The wind blew coldly as they reached the top of the slope.
The entire horizon was dominated by the colossal sight of Azalith Academy—a fortress carved into the mountain, surrounded by white stone walls covered in golden runes.
Above it, a translucent dome shimmered like a second sky—the golden barrier that protected the heart of the city.
The barrier's light cut through the fog, casting reflections across the rocks.
Even wounded, Azalith still resisted.
Sylphie was the first to stop, her eyes fixed on the structure.
From where they stood, they could see the academy's inner towers casting intersecting beams of light, supporting the magical shield. Inside, shadows scurried—magicians and instructors keeping the seal active.
Outside, a field of destruction.
The slope leading to the main gate was covered with mana creatures, clustered together like a living swarm. Translucent, misshapen beasts, their bodies composed of raw energy.
