Before dawn, a faint bluish glow appeared on the horizon. The bell of the academy's main tower tolled low, seeming to awaken the slumbering city of magic.
Eleanor stood before the stone window, gazing out toward the distant mountains and ancient forests. Her heart, like a tumultuous tide, was in disarray.
"If the Fate Stone is truly a divine relic, what path should I take? Flee the Academy? Be confined under Raynor's wing? Or... carve my own path?"
The sound of hurried footsteps and shouts echoed across the plaza. The disciples had gathered, and the elders stood solemn, their faces grim. The search following the fire at the Scripture Hall had not ceased, and today there would be a disciple assessment to determine loyalty and treachery.
Raynor Selwyn, clad in a platinum-lined robe, stood at the top of the stone steps, his expression austere. The morning light reflected off his golden hair, making him appear like a divine emissary. Yet beneath that holy exterior lay an obsession that ran deep, hidden from all but himself.
"Elena," he vowed softly, "I will uncover the one behind this, and ensure your safety."
Meanwhile, in the shadows, Ronquis silently observed him. His blue-gray eyes were as cold as ice, and a quiet sneer formed on his lips.
"You are an irredeemable fool."
Ronquis whispered to himself. The demonic presence from last night was no coincidence, and the deaths in the Scripture Hall had not been accidental. What troubled him more, however, was the faint light of the Fate Stone—he had seen it from afar during the night's battle in the woods.
"Elena Grand... who exactly are you?"
He abruptly tore his gaze away and turned, walking toward the inner sanctum behind the main tower.
⚡ Divine Sigil Stones: The four ancient divine stones, representing Law, Time, Elements, and Soul, each wielding a unique power.
⚡ Rune Magic: Magic that guides the power of runes through blood or soul pacts, allowing the wielder to control objects, form barriers, banish evil, or command the elements.⚡ Demonic Presence: A dark force that lingers in the soul or flesh, corrupting the mind and drawing the judgment of order.⚡ Disciple Assessment: The Academy uses magical sensing arrays to detect traces of demonic energy while testing loyalty through magical examinations.