Where…?
With a hazy, unfocused vision, Stacia slowly pushed herself up from what she thought was a bed—only to realize the ground beneath her palms felt nothing like sheets.
It was coarse, brittle… ash-like.
She blinked hard.
Once.
Twice.
The world that came into view was desolate and unfamiliar.
Charred earth stretched endlessly in every direction, as if flames had swallowed an entire forest and reduced it to a blackened graveyard.
The sky above was dim, clouded by drifting dust and soot.
There was no wind, no sound—only a heavy stillness that pressed against her like a weight.
What… happened?
Her mind scrambled through the last clear memories she possessed.
Facing Flamme—yes.
The overwhelming presence of the Water Spirit King—yes.
Her trying to force her mana to withstand both forces at once—barely.
But after that… everything dissolved into a blinding haze.
Did I… win?
This place certainly wasn't the academy infirmary.
Not even close.
