Half an hour had passed, and finally, Anos, like a mountain crumbling under its own weight, felt lighter. His tears poured relentlessly onto Sophia's small but steady shoulders—shoulders that, though delicate, bore the full weight of the grief buried deep inside a boy burning from within. Sophia said nothing. She simply held him, sitting quietly. Anos's sobs echoed through the still forest like a heavy rhythm. The scent of firewood smoke hung in the air, and the flickering light of the flames cast dancing shadows across Anos's tear-soaked face.
His eyes were still wet, but his breathing had slowed. At last, he lifted his head from Sophia's shoulder, pulled away slightly, and wiped his tears with his sleeve. A faint, hesitant smile touched his lips—a smile filled with shame, yet brimming with gratitude.
With a hoarse voice, he said,
"Thank you... really. I don't know what I would've done without you guys."
Warm smiles spread across the others' faces. No one said a word. They all knew that some things are meant to be heard in silence.
But Julius, never one to let silence linger too long, burst in with his usual energy:
"Alright, alright! It's tea time, people! Bring your mugs—just don't burn yourselves!"
Everyone laughed. Their laughter mingled with the crackling of the fire. In that moment, they weren't just companions—they were a family, gathered around the flames in a forest whose silence had been broken by honesty.
A few minutes later, Arthur buried some potatoes in the hot ashes, covered them with dirt, and laid a few sticks over them to cook. Smoke curled up from between the wood, and the smell of roasted potatoes began to drift through the air.
They sat and exchanged funny memories. Julius said,
"Remember the first day at the academy? What Professor Kyle was wearing? That ridiculous purple cloak?"
A burst of laughter erupted from the group. The night had turned chilly, but their hearts were warmer than ever. After dinner, Anos and Julius retired early to the tent. Sophia and Arthur, however, stayed by the fire a while longer. The chirping of crickets filled the calm forest night, and a gentle breeze stirred through the leaves.
Sophia spoke softly:
"It's a relief that Anos trusted us... Now we can really help him."
Arthur, slowly poking the fire with a stick to keep it burning, replied,
"Yeah. We've all had our hardships... but I think Anos is the most broken of us all."
He paused. The firelight danced in his eyes, revealing a deep sadness in his expression.
"To kill your own mother with your own hands, to have your father blame you, and to lose everything you had... That's not just pain. That's annihilation."
Sophia turned her gaze to the tent where Anos now slept. His face was calm and childlike, like a newborn who had finally found peace after years of nightmares.
"You're right... We have to protect him. We can't let him get hurt any more than he already has."
Arthur sighed.
"I don't know if we can stop the pain that's coming... but we can stay beside him. That alone matters. When you're not alone, you can fight through anything."
Sophia nodded in agreement.
"Together... we'll get through it all."
For a few minutes, silence settled between them. Only the crackling of burning wood filled the air.
Then Arthur spoke quietly,
"That night... the night I took you back to the dorms... when those students had been crucified around the academy... did you talk to anyone? I passed out and woke up in the infirmary. I don't remember anything after that, except... the dead faces of those students."
Sophia took a long breath before answering.
"Yeah... I spoke with Professor Charles. But he didn't tell me much. Just that outside the academy, there were 500 other cases reported across the capital that night. The whole city was in shock. The king immediately ordered a full security lockdown."
Arthur's eyes widened.
"Five hundred more?!"
Sophia lowered her gaze.
"Yeah... It seems like a much larger group is behind all this. No one knows what they want exactly, but it's likely they're trying to destroy the kingdom."
Arthur scratched his head.
"That's... honestly terrifying. Why would so many people be slaughtered? For what?"
Sophia's voice turned low and cold.
"Professor Charles said no one knows for sure yet... but maybe, just maybe, their goal goes beyond power. Maybe they're not just after this kingdom's people... maybe they're out to wipe out humanity itself."
Arthur sat silently, gazing into the fire. The flames still danced, but he felt the surrounding darkness deepen.
He looked up at the night sky. Stars shimmered amidst the darkness, and the gentle rustling of the tent's fabric echoed the soft whisper of the wind. Amidst the silence, the faint crackling of the last burning logs could still be heard.
In a quiet voice, perhaps more to reassure himself, Arthur said, "I should talk to one of the professors tomorrow... maybe they know something we don't."
Sophia nodded gently. The last flickers of the fire cast shifting shadows across her face.
"Yes, we should get some sleep... we have an early start tomorrow."
The two stood and quietly made their way to the tent. The soft crunch of leaves beneath their feet didn't disturb the night's tranquility; it was part of it. Inside the tent, the warmth of their friends' bodies provided a sense of security. All four lay down together. The gentle breathing of Anous and Julius indicated they were in a deep sleep.
But Arthur's mind remained restless. Lying on the hard ground, he stared at the tent's ceiling, which swayed with each breeze. His thoughts churned like a piece of driftwood in a turbulent sea: people crucifying others without mercy—who were they? What were their intentions? What could drive someone so far from humanity?
Arthur sighed and closed his eyes. Yet, those dark images still danced behind his eyelids. Nonetheless, exhaustion gradually weighed down his eyelids. The sound of the wind and the warmth of his friends' presence, like a wordless lullaby, gently lulled him into sleep.
A soft, gentle voice echoed in his dream.
"Arthur... wake up..."
Arthur hovered between sleep and wakefulness. The voice repeated, clearer this time:
"Arthur, it's time... wake up...
With heavy eyelids, he slowly opened his eyes. A soft light filtered through the tent's fabric, illuminating the interior. Julius's smiling face hovered above him, exuding his usual positive energy.
"Finally awake? Come on, breakfast is ready! If you're late, it'll get cold."
Arthur gave a sleepy smile and murmured, "Good morning to you too, Julius... I'll be there soon."
He struggled out of his sleeping bag and stood up. His body still felt heavy and a bit tired, but the fresh morning air and the aroma of hot bread and tea gradually revitalized him.
Stepping out of the tent, the warm sunlight hit his eyes. He shaded his forehead with one hand to block the direct light. The morning air was cool, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of dew and earth through the trees.
His gaze turned toward the morning fire; his friends sat around it. Julius, Sophia, and Anous were all enjoying breakfast, their laughter audible from afar. Steam rose from their cups, and fresh hot bread lay on a simple cloth.
Arthur, with a faint smile, walked toward them, feeling that today would be significant.
He quietly stepped away from his friends and headed toward a nearby spring near their camp. The sun had begun to rise over the mountains, casting a warm golden hue on the treetops. Upon reaching the spring, he bent down and plunged his hands into the water. The cold, clear water pleasantly shocked his sleepy body. He scooped water and splashed it on his face several times. The droplets felt like a new life on his skin, bringing a sense of freshness and awakening.
After washing his face, he stood by the spring and looked around. The scenery before him was so beautiful it felt like paradise on earth. A vast meadow filled with colorful flowers swayed in the morning breeze; clear springs flowed gently through the greenery, and the songs of birds from the trees created a flawless, heavenly ambiance. Arthur smiled, and for a moment, all worries and concerns vanished from his mind—a brief but pure moment of peace.
With light steps, he returned to his friends. The three sat around a white cloth, the soft sunlight casting gentle shadows on their hair.
Sophia and Anous smiled simultaneously upon seeing him and warmly said, "Good morning, Arthur."
Arthur smiled back and replied, "Good morning to you too."
He sat on the cloth and looked at their simple yet heartfelt breakfast. Steam rose from the tea cups, and hot bread, homemade strawberry jam, and local cheese were beautifully arranged. The aroma of fresh bread and tea created a delightful atmosphere.
Surprised by the hot bread, Arthur asked, "Wait... where did this hot bread come from? We didn't have the tools to bake it."
Sophia gave a warm smile and gently said, "The village headman whose cart we helped out of the ditch yesterday showed up this morning. He brought these for us. He was very grateful and said if we need anything, just let him know."
Julius, with his mouth full, said in a funny accent, "He's a really kind man..."
At that moment, Anous, with a serious yet kind expression, gently tapped Julius on the head and said, "Don't talk with your mouth full!"
Julius, slightly startled, mockingly frowned and said, "Hey! You're asking for trouble!"
Everyone burst into hearty laughter, even Julius, who couldn't control his laughter.
Arthur smiled, took a bite of the bread, and said, "Well, let's eat our breakfast before it gets cold. These moments are truly precious..."
And together, amidst the tranquil nature, in the company of genuine friendships and irreplaceable moments, they began a simple yet warm breakfast.
After enjoying a warm and delightful breakfast by the fire, filled with heartfelt laughter, the four friends calmly and harmoniously began packing up their small campsite. Sophia, still smiling, took the breakfast dishes and headed to the spring. The sunlight shimmered on the clear water, and the reflection of the trees in the gentle ripples resembled a living painting. She carefully washed the dishes, savoring the cool morning breeze.
Meanwhile, Julius and Anous were busy folding blankets and placing items into backpacks. Anous meticulously checked each item, while Julius, as usual, joked during the task, though this time he was a bit more cautious under Anous's serious gaze. Arthur, who was taking down the tent, occasionally glanced at the sky. White clouds drifted slowly across the blue expanse, and birds sang joyfully in the distance.
Once everything was ready, the four of them slung their backpacks over their shoulders and set off on their journey back to the capital. Along the way, they encountered the kind village headman again. The elderly man bid them farewell with a fatherly smile and wished them well. Arthur and Julius respectfully bowed, and Sophia waved her hand in goodbye.
The return path led through lush and picturesque nature. Ancient trees lined both sides of the road, their green leaves dancing in the wind. Wildflowers with vibrant colors adorned the grass, pleasing the eye. The gentle flow of a distant river blended with the birds' songs, creating a soothing melody of life and tranquility. These scenes, after days filled with stress and worries, were exactly what their souls needed—a moment of peaceful exhalation, a brief escape from past wounds.
However, as they approached the capital, signs of civilization began to replace nature. The roads became uneven and occasionally dangerous, and Arthur, with a vigilant eye, watched his surroundings, concerned about potential bandit attacks. Roads leading to the capital were often targeted by thieves and raiders, especially the less-traveled ones. Fortunately, they had chosen to take busier routes, where the presence of more travelers reduced the likelihood of an attack.
After hours of walking, the towering walls of the capital finally came into view in the distance. Watchtowers stood atop the ramparts like silent sentinels. The main gate was heavily guarded by gatekeepers and fully armed soldiers. Flags bearing the royal crest fluttered in the wind atop the towers.
A long line of people had formed before the gate. Arthur glanced at the crowd: peasants with livestock for sale, village women with baskets full of herbs and forest fruits, merchants in gaudy clothes, and even traders dragging chains of slaves behind them. The air was thick with voices, shouting, and the clanging of cart bells. The scent of dust mingled with the smells of animals and spices. It was a scene full of life, yet marred by injustice and social division.
The children waited in line for nearly an hour. The heat of the day had grown intense, the sun beating down from directly overhead. At last, after identity checks and security questions, they were granted entry. The gate opened with a low creak, and they stepped into the capital.
The capital was as crowded as ever. Life pulsed through the streets—vendors shouting at every corner, children playing in alleys, and people busy with their daily routines. But something in the atmosphere had changed... More soldiers than usual patrolled the streets. Checkpoints had been set up in certain alleys, and a silent unease lingered on people's faces. The fear and anxiety from the recent string of murders still hung in the city air like a ghost.
After about an hour navigating the noisy streets and alleys, the grand structure of the Magic Academy finally came into view. Towering walls, spired towers with sharp windows, and a massive iron gate engraved with the Academy's crest stood before them.
Upon entering the academy grounds, the group split up. Sophia, after a brief farewell, headed toward the girls' dormitory, while Julius, Anos, and Arthur made their way to the boys' dorm. But unlike before, the academy no longer held its usual excitement and energy.
A heavy silence loomed. There were far fewer students outside than usual, and those who were present stood in small groups, whispering in hushed tones with anxious expressions. It was clear they were all afraid—of something not yet fully revealed, but whose shadow had already fallen across them.
Arthur's sharp eyes immediately picked up on the changes. A feeling within told him he had to understand what was happening. He stepped closer to two students who were speaking quickly—one, a boy with black hair and blue eyes; the other, a girl with blonde hair and green eyes.
Arthur asked calmly, his voice steady yet serious:
— "Did something happen? Why is everyone like this?"
The boy looked up, startled, his face pale and eyes wide, like someone still struggling to comprehend a terrible event.
— "You haven't heard? Last night… one of the students was murdered."
Julius and Anos, having caught the conversation, stepped forward with tense expressions. Arthur moved a bit closer.
— "What? Who was killed? Do you know who it was? What class?"
The boy glanced around nervously, as if afraid someone might overhear. Then, in a trembling voice, he said:
— "Her name was Elizabeth... Elizabeth Woodville. From the Golden Owl class."
Julius and Anos exchanged stunned looks. A heavy silence fell over them. They knew Elizabeth—arrogant, sharp-tongued, and often cruel. Under his breath, Julius muttered:
— "Elizabeth? You mean... she's really dead?"
Anos exhaled slowly. Though he had little fondness for her, the murder of a classmate, especially so soon after the others, unnerved them all.
But Arthur's reaction was different.
He wasn't shocked. Nor was he saddened. His eyes remained fixed on the ground, as though his mind was busy piecing together a puzzle. Elizabeth's death meant little to him—not out of coldness, but because he believed those who sow cruelty would eventually reap its consequences. He had often witnessed her bullying weaker students, reducing them to tears. He felt no pity.
What truly unsettled Arthur was something else.
The time between murders was getting shorter. One body per week. Now Elizabeth. Was the academy turning into a killing ground? Why was no one doing anything? And more importantly, why was everything shrouded in silence and mystery?
His thoughts were interrupted by Anos's voice:
— "Where was the body found?"
The boy once again glanced around nervously and answered quietly:
— "They say it was in the greenhouse behind the main building. It's been sealed off now. They say… the killer removed all her internal organs—her intestines, her heart—and stuffed her body with poisonous flowers."
Silence fell again.
Arthur studied the boy's face closely. There was doubt in his expression, but not the kind that comes from lying—more the confusion of someone overwhelmed by too many questions. At last, Arthur asked calmly:
— "How do you know all this?"
The boy, visibly paler than before, glanced around briefly and then met Arthur's eyes. His voice shook, but his words were clear:
— "I... I was one of the first to see the body. I stayed late in the greenhouse last night. I was researching poisonous plants. Then I heard a scream... a scream that still echoes in my ears. When I ran toward it, I saw something I never thought I'd see in my life."
Arthur's eyebrows arched. Something about the story gnawed at him. With a thoughtful yet skeptical tone, he said:
— "Strange... A body so meticulously mutilated—organs removed and replaced with toxic flowers—without anyone seeing or hearing the killer? That's... very clean. Unusual."
The boy grew agitated at once, his voice rising in protest:
— "Hey! I know what you're thinking! But I didn't kill her! I've told the investigators that a hundred times since last night. I wasn't even near her!"
Without another word, Arthur closed his eyes. Using his innate skill—*The Eye of Truth*—he searched the boy's thoughts. The feeling that washed over him was clear and undeniable: the boy was telling the truth. There was no hint of deceit or doubt. Pure honesty.
Arthur took a calm breath, lowered his head slightly, and said:
— "I'm sorry. Elizabeth was our classmate. Hearing about her death... especially like this... it threw me off. If I said anything harsh, I apologize."
The boy, now somewhat calmer, shrugged slightly:
— "It's fine. I get it... If she was your classmate, you must be shocked."
Arthur raised his head, now more serious than before:
— "Can you tell me more? About the crime scene. Anything you remember."
The boy hesitated, uncertain. But then he said:
— "What do you want to know? I'll help however I can."
Arthur's voice was calm:
— "First of all, what time was it exactly? And where exactly in the greenhouse was the body found?"
The boy paused, thinking hard, trying to recall the details. Then he said:
— "It was around midnight, maybe 12:30. According to the rules, no one's allowed in the greenhouse after 9 PM, but I had special permission. I was testing some medicinal plants... My friend and I were both there."
Arthur nodded slowly, his tone more intent now:
— "Go on."
The boy took a deep breath, as if recalling the scene still took effort.
— "I was in the medicinal plants section. A bit far from the ornamental flower beds. I heard my friend scream and rushed over. When I got there... what I saw\..."
He paused. His throat was dry.
— "The body was lying in the middle of the flower bed. Not random—deliberate, precise. All the internal organs—heart, lungs, intestines—were removed with surgical precision. Not like a murder... more like an operation. And the cavity had been filled with toxic flowers: *Hydrangea*, *Nigella sativa*, *Azalea*... These are known for their poisonous properties—used in poisons or even dark magic."
Arthur's eyes narrowed. This level of detail was far beyond a simple killing.
The boy continued:
— "Worst of all, the heart was placed on her chest, held in her own hands. Like some grotesque artwork. It wasn't just murder. It was a message. A signature."
Silence fell once more.
And in that moment, Arthur understood—they weren't dealing with an ordinary killer. This was someone precise, knowledgeable, and hiding a deeper purpose. Worse yet, they were facing a psychopath...