Any minute now, she thought to herself, calling up a spell to check the time again.


    One, two...four....six... Fleya was in shock as she watched the tenth and final stone light up.


    So much for trying to blend in, he thought to himself, straightening up again as he noticed a few passersby giving him an odd look.


    Blending in? Boy, you stick out like a sore thumb.


    Of course not. It’s been all of ten minutes and you’ve already forgotten me? the voice said, seemingly coming from nowhere.


    That spell linked us together, forever. However unfortunate that may be, we need to work together to get you up to speed as quickly as possible. Noru said, coming to a halt a few steps away from Tommy.


    You’re about as quick as a snail, eh? That spell I cast chose you to be my successor. That means you get me, in my full glory. Noru said, the last bit rolling off with more than a hint of sarcasm. I can explain more later on, we have more important matters at hand presently. So, first things first. Do not tell anyone about me, or what I’ve told you so far. From what I gather, you have limited support here. There’s no reason to add more confusing elements to the equation until you have a firmer grasp on your situation.


    Understood?


    It’s really not that bleak. If anything, think of me as another pillar of support. Except, this pillar is more imaginary, and can only offer a little wisdom and guidance. Still, that’s more than nothing. Tommy had a gut feeling this might be a bit of an understatement.


    I’m sure we will both come to terms. Noru said dryly. Let’s move along though, he said, eyes shifting from Tommy’s in a show of embarrassment he didn’t quite understand. You should know, you don’t have to speak aloud for me to hear you. I can hear it if you think it. This can be a bit invasive, he said, hand rubbing the back of his neck, but I promise to give as much privacy as I can afford to give.


    I must be the perfect picture of a world saving hero, huh? he laughed at himself.


    Herculean.. Noru responded dryly, making a motion as if to pat Tommy''s back. Training will fix everything. I just hope we have the time. Tommy went to respond, however the door behind Noru started to open, and the old man faded away before his eyes. Terrowin met Tommy at the door, hand extended with a smile on his face.


    You shouldn’t say anything at all, to anyone, until you’re positive they mean you no ill will, Noru’s voice sounded out in his head. Tommy was getting more than a fair share of old hermit vibes from Noru, the man looked like he quarantined for years before the Fracturing. There was a strong sense of irritation from wherever Noru was mentally located inside of his brain. Tommy smile, the man reminding him of his grandfather back on Earth.


    Would you pay attention? Noru snapped at him, appearing in front of Tommy abruptly. Gathering his senses and focusing back onto the room, Tommy saw Fleya as she gestured him further into the small apartment. Though, apartment was far from what Tommy would call it. The room was very cramped, consisting of a small entryway room for greeting guests, and a main circular room that made up the rest of the residence.


    very rare.” Seeing the blank look on Tommy’s face, he simplified his explanation. “You have the potential to be one of the very best. There’s only two other people at the Academy right now that can match your potential, and both of those people were given the best treatment since they were brought here to the Academy.”