A sudden ripple of light tore through the air above the clearing, and a glowing blue portal shimmered open. The wind rushed outward in a small burst as a tall figure stepped through, his black robe flowing like rippling ink under the midday sun.
Professor Dexter Quilt emerged, his boots touching the grass softly as the portal closed behind him. He carried an elegant silver-tipped staff that pulsed faintly with mana, and the sunlight caught the sharp edges of his spectacles. His expression was stern yet controlled... a man in his thirties, young enough to move swiftly, yet seasoned enough to command respect.
He looked around the clearing, scanning the faces of the silent students and the massive golem standing still like a silent guardian. His brows furrowed. "I sensed a massive surge of distress mana..." His tone was edged with urgency. "Who triggered it?"
