Chapter 33: The Familiar Bond
The next morning, the Academy buzzed with excitement. Students hurried through the halls, their chatter filled with speculation about the upcoming Witches' Guide Selection. It was a time of year that marked a turning point for young witches-when they would bond their souls to a familiar being, a magical companion who would be their guide and partner for life.
Joy walked into her first class of the day, a lecture on Magical Rituals and Bonds. The room buzzed with anticipation as Professor Astera, a tall, stern woman with sharp features and a flowing emerald robe, waved her wand to silence the chatter.
"Settle down, everyone," she said, her voice firm yet resonating with authority. "Today, we'll discuss the most sacred rite of passage for any witch-the Witches' Guide Selection."
The room grew quiet, every student leaning forward in anticipation. Joy glanced around and saw her friends scattered across the room. Zephyr sat near the back, idly twirling a quill between their fingers, while Ash sat closer to the front, his light brown curls glowing under the enchanted chandeliers. Willard waved at Joy from the other side of the room, his green eyes bright with enthusiasm.
"As you all know," Professor Astera began, "this event is not merely a tradition. It is a test of your character, your magic, and your ability to form a bond of trust and respect with a familiar. The familiars are magical beings, and they do not choose their witch lightly."
She waved her wand, and an illusion appeared in the air-a majestic phoenix, its fiery wings casting a warm glow, soaring alongside a sleek black wolf with glowing blue eyes.
"These creatures are more than companions," Astera continued. "They are extensions of your soul, reflections of your magic. The bond you form will guide your path as a witch."
A student raised their hand. "Professor, how do the familiars choose us?"
"An excellent question," Astera said. "You must first complete a quest designed to test your resolve, your ingenuity, and your connection to magic. Each quest is unique, tailored to the familiar you are destined to bond with. Only when you prove yourself will the familiar reveal their true form and accept you."
The room was silent, the weight of her words sinking in. Joy felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. The idea of having a familiar-a being who would understand her in ways no one else could-was thrilling. But the thought of the quest, of being judged by such an important force, made her stomach churn.
---
As class ended, the students filed out, their chatter louder than ever. Joy lingered near her desk, staring absently at the illusions that still lingered faintly in the air.
"Thinking about your quest?" a familiar voice asked.
Joy turned to see Dani standing in the doorway, his calm demeanor a steadying presence as always. As the Academy's guidance counselor, Dani often offered support to students preparing for major milestones like this one.
"A little," Joy admitted. "It's a lot to take in."
Dani stepped into the room, folding his arms thoughtfully. "It is. But you've handled challenges before. This is just another step in your journey."
"What if I mess up?" Joy asked, her voice tinged with worry.
"You won't," Dani said firmly. "The quest isn't about being perfect. It's about being honest with yourself and showing the familiar who you truly are. That's what they're looking for."
His words eased some of the tension in her chest, and Joy managed a small smile. "Thanks, Dani. I needed to hear that."
He nodded, then added, "If you ever need help preparing, you know where to find me. I'll make time for you."
