The Scholar And The Spy

Chapter 2

CHAPTER 2

Lisa ( Seventeen years of age)

I pluck at my fingernails in nervousness as I watch the Board of Scholars review my progress. I had worn a plain green skirt, a mandatory uniform that only the elite junior scholars were supposed to wear, and a white collar shirt. My high boots felt hard and unforgiving. I had wanted to be a scholar for as long as I remember, majoring in medications and sciences. Grandfather had sent me to the best tutors, and now after a three years of vigorous training, I had a chance of being accepted into the Board of junior Scholars. I look up at the old, wrinkled faces of the Board members and couldn't help but wonder how they could look so dull after all our advancement into skin treatment.

" Why do you think you are deserving?", said the lady to my right. She had completely white hair tied up in a neat bun, and a flowing green robe.

" I know I deserve to be a scholar because I have wanted it more than anything since I was young. I love everything about the sciences and I want to make a difference in the scholar world. I want to serve Lasthia in the sciences to create a better future." I said, folding my hands neatly and raising I head to look at each member.

The board began to whisper among themselves and suddenly, I didn't feel so confident anymore. After what took like eternity and many more answered questions, the board rose in unison.

"We welcome you to the Scholars Community." They replied back, almost in unison, except for the skinny one in the corner, he replied a little late, earning glares from the rest of the members. I wonder if they rehearse this, I thought as I bowed low.

After a few more comments and pleasantries, I was requested to leave for the next candidate. As I climbed down the steps I saw Bree running towards me, her red hair sleekly tied into a long braid, green eyes sparkling. I rushed forward and gave her a tight hug.

"You made it right? You had to! Or else there's no hope for me!", she said grinning in nervousness.

"Well I am very glad to tell you I did make it, but only just." I said, holding up my fingers to show a small space between my thumb and pointer.

"What?!", she said, eyes wide in panic.

"I'm joking!" I said, laughing as I dodged her punch.

"Of all the times you could have chosen to develop a sense of humor you chose now?", Bree said, rolling her eyes.

"hey! I have a wonderful sense of humor, thank you very much!", I said, placing my hand over my chest to feign hurt.

" Jordi sure thinks so, but I cant even comprehend why!", Bree said. I immediately let out an annoyed huff. Jordi is like a leech I just cant get rid of. Since first year, when I had accidentally bumped into him, with his dirty hair and pimply face, he's been following me around like nobody's business. He basically laughs at anything I say, regardless if it was even funny. Sometimes I wish I could scream at his face to leave me alone!

Bree startled and looked at me in surprise. I must have said that one out loud, why on Earth can't I keep my thoughts to myself? Stepping lightly through the corridor, i watch as a staff member came out and called the next candidate.

"Bree Anderzon"

"well, wish me luck.", said Bree, all humor gone now and a look of pure dread on her face.

"good luck?", I said, looking at her with as much conviction as I could muster, clearly it wasn't enough because she returned my reply with a fluster and a shaky wave.

I shook my head as I watched her go and remembered how we had first met.

I was so nervous as I watched the staff hand out room keys. Grandfather had just dropped me off with a tearful and crushing hug.