Tiva’s first lesson (2)

Master Ramone's was the only voice which echoed in the great hall as the trainees closed their eyes and focused their mind on the task at hand.

"I want you to forget all about yourself, your friends and your family. Clear your head of all fears, needs and desires. Imagine you are sitting alone in a dark room with only a single candle to accompany you. That is your only source of light, and your only beacon of hope."

Some of the pupils shut their eyelids tighter and gritted their teeth to enhance their concentration. Master Ramone was quick to notice the appearance of stress lines on their forehead and intervened immediately.

"You are trying to let go of things, not hold on. Free your mind. There is no burden for you to carry. Breathe and lose yourself in the vast emptiness around you," he whispered in a voice which trickled into their ears like the melodious murmur of a cool forest stream. "Relax your body and sever the ties which bind you to this world."