The moment came quietly at first—a subtle hum running through the deck, almost imperceptible under the soft patter of feet and whispers. Then, a low vibration shook the floor, faint at first, like the heartbeat of the world beneath them.
Lira rose from her seat, clutching her spatial bag, her eyes wide as the dragonfly-shaped wings of the Azure Wing shimmered. The translucent panels pulsed rhythmically, sending prismatic reflections across the polished wooden deck. She could feel the element thrumming through the air, a steady pulse that seemed alive.
"Brace yourselves!" Instructor Veyra's voice rang out, commanding yet calm. The students obeyed instinctively, gripping the bench edges or the railings that shimmered with protective wards.
