Forewarned and fearless

You wake the next morning excited and ready to go. After a quick breakfast, Douglas comes to collect you, and this time he’s joined by a very attractive woman who looks to be about your age.

He smiles as they approach. “Good morning, Greg! Looks like you’re all set, just one last thing before you go. This is Rachel, she normally works with sponsors, but she also has an ability we use to check for latent magic.”

You look at them curiously. “You mean, in me? But I’m not magical.”

Rachel smiles. “Ever since the portals first opened, magic has been seeping into our world. It’s why I have the power to observe magical auras. We just want to see if you have anything dangerous that might erupt when you go into the much more magical old world.”

Douglas nods. “It’s better to know what you’re bringing through, that way we can inform both you and the gatekeeper in the other side of what you are capable of.”

You nod. “Makes sense. Someone who suddenly has a lot of power could be a danger.”

“Or be taken advantage of. We want to make sure everyone is safe.”

You smile. “Well, let’s see if I’m magical!”

Rachel laughs. “Just hold still.”

She looks at you intently , her eyes glowing faintly. After about a minute, the glow fades. “Well, there’s definitely something there, but it’s faint. You’ll likely develop some kind of power over time, but nothing world shattering.”

You smile. “Honestly, that’s the story of my life.”

Rachel smiles and pats you on the shoulder. “I’m sure you’ll do well in the old world.”

She turns to Douglas. “Sorry to run out so quick, but we have a big sponsor coming in today. We might finally have a match for Maya!”

Douglas smiles. “Wonderful! Poor girl was getting so depressed. Thanks for your help!”

Rachel waves and leaves, and Douglas leads you out through a different door. “Now, I know it seems abrupt, but it’s time for you to go through! Are you ready?”

He stops in front of a heavy metal door. You take a deep breath. “I’m ready, let’s do this.”

Douglas opens the door to reveal a simple stone room. In the center of the room is a metal frame, and a glowing portal fills the inside of the frame.

Douglas smiles. “Not much to it, just walk on through.”

You stare for a minute, gathering yourself. You close your eyes, take a deep breath, and take a step forward.