Gian's body had completely transformed into a hideous monster. Amarok's eyes flickered. He resembled the very first monster they encountered at Freud that day.

"I finally understand Folk's actions," he murmured, recalling how Folk had prevented them from harming monsters. This revelation made sense.

Amarok felt the urge to vomit, thinking about all the monsters they had encountered on their way to this exit. So, they were former humans just like Gian. Would he end up like this too? His heart trembled.

Neo touched Amarok's shoulder. "I understand it's not easy, but we have to move on," he said. Despite his lingering anger at Amarok, he still empathized, being just seventeen, shaken by witnessing this, especially since he too was cursed.

The trio gave a last stare at the foggy forest before leaving. Once outside, the sun caressed their skin. Amarok smiled bitterly, casting a timid gaze at the sun, before the black-winged eagle flapped its wings, bolting into the sky. Their destination: Alden City.

...

Within the forest, on a huge root, stood a series of figures. The leader perched by the side, staring at the departing eagle. Swain stood next to him, while Naseric leaned on the roots.

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the water underneath – the water, a mixture of light green and white. The figure possessed a mesmerizing allure, the kind to captivate many. Short black hair and sharp eyes defined her.

In a flash, she jumped to their height. "Done as you wanted," she said, taking out a whistle. Upon close inspection, one would immediately recognize its origin.

"Good job, Lian. We are getting closer," the leader said with a satisfied smile. "It's always nice to get compliments from you," she replied with a soft smile.

"You finally admit I do look great?" she asked with a mischievous smile. "Get out of here and get dressed," he said, not taking his eyes off the whistle.

"So boring," she pouted. "Swain, how do I look?" she turned to the burly man, who simply glared. Before she could turn to Naseric, he took on his hood, hiding his face. "You guys are so... do you have any idea how many will kneel just to be able to witness this sight?" she said with an exasperated look.

"What's the plan now, Venifer?" Naseric turned to the leader. "I don't see the need for doing all this; we could directly get there and get who we want," Swain said, a little annoyed. "It's taking too much time," he said aloud.

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"We need to rescue someone. But if we go with our full strength, we might be able to get what we want, but not all will leave unscathed," Venifer said, holding the whistle, then paused. "Every single one of you is crucial. I want all of us to witness the rise of a new dawn," he said as he stood, taking on his hood.

Staring at Venifer's departing back, they all had different feelings.

...

A few days later, they finally arrived. From above, Amarok could see the grandeur of the city. It was built on a flat circular surface in the middle of water, with a huge bridge connecting the mainland and the city. The view from above was breathtaking, with tall buildings and a central building gleaming with a beautiful emerald blue luster.

They were forced to land on the bridge before entering. The guards were friendly and easily let them in.

As they went through the gates, their surroundings instantly shifted. The noise of people moving up and down immediately grew, with special beasts flying around. Amarok couldn't help but gasp. A running sound, although faint, could be heard underneath, and the entrance, slightly elevated, led further into the streets.

The path was not as rugged as in Wand Leaf and even felt soft on his feet. It was very lively, he thought. The trio didn't attract much attention; it was normal these days, as many people would be entering Alden.

"Hey, my friends. Greetings, I am Joan. Are you new in Alden?" a teenager suddenly stepped in. He wore a plain shirt and trousers but had a waist pocket and a bright smile.

"Yeah, we just arrived," Amarok replied. "Good, good. Are you looking for a place to rest? There are a few places in Alden, but I can help you find the best suitable for your budget," he said.

"No need, Joan. Find someone else," Mist suddenly said, taking the lead. Amarok stared apologetically at Joan, who observed the retreating trio in deep thought. Suddenly, his eyes lit up.

"Are you all going to Alden Academy?" he rushed towards them. "Yes, now leave," she said, pressing even faster. "Why are you in such a bad mood? I just wanted to inform you Arcana Elder Calder has gotten into some troubles," he said hastily.

Mist's body came to a sudden halt. "What happened?" Amarok and Neo turned serious; did something happen to Calder?

"After Arcana Elder Calder came back from his trip, he was ordered by the city Lord not to step out anymore. But noticing you didn't return after a month, he went out to look for you; when he returned, he was arrested," Joan said, catching his breath.

"It's because of the black-winged eagle," Neo instantly figured out. It was all thanks to the black-winged eagle that they could arrive in Alden so fast.

"Master," Mist's face darkened as she turned in a rush. "See you, Joan," Amarok waved as he tried to catch up with Mist.

"Don't worry, nothing bad can happen to him, right?" Amarok said. "I hope so," she added. Soon enough, they arrived at the center of the city.

The magnificent gates of Alden Academy stood before them. They were open, but no one dared to make a commotion or disturb its peace.

When Mist entered the building, a rune bloomed on her palm. "Mist Junior, Rune Warrior Initiate," a voice sounded out of the blue. Then her body moved forward. A translucent barrier morphed, letting her in.