Magic, in and of itself, is neither good nor evil; it is only subject to the will of its user. It is the Primordium, the source of all things—life and death are formed from it. It is the quintessential element of all existence under the sun and the Tiamant Root, from which all things grow, whether of virtue or calamity. — Sage of Oracle

For thousands of years, the hidden sages have safeguarded the secrets of sorcery, ensuring that arcane knowledge does not fall into the wrong hands. The Sage Pantheon has guided the land of Mistharrow, protecting it from descending into despair and madness.

The Aurora Spire serves as the cradle of the next generation of sorcerers, training them in the arts of Runecasting and Spirit Channeling to secure the future of the land.

Among these young aspirants is Preston Hobbs, a late bloomer who receives an acceptance letter to the Aurora Academy. Due to his delayed spiritual awakening, he must join the academy as a fifth-year student—among peers who have already amassed considerable experience.

Despite his late start, Preston quickly proves his talent in Runecasting, mastering the basics with remarkable speed. However, strange occurrences begin even before he sets foot in the academy.

He survives a mysterious accident, witnesses bizarre phenomena, and—most notably—becomes the only one able to see an enigmatic Rune that seems to conceal the secrets of an ancient magic.

As a series of inexplicable events unfold at the academy, Preston begins to question everything he once believed in. Shadows stir in the background, and he senses that a deeper scheme is at play—one that could change the fate of Mistharrow forever.

Chapter 16 - Ch 16