Mari summoned a familiar with a single thought, something that was easy for the undead creatures to do, and as if by fate her companion was a small bat. I smiled slightly, the creature was awe worthy, its wings perfectly shaped and sharp. I concentrated as hard as I could on how it looked, how it moved as it sat upon Mari’s shoulder, its eyes bright and vibrant.
I can do this, I told myself sternly, demanding that my mind was clear of all the negativity I felt; concentrating on that one creature, on everything it did.
Nine days had passed since my first lesson with Marianne, the deadline drawing closer faster than I had imagined it would, my doubt returning after a few days; filling my mind with reasons why I couldn’t do it, why I never would. I had tried my best, giving it every effort
