Many weeks passed from the sage’s return. She taught me all there was related to the world. She had given me all the insights needed in my meditations. But I felt there was one component sorely lacking in her instruction. That I hadn’t learned how to use the powers.

Though she put me through excruciating exercises—that no doubt your own teacher had you also perform—not once had she asked me to unleash the rage of the elements. Neither did Salam, but I expected more from her tutelage.

Yet there at last came a time when I could confront her regarding this.

She brought me to a waterfall a ways from the city. Here she had me meditate on its waters. With what little understanding I had of the powers, I was able to hold myself upon its surface.

When I was comfortably seated, she said, “Now seek to engage your mind on the water, as you remain seated.”

I had rarely smiled since her coming, but my expressionless face turned to smile, and I cried in joy, “Will I finally be learning how to use the elements?”

Suddenly, I fell through the water and tried as hard as I could to reach for the surface. I kept sinking and sinking. In a matter of moments, I was brought to the surface, levitating. But not by my own devices. The sage held her finger pointed upward. And I saw as she moved it, the air underneath alighted me like a bird to my original position.

The movement of her finger was gentle and graceful. Just as I initially perceived her. And I would’ve continued to think as such, were it not for the ordeals she me put through since her coming.

“As you now know, holding your concentration will prove difficult over the waters,” she said. “To answer your question, yes you will learn the elements,” which made me all the more happy, “but not for the sole purpose of empowerment. Leaving aside the troubles you will have to face in the future,” which conjured not so good memories, “there is a tournament that shall be held in the city of Yudhruman, two months from now.”

Now, this piqued my interest. “What sort of tournament?”

“A battle of wits and trials,” she said. “You will have to learn chariot-racing and archery, which I presume Salam has not yet taught you.”

I shook my head.

“Well, I shall speak with him, and then we can have your training for those underway. But the elements themselves will prove more useful when you must fight your rivals one-on-one. Similar to how you fought Salam, but perhaps more deadly.”

“Deadly?” I asked, terrified. “No one’s to die, right?”

She shook her head. “The fight will be administered in the presence of various kings, officials, and sages, including me. It is in the interest of all that none shall fall, for it is likely that their children shall compete.” And I gave a sigh of relief on hearing that. “Though you and few others will be exception as far as age is concerned. Many who will compete will have already surpassed their youth, and this year’s tourney, I hear the Prince Druzash shall compete!”

I became hopeful that I might see Varey and Viruka there. But I wondered about this new prince.

“Who’s Druzash?” I asked.

“He is son to the Solar King, Asmach, direct descendant of Drizhaka, and the principal heir to the Freelands of Arhmanah,” she said proudly. “Never have I seen a child like him before! The Light waxes strong with him, and ever does he stand with excellence and grace, abiding by all moral directives. Something which you sorely lack.” That last statement quite hurt my ego. “If chance permits, befriend him, Yurva. You will have made a great ally and confidant. He will one day be your superior. Though all kings look to your father for direction and guidance, the sole discretion still remains with King Asmach, whose position is uncontested among the highest of the Marhan.”

Thinking on it, I do remember them being mentioned by Druzhat, and even Jeyath and Zajeya, but I could scarce remember the details. I wasn’t as attentive as I should’ve been in their lectures, but now, at least with Yurvaonri’s guidance, I can correct that.

“Now that it has been mentioned, you must be sure to present yourself in the best of light before the kings of the land. So let us proceed with the exercise.”

I relaxed myself. Now I had a much clearer goal in mind.

“Focus on the water.”

I did as she said. My eyes were once again closed, but my attention was directed toward the water beneath my feet.

“Now slowly, cause the surface to ripple.”

I did as she asked and coursed my power into the water. I could feel it rippling from my toes, but I also felt myself sinking. The cold of the water broke my concentration.

I sank through the water. The road ahead was an arduous one indeed.