Coldsnap: Harbinger of Ice

Chapter 16: Becoming an Aspect

The expansive main chamber of the Tidal Throne was fully packed with all the mages of the Water Sect, with Coldsnap, Firebird, and Leo being hailed as special guests. Those who were unable to find seats in the tables on the ground were instead directed to a series of floating, semi-solid bleachers conjured by Hydraxus, enabling them to get a good view of the whole ceremony. 

In addition, Coldsnap, Firebird, and Leo all sat in a set of special box seats which were built into the wall and specifically sectioned off for the three of them, each drinking a glass of Hydraxus's newest concoction; fruit-infused water. Or at least.....they thought it was new. 

"This actually tastes really good," Leo remarked. "I don't really understand why Hydraxus usually reserves it for special occasions, though." 

"Well, you've already seen that the Water Sect also grows plants on the side," Firebird replied. "It makes sense that they'd combine the fruit with the water to create a beverage. Although.....I'd imagine it takes a while to make....." 

Coldsnap chuckled. "Seriously, guys? The people of Earth already beat them to it by years!" 

Firebird raised an eyebrow. "Really?" 

"Yeah! I think they called it.....Fruit2O or something like that. Fruit-flavored water. Very common there. I wish I could've brought back a bottle so I could show you....." 

"No, no, no, I believe you. You've been on Earth for a much longer time than me, after all," Firebird said. "I'm pretty sure I can take your word for it." 

"I can second that," Leo agreed. "I usually saw packs of Fruit2O here and there whenever I visited grocery stores. Never bothered to check them out, though." Then, he pointed down towards the main entryway to the central room. "Guys, look! I think I can see Keena!" 

The two girls looked in the same direction Leo was gesturing, and indeed, the young water mage stood there at the distant end of the laid-out carpet. Just a few hours ago, she likely would've been shaking in her shoes and sweating bullets, her nerves getting the best of her. Instead, her recent conversation with Coldsnap had brought her confidence and radiance back, and she took a deep breath as she surveyed the audience around her with a smile. 

I can't thank you enough for everything, Coldsnap...... Keena thought to herself. One of these days.....I'll work up the courage to admit how I really feel about you....

Hydraxus exited one of the side rooms and walked towards his throne, stopping on a spot  directly in front of it. As he turned to briefly face Keena, the murmuring crowd fell silent. 

The Water Sect leader cleared his throat. "Welcome one and all, to this wondrous night. The water mage who stands before me is quite the amazing sight. She has worked and toiled and trained to no end; an icon of the Water Sect, and an unfailing friend. Although the road was long and hard, she kept the faith and never lowered her guard. And now her effort has paid off in spades; in her tumultuous torrents and vicious cascades. Keena, my pupil, look how much you've grown.....tonight, we now see you as one of our own." 

Keena approached Hydraxus with great assurance. She was about to receive a rank that she had trained for for most of her life, and she had Coldsnap and her friends to thank for it. 

She took a knee before the Water Sect leader. "Greetings, teacher," she said. Usually, their relations were more casual, but because they were in a public setting and she was being recognized, she saw it fit to be more respectful than normal. 

"A warm welcome to you, too, Keena. In your honor I have gathered this populated arena. It's always beautiful when someone reaches this stage; it shows that they're ready to be a true mage. So as your mind becomes still, and you hold your staff steady.....I shall ask you one more time about whether you are ready."