Headmaster Constance's frown lingered, but instead of punishment, her words took a surprising turn.
"Vanessa… the Academy does not intend to condemn you. For now, what we want are the notes and fragments you discovered. All records of Void Arts must be collected and studied. If they are genuine, they may form the foundation of something new, perhaps even the thirteenth Arcane Path taught here."
She said with a smile…
Vanessa's eyes widened. "The… thirteenth Path?"
Constance nodded. "Yes. The Void Arts have always been forbidden, but knowledge cannot remain buried forever. If we can understand them, organize them, and teach them responsibly, they may become part of the Academy's curriculum. You will not be treated as a criminal, Vanessa. Instead, you should be rewarded."
Relief washed over Vanessa, her trembling hands finally steady.
She bowed her head gratefully. "Thank you, Headmaster. I will give you everything I found."
