Sword from the Sky

Sword from the Sky - Chapter Seven

A HOLE AMIDST THE FOG

THE BLACK BIRD STOOD ON ITS PERCH WITH ITS imperial presence, letting out a regal yell that electrified the hearts of all who stood in its company. The students communed with each other, most of them curious as to the nature of the odd woman’s visit. Siel interrupted their gossiping.

“This is Prebansa, the great Mor,” he said. “We Davinians have had a symbiotic relationship with the Mors since the beginning of the Order. They know of things that are not known to us, as we know of things that are foreign to them. Together, we complete all knowing. Prebansa, we are humbled by your visit to our school. I’m sure that you’ll perform your part with truth. Please bid me the opportunity to address my students regarding the rules of the testing.” Prebansa sounded off with its golden beak as a reply to his friend.

“Everyone, I’ll make this brief,” Siel said. “We must make haste for various reasons. In a few minutes we’ll begin, and all who are called by the Mor will be required to respond immediately to the examination circle, bow to the officials, and begin with their forms. There are few things to keep in mind, Jubahns. First, all forms must be performed perfectly. As you know, during testing, you’ll not be given a chance to redo a form if you fail to execute it the first time. There is truth behind this reasoning, for in real combat, there are no second chances. All forms will be performed perfectly regardless of the reason. There are no excuses!

“Second, all forms must be performed at full strength, speed, and power. Don’t hold back, or you will be held back. Third, it’s no secret that if you fail the testing, we will re-evaluate your level of mastery and decide the length of time needed before another examination is given. And lastly, though it seldom happens, and according to his will and authority, the Mor is capable of withholding your name from being announced, thus denying you the opportunity to test for your blade. This is as it has always been and as it always will be. I have confidence that everyone will test, so do place your thoughts on other things, specifically your forms. And so another year of examinations will commence, but I’ll grant you a short recess to gather your thoughts.”

The students dispersed to their respective places, like an army of ants scrambling about when their anthill has been disturbed. As Luca made his way to the Bunish corner, he saw his friends waiting for him.

“I would like details, please,” Pabru said.

“Then you’re out of luck,” Luca said. “I won’t talk of things that need not be mentioned.”

“But we’re your friends,” Pabru replied. “You can tell us. Who was that beast of a woman?”

“Her name is Lady Malasorta,” Luca said.

“She’s from the sunless land, isn’t she?” Lereh said, who had unexpectedly walked up behind Luca with Luleh trailing behind.

“So far as we know,” Luca said.

“What did she want?” Vehru said.

“Are you to leave?” Luleh said with an honest worried look.

“No, he’s not,” Lereh said. “I won’t let her take you.” Her remark gave out a multitude of meanings. “I meant that she has no right to claim any Davinian for herself.”

“I agree with her,” Vehru said, garnering a warm smile from Luleh.

“Enough of this talk,” Luca said. “Gossip is best left to fairer things. Nothing this dark should be mumbled under our breaths, so, drop it.”

“If you say so,” Pabru said.

“He’s right,” Lereh said. “No need for us to stir things up more than they already are, especially if they come from shadow.”