paper came out itself. Unfolding and levitating right in front of her eyes. Nela looked at her amazed, stunned in place. Reading the letter, it said:
" ----Regarding a formal request from my personal friend, I've read your resume. I'm quite impressed someone who barely started learning about magic is willing to become a great Wizard and learn at the Wizard Academy. That isn't an easy task young lady. I shall take you under my wing and help you get the knowledge you seek. Are you up to the task? Let us find out. There should be a carriage waiting for you in front of your house at 6 pm sharp. Don't forget anything, you won't be coming home soon!
Sincerely, Helion of the Grand Library of Dawnstorm"
Her eyes widened at the contents of the letter, and she suddenly got up and jumped from excitement, then straightening up before she tightly hugged Nela, telling her that she had been accepted. She picked up her coat put her beret on her head, and rushed as fast as she could, to tell Gloria and Aunt Maria bout the letter.
Wait, Miss Irene! You haven't eaten anything yet!
I'll eat when I come back, sorry!
Upon passing the river, she could see Gloria, picking up fallen chestnuts. She rushed to her, yelling her name to get her attention.
Gloria! Oh Gloria, I must share this with you!
Is everything okay, you look like you've been runnig since you left your house.
Because I was! Look! *shows the letter* I got the letter, that friend of your mum's, he accepted the request!! I'll go to Duskstorm!!!
Gloria's eyes widen, visibly excited for Irene, she hugs her, dropping the basket with all the chestnuts. After giving her a small spin she let her go and looked into her face.
I'm so glad, I'm so happy for you!
Thank you, Gloria, thank Maria in my name, I'm indebted to you!
They continue cheering, and as Gloria realizes she dropped all the chestnuts, she kneels to pick them all up again, Irene now helping her with them. After that, Irene said her goodbyes to Gloria and went home again to prepare for the long journey. Since the carriage will be here at 6 pm sharp to pick her up, she will have just enough time to say her goodbyes to her parents, who will come home an hour before her department. Nela helped her pack another bag with some food and rations since Duskstorm is far away from here. She finally had her breakfast, and now only needed to wait.
Irene was impatient. She got her bag into the living room, her suitcase next to the bag. Waiting for her parents to come home, so she can give them the news and give them a proper goodbye. She does know this could and will end up in a huge argument, but arrangements are already made and can not be interrupted.
Time slowly passed by, Irene filled out some forms that were required by the library, sipping tea and eating cookies with Nela.
Are you sure they won't cause much of a scene, Irene? I hope sir Jeremiah won't do anything bad...
Don't worry about such details, Nela. If I were to think about all of that right now, I would've gone mad long ago.
You are right, just.. please, be careful, alright?
Irene nodded. Not that she didn't think about that whole situation, but looking at it this way. Neither her mother nor father can change this now, they currently don't have the time to either think or act. As soon as they arrive, Irene will just state the facts, and they can't do anything about them.
They talked the time away, remembering many memories they've made together, making sure Irene hasn't forgotten anything.
Soon after, the clock strikes at 5:20 pm. Pelina and Jeremiah enter the house, not even noticing Irene and Nela sitting in the living room. Pelina immediately started brushing her dark hair with a brush, with an exhausted look on her face, her blue eyes gazing on the mirror, just now noticing Irene and Nela, drinking tea and eating cookies in the living room. Jeremiah went to the kitchen and got a glass of water, coming out to the living room and sitting down right opposite Irene.
His deep green eyes looking at her sharply, running his hand through his hair, he leaned back into the chair. It seems that Nela has given them a heads up too.
So.. this is it I guess? I think you have something to explain.
Irene looked at him, with a blank expression on her face, trying to compose herself. Her mother, Pelina, soon joined them at the table, looking at Irene with slight sadness.
I've always wanted this. This has been my dream ever since I found out about magic. I've got an opportunity to learn from one of the best Wizards. It is pretty far away from home, but I've already planned on writing you guys letters frequently. I want you to know that I don't hate you, I love both of you sincerely, but it broke my heart knowing that I'll never be good enough for you, especially for you, father. I'll do my best and become a great Wizard, and show you that it wasn't a waste of time and that it was something worth living for!
Irene said, looking mostly at her father, who she expected to yell and scream at her. After her statement, Jeremiah stood up and hugged both Irene and her mother tightly. She was a bit confused, but understood the action as an act of love towards her, which she rarely had to experience since they weren't home much. Her gaze narrowed, trying to prevent tears.
I just wanted my little girl to live a comfortable life, without having to sweat and work much, but if it's your dream and choice, you better fulfill that dream, and not let it stay a dream.
They all let their emotions take over, they hugged and cried, talked about the good times, and laughed. Irene hadn't experienced these moments with her parents in a long time. Most of the time they would come home from work, immediately laying in bed, exhausted, or just starting arguments about Irene's bad habits.
With time passing, they could hear the carriage arrive in front of the house. Her father, Jeremiah, helped Irene get her stuff on the carriage, they all hugged one last time, and Irene got into the carriage and left. It was hard leaving home, she never left her province before. Only once she went to Vindoville to visit her father's youngest sister, but that was years ago...
Slowly riding in the carriage, Irene was enjoying the view around her. Animals preparing for the winter, leaves falling from trees, and wind making them dance around the sky.
Is it really true?! I'm going to Duskstorm to study magic!?!
She asked herself, just now starting to think, this is too good to be true right? Everything went well, I mean, why wouldn't it? It all went smooth as butter. Now, all she needs to do is wait, and travel for a week or two, until she arrives. The pressure from overthinking the conversations over and over had let go, and she could relax through the journey, happy that her parents accepted her decision- even through she supposes it is just a part of their acceptance.