Sylvia was somewhat disappointed that the other adventurers didn't pay any attention to her, but she didn't let it bother her too much. She was still a greenhorn after all, like that guy from earlier said.

Soon enough Pylia found her with her robes...dress in tow. She accepted the dress with a thank you to Pylia. Her curiosity was piqued when Pylia mentioned that she wanted to teach her something. She answered Pylia, "Yeah. I was thinking of wearing these clothes during our travels tomorrow anyways," She put the robes, or dress, back into her backpack for later. She then asked Pylia, her interest piqued, "What is it you wanted to teach me?"

“Well, since you’re... New here, I figured what I would teach you is magic. I’m not sure how quickly your adapt to it but you should at least learn the fundamentals. If we’re to figure out what to do with you, it’ll be in your best interest to learn how things work in this world. Why don’t we head out from the camp? Not too far, just somewhere we can train without too many people in our way.”

Sylvia was surprised to hear that she was going to learn magic. A part of her was excited at the news. She was going to cast magic! Wait, would she even be able to cast magic? Either way, it was going to be cool learning how to use magic! Something that never really existed at home. After Pylia suggested heading away from the camp, she agreed, "Yeah, sounds like a great idea! Let's go!"

With Sylvia in tow, you and Pylia head just outside of the camp, though still near it's walls. Using a stick Pylia drew some shapes into the dirt. "So since you're a total newcomer, allow me to explain the basic fundamentals of magic to you. Magic is in everything; the air, the ground, your body, everywhere. Even in things that 'reject' magic is merely a form of magic that doesn't allow itself to be openly manipulated. It's due to the pervasive nature of magic that everyone and everything is capable of things that regular humans cannot. It is also what allows humans to do more than what regular humans can do. For some, this magic manifests in strange adaptations, such as tieflings, demon people, fire resistance, or the innate magic found in most elves." Pylia drew a large circle split in half, then with a few more circles surrounding them. She labeled each one a different letter.

"While there is magic in everything, there are only a few ways most people have learned to actually control these magics. There are two general classifications of magic: Arcane and Divine. Arcane magic is one's ability to control, alter, or otherwise manipulate magic that exists around you. This is what most wizards are capable of, however some people such as sorcerers also have an innate store of magic within them they can call forth. Some of these magics can be controlled via ritualistic techniques, such as how bards can use music to create magic. Arcane magic can also simply be drawn out from magical sources, such as how Warlocks can call forth their limited but powerful magic through the pacts they form with their patrons via their magical foci and such. In short, arcane casters draw magic from their surroundings or some source with them." Pylia labeled one side arcane, and then in each of the circle on the arcane side she wrote a small abbreviation of the classes she spoke about.

"Divine is a different beast. Divine magic draws powers from the gods themselves, or aspects that are mysterious to most but still considerably powerful. Their magic relies far less on the understanding of the world around them or their own innate abilities, but still come from a source they have no direct control over. Additionally while the source of magic itself is infinite, a divine caster's ability to call upon those powers is limited. I myself am a divine caster, but I can only at most create two spells a day. I am what you'd call a cleric, though I've dabbled in druidism while I lived alone. Clerics are traditional divine casters of the gods. Druids are more nature oriented, similar to arcane casters in the sense they draw magic from nature, however they draw it from the very essence of nature itself as oppose to anyone specific. Rangers and Paladins, more martially inclined spellcasters, are also types of divine casters. Many consider divine casters an "easier" form of magic since it mainly relies on one's ability to follow certain oaths or faiths, however make no mistake: becoming a skilled divine caster requires as much skill, knowledge, and training as any other type." Pylia labeled the next side Divine and drew the initials for the smaller circles as well.

But then Pylia started drawing a few more circles branching out from both the main circle and the smaller circles. She would explain what these are. "Now, while these are the types of people who would generally have magic, just about any person is capable of casting spells or magical abilities regardless. Some people who are generally magically inept could do so with the right skills, training, or just items. You seem like a monk type to me; a sort of person with the mental discipline to fight hand-to-hand even against armed and dangerous enemies. These types of people can access a sort of magic exclusive to them, known as Ki. By honing your mental fortitude, also known as one's Wisdom or street smarts, you can access a sort of quasi-divine enlightenment that will let you preform feats that you may consider super natural." Pylia made a branch for monks off the larger divine half, though she also went to make other branches as well. The wizard had two branches labeled EK and AT, while the druid had one labeled TW.

"Additionally, most if not all magic requires certain... Components to use them. You can't simply will magic to happen. Usually. There are three main components to magic: Somatic, Verbal, and Material. Somatic components are movements, hand gestures, and generally any physical activity needed to direct your spell. These can be as complex as a ritualized dance or as simple as just pointing at your target. Verbal are the literal magic words and incantation to call out what spell you're casting, since a lot of spells can share the same Somatic component but changes depending on what you shout out. Most verbal components is simply the name of the spell, however some people can change the verbal components based off languages, code words, or other things. Finally material components are the physical cost of certain spells, or a device to channel their magic from. A classic fireball spell for example needs a pinch of sulfur and bat poop, or simply a spell casting catalyst such as a magic staff." Pylia took out her silver sword amulet from around her neck to give you a closer look.

"I personally use my holy symbol, the Symbol of Defiance, for an material cost for my spells. Unless the spell calls for something specific, this is usually enough. And as you might've noticed, whenever I set something on fire I usually said some magic words. Those are the verbal components that determine whether or not I'm going to smite something with sacred flame, or just throw a ball of fire at it. And naturally, the act of throwing said ball of fire or pointing at my target is the somatic component for some of my spells." Pylia quickly demonstrated by preforming some spells that you've already seen her do before. She casted her sacred flame spell, summoning a bolt of fire out of the sky to strike an empty space nearby she was pointing towards. Then she said another magic spell that summoned a ball of flame into her hand that she threw against a large rock. "Both of these things I've managed to do thanks to the time I've spent as a cleric to Defiance. Through meditation, ritual, and study, I've learned how to channel spells through him. Additionally when I was in the forest I've also studied on the natural magics that druids know of, which is how I'm able to produce flame and create those berries that can heal your wounds. It also allows me to strengthen even a simple club into a deadly weapon."

Sitting back down Pylia looked over to you. "I know that's a lot to take in, so if you have any questions go ahead and ask. Either way, I figured while we had some time to kill I'll help you understand how magic works some more, and maybe we'll see some progress. At the very least you seem like you have the patience to try."

Sylvia listened as Pylia explained the basics of magic, attentive and curious as to how magic worked at all. There was so much information, and Sylvia was so taken in by the explanation, she almost didn't really know where to start when it came to questions. She was able to keep a couple of questions in mind while Pylia discussed components and what kind of warrior Sylvia herself may be.

When the time came for her questions, Sylvia commented "Oh wow...OK, where to begin..."

She then asked Pylia, "How would monks use Ki? Do they need verbal, somatic, and material components as well? Also, what do EK, AT, and TW mean? Are they different types of wizards and druids?"

"Well, to answer the simple questions first, EK, AT, and TW mean Eldritch Knights, Arcane Tricksters, and Totem Warriors respectively. They're the names of certain archetypes for fighters, rogues, or barbarians who have access to magical abilities, despite their usual focus being entirely nonmagic. Specifically, Eldritch Knights and Arcane Tricksters often gain their magic like wizards, through intense study. While their magical prowess is lacking, they make up for it in might or cunning. Totem Warriors are a bit strange as they take up less magic, and more of the unique features of druids such as taking on more... Animistic forms to grow stronger. Some might turn bear like to become tougher, or wolf-like to work better in a team. They also get a few spells like druids related to animals, usually ones that let them communicate with beasts."

Pylia sat down in front of you but facing towards the ocean nearby, her legs crossed as she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "As for a monk's Ki, they generally don't require anything like that. I'll admit I'm not too experienced about how most monks operate, but from what I understand, some basic functions of Ki makes you more agile, faster. It allows you to strike your enemies more rapidly than you normally could, or dodge attacks with insane speeds. Or simply move much faster than you normally can. All these things simply require your will and Ki, though do note that for most novices, drawing this power can be taxing. That's not to say you'll be hurt or put in a bad spot if you use it, just that you won't be able to use it constantly. You'll need breaks once you exhaust your Ki, so try and manage it carefully."

Patting the spot next to her, Pylia turned to look at you. "If you're interested in Ki, I can certainly help you there. Monks and Clerics are both very similar in the sense that it's out mental fortitude that gives us the most strength. I've trained with a few during my younger years, so I know the basics of how to focus your energies inside into a tangible force. While I lack the experience to actually use Ki, I imagine it'll be easier for you. So sit here and meditate with me." When you do so, Pylia would explain some more about how to channel your Ki.

"Close your eyes, but don't fall asleep. You need to be very aware of your surroundings. Of things both natural and man-made. Listen to the sounds of the waves in the distance, but also listen to the voices behind us, the calls of men and beasts. All of these things are part of the sea of magic, just like you. An in order to truly tap into the energy within you, you must learn your place in this sea of magic. Do not simply let the waves take you. Be like water, and learn how to ride the current, swim through the motions. Visualize yourself among the chaotic storm that is life, and see that you are solid and serene, like an unmovable stone..."

Sylvia committed everything Pylia said about managing her ki to memory before she took a seat next to Pylia. She followed Pylia's instructions as she sat with her legs crossed and her eyes closed. At first, it was difficult for Sylvia to completely clear her mind and focus on the things that Pylia wanted her to focus on. Her own mind brought up the fact that she was learning to harness magic, and the memory from her childhood of her grandfather meditating much like she was trying to do so.

She had been a little rambunctious then, trying to get her grandfather to do something instead of just sitting there and possibly sleeping. She tried calling to her grandpa, pushing him with all the might her tiny body could muster, and even making funny faces in front of his closed eyes. Her grandmother had to lead her away and distract her with baking cookies. The last thing she saw in that memory was a smile on her grandfather's face.

And that led her to recalling how her grandfather started teaching her the basics of martial arts with meditation. She remembered him telling her to how to manage her breathing. With that advice in mind, she controlled her breathing, slowly inhaling and exhaling. How she controlled her breathing seemed to help clear her mind. She was able to focus on her surroundings and see herself as a serene and unmovable stone, despite the fear of the dragon and never being able to go home lingering in the back of her mind.

It was an odd experience to say the least. Perhaps it was just this new world, or perhaps it was due to some unknown power that brought you here, but as you meditated you felt a strange sort of release from your body. Almost as if you were no longer physically bound to the world, traversing your existence as a transient soul. You could feel the wind in your face and the sounds carried by the life around you. You could sense the dirt beneath your body and the beings who lived in it. The warmth of the sun and all that the light touches. You hear the oceans waves and the depths of the abyss.

At some point you stopped hearing Pylia talking and at the same time an hour had passed. Only then did she speak as she stood up. “And that’s where we’ll end it for now. Meditation is important to get a sense of self when utilizing you magic abilities, whether they’re spells or Ki. It’s starting to get late now. Is there anything else you want to do before we head back?”

When Sylvia opened her eyes and stopped meditating she couldn't help but mutter "Woah...!" in surprise and from the sensation. She had tried meditating back home, but it never resulted in anything like that. She answered Pylia, "I still need to go to Ferric and pay for Shortfang's armor, but other than that? I don't think there's anything else I need to have done,"

"Thank you for teaching me about magic and ki, Pylia," She thanked Pylia as the both of them headed back.

“Not a problem Sylvia. If you ever need any more help just ask.” Pylia went back to the tent while you went to Ferric. Shortfang was there too, wearing a snazzy new outfit. He hopped back in forth in front of you. “Look look! Shortfang new shirt! See!” He opened his shirt up to reveal a rather cute, kobold sized set of studded leather armor. It looked sort of like a bullet proof best. “Now Shortfang extra tough!”

Sylvia smiled as Shortfang happily showed his new outfit and armor. She answered him cheerfully, "That's awesome Shortfang! You look stylish and tough!" She then handed the five platinum to Ferric and she told him, "Thank you, Ferric. I can see that the armor is of fine craftsmanship,"

“No problem lass, always willing to try something new, especially if I can get paid for it! By the way, the cart is repaired now, so we’ll be leaving early in the morning. Pylia told me what tent you’ll be staying at so I’ll head on over to take you up if you aren’t already. We’ll leave something before dawn, so make sure you get plenty of rest.” With that, some adventurers came by to pursue Ferric’s wares, so he bid you goodbye as Shortfang looked up to you.

“Shortfang sleep near tent in burrow. When night come Shortfang eyes work better, no sunlight.” Even now as the sun was setting Shortfang’s eyes strained against the bright lights. “By the way, Shortfang got food, so no worry for dinner! Shortfang have rabbit, mushroom, potato. Make kebabs!” The kobold chatted with you as you returned to the tent.

"You got it. See you tomorrow morning!" Sylvia answered Ferric as she headed back for the tent. As she headed back to the tent with Shortfang, she chatted with him in return, "Very cool! The camp here is going to provide dinner as well if you want that instead," She then informed, "I am also a bit of a cook myself. During the trip with the caravan, I can cook for everyone," She'd continue to chat with Shortfang until they'd reach the tent.

“You cook? Very good! Shortfang only know food cook with fire taste good.” As they approached the camp some people have you and Shortfang strange looks. “You strange, Sylvia. Humies don’t like kobolds. Kobold not like Dragonborn or Lizardfolk. Even orc more normal than kobold. Shortfang sorry if Shortfang koboldness cause trouble.” He says with a bit of tired frustration as you finally reach your tent. Pylia had set out her bedroll here and had a small campfire going. When she saw you she waves you over.

“Hey! Just in time, just got the fire stoked. She tossed in a small handful of powder that created a green smoke for a short while. “That should keep the bugs from us for a while, as long as the fire keeps going. Did you two get everything you need?”

Sylvia noticed the strange looks the both of them were receiving from the other campers, but she chose to ignore it. Why did they look at Shortfang like that? She was used to receiving strange looks as a kid back home. When Shortfang apologized, Sylvia blinked and she reassured him, "There's no need to apologize, Shortfang," If anyone had an issue with Shortfang just for being a kobold...well, then there might be some problems between Sylvia and that person.

Soon enough they reached the tent and she waved back to Pylia. She greeted "Hey Pylia! Yeah, I think we've got everything we needed," She stood by the fire and she informed Pylia, "Well, Ferric's got the wagon fixed and he'll be leaving before dawn tomorrow. He'll stop by our tent to wake us up if we aren't awake already,"

"Good to hear. With any luck maybe we'll be able to make it to the second camp before the rain comes in. I should let you know, the second camp isn't nearly as fortified as this one. While I'm sure they'll let us camp there for the night, we may need to make our own shelter or ask Ferric to help us out if the second camp doesn't have anywhere for us to stay." Pylia mentioned as she set out a pot of water to boil. "Assuming the weather isn't so bad that we'll be trapped in, we should be able to make it to Gransys within three days. Tomorrow will likely consist of the travel all the way to the second camp, and then we'll have to brave the valley. I can't say I know what will be there aside from monsters, but I've heard rumors that there's an old rest stop near one of the cliff peaks. It was made by scouts before the valley was abandoned, so if we're lucky there might be enough shelter there for us to rest if we need it. The last day ought to get us to Gransys sometime in the afternoon."

Sylvia listened to what Pylia had to say and she answered once Pylia had finished, "That's good to know. As I have mentioned to Shortfang, I can cook for everyone along the way. The food I bought back in Cassari should be enough to last us for a week,"
She then asked, innocent curiosity clear in her voice, "Oh! Pylia, just out of curiosity, what was that language you and Shortfang were using earlier? It sounded like a combination of German and Latin,"

Pylia tossed on herbs into the pot, presumably making tea. "We were speaking Draconic, the language of dragons. I forgot that you might not recognize it. I figured Shortfang was more fluent in it." The kobold nods as he takes out his dinner from his back. Bits of rabbit, squishy mushrooms, and mushy potatoes which he skewered onto a stick. "Common not easy. Shortfang learn only after Shortfang choose to leave home. Ah... Bad common why Shortfang caged. Humies talk fast! Shortfang no understand. Shortfang end up with short stick!" He says with a chuckle. At least he new some idioms. Pylia looked back at you. "I take it you might be interested in learning?"

Sylvia nodded understandingly when Shortfang mentioned that his common wasn't good, and it was why he got caged. At least he seemed to be learning common quickly if the idiom was of any indication. She answered Pylia's question thoughtfully, "It might be a good idea to learn Draconic," She then commented, "The only other foreign language I know is Japanese, and I don't know if that would apply here,"

Shortfang looked between the two girls. "What Japanese?" As for Pylia, she had to think about it. "I mean... I don't know how quickly you can learn a whole new language. But I suppose we could go over a few phrases, the important ones anyways. But first let's eat. I have some tea brewing, why don't you make some dinner?" Pylia adjusted her pot to allow you some space to do your thing.