The next morning came quickly, golden light pouring through the high windows of the academy's stone halls. Lira walked side by side with Maelin and Patricia, her heart steady but her mind racing with what lay ahead. The three of them moved quietly toward the Grandmaster's office, their steps echoing faintly.
Inside, Elion was already waiting, seated behind his desk, a scroll open before him though his sharp eyes lifted immediately when they entered. He seemed as if he had known they were coming.
Lira stepped forward first. "Grandmaster Elion… we wish to ask for your permission. I want to search for other multielement users, and I would like Maelin and Patricia to come with me. I cannot think of anyone better to stand beside me."
For a moment, Elion only studied them in silence. His gaze moved from Lira's determined expression, to Maelin's eager, bright smile, and then to Patricia, who stood tall with quiet confidence. At last, his mouth curved into the faintest approving smile.
