As the floor quaked violently, tables shook, chairs scraped against stone, and dishes spilled across the cafeteria, chaos erupted in an instant.
What had been a cheerful, sunny afternoon turned into a flood of panic and chaos as students screamed and scrambled.
Rumors spread faster than light, with some students shouting that the cults had attacked again, that another disaster like the trials was unfolding right in front of them.
Almost reflexively, barriers erupted across the hall. Defensive formations flared into existence as mana surged from frightened students and seasoned seniors alike.
Transparent shields overlapped, glowing walls snapped into place, and runic circles formed beneath trembling feet.
The cafeteria became a mess of shouting voices, flashing lights, and scrambling dishes.
Chaos broke out completely.
In the middle of this confusion, the group of eight freshers suddenly felt something strange.
