Skygate Academy had returned to what most would consider normal.
At least—on the surface.
The wide courtyards were filled with movement as students walked in groups, their voices lively with anticipation. Some discussed battle strategies with serious expressions, while others debated rankings as if they could predict the future through speculation alone. Beneath towering stone arches, factions gathered quietly, observing potential candidates and evaluating strengths.
The training grounds were even more intense.
Beasts clashed relentlessly.
Elemental energy burst into the air in controlled explosions.
Instructors shouted commands, their voices sharp and authoritative as they pushed their students beyond their limits.
Everything felt structured.
Disciplined.
Predictable.
And yet—
Beneath that carefully maintained order…
Something had changed.
Something subtle.
Something unseen.
And only a very few could truly sense it.
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