"Begin when ready. Activate the Dragonheart in your hands."
Frost Winister's voice cut across the courtyard like a sword stroke—calm, firm, and absolute.
The students hesitated only a moment before moving as one.
Essence Vials were uncorked with trembling hands, the golden liquid shimmering as though liquid sunlight had been trapped within glass. Each student poured a few drops over their Dragonhearts.
The crystals flared faintly, responding to the infusion, and the world seemed to hold its breath.
Draco felt the pulse in his palm intensify.
The Amber Ignis Dragonheart grew hotter, resonating with the Essence. It was as though the crystal remembered being alive, its slumbering Breath stirring to answer the call of a new master.
The first sparks ignited.
