The Echoes of Rivalry & Ruin (The Acamancy Series I)

Chapter 16: The Oasis

Once again, Paxxon reaches his hand out to me to help me to my feet and guides me to throw away my garbage. This time he keeps my hand in his as he leads me to a very small patch of grass next to the wind tunnels. It is under a very large, old appearing tree. It is quiet and very secluded, nothing like the fountain in the busy area I have taken as my own personal spot. I like this change in scenery. And I like my company even more. Paxx leans against the tree and sits down in the grass below it. I take a few moments to walk around and take in the area. There are vines on the ground, in the tree, just spread throughout. The tree is large and a willow tree, I believe, so the branches and leaves and such hang low to give more privacy. Under the tree is the only patch of grass, there are a few rocks but nothing else. Outside of this green oasis are stretches of dirt and man-made tunnels, piles of leaves, and tiny pebbles all used for the Wind Manis to practice different skills. On the opposite side of the tunnel and dirt are some classic looking Autumn trees with colorful leaves and partially barren branches. This green oasis looks so out of place in its surroundings, it's no wonder Paxx likes it here.

After a few minutes of taking in my surroundings, I joined Paxxon in the grass. He has been silent this whole time, focus shifting from watching me, to something very interesting on his boots. He seems nervous, more nervous than I know that I am. I sit across from the tree, and Paxxon, in the grass, cross legged and face him.

"How did you find this little oasis?" I ask.

"Oasis is indeed an intriguing term for my preferred space of solitude. I constructed this area; while the tree was already here, I modified its branches, introduced grass, and ensured it was as secluded as possible. My father has brought me to The Academy for as long as I can remember. When I was about 14 years old, having shown signs of my abilities for several years, I was withdrawn from traditional educational settings that I had known up to that point. I was expected to continue my general education independently, but my father emphasized that my focus should shift to developing my Plant Manipulation Skills rather than focusing on subjects such as Mathematics, Literature, or Chemistry. He arranged for me to attend specialized courses here; for instance, my Chemistry classes were replaced with Manipulation Genetics, and my government studies turned into the History of Acamancy. Instead of engaging in Mathematics, Art, Geography, or other subjects typically taught in a high school setting, I received training in Manipulation Skills, participated in Annual Elemental Events, and devoted countless hours to independent study in the library, exploring every text available. I needed a place that I could call my own, where I would not be subject to the scrutiny of fellow students or my father's watchful eye. Thus, I created this space to study General Education and ensure that I remained literate, educated, and on par with my peers. I delved into classic literature beyond Acamancy texts, practiced chemical reactions, solved mathematical equations, and created artwork. I engaged in activities that I deemed necessary to maintain a sense of normalcy in my life," Paxxon recounted, gazing thoughtfully into the distance, avoiding direct eye contact as he spoke.

"Wow Paxxon, I cannot imagine what that had to have been like for you. So young, so alone. I am so sorry that you went through that," I say.

Paxxon remains staring away from me, again finding his boots to be the most interesting thing there is.

"Please do not pity me, everyone around me looks at me with unknowing hatred for the rumors that I caused harm to others or our beloved school. Or they look at me with pity because they believe that they understand the truth of my entire existence, they are under the impression they understand who I am at my core, but they do not. No one truly understands me. But I was under a hopeful impression you could be different from the rest. You, Emalyne, whom are so open in your emotion, honest and true within your heart, I do hope that you can see past any untrue words you have heard, and let me show you, could that be possible," Paxxon asked me, looking as vulnerable as i have ever seen. His walls were down, even just a bit, and I couldn't help but nod and agree.