The Academy For The Aces: BOOK 1 OF THE ACE SERIES

Chapter 13

Chapter 13

Normal is a relative term; its standard encyclopedic meaning would be conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected. However, for Faith Holmes, normal was probably a constant subconscious intuition, even if she didn't necessarily want it to be.

In certain societies, Aces mostly hide, as they haven't been fully accepted or considered 'normal.' However, in London, to some extent, the existence of Aces has become somewhat normalized.

As the students eagerly awaited Madame Lavigne's arrival for her class, "Arcane Precision," the classroom buzzed with indistinct chatter.

"Antheia, I've been wondering, what's your brother's ability? It's quite intriguing that you both didn't inherit the musical enchantment," Faith inquired.

"That's a good question. That little trick he did in the archives was quite similar to what Onion does, isn't it?" Daiyu interjected.

"About the inheritance, I've thought about it too, but I still don't have an answer. As for his ability, it's rather straightforward—Visual Deception, in simpler terms, illusions," Antheia replied with a hint of hesitation.

Faith couldn't shake the feeling that Antheia's answers were evasive, but she decided not to push further at the moment.

Just then, Madame Lavigne entered the room, accompanied by a tall, muscular, bearded man carrying an easel and canvas.

"Thank you, Raymond," Madame Lavigne said to the man, who nodded before leaving.

"That was Professor Hoyt. You'll see more of him in his class tomorrow. I apologize for my tardiness, students. I had urgent matters to attend to," Madame Lavigne explained.

"Now let's begin. I'll be teaching you Precision, just as the name suggests," Madame Lavigne started, addressing the class. "I will instruct you on how to act swiftly and use your abilities effectively and with strategic calculation. My main focus will be on teaching you to control your ability, and using them logically rather than solely relying on instinct."

"In all due respect, Madame Lavigne, how are you going to teach us to do that?" a boy interjected, his tone skeptical. "I heard your story, and apparently, you lost control of your ability resulting in...well...your hand," he added, and everyone gasped.

Faith leaned toward Daiyu and Antheia, whispering, "What story?"

"You don't know the story? You are kidding right?" Antheia whispered back, and Faith shook her head in response, feeling a bit embarrassed that she wasn't aware of the infamous tale.

Madame Lavigne met the boy's gaze with unwavering composure. "Ah, the story of my hand," she acknowledged with a wry smile. "Yes, it's true. I once lost control of my abilities, and the consequences were indeed severe."

She walked toward the front of the classroom, her eyes scanning the attentive faces of her students. "You see, the path to mastering your abilities is not without its challenges," she began, her voice carrying a mix of authority and vulnerability. "In my case, I allowed my emotions to override my judgment, and it led to a momentary lapse in control."

Madame Lavigne raised her hand, revealing a partially covered metallic contraption that replaced her missing hand. "This was the result of my recklessness, a constant reminder of the importance of honing one's precision and restraint."

Faith couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for her teacher. She realized that, just like them, Madame Lavigne was also an Ace, with her journey of discovery and growth.

"I share my story not to frighten you or discourage you," Madame Lavigne continued, her voice steady. "Instead, it serves as a lesson that even experienced Aces must remain vigilant in their training. I've learned from my mistakes, and I must ensure you all don't make the same ones."

Faith could sense a newfound respect for Madame Lavigne, appreciating her vulnerability and determination to guide her students toward greater mastery.

"As for how I will teach you," Madame Lavigne said, returning to the topic at hand, "it will require patience, practice, and discipline. Precision is not a skill acquired overnight. It demands a deep understanding of your abilities, how they interact with your emotions, and how you can channel them with calculated focus."

She walked to the center of the room, her presence commanding attention. "Throughout this class, you will learn to control the ebb and flow of your abilities. You will engage in exercises that test your focus and discipline, and you will discover the intricate relationship between your mind, emotions, and powers."

Faith felt a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The prospect of mastering her abilities and gaining better control was thrilling, but she also understood the responsibility that came with such power.

Madame Lavigne concluded with a reassuring smile. "I am here to guide you every step of the way. The journey to precision will be challenging, but I believe in every one of you. Together, we will unlock the full potential of your abilities, and you will become Aces capable of greatness."

As the students absorbed Madame Lavigne's words, Faith felt a renewed sense of determination. She knew that the path ahead would be arduous, but with the guidance of her skilled teacher and the support of her friends, she felt ready to embark on this journey of discovery and precision.