[Hidden Cavern Beneath the Academy]
The flames danced like spirits, casting long shadows against the cave walls. Lohan sat cross-legged in the center, sweat beading on his brow as the temperature surged unnaturally high.
This place wasn't on any map. It was sealed by ancient runes—his own handiwork from a previous life. A forgotten training ground, buried deep beneath the Academy.
> "System, begin synchronization."
> [Initiating Skill Copy: Soulfire Resonance (Grade A+)]
[Compatibility: 84%]
[Pain resistance protocol: Disabled during fusion]
The flames swallowed him.
---
[System Notification]
> Warning: Skill copying may damage user's core temporarily.
Do you wish to proceed?
> "Yes."
His body jerked violently as the flames dug into his veins. His scream echoed through the cavern—raw, broken—but not once did he falter.
---
[Elsewhere – Academy Library, Midnight]
Winter scanned ancient tomes beneath the faint glow of a lantern. Her fingers moved with urgency, flipping past forbidden pages, tracing worn ink with growing dread.
She finally stopped at a black-bound volume.
> "The Eclipse Codex…"
Inside was an old prophecy:
> "When the Godslayer awakens, the heavens shall split thrice—
The traitor shall weep blood, the flame shall rise anew,
And the gods shall unleash the Beast Beyond the Skies."
Winter's hand tightened around the page.
> "The Beast Beyond the Skies… What are they planning?"
> "Winter?" a soft voice called behind her.
She turned—and froze.
Elric.
But his eyes… they were glowing.
Divine gold.
> "You weren't supposed to find that."
---
[Back at the Cavern]
The flames had calmed.
Lohan stood, breathing heavily, steam rising from his skin. The cave glowed red-hot around him.
He raised his palm—and fire erupted from his fingertips, but not ordinary fire.
Soulfire.
A flame that devoured energy, memory, and spirit alike.
> "One step closer," he muttered. "To killing them all."
His gaze turned skyward.
> "Even if the heavens must fall."
---