Chapter 15: Threads of Mastery
The morning sun broke over the eastern hills, casting golden light across Greystone's battered yet resolute walls. Inside the keep, Lucas sat at his study desk surrounded by a small mountain of scrolls, tomes, and ancient bindings. Dust motes danced in the air as he leafed through yet another yellowed page, Zephyra perched on the windowsill, and Umbra curled at the foot of the table.
Elira stood near the bookcase, scanning titles with a finger trailing along spines. Kaela leaned against the wall, arms crossed, her eyes flickering with both amusement and curiosity.
"You really think you can find a way to counter the Tide's summoning suppression?" Kaela asked, one eyebrow raised.
Lucas didn't look up. "We don't have a choice. If their presence nullifies beast summons, then we're crippled before the battle even begins."
Elira turned. "You said your skill—Identify—was acting strange around relics. Maybe it can help with deciphering old techniques too?"
Lucas paused, then slowly nodded. He focused on a nearby scroll, the system chimed in his mind.
DING! [Skill Usage Detected: Identify]
[Subject: Arcane Scroll of Flame Whip]
[Result: Usable Skill - Flame Whip (Tier 1)]
[Would you like to learn this skill? Y/N]
Lucas blinked. "Wait... I can learn this?"