Crystaline Origins

Jasmine: "Now before we start, I need you to always remember that as a beginner your emotions will always control how powerful you are. And you need to learn to channel those emotions."

Grace: "How do I do that?"

Jasmine: "I will show you."

Jasmine takes a deep breath, noticing that the king was watching and puts on a fake smile. There goes her improvised lessons...

Jasmine: "Breathing. It is a tactic used by many."

Grace: "But I'm already breathing."

Jasmine: "...Yes. But—"

Grace: "Why is breathing a tactic if I'm already breathing?!"

Jasmine: "I...I don't know. Anyways, the idea is to control your breath to calm your mind and body. In through the nose, out through the mouth."

Grace: "Why through the nose and out the mouth?"

Jasmine: "Because it helps regulate your breathing. It's... um... a technique for better control."

Grace: "What happens if I breathe through my mouth?"

Jasmine: "It might make you feel more anxious. The goal is to stay calm."

Grace: "Got it. In through the nose, out through the mouth."

Jasmine watches as Grace attempts the exercise. After a few minutes, Jasmine notices Grace's improved concentration and starts to feel a bit more relaxed herself.

Jasmine: "Good. Now let's move on. Emotions can be like a storm—powerful but unpredictable. You need to harness that energy without letting it overwhelm you."

Grace: "How do I do that?"

Jasmine: "Practice. Use your emotions to fuel your focus. If you're angry or sad, channel that energy into something positive."

Grace: "Like what?"

Jasmine: "I don't know. Whatever makes you feel happy. It can help you stay sharp and grounded."

Grace: "Okay, but what if I don't know what makes me happy?"

The king, observing from a distance, nods approvingly at the practical advice Jasmine is giving.

Jasmine: "I...I don't know. Umm...try to think back to your days in the orphanage."

Grace: "Everyone bullied me because they thought I was stupid. Anything that made me happy was always ruined by the other kids at the orphanage."

Jasmine doesn't let her guard down, but her eyes, however, show a hint of vulnerability.

Jasmine: "So you were quite the excited one to meet me weren't you?"

Grace: *nods, looking down* "Yeah. I guess I was."

Jasmine: *sighs* "I understand, child. And it's important to find something that makes you feel happy, something that's just for you."

Grace: "But what if I can't find it? I'll never become a good sorceress."

Jasmine: "You will. It might take time, but just keep searching. Ahem. Stories aside. Let's try starting with a simple spell."

Jasmine gestures for Grace to follow her to a clear space in the cave. She picks up a small, smooth stone from the ground and holds it in her hand.

Jasmine: "This is a basic exercise. We'll start with something simple to help you practice channeling your emotions."

Grace: "What do I do?"

Jasmine: "Focus on the stone. Imagine your emotions flowing into it, like a stream of energy. You don't have to force it; just let it happen naturally."

Grace: "Okay..."

Grace closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, trying to clear her mind as Jasmine instructed. Jasmine watches intently, her expression a mix of patience and anticipation.

Jasmine: "Good. Now, gently try to make the stone move just a little."

Grace concentrates hard as she channels her focus and emotions toward the stone. The stone trembles slightly but doesn't move.

Grace: "It's not moving much."

Jasmine: "Even a small movement shows that you're making progress. With time, you'll be able to control it better. Remember, it's about building your strength and confidence."

Grace nods, her determination renewed. She takes another deep breath and tries again, with a bit more control this time. The stone quivers slightly more.

Jasmine: "You're getting there. Keep practicing and be patient with yourself."

Grace: "Thanks, Jasmine. I'll keep trying."

Jasmine: "Good. And remember, you're not alone in this. I'm here to help you, and so is everyone who believes in you."

Grace smiles, feeling a bit more encouraged. Jasmine feels a mix of relief and satisfaction seeing Grace's progress. The Queen, observing from a distance, smiles slightly, impressed by Jasmine's dedication and Grace's perseverance.

Jasmine: "Alright, let's take a break. We can continue practicing later. For now, just keep focusing on your breathing and how you channel your emotions."

Grace: "Got it."

Jasmine: *looks at Grace* "Are you hungry?"

Grace: *nods*

Jasmine and Grace walk to the kitchen.

Jasmine: "I want a pot of tea and a fresh plate of cookies."

The chefs bowed at Jasmine's command.

Chef: "As you wish princess."

Grace: "Are you going to make me practice my manners and how to properly sip tea again?"

Jasmine looked at Grace with a smirk.

Jasmine: "What do you think?"

Grace: *sighs* "I guess so."

Jasmine: "Good. Because it's important to get it right. You can't be a proper sorceress without knowing the basics."

Chef: "The tea and cookies will be ready shortly."

Jasmine: "Thank you. Come, Grace."

Grace: "Um, okay."

After a few minutes of waiting, one of the chefs comes to Jasmine and Grace who were sitting at the table, and sets down a pot of tea and a plate of cookies. Jasmine carefully arranges the tea and cookies on the table, ensuring everything is in its place. When she's finished, she pours the tea into each teacup. setting the pot in front of Grace.

Jasmine: "Now, when you sip your tea, hold the cup by the handle. Don't slouch. Sit up straight and take small sips. Like this."

Jasmine demonstrates, taking a small sip from her own cup with perfect form.

Grace: *watches closely* "Got it. Small sips and sit up straight."

Jasmine: "Exactly. And remember, no talking with food in your mouth."

Grace puts her teacup up to her lips and stares at Jasmine, who was sipping at her tea. For some reason, Grace just finds Jasmine's serious face hilarious and ends up spitting her tea on Jasmine, laughing. Jasmine's face turned into a scowl as the tea splashes onto her dress.

Jasmine's scowl deepens as she wipes the tea off her dress. She glares at Grace, who is still laughing.

Jasmine: "Grace! What did I just tell you about manners?"

Grace, still giggling, tries to apologize through her laughter.

Grace: "Sorry! I didn't mean to—"

Jasmine: *sighs deeply, trying to stay calm* "It's alright. Just remember, a proper lady maintains composure even when things don't go as planned."