Eldred nods slowly, his fingers stroking his long white beard as he considers Victor's words. "Ah, the duality of magic," he murmurs.
"A tool for protection, yet also a shackle that binds."His purple eyes gleam with a mix of wisdom and something darker, more knowing.
"And what about you, my dear?" Eldred turns his gaze to Mariabell, his expression softening slightly.
"What does magecraft mean to you?"
Mariabell blinks, caught off guard by Eldred's sudden attention. She takes a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking.
"What does it mean to me?" she repeats softly, her delicate brow furrowing. "Magic... it's a part of me.
"She looks down at her hands, as if seeing the power that resides within them.
"It's in my blood, my heritage."A small, wistful smile plays on her lips.
"Grandpa always said I had a gift, that I was meant for greatness."
Her expression turns serious, a hint of determination in her purple eyes.
