Clara's Gift.

Ethan arrived at the academy with just five minutes to spare. He spotted Trevor outside the classroom, and they walked in together, chatting about their respective training sessions. Today's class was particularly important; it would cover the next steps after awakening, led by none other than Miss Carmen, the principal. As they settled into their usual seats at the back of the room, Ethan couldn't shake off a feeling of anticipation.

Just as they sat down, Miss Carmen entered the classroom, her expression a mix of determination and mild exasperation. She glanced at Ethan and Trevor, who had taken their usual spot despite her countless reminders to sit in front. 'Some things never change,' she thought, sighing inwardly.

"Congratulations on your successful awakenings," she began, her voice commanding attention. "You all have one month left before you leave the confines of the 1st-year class and officially become students of Anbord Mage Academy."

The room buzzed with excitement. Ethan felt a rush of determination; he was ready to tackle whatever came next. 

"Now that you have awakened, it's crucial that you start cultivating," Miss Carmen continued, her tone shifting to a more serious note. "Cultivation requires dedication, sacrifice, and resources. But first, has anyone heard of 'Paths'?"

Ethan raised his hand, recalling Zark's explanation from earlier. Miss Carmen gestured for him to speak, and he took a deep breath. "Paths are the actual powers of a mage. It's the pinnacle of cultivation—our destination. They determine your destiny in cultivation and grant exclusive skills or abilities based on your Path. Multiple people can share the same Path, but their abilities will always be unique."

Shock rippled through the classroom, even reaching Miss Carmen's face. She hadn't expected such a thorough explanation from Ethan.

"*Cough* *cough* That's correct," she replied, regaining her composure. "Paths don't just appear; they require diligence, determination, and commitment. Paths are typically determined by your affinity or affinities. For instance, if you awaken a Fire affinity, your Path might be called the Path of Flames or the Path of Heat. 

"Cultivating a single affinity is relatively easier than for dual affinity holders. Dual affinity holders don't awaken both affinities at once; the second affinity will awaken naturally over time. It's even possible to gain a Path before fully awakening your second affinity."

Miss Carmen's eyes scanned the room as she continued. "Paths serve as a foundation for your growth, and cultivating your affinity naturally cultivates your Path as well. To do this, you'll need guidebooks and cultivation techniques, which are widely available. Low-level techniques are affordable for most, while mid-level and higher techniques can be quite expensive. There's also the option of using techniques from Spirit Beasts, although those can be unpredictable."

After her lengthy explanation, she paused for questions. Several hands shot up, and she answered queries with patience and clarity.

"Let me share a little secret with you," she said, her voice lowering conspiratorially. "There's speculation that anyone who masters their Path can manipulate it in all aspects—possibly even control who can gain that Path. They would be akin to gods in this regard."

The students exchanged awed glances, and Miss Carmen moved on to her announcements. "1. In a month and a week, the academy will organize an expedition to the Res Jungle for those without Spirit Beasts. Prepare yourselves."

Ethan's heart raced at the mention of the jungle. It was an opportunity, but it also meant challenges.

"2. You will receive your academy uniforms a week before the duel between Ethan of 1st year and Tyrant Leon of 2nd year."

Ethan nearly choked on his own breath. The news hit him like a bucket of cold water, and a wave of panic swept over him. The entire class erupted in gasps and murmurs. 

Miss Carmen suppressed a smirk as she watched Ethan's reaction. "3. After this, you'll have the rest of the day off. You can go home or use the training facilities. You've completed your studies; only the exams remain, with written tests after the expedition and practicals before the duel. Prepare well, and good luck to you all."

With that, she left the room, and the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. However, Ethan felt a knot of anxiety tightening in his stomach at the thought of his upcoming duel. Trevor, noticing his friend's distress, came over to offer support. 

"Hey, don't sweat it. You'll figure it out," he reassured, though Ethan could see the concern mirrored in Trevor's eyes. They both left the classroom, drawing curious glances from their classmates. Lamair, being in year two, wasn't around to join them.

Suddenly, Clara burst into the training facilities, Emily right behind her. "Ethan!" she called, her voice filled with urgency.

The boys turned, surprised. Clara looked slightly flustered as she approached Ethan. "C... C... Can I talk to you for a sec? In... private?" Without waiting for an answer, she grabbed his hand and pulled him toward one of the private cabins.

Inside, Clara hesitated for a moment, her cheeks flushed. "I'm sorry for everything that's happening... I... I... I. Please take this!" She quickly shoved a small book into his hands. "See you later!" Before Ethan could respond, she dashed out, leaving him bewildered.

Ethan stared at the blue-covered book in his hands, its title reading, "Guide to Harnessing Willpower and Telekinesis: All Volumes Compiled." His jaw dropped. This was more than just a gift; it was a treasure. Guidebooks weren't exactly cheap, especially one that compiled all volumes. How had she even managed to get this for him?

As the realization sank in, he couldn't help but notice the infatuated glint in Clara's eyes before she had run off, a look he recognized from Harley. It made him feel lightheaded. 

Trevor, standing in front of Ethan with a goofy grin, broke the spell. "Dude, she's really into you! You've got two girls madly in love with you now. What's your secret?"

Ethan, still reeling from the events, shook his head, caught between disbelief and elation. "I—I don't know, man. It's all so… crazy."

Trevor chuckled, nudging him playfully. "Well, just remember to keep your head straight. With all that's happening, it's easy to get distracted."

Ethan nodded, his mind swirling with thoughts of Clara and Harley, each of them vying for his attention in their own ways. With the looming duel and the pressure of cultivating his newfound abilities, he realized he had to navigate these relationships carefully. As he prepared to delve deeper into his training, he couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of a much more complicated journey.