Basic magic

The magic training area was paved in stone...stone that showed the evidence of years of magic, with gouges, scorches and curious warpings. Along the edges of the area rested training dummies and targets, but also all manner of miscellanea—chests, animal cages, glassware, podiums...

"Where are you looking?" a voice snapped. Rasa had been taking in the scene, but she quickly looked back to the magic trainer. This was a woman with dark red hair, pale skin, and a body covered by a long robe. She tugged at the collar of the robe, and she frowned. "Been hot recently..." With that, she unbuttoned the robe in the front, and she slipped it off. Beneath she wore a surprisingly brief sleeveless blouse, and a short skirt, both dark red. "Now," the sorceress said, tossing the robe over a chair, "Are you ready?"

Rana quickly nodded. "Yes, Mistress Sarrave!"

Sarrave rubbed her hands together. "Right, then. The very basics. Magic is an energy that exists in all things, living or otherwise. The craft of magic is the skill of harnessing and channeling this energy..."

...

Sarrave held up a glowing orb. She moved it back and forth. "Can you feel the energy?"

"Yes, of course!" Rasa said.

Sarrave scowled. "You're supposed to have your eyes closed!"

"Er...oh, right," Rasa said. "That makes sense." She closed them. "I can...feel the energy...I think?"

...

Rasa held her breath. Her brow furrowed. Sweat broke out on her brow. After long moments...the candle lit.

She exhaled, eyes wide. She had just created a flame! Out of nothing!

"Good," Sarrave said. She waved a finger, and the flame disappeared. "Only twenty-nine more times to go."

...

Rasa slumped in a chair. While she wasn't physically tired, her magical power was completely drained. It felt as though her soul was aching.

Sarrave was straightening up the training area. She glanced back at Rasa. "Not bad," she admitted, giving a slight nod. "Your natural ability is, ah, mediocre. But your willpower and, er...let's say enthusiasm..." She nodded once more. "It counts for a lot."

Rasa couldn't help but smile. She stood from her chair, and she managed a bow. "Thank you, Mistress."

Sarrave flashed a quick smile, and Rasa shivered. There was no doubt that the sorceress was attractive. She had a very...commanding air about her.