Sanctum of Valor Academy

Chapter 8- Pinnacle

BRAMBLEWIND HOUSE RULES:

Section 1 - Departure and Return Curfew
Clause 1.1: No entrant shall leave the designated chambers or return to their chambers beyond the hour of midnight unless expressly authorized by the Captain of Bramblewind.

Section 2 - Violation Consequences
Clause 2.1: In the event of breaching Section 1, the violator shall be subjected to strict repercussions, the nature and extent of which shall remain within the exclusive knowledge and discretion of the Bramblewind Captain.

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My heart is pounding wildly as I make a swift escape from Bramblewind house, my hand automatically reaching for my chest. It feels like a storm is raging inside me, a whirlwind of emotions stirred up by Arawn's unexpected return. I never imagined his presence could affect me so deeply, as if a thousand daggers are stabbing my heart, leaving me in agonizing pain. The longing and desperation I feel catch me off guard.

I guess I am to blame here. I prayed so fervently to Lumos and Ozayriz to bring him back, willing to do anything just to see him alive again.

And to my surprise, my wish was granted. Arawn is back. Yet, the reality is far from what I imagined. Perhaps, in my desperation, I should have been more precise in my request to Ozayriz.

Wishes, it seems, come with unforeseen consequences, and now I find myself grappling with the impact of my own desires.

My unwavering strides lead me closer to the pulsating core of Sanctum. With each step I take, the world around me transforms into a vivacious spectacle, a riot of colors and sounds that dance and mingle with my senses. Indeed, as Captain Floki foretold, there will be celebration happening tonight. I guess its a welcome party for the Dawnlings.

The main hall bustles with life, adorned with five grand tables laden with delectable dishes from the various provinces of Elavthara. It's an extravagant feast fit for kings, but I can't help but sense the ulterior motive behind it all.

Tomorrow will mark the beginning of the true battle, and many lives will be claimed in the trials that await us.

My gaze sweeps across the hall, taking in the members from various houses, each engrossed in their own activities. Some are savoring the delicious food, others engaged in lively conversation, and a handful shamelessly displaying their affections for one another. and I can't help but raise an eyebrow at the public intimacy.

Gatherings like these have never been my forte. I hate large parties. Crowds tend to suffocate me. It's not that I dislike people, but their complexities and judgments can be overwhelming. People can be fascinating, but also deeply vexing.

I often seek solace in solitude, where my thoughts can roam freely.

As I scan the hall, seeking familiar faces in the sea of strangers, an unsettling feeling washes over me—a sensation of being watched, observed from afar. So I resolve to finish my meal quickly.

"Tarkkan!" A voice calls out from behind, jolting me from my reverie. I turn around to find one of the Zirkhan man I clashed with during the Ascension Rites. He was dressed in a maroon shirt that screams that he is a member of the Storm Flame, he sports a striking black eye that tells of some unpleasant past encounter. It's apparent that he still harbors a grudge against me. But he's wise enough to know that killing me within the Sanctum's walls is forbidden. Of course he'll have to wait for the Uragth Rites if he truly desires my blood.

"Glad you're alive. Because I'll kill you myself." A sneer curls up on his lips as he declares.

I can't help but smirk, meeting his threat with my own dose of defiance. "Really? Well, get in line, because you won't be the only one itching to send me to meet Ozayriz."