Opening:
Merlin had gathered the children in the grand chamber. The room was surrounded by ancient stone walls, yet now a mysterious glow illuminated them. A dazzling light filled every corner, as if the room itself was infused with magic beyond time and space. The space felt like a gateway—every step forward seemed to open a door to another world.
The children stood around Merlin, each carrying a different state of mind. Meric was still struggling to process everything that had happened. Lina, although appearing calm, felt a deep sense of uncertainty within. Marlon, on the other hand, couldn't shake his doubts. Merlin watched them carefully, giving them the time they needed to discover their inner strengths. Because soon, each of them would embark on a journey—one different from the others.
Merlin (slowly, taking a deep breath):
"Magic is not just power; it is a journey. Each of you has a different path, a different soul. Mental focus is the first step in mastering magic. The more you focus, the stronger you become. That is why, before anything else, you must find yourselves."
Meric tried to absorb Merlin's words. Everything they had seen and learned so far was overwhelming, yet also frightening. With Merlin's return, their responsibilities had only grown heavier. Carrying that burden was slowing them down. Lina, being the rational thinker, believed there had to be a logical explanation behind everything. She suspected that Merlin's words held a deeper meaning. Marlon, as always, remained skeptical. Everything was happening too fast. His mind was flooded with questions, yet there was something about Merlin—his presence, his voice—that instilled a strange sense of trust.
Meric (focusing his gaze, taking a deep breath):
"Merlin, how can we control such immense power? I'm afraid… but I also want to do something. Yet, I still don't know if I'm ready."
Merlin (nodding slowly):
"Fear is natural. Mental focus is the first step to overcoming it. But remember, before fear controls you, you must learn to control it. True strength comes not only from the enemies outside but also from the darkness within."
The children took a moment to process Merlin's words. Silence filled the room. Merlin respected their internal struggles, allowing them to experience this process without pressure.
Lina (closing her eyes, thinking deeply):
"So… magic starts with the power within us?"
Merlin (calmly, letting the atmosphere of the room speak for itself):
"Yes, Lina. Magic begins within you, long before it manifests in the outside world. Self-awareness is the key to everything. Without control over your thoughts, you cannot control magic. That is why you must first find balance within yourself."
Merlin raised his hands, his eyes scanning each of them before continuing.
Merlin:
"Now, I want each of you to close your eyes. Take a deep breath. Try to feel the power within you. When you find it, we will continue your journey. But remember—magic is not something you obtain in an instant. It grows with time and patience."
The children listened to his words and closed their eyes. The silence was deep, broken only by the sound of their own breathing. As Meric shut his eyes, he began to confront the conflicting emotions inside him. His mind was filled with questions, but one thing was certain: magic was not just about the external world; it was an internal journey as well. And to begin that journey, he first had to find peace within himself.
Lina, ever analytical, examined every word and action. Understanding magic would give her power, but at the same time, suppressing her own doubts was proving to be a challenge. Marlon, his mind still racing with thoughts, hesitated before closing his eyes. He still had doubts about magic, but for now, trusting Merlin seemed to be his only option.
After a while, Merlin observed them in silence. Their eyes were closed, but within them, different emotions, thoughts, and struggles brewed. Without touching them, he watched over them, guiding them as they began to discover their own strengths. Mental focus had been initiated. But this was only the beginning.
Merlin (slowly, taking a deep breath):
"You have started well. Now, you must be ready to use this power. But remember—every great journey starts with a single, small step. Power grows over time, but as it grows, controlling it becomes even more difficult. Be patient. Learn. Only then will you truly master it."