Without another moment of hesitation, I grabbed my cloak and stepped out of the dormitory.
The night air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of pine and rain-soaked stone. The academy grounds were quiet, lit by the soft glow of mana lamps scattered along the path.
"Berno!" I called softly.
A small, sleek creature perched on the railing lifted its head. Berno—my ever-reliable companion—fluttered over, landing neatly on my shoulder. His crystal-blue eyes glinted with mild curiosity.
"Adventure time," I whispered with a grin.
Berno let out a low chirp, the kind that usually meant, You're getting us into trouble again, aren't you?
I chuckled. "Maybe. But it's worth it this time."
Together, we started down the dimly lit path, the faint echo of our footsteps blending with the whisper of the wind.
Toward Eldrite.
Toward whatever secret that ancient building still guarded.
---
