Allies in Shadows

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The atmosphere in Morrison's living room had transformed into a makeshift training ground. The room, once a place of quiet comfort, now buzzed with the energy of ancient spells and rituals. Candles flickered in a circle around the room, casting long, wavering shadows on the walls. The witches, Seraphina and her coven, had set up an array of magical artifacts and grimoires, creating an environment brimming with arcane power.

Morrison stood at the center of the circle, her eyes wide with a mixture of awe and apprehension. She wore a simple, comfortable outfit—a dark hoodie and jeans—suitable for the intense session ahead. Seraphina, with her commanding presence and calm demeanor, was the focal point of the training, while the other witches observed and assisted as needed.

"Alright, Morrison," Seraphina began, her voice steady and authoritative. "Today, we will focus on harnessing your innate magical abilities. You've already displayed some proficiency with spells, but we need to refine your skills and ensure you're ready for what lies ahead."

Morrison nodded, trying to steady her nerves. "I'm ready. I want to learn everything I can to fight Ross."

Seraphina smiled reassuringly. "Good. Let's begin with something fundamental: grounding and centering. It's crucial for channeling your energy effectively."

The witches guided Morrison through a series of exercises designed to help her connect with her magical core. Seraphina demonstrated a breathing technique, instructing Morrison to close her eyes and focus on her breath. "Feel the energy within you. It's always there, waiting to be tapped into. Breathe deeply and let it flow."

Morrison followed the instructions, her breaths gradually becoming more controlled. As she concentrated, she felt a tingling sensation in her fingertips, a sign that her magical energy was awakening. Seraphina's eyes narrowed with approval.

"Good. Now, let's move on to basic spellcasting," Seraphina said, retrieving a small vial of shimmering powder from her bag. She poured a bit of the powder onto a piece of parchment, which had a protective circle inscribed on it. "This is a focusing agent. Use it to amplify your intent."

Morrison took the vial and watched as Seraphina demonstrated a simple incantation. "Incorporeal beings of night, lend me strength and guide my sight," Seraphina chanted, and the powder glowed brightly before dispersing into the air.

"Now, it's your turn," Seraphina said, handing the vial to Morrison. "Focus on a specific intention—something you want to achieve with the spell."

Morrison hesitated, her mind racing. She took a deep breath and recited the incantation as best as she could, feeling a surge of energy as she did so. The powder shimmered, but it didn't produce the dramatic effect Seraphina had achieved.

Seraphina observed closely, her expression thoughtful. "You're on the right track, but your focus needs to be sharper. Channel your intention clearly. Think of what you want the spell to accomplish and visualize it."

Morrison nodded, trying to clear her mind and concentrate. She took a few more attempts, each time with greater precision. The results were still modest, but the witches encouraged her with supportive nods and words.

"Excellent effort," Seraphina said, stepping forward. "Now, let's move to a more advanced exercise. We'll work on shielding—a vital skill for protecting yourself against magical attacks."

The witches arranged several enchanted objects around the room, each representing a different form of magical threat. Seraphina instructed Morrison to visualize a protective barrier around her, one that would shield her from harm.

Morrison struggled at first, but as she practiced, she could feel the barrier forming—a faint, shimmering shield that appeared to ripple around her. Seraphina's eyes gleamed with satisfaction.

Mystic Bonds: The Tale of Ross and MorrisonWhere stories live. Discover now