The gates of Stonefang Combat Forge stood tall and gleaming, freshly repaired, their massive cog-and-claw sigil catching the morning light. Three days had passed since Dren's attack, and true to dwarven reputation, the scars of destruction were already gone—as if the academy itself refused to remember weakness.
Zane and Mira stood near the gate, travel-ready. In front of them was Grom, arms crossed, his posture heavy yet steady.
So much had happened in such a short time.
Zane had already told Mira everything about the Vassel organization—what they were, how deep their roots ran, and how Dren had become one of their pawns. The guest lectures had concluded as well. Mira had spoken with clarity and composure despite everything, while Zane's lecture on mana vibration theory had left even veteran instructors stunned. The concept alone had shaken several long-held beliefs in Stonefang.
After that, the three of them had moved together.
