The Struggle With Stasis

The training grounds of the Briston Estate were bustling with activity as Khione prepared for another intensive session with her time magic. The area, nestled between ancient oak trees and surrounded by stone walls, provided a secluded environment perfect for honing her abilities. Today, however, Khione felt a sense of apprehension. She was scheduled to work on a skill she had been struggling with for months: stasis.

Stasis, the ability to freeze objects or people in time, was a critical component of her time magic. It required immense concentration and control, demanding that she maintain a delicate balance between power and precision. Despite her best efforts, Khione found it nearly impossible to master.

Khione's mentor, Master Rylan, stood waiting for her. A seasoned mage with a calm demeanor, Rylan had been guiding Khione since her abilities first manifested. His patience and wisdom were invaluable, yet even he couldn't fully alleviate her frustration.

"Good morning, Khione," Rylan greeted her warmly. "Are you ready to continue our work on stasis?"

Khione nodded, though her expression was clouded with determination and a hint of anxiety. "Yes, Master Rylan. I'm ready."

Rylan smiled encouragingly. "Remember, it's about finding the balance within yourself. Stasis is not just about freezing time; it's about harmonizing your inner energy with the flow of time around you."

Khione took a deep breath, trying to center herself. She focused on a small stone in front of her, channeling her energy into freezing it in place. Her hands glowed with a faint blue light as she concentrated, willing the stone to stop moving through time.

For a moment, it seemed to work. The stone shimmered, its movement slowing to a crawl. But just as quickly, the glow faded, and the stone resumed its natural state. Khione clenched her fists in frustration.

"Why can't I get it right?" she muttered, her voice tinged with exasperation.

Rylan placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You're putting too much pressure on yourself. Relax, Khione. Let the magic flow naturally."

Khione nodded, though she felt anything but relaxed. She tried again, this time focusing on her breathing, attempting to let go of her frustration. The blue light reappeared, enveloping the stone, but it flickered and dissipated once more.

"Ugh!" Khione exclaimed, stepping back in frustration. "It feels like I'm hitting a wall. No matter how hard I try, I can't maintain the stasis."

Rylan observed her carefully. "Tell me, what do you feel when you attempt stasis?"

Khione sighed, trying to articulate her struggle. "It's like... there's a barrier in my mind. I can sense the flow of time, but when I try to stop it, my energy scatters. It's as if my magic isn't strong enough."

Rylan nodded thoughtfully. "It's not about strength alone, Khione. Stasis requires a deep connection to the present moment. You're fighting against time instead of working with it."

Khione closed her eyes, taking a moment to process his words. She needed to change her approach, to find a way to harmonize with the flow of time rather than forcefully halt it.

"Let's try a different exercise," Rylan suggested. "Instead of focusing on freezing the stone, try to slow down its movement gradually. Feel the ebb and flow of time, and gently guide it to a standstill."

Khione nodded, feeling a glimmer of hope. She focused on the stone again, this time allowing herself to become more attuned to the subtle currents of time around her. She envisioned the stone's movement slowing, inching towards stasis.

The blue light returned, steadier this time. Khione felt a faint connection to the stone, sensing its resistance but also its willingness to be guided. The stone's movement slowed, and for a brief moment, it hovered in a near-still state.

But once again, the connection broke, and the stone resumed its normal pace. Khione let out a frustrated sigh, though she noticed the improvement.

"Better," Rylan said encouragingly. "You're beginning to understand. It's a process, Khione. Each step forward, no matter how small, is progress."

Khione nodded, though she couldn't fully shake her frustration. "I just want to master it. I feel like I'm letting everyone down by not being proficient enough."

Rylan shook his head. "You're not letting anyone down. Mastery takes time, especially with a skill as complex as stasis. Be patient with yourself."

Khione took his words to heart, though the frustration lingered. She knew she had to keep pushing, to find the balance within herself that would unlock her full potential.