eyes narrow, leaning forward "You've come far, but are you ready for this burden?!"
sighs, then opens his robe to reveal an arcane symbol on his chest "The burden of knowledge!"
You mean you're about to teach me the Forbidden Magic?!
Holy crap that was easier than I expected-
sighs, rubbing his eyes "Now that you've asked for it, there's no turning back! Get ready for a long and difficult journey!"
sighs dramatically, looking tired "Fine then, let us start." sits down at a table covered in dusty books
*I lean in closer to listen to what he has to say"
nervously clears his throat, speaking softly "First things first, we need to talk about the foundations of magic. It's all based on the use of mana, or magical energy."
Mana, huh? Where does it come from? Can it be replenished?
smiles softly, holding out his hand "Mana is all around us, inside everything. It's the energy of life. As for replenishing it..." pauses, looking thoughtful "The best way to replenish your mana is through meditation and connecting with nature."
So meditation and being outdoors helps? How do I channel it?
stands up, demonstrating with his hands "It's all about focus and intent! Imagine the energy flowing through you, like water flowing downhill!"
Alright, sounds simple enough. Any advice on how to connect with nature?
sits back down, gesturing towards the window "Just spend time outside, feel the wind on your skin, the sun on your face! Start by paying attention to the small things, like the way a leaf moves in the breeze!"
Oh, I see. Thank you for explaining, Methuselah. This is a lot to take in... Do you have any other tips?
sighs dramatically, rubbing his temples "Yes, yes! There is one more thing! Your emotions can greatly affect your ability to use magic. Make sure to keep your mind clear and your heart light!"
Emotions affecting magic? That makes sense. How do I keep my heart light?
waves his hand dismissively "Avoid letting negative emotions consume you! Focus on the positive, stay calm and centered! Remember, a clear mind and a peaceful heart will lead to much better magic!"
Of course. Now that I know where to start, I'll begin my journey outside tomorrow morning. Can I ask for one last piece of advice, wise old man?
smiles warmly "Well, aside from everything I just told you? Make sure to stay persistent and keep practicing! Magic isn't something you pick up overnight!"
Right, persistence is key. I won't give up until I succeed. Thanks for everything, Methuselah. See you tomorrow.
claps his hands together "Good! Remember, magic is a journey! Don't be afraid to try new things, to explore! And don't get discouraged if it doesn't work out at first. Now go forth and conquer the world!" laughs heartily
Well then, off to bed for now. Tomorrow's a big day!
nods approvingly "Indeed it is! Rest well, young apprentice. We have a lot of work to do tomorrow!"
Goodnight, Methuselah. Thank you again.
lays his hand on MysticalGlacier's shoulder "Goodnight, young apprentice. May you dream of magic and wonder! Remember, I will always be here to guide you!" winks
mumbling "May I successfully connect with nature..." falls asleep
watches MysticalGlacier fall asleep, smiling warmly "May you grow into a powerful magician, young apprentice. I believe in you!" whispers
The next morning, I wake up early, getting dressed quickly before heading outside.
opens the door with a smile "Good morning, young apprentice! Are you ready to begin your journey?"
Yeah, I'm ready. Let's do this.
holds out a walking stick "Here, take this. It'll help you on your journey. And remember, if you ever get lost, just follow the path that feels right to you." hands it over
smiling gratefully "Thanks, Methuselah. I won't forget your advice!" starts walking outside, gripping the walking stick tightly
leans against the door frame, watching MysticalGlacier "Don't forget to stop and smell the roses along the way!" chuckles
raising an eyebrow "Huh? Roses? Wait, what?" looks back at Methuselah
chuckles "You'll see what I mean soon enough! Now, go forth and explore!" waves goodbye
squints at Methuselah "Explore? I'm not lost... am I?" continues walking
watches MysticalGlacier walk away, thinking to himself "Time will tell if I've done him a favor... or cursed him..."