I’m testing out different ways to share my vsses (very short stories, posts 280 characters or less). This month I’ll post the tale in a few parts and afterward, share each of the vsses on social media, where the prompt words will be underlined. Here the story will be in a format that’s easier to read. (Part 1 uses vssCollab August 2023 prompts 1-11.)
Ever since this was hinted at in my books, I’ve wanted to write this side story.
Summary:
A young mage is recruited for a pilot program at Kyoto Jidai Arcane University. Will he be able to face the bullying ghosts of his past to thrive in the new environment?
SPOILER ALERT:
This little tale contains spoilers for Rise and Guardian (books 1 and 2) of the Liminal Chronicles series. You’ve been warned. ;)
My magic mentor, Date Hoji, asked me to visit Kyoto Jidai Arcane University, aka Kyoji, and apply to the pilot program for exceptional middle and high school students. I was hesitant. They had bullied me at my last school. But mom insisted Monday would be a good occasion to check it out.
On the bus, we prepared a list of what to learn about the campus, especially how the students treated each other. Hoji would meet me there, so I could ask to peek in on a classroom or two, since the program was in its second year.
Hoji greeted us warmly as we entered his office, asking if we were ready for the tour.
I took a deep breath. “If the teaching style here is like yours, I’ll do ok with classes. But it’s essential that professors not tolerate abuse.”
He paused. “I know what you went through. While I can’t follow you around to be your protector, I’ll do what I can, including tip off your professors. Last thing we want is for you to settle back into being a victim. You need to choose how you’ll react.”
Memories of the adventures in Sumichou stopped me in my tracks. Those were do or die times. We didn’t back down then, why should I now? And Mom said a companion helps you walk through the tough things.
Hoji put a hand on my shoulder. “Are you ok Jiro-kun?”
Startled, I nodded. “I think so.” But my mind raced as I tried to wrap my head around how I might try to do what Hoji had said. I’d learned to trust and rely on him.
He was already out the door to show us around. But I took a moment to organize my thoughts in a note on my phone.
My hesitation crumbled as we toured the campus. Not only was it right off the gorgeous Gion district in Kyoto. It was hidden away in the spirit realm—a refuge for yokai, which I was now. The professors were interested in their students and the classes were small.
Students moving back in for the second year of the pilot program asked if I was coming to KyoJi. They were so friendly. By the time we ended the tour, I’d made my decision. Hoji asked if I wanted to stop by the bookstore. I nodded and purchased a school t-shirt and uniform.
April, the time of new beginnings, arrived in the blink of an eye. Hoji was true to his word and helped haul my belongings into the pilot program’s dorm. Anxiety still tormented my thoughts.
While we were in line to get my schedule, he asked about an idea I’d texted him on calculating ki energy.
All eyes in the room glued to me as the dreaded whispers started. Shit. I froze with a scowl plastered on my face.
Hoji smiled. “We’ll talk later. Looks like you’ll be pretty popular here.”
What the?
An older student meekly shuffled over. “Need help with research, Sensei?"
Hoji put a hand on my shoulder, “Ask Jiro-kun. It’s his idea, and I was hoping it’d be his semester project.”
Twenty hands shot up. As I surveyed the requests, eager eyes pleaded with me. An upperclassman in the back shouted, “Hey Jiro-kun, don’t put that dweeb on your team!”
Continued in
As I sign off, I’ll remind you to…
Be the Difference. Be extraordinary.
All the best,
Amy