First Lesson II

She turned back to the class, her expression softening once more. "Now, before we move forward—did everyone understand the basics I've covered so far?"

"Yes, ma'am," came the chorus of responses.

Elena's gaze swept across the classroom, her silver eyes gleaming with mischief. "Oh, it seems I have a room full of geniuses," she remarked with a playful smirk. "Well then, let's put your brilliance to the test."

The students exchanged nervous glances, realizing that her next words might not be as simple as they sounded.

"Let's see... You there." She pointed her finger directly at a boy seated in the back row. "What's the primary difference between Aether and mana?"

The boy froze, wide-eyed. "Um, Aether is... uh, the pure energy source, and mana is... how we, um, use it?"

Elena raised a delicate brow, her expression unreadable. "Close enough," she said with a slight shrug. "But don't stutter next time. Confidence is key when channeling Aether."