Reversal

"Can you show me magic?" Tilal asked.

"No, not yet," Afena answered. "Not until you pass the test."

They were walking through the forest, picking up herbs, leaves, flowers, roots and mushrooms. A basket, half full of components, hung from the arm of each one.

"But what's the test?" Tilal demanded with a laugh. "You won't tell me anything!"

"That's part of the test as well." Afena said amusedly. "What kind of test would it be if I told you what you were supposed to do?"

"A fair one."

"Meaningless, I'd say."

"Oh, why do you have to be so difficult?"

"If by difficult you mean stern, or serious, or strict, then that's because it's the only effective way to make sure you're worthy of the knowledge."

"Ah, yes. And meanwhile, all I can do is pick up plants, and boil them and ground them."

"That is indeed how many of us Inarentas started."