Chapter 56

chapter Fifty-four

The leader of the Council of Elders stood tall at the front of the grand assembly hall, his voice resonating through the chamber, commanding the attention of everyone present. The air crackled with anticipation as Tessa and her team of Academy Champions stood in a semi-circle, their eyes fixed on the leader, waiting to hear the reason they had been summoned.

"Alright, everyone, now prepare yourselves for the main reason I called you here," the leader announced, his tone firm and authoritative. "We need to embark on a purification mission of utmost importance. It is crucial that you find the four stolen scrolls. These scrolls were taken by a group of witches who intend to use their power for nefarious purposes."

Tessa's eyes widened at the gravity of the task before them, but she was determined. She squared her shoulders and locked eyes with the leader, her voice filled with conviction. "Sir, I won't disappoint you. I'll do everything in my power to retrieve those scrolls and put an end to their sinister plans."

The leader nodded, acknowledging Tessa's dedication and resolve. "You have proven yourself to be a true leader, Tessa. Therefore, you will continue to lead this team on this critical mission."

Tessa felt a surge of pride at the leader's words and accepted the responsibility wholeheartedly. She knew that the fate of the academy and the balance of magical forces rested on their success. "Thank you, sir. I won't let you down. We will bring those scrolls back."

The leader then turned his attention to a young man standing beside him, catching Tessa off guard. She had initially been skeptical of his presence, assuming he was one of the Council of Elders due to his mature demeanor. But now, the leader introduced him as Jamie, a witchard with enchanted powers.

"Jamie has proven to be of great help to this academy," the leader explained. "He once saved me from a disaster that I won't go into detail about. He will be an invaluable addition to your team, his unique abilities complementing your own."

Tessa studied Jamie intently, her initial skepticism giving way to curiosity. She wondered what unique abilities he possessed and how he would fit into their dynamic. She extended a welcoming smile, eager to see the full extent of his powers in action.

With the introductions complete, the leader opened the floor for questions, inviting the team to seek clarity about their upcoming mission. Tessa couldn't help but seize the opportunity to clarify their objectives. She raised her hand, her voice steady and determined. "Sir, I have a question. What are the purifications for? How will they aid us in retrieving the stolen scrolls?"

The leader paused for a moment, considering his response carefully. "The purifications serve multiple purposes. Through these rituals, you may unlock hidden powers that you are unaware of or unable to utilize. They also provide a surge of strength and clarity that will guide you throughout your missions, allowing you to tap into your full potential as Academy Champions."

Lucas, who had been silently observing the conversation, spoke up with a hint of concern in his voice. His brow furrowed as he addressed the leader. "Sir, what about me? I'm still recovering, and I'm in pain. How am I supposed to go on a mission like this?"

Lucas's question hung in the air, and the leader's expression softened with empathy. He understood the physical toll Lucas had endured and the doubts that plagued him. "Lucas, you don't need to worry. The purification rituals have inherent healing properties. They will address any disorders or ailments in your body. Once the rituals are complete, you will be healed, and your pain will subside. You can trust in the power of the purification process."

A smile tugged at the corners of Lucas's lips, relief evident in his eyes. "Wow, let's get started then. I can't wait to be whole again and contribute fully to the mission."

The leader nodded approvingly, his gaze shifting to Tessa. "Any more questions?"

Tessa hesitated for a moment, her mind filled with a nagging concern. She took a deep breath and spoke, her tone tinged with worry. "Sir, if I may, what about the mysterious wound on my back? I woke up with it this morning, and I don't know how it happened."

Tristan and the others exchanged worried glances, their concern mirrored in their expressions. Tristan stepped forward, his voice filled with genuine care. "Which wound, Tessa? How did this happen?"

Tessa turned around, pulling her top slightly to reveal the wound on her back. The others gasped at the sight of the deep, jagged gash, its origins shrouded in mystery.

Lucas's brows furrowed, his frustration evident. "Damn, Tessa, this wound looks serious. How did you get hurt without anyone noticing?"

Tessa shook her head, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "I still don't know. I woke up this morning, and it was already there, as if someone had attacked me while I slept."

The leader of the Council of Elders stepped forward, his gaze focused on the wound. He raised a hand, a gentle glow emanating from his palm, examining the injury with a trained eye. "Tessa, you don't need to worry. The purification rituals will address that as well. The process is designed to heal and restore. Once we complete the rituals, your wound will be tended to."

Tessa felt a mixture of relief and curiosity. She had been baffled by the origin of the wound and had grown increasingly concerned about its implications. The assurance from the leader brought a sense of comfort, knowing that the purification rituals would not only empower them but also heal any afflictions they carried.

Tristan's voice softened as he stepped closer to Tessa, concern etched on his face. "We'll make sure you're safe, Tessa. We'll find a way to get to the bottom of this."

Tessa nodded, grateful for Tristan's support and the unwavering loyalty of her team. The Academy Champions had faced numerous challenges together, forging a bond that transcended mere friendship. She knew they would overcome this mysterious setback, just as they had conquered past obstacles.

The leader motioned for everyone to proceed to the inner chamber, where the purification rituals would take place. As they walked through the dimly lit corridors of the academy, Tessa couldn't help but reflect on the gravity of their upcoming mission. The stolen scrolls, her enigmatic wound, and the addition of Jamie to the team all weighed heavily on her mind.

Entering the chambers, the team gathered in a circle, surrounded by an aura of mystical energy that permeated the room. The air was charged with anticipation as the leader positioned himself at the center, ready to guide them through the intricate rituals that would cleanse and empower their spirits.

As Tessa stood in the midst of the chamber, surrounded by the ethereal energy, she closed her eyes and allowed herself to be enveloped by the pulsating atmosphere. The rituals began, with the leader leading them through a series of ancient incantations and movements. Each member of the team followed suit, their minds focused and their bodies synchronized.

Tessa felt a gentle warmth spreading through her body, soothing her pain and instilling a sense of tranquility. The energy flowed through her, caressing her wounded back, and she could sense the healing power at work.