Embedding magic into one's core was no simple task. It required the caster to overwhelm the natural mana flowing within their own body, condense it to a single, volatile point, and then use it to disturb the flow of mana in another.
To perform such an advanced feat, a mage needed more than just talent. They needed raw power, control, and above all, proximity to their target. And Kayzel was already close.
The other Central Academy students had done their part. They cast spells designed not to injure, but to suppress, barriers, bindings, illusions, all to keep Moze and Piba locked in place and helpless while Kayzel went to work.
Maybe, for a brief second, the Central students felt a pang of guilt. Perhaps they even questioned the brutality of what they were doing.
But that feeling didn't last long.
They had been raised in a world where strength dictated everything. The strong made the rules. And the strong didn't apologize.
