The Magic Book appeared. It glided weightlessly through the air as though it possessed a soul of its own.
Cielius froze. His body trembled as if struck by lightning.
"Th-that is…" His voice faltered. His eyes widened as small tears welled at their corners.
Then... something impossible happened.
The Magic Book shifted on its own.
Lucien blinked in surprise. Never before had it acted independently. Yet now, before their very eyes, it spiraled around Cielius... It fluttered like a creature overjoyed to see a long-lost companion.
The sight left everyone stunned.
"Cienna… is that you?" Cielius whispered. His words were soft and fragile as though he were calling to someone just beyond reach.
At the sound of his voice, the Magic Book bounced lightly in the air... as if answering him.
Gasps rippled through the group. Shock filled their faces but none more than Edric and Maxim.
They had heard Cielius's whisper. Their expressions shifted.
