The afternoon sky darkened unnaturally as distant roars shook the mountains. The sound rolled across the academy grounds like thunder, carrying with it a primal fear that set every student on edge. Classes halted mid-lesson, books and tools abandoned as teachers rushed outside, their faces pale, their auras sharp with readiness.
In the courtyard, groups of students clustered together, whispering in fear. "Another dragon?" "Why does it sound so angry?" "Is it coming here?"
Lira felt the tremors beneath her feet, the familiar pulse of elemental energy she had grown used to in recent weeks—but now magnified tenfold. Her heart pounded as she stepped away from the others, her eyes drawn, as always, to the immense stone dragon at the far end of the courtyard.
"...What is happening?" she whispered, her voice barely audible as she pressed a hand against her chest. "Tell me…"
For a moment, silence. Then, the deep, resonant voice filled her mind.
It is time, child.
Her breath caught.
