Chapter 58: Solara’s Dark Side
The duel between me and Arden had ended, and the tense rivalry between the students of Braveheart Knight Academy and Solara Magic Academy seemed to ease, at least for the moment. The sharp gazes from the magic students softened, but it was clear the tension wasn’t gone entirely—it had merely shifted into a more subdued rivalry.
With classes resuming today, there wasn’t much time to dwell on the duel. However, Amelia approached me with a serious look. "I felt Dark Magic outside the arena," she said, her voice low enough that only I could hear. "It felt like it belonged to the Shadows."
My heart sank. If her intuition was correct, it confirmed my suspicion: Arsene had intentionally sent us here to uncover the culprits behind the Shadows’ movements and the recent spate of student abductions.
"I think the Shadows are targeting not only Braveheart Knight Academy students but also those from Solara Magic Academy," I replied. Amelia nodded grimly. We agreed to conduct night patrols again, hoping to catch the Shadows in the act.
...
After class ended, we still had time before the evening patrol. I suggested to my team that we explore the Solara Magic Academy grounds. Lyra, Freya, Amelia, and Marius seemed eager, while Luna looked indifferent, and Kael sighed in exasperation. Nevertheless, I insisted. There was information to be gleaned, and the more we knew about Solara, the better prepared we’d be.
Sanders and Windy, who had grown quite attached to us, decided to tag along.
"We want to learn more about grimoires," I said, broaching the subject that had piqued my curiosity. Sanders and Windy suggested the academy library, so we headed there together.
The Solara Magic Academy’s library was massive, bustling with activity even late into the evening. Students and professors alike were engrossed in their studies. It was a far cry from the more casual atmosphere back at Braveheart.
In the library, I spotted Milly and Aisha.
"Not like you to spend so much time in a library, Milly," I teased. "Did you suddenly develop an interest in magic? I thought you were all about swordsmanship."